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Philip : the final portrait : Elizabeth, their marriage and their dynasty
This is the story of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh - the longest-serving consort to the longest-reigning sovereign in British history. It is an extraordinary story, told with unique insight and authority by an author who knew the prince for more than forty years.
Philip - elusive, complex, controversial, challenging, often humorous, sometimes irascible - is the man Elizabeth II once described as her 'constant strength and guide'. Who was he? What was he really like? What is the truth about those 'gaffes' and the rumours of affairs? This is the final portrait of an unexpected and often much-misunderstood figure. It is also the portrait of a remarkable marriage that endured for more than seventy years.
Philip and Elizabeth were both royal by birth, both great-great-grandchildren of Queen Victoria, but, in temperament and upbringing, they were two very different people. The Queen's childhood was loving and secure, the Duke's was turbulent; his grandfather assassinated, his father arrested, his family exiled, his parents separated when he was only ten. Elizabeth and Philip met as cousins in the 1930s. They married in 1947, aged twenty-one and twenty-six.
Philip: The Final Portrait tells the story of two contrasting lives, assesses the Duke of Edinburgh's character and achievement, and explores the nature of his relationships with his wife, his children and their families - and with the press and public and those at court who were suspicious of him in the early days. This is a powerful, revealing and, ultimately, moving account of a long life and a remarkable royal partnership.
Philip - elusive, complex, controversial, challenging, often humorous, sometimes irascible - is the man Elizabeth II once described as her 'constant strength and guide'. Who was he? What was he really like? What is the truth about those 'gaffes' and the rumours of affairs? This is the final portrait of an unexpected and often much-misunderstood figure. It is also the portrait of a remarkable marriage that endured for more than seventy years.
Philip and Elizabeth were both royal by birth, both great-great-grandchildren of Queen Victoria, but, in temperament and upbringing, they were two very different people. The Queen's childhood was loving and secure, the Duke's was turbulent; his grandfather assassinated, his father arrested, his family exiled, his parents separated when he was only ten. Elizabeth and Philip met as cousins in the 1930s. They married in 1947, aged twenty-one and twenty-six.
Philip: The Final Portrait tells the story of two contrasting lives, assesses the Duke of Edinburgh's character and achievement, and explores the nature of his relationships with his wife, his children and their families - and with the press and public and those at court who were suspicious of him in the early days. This is a powerful, revealing and, ultimately, moving account of a long life and a remarkable royal partnership.
528 pages, Hardcover
Published April 27, 2021
213 people are currently reading
620 people want to read
About the author
Gyles Brandreth
461 books399 followersFull name: Gyles Daubeney Brandreth.
A former Oxford Scholar, President of the Oxford Union and MP for the City of Chester, Gyles Brandreth’s career has ranged from being a Whip and Lord Commissioner of the Treasury in John Major’s government to starring in his own award-winning musical revue in London’s West End. A prolific broadcaster (in programmes ranging from Just a Minute to Have I Got News for You), an acclaimed interviewer (principally for the Sunday Telegraph), a novelist, children’s author and biographer, his best-selling diary, Breaking the Code, was described as ‘By far the best political diary of recent years, far more perceptive and revealing than Alan Clark’s’ (The Times) and ‘Searingly honest, wildly indiscreet, and incredibly funny’ (Daily Mail). He is the author of two acclaimed royal biographies: Philip Elizabeth: Portrait of a Marriage and Charles Camilla: Portrait of a Love Affair. In 2007/2008, John Murray in the UK and Simon & Schuster in the US began publishing The Oscar Wilde Murder Mysteries, his series of Victorian murder mysteries featuring Oscar Wilde as the detective.
As a performer, Gyles Brandreth has been seen most recently in ZIPP! ONE HUNDRED MUSICALS FOR LESS THAN THE PRICE OF ONE at the Duchess Theatre and on tour throughout the UK, and as Malvolio and the Sea Captain in TWELFTH NIGHT THE MUSICAL at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Gyles Brandreth is one of Britain’s busiest after-dinner speakers and award ceremony hosts. He has won awards himself, and been nominated for awards, as a public speaker, novelist, children’s writer, broadcaster (Sony), political diarist (Channel Four), journalist (British Press Awards), theatre producer (Olivier), and businessman (British Tourist Authority Come to Britain Trophy).
He is married to writer and publisher Michèle Brown, with whom he co-curated the exhibition of twentieth century children’s authors at the National Portrait Gallery and founded the award-winning Teddy Bear Museum now based at the Polka Theatre in Wimbledon. He is a trustee of the British Forces Foundation, and a former chairman and now vice-president of the National Playing Fields Association.
Gyles Brandreth’s forebears include George R. Sims (the highest-paid journalist of his day, who wrote the ballad Christmas Day in the Workhouse) and Jeremiah Brandreth (the last man in England to be beheaded for treason). His great-great-grandfather, Benjamin Brandreth, promoted ‘Brandreth’s Pills’ (a medicine that cured everything!) and was a pioneer of modern advertising and a New York state senator. Today, Gyles Brandreth has family living in New York, Maryland, South Carolina and California. He has been London correspondent for “Up to the Minute” on CBS News and his books published in the United States include the New York Times best-seller, The Joy of Lex and, most recently, Philip Elizabeth: Portrait of a Royal Marriage.
A former Oxford Scholar, President of the Oxford Union and MP for the City of Chester, Gyles Brandreth’s career has ranged from being a Whip and Lord Commissioner of the Treasury in John Major’s government to starring in his own award-winning musical revue in London’s West End. A prolific broadcaster (in programmes ranging from Just a Minute to Have I Got News for You), an acclaimed interviewer (principally for the Sunday Telegraph), a novelist, children’s author and biographer, his best-selling diary, Breaking the Code, was described as ‘By far the best political diary of recent years, far more perceptive and revealing than Alan Clark’s’ (The Times) and ‘Searingly honest, wildly indiscreet, and incredibly funny’ (Daily Mail). He is the author of two acclaimed royal biographies: Philip Elizabeth: Portrait of a Marriage and Charles Camilla: Portrait of a Love Affair. In 2007/2008, John Murray in the UK and Simon & Schuster in the US began publishing The Oscar Wilde Murder Mysteries, his series of Victorian murder mysteries featuring Oscar Wilde as the detective.
As a performer, Gyles Brandreth has been seen most recently in ZIPP! ONE HUNDRED MUSICALS FOR LESS THAN THE PRICE OF ONE at the Duchess Theatre and on tour throughout the UK, and as Malvolio and the Sea Captain in TWELFTH NIGHT THE MUSICAL at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Gyles Brandreth is one of Britain’s busiest after-dinner speakers and award ceremony hosts. He has won awards himself, and been nominated for awards, as a public speaker, novelist, children’s writer, broadcaster (Sony), political diarist (Channel Four), journalist (British Press Awards), theatre producer (Olivier), and businessman (British Tourist Authority Come to Britain Trophy).
He is married to writer and publisher Michèle Brown, with whom he co-curated the exhibition of twentieth century children’s authors at the National Portrait Gallery and founded the award-winning Teddy Bear Museum now based at the Polka Theatre in Wimbledon. He is a trustee of the British Forces Foundation, and a former chairman and now vice-president of the National Playing Fields Association.
Gyles Brandreth’s forebears include George R. Sims (the highest-paid journalist of his day, who wrote the ballad Christmas Day in the Workhouse) and Jeremiah Brandreth (the last man in England to be beheaded for treason). His great-great-grandfather, Benjamin Brandreth, promoted ‘Brandreth’s Pills’ (a medicine that cured everything!) and was a pioneer of modern advertising and a New York state senator. Today, Gyles Brandreth has family living in New York, Maryland, South Carolina and California. He has been London correspondent for “Up to the Minute” on CBS News and his books published in the United States include the New York Times best-seller, The Joy of Lex and, most recently, Philip Elizabeth: Portrait of a Royal Marriage.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
August 28, 2021
Four Stars
As a British monarchy buff of sorts, I jumped at the chance to read this biography of Prince Philip, especially in the wake of his recent death at the age of 99. This is a voluminous effort of over 500 pages, and took a long time to get through. I've read so many Windsor- related biographies over the years, but this one offered a particular focus on Philip. While you're reading about Philip, of course the writing expands to include his family so you're getting kernels of information about his wife Queen Elizabeth II, his children and their spouses, etc. The author was close to Philip so his account rings true. Indeed, Prince Philip proofread the majority of this book and corrected fine points where necessary. Apparently, Philip was big on writing personal letters on his typewriter, and so commented on anything he felt needed clarification. I found these moments quite interesting. Prince Philip was truly a very intelligent and introspective man, and I never realized just how much so until reading this book. He had a huge library at Buckingham Palace and was a voracious reader.
Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II were actually distant cousins who both descended from Queen Victoria. In fact, his mother Princess Alice of Battenberg was born in Windsor Castle. His childhood was very disrupted when the Greek royal family had to go into exile. His parents separated and he spent his later childhood essentially without a permanent home, either boarding at schools or staying with various royal family relatives. However, Philip brushed off any idea that he suffered from this chaotic home life, sporting the "getting on with it" attitude towards life. He had no permanent home until he married Princess Elizabeth in 1947. And as Queen Elizabeth herself has said, Philip was her "strength and stay" supporting her and the British Crown in all the decades since. His list of patronages and awards of recognition is huge.
When he and Princess Elizabeth married and she became Queen of England much earlier than expected, it put an end to Philip's very enjoyable and successful naval career, and he spent the rest of his days supporting the Queen any way he could. He felt a bit out of sorts at first trying to find relevance in his own existence, but carved out productive roles for himself. One famous (and a favorite of mine) quote of his is, "What am I? A bloody amoeba!" This was in response to his discovery that his issue with the Queen would be titled with the House of Windsor and not his style of Mountbatten.
Philip was very wary and disdainful of the press. Also, as a conversationalist he loved to be contrary almost in a debate-like form, which made things very interesting but sometimes challenging for the person speaking with him. He also believed that one should not talk about themselves much, but focus on the other person. As mentioned before, he was a great letter writer and would often try to help anyone in the family with careful advice, such as when he wrote to Princess Diana about her marriage troubles with Prince Charles. He didn't like to judge or interfere in his children's marriages, but if he felt he could help in some small way, he would take to his typewriter and offer his perspective and encouragement.
This was a very well-written book that had the "royal seal of approval", but the author didn't pull any punches when speculating on Philip's supposed affairs. He discussed these rumors in-depth, naming names and scenarios- but ultimately came to the conclusion that they were much ado about nothing. His rational for the aura of sexuality around the very handsome Philip was being the only son amongst several sisters, was celebrated and doted upon. He carried this confidence around women forward into his adult life, and was devastatingly handsome.
My only complaint with this book occurred just beyond the 90% mark in the wake of Prince Philip's death. The author had one sentence with a political bent that I found very stupid and unnecessary, and was tempted to take a point off it ticked me off so. But I let off some steam and with a clear head gave this book its due as a fine biography of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh.
Thank you to the publisher Mobius Books for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley
As a British monarchy buff of sorts, I jumped at the chance to read this biography of Prince Philip, especially in the wake of his recent death at the age of 99. This is a voluminous effort of over 500 pages, and took a long time to get through. I've read so many Windsor- related biographies over the years, but this one offered a particular focus on Philip. While you're reading about Philip, of course the writing expands to include his family so you're getting kernels of information about his wife Queen Elizabeth II, his children and their spouses, etc. The author was close to Philip so his account rings true. Indeed, Prince Philip proofread the majority of this book and corrected fine points where necessary. Apparently, Philip was big on writing personal letters on his typewriter, and so commented on anything he felt needed clarification. I found these moments quite interesting. Prince Philip was truly a very intelligent and introspective man, and I never realized just how much so until reading this book. He had a huge library at Buckingham Palace and was a voracious reader.
Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II were actually distant cousins who both descended from Queen Victoria. In fact, his mother Princess Alice of Battenberg was born in Windsor Castle. His childhood was very disrupted when the Greek royal family had to go into exile. His parents separated and he spent his later childhood essentially without a permanent home, either boarding at schools or staying with various royal family relatives. However, Philip brushed off any idea that he suffered from this chaotic home life, sporting the "getting on with it" attitude towards life. He had no permanent home until he married Princess Elizabeth in 1947. And as Queen Elizabeth herself has said, Philip was her "strength and stay" supporting her and the British Crown in all the decades since. His list of patronages and awards of recognition is huge.
When he and Princess Elizabeth married and she became Queen of England much earlier than expected, it put an end to Philip's very enjoyable and successful naval career, and he spent the rest of his days supporting the Queen any way he could. He felt a bit out of sorts at first trying to find relevance in his own existence, but carved out productive roles for himself. One famous (and a favorite of mine) quote of his is, "What am I? A bloody amoeba!" This was in response to his discovery that his issue with the Queen would be titled with the House of Windsor and not his style of Mountbatten.
Philip was very wary and disdainful of the press. Also, as a conversationalist he loved to be contrary almost in a debate-like form, which made things very interesting but sometimes challenging for the person speaking with him. He also believed that one should not talk about themselves much, but focus on the other person. As mentioned before, he was a great letter writer and would often try to help anyone in the family with careful advice, such as when he wrote to Princess Diana about her marriage troubles with Prince Charles. He didn't like to judge or interfere in his children's marriages, but if he felt he could help in some small way, he would take to his typewriter and offer his perspective and encouragement.
This was a very well-written book that had the "royal seal of approval", but the author didn't pull any punches when speculating on Philip's supposed affairs. He discussed these rumors in-depth, naming names and scenarios- but ultimately came to the conclusion that they were much ado about nothing. His rational for the aura of sexuality around the very handsome Philip was being the only son amongst several sisters, was celebrated and doted upon. He carried this confidence around women forward into his adult life, and was devastatingly handsome.
My only complaint with this book occurred just beyond the 90% mark in the wake of Prince Philip's death. The author had one sentence with a political bent that I found very stupid and unnecessary, and was tempted to take a point off it ticked me off so. But I let off some steam and with a clear head gave this book its due as a fine biography of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh.
Thank you to the publisher Mobius Books for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley
January 20, 2024
I feel a bit bad about giving this 3 stars (we’ll round up to 3.5) but honestly, it just wasn’t that exciting of a read. I respect the decision to forego sensationalist reporting (even if it may sell more copies) and sticking with a more fact-based approach. However, with Brandreth writing the book with Prince Philip’s consent (mostly), along with his edits and corrections, you also begin to wonder if certain decisions are made not from a desire to understand the truth, but from the bias of the biographer being too close to his subject.
While he does go to exhaustive ends to clear up any rumors or misconceptions about Prince Philip’s philandering ways, it’s almost obsessive and a bit too repetitive. It’s like he never quite gets to the exact bottom of things and the irrefutable truth (again, it doesn’t make it easy that Philip was avowedly averse to journalists and any writings about his life) but still, the author always seems to come to the conclusion that would be most pleasing to the late Prince. Likely because he is a man who very much enjoys name-dropping (and admits as much!).
I did enjoy the book and getting to learn as much as Prince Philip would possibly allow us to learn about him, as well as his lovely relationship with the Queen.
It also gave me a greater understanding as to why the Royal Family behaves the way they do, and why they’re instinctively wary of anyone trying to marry into the family that views the position as something to help catapult them into stardom - rather than realizing that they’re there to serve the people, and the people love them simply because of their position, not because of individual traits (Wallis, Diana, Meghan, ahem).
I’m glad that the whole saga of Harry and Meghan was barely even mentioned, rather than to refer to the entire situation as “regrettable.”
I haven’t read a lot of books on royals, so this was a good one for me to start with. I just can’t imagine it contains much of anything new for those who already know much about Prince Philip. The author’s tendency to name drop (as mentioned earlier) definitely shows throughout the book.
Even in the most mundane of conversations, the author likes to mention how this and that was told to him personally by so-and-so. I didn’t always care to know exactly every single title bestowed upon each individual mentioned in the book, yet, that’s exactly what I got.
It does, however, provide some interesting insight into Diana and Charles’s marriage that I’d never heard before. It was nice to read both sides of the story for once. To see Diana as she was, rather than her do-no-wrong portrayal after death by the press and public alike.
Newsflash to Harry: The media didn’t kill your mother. Not wearing a seatbelt killed her. Not to sound unsympathetic or insensitive because it is a tragedy nonetheless. But let’s not kid ourselves. As Brandreth states succinctly: “The press used Diana and Diana used the press.”
Would I recommend? Probably not, unless again, you know very little about royalty, want to better understand their ways, and don’t mind that it’s a bit too long and a bit too repetitive.
While he does go to exhaustive ends to clear up any rumors or misconceptions about Prince Philip’s philandering ways, it’s almost obsessive and a bit too repetitive. It’s like he never quite gets to the exact bottom of things and the irrefutable truth (again, it doesn’t make it easy that Philip was avowedly averse to journalists and any writings about his life) but still, the author always seems to come to the conclusion that would be most pleasing to the late Prince. Likely because he is a man who very much enjoys name-dropping (and admits as much!).
I did enjoy the book and getting to learn as much as Prince Philip would possibly allow us to learn about him, as well as his lovely relationship with the Queen.
It also gave me a greater understanding as to why the Royal Family behaves the way they do, and why they’re instinctively wary of anyone trying to marry into the family that views the position as something to help catapult them into stardom - rather than realizing that they’re there to serve the people, and the people love them simply because of their position, not because of individual traits (Wallis, Diana, Meghan, ahem).
I’m glad that the whole saga of Harry and Meghan was barely even mentioned, rather than to refer to the entire situation as “regrettable.”
I haven’t read a lot of books on royals, so this was a good one for me to start with. I just can’t imagine it contains much of anything new for those who already know much about Prince Philip. The author’s tendency to name drop (as mentioned earlier) definitely shows throughout the book.
Even in the most mundane of conversations, the author likes to mention how this and that was told to him personally by so-and-so. I didn’t always care to know exactly every single title bestowed upon each individual mentioned in the book, yet, that’s exactly what I got.
It does, however, provide some interesting insight into Diana and Charles’s marriage that I’d never heard before. It was nice to read both sides of the story for once. To see Diana as she was, rather than her do-no-wrong portrayal after death by the press and public alike.
Newsflash to Harry: The media didn’t kill your mother. Not wearing a seatbelt killed her. Not to sound unsympathetic or insensitive because it is a tragedy nonetheless. But let’s not kid ourselves. As Brandreth states succinctly: “The press used Diana and Diana used the press.”
Would I recommend? Probably not, unless again, you know very little about royalty, want to better understand their ways, and don’t mind that it’s a bit too long and a bit too repetitive.
August 2, 2022
- Minor Editing done -
How do you tell the story of a man like Prince Philip who lived through some remarkable social, economic, political and cultural changes without sounding like one of two types?
- rabid republican
- fawning courtier
You do it like this, with careful research, impeccable sources, love for your job and an enormous (and open eyed) respect for the man you are writting about.
Mr. Brandreth has written the best biography I have read in quite awhile, and I'm neither of the two types of people I mentioned above.
I grew up seeing Prince Philip on TV, magazines, walking a step behind the Queen, looking dashing in his uniform or his suit and with a twinkle in his eye that always made me smile. It wasn't until I got a little (a lot) older, that I found myself more curious about HMTQ and Prince Philip, so I started researching and reading bits and pieces here and there, but never quite having the full picture of the man and his life.
Ahead of his time in so many ways he was involved in so many different areas that it boggles the mind to keep track of everything he did! (Thanks to the author for the very long list he so kindly includes in the book).
Its ironic and a little sad, but then again that's life, that after all those decades being ahead, he was suddenly becoming the symbol of a an age fading out of living memory where duty, dedication, commitment and respect were pillars of everyday life and are now laughed at or just forgotten.
The author has access to a lot of people and a lot of material of Prince Philip's life and work, plus years of being in his orbit so he is in a way privileged, unlike lots of biographers out there.
What comes accross here quite clearly is the respect and the admiration that exist - mutual I would dare say, since I doubt Prince Philip would waist his time if he didn't think Mr. Brandreth was worth it.
The books reads so smoothly and almost flawlessly that it makes you have a hard time putting it down, you are carried away following his life story (and this century's history) in a very engaging and natural way.
Its clear the author was adamant in telling the story righ, in a way to be both as respectful and as truthful as possible.
This is no pro monarchy eulogy for those who may have doubts, this is a well written, respectful and at times profoundly endearing tribute to a man who certainly left his mark in this world, and whose presence I suspect the author misses very much.
PS: For those of you thinking I'm pro-monarchy , truth is he reminded so very much of my own beloved grandfather....Rest In Peace.
Happy Readings to all.
How do you tell the story of a man like Prince Philip who lived through some remarkable social, economic, political and cultural changes without sounding like one of two types?
- rabid republican
- fawning courtier
You do it like this, with careful research, impeccable sources, love for your job and an enormous (and open eyed) respect for the man you are writting about.
Mr. Brandreth has written the best biography I have read in quite awhile, and I'm neither of the two types of people I mentioned above.
I grew up seeing Prince Philip on TV, magazines, walking a step behind the Queen, looking dashing in his uniform or his suit and with a twinkle in his eye that always made me smile. It wasn't until I got a little (a lot) older, that I found myself more curious about HMTQ and Prince Philip, so I started researching and reading bits and pieces here and there, but never quite having the full picture of the man and his life.
Ahead of his time in so many ways he was involved in so many different areas that it boggles the mind to keep track of everything he did! (Thanks to the author for the very long list he so kindly includes in the book).
Its ironic and a little sad, but then again that's life, that after all those decades being ahead, he was suddenly becoming the symbol of a an age fading out of living memory where duty, dedication, commitment and respect were pillars of everyday life and are now laughed at or just forgotten.
The author has access to a lot of people and a lot of material of Prince Philip's life and work, plus years of being in his orbit so he is in a way privileged, unlike lots of biographers out there.
What comes accross here quite clearly is the respect and the admiration that exist - mutual I would dare say, since I doubt Prince Philip would waist his time if he didn't think Mr. Brandreth was worth it.
The books reads so smoothly and almost flawlessly that it makes you have a hard time putting it down, you are carried away following his life story (and this century's history) in a very engaging and natural way.
Its clear the author was adamant in telling the story righ, in a way to be both as respectful and as truthful as possible.
This is no pro monarchy eulogy for those who may have doubts, this is a well written, respectful and at times profoundly endearing tribute to a man who certainly left his mark in this world, and whose presence I suspect the author misses very much.
PS: For those of you thinking I'm pro-monarchy , truth is he reminded so very much of my own beloved grandfather....Rest In Peace.
Happy Readings to all.
May 6, 2021
An insightful and engaging portrait of Prince Philip by Gyles Brandreth, who knew the Duke of Edinburgh for decades and worked with him in one of his charities. The best parts of the book are the conversations between Brandreth and Prince Philip, which are woven into the narrative. There is a strong focus on Prince Philip's early life and the author does an excellent job of placing him within the context of Europe's interconnected royal families and exploring the impact of his turbulent childhood on his later life and philosophy. Since Philip: The Final Portrait is developed from Brandreth's previous book, Philip and Elizabeth: Portrait of a Marriage, there are lengthy chapters devoted to Prince Philip as a husband and a father. The author wonders aloud whether he should have devoted more time to Prince Philip's improvements to the royal estates and it would have been interesting to read more about his Commonwealth tours and patronage of charities and military regiments around the world. The book discusses royal events up until the departure of Harry and Meghan from their roles as senior members of the royal family in January 2020, and Prince Philip's statements of support for essential workers during the covid19 pandemic. The audiobook is well read by the author.
November 9, 2022
First Book I've read on Prince Philip, what a life lived! Interesting though!
November 9, 2021
Wow! This book is phenomenal. It is well-researched, thorough, and intriguing. Whenever I picked up “Philip: The Final Portrait”, I learned so much about Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth II, the monarchy in general, and so much more.
I can only imagine the amount of research the author Mr. Brandreth must have done, as well as the incredible amount of time he spent working on this book. Mr. Brandreth knew Prince Philip for many years, and this is so clear throughout this biography. Providing both insights and depth into Prince Philip’s public and private life, this book spans many decades with a plethora of information. The author does a phenomenal job of discussing and detailing many aspects of European history, and weaves them in throughout the book telling Philip’s specific story.
There is so much history held within this biography’s pages. As the reader, I saw and understood how various aspects of Philip’s life; from moments in his childhood, through teenage years, and into adulthood, etc. all led to him becoming the person he was. From heart-wrenching and difficult times, to heartwarming moments, and everything in between, I feel that this biography is full of information and is well-rounded. It is evident how much respect the author has for Prince Philip, and this truly jumps right off of the page.
So many historical figures are prevalent throughout this book, and tie in to what is being discussed in one way or another.
If you enjoy reading about royalty, I highly recommend this book! It kept me turning the pages, and I had such a difficult time putting it down.
Thank you so much to Mobius Books for the review copy of this book, it is incredible. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I can only imagine the amount of research the author Mr. Brandreth must have done, as well as the incredible amount of time he spent working on this book. Mr. Brandreth knew Prince Philip for many years, and this is so clear throughout this biography. Providing both insights and depth into Prince Philip’s public and private life, this book spans many decades with a plethora of information. The author does a phenomenal job of discussing and detailing many aspects of European history, and weaves them in throughout the book telling Philip’s specific story.
There is so much history held within this biography’s pages. As the reader, I saw and understood how various aspects of Philip’s life; from moments in his childhood, through teenage years, and into adulthood, etc. all led to him becoming the person he was. From heart-wrenching and difficult times, to heartwarming moments, and everything in between, I feel that this biography is full of information and is well-rounded. It is evident how much respect the author has for Prince Philip, and this truly jumps right off of the page.
So many historical figures are prevalent throughout this book, and tie in to what is being discussed in one way or another.
If you enjoy reading about royalty, I highly recommend this book! It kept me turning the pages, and I had such a difficult time putting it down.
Thank you so much to Mobius Books for the review copy of this book, it is incredible. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 10, 2023
This book features wonderful detail about the life of Prince Phillip. It confirms everything presented in Netflix's 'The Crown' except that it denies a cold reunion between Philip and Elizabeth after the 1956/1957 controversial royal tour, rather presenting the reunion as lovely and romantic. The book does confirm that Phillip was a super sexy, energetic, intelligent, duty-first gentleman. Boy, the queen was a lucky little lady!!!
I discovered a few errors in the book, too. On page 135, the author describes Queen Alexandra (wife of Edward VII) as being great-aunt to both Phillip and Elizabeth. This is untrue as Queen Alexandra was the great-grandmother to Elizabeth, not great-aunt. Yes, Queen Alexandra was the great-aunt to Phillip as she was married to the brother of Prince Phillip's great-grandmother Alice. This error drove my brain literally INSANE for a few days.
On page 208, the author describes that Elizabeth wore "her grandmother's tiara" for the royal wedding. In fact this is a partial truth as it originally belonged to her great-great grandmother Queen Victoria who designed the tiara for her own wedding in 1840.
Final error appears on page 342. This is a typographical error and currently reads, "You know you they are," but should read, "You know who they are."
My other two complaints about this narrative is that the author compares environmentally friendly Phillip to Greta Thunberg (vomit), and in the second to the last paragraph, the author categorizes President Trump with Vladimir Putin, suggesting that it was a huge mind blower that President Trump expressed his condolences to the Queen after Phillip's death (also suggesting that he is a dictator). The author wrote, "Within hours fulsome tributes to the Duke and heartfelt condolences to the Queen were pouring in from across the world. Even Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin sent messages." What a disgraceful bit of verse. Clearly this author is yet another Trump hater due to grandiose jealousy. Oy!
But I shall end this review on a lovely note. This is THE FIRST account that I have ever read which paints Diana in a negative portrait. He describes her as whiny, petulant, and unwilling to learn to understand and to please her man (Charles). She watched 1945's Brief Encounter, sobbing with her butler over and over again. So although I cannot stand Diana and felt grandly pleased to read his negative commentary on her (because I have always had this impression), I am happy, after all of these years, to find one good factoid about her: that she loved the great 'Brief Encounter' by the great Noel Coward. Extraordinary!
I discovered a few errors in the book, too. On page 135, the author describes Queen Alexandra (wife of Edward VII) as being great-aunt to both Phillip and Elizabeth. This is untrue as Queen Alexandra was the great-grandmother to Elizabeth, not great-aunt. Yes, Queen Alexandra was the great-aunt to Phillip as she was married to the brother of Prince Phillip's great-grandmother Alice. This error drove my brain literally INSANE for a few days.
On page 208, the author describes that Elizabeth wore "her grandmother's tiara" for the royal wedding. In fact this is a partial truth as it originally belonged to her great-great grandmother Queen Victoria who designed the tiara for her own wedding in 1840.
Final error appears on page 342. This is a typographical error and currently reads, "You know you they are," but should read, "You know who they are."
My other two complaints about this narrative is that the author compares environmentally friendly Phillip to Greta Thunberg (vomit), and in the second to the last paragraph, the author categorizes President Trump with Vladimir Putin, suggesting that it was a huge mind blower that President Trump expressed his condolences to the Queen after Phillip's death (also suggesting that he is a dictator). The author wrote, "Within hours fulsome tributes to the Duke and heartfelt condolences to the Queen were pouring in from across the world. Even Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin sent messages." What a disgraceful bit of verse. Clearly this author is yet another Trump hater due to grandiose jealousy. Oy!
But I shall end this review on a lovely note. This is THE FIRST account that I have ever read which paints Diana in a negative portrait. He describes her as whiny, petulant, and unwilling to learn to understand and to please her man (Charles). She watched 1945's Brief Encounter, sobbing with her butler over and over again. So although I cannot stand Diana and felt grandly pleased to read his negative commentary on her (because I have always had this impression), I am happy, after all of these years, to find one good factoid about her: that she loved the great 'Brief Encounter' by the great Noel Coward. Extraordinary!
July 19, 2021
Philip the Final Portrait, the author’s attempt to tell the truth about the intelligent, inquisitive, commanding man who stood at the side of Queen Elizabeth for over 70 years is, of course, Her Majesty’s story as well. It’s informative, gossipy, filled with much background history on European royalty as well as many anecdotes about all the players who have surrounded the couple…and those who certainly wanted to. The portrait is mostly sympathetic, but doesn’t shy away from Philip’s relationships with his children or the rumors about infidelity that swirled around the Prince…even as the author presents evidence to counteract them. The author had a decades long friendship with his subject, and this reader of books on the British Royal Family found the well documented book fascinating. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book. Most highly recommend.
May 15, 2021
I loved Prince Philip, and was so sad when I heard he had died. I also love Gyles and I enjoyed his telling of his story and that of our Queen in a very respectful way without being obsequious. I am an avid reader of everything to do with the Royal family from Queen Victoria onwards so knew much of the facts but this book has told me so much more. The book is mainly about Prince Philip but also covers the rest of the family.
September 1, 2021
An interesting book but very repetitive. Sometimes the author wrote the same things over and over, to the point that I thought my Kindle had messed up and hopped back a chapter or two. All in all, I liked it but it could have used some serious editing to avoid repeating the same stories more than once.
September 23, 2024
I actually was very interested in the book, but it doesn’t really capture the life of Philip as much as an overview of the British Monarchy. Philip is who I wanted to know more about and there was some areas that were deeper explored but on the whole it lacked a lot of substance around its subject.
December 20, 2022
Enjoyed the biography but was startled by all the casual racism (from the biographer). At a certain point, being old and from a different era isn't an excuse. Deconstruct a bit, you know?
March 2, 2025
I HATE Gyles Brandreth and this book has.....done absolutely nothing to change my opinion of him.
This book is NOT really a biography of Prince Philip at all.
The majority of the book centers around Queen Elizabeth II. With a large slice being dedicated to Queen Victoria, George VI, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother and just about everyone else you can think of born since 1850. In fact, if you took out everyone who wasn't Philip and only put in the key points of Elizabeth II, this book would be easily under 200 pages.
Then the author has great delight in constantly reminding us of his association with the National Playing Fields association. That's a good dozen or so more pages you could lose. There's 2 pages on what a psychologists description of happiness is. A paragraph debating whether the now Charles III was circumcised to which the author decides it's not our business to know (so why on earth include it), all of which is pointless and could go. He also lists EVERY SINGLE quality of each person in a separate sentence which adds several more pages to the book and uses the same sentences repeatedly in the same paragraphs and throughout the book.
There's a good 20 pages about 3/4 through that is just a long list of names that the author has spoken to. He also has great delight in constantly telling us what he has done, who he has sat down with over a cup of tea and telling us he was an MP.
If you got rid of all that extra rubbish and stripped the book down to what it's subject supposedly is, you would end up with something comfortably under 100 pages long.
From about page 170 onwards I scan read it because I couldn't bear to read any more about the grandchild of his cousin 6 times removed. The only part worth reading was the final 25 or so pages about the final weeks and the list of achievements. The rest was tedious drivel. And that is entirely the fault of the author, because by all other accounts, Philip had a pretty interesting life.
All this really is, is Gyles Brandreth exercising his egotistical and narcissistic personality and it absolutely galls me to think he's made money from me because I had hoped as this was a biography he wouldn't be focusing on himself but on his subject matter.
Unfortunately this wasn't the case and my deep, deep hatred of the man has just grown. So now not only do I have to turn off the TV or radio whenever this self obsessed man is on, I will now shudder just from reading his name.
Avoid at all costs if you want to read about Prince Philip. If you want a random list of random things that nobody asked to read, this might be the book for you. Especially if you enjoy wearing tinfoil as a hat.
This book is NOT really a biography of Prince Philip at all.
The majority of the book centers around Queen Elizabeth II. With a large slice being dedicated to Queen Victoria, George VI, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother and just about everyone else you can think of born since 1850. In fact, if you took out everyone who wasn't Philip and only put in the key points of Elizabeth II, this book would be easily under 200 pages.
Then the author has great delight in constantly reminding us of his association with the National Playing Fields association. That's a good dozen or so more pages you could lose. There's 2 pages on what a psychologists description of happiness is. A paragraph debating whether the now Charles III was circumcised to which the author decides it's not our business to know (so why on earth include it), all of which is pointless and could go. He also lists EVERY SINGLE quality of each person in a separate sentence which adds several more pages to the book and uses the same sentences repeatedly in the same paragraphs and throughout the book.
There's a good 20 pages about 3/4 through that is just a long list of names that the author has spoken to. He also has great delight in constantly telling us what he has done, who he has sat down with over a cup of tea and telling us he was an MP.
If you got rid of all that extra rubbish and stripped the book down to what it's subject supposedly is, you would end up with something comfortably under 100 pages long.
From about page 170 onwards I scan read it because I couldn't bear to read any more about the grandchild of his cousin 6 times removed. The only part worth reading was the final 25 or so pages about the final weeks and the list of achievements. The rest was tedious drivel. And that is entirely the fault of the author, because by all other accounts, Philip had a pretty interesting life.
All this really is, is Gyles Brandreth exercising his egotistical and narcissistic personality and it absolutely galls me to think he's made money from me because I had hoped as this was a biography he wouldn't be focusing on himself but on his subject matter.
Unfortunately this wasn't the case and my deep, deep hatred of the man has just grown. So now not only do I have to turn off the TV or radio whenever this self obsessed man is on, I will now shudder just from reading his name.
Avoid at all costs if you want to read about Prince Philip. If you want a random list of random things that nobody asked to read, this might be the book for you. Especially if you enjoy wearing tinfoil as a hat.
June 26, 2023
4.5/5
Very thorough and engaging take on Prince Philip of Edinburgh. I enjoyed especially the “did he or did he not??” energy of the chapters discussing his potential infidelities, since I was already very curious about the topic, and felt satisfied with the answer that Brandreth provided. Love, after all, can come in different forms, and the type of intellectual love that he forms with his female friends is the kind of love that I too reserve for people whom I admire and respect but would never have romantic feelings for. Fascinating still is the depiction of Philip and Elizabeth’s relationship, especially under the context of the history of instability in the British monarchy history (as well as in Philip’s childhood). This book has successfully torn apart the fairytale, idol-like image that I’d had of the famous royal couple, yet replaced it with the story of two very flawed individuals who manage to find contentment and even happiness in a life of constrained duty. The latter, I think, is much more worth learning from and appreciating.
The only complaint that I may have is that sometimes Brandreth seems to repetitively mention his relationship with Philip, so much so that it goes beyond proving his ethos and feels like he’s bragging. Frankly, one mention of a lunch with Philip is enough, but do we really need to be reminded every time he talks about something he learns from Philip that it was from a “meal”, “conversation”, or “party”? Like, dude, we get it. You and Philip are close. These periodic bragging bits sometimes take me out of being immersed in Philip’s story, because it becomes about Gyles instead, and we did not read this book to read about Gyles. No offense.
I had a sense of contentment after reading the final chapter of the book and about Philip’s death. Some biographies make me feel grief; some inspiration. Never has a biography like Philip’s made me feel… grateful. I realized that if Philip could find happiness and joy in his heavily pre-ordained royal life, then I could at least appreciate that I could choose what I wanted to do without fearing that I was breaking centuries’ of tradition. If there was one thing this book taught me, is that I would never ever ever want to be a royal. The nice clothes and nation-wide adoration is not worth the lifetime of constraints, exploitation, and public scrutiny.
Very thorough and engaging take on Prince Philip of Edinburgh. I enjoyed especially the “did he or did he not??” energy of the chapters discussing his potential infidelities, since I was already very curious about the topic, and felt satisfied with the answer that Brandreth provided. Love, after all, can come in different forms, and the type of intellectual love that he forms with his female friends is the kind of love that I too reserve for people whom I admire and respect but would never have romantic feelings for. Fascinating still is the depiction of Philip and Elizabeth’s relationship, especially under the context of the history of instability in the British monarchy history (as well as in Philip’s childhood). This book has successfully torn apart the fairytale, idol-like image that I’d had of the famous royal couple, yet replaced it with the story of two very flawed individuals who manage to find contentment and even happiness in a life of constrained duty. The latter, I think, is much more worth learning from and appreciating.
The only complaint that I may have is that sometimes Brandreth seems to repetitively mention his relationship with Philip, so much so that it goes beyond proving his ethos and feels like he’s bragging. Frankly, one mention of a lunch with Philip is enough, but do we really need to be reminded every time he talks about something he learns from Philip that it was from a “meal”, “conversation”, or “party”? Like, dude, we get it. You and Philip are close. These periodic bragging bits sometimes take me out of being immersed in Philip’s story, because it becomes about Gyles instead, and we did not read this book to read about Gyles. No offense.
I had a sense of contentment after reading the final chapter of the book and about Philip’s death. Some biographies make me feel grief; some inspiration. Never has a biography like Philip’s made me feel… grateful. I realized that if Philip could find happiness and joy in his heavily pre-ordained royal life, then I could at least appreciate that I could choose what I wanted to do without fearing that I was breaking centuries’ of tradition. If there was one thing this book taught me, is that I would never ever ever want to be a royal. The nice clothes and nation-wide adoration is not worth the lifetime of constraints, exploitation, and public scrutiny.
December 31, 2021
Being fond of the senior British Royals, this book was, for me, incredibly engaging and enjoyable. Having grown up with the Crown and its influence being noticeable in many aspects of life in the North-East of Scotland, Prince Philip was of particular note to me as I had taken part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award as a teen. It was mostly this participation which inspired the picking up of this book: who is this Duke of Edinburgh? Where did the award come from, and why is it named after him? Questions which were well answered in Philip: The Final Portrait.
Whether you are a royalist or not, one must acknowledge and respect the history which Philip has been a part of and lived through. Humanity has evolved more during the last century than the majority of time leading up to it, and Prince Philip saw it all first-hand and embraced it. Not only that, he had to play second fiddle to his wife, The Queen. Something which was not the norm for his time. In all the ups and downs, highs and lows, the Royals - particularly The Queen and her husband - are a steady constant throughout. It is precisely this which I admire them for; they are a piece of living history, and a reminder to all in Great Britain, the United Kingdom, and the Commonwealth, of a unity and standard that is expected from our kin.
Philip's life and actions, I believe, are proof of this. His involvement and give-back attitude towards community, science, and standard of living, is hugely impressive. An early pioneer for the conservation of the environment and adoption of newly found technologies, I admire the passion that he had in life to follow his beliefs and try to do good in the world.
His life and story has been well presented by Gyles Brandreth; not shying away from difficult topics where necessary, and instead providing the information as-it-is to the reader for their own decision. Informative, engaging, and well presented. A very good read for anyone interested in his life's story, with no need for previous knowledge before diving in.
Whether you are a royalist or not, one must acknowledge and respect the history which Philip has been a part of and lived through. Humanity has evolved more during the last century than the majority of time leading up to it, and Prince Philip saw it all first-hand and embraced it. Not only that, he had to play second fiddle to his wife, The Queen. Something which was not the norm for his time. In all the ups and downs, highs and lows, the Royals - particularly The Queen and her husband - are a steady constant throughout. It is precisely this which I admire them for; they are a piece of living history, and a reminder to all in Great Britain, the United Kingdom, and the Commonwealth, of a unity and standard that is expected from our kin.
Philip's life and actions, I believe, are proof of this. His involvement and give-back attitude towards community, science, and standard of living, is hugely impressive. An early pioneer for the conservation of the environment and adoption of newly found technologies, I admire the passion that he had in life to follow his beliefs and try to do good in the world.
His life and story has been well presented by Gyles Brandreth; not shying away from difficult topics where necessary, and instead providing the information as-it-is to the reader for their own decision. Informative, engaging, and well presented. A very good read for anyone interested in his life's story, with no need for previous knowledge before diving in.
July 10, 2022
This was quite a poignant comment by Gyles in the Introduction in my opinion ~ 'His last letter to me, was written from Windsor Castle, was full of characteristic dry humour and his trademark double exclamation marks (!!); it was James Callaghan's observation: 'What senior royalty offer you is friendliness, not friendship. There is a difference.' '
I started this book sometime ago and due to other reading pressures it was put to one side, my idea was that due to the nature of it being factual and not a fiction read that I would dip in and out of. Sadly, that plan didn't happen either as it's taken me over a year to finish.
I really enjoyed this book and felt that Gyles Brandreth wrote the book with great personal insight with having known Prince Philip for over 40 years. It was told with plenty of factual elements that clearly had been well researched, but also included many personal elements too. It shows the dedication that Prince Philip had to his role as husband of our Queen. Whilst there may have been talk of indiscretions over the years that we will never know the truth behind, that is private and should not be of any interest to us (we wouldn't be human though if we didn't want to know or be curious would we?). As a couple they put on a united front amidst any negative publicity and carried out their duties for the Country. In my opinion we have been lucky to have had them both, they dedicated their lives to the roles they had inherited and married into.
I found out things about Prince Philip, the Queen and their family that I didn't know previously. It was a book that I am glad that I chose to read, my only wish is that I had read it sooner and didn't leave it as long to get back to reading.
February 28, 2025
This was a good biography of Prince Philip from someone who knew him over a period of many years. The amount of people whom he was able to interview for the book was astounding. From Queen Elizabeth II's mistress of the robes to family and personal acquaintances, this book is littered with personal recollections from so many people, Prince Philip included, who cooperated with the author.
However, there are many, many glaring mistakes that I spotted right away upon reading. I'll give three instances:
1) The author mentions Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught, and his daughter, Margaret. The author states that Margaret eventually became Queen of Sweden. This is untrue. Margaret did indeed marry a future King of Sweden, however, she died before her husband assumed that high office.
2) The author talks about the wedding of Elizabeth and Philip. In that section, he states that the guests were wearing tiaras. This is not true. Photographs of the day will show that the only person in a tiara was the bride herself. The rest of the ladies present wore long dresses, and hats.
3) Towards the end of the book, the author talks about the future of the monarchy and specifically mentions Philip's grandson William. He says that William will eventually reign as William III. This is incorrect. Queen Victoria's immediate predecessor was William IV. There is no way William can reign as "the third" because he will be William V.
All that to say, I enjoyed this book. The humor was there. It captured Prince Philip's essence incredibly well. The details, such as I mentioned and others I can't recollect at this moment, leave a lot to be desired.
However, there are many, many glaring mistakes that I spotted right away upon reading. I'll give three instances:
1) The author mentions Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught, and his daughter, Margaret. The author states that Margaret eventually became Queen of Sweden. This is untrue. Margaret did indeed marry a future King of Sweden, however, she died before her husband assumed that high office.
2) The author talks about the wedding of Elizabeth and Philip. In that section, he states that the guests were wearing tiaras. This is not true. Photographs of the day will show that the only person in a tiara was the bride herself. The rest of the ladies present wore long dresses, and hats.
3) Towards the end of the book, the author talks about the future of the monarchy and specifically mentions Philip's grandson William. He says that William will eventually reign as William III. This is incorrect. Queen Victoria's immediate predecessor was William IV. There is no way William can reign as "the third" because he will be William V.
All that to say, I enjoyed this book. The humor was there. It captured Prince Philip's essence incredibly well. The details, such as I mentioned and others I can't recollect at this moment, leave a lot to be desired.
August 29, 2021
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Philip: The Final Portrait is about as authorized a biography as you can get with the royal family. The author knew the Duke of Edinburgh for decades and worked with him on one of his charities, and even interviewed him from time to time to clarify facts and refute rumors.
Much of the first part of the book is the history of Philip’s family as well as that of Queen Elizabeth and how their families intertwined through the years. Indeed, it was about 40% in to the book that Philip and Elizabeth were married, so yes, we’re talking deep background. It was all very interesting, and even though I knew most of the information, it was presented in a way that helped explain Philip the man instead just the figurehead.
The history is interspersed with conversations with Prince Philip, where he corrects facts or just plain tells the author he is wrong. Knowing this was going to be a book, the Duke of Edinburgh does not offer any revelations or say anything unexpected. He’s simply there to make sure the author gets it right.
Much time is spent, rightfully so, on the many charities the Duke supported in his decades of work. There’s a long list at the back of the book that lists them, and it’s simply amazing how busy he was, for more than fifty years. I highly recommend this book if you want to know more about the Duke. Even if you think you’ve read it all, you haven’t. There are some nuggets in here that I won’t spoil for you.
Philip: The Final Portrait is about as authorized a biography as you can get with the royal family. The author knew the Duke of Edinburgh for decades and worked with him on one of his charities, and even interviewed him from time to time to clarify facts and refute rumors.
Much of the first part of the book is the history of Philip’s family as well as that of Queen Elizabeth and how their families intertwined through the years. Indeed, it was about 40% in to the book that Philip and Elizabeth were married, so yes, we’re talking deep background. It was all very interesting, and even though I knew most of the information, it was presented in a way that helped explain Philip the man instead just the figurehead.
The history is interspersed with conversations with Prince Philip, where he corrects facts or just plain tells the author he is wrong. Knowing this was going to be a book, the Duke of Edinburgh does not offer any revelations or say anything unexpected. He’s simply there to make sure the author gets it right.
Much time is spent, rightfully so, on the many charities the Duke supported in his decades of work. There’s a long list at the back of the book that lists them, and it’s simply amazing how busy he was, for more than fifty years. I highly recommend this book if you want to know more about the Duke. Even if you think you’ve read it all, you haven’t. There are some nuggets in here that I won’t spoil for you.
November 3, 2021
Hypes Brandreth is a story teller and over many years he may have been the meat successful writer to get prince Philip to tell his story. It wasn’t easy, and it was always abbreviated in a maddening way. Of a childhood in which his grandfather was assassinated, his mother was put in an asylum, his father left for a mistress in Monte Carlo, and one of his sisters died in an airplane accident, Philip said “well, you just have to get on with it…right?”
Brandreth tells us from the beginning that this is as much the story of Elizabeth as it is of Philip. This is not only because Philip’s whole life was dedicated to supporting Elizabeth in her burden, but also because this book is based on a book Brandreth published in 2002 on both of them (expediency to publish…). While I had my doubts when I read that sentence, I was not disappointed with the work that went into updating the last 19 years of his (their) lives.
Brandreth also indicated early on that he would spend the bulk of the book discussing the “army years”, on the premise that “what people are is a reflection of where they came from.” In the final analysis I thought this was far more interesting and enjoyable to read than a strictly chronological review of his life in each of his 10 decades.
The chatty, conversational, story telling approach really made this one of the best books on the Windsors I have read recently.
Brandreth tells us from the beginning that this is as much the story of Elizabeth as it is of Philip. This is not only because Philip’s whole life was dedicated to supporting Elizabeth in her burden, but also because this book is based on a book Brandreth published in 2002 on both of them (expediency to publish…). While I had my doubts when I read that sentence, I was not disappointed with the work that went into updating the last 19 years of his (their) lives.
Brandreth also indicated early on that he would spend the bulk of the book discussing the “army years”, on the premise that “what people are is a reflection of where they came from.” In the final analysis I thought this was far more interesting and enjoyable to read than a strictly chronological review of his life in each of his 10 decades.
The chatty, conversational, story telling approach really made this one of the best books on the Windsors I have read recently.
June 11, 2022
( Format : Audiobook )
"Spanning a century."
The fascinating biography of a man who lived for almost a century, most of his life constantly observed by the rest of the world through the biased eyes of the press. But by the very nature of his position as husband to the Queen of England, he was know my very few. The author, Gyles Brandreth, was probably one of the people, outside of Prince Philip's very small, intimate circle who grew to know him best and this book is a record of both his memories and intensive research amongst those who knew and lived closest to him.The
I have never been a full blooded royalist but have always admired the hard work and dedication of both the Queen and her husband and am even more so after reading this book, also read by the author. It is the story of a strange life of wealth but without power and totally dominated to what he saw as his duty to the Queen.
Highly recommended to everyone both as an historic record and as insight into a long life spanning a century.
"Spanning a century."
The fascinating biography of a man who lived for almost a century, most of his life constantly observed by the rest of the world through the biased eyes of the press. But by the very nature of his position as husband to the Queen of England, he was know my very few. The author, Gyles Brandreth, was probably one of the people, outside of Prince Philip's very small, intimate circle who grew to know him best and this book is a record of both his memories and intensive research amongst those who knew and lived closest to him.The
I have never been a full blooded royalist but have always admired the hard work and dedication of both the Queen and her husband and am even more so after reading this book, also read by the author. It is the story of a strange life of wealth but without power and totally dominated to what he saw as his duty to the Queen.
Highly recommended to everyone both as an historic record and as insight into a long life spanning a century.
August 24, 2021
Philip: The Final Portrait gives a detailed history starting with his long lineage, his childhood, his marriage and his very public life as the longest-serving consort in British history. Gyles Brandreth’s combined history, genealogy, correspondences and his own personal knowledge from his over forty year relationship with Prince Philip to create a well written account of Prince Philip’s life and a look at both his public and private life. Brandreth’s portrait of Prince Philp provides insight into his intelligence, strength and humor while giving background to events that formed Prince Philip’s beliefs, values and reactions to the world around him. Philip: The Final Portrait describes an extraordinary public figure and shows the human side of him as well. Thank you to the Gyles Brandreth, Mobius Publishing and NetGalley for opportunity to preview the book.
December 6, 2021
I really liked this fascinating royal history. It covers a cast of hundreds, but the author generally gives each person when mentioned their title and relationship with Prince Philip, so I found I always knew who was being spoken about and their position in the prince's life. That is repetitive, but welcomely so as there a lot of relatives, friends, and colleagues mentioned. The royal history goes back to Prince Philip's great grandmother, Queen Victoria, and moves forwards from there, covering Prince Philip's and Queen Elizabeth's families. What a unique man Prince Philip was, I am glad that I read his biography to learn more about him. If you are looking for gossip and salacious small talk - there is none here. This book is respectfully written, factual and a history of Prince Philip's early life, and his life with Queen Elizabeth.
October 9, 2022
Finally finished this after weeks of slow going - amazing how much reading you can get done in a weekend travelling between countries ; )
This was equal parts interesting and frustrating. Brandreth has obviously done his research (including talking extensively with his subject, which must have been fascinating) and Prince Philip has certainly led an unusual life, but I almost wish Brandreth hadn't bothered to speculate on certain subjects since we keep coming up against dead ends.
Still, it was always going to be tricky to write about a man who didn't like giving interviews, wasn't a fan of being complimented or blowing his own trumpet, and often kept his cards close to his chest - frankly, it's a miracle (and a testament to Brandreth's persistence) that this book exists at all.
Drinking game: drink every time the word 'telling' is used. It's a lot.
This was equal parts interesting and frustrating. Brandreth has obviously done his research (including talking extensively with his subject, which must have been fascinating) and Prince Philip has certainly led an unusual life, but I almost wish Brandreth hadn't bothered to speculate on certain subjects since we keep coming up against dead ends.
Still, it was always going to be tricky to write about a man who didn't like giving interviews, wasn't a fan of being complimented or blowing his own trumpet, and often kept his cards close to his chest - frankly, it's a miracle (and a testament to Brandreth's persistence) that this book exists at all.
Drinking game: drink every time the word 'telling' is used. It's a lot.
January 3, 2023
Read this just after Prince Phillip died. I always liked him he would tell the truth to your face no matter what. Some of his gaffes over the years were quite funny albeit not politically correct. It was definitely a love story between himself and the late Queen and something we will never see again. I feel genuinely sad that both are no longer with us and we’ve got Charles and Camilla whom nobody wanted to become Queen but Charles has got his own way.
The House of Windsor will go on but it’s never going to be what it once was.
I’m in awe how at 18 and 13 Prince Phillip and Princess Elizabeth fell in love and travelled all over the world and commonwealth and had a family of four and never complained never explained. How disappointing what one of their spoilt grandsons is doing to their legacy. Still this book is wonderful and I really enjoyed it.
The House of Windsor will go on but it’s never going to be what it once was.
I’m in awe how at 18 and 13 Prince Phillip and Princess Elizabeth fell in love and travelled all over the world and commonwealth and had a family of four and never complained never explained. How disappointing what one of their spoilt grandsons is doing to their legacy. Still this book is wonderful and I really enjoyed it.
February 13, 2025
I find it very hard to rate this because I came to it after reading Elizabeth: The Final portrait and found I was basically reading (well, listening, as it was on Audible) to much of the same content. I discovered later that both books were an amended update of an earlier book about their marriage.
If I have not just read the book about the late Queen and therefore not abandoned this but was marking it as a stand alone work, I would have given it a higher rating.
I believe they both made a big enough contribution to warrant completely individual books. Considering Gyles had more access than many people to them. If he didn't have enough material for either book after the wedding book, why not reach out to many people who had known and worked with them. Or even ask the public for their memories and collate them together. To be honest I felt rather cheated.
If I have not just read the book about the late Queen and therefore not abandoned this but was marking it as a stand alone work, I would have given it a higher rating.
I believe they both made a big enough contribution to warrant completely individual books. Considering Gyles had more access than many people to them. If he didn't have enough material for either book after the wedding book, why not reach out to many people who had known and worked with them. Or even ask the public for their memories and collate them together. To be honest I felt rather cheated.
July 5, 2025
Saw the book in the bargain department at Broese in Utrecht and while I would not have bought the book at full price I am glad I could snap it up at less than half. Brandreth knows how to write, he is witty without being LOL, he knows his subject intimately, he is decidedly not gossipy and tries to stick to facts as much as possible. If he fails to reveal anything about Philip's philandering, as some reviewers have complained, that is perhaps because there wasn't any (which some find hard to believe). It certainly is not a biography but indeed a portrait of both him and Elizabeth. I think I have learntmore than enough about the two of them than I will ever need to know. I found it an enjoyable, balanced, humorous read. The only howler I really couldn't understand is that Brandreth has us believe that the current Prince of Wales, William, will become William.......III. Oh dear.....
January 31, 2023
Excellent and personal biography on HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, discussing their childhoods, families of origin, royal lineage, their friendship and love story. The strengths of the marriage as well as its less understandable qualities gets a fair examination by Brandreth too. He discusses their work both separately and in great detail what they accomplished together, through charitable causes and for national stability. The author gives his observations and those of their Royal highnesses regarding their children and in-laws. It’s a well researched, thorough book, with many personal anecdotal stories from the author’s many encounters with Prince Philip in particular and also the Queen.
February 15, 2024
It is hard to plagiarize yourself but copying and pasting the whole chapters into another book is simply ridiculous. Maybe it is my mistake that I have read first the book about Queen Elizabeth II and then about Philip but even if I read it in the right order I still would notice the whole chapters incorporated into the book about the late Queen. It really took away from the joy of reading it. The author could’ve used different words to describe the same events vs. Copying and pasting
Bottom line is - don’t waste your money on reading both books. Buy the one about Queen Elizabeth and you will know everything about Philip because that’s where the whole content came from - the book about him: The final portrait.
Bottom line is - don’t waste your money on reading both books. Buy the one about Queen Elizabeth and you will know everything about Philip because that’s where the whole content came from - the book about him: The final portrait.
May 9, 2024
[2022] An extremely well written and informative biography from an author who has excellent command of English and had an on-going relationship with the subject, Prince Philip. It tracks all his life from impoverished Greek Prince to Consort of Queen Elizabeth II. It describes his activities, interest and personality and although there is not a great deal of new material, there is some. The author has interviewed family and friends and created a detailed analysis of the man. I thoroughly enjoyed it - it was an easy read, although the chapters are long. The pictures are interesting and family trees informative. If I could be critical there were two things I could say, the first is as a friend of the subject there are times in the book where I thought that Brandreth's friendship with the Prince got in the way of the analysis and he was - perhaps, ever-so-slightly unbalanced. It was unarguable that Prince Philip was at times rude and exploited his position. Secondly, although I totally accept that you could argue that Prince Philip had 'a supporting role' in life, and the monarchy, in Britain, he sometimes gets lost in the descriptions of others, notably the Queen. For instance page after page losses him completely.
I understand the sub-title 'Elizabeth, their marriage and their dynasty' suggests it was not going to be exclusively biographical. I also thought that much of the material was a re-hash of the authors other book about the Royal marriage. Still, with these two things in mind, I would still recommend it as an excellent biography of the late, Prince Philip.
I understand the sub-title 'Elizabeth, their marriage and their dynasty' suggests it was not going to be exclusively biographical. I also thought that much of the material was a re-hash of the authors other book about the Royal marriage. Still, with these two things in mind, I would still recommend it as an excellent biography of the late, Prince Philip.
March 16, 2025
I’ve read a couple of biographies on Prince Philip and Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, so this covers familiar ground and nothing earth shattering is revealed, even if the author had found any hidden secrets I highly doubt he would reveal them.
Did Prince Philip have extramarital affairs, I think the jury’s still out on that, but I personally doubt it. In all the years I’ve watched him and read articles about him, he was very forthright in his opinions and his feelings regarding his eldest son’s extramarital affair lead me to think it would be to hypocritical of him to call that out if he had done the same thing, he was many things but never struck me as a hypocrite.
All in all I enjoyed it, my only criticism is the chapters are very long.
Did Prince Philip have extramarital affairs, I think the jury’s still out on that, but I personally doubt it. In all the years I’ve watched him and read articles about him, he was very forthright in his opinions and his feelings regarding his eldest son’s extramarital affair lead me to think it would be to hypocritical of him to call that out if he had done the same thing, he was many things but never struck me as a hypocrite.
All in all I enjoyed it, my only criticism is the chapters are very long.
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