Hodder swoops for 'unprecedented' Duke of Kent and Vickers collaboration

Hodder & Stoughton has swooped for an "unprecedented" collaboration between the Duke of Kent and royal historian Hugo Vickers, to be published in the Queen’s platinum jubilee year.

Publisher Rowena Webb and editorial consultant Tom Perrin bought world rights from Clare Alexander at Aitken Alexander Associates. A Royal Life will be published in hardback on 12th May 2022 and will feature "unique insights and memories" alongside photographs from the duke’s personal collection. 

Its synopsis reads: "The Duke of Kent has been at the centre of royal life since he was born in 1935. The elder son of Prince George (brother of King George VI), he is a grandson of King George V and Queen Mary, first cousin to the Queen and a great-great-grandson of Queen Victoria. On his mother, Princess Marina of Greece and Denmark’s side he is a cousin of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. 

"Guided by celebrated royal historian Hugo Vickers, the duke will reflect on the Queen’s remarkable 70-year reign for the platinum jubilee in 2022, relaying his personal experiences during its course. His father died in 1942. Aged 16 the duke walked behind the King’s coffin in 1952. In 1953 he paid homage to his cousin, the new Queen, at her coronation. He was riding with Her Majesty when the blanks were fired at the Trooping of the Colour in 1981. And he stood alongside the Queen to celebrate her official birthday in June 2021. He has been present at the key moments of 20th and 21st Century royal history."

Vickers said: "It has been an enormous pleasure talking to the duke – one of the unsung heroes of the royal family, who epitomises the often neglected concept of public service – putting something in, rather than taking it out."

Webb added: "Hodder is thrilled to be publishing this landmark royal book in the year we celebrate the Queen’s platinum jubilee. It’s a unique insight into the life of the longest serving member of the royal family and a ringside seat to many of the most significant moments of the Queen’s reign."

Perrin commented: "The Duke of Kent’s story is a remarkable tale of service and duty. His experiences and insights offer a fascinating perspective on the Queen’s extraordinary reign. I am excited and proud to be publishing this book."