The Queen has kicked off her book club with a hilarious first choice, showing off her sense of humour.
Camilla will be revealing her favourite books in a new podcast series – The Queens Reading Room.
Her first choice of novel is a surprising one – The Lords’ Day by Lord Michael Dobbs. It sees the Royal Family taken hostage at the State Opening of Parliament.
The author, known for writing House of Cards, told the Telegraph that he sent the book to the royals on a whim, saying: “I thought it would be rather fun.”
In an “unexpected but wonderful” twist, it was announced on the Queen’s book club lineup weeks later.
Dobbs said: “I think it shows how inclusive and open-minded Camilla is. This isn’t a fussy traditionalist; this is a Queen who has got her eyes open to the modern world.”
It has been included in the list alongside national classics by Charles Dickens, Ian McEwan and Jane Austen.
This is not the first time the Queen has promoted reading, with her Instagram book club set up during the pandemic.
It has since become a charity with its own annual literary festival at Hampton Court Palace.
Camilla will present the new podcast alongside guest stars such as Dame Joanna Lumley, Sir Ian Rankin, David Baddiel, Elif Shafak and Susie Dent.
Chief executive of The Queen’s Reading Room and podcast host Vicki Perrin said: “There is nothing quite like a brilliant book recommendation from a friend; but it’s even better when that person is one of your favourite authors or most admired persons.
“I hope that this podcast will inspire listeners to new literary adventures and help those wishing to love books a little more, find the books which set their imaginations alight.”
The podcast comes after Camilla waded into the row over rewriting works by Roald Dahl for a modern audience.
Speaking at a reception for the second anniversary of her book club last year, Camilla told assembled writers: “Please remain true to your calling, unimpeded by those who may wish to curb the freedom of your expression or impose limits on your imagination.
“Enough said. Let there be no squeaking like mice about your achievements, but only roaring like a pride of lions.”
