Queen Camilla Once Resisted Royal Protocol, Called It ‘Bollocks,’ New Book Reveals

Royal Family
Joe Anderson
February 10, 2025
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187
6 minutes read

BY KARWAI TANG/GETTY IMAGES

A new book has shed light on Queen Camilla’s initial struggles with royal protocol before she officially became Queen Consort. According to royal author Tom Quinn, Camilla once despised the strict rules of palace life and often vented her frustrations to King Charles III.

In his upcoming book, Yes Ma’am: The Secret Life of Royal Servants, Quinn reveals that Camilla was overwhelmed by the rigid expectations placed upon her. Excerpts published in The Times of London, as reported by Us Weekly, describe her resistance to the formalities of royal life.

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“One member of staff told me that at one point, Camilla hated the idea of being queen and would regularly say to Charles, ‘Can’t we get away from all this protocol? It’s all bollocks,’” Quinn writes.

According to the book, Charles—who reportedly dislikes swearing—responded with a composed yet affectionate reassurance. “Charles, who hates swearing, would demurely reply, ‘You’re doing it [becoming queen] for me, darling,’” the author notes.

British Queen Camilla — Photo Credit: Getty Images

The book provides insight into the meticulous nature of the royal protocol, detailing how even the smallest aspects of daily life must be carefully planned. “Protocol means suits must be pressed and laid out after a period of consultation the night before,” Quinn writes.

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“Shoes must be polished, ties chosen, while baths should be run at precisely the same time each day.” Beyond Camilla’s struggles, the book also highlights the temperaments of King Charles and Prince William. According to a palace staff member, both royals have strong preferences and little patience when things do not go according to plan.

“They both get irritated very quickly,” the insider reveals. “They are very picky. It comes naturally to them.” While Camilla has since adjusted to her royal role, Quinn’s book paints a picture of her early frustrations with the rigid traditions of the monarchy. As Queen Consort, she now navigates the same protocols she once resented, demonstrating the personal sacrifices required in royal life.