Prince Harry's latest move in his ongoing feud with the British Royal Family has stirred considerable discussion, as the paperback version of his memoir, Spare, is set for release on October 22. This timing coincides with significant royal events, including King Charles and Queen Camilla's tour of Australia and Samoa. The decision to release the paperback without new content has sparked debate about its implications for the Royal Family and Harry's relationship with them.
The paperback edition of Spare will feature no additional chapters or revelations, a departure from the norm for such releases, which typically include new content to attract readers. Cameron Walker, Royal Correspondent for GB News, pointed out on The Royal Record podcast, "The release date of October 22, right in the middle of the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, seems to be a red flag." Walker's comments highlight the potential for the paperback's timing to overshadow the royal tour, although he acknowledges that the lack of new material may mitigate this impact.
According to the Daily Mail, the Royal Family may view the decision to omit new content as a relief. A friend of Harry's noted, "The paperback was a part of the book deal he signed, but he is not contractually obliged to promote this edition." The friend also mentioned that the delay in releasing the paperback was due to the continued success of the hardback edition, which remained popular.
The original release of Spare in January 2023 had made headlines with its explosive claims about the Royal Family, including allegations of familial strife and personal grievances. Harry's accusations about Prince William's behavior and King Charles's handling of Meghan Markle had already strained relationships within the monarchy. With the new paperback edition offering no fresh content, some observers are questioning whether Harry's strategy is aimed at soothing tensions or simply a commercial decision.
The timing of the paperback's release, during a significant royal tour, has led to speculation about its impact on the Royal Family's public image. Svar Nanan-Sen, Digital Royal Editor, suggested that the lack of new material might serve as an "olive branch" to mitigate potential fallout. "With no new information, it shouldn't take away from the headlines as it could have if more bombshells were included," Nanan-Sen commented on the podcast.
Harry's relationship with his family has reportedly deteriorated further since the release of Spare. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have had strained interactions with the Royal Family, including a reported estrangement from Prince William and King Charles. The brothers last spoke at Queen Elizabeth II's funeral in September 2022, and their relationship remains frosty. Friends of William have indicated that he may not reconcile with Harry anytime soon, with one source saying, "The focus has very much been on his wife, his children, and his father."
Harry's interactions with King Charles have also been fraught. Although the King offered Harry accommodation at Buckingham Palace during a recent visit, Harry opted for a hotel instead. This decision has fueled speculation about the state of their relationship. A source told The Times, "It was far from clear what the duke's plans were, and there was no space in the King's diary."
The paperback release of Spare may not add new fuel to the feud, but its strategic timing and lack of new content reflect ongoing tensions. As Harry continues to navigate his complex relationship with the Royal Family, the release of this edition of Spare provides a glimpse into his approach to managing public and familial perceptions.
With the paperback set to hit shelves in both the U.S. and the U.K. in late October, it remains to be seen how it will influence public discourse and the Royal Family's reception of Harry's past grievances.
