Note to readers: In the UK, this book is published under the title The Love Letter.

“Plenty of twists, flashbacks, and a dash of romance keep the suspense high. For anyone looking for a dose of palace intrigue or upper-crust scandal, Riley’s latest novel delivers on both counts.” —Booklist

“Chock full of shocking...this gripping novel is sure to keep Riley’s fans and new readers alike turning pages.” —Publishers Weekly

“Fans of mystery, royal family intrigue, and even romance will enjoy this novel.” —Columbia Missourian

In this suspenseful and heart-pounding novel from New York Times bestselling author Lucinda Riley, an ambitious young journalist unravels a dangerous mystery that threatens to devastate the British monarchy.

Keeping secrets is a dangerous game.

When Sir James Harrison, one the greatest actors of his generation, passes away at the age of ninety-five, he leaves behind not just a heartbroken family but also a secret so shocking, it could rock the English establishment to its core.

Joanna Haslam, an up-and-coming reporter, is assigned to cover the legendary actor’s funeral, attended by glitzy celebrities of every background. But Joanna stumbles on something dark beneath the glamour: the mention of a letter James Harrison has left behind—the contents of which many have been desperate to keep concealed for over seventy years. As she peels back the veil of lies that has shrouded the secret, she realizes that she’s close to uncovering something deadly serious—and the royal family may be implicated. Before long, someone is on her tracks, attempting to prevent her from discovering the truth. And they’ll stop at nothing to reach the letter before she does.

Full of salacious scandal, shocking twists, and captivating romance, and written in Lucinda Riley’s signature “vividly drawn and lushly atmospheric” (RT Book Reviews) prose, The Royal Secret is “a full-throttle escapist adventure” (Lancashire Evening Post).

Originally published in 2000 by Pan Books under the title Seeing double, under the name Lucinda Edmonds;; an updated and revised edition was published in 2018 by Pan Books under the title The love letter, under the name Lucinda Riley.

"Travel back to 90s London with this exposé of dark secrets among the members of the English top drawer. Perfect summer escapism, with twists galore."