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Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Genre: Memoir, Biography, Royalty, Photography, Nonfiction

Book Review:
Paul Burrell's ''The Way We Were'' offers a perspective on Princess Diana that is truly unique: that of her most trusted servant and friend. As her butler from 1987 onwards, Burrell occupied a rare space in her life, witnessing her private moments, her joys, and her struggles within the confines of Kensington Palace. This book, published for the 10th anniversary of her death, is both a memorial and a revelation.

The book's standout feature is its visual intimacy. The inclusion of previously unseen interior photographs of Diana's homes provides readers with a tangible sense of her personal environment and taste. Burrell's narrative is affectionate and defensive of his former employer, sharing anecdotes that highlight her humour, her generosity, and her complex relationships with figures from Hollywood to the Royal Family. He addresses her bond with Sarah Ferguson and offers his account of her relationship with Dodi Al Fayed.

While some may view the book through the lens of Burrell's controversial public profile, it remains an undeniably personal and primary source. It doesn't aim for detached historical analysis but rather for personal remembrance. For Diana's admirers, it is a poignant collection of memories and images that bring her closer. For students of royalty and media, it is a fascinating case study in the blending of private service with public testimony. ''The Way We Were'' is a visually rich and emotionally charged tribute that adds another layer to the enduring story of Diana, Princess of Wales.