An eye-opening and undeniably thought provoking read, 27 Jul 2008
I've always had my suspcisions that Diana's death was more than a mere accident - and have been constantly derided by those who challenge my opinion. This is THE book that everyone should read with an open mind - and then make their decision. All that remains are far too many unanswered questions and this is still to my mind an unsolved case. The author writes in a pragmatic and unbiased manner, presenting the evidence of which I would imagine the public remain blissfully unaware, but which must be in the public domain.

Neither unique, nor astounding, 13 Oct 2007
The book's backcover blurts that the author uses «unique contacts in the secretive worlds of intelligence and royalty», but you and I have read so many magazine articles and books with leaks from intelligence sources and rivers of mud from royalty close friends, servants, and bodyguards, that the book could not be defended on that merit alone.

It also claims to be «astounding [for] blowing the lid off the secrets the Establishment does not want us to know», but that's not true for Al Fayed Senior and plenty of journalists have exposed that and more, a good number of times, even quoting people that this book also cites as sources.

I made myself a duty to read first A Royal Duty (Paul Burrel, 2003) and listening to The Bodyguard's Story (Trevor Rees-Jones 2000), plusa few others, as well as to the grieving father's accusations and the French and English authorities official reports (as far as these have been made public). Naturally I made mental notes of an unexplained point here, a surprising inuendo there, a gross fact overlooked elsewhere. I am not paid to keep tabs on unexplained facts in car crashes, security videotapes that appear and disappear, and relations between who was at the scene of the murder, sorry, the accident when Diana and Dodi (and please do not forget, Monsieur Henri Paul) died.

The merit of this book is that it exposes in a clear, matter-of-fact (at times even irritating) way a possible link of persons and events, through time and space, until they sort of meet at fatal pilar 13, Alma Tunnel, Paris, on the fateful 31 August 1997. The book makes clear that fate did not play a part in this tragedy, that every step of the «actors» was logical per se, and names the people and the institutions that are to blame. Like in some of Agatha Chistie's crime murders, you may end up thinking this is a bit far fetched, but on second reading you realise that the Author did not let a stone unturned, and you can not explain ALL the facts and events in a more logical way.

It makes for fascinating reading - and very, very disturbing to people who still accept the idea that we are living in a law abiding world.

To reach 5 stars the book should have been longer and spell out in dense footnotes it's sources. Not that I doubt things and sources are true, as I remember having read them first place in the world media.

It's nonsense, 18 Oct 2005
If you are a member of the Cult of Diana, who believes Diana was a fairy tale princessvictim of the royal family, you'll like this book. If you are looking for balanced unbiased reporting, look elsewhere.

Those who tend to fall for conspiracy theories will no doubt already believe this one. Others will see that this book presents no real evidence of any plots.

an excellent insight into the truth..., 30 Jun 2005
this book gives such an excellent insight into the sad life of Diana and all she had to endure from the royal family,also a very indepth account of the lead upto and events following her assassination.

An eye-opening and undeniably thought provoking read, 27 Jul 2008
I've always had my suspcisions that Diana's death was more than a mere accident - and have been constantly derided by those who challenge my opinion. This is THE book that everyone should read with an open mind - and then make their decision. All that remains are far too many unanswered questions and this is still to my mind an unsolved case. The author writes in a pragmatic and unbiased manner, presenting the evidence of which I would imagine the public remain blissfully unaware, but which must be in the public domain.

Neither unique, nor astounding, 13 Oct 2007
The book's backcover blurts that the author uses «unique contacts in the secretive worlds of intelligence and royalty», but you and I have read so many magazine articles and books with leaks from intelligence sources and rivers of mud from royalty close friends, servants, and bodyguards, that the book could not be defended on that merit alone.

It also claims to be «astounding [for] blowing the lid off the secrets the Establishment does not want us to know», but that's not true for Al Fayed Senior and plenty of journalists have exposed that and more, a good number of times, even quoting people that this book also cites as sources.

I made myself a duty to read first A Royal Duty (Paul Burrel, 2003) and listening to The Bodyguard's Story (Trevor Rees-Jones 2000), plusa few others, as well as to the grieving father's accusations and the French and English authorities official reports (as far as these have been made public). Naturally I made mental notes of an unexplained point here, a surprising inuendo there, a gross fact overlooked elsewhere. I am not paid to keep tabs on unexplained facts in car crashes, security videotapes that appear and disappear, and relations between who was at the scene of the murder, sorry, the accident when Diana and Dodi (and please do not forget, Monsieur Henri Paul) died.

The merit of this book is that it exposes in a clear, matter-of-fact (at times even irritating) way a possible link of persons and events, through time and space, until they sort of meet at fatal pilar 13, Alma Tunnel, Paris, on the fateful 31 August 1997. The book makes clear that fate did not play a part in this tragedy, that every step of the «actors» was logical per se, and names the people and the institutions that are to blame. Like in some of Agatha Chistie's crime murders, you may end up thinking this is a bit far fetched, but on second reading you realise that the Author did not let a stone unturned, and you can not explain ALL the facts and events in a more logical way.

It makes for fascinating reading - and very, very disturbing to people who still accept the idea that we are living in a law abiding world.

To reach 5 stars the book should have been longer and spell out in dense footnotes it's sources. Not that I doubt things and sources are true, as I remember having read them first place in the world media.

It's nonsense, 18 Oct 2005
If you are a member of the Cult of Diana, who believes Diana was a fairy tale princessvictim of the royal family, you'll like this book. If you are looking for balanced unbiased reporting, look elsewhere.

Those who tend to fall for conspiracy theories will no doubt already believe this one. Others will see that this book presents no real evidence of any plots.

an excellent insight into the truth..., 30 Jun 2005
this book gives such an excellent insight into the sad life of Diana and all she had to endure from the royal family,also a very indepth account of the lead upto and events following her assassination.

I love That Book, 08 Dec 2007
I love that book! Please will be sending it to me by post? Will i sending you my address home?
With respect from,
Diana

A nice tribute, 09 Jan 2004
Like much of the rest of the world, I was captivated by then-Lady Diana Spencer as she became known to the world through her association with Prince Charles, and I followed the developments with interest through the build-up to the royal wedding, the early marriage, the difficult years, and finally, Diana's tragic death in Paris in 1997. Her death was a stunning blow to many; one is reminded of the song 'you don't know what you've got 'till it's gone', for the world seemed to stop for the tragedy, which is still being played out in various sectors to this day.

There really was a fairy-tale aspect to Diana's life – she was always larger than life, and being perhaps the most photogenic royal of all time, every newspaper, periodical and media outlet wanted to be on hand to document her every move. This was certainly no fairy-tale existence for her, as she recounted in various ways to her few friends; one will likely never know the complete story of her life and death, but there are enough strands about that one can piece together happy times and sad times.

This particular book is one of the many that appeared shortly after her death, as people everywhere scrambled to get a last remembrance or memorial of Diana, as if her death would stop the production and sale of her story and image. It has many of the 'standard' photographs one has come to expect in any royal-family or Diana book – pictures well known now around the world from her childhood, courtship, marriage, and funeral.

The book is divided into six primary sections: Diana's Early Life; Diana and Charles; Diana the Devoted Mother; Diana, Queen of Hearts; Diana and Friends; and finally, Goodbye England's Rose. Here there is a very basic history, essentially free of controversy and strife, recounting merely the basic facts with stoicism tinted with a bit of sadness of the break-up of the world's most famous marriage. The photographs include the famous balcony scenes after the wedding, Diana alone in front of the Taj Mahal (a symbol of great love from another royal husband), Diana with her sons, and finally, pictures of the funeral and the island in the Spencer estate.

It is sad to look back after these many years at the glamourous pictures, realising the back-story that was taking place at the time. I collected royal books for many years prior to this, and this is not an exceptional book either in content or in style, but is rather made exceptional by the subject, Diana herself, and the obvious care the author (a correspondent of Independent Television Network in Britain) and compilers devoted in bringing things so quickly to the public.

More will be written of Diana, surely, but the record of Diana must certainly be a visual one, complete with photographs, and this collection represents many of the best.

An eye-opening and undeniably thought provoking read, 27 Jul 2008
I've always had my suspcisions that Diana's death was more than a mere accident - and have been constantly derided by those who challenge my opinion. This is THE book that everyone should read with an open mind - and then make their decision. All that remains are far too many unanswered questions and this is still to my mind an unsolved case. The author writes in a pragmatic and unbiased manner, presenting the evidence of which I would imagine the public remain blissfully unaware, but which must be in the public domain.

Neither unique, nor astounding, 13 Oct 2007
The book's backcover blurts that the author uses «unique contacts in the secretive worlds of intelligence and royalty», but you and I have read so many magazine articles and books with leaks from intelligence sources and rivers of mud from royalty close friends, servants, and bodyguards, that the book could not be defended on that merit alone.

It also claims to be «astounding [for] blowing the lid off the secrets the Establishment does not want us to know», but that's not true for Al Fayed Senior and plenty of journalists have exposed that and more, a good number of times, even quoting people that this book also cites as sources.

I made myself a duty to read first A Royal Duty (Paul Burrel, 2003) and listening to The Bodyguard's Story (Trevor Rees-Jones 2000), plusa few others, as well as to the grieving father's accusations and the French and English authorities official reports (as far as these have been made public). Naturally I made mental notes of an unexplained point here, a surprising inuendo there, a gross fact overlooked elsewhere. I am not paid to keep tabs on unexplained facts in car crashes, security videotapes that appear and disappear, and relations between who was at the scene of the murder, sorry, the accident when Diana and Dodi (and please do not forget, Monsieur Henri Paul) died.

The merit of this book is that it exposes in a clear, matter-of-fact (at times even irritating) way a possible link of persons and events, through time and space, until they sort of meet at fatal pilar 13, Alma Tunnel, Paris, on the fateful 31 August 1997. The book makes clear that fate did not play a part in this tragedy, that every step of the «actors» was logical per se, and names the people and the institutions that are to blame. Like in some of Agatha Chistie's crime murders, you may end up thinking this is a bit far fetched, but on second reading you realise that the Author did not let a stone unturned, and you can not explain ALL the facts and events in a more logical way.

It makes for fascinating reading - and very, very disturbing to people who still accept the idea that we are living in a law abiding world.

To reach 5 stars the book should have been longer and spell out in dense footnotes it's sources. Not that I doubt things and sources are true, as I remember having read them first place in the world media.

It's nonsense, 18 Oct 2005
If you are a member of the Cult of Diana, who believes Diana was a fairy tale princessvictim of the royal family, you'll like this book. If you are looking for balanced unbiased reporting, look elsewhere.

Those who tend to fall for conspiracy theories will no doubt already believe this one. Others will see that this book presents no real evidence of any plots.

an excellent insight into the truth..., 30 Jun 2005
this book gives such an excellent insight into the sad life of Diana and all she had to endure from the royal family,also a very indepth account of the lead upto and events following her assassination.

I love That Book, 08 Dec 2007
I love that book! Please will be sending it to me by post? Will i sending you my address home?
With respect from,
Diana

A nice tribute, 09 Jan 2004
Like much of the rest of the world, I was captivated by then-Lady Diana Spencer as she became known to the world through her association with Prince Charles, and I followed the developments with interest through the build-up to the royal wedding, the early marriage, the difficult years, and finally, Diana's tragic death in Paris in 1997. Her death was a stunning blow to many; one is reminded of the song 'you don't know what you've got 'till it's gone', for the world seemed to stop for the tragedy, which is still being played out in various sectors to this day.

There really was a fairy-tale aspect to Diana's life – she was always larger than life, and being perhaps the most photogenic royal of all time, every newspaper, periodical and media outlet wanted to be on hand to document her every move. This was certainly no fairy-tale existence for her, as she recounted in various ways to her few friends; one will likely never know the complete story of her life and death, but there are enough strands about that one can piece together happy times and sad times.

This particular book is one of the many that appeared shortly after her death, as people everywhere scrambled to get a last remembrance or memorial of Diana, as if her death would stop the production and sale of her story and image. It has many of the 'standard' photographs one has come to expect in any royal-family or Diana book – pictures well known now around the world from her childhood, courtship, marriage, and funeral.

The book is divided into six primary sections: Diana's Early Life; Diana and Charles; Diana the Devoted Mother; Diana, Queen of Hearts; Diana and Friends; and finally, Goodbye England's Rose. Here there is a very basic history, essentially free of controversy and strife, recounting merely the basic facts with stoicism tinted with a bit of sadness of the break-up of the world's most famous marriage. The photographs include the famous balcony scenes after the wedding, Diana alone in front of the Taj Mahal (a symbol of great love from another royal husband), Diana with her sons, and finally, pictures of the funeral and the island in the Spencer estate.

It is sad to look back after these many years at the glamourous pictures, realising the back-story that was taking place at the time. I collected royal books for many years prior to this, and this is not an exceptional book either in content or in style, but is rather made exceptional by the subject, Diana herself, and the obvious care the author (a correspondent of Independent Television Network in Britain) and compilers devoted in bringing things so quickly to the public.

More will be written of Diana, surely, but the record of Diana must certainly be a visual one, complete with photographs, and this collection represents many of the best.

One of two favorite Diana biographies, 24 Mar 2008
The other is: Sarah Bradford's biography of Diana. (I also liked Ken Wharfe's memoir very much.)

Ms. Bedell-Smith digs deep and sometimes unsympathetically into the life of Diana, Princess of Wales. However, I think for the most part she is objective about Diana, not objectionable -- in other words, she tells Diana's story as it was, not as we might WISH it was. Diana had her bad points. She was self-absorbed at times; manipulative; involved her boys a little too much into her personal problems; impulsive. In some ways she hurt the Royal family, yet she also breathed new life into the old institution.

Ms. Bedell-Smith is also right on target about Diana's relationship with Dodi Fayed. It was a terrible step backward for her, and quite simply, her actions all during the month of August 1997 (with hindsight) clearly point to her confusion and unhappiness, instead of joy and confidence.

An eye-opening and undeniably thought provoking read, 27 Jul 2008
I've always had my suspcisions that Diana's death was more than a mere accident - and have been constantly derided by those who challenge my opinion. This is THE book that everyone should read with an open mind - and then make their decision. All that remains are far too many unanswered questions and this is still to my mind an unsolved case. The author writes in a pragmatic and unbiased manner, presenting the evidence of which I would imagine the public remain blissfully unaware, but which must be in the public domain.

Neither unique, nor astounding, 13 Oct 2007
The book's backcover blurts that the author uses «unique contacts in the secretive worlds of intelligence and royalty», but you and I have read so many magazine articles and books with leaks from intelligence sources and rivers of mud from royalty close friends, servants, and bodyguards, that the book could not be defended on that merit alone.

It also claims to be «astounding [for] blowing the lid off the secrets the Establishment does not want us to know», but that's not true for Al Fayed Senior and plenty of journalists have exposed that and more, a good number of times, even quoting people that this book also cites as sources.

I made myself a duty to read first A Royal Duty (Paul Burrel, 2003) and listening to The Bodyguard's Story (Trevor Rees-Jones 2000), plusa few others, as well as to the grieving father's accusations and the French and English authorities official reports (as far as these have been made public). Naturally I made mental notes of an unexplained point here, a surprising inuendo there, a gross fact overlooked elsewhere. I am not paid to keep tabs on unexplained facts in car crashes, security videotapes that appear and disappear, and relations between who was at the scene of the murder, sorry, the accident when Diana and Dodi (and please do not forget, Monsieur Henri Paul) died.

The merit of this book is that it exposes in a clear, matter-of-fact (at times even irritating) way a possible link of persons and events, through time and space, until they sort of meet at fatal pilar 13, Alma Tunnel, Paris, on the fateful 31 August 1997. The book makes clear that fate did not play a part in this tragedy, that every step of the «actors» was logical per se, and names the people and the institutions that are to blame. Like in some of Agatha Chistie's crime murders, you may end up thinking this is a bit far fetched, but on second reading you realise that the Author did not let a stone unturned, and you can not explain ALL the facts and events in a more logical way.

It makes for fascinating reading - and very, very disturbing to people who still accept the idea that we are living in a law abiding world.

To reach 5 stars the book should have been longer and spell out in dense footnotes it's sources. Not that I doubt things and sources are true, as I remember having read them first place in the world media.

It's nonsense, 18 Oct 2005
If you are a member of the Cult of Diana, who believes Diana was a fairy tale princessvictim of the royal family, you'll like this book. If you are looking for balanced unbiased reporting, look elsewhere.

Those who tend to fall for conspiracy theories will no doubt already believe this one. Others will see that this book presents no real evidence of any plots.

an excellent insight into the truth..., 30 Jun 2005
this book gives such an excellent insight into the sad life of Diana and all she had to endure from the royal family,also a very indepth account of the lead upto and events following her assassination.

I love That Book, 08 Dec 2007
I love that book! Please will be sending it to me by post? Will i sending you my address home?
With respect from,
Diana

A nice tribute, 09 Jan 2004
Like much of the rest of the world, I was captivated by then-Lady Diana Spencer as she became known to the world through her association with Prince Charles, and I followed the developments with interest through the build-up to the royal wedding, the early marriage, the difficult years, and finally, Diana's tragic death in Paris in 1997. Her death was a stunning blow to many; one is reminded of the song 'you don't know what you've got 'till it's gone', for the world seemed to stop for the tragedy, which is still being played out in various sectors to this day.

There really was a fairy-tale aspect to Diana's life – she was always larger than life, and being perhaps the most photogenic royal of all time, every newspaper, periodical and media outlet wanted to be on hand to document her every move. This was certainly no fairy-tale existence for her, as she recounted in various ways to her few friends; one will likely never know the complete story of her life and death, but there are enough strands about that one can piece together happy times and sad times.

This particular book is one of the many that appeared shortly after her death, as people everywhere scrambled to get a last remembrance or memorial of Diana, as if her death would stop the production and sale of her story and image. It has many of the 'standard' photographs one has come to expect in any royal-family or Diana book – pictures well known now around the world from her childhood, courtship, marriage, and funeral.

The book is divided into six primary sections: Diana's Early Life; Diana and Charles; Diana the Devoted Mother; Diana, Queen of Hearts; Diana and Friends; and finally, Goodbye England's Rose. Here there is a very basic history, essentially free of controversy and strife, recounting merely the basic facts with stoicism tinted with a bit of sadness of the break-up of the world's most famous marriage. The photographs include the famous balcony scenes after the wedding, Diana alone in front of the Taj Mahal (a symbol of great love from another royal husband), Diana with her sons, and finally, pictures of the funeral and the island in the Spencer estate.

It is sad to look back after these many years at the glamourous pictures, realising the back-story that was taking place at the time. I collected royal books for many years prior to this, and this is not an exceptional book either in content or in style, but is rather made exceptional by the subject, Diana herself, and the obvious care the author (a correspondent of Independent Television Network in Britain) and compilers devoted in bringing things so quickly to the public.

More will be written of Diana, surely, but the record of Diana must certainly be a visual one, complete with photographs, and this collection represents many of the best.

One of two favorite Diana biographies, 24 Mar 2008
The other is: Sarah Bradford's biography of Diana. (I also liked Ken Wharfe's memoir very much.)

Ms. Bedell-Smith digs deep and sometimes unsympathetically into the life of Diana, Princess of Wales. However, I think for the most part she is objective about Diana, not objectionable -- in other words, she tells Diana's story as it was, not as we might WISH it was. Diana had her bad points. She was self-absorbed at times; manipulative; involved her boys a little too much into her personal problems; impulsive. In some ways she hurt the Royal family, yet she also breathed new life into the old institution.

Ms. Bedell-Smith is also right on target about Diana's relationship with Dodi Fayed. It was a terrible step backward for her, and quite simply, her actions all during the month of August 1997 (with hindsight) clearly point to her confusion and unhappiness, instead of joy and confidence.



A Very Different Perspective!, 06 Jan 2004
Most of the Diana books I have read have been complimentary on Diana to the point where they reveal nothing but the authors admiration of her. Kate Snell seems to have approached Diana from a perspective of being totally honest and, therefore, revealing the human aspects of Diana without her own personal opinions clouding the facts. In places this book is so honest about the human side of Diana that it reveals her behaviour which could at times be cruel, selfish and calculating. In contrast, I found the Paul Burrell book quite cloying, clouded, one-sided and it revealed very little! The story of Diana and Hasnat is probably one of the greatest love tragedies of all time, but little was known of it until now. Dodi has been given far too much credit as being her 'last love' and this book totally blows that claim out of the water. Until now, nobody probably realised that Hasnat was such an important figure in Diana's life, mostly due to the fact that he is a private man who has courted no publicity whatsoever since her death. One thing this book does make you think is that Hasnat, wherever he is now, has probably had to live with a massive burden of guilt since Diana's death. It seems 100% certain that, had Hasnat not ended the relationship, Diana would never have been in Paris with Dodi that night.

An interesting read for anyone who read the papers, 31 Jul 2002
At first I was dubious about reading this book, suspecting it to be yet another text riding on the waves of media sensationalism for profit. I was pleasantly surprised.

This is no gossip plug. Rather it is a somewhat unforeseen account of Diana's life, written with due sensitivity and respect. Using some of her closest confidents, this book exposes a very different image of Diana to the one many of us have gained from media representation, particularly in accounts leading up to her death. It not only highlights the context behind some of the much publicised pain that Diana experienced in her life, but also shows how, despite all, this woman was able to maintain some strengths. What a terrible shame that, being happy with the man she loved was made so difficult by her fame, and as things could have become easier she had to meet such an untimely end.

Excellent book, 20 Oct 2000
Before I go on and express my feelings towards the book, I would like to bring to the previous reviewer's attention that Imran Khan is not Indian, but Pakistani. Yes he is from the Indian SubContinent, but not from India.

I feel that this book most definately showed a vulnerable side of Diana. In my opinion she was always looking for some type of acceptance and happiness in life and just when she was so close to getting what she wanted, she was gone. This book is a very well written and sensitive account of Diana's last love and I thoroughly enjoyed reading about that part of her life not many people had known.

The most sensitively written book so far about Diana, 08 Aug 2000
This is the most sensitively written book so far about Princess Diana, showing her as a complete and whole person seen through the eyes of her different friends. This tells the story of her last love, Dr. Hasnat Khan, a heart surgeon and a great man, whom most people will never have heard of, but who gave Diana true happiness in the last two years of her life. This book is 100% factual. Dr. Khan was Diana's last love with whom she found this pleasurable experience reciprocated for the first time in her life without any affectations.

This is definitely a book to be read by all seeking the truth about Diana's final years and who want to read the detailed facts of one of the greatest love stories kept under wraps until now.

compelling read, 07 Aug 2000
This book has given me the greatest insight into Diana as a person. I feel I have been told the truth about one chapter of her life. Kate Snell's journalistic perception of what the reader would find compelling is outstanding. Many people have commented "have we not heard enough about Diana?" or "do we not know everything there is to know about her?" This book defies both arguments. If more publications like the standard of this one emerge then people will be given an accurate insight into Diana's private persona. I agree with the author that Diana was only beginning to embark on the most positive stage of her life. This book has brought to history the core essence of her learning curve, on how to truly give and receive, the love she always sought.

An eye-opening and undeniably thought provoking read, 27 Jul 2008
I've always had my suspcisions that Diana's death was more than a mere accident - and have been constantly derided by those who challenge my opinion. This is THE book that everyone should read with an open mind - and then make their decision. All that remains are far too many unanswered questions and this is still to my mind an unsolved case. The author writes in a pragmatic and unbiased manner, presenting the evidence of which I would imagine the public remain blissfully unaware, but which must be in the public domain.

Neither unique, nor astounding, 13 Oct 2007
The book's backcover blurts that the author uses «unique contacts in the secretive worlds of intelligence and royalty», but you and I have read so many magazine articles and books with leaks from intelligence sources and rivers of mud from royalty close friends, servants, and bodyguards, that the book could not be defended on that merit alone.

It also claims to be «astounding [for] blowing the lid off the secrets the Establishment does not want us to know», but that's not true for Al Fayed Senior and plenty of journalists have exposed that and more, a good number of times, even quoting people that this book also cites as sources.

I made myself a duty to read first A Royal Duty (Paul Burrel, 2003) and listening to The Bodyguard's Story (Trevor Rees-Jones 2000), plusa few others, as well as to the grieving father's accusations and the French and English authorities official reports (as far as these have been made public). Naturally I made mental notes of an unexplained point here, a surprising inuendo there, a gross fact overlooked elsewhere. I am not paid to keep tabs on unexplained facts in car crashes, security videotapes that appear and disappear, and relations between who was at the scene of the murder, sorry, the accident when Diana and Dodi (and please do not forget, Monsieur Henri Paul) died.

The merit of this book is that it exposes in a clear, matter-of-fact (at times even irritating) way a possible link of persons and events, through time and space, until they sort of meet at fatal pilar 13, Alma Tunnel, Paris, on the fateful 31 August 1997. The book makes clear that fate did not play a part in this tragedy, that every step of the «actors» was logical per se, and names the people and the institutions that are to blame. Like in some of Agatha Chistie's crime murders, you may end up thinking this is a bit far fetched, but on second reading you realise that the Author did not let a stone unturned, and you can not explain ALL the facts and events in a more logical way.

It makes for fascinating reading - and very, very disturbing to people who still accept the idea that we are living in a law abiding world.

To reach 5 stars the book should have been longer and spell out in dense footnotes it's sources. Not that I doubt things and sources are true, as I remember having read them first place in the world media.

It's nonsense, 18 Oct 2005
If you are a member of the Cult of Diana, who believes Diana was a fairy tale princessvictim of the royal family, you'll like this book. If you are looking for balanced unbiased reporting, look elsewhere.

Those who tend to fall for conspiracy theories will no doubt already believe this one. Others will see that this book presents no real evidence of any plots.

an excellent insight into the truth..., 30 Jun 2005
this book gives such an excellent insight into the sad life of Diana and all she had to endure from the royal family,also a very indepth account of the lead upto and events following her assassination.

I love That Book, 08 Dec 2007
I love that book! Please will be sending it to me by post? Will i sending you my address home?
With respect from,
Diana

A nice tribute, 09 Jan 2004
Like much of the rest of the world, I was captivated by then-Lady Diana Spencer as she became known to the world through her association with Prince Charles, and I followed the developments with interest through the build-up to the royal wedding, the early marriage, the difficult years, and finally, Diana's tragic death in Paris in 1997. Her death was a stunning blow to many; one is reminded of the song 'you don't know what you've got 'till it's gone', for the world seemed to stop for the tragedy, which is still being played out in various sectors to this day.

There really was a fairy-tale aspect to Diana's life – she was always larger than life, and being perhaps the most photogenic royal of all time, every newspaper, periodical and media outlet wanted to be on hand to document her every move. This was certainly no fairy-tale existence for her, as she recounted in various ways to her few friends; one will likely never know the complete story of her life and death, but there are enough strands about that one can piece together happy times and sad times.

This particular book is one of the many that appeared shortly after her death, as people everywhere scrambled to get a last remembrance or memorial of Diana, as if her death would stop the production and sale of her story and image. It has many of the 'standard' photographs one has come to expect in any royal-family or Diana book – pictures well known now around the world from her childhood, courtship, marriage, and funeral.

The book is divided into six primary sections: Diana's Early Life; Diana and Charles; Diana the Devoted Mother; Diana, Queen of Hearts; Diana and Friends; and finally, Goodbye England's Rose. Here there is a very basic history, essentially free of controversy and strife, recounting merely the basic facts with stoicism tinted with a bit of sadness of the break-up of the world's most famous marriage. The photographs include the famous balcony scenes after the wedding, Diana alone in front of the Taj Mahal (a symbol of great love from another royal husband), Diana with her sons, and finally, pictures of the funeral and the island in the Spencer estate.

It is sad to look back after these many years at the glamourous pictures, realising the back-story that was taking place at the time. I collected royal books for many years prior to this, and this is not an exceptional book either in content or in style, but is rather made exceptional by the subject, Diana herself, and the obvious care the author (a correspondent of Independent Television Network in Britain) and compilers devoted in bringing things so quickly to the public.

More will be written of Diana, surely, but the record of Diana must certainly be a visual one, complete with photographs, and this collection represents many of the best.

One of two favorite Diana biographies, 24 Mar 2008
The other is: Sarah Bradford's biography of Diana. (I also liked Ken Wharfe's memoir very much.)

Ms. Bedell-Smith digs deep and sometimes unsympathetically into the life of Diana, Princess of Wales. However, I think for the most part she is objective about Diana, not objectionable -- in other words, she tells Diana's story as it was, not as we might WISH it was. Diana had her bad points. She was self-absorbed at times; manipulative; involved her boys a little too much into her personal problems; impulsive. In some ways she hurt the Royal family, yet she also breathed new life into the old institution.

Ms. Bedell-Smith is also right on target about Diana's relationship with Dodi Fayed. It was a terrible step backward for her, and quite simply, her actions all during the month of August 1997 (with hindsight) clearly point to her confusion and unhappiness, instead of joy and confidence.



A Very Different Perspective!, 06 Jan 2004
Most of the Diana books I have read have been complimentary on Diana to the point where they reveal nothing but the authors admiration of her. Kate Snell seems to have approached Diana from a perspective of being totally honest and, therefore, revealing the human aspects of Diana without her own personal opinions clouding the facts. In places this book is so honest about the human side of Diana that it reveals her behaviour which could at times be cruel, selfish and calculating. In contrast, I found the Paul Burrell book quite cloying, clouded, one-sided and it revealed very little! The story of Diana and Hasnat is probably one of the greatest love tragedies of all time, but little was known of it until now. Dodi has been given far too much credit as being her 'last love' and this book totally blows that claim out of the water. Until now, nobody probably realised that Hasnat was such an important figure in Diana's life, mostly due to the fact that he is a private man who has courted no publicity whatsoever since her death. One thing this book does make you think is that Hasnat, wherever he is now, has probably had to live with a massive burden of guilt since Diana's death. It seems 100% certain that, had Hasnat not ended the relationship, Diana would never have been in Paris with Dodi that night.

An interesting read for anyone who read the papers, 31 Jul 2002
At first I was dubious about reading this book, suspecting it to be yet another text riding on the waves of media sensationalism for profit. I was pleasantly surprised.

This is no gossip plug. Rather it is a somewhat unforeseen account of Diana's life, written with due sensitivity and respect. Using some of her closest confidents, this book exposes a very different image of Diana to the one many of us have gained from media representation, particularly in accounts leading up to her death. It not only highlights the context behind some of the much publicised pain that Diana experienced in her life, but also shows how, despite all, this woman was able to maintain some strengths. What a terrible shame that, being happy with the man she loved was made so difficult by her fame, and as things could have become easier she had to meet such an untimely end.

Excellent book, 20 Oct 2000
Before I go on and express my feelings towards the book, I would like to bring to the previous reviewer's attention that Imran Khan is not Indian, but Pakistani. Yes he is from the Indian SubContinent, but not from India.

I feel that this book most definately showed a vulnerable side of Diana. In my opinion she was always looking for some type of acceptance and happiness in life and just when she was so close to getting what she wanted, she was gone. This book is a very well written and sensitive account of Diana's last love and I thoroughly enjoyed reading about that part of her life not many people had known.

The most sensitively written book so far about Diana, 08 Aug 2000
This is the most sensitively written book so far about Princess Diana, showing her as a complete and whole person seen through the eyes of her different friends. This tells the story of her last love, Dr. Hasnat Khan, a heart surgeon and a great man, whom most people will never have heard of, but who gave Diana true happiness in the last two years of her life. This book is 100% factual. Dr. Khan was Diana's last love with whom she found this pleasurable experience reciprocated for the first time in her life without any affectations.

This is definitely a book to be read by all seeking the truth about Diana's final years and who want to read the detailed facts of one of the greatest love stories kept under wraps until now.

compelling read, 07 Aug 2000
This book has given me the greatest insight into Diana as a person. I feel I have been told the truth about one chapter of her life. Kate Snell's journalistic perception of what the reader would find compelling is outstanding. Many people have commented "have we not heard enough about Diana?" or "do we not know everything there is to know about her?" This book defies both arguments. If more publications like the standard of this one emerge then people will be given an accurate insight into Diana's private persona. I agree with the author that Diana was only beginning to embark on the most positive stage of her life. This book has brought to history the core essence of her learning curve, on how to truly give and receive, the love she always sought.

An Eye Opener, 14 Mar 2006
Although the book is more about conspiracies in general than Diana specifically, it is a great eye opener for anyone who thinks there are puppet masters behind the scenes pulling all the strings. I'll never look at the House of Windsor in the same light again, that's for sure. The research is far reaching and conclusions are sounded out with a host of possible explanations. Nice work! Worth the read if you like conspiracies. If you're a skeptic, then you'll probably always be one, so don't bother.

One of Worst Book I've Ever Read, 27 Feb 2006
I have to agree with the reader from Philadelphia. This book is nothing but a mishmash of implausible conspiracy theories. The first half of the book was bad enough. There the authors spend several chapters quoting sources who conveniently wanted to remain anonymous. Even worse, a lot of those sources had nothing to do with Diana's supposed assassination, but "knew people who were," or "thought this is how it happened." And of course, it was all the fault of the big, bad military/industrial complex, the same people who killed JFK, Martin Luther King, and...John Lennon?? Oh, please. If you didn't know these authors were journalists, you'd swear you were reading the script for an episode of The X-Files.

The second half was even worse, all about ancient bloodlines and how Diana is the true heir. I'm not kidding, they trace it all the way back to biblical times and link Diana to the Priory of Sion, the Knights Templar, etc. I actually laughed because I thought I was reading The Da Vinci Code all over again.

Do yourself a favor. Save your money and buy a good biography of Diana instead. I highly reccommend Paul Burrell's book (Diana's former butler and confidant).

Princess Diana The Hidden Evidence, 18 Apr 2005
I have just finished reading this book and I would not advise anyone to bother buying this book, after chapter one Princess Diana is merely quoted in part, this book is mostly the authors way of using Princess Diana to sell books, it is not about her assasination, it is mainly the authors giving their opinions of the CIA M15/6 and the British Royal Family not in a favourable manner either. Using Princess Dianas death in order to discredit organisations is totally wrong.

They Killed Her....NOT!, 03 Jul 2003
This is nothing but a bunch of lame brain conspiracy theories aimed at the crowd that wants to believe that Princess Diana was a victim right to the end. You'd have to be incredibly naive, paranoid, and/or stupid to believe the ideas put forth in this book. The only people who will find this book worthwhile are those who will be easily convinced because they want to believe these wild fantasies. Accidents happen-even to princesses.

Superb investigative journalism!, 19 May 2002
I can only echo the sentiments of the other reviewers on this page, in that I believe everyone should read this book. Superb investigative journalism. Well done to the authors and good luck in your efforts to force a public inquiry. It's high time the truth about Diana's death was exposed for all to see. Truly breathtaking piece of work.

An eye-opening and undeniably thought provoking read, 27 Jul 2008
I've always had my suspcisions that Diana's death was more than a mere accident - and have been constantly derided by those who challenge my opinion. This is THE book that everyone should read with an open mind - and then make their decision. All that remains are far too many unanswered questions and this is still to my mind an unsolved case. The author writes in a pragmatic and unbiased manner, presenting the evidence of which I would imagine the public remain blissfully unaware, but which must be in the public domain.

Neither unique, nor astounding, 13 Oct 2007
The book's backcover blurts that the author uses «unique contacts in the secretive worlds of intelligence and royalty», but you and I have read so many magazine articles and books with leaks from intelligence sources and rivers of mud from royalty close friends, servants, and bodyguards, that the book could not be defended on that merit alone.

It also claims to be «astounding [for] blowing the lid off the secrets the Establishment does not want us to know», but that's not true for Al Fayed Senior and plenty of journalists have exposed that and more, a good number of times, even quoting people that this book also cites as sources.

I made myself a duty to read first A Royal Duty (Paul Burrel, 2003) and listening to The Bodyguard's Story (Trevor Rees-Jones 2000), plusa few others, as well as to the grieving father's accusations and the French and English authorities official reports (as far as these have been made public). Naturally I made mental notes of an unexplained point here, a surprising inuendo there, a gross fact overlooked elsewhere. I am not paid to keep tabs on unexplained facts in car crashes, security videotapes that appear and disappear, and relations between who was at the scene of the murder, sorry, the accident when Diana and Dodi (and please do not forget, Monsieur Henri Paul) died.

The merit of this book is that it exposes in a clear, matter-of-fact (at times even irritating) way a possible link of persons and events, through time and space, until they sort of meet at fatal pilar 13, Alma Tunnel, Paris, on the fateful 31 August 1997. The book makes clear that fate did not play a part in this tragedy, that every step of the «actors» was logical per se, and names the people and the institutions that are to blame. Like in some of Agatha Chistie's crime murders, you may end up thinking this is a bit far fetched, but on second reading you realise that the Author did not let a stone unturned, and you can not explain ALL the facts and events in a more logical way.

It makes for fascinating reading - and very, very disturbing to people who still accept the idea that we are living in a law abiding world.

To reach 5 stars the book should have been longer and spell out in dense footnotes it's sources. Not that I doubt things and sources are true, as I remember having read them first place in the world media.

It's nonsense, 18 Oct 2005
If you are a member of the Cult of Diana, who believes Diana was a fairy tale princessvictim of the royal family, you'll like this book. If you are looking for balanced unbiased reporting, look elsewhere.

Those who tend to fall for conspiracy theories will no doubt already believe this one. Others will see that this book presents no real evidence of any plots.

an excellent insight into the truth..., 30 Jun 2005
this book gives such an excellent insight into the sad life of Diana and all she had to endure from the royal family,also a very indepth account of the lead upto and events following her assassination.

I love That Book, 08 Dec 2007
I love that book! Please will be sending it to me by post? Will i sending you my address home?
With respect from,
Diana

A nice tribute, 09 Jan 2004
Like much of the rest of the world, I was captivated by then-Lady Diana Spencer as she became known to the world through her association with Prince Charles, and I followed the developments with interest through the build-up to the royal wedding, the early marriage, the difficult years, and finally, Diana's tragic death in Paris in 1997. Her death was a stunning blow to many; one is reminded of the song 'you don't know what you've got 'till it's gone', for the world seemed to stop for the tragedy, which is still being played out in various sectors to this day.

There really was a fairy-tale aspect to Diana's life – she was always larger than life, and being perhaps the most photogenic royal of all time, every newspaper, periodical and media outlet wanted to be on hand to document her every move. This was certainly no fairy-tale existence for her, as she recounted in various ways to her few friends; one will likely never know the complete story of her life and death, but there are enough strands about that one can piece together happy times and sad times.

This particular book is one of the many that appeared shortly after her death, as people everywhere scrambled to get a last remembrance or memorial of Diana, as if her death would stop the production and sale of her story and image. It has many of the 'standard' photographs one has come to expect in any royal-family or Diana book – pictures well known now around the world from her childhood, courtship, marriage, and funeral.

The book is divided into six primary sections: Diana's Early Life; Diana and Charles; Diana the Devoted Mother; Diana, Queen of Hearts; Diana and Friends; and finally, Goodbye England's Rose. Here there is a very basic history, essentially free of controversy and strife, recounting merely the basic facts with stoicism tinted with a bit of sadness of the break-up of the world's most famous marriage. The photographs include the famous balcony scenes after the wedding, Diana alone in front of the Taj Mahal (a symbol of great love from another royal husband), Diana with her sons, and finally, pictures of the funeral and the island in the Spencer estate.

It is sad to look back after these many years at the glamourous pictures, realising the back-story that was taking place at the time. I collected royal books for many years prior to this, and this is not an exceptional book either in content or in style, but is rather made exceptional by the subject, Diana herself, and the obvious care the author (a correspondent of Independent Television Network in Britain) and compilers devoted in bringing things so quickly to the public.

More will be written of Diana, surely, but the record of Diana must certainly be a visual one, complete with photographs, and this collection represents many of the best.

One of two favorite Diana biographies, 24 Mar 2008
The other is: Sarah Bradford's biography of Diana. (I also liked Ken Wharfe's memoir very much.)

Ms. Bedell-Smith digs deep and sometimes unsympathetically into the life of Diana, Princess of Wales. However, I think for the most part she is objective about Diana, not objectionable -- in other words, she tells Diana's story as it was, not as we might WISH it was. Diana had her bad points. She was self-absorbed at times; manipulative; involved her boys a little too much into her personal problems; impulsive. In some ways she hurt the Royal family, yet she also breathed new life into the old institution.

Ms. Bedell-Smith is also right on target about Diana's relationship with Dodi Fayed. It was a terrible step backward for her, and quite simply, her actions all during the month of August 1997 (with hindsight) clearly point to her confusion and unhappiness, instead of joy and confidence.



A Very Different Perspective!, 06 Jan 2004
Most of the Diana books I have read have been complimentary on Diana to the point where they reveal nothing but the authors admiration of her. Kate Snell seems to have approached Diana from a perspective of being totally honest and, therefore, revealing the human aspects of Diana without her own personal opinions clouding the facts. In places this book is so honest about the human side of Diana that it reveals her behaviour which could at times be cruel, selfish and calculating. In contrast, I found the Paul Burrell book quite cloying, clouded, one-sided and it revealed very little! The story of Diana and Hasnat is probably one of the greatest love tragedies of all time, but little was known of it until now. Dodi has been given far too much credit as being her 'last love' and this book totally blows that claim out of the water. Until now, nobody probably realised that Hasnat was such an important figure in Diana's life, mostly due to the fact that he is a private man who has courted no publicity whatsoever since her death. One thing this book does make you think is that Hasnat, wherever he is now, has probably had to live with a massive burden of guilt since Diana's death. It seems 100% certain that, had Hasnat not ended the relationship, Diana would never have been in Paris with Dodi that night.

An interesting read for anyone who read the papers, 31 Jul 2002
At first I was dubious about reading this book, suspecting it to be yet another text riding on the waves of media sensationalism for profit. I was pleasantly surprised.

This is no gossip plug. Rather it is a somewhat unforeseen account of Diana's life, written with due sensitivity and respect. Using some of her closest confidents, this book exposes a very different image of Diana to the one many of us have gained from media representation, particularly in accounts leading up to her death. It not only highlights the context behind some of the much publicised pain that Diana experienced in her life, but also shows how, despite all, this woman was able to maintain some strengths. What a terrible shame that, being happy with the man she loved was made so difficult by her fame, and as things could have become easier she had to meet such an untimely end.

Excellent book, 20 Oct 2000
Before I go on and express my feelings towards the book, I would like to bring to the previous reviewer's attention that Imran Khan is not Indian, but Pakistani. Yes he is from the Indian SubContinent, but not from India.

I feel that this book most definately showed a vulnerable side of Diana. In my opinion she was always looking for some type of acceptance and happiness in life and just when she was so close to getting what she wanted, she was gone. This book is a very well written and sensitive account of Diana's last love and I thoroughly enjoyed reading about that part of her life not many people had known.

The most sensitively written book so far about Diana, 08 Aug 2000
This is the most sensitively written book so far about Princess Diana, showing her as a complete and whole person seen through the eyes of her different friends. This tells the story of her last love, Dr. Hasnat Khan, a heart surgeon and a great man, whom most people will never have heard of, but who gave Diana true happiness in the last two years of her life. This book is 100% factual. Dr. Khan was Diana's last love with whom she found this pleasurable experience reciprocated for the first time in her life without any affectations.

This is definitely a book to be read by all seeking the truth about Diana's final years and who want to read the detailed facts of one of the greatest love stories kept under wraps until now.

compelling read, 07 Aug 2000
This book has given me the greatest insight into Diana as a person. I feel I have been told the truth about one chapter of her life. Kate Snell's journalistic perception of what the reader would find compelling is outstanding. Many people have commented "have we not heard enough about Diana?" or "do we not know everything there is to know about her?" This book defies both arguments. If more publications like the standard of this one emerge then people will be given an accurate insight into Diana's private persona. I agree with the author that Diana was only beginning to embark on the most positive stage of her life. This book has brought to history the core essence of her learning curve, on how to truly give and receive, the love she always sought.

An Eye Opener, 14 Mar 2006
Although the book is more about conspiracies in general than Diana specifically, it is a great eye opener for anyone who thinks there are puppet masters behind the scenes pulling all the strings. I'll never look at the House of Windsor in the same light again, that's for sure. The research is far reaching and conclusions are sounded out with a host of possible explanations. Nice work! Worth the read if you like conspiracies. If you're a skeptic, then you'll probably always be one, so don't bother.

One of Worst Book I've Ever Read, 27 Feb 2006
I have to agree with the reader from Philadelphia. This book is nothing but a mishmash of implausible conspiracy theories. The first half of the book was bad enough. There the authors spend several chapters quoting sources who conveniently wanted to remain anonymous. Even worse, a lot of those sources had nothing to do with Diana's supposed assassination, but "knew people who were," or "thought this is how it happened." And of course, it was all the fault of the big, bad military/industrial complex, the same people who killed JFK, Martin Luther King, and...John Lennon?? Oh, please. If you didn't know these authors were journalists, you'd swear you were reading the script for an episode of The X-Files.

The second half was even worse, all about ancient bloodlines and how Diana is the true heir. I'm not kidding, they trace it all the way back to biblical times and link Diana to the Priory of Sion, the Knights Templar, etc. I actually laughed because I thought I was reading The Da Vinci Code all over again.

Do yourself a favor. Save your money and buy a good biography of Diana instead. I highly reccommend Paul Burrell's book (Diana's former butler and confidant).

Princess Diana The Hidden Evidence, 18 Apr 2005
I have just finished reading this book and I would not advise anyone to bother buying this book, after chapter one Princess Diana is merely quoted in part, this book is mostly the authors way of using Princess Diana to sell books, it is not about her assasination, it is mainly the authors giving their opinions of the CIA M15/6 and the British Royal Family not in a favourable manner either. Using Princess Dianas death in order to discredit organisations is totally wrong.

They Killed Her....NOT!, 03 Jul 2003
This is nothing but a bunch of lame brain conspiracy theories aimed at the crowd that wants to believe that Princess Diana was a victim right to the end. You'd have to be incredibly naive, paranoid, and/or stupid to believe the ideas put forth in this book. The only people who will find this book worthwhile are those who will be easily convinced because they want to believe these wild fantasies. Accidents happen-even to princesses.

Superb investigative journalism!, 19 May 2002
I can only echo the sentiments of the other reviewers on this page, in that I believe everyone should read this book. Superb investigative journalism. Well done to the authors and good luck in your efforts to force a public inquiry. It's high time the truth about Diana's death was exposed for all to see. Truly breathtaking piece of work.

Excellent reading, 07 Feb 2004
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I gained a tremendous amount of respect for Mrs. Shand-Kydd. It's easy to see how Princess Diana aquired her strength and character. What an extraordinary life. I highly recommend this book...I did not want it to end!

The other side of the story...., 30 Oct 2003
Well, well, well! This book certainly tells the other side of the story to Burrell. It appears Frances begged Diana to get a scambler to stop Burrell intercepting their telephone calls, and that Diana wanted rid of him as her butler. And then Burrell tried to manipulate things to his own benefit. Page turning stuff. Frances comes across as a dignified and honorable lady, who has been bullied and bashed, and I really rather like her. A courageous person who stands up for herself and her family - unlike some other people we could mention!

A Page Turner, 29 Oct 2003
An exciting book, in which we are swept through the life of a truly interesting woman, learning amazing things about her and even more amazing things about her famous daughter, the Princess of Wales, things that only a mother could reveal. We hear about Frances' reservations about Diana's betrothal and marriage to Prince Charles, and feel for her as she describes the night Diana was killed.

Not only do we gain an insight into the life of a wealthy aristocratic woman from a famous aristocratic family, but we learn more about the Royal Family, from a new and as yet unheard perspective.

This book reads fluently - we aren't besieged with boring wedges of history. It comes across as well researched, not merely conjecture and there are some great photos.

I found it gripping, and unusually for a biography, felt I did not want to put it down.

A delightful read. Go buy it for your Mum for Christmas.

Mum's the Word, 14 Oct 2003
If you thought you'd read everything on Diana you are wrong! This is a fascinating book, and shows the power of the Monarchy over anyone stepping out of line. It's intriguing to think what might have become of Diana, and here we get a real sense - from the one person who knew her better than anyone else - her own mother. Loved the bit about Frances' almost idyllic childhood which sets it up nicely for the betrayals that happen later. It's very well done.

An eye-opening and undeniably thought provoking read, 27 Jul 2008
I've always had my suspcisions that Diana's death was more than a mere accident - and have been constantly derided by those who challenge my opinion. This is THE book that everyone should read with an open mind - and then make their decision. All that remains are far too many unanswered questions and this is still to my mind an unsolved case. The author writes in a pragmatic and unbiased manner, presenting the evidence of which I would imagine the public remain blissfully unaware, but which must be in the public domain.

Neither unique, nor astounding, 13 Oct 2007
The book's backcover blurts that the author uses «unique contacts in the secretive worlds of intelligence and royalty», but you and I have read so many magazine articles and books with leaks from intelligence sources and rivers of mud from royalty close friends, servants, and bodyguards, that the book could not be defended on that merit alone.

It also claims to be «astounding [for] blowing the lid off the secrets the Establishment does not want us to know», but that's not true for Al Fayed Senior and plenty of journalists have exposed that and more, a good number of times, even quoting people that this book also cites as sources.

I made myself a duty to read first A Royal Duty (Paul Burrel, 2003) and listening to The Bodyguard's Story (Trevor Rees-Jones 2000), plusa few others, as well as to the grieving father's accusations and the French and English authorities official reports (as far as these have been made public). Naturally I made mental notes of an unexplained point here, a surprising inuendo there, a gross fact overlooked elsewhere. I am not paid to keep tabs on unexplained facts in car crashes, security videotapes that appear and disappear, and relations between who was at the scene of the murder, sorry, the accident when Diana and Dodi (and please do not forget, Monsieur Henri Paul) died.

The merit of this book is that it exposes in a clear, matter-of-fact (at times even irritating) way a possible link of persons and events, through time and space, until they sort of meet at fatal pilar 13, Alma Tunnel, Paris, on the fateful 31 August 1997. The book makes clear that fate did not play a part in this tragedy, that every step of the «actors» was logical per se, and names the people and the institutions that are to blame. Like in some of Agatha Chistie's crime murders, you may end up thinking this is a bit far fetched, but on second reading you realise that the Author did not let a stone unturned, and you can not explain ALL the facts and events in a more logical way.

It makes for fascinating reading - and very, very disturbing to people who still accept the idea that we are living in a law abiding world.

To reach 5 stars the book should have been longer and spell out in dense footnotes it's sources. Not that I doubt things and sources are true, as I remember having read them first place in the world media.

It's nonsense, 18 Oct 2005
If you are a member of the Cult of Diana, who believes Diana was a fairy tale princessvictim of the royal family, you'll like this book. If you are looking for balanced unbiased reporting, look elsewhere.

Those who tend to fall for conspiracy theories will no doubt already believe this one. Others will see that this book presents no real evidence of any plots.

an excellent insight into the truth..., 30 Jun 2005
this book gives such an excellent insight into the sad life of Diana and all she had to endure from the royal family,also a very indepth account of the lead upto and events following her assassination.

I love That Book, 08 Dec 2007
I love that book! Please will be sending it to me by post? Will i sending you my address home?
With respect from,
Diana

A nice tribute, 09 Jan 2004
Like much of the rest of the world, I was captivated by then-Lady Diana Spencer as she became known to the world through her association with Prince Charles, and I followed the developments with interest through the build-up to the royal wedding, the early marriage, the difficult years, and finally, Diana's tragic death in Paris in 1997. Her death was a stunning blow to many; one is reminded of the song 'you don't know what you've got 'till it's gone', for the world seemed to stop for the tragedy, which is still being played out in various sectors to this day.

There really was a fairy-tale aspect to Diana's life – she was always larger than life, and being perhaps the most photogenic royal of all time, every newspaper, periodical and media outlet wanted to be on hand to document her every move. This was certainly no fairy-tale existence for her, as she recounted in various ways to her few friends; one will likely never know the complete story of her life and death, but there are enough strands about that one can piece together happy times and sad times.

This particular book is one of the many that appeared shortly after her death, as people everywhere scrambled to get a last remembrance or memorial of Diana, as if her death would stop the production and sale of her story and image. It has many of the 'standard' photographs one has come to expect in any royal-family or Diana book – pictures well known now around the world from her childhood, courtship, marriage, and funeral.

The book is divided into six primary sections: Diana's Early Life; Diana and Charles; Diana the Devoted Mother; Diana, Queen of Hearts; Diana and Friends; and finally, Goodbye England's Rose. Here there is a very basic history, essentially free of controversy and strife, recounting merely the basic facts with stoicism tinted with a bit of sadness of the break-up of the world's most famous marriage. The photographs include the famous balcony scenes after the wedding, Diana alone in front of the Taj Mahal (a symbol of great love from another royal husband), Diana with her sons, and finally, pictures of the funeral and the island in the Spencer estate.

It is sad to look back after these many years at the glamourous pictures, realising the back-story that was taking place at the time. I collected royal books for many years prior to this, and this is not an exceptional book either in content or in style, but is rather made exceptional by the subject, Diana herself, and the obvious care the author (a correspondent of Independent Television Network in Britain) and compilers devoted in bringing things so quickly to the public.

More will be written of Diana, surely, but the record of Diana must certainly be a visual one, complete with photographs, and this collection represents many of the best.

One of two favorite Diana biographies, 24 Mar 2008
The other is: Sarah Bradford's biography of Diana. (I also liked Ken Wharfe's memoir very much.)

Ms. Bedell-Smith digs deep and sometimes unsympathetically into the life of Diana, Princess of Wales. However, I think for the most part she is objective about Diana, not objectionable -- in other words, she tells Diana's story as it was, not as we might WISH it was. Diana had her bad points. She was self-absorbed at times; manipulative; involved her boys a little too much into her personal problems; impulsive. In some ways she hurt the Royal family, yet she also breathed new life into the old institution.

Ms. Bedell-Smith is also right on target about Diana's relationship with Dodi Fayed. It was a terrible step backward for her, and quite simply, her actions all during the month of August 1997 (with hindsight) clearly point to her confusion and unhappiness, instead of joy and confidence.



A Very Different Perspective!, 06 Jan 2004
Most of the Diana books I have read have been complimentary on Diana to the point where they reveal nothing but the authors admiration of her. Kate Snell seems to have approached Diana from a perspective of being totally honest and, therefore, revealing the human aspects of Diana without her own personal opinions clouding the facts. In places this book is so honest about the human side of Diana that it reveals her behaviour which could at times be cruel, selfish and calculating. In contrast, I found the Paul Burrell book quite cloying, clouded, one-sided and it revealed very little! The story of Diana and Hasnat is probably one of the greatest love tragedies of all time, but little was known of it until now. Dodi has been given far too much credit as being her 'last love' and this book totally blows that claim out of the water. Until now, nobody probably realised that Hasnat was such an important figure in Diana's life, mostly due to the fact that he is a private man who has courted no publicity whatsoever since her death. One thing this book does make you think is that Hasnat, wherever he is now, has probably had to live with a massive burden of guilt since Diana's death. It seems 100% certain that, had Hasnat not ended the relationship, Diana would never have been in Paris with Dodi that night.

An interesting read for anyone who read the papers, 31 Jul 2002
At first I was dubious about reading this book, suspecting it to be yet another text riding on the waves of media sensationalism for profit. I was pleasantly surprised.

This is no gossip plug. Rather it is a somewhat unforeseen account of Diana's life, written with due sensitivity and respect. Using some of her closest confidents, this book exposes a very different image of Diana to the one many of us have gained from media representation, particularly in accounts leading up to her death. It not only highlights the context behind some of the much publicised pain that Diana experienced in her life, but also shows how, despite all, this woman was able to maintain some strengths. What a terrible shame that, being happy with the man she loved was made so difficult by her fame, and as things could have become easier she had to meet such an untimely end.

Excellent book, 20 Oct 2000
Before I go on and express my feelings towards the book, I would like to bring to the previous reviewer's attention that Imran Khan is not Indian, but Pakistani. Yes he is from the Indian SubContinent, but not from India.

I feel that this book most definately showed a vulnerable side of Diana. In my opinion she was always looking for some type of acceptance and happiness in life and just when she was so close to getting what she wanted, she was gone. This book is a very well written and sensitive account of Diana's last love and I thoroughly enjoyed reading about that part of her life not many people had known.

The most sensitively written book so far about Diana, 08 Aug 2000
This is the most sensitively written book so far about Princess Diana, showing her as a complete and whole person seen through the eyes of her different friends. This tells the story of her last love, Dr. Hasnat Khan, a heart surgeon and a great man, whom most people will never have heard of, but who gave Diana true happiness in the last two years of her life. This book is 100% factual. Dr. Khan was Diana's last love with whom she found this pleasurable experience reciprocated for the first time in her life without any affectations.

This is definitely a book to be read by all seeking the truth about Diana's final years and who want to read the detailed facts of one of the greatest love stories kept under wraps until now.

compelling read, 07 Aug 2000
This book has given me the greatest insight into Diana as a person. I feel I have been told the truth about one chapter of her life. Kate Snell's journalistic perception of what the reader would find compelling is outstanding. Many people have commented "have we not heard enough about Diana?" or "do we not know everything there is to know about her?" This book defies both arguments. If more publications like the standard of this one emerge then people will be given an accurate insight into Diana's private persona. I agree with the author that Diana was only beginning to embark on the most positive stage of her life. This book has brought to history the core essence of her learning curve, on how to truly give and receive, the love she always sought.

An Eye Opener, 14 Mar 2006
Although the book is more about conspiracies in general than Diana specifically, it is a great eye opener for anyone who thinks there are puppet masters behind the scenes pulling all the strings. I'll never look at the House of Windsor in the same light again, that's for sure. The research is far reaching and conclusions are sounded out with a host of possible explanations. Nice work! Worth the read if you like conspiracies. If you're a skeptic, then you'll probably always be one, so don't bother.

One of Worst Book I've Ever Read, 27 Feb 2006
I have to agree with the reader from Philadelphia. This book is nothing but a mishmash of implausible conspiracy theories. The first half of the book was bad enough. There the authors spend several chapters quoting sources who conveniently wanted to remain anonymous. Even worse, a lot of those sources had nothing to do with Diana's supposed assassination, but "knew people who were," or "thought this is how it happened." And of course, it was all the fault of the big, bad military/industrial complex, the same people who killed JFK, Martin Luther King, and...John Lennon?? Oh, please. If you didn't know these authors were journalists, you'd swear you were reading the script for an episode of The X-Files.

The second half was even worse, all about ancient bloodlines and how Diana is the true heir. I'm not kidding, they trace it all the way back to biblical times and link Diana to the Priory of Sion, the Knights Templar, etc. I actually laughed because I thought I was reading The Da Vinci Code all over again.

Do yourself a favor. Save your money and buy a good biography of Diana instead. I highly reccommend Paul Burrell's book (Diana's former butler and confidant).

Princess Diana The Hidden Evidence, 18 Apr 2005
I have just finished reading this book and I would not advise anyone to bother buying this book, after chapter one Princess Diana is merely quoted in part, this book is mostly the authors way of using Princess Diana to sell books, it is not about her assasination, it is mainly the authors giving their opinions of the CIA M15/6 and the British Royal Family not in a favourable manner either. Using Princess Dianas death in order to discredit organisations is totally wrong.

They Killed Her....NOT!, 03 Jul 2003
This is nothing but a bunch of lame brain conspiracy theories aimed at the crowd that wants to believe that Princess Diana was a victim right to the end. You'd have to be incredibly naive, paranoid, and/or stupid to believe the ideas put forth in this book. The only people who will find this book worthwhile are those who will be easily convinced because they want to believe these wild fantasies. Accidents happen-even to princesses.

Superb investigative journalism!, 19 May 2002
I can only echo the sentiments of the other reviewers on this page, in that I believe everyone should read this book. Superb investigative journalism. Well done to the authors and good luck in your efforts to force a public inquiry. It's high time the truth about Diana's death was exposed for all to see. Truly breathtaking piece of work.

Excellent reading, 07 Feb 2004
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I gained a tremendous amount of respect for Mrs. Shand-Kydd. It's easy to see how Princess Diana aquired her strength and character. What an extraordinary life. I highly recommend this book...I did not want it to end!

The other side of the story...., 30 Oct 2003
Well, well, well! This book certainly tells the other side of the story to Burrell. It appears Frances begged Diana to get a scambler to stop Burrell intercepting their telephone calls, and that Diana wanted rid of him as her butler. And then Burrell tried to manipulate things to his own benefit. Page turning stuff. Frances comes across as a dignified and honorable lady, who has been bullied and bashed, and I really rather like her. A courageous person who stands up for herself and her family - unlike some other people we could mention!

A Page Turner, 29 Oct 2003
An exciting book, in which we are swept through the life of a truly interesting woman, learning amazing things about her and even more amazing things about her famous daughter, the Princess of Wales, things that only a mother could reveal. We hear about Frances' reservations about Diana's betrothal and marriage to Prince Charles, and feel for her as she describes the night Diana was killed.

Not only do we gain an insight into the life of a wealthy aristocratic woman from a famous aristocratic family, but we learn more about the Royal Family, from a new and as yet unheard perspective.

This book reads fluently - we aren't besieged with boring wedges of history. It comes across as well researched, not merely conjecture and there are some great photos.

I found it gripping, and unusually for a biography, felt I did not want to put it down.

A delightful read. Go buy it for your Mum for Christmas.

Mum's the Word, 14 Oct 2003
If you thought you'd read everything on Diana you are wrong! This is a fascinating book, and shows the power of the Monarchy over anyone stepping out of line. It's intriguing to think what might have become of Diana, and here we get a real sense - from the one person who knew her better than anyone else - her own mother. Loved the bit about Frances' almost idyllic childhood which sets it up nicely for the betrayals that happen later. It's very well done.

A Lasting Legacy , 25 Oct 2008
However much some of the other Royals may wish she would just "disappear," Diana is going nowhere, and her life and legacy continue to cast a shadow over the experiences of those she left behind.

She was an imperfect person, the difference being that her imperfections were exposed on a world stage. Many people have made the kinds of mistakes she did; she just made them in public. However, she will always have as her legacy the fact that she was the mother of the future King, and that's what this book is really about. William and Harry have a hard act to follow in the charitable work their mother performed, and a difficult situation to fix in the mess that their father has made of "the Firm's" private business. Both boys have made missteps, as young people are wont to do, but they are very much Diana's Boys, and are trying hard to grow into their roles.

Christopher Andersen is clearly sympathetic to Diana, and is amused by Charles' sense of entitlement and confusion as to why the woman with whom he cheated on his wife wouldn't be accepted with open arms by everyone they meet. Some of his facts are simply incorrect (The Queen was married in 1947, not 1950, for instance). Overall, however, this is an eye-opening and interesting primer on the years since that awful day in 1997, and an idea of how Diana's memory might continue to influence the Royal Family in the future.

LAUGHABLE, 20 Sep 2007
This book is worth the money as a comedy read. It is so innacurate, it is laughable. It is written for the American public - the kind of whom believe ENGLAND stands for the whole of the United KIngdom. Whether you are a royalist or not, the entire book is full of such laughable factual errors and implausible scenerios that it is an extremely bad advertisment for UK/US understanding. Check any modern history book for the dates the author gets wrong, and check your own common sense for the lies he makes up - to deceive and entrall the American (and world's) public.

If the author wishes to defend this my email is LlandudnoCDW@aol. com

An eye-opening and undeniably thought provoking read, 27 Jul 2008
I've always had my suspcisions that Diana's death was more than a mere accident - and have been constantly derided by those who challenge my opinion. This is THE book that everyone should read with an open mind - and then make their decision. All that remains are far too many unanswered questions and this is still to my mind an unsolved case. The author writes in a pragmatic and unbiased manner, presenting the evidence of which I would imagine the public remain blissfully unaware, but which must be in the public domain.

Neither unique, nor astounding, 13 Oct 2007
The book's backcover blurts that the author uses «unique contacts in the secretive worlds of intelligence and royalty», but you and I have read so many magazine articles and books with leaks from intelligence sources and rivers of mud from royalty close friends, servants, and bodyguards, that the book could not be defended on that merit alone.

It also claims to be «astounding [for] blowing the lid off the secrets the Establishment does not want us to know», but that's not true for Al Fayed Senior and plenty of journalists have exposed that and more, a good number of times, even quoting people that this book also cites as sources.

I made myself a duty to read first A Royal Duty (Paul Burrel, 2003) and listening to The Bodyguard's Story (Trevor Rees-Jones 2000), plusa few others, as well as to the grieving father's accusations and the French and English authorities official reports (as far as these have been made public). Naturally I made mental notes of an unexplained point here, a surprising inuendo there, a gross fact overlooked elsewhere. I am not paid to keep tabs on unexplained facts in car crashes, security videotapes that appear and disappear, and relations between who was at the scene of the murder, sorry, the accident when Diana and Dodi (and please do not forget, Monsieur Henri Paul) died.

The merit of this book is that it exposes in a clear, matter-of-fact (at times even irritating) way a possible link of persons and events, through time and space, until they sort of meet at fatal pilar 13, Alma Tunnel, Paris, on the fateful 31 August 1997. The book makes clear that fate did not play a part in this tragedy, that every step of the «actors» was logical per se, and names the people and the institutions that are to blame. Like in some of Agatha Chistie's crime murders, you may end up thinking this is a bit far fetched, but on second reading you realise that the Author did not let a stone unturned, and you can not explain ALL the facts and events in a more logical way.

It makes for fascinating reading - and very, very disturbing to people who still accept the idea that we are living in a law abiding world.

To reach 5 stars the book should have been longer and spell out in dense footnotes it's sources. Not that I doubt things and sources are true, as I remember having read them first place in the world media.

It's nonsense, 18 Oct 2005
If you are a member of the Cult of Diana, who believes Diana was a fairy tale princessvictim of the royal family, you'll like this book. If you are looking for balanced unbiased reporting, look elsewhere.

Those who tend to fall for conspiracy theories will no doubt already believe this one. Others will see that this book presents no real evidence of any plots.

an excellent insight into the truth..., 30 Jun 2005
this book gives such an excellent insight into the sad life of Diana and all she had to endure from the royal family,also a very indepth account of the lead upto and events following her assassination.

I love That Book, 08 Dec 2007
I love that book! Please will be sending it to me by post? Will i sending you my address home?
With respect from,
Diana

A nice tribute, 09 Jan 2004
Like much of the rest of the world, I was captivated by then-Lady Diana Spencer as she became known to the world through her association with Prince Charles, and I followed the developments with interest through the build-up to the royal wedding, the early marriage, the difficult years, and finally, Diana's tragic death in Paris in 1997. Her death was a stunning blow to many; one is reminded of the song 'you don't know what you've got 'till it's gone', for the world seemed to stop for the tragedy, which is still being played out in various sectors to this day.

There really was a fairy-tale aspect to Diana's life – she was always larger than life, and being perhaps the most photogenic royal of all time, every newspaper, periodical and media outlet wanted to be on hand to document her every move. This was certainly no fairy-tale existence for her, as she recounted in various ways to her few friends; one will likely never know the complete story of her life and death, but there are enough strands about that one can piece together happy times and sad times.

This particular book is one of the many that appeared shortly after her death, as people everywhere scrambled to get a last remembrance or memorial of Diana, as if her death would stop the production and sale of her story and image. It has many of the 'standard' photographs one has come to expect in any royal-family or Diana book – pictures well known now around the world from her childhood, courtship, marriage, and funeral.

The book is divided into six primary sections: Diana's Early Life; Diana and Charles; Diana the Devoted Mother; Diana, Queen of Hearts; Diana and Friends; and finally, Goodbye England's Rose. Here there is a very basic history, essentially free of controversy and strife, recounting merely the basic facts with stoicism tinted with a bit of sadness of the break-up of the world's most famous marriage. The photographs include the famous balcony scenes after the wedding, Diana alone in front of the Taj Mahal (a symbol of great love