Oh my. Fascinating book. Yes he overshared but he was not getting his point across (though you have to wish he’d been more patient). Tragic for all involved. And the ghostwriter was phenomenal - pulling the story together and capturing Harry’s voice. ( )

Spare by Prince Harry begins well, but quickly falls into a complaining story of all the wrongs thrown on poor Harry, the second child of Princess Diana. Harry constantly bemoans the issue that he reigns as the “Spare” and not an important member of the royal family. All attention lands on the shoulders of William. Harry seeks attention by misbehaving everywhere. He marries an unacceptable woman, and then moves to the United States to live. Where is his loyalty for friends and family in England. Harry feels that the stress lands too heavily on him. The book pounds home the childishness of Harry, and Harry’s attempt to boost his income. Not an enjoyable book. ( )

The baggage and noise around the Royals makes it hard to have a fresh perspective. (But one should. Otherwise why bother reading?). “Poor Harry” is the main theme here, the subject portraying himself as lost and bereft from the opening scene. He has had adversity to deal with, and has felt unsupported by his core family. The book is well-written, easy to read in its short and neat episodes, and his approach is humble - a memoir full of feeling but not awash with ego. Harry’s
purposeful moments (the army, the Invictus games) are the most satisfying for him and the reader. But there are too few of those. The sibling rivalry, in contrast, is a bit tiresome (even without settling whether Harry is more the victim or is sustaining it by bringing it up here) and recurrent. Likewise the griping about the press and his image in it, his image in general. Harry’s analysis of motives here veers into the simplistic. Nor is he himself neutral in this matter, as he does seem to buy into the public interest in his public image. He can’t resist explaining how the “Court Circular” benchmark of the Royals’ work is skewed against him. He treats his role of“Spare” as further adversity, but is that more because of the cocooned constraints or because of the inferior status? ( )

I truly enjoyed this book. I loved hearing Prince Harry read it himself. I think he did a fabulous job of writing, which is amazing considering how much he claims to hate reading and doing things of that nature. Still, it's very thorough, beginning with the death of his mother and wrapping up at the death of Queen Elizabeth. I wish Harry and his family all the best!!! ( )

I remember when I first became aware of the royal family. I was in middle school and the world was in a tizzy about the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Di. Like so many, I fell for the lie about the fairy tale of being royalty. But as time passed and their marriage disintegrated, I started to lose respect for Prince Charles, for sure, for the shabby way he treated Diana. By the time they divorced (and Sarah and Andrew right before them), it was clear that being a member of this family was no fairy tale, it was more likely a curse.

I don't know how anyone can doubt anything in this book. The descriptions of the despicable ways in which the royal family eats its own in order to maintain its power and privilege echoes everything that was said by Princess Diana through Andrew Morton in Her True Story and by Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, in her 1996 memoir, My Story. Many criticize Harry for airing the family's dirty laundry, but the rot at the core of this family needs to be exposed. All the palaces, jewels, fancy clothes and ribbon cuttings in the world cannot mask their greed, selfishness and pettiness. They are not to be admired; they are the epitome of dysfunction and I'm glad my tax dollars don't pay for them.

The horrific and overtly racist treatment he and Meghan endured at the hands of the press is bad enough. The complete lack of support and outright sabotage by his family magnifies that times one hundred. No one should have to live that way, I applaud Harry for speaking his truth and truly believe that he is better off on his own and that he made the escape that Diana wished for but was never able to accomplish. Living large in America, on his own terms, is his best revenge. Good on ya, Harry. You're the only one of them worth a damn. ( )

I've never been one who wanted to read stories about the British monarchy--in part because I felt doing so would reinforce the press/paparazzi behavior of invading the privacy of celebrities and the famous. I don't know why I decided to read this book given that.

I do feel sad that the brothers no longer seem close--I don't know if that was inevitable as they both matured or if it is the result of the monarchic system or some other reason.

I do think Harry views this as truth--I suspect that the real truth lies somewhere between the stories from several viewpoints. If Harry and Megan truly left to try to keep their family safe, then I hope they succeed in that. ( )

I mostly enjoyed listening to this book, narrated by Harry. I think Harry has every right to get his story out, but I found myself often thinking "you need an editor" and "this feels like the ghost writer was writing down everything Harry said verbatim." I also found myself getting frustrated at Harry's surprise towards the end of the book, that his family would support him, and his wife. How many times have the shown you who they are and yet you keep giving them grace. ( )

Read for bookclub

I understand wanting your truth to be heard but this just felt so immature and bro-ish - he really gave the middle finger to his messed up family
The bits about his mummy did pull on my heartstrings though
But overall it felt like I was reading a gossip mag - and I just didn’t care to learn any of it.

This book made me sad for lots of different reasons: the way that William is portrayed; how lost Harry seems; the feeling that he is selling out his family; the lack of warmth; how Harry is showing himself as a victim and the rest of the family as bullies. I'm not sure why I read it even, maybe to see how the other half lives? I almost wish I hadn't now. ( )

Harry and his ghostwriter have done good work in Spare. It feels like Harry’s voice isn’t too lost amid the writing of a professional hired to make it sound better. I just don’t love the practice of ghostwriting and find it to be a bit dodgy.

I enjoyed reading Harry’s perspective on his very public life and analyzing how events affected him. I also see Harry taking responsibility and acknowledging areas in which he has found a need to learn and grow. He acknowledges his privilege, and it seems he has sought through philanthropic work to give back in meaningful ways.

This man’s life story is a sound reminder that even the most privileged life holds heartbreak and problems. If your approach to this book is that it’s the collected whinings of a spoiled brat about the minor inconveniences of being a Royal, I encourage you to flex your empathy muscles. Happiness and fulfillment don’t just come along with wealth and status. Everyone has struggles. Even a prince. ( )

This memoir of the first thirty-something years of Prince Harry's life has been widely discussed in the media and there is probably not too much left unsaid about it. In the book, Harry relates memories of his childhood, writes about dealing with the tragic death of his mother, royal life, his time in the military, getting to know Meghan and leaving Britain. First and foremost he writes about his relation with the press and how paparazzi make his life a living hell. While all of this is interesting to read, I found the whole book not as sensational. I knew that as a royal you were constantly subjected to being in the news, but the extent of being photographed every instant of your life and being harassed by paparazzi every step of your way was surprising to me. I would have thought that the palace had more clout in getting some privacy, making stories go away or would at least sue media outlets for libel more often. The one thing that bugged me about the book - but this was to be expected, it being a memoir - is the degree of subjectivity that shines through in various places. Of course, this is a portrayal of Harry's view, but somehow the descriptions feel exceptionally one-sided sometimes. Then again, this puts more urgency behind his call for more privacy. In that sense, I think it is completely fair and everyone knows that this is Harry's opinion. I would not dare to judge what this man has to go through and I found myself really rooting for him. Overall, I did enjoy reading the book. 3.5 stars. ( )

Really never been a big fan of „the royals“ but all the hoopla over Meghan piqued my curiosity. Well written book, gives a lot of insight into the behind the scenes machinations of “The Firm” and their hangers on. ( )

I read this book because it is a best selling controversial telling of memories. I took it as one person reflecting on his thoughts of his life at a specific time. Just as his early days of roaming Balmoral Castle (which I tremendously enjoyed learned about,) his interations with his father, mother and bother, and his difficult time of acceptiong the death of his mother is a telling of that time, why can't the rest of his memories be just that -- his memories -- his throughts!!

I know this is a book laden with opinions. I simply enjoyed the descripton of the castles, the strick hierachtical british system, and his love of his granny and mother. In the beginning of the book his father is portrayed as a cold man, but someone who really tries to break down barriers. Give the father a break for trying, which is what I think Harry is trying to do.

I love that his father calls him "Darling Boy!." Harry's recollections of treatment after his mother died and Camilla came into the picture is of course, his view. It should remain just that ... his view.

Frankly, I didn't understand why this singular book caused such a racus. Harry explained how he felt, and backed it up with examples. I'm not sure he did this to harm which is what he is accused of.

San, British aristocracy, I am sure that if I wrote a book about each of my sisters, my father, my mother and granny, they would not accept my feelings and thoughts. But that is exactly what they would be, ie my remembrances.

I am saying that I don't understand what all the hupla is about. Let the Darling Boy have his memories. Let him tell the reader what he thought. Why add all the drama to his opinions. IF he is hurt then let him express this opinion. I just don't understand this ostrazation and drama. ( )

An interesting look behind the scenes at not only Royal life but warfare as well. As a fan of Diana and her sons, it was great to hear Harry’s point of view from youth through marriage. It also was a strong reminder of how awful the British press/tabloids is/are. ( )

Talk about the ultimate dysfunctional family - that would be the royal family of today. We've heard so much about Harry and Meghan's problems and how they were treated, so it's interesting to read Harry's take on what happened. It's hard to believe that Harry and William's relationship is as fractured and ugly as Harry states it is, but, if so, it is really sad. The section about Harry's involvement in the war in Afghanistan is interesting, although somewhat lengthy. Still not sure if I can believe everything he wrote, but I came away from this having a more positive view of Harry than I had previously, given that the death of his mother caused him great unresolved trauma for a very long time. ( )

Väga meeldiv üllatus, kuna lugema asudes ma ei arvanud, et raamat võiks mulle meeldida. Ma ei ole Briti kuningakoja vastu kunagi mingit erilist huvi tundnud, aga sellest raamatust on juba ette nii palju räägitud, et uudishimu sai võitu. Ja mul on väga hea meel.
Kuulasin seda audios, mida autor ise (suurepäraselt) sisse luges ja pean tunnistama, et kaks päaeva praktiliselt jutti, mida lähemale tänapäevale lugu jõudis, seda huvitavamaks läks. ( )

Audiobook

Harry is a good narrator and I enjoyed listening to this but I knocked off a star since a lot of it was familiar already.

I don’t suppose that any of us will ever know the full truth but I’m inclined to believe most of what he says. It’s not hard to believe he was traumatized by Diana’s death and that the weird, formal, fishbowl of royal life wasn’t great for his mental health. He didn’t ask for any of that and can’t be blamed for how that great loss made him feel. I don’t know how anybody can listen to the first half of this book and not feel bad about how lonely he seemed to be.

The rest of the drama between Harry, Charles, and William is sad. I think they are all right from their own POV. Hopefully someday they can all move past it but probably not. If I were a Harry, I’d have done whatever I could to get away from that life. ( )

I listened to this intentionally and I am so happy that I did! I could listen to Prince Harry endlessly. A soft spoken, even speech pattern and so sincere that I truly want to be his friend. I won't lie, the audio was 19 hours and thus took more time than usual. He is forthright, he keeps things positive and you can see the growth that has put him where he is today. Everything he is doing to be a steady good person is awe-inspiring. Like his mom, he takes the beating but holds his head up to continue life as she would have, enjoying everything it gives him. ( )

PALACE SEPARATION FROM PRINCE HARRY VIEWPOINT. CANNOT UNDERSTAND HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH BROTHER AND PA, OR THE AMOUNT OF PUNISHMENT FROM PRESS CONCERNING MEG. IN FINAL ANALYSIS HE IS NOW IN HIS GOOD PLACE AND HARRY IS JEALOUS. ( )

I had high hopes for this book, genuinely I did. Being an avid reader this year, I wanted to join the chorus of praise surrounding it, but unfortunately, I can't. I approached the book with an open mind, without any strong preconceptions about Harry and his family drama. My intention was to delve into the real story behind the numerous magazine covers and headlines that I had ignored. It was like embarking on a journey, anticipating a delightful sip of "English Tea."

However, right from the first chapter, the writing put me off. The author painted a picture of a season caught between winter and spring, where bare trees, soft air, gray skies, and blooming tulips created a beautiful yet melancholic atmosphere. It was an intriguing mix of positives and negatives.

In his own words, Harry portrayed himself as remarkably brave, a quality that typically merits acknowledgment from others. He emphasized his readiness to take action while others hesitated, claiming that he never required a second request to complete a task. It was a bold self-assessment. He even hinted at the possibility of donating organs to his brother if the need arose, a suggestion that might concern his mother. He complained about his brother having a larger room in the castle, better furniture, and how Meghan had to purchase a couch on her credit card from IKEA. These instances raised doubts about his claims of financial disadvantage. The extensive and repetitive pages dedicated to his bravery and exceptional helicopter flying skills felt self-indulgent, as if he had a separate book in mind solely for that topic. Undeniably, this section of the book became tiresome. Consequently, my opinion of Harry as a person did not become favorable after reading this book. Meghan, on the other hand, came across as lovely, but unfortunately, the book did not provide much insight into her character. Ultimately, Harry appeared to be a troubled individual, and I genuinely hope he finds peace in California.
( )

(2) I enjoyed this memoir by Prince Harry having just finished watching 'The Crown.' Not surprising already over 1000 readers on LT despite being a new hard cover. I thought this was fairly well-written and vulnerable and interesting. It really humanized him and the reader could not help but have empathy for him and his wife. Really - what is wrong with journalists and photographers who do that kind of work? It is gross. I'll admit to having an interest in the English monarchy - more historical than current, but for the love of God, leave these people alone. They are real humans. I hope this couple finds peace and that Harry finds purpose and independence.

I was most interested in his interactions with the Queen and his later adolescence after his mother died. How he was convinced she had gone into hiding and would eventually resurface. Referring to his mother's disappearance rather than her death. That was quite an effective way for underlining his swallowed grief. Also so strange to have to make appointments with family members through their secretaries. And thinking of being a royal as 'a job' with a staff and engagements. Fascinating.

Harry is quite open about drug use and partying, etc. Quite open about being a soldier and enjoying blowing things up. He is not at all restrained which is refreshing. I do think he pulled some punches with regards to his father and brother. It was hard to truly figure out why there was a rift there without more contextual detail but I suspect he didn't want to burn bridges. An engaging read from a man on a mission to set the record straight - but ultimately, without much gravitas. ( )

Moved this to the front of my library queue when someone else in my bump group started reading, though she DNF'd because she found the earlier chapters boring. Overall, I liked this, as a voice from within the fishbowl of royalty that doesn't hold to the Firm's typical silence (while fiction, my main takeaway from The Crown is that there's an awful lot of wrangling just to have the appearance of no opinion/neutrality), and I'm glad that as spare he can wrench himself away into building his own path while condemning the obsessives that killed his mother and nearly killed his wife.

Structurally, I appreciate the sections titled after stanzas of Invictus, though the contiguous chapter segments were a choice. I read a physical copy, but I can imagine how the audiobook would be compelling. His reflections on Afghanistan remind me I haven't read as many retrospectives of that era (and I'm sure perspectives will shift as we get further away from it), but he's straightforward on what it meant to be there, engaging with allies and enemies. ( )

I did not expect to find this as fascinating as I did. Short, sharp writing. Interesting anecdotes - not a ton of drama, but what felt like an authentic look into Harry's self-concept. I've never read a book on the royal family before, and feel like this suffices for me. ( )

I think this is a very interesting book. I hope that Prince Harry does read his reviews. I am not going to give away much in spoiler alerts. I will say that probably nearly every reader has a predetermined attitude toward Prince Harry before reading this book. I did, in a favorable way. This did not change. In fact, it became more favorable. If you believe royals are right at all cost, and family can be sacrificed to run a kingdom, then you are going to call everything he said a pack of lies. If you can see how royal families like regular families play favorites, pit one against another, say one thing and do another, and see beyond the fog to know the crap from the good, then you will love this book. I hope that Harry and Meghan have a splendid life being a totally normal couple, raising healthy children and keeping the spirit of servitude toward the less fortunate as Princess Dianna did. I would love to meet both of them in person one day. I don't think I would feel awkward or put on airs just for them. The only thing I would like to add is regarding the brief encounter mentioned with the fortuneteller. Please, Harry and Meghan, just don't! It is powers of the devil. They are allowed to know limited information about you, to deceive you in the devil's ways. If you want confirmation that your life has meaning, and you will get your reward, seek Christ. If you need beginner tools, there is a phone app called YouVersion, and a TV show called The 700 Club. Those are great starting points, and they would LOVE to have you on that show, I am sure, if you are followers of Christ with your personal story to tell. I already envision great things for Harry and Meghan by breaking protocol and breaking free. Now is your time to fly and be happy! Honestly, there are rumors that England is part of the One World Order to be, and it a nutshell, it is going to be evil. I think Harry got a good taste of the birth pains by living among it. I won't even discuss each of his family members, but will say that honestly, from reading EVERYTHING, that his Granny and his mom were his only true blue supporters! ( )

Since I don't live in Britain, and don't follow their tabloids, I was unaware of the extent to which the Royal Family live in gilded cages. But more, I was unaware of the stories concocted about them.

Clearly, Harry has been hurt by the lies, and the cameras, and the lack of privacy. I can believe the intrigues of the palace staff; it is harder to believe the level of estrangement he and Megan have from the rest of the family. Although, maybe not. Many families, mine included, have experienced estrangement for less cause.

I do think this memoir could have been edited down a bit. It does go into more detail than necessary, and sometimes I think Harry over shares. But it's his story. It's good to have some understanding of what people in the public eye experience. Who would want to trade places with him? ( )