Prince Harry’s highly anticipated memoir, titled “Spare,” has turned into a complete disaster for both the author and the publisher, Penguin Random House.
The book, released on January 10, 2023, was meant to provide an intimate and honest account of Harry’s life, from his childhood to his marriage to Meghan Markle and their decision to step back from their royal roles.
However, it has been widely criticized as a bitter and self-pitying rant filled with lies, exaggerations, and accusations against his family and the monarchy.
The public, media, and royal experts have all voiced their discontent, accusing Harry of being ungrateful, disloyal, and hypocritical.
Readers have also expressed their disappointment, finding the book dull, repetitive, and poorly written.
Platforms like Goodreads and Amazon have seen low ratings for “Spare.”
In fact, an expert analysis revealed that Harry’s book ranks as the fourth lowest-rated celebrity author in the past three years, with an average rating of just 1.5 out of 5.
In contrast, legends like Sir Paul McCartney soared high with an impressive overall rating of 4.75 out of 5 for his book “The Lyrics,” which was also published by Penguin Random House.
The negative reception of Harry’s memoir has had a significant impact on its sales, which have fallen far below expectations.
Global sales for “Spare” have only reached 200,000 copies, while “The Lyrics” has sold over 2 million copies.
Furthermore, Harry’s book failed to make it onto the top 10 bestseller lists in both the UK and the US, whereas “The Lyrics” claimed the top spot in both countries.
Penguin Random House, who reportedly paid Harry an advance of at least $20 million for the memoir, now faces substantial losses.
The publisher had hoped for a global sensation and a lucrative investment but instead finds itself dealing with a costly mistake and a public relations nightmare.
Sources reveal that the publisher is demanding Harry return the advance or at least a significant portion of it, as he has failed to fulfill his promises and obligations.
Penguin Random House is also dissatisfied with Harry’s lack of cooperation and promotion for the book.
He has refused to participate in interviews or events to support its launch.
Harry, however, seems reluctant to repay the money and instead blames the publisher for the book’s failure.
He accuses them of leaking the book to the press before its release date, which he believes damaged its reputation and sales.
This debacle has not only strained Harry’s relationship with his wife Meghan, but it has also raised concerns for her own book deal with Penguin Random House.
She fears that Harry’s memoir may negatively impact her own prospects and credibility.
Beyond personal consequences, Harry’s memoir has caused significant damage to his relationship with his family and his country.
His harsh and unfounded criticisms have alienated and offended many, leading to calls from royal fans and commentators for him to be stripped of his royal titles and privileges.
They demand an apology to his family and the nation for his actions.
In the end, Harry’s memoir has proven to be a disaster for everyone involved, highlighting the mistake he made by leaving his royal role to pursue a Hollywood fantasy.
He has lost the respect and support of his family, his country, and even his publisher.
Instead of being viewed as a prince, soldier, or leader, he is now seen as a spoiled and selfish individual lacking a sense of duty or loyalty.
His own actions have led to his downfall, and he has no one to blame but himself.