Thanks to NetGalley for a digital ARC of this title in exchange for my honest review. I am always an avid fan of anything to do with the British royal family, and this book was no exception. It never fails to amaze me to the lengths, devotions and depths that many in service to royal families will go to make things work. Marion devoted every aspect of her life to being governess to both Princess Margaret and Princess Elizabeth. Arlen highlighted the many ups and downs of life during these years, including the Great Depression and WWII, especially during their time of "exile" at Windsor Castle (for their own safety) during WWII. I'm going to try to not give away the big twist but I will say this: I believe that Marion didn't have any ill intentions by choosing to do what she did, and I firmly believe those she dealt with double-crossed her, simply to get more publicity. Everything she did in her time of service was in devotion to the royal family. I can't see a person living that many years in that role having a complete and total reversal and just being duplicitous and scandalous.

I really enjoyed reading this book. I did not know the story of Marion Crawford, governess to the princesses Elizabeth and Margaret, for 16 years including during the WWII years when they were exiled at Windsor Castle for their safety.

It was sad to me that when Marion wrote articles about her time with the royal family for the American magazine Ladies Home Journal, the people she was doing business with seemed to have double-crossed her about their agreement that her name would in no way be used. When it was revealed, no member of the royal family ever spoke to her again, though they had been quite close during the years of her employment with them.

I received this book from the publisher via net galley in exchange for an honest review.

This was an interesting book highlighting the life of the governess, Marion Crawford, to both Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret. The turbulent times of the many of the years through the Depression and World War II are well covered by the author as she showcases the lives of British royalty. Her total dedication to the family at the expense of her own happiness is prevalent throughout the sixteen plus years she spent in servitude. All ties are severed with Marion as Queen Elizabeth I is angered by what she felt was the ultimate betrayal. The reader can decide for themselves if they feel this is justified. Well written! #InRoyalServiceToTheQueen #TessaArlen #NetGalley