Guarding Diana: Protecting the Princess Around the World

by Inspector Ken Wharfe

Inspector Ken Wharfe, the first royalty protection officer to publish a memoir, was a crucial figure in the life of Diana, Princess of Wales, for nearly seven years. He became a close friend and trusted confidant. His first-hand contradicts many of the so-called "facts" about Diana and provides affectionate, if not always uncritical, insight. He played an important role during Diana's most trying times, and in her sons' formative years, and he shows himself to be an exceptionally perceptive observer. This account presents the most intimate portrait of Diana to date, as well as a fitting tribute to one of the outstanding figures of our age.

Genres: Biography, Royalty, Biography Memoir

288 pages, Paperback

Published November 1, 2018

Reviews

[Bookread2day · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every once in while I like to read a true story. I wanted to read Guarding Diana by Inspector Ken Wharfe, because I just adored princess Diana and when she sadly died I took my daughter to London to lay down flowers, with a newspaper that interviewed us, took photos of us and published them in their paper, my only regret was it was for the sadness time of my life. I used to read the papers, loving all the pictures of princess Diana that were taken of her as she traveled the world, visiting places that meant something special to Diana. What I particularly liked about Inspector Ken Wharfes story is that it took us behind the scenes to explain what it was like working for princess Diana, being her body Guard at home and abroad. Ken did share some funny moments with the late princess Diana. I urge you all to read Guarding Diana, protecting the princess around the world, there will be a lots of information that only Inspector Ken Whatfe could tell you.

[Hâf · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a girl born in the 90s I was completely unaware of the Princess of Wales and her trials and tribulations as a member of the Royal family. I only became familiar with Diana's story much later in my life once the media had settled and there was hardly any mention of her. 
I found this book to be incredibly insightful into the busy life of Diana, when she was married as well as separated from Prince Charles. There were many emotions intermingled throughout the book, sympathy for a young woman in a horrendous marital situation, annoyance at her mood swings, pity for the Princess who wanted to be normal, adoration for the lady that hugged a child with HIV. 
It's Diana's story told from a very personal viewpoint, her protection officer was with her through thick and thin and it seemed was always attempting to make her life as smooth as possible. There were contradictions in the novel in regard to the authors feelings towards Diana and Charles and the disdain towards Diana's mood swings was obvious. However I enjoyed learning some more about the adored princess.

[Victoria Frow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good. I enjoyed reading about her travels around the world and how he managed the Princess on these trips. Also liked how it showed a different side to her as this shows that she could be really stubborn at times which shows that she was just human like the rest of us. Recommend. Thank you Reader's First for the free copy.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book.

[Lyn Cartner · Rating 4 out of 5]

. Well written and fair to all parties concerned. The life of a royal protection officer presented in an interesting and balanced way.

[Ursula · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book doesn't tell all of Princess Diana's story. Anyone who doesn't already know a lot about her life may be rather baffled by the snippets and insider glimpses wthout the background of following it in news reports at the time. So young people would be better reading a general biography first.

But for those of us who were aware of the story unfolding at the time then we can be grateful Ken Wharfe doesn't inflict every detail upon us. He concentrates upon the six years he spent guarding the two young princes and the Princess herself. As her Personal Protection Officer, Ken Wharfe was uniquely close to all three of them and watched the Princes grow up whilst their parents' marriage collapsed. And the Princess too matured and grew into her self-determined role in the Royal Family. When he explains what was going on in the Princess's life at any particular moment it is to shed light upon her moods, decisions and actions.

This is the second of the PPO's memoirs and in this volume he focuses upon travelling with the Princess. This brought many security and logistical challenges to cope with as well as exotic locations and diverse people. Altogether, an interesting read.

[Katja · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the last of three books that I picked on the same day simply because they had been cleverly placed on the shelves of the library I was in. Diana's life (and death) are things that everyone who lived during that era has recollections about. For this reason, I think it's impossible to read a book about her without having some sort of idea of what's to come. You expect exotic locations, glamorous names and expensive clothes. Language-wise, this book did justice to my expectations. However, I'm not sure what message the author tried to convey. That Diana was a real person, behind a public, carefully created image? He describes her almost like a lover, protecting her image even in death. The clumsy attempts to make her appear more human (like repeatedly claiming that she suffered from mood swings.... who doesn't...) were more irritating than informative. This year is the perfect year to read this book since there has been no traveling but otherwise, I have a hard time of finding reasons to recommend this book, even to serious Diana fans.

[Sue · Rating 2 out of 5]

I think his first book is better. But it wasn't available at the library so I read this one.

It's a rather thin book filled with descriptions of places he visited with Diana, rather than compelling stories of their travels. There are quite a few anecdotes, but nothing particularly memorable. Basically, either she has terrible problems evading the paparazzi during family holidays, or she attends foreign events as a dignitary and charms the hosts whilst rowing with Charles. That's the long and short of most of the book.

Quite frankly, it's ridiculous how closely guarded the Royal Family is. Do William and Harry really need Protection Officers to swim in the sea with them? Or explore a sandy island with them? And, the Royal Family's incessant need for foreign holidays with Police Protection at the Taxpayers cost is sickening. They should be forced to holiday at secluded Balmoral or pay for the cost themselves! It seems their lives are filled with endless holidays. Very hard to have sympathy for rich people's problems.

[Clara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was touched in a humble and delightful way by this book. The style in which it was written allowed it to have a tone of authority, whilst remaining accessible and evoking. Wharfe deserves great credit for this; it is a balance that many writers fail to achieve. The tales of her journeys gave a beautiful insight into the self-doubt, paranoia, and aggravation that the partly uncontrollable situations that royals can be placed in, caused her. The misunderstandings between public, press and person that took place were explained well, and allowed the reader to understand without unfair judgement (on Diana, the Royals’ and the press’ part) being made. Lady Diana’s character was displayed and clarified, so as to pin-point her wonderful personality yet illustrate her pure tendency to be human in emotion. The balance between humour (particularly with stories of the two boys, William and Harry), hatred and longing were perfectly appraised. A stunning book.

[Readerready · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, it was a well wrote memoir from one of princess Dianas personal bodyguards, it is exactly what it says it is. This book tells about the authors time with the princess, bits ablut her snd her life, his worm, where it took him and some facts, ehich helpec to keep the book flowing and add a some more interest, there was also pictures which was a nice touch and gave the reader more insight. I would recommend this book to people interested in the royal family and/or the princess Diano, otherwise this book is probably not for you. All in all this was a well wrote memoir, an enjoyable read, and an insight into the life of one of the most famous and popular royals in modern history.

[Moniek Bloks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Diana, Princess of Wales was an icon during her life and now in her afterlife as well. Ken Wharfe was her Personal Protection Officer from 1988 until 1993 and he continued to work for the Royal family until 2002. 

Guarding Diana follows Diana on her many trips abroad, including her private holidays. Ken Wharfe tells how he dealt with the security issues but also how he dealt with Diana who was known to court the press as well. I enjoyed the insights into Diana's life and the challenges she faced on a daily basis, even when she wasn't "on duty." 

It is quite well-written and I enjoyed Ken's flowing writing style. However, if you're looking for an in-depth look at Diana, this isn't it. But don't let that put you off, it is a fun read. 

[Carolyn Walkden · Rating 5 out of 5]

The usual genre I read is fiction such as thrillers, crime or mystery, so I was surprised that Guarding Diana held my interest through to the last page. This is a collection of stories from the man who was responsible for the safety of the Princess and her children for many years. Although Diana was a complicated woman, and at times difficult to work with, there were many humorous moments which Ken Wharfe shares with us in his second book.

All in all, a well written account of their travels together and the lengths Ken needed to go to in order to accommodate Diana. I highly recommend it.

[Terri Stokes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting read to me, as I don't really read anything to do with the royals, but I received this book quite a while ago and has sat on my self since.
While I do know things about the Princess, it was interesting to see the sides of her which the public people didn't see and how it effected her life as well as the break down of her and Charles's marriage.

Written by one of the few who was close to the Princess, Ken, as her PPO had a great insight and relationship with Diana, even towards the end of their working relationship.

[Susann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written elegy to the "People's Princess." Wharfe had an eight year very close relationship with Diana as her personal bogyguard and gave his honest view of her, imperfections (few) and all. He saw the side others did not and often served as sensitive listener and advisor. He also many times had to handle the press pack though it was not his job. This book seems to be an extremely fair portrayal of some of the key events and journeys they experienced together as well as the many facets of her personality. The last chapter was especially moving.

[Liz Pardey · Rating 1 out of 5]

What to say? Diana the good, Diana the fun, Diana the heroine -- another retainer making money from her memory.
I don't know why books like this about royalty attract me but I love to read them, find biases, and mark up with my little pencil.
Not particularly memorable, nothing of historical interest, no big bombshells -- unless you are as insane as I am, don't bother.

[Randa Hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite Royal

Story told of a woman of many complexities, but she had been raised in a complicated life, with many personal hurts, but she seamed to recognize that hurting in others. She wanted to give them the comfort she didn’t receive as a child.

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had hoped that he would write a book because it was written from a view that we hadn't heard from anyone else, someone with a unique perspective. I did enjoy the book very much.

[Piper Winchester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed seeing a different side of Princess Diana on her travels.
Written by someone who knew her.
I can not get enough of this amazing woman

[Megan Beastfan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gives a fresh and different (and somewhat more human) perspective of princess diana. Good read if you’re interested about her and the royal family.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

#33 of 120 books pledged to read during 2023

[Saarah Niña · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written compassionately

Princess Diana, or her shortened name Di, touched millions of lives. Some directly, others from afar. She was an icon but someone who was so alike to us and yet, also better. I admired her most for her spirit. Her life wasn't the kind of perfect we see digitised by most celebrities today. As Ken Wharfe writes, Diana was a woman who 'had no airs and graces about her.' [Ch. Introduction, p.ix] She was the people's princess.

Inspector Ken Wharfe was her Personal Protection Officer working under Scotland Yard. For nearly eight years, he was with her for every tour, diplomatic mission, and adventure. He offers an 'honest portrayal', reasonable, balanced and explorative at all times [Introduction, p.xi].

This is their story: the story of their special friendship.

Diana worked tirelessly to champion the causes she was a patron of, to bring awareness of world-issues such as AIDS, the plight of refugees and the under-privileged, to the fore-front, her steely determination and beautiful compassion is clear in how many lives were touched by her impact. And when coupled by the fact she felt isolated and misunderstood beyond measure, one can't help but admire her tenacity. She was a remakably ordinary woman who did markedly extraordinary things. She was a private person [p.151], prone to doubt herself and stubborn as any of us. We learn she often longed for the perfect escape from the probing spotlight, and camera-flashes.

As so often happens, particulary with women in the media, she was reduced. Her achievements minimised after her death, 'her real sense of public duty distorted.'[Introduction, p.xiv]

It's fair to say most of us desire a scandal. At least, that's what the tabloids and paparazzi will have you believe. But Diana was a classy woman, her efforts came from the heart and she was guided by a will to help others and, to bring change.

As Wharfe beautifully pens, Diana 'certainly made the world sit up and take notice in the time she had on earth. [...She] was a magical person.'[p.253]

I recommend this book for we can all learn from Diana's achievements and struggles. Guarding Diana serves as a loving reminder of the woman, mother, advocate and Princess our nation, and the world, lost that tragic night. For a credible record, an acknowledgement that there are two sides to every story (if not more), Ken Wharfe and Robert Jobson's book makes for a delicately, thoughtful royalty memoir. Fascinating, but not indulging: they offer a record of what happened, Diana's anxieties and dreams. Respectful of the truth and delivering what they think is important, rather than what they think we want to read.

I received this book from the publisher for review consideration. All opinions are honest and completely my own.

[Gill Chedgey · Rating 3 out of 5]

I took this book on because I have a friend who claims to have a spiritual connection with Princess Diana and I intend to pass it on! A spurious reason for reading and reviewing a book? Maybe. But it was also an opportunity to delve again into the world of non fiction which may redeem my rather superficial intent!

Overall the book is a straightforward account of the security issues surrounding Diana and her overseas trips; both vacations and official engagements. It also examined the relationship between ‘protector’ and ‘protectee’. I had the feeling that Wharfe was being honest about Diana the person rather than Diana the icon. It was absorbing enough as a read but I can’t see that it covers any new ground. It is interesting to consider whether Diana still attracts a wealth of interest so long after her passing? Wharfe appears to offer an unbiased view of all the key ‘players’ from Diana herself to other members of the Royal Family including Prince Charles

Two things I did I garner from the book was the relentless and insensitive machinations of the press, paparazzi and media. The book does offer as balanced a view as it can. One intrusive photographer claimed ‘press freedom and public interest’ as justification for the relentless hounding of the Princess and her children. I was surprised at how frequently ‘deals’ were struck with the media - a photoshoot in return for the photographers' exodus.

I found the most interesting part of the book was the final chapter where Wharfe questions the public outpouring of grief and a potential hypocrisy?

‘Though it may seem harsh or cynical I felt that there was something spurious about the mass mourning that followed her death and attended her funeral. True, most people loved her, but they had not known her. They loved the media image; they loved the glamour, the humanity, the sympathetic tears but they had little idea of the real Diana. Truly they loved her because of what they had read or seen or heard about her. What they were mourning was an image moulded by the media and by the Princess herself from her years in the public eye.’

Wharfe goes on to question the public’s vilification of the press who had fuelled their desire for their image of Diana.

I found myself moved again by the final pages detailing the funeral and wondering how the world would be had Diana lived and continued her uplifting humanitarian work.

[Alison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyed reading but it very much duplicated the other Ken Wharf which I recently read.
Wouldn’t recommend if you’ve read closely guarded secret too similar.

[Angela L · Rating 3 out of 5]

I should probably state from the outset that I was not a great fan of Princess Di so approached this book expecting very little.
It's not a book that sets out to teach the reader anything new and isn't designed to be sensationalist. More a case of a relatively affectionate look back on some of the private moments of a princess 20 years since her death.
To be honest some of the material was a little flimsy and, in not repeating things already written about, it has the feel of a few minor incidents that have been padded out to create a book.
Having previously though Diana was a great manipulator of the press, this book does give an insight into why she would have behaved that way and the frustrations that come from being in a failing, public and extremely high profile marriage.
Diana fans will undoubtedly love it but I'm not entirely convinced that there is enough material here to warrant a book about a subject that has reached saturation point already.....

[Juliat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Diana, Princess of Wales had protection staff whenever she went anywhere. The writer, Ken Wharfe, a SAS trained officer with the Royal protection department in the Metropolitan Police, was her personal officer for six years.
This book relates stories of the foreign trips he accompanied her, organising ways to not only protect her physically from harm but also from the paparazzi all clamouring for pictures of her and the princes. It tells funny, sad and moving stories of a woman going through a bad marriage break up in public, trying not to be bullied by the establishment.
This is quite a well written book that keeps you reading just another chapter, each of which is based on a separate trip. Being given this book in return for an honest opinion, I didn’t expect to enjoy it - but I did. It is well worth reading even if it’s not your normal type of book.

[Maureen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Diana, Princess of Wales and her personal protection officer, Inspector Ken Wharfe.
Her code name of 'Purple five Two' and the names of Mr and Mrs Hargreaves for herself and Ken when they travelled to try to keep the paparazzi from finding them.

This is a book I have found a fascinating read and have recommended to my friends.

So much of her life is now exposed to the reader...
It is so hard for us ordinary people to even imagine what life is like for the very rich and famous but this book certainly gives us a marvellous insight.

So many happenings I had no idea about and the sad parts of Diana's life are explained in a way that helps us all understand what she must have gone through after her marriage.

Diana was so loved by so many people and the writer gives us an insight to her extraordinary life.

Its well worth reading.

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ken Wharfe was Princess Diana's personal protection officer for eight years. In this book he details the tours, the diplomatic missions and engagements he shared with Diana. It's obvious from the warmth that jumps out of this book that Ken respected Diana very much. The book is insightful, without being intrusive. Ken speaks of the Princess's moods, something which we, the public, only ever saw in the tabloids (and who can believe them?), and how they impacted on her decisions, the raising of her sons, and how she viewed the media and her wider circle.
The insights into the lives of the princes were interesting, and it shows, nowadays, how Diana truly impacted their lives by trying to give them as normal a life as possible when they were in her care.

[Aamina]

I haven't read any books on Diana so I don't have much to compare this to except I have seen some Documentaries. This was eyeopening and kind of sad at times. I especially loved her relationship with her personal protection officer (the author) it was written very nicely, easy to read and it seemed honest. This gives a different story as it is through the eyes of someone whose was to protect her. I found the last chapter hard to read and I kept tearing because the way it was written was so touching. The inspector doesn't sugar coat anything he mentions Diana as she was what she stood for and how she came across to the world and to the establishment. No doubt Diana lived a troubled life but this highlights that wherever she went she tried to have a good time and help others.

[Tammy Tudor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written beautifully and truthfully

Being a big fan of the royal family and especially of Diana I was apprehensive to read such a book as there has been so much already written I wondered if there could be a new perspective. However, I found, for a big Diana lovers, this book really does her justice.

Diana was loved by the whole nation but she was wasn't without struggles and in no way was she perfect. This book captures the human side of Diana there are times within the book that bring tears and laughs!

The writing is professionally done and the perspective is insightful and truthful. For anyone who is a fan of Diana this is a must read. While there other similar books out there this is the one that really stands out beyond compare.

[Rosanna]

Good