PRINCE Harry reportedly scrambled to tell his family about his new memoir “moments” before it was announced – blindsiding the royals.
Harry, 36, has been secretly writing a book detailing his life as a Royal, his relationship with wife Meghan Markle, Megxit and raising his kids.
It is understood Harry scrambled to contact his family only when he knew the story was coming out – just moments before it became public.
It is not known if he had warned the Queen before last night.
The duke reportedly told his family about the book in private – but only “very recently”, according to a source who spoke to royal reporter Jack Royston.
A Clarence House aide told The Times: “The prince loves his children very much and remains focused on his work to ensure we have a sustainable future for the next generation, including his own children and grandchildren.”
Another aide told the paper: “Oh gosh.”
A spokesperson for Harry told the BBC that he “would not be expected to obtain permission for the project from Buckingham Palace”.
Harry has reportedly been working on the book for about a year – with a manuscript originally due to be handed in to publishers next month.
This was later pushed back until October, but the first draft is “almost completely written” according to Page Six.
In a statement, the duke, 36, said: “I’m writing this not as the prince I was born but as the man I have become.
“I’ve worn many hats over the years, both literally and figuratively, and my hope that in telling my story – the highs and lows, the mistakes, the lessons learned – I can help show that no matter where we come from, we have more in common than we think.
“I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to share what I’ve learned over the course of my life so far and excited for people to read a firsthand account of my life that’s accurate and wholly truthful.”
A blurb from the publisher Penguin Random House reads: “In an intimate and heartfelt memoir from one of the most fascinating and influential global figures of our time, Prince Harry will share, for the very first time, the definitive account of the experiences, adventures, losses, and life lessons that have helped shape him”.
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The blurb says that the book will cover Harry’s “lifetime in the public eye from childhood to the present day, including his dedication to service, the military duty that twice took him to the frontlines of Afghanistan, and the joy he has found in being a husband and father”.
It also promises “an honest and captivating personal portrait”.
Markus Dohle, CEO of Penguin Random House, said, “All of us at Penguin Random House are thrilled to publish Prince Harry’s literary memoir and have him join the world-renowned leaders, icons, and change-makers we have been privileged to publish over the years.
“Prince Harry has harnessed his extraordinary life experience as a prince, a soldier, and a knowledgeable advocate for social issues, establishing himself as a global leader recognized for his courage and openness.
“It is for that reason we’re excited to publish his honest and moving story.”
Harry has been writing the book with ghostwriter J.R. Moehringer – who has also written memoirs for Andre Agassi and Nike co-founder Phil Knight.
The duke said he will be donating his profits from the book to charity.
An audiobook version will also be released.
