Every year over 5000 royal engagements take place around the world from the Queen's famous summer garden parties to the mysterious world of the Privy Council & high-profile overseas tours. But little is widely known about the inner workings of the institution that lies at the very heart of the British nation. For the first time ever The Monarchy" takes the reader behind the scenes meeting the people that keep the royal machine running like clockwork. With unprecedented access to the key players & organizations involved " The Monarchy" follows the working life of the Queen over the course of a whole year both home & abroad. Ever wondered who opens the Queen's mail who pays the bills or even how the royals follow the score in the Ashes? Alongside such trivial matters sit weightier concerns such as audiences with the Prime Minister the formal honouring of bravery & excellence & the sensitive issue of the royal response at times of controversy or crisis. Accompanying a major BBC1 television series " The Monarchy" provides a fascinating insight into the public & private lives of this most familiar of families. Written by the " Daily Mail's" Robert Hardman & lavishly illustrated with exclusive colour photographs this book will appeal both to avid royal-watchers & anyone fascinated in the history & heritage of the United Kingdom."