ElleeSeymour

Praise for Secrets of the Royal Maid

Knowing that readers have enjoyed turning the pages of my books is the greatest reward I could have.

I lived and breathed Rosa’s life, imagining her emotions and struggles as she started a new life in London as a royal maid, leaving behind the beauty of the Welsh valleys for the capital city while it was constantly under air attack during WWII.

Here are some of the kind words I have received for which I am immensely grateful.

“To read some of my mother’s life story in your books brought tears to my eyes, and my heart filled with pride. I cannot thank you enough.”

– Jan Snaith, Rosa’s daughter

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Rosa around the time she worked at the royal palace.
“I could not be more excited to be publishing Annie’s new series about the life of a royal maid at Buckingham Palace in WWII. It’s a wonderfully page-turning insight into what goes on behind closed doors at the palace and the realities of being a young person trying to make their way in the world during war time.

“Annie’s brilliant research shines and her eye for detail and good storytelling are second to none. I am so delighted to be launching her on the Penguin Michael Joseph list as a saga voice to watch in April 2026.”

Madeleine Woodfield, Senior Fiction Editor at Penguin Michael Joseph

“Rosa Edwards’ story is a beautifully crafted personification of a young, ambitious woman seeking life’s fulfilment in the proverbial Big City. There is so much one could say about Merthyr Tydfil, the town and its history. You have said it and have contributed wonderfully in book form to its rich historical tapestry.

Rosa’s story is a reminder of how in past times many of Merthyr Tydfil’s young inhabitants sought a career in London. Domestic servants in the cities’ big houses were well sought after as being eminently sensible, totally honest, imbued from a chapel disposition and a strict upbringing in God-fearing Welsh homes. They were always considered diligent and many secured promotion through the ranks of that profession. It was a joyful revelation to know that in real life, Rosa’s change of fortune on leaving Merthyr and a life of poverty ended with her working as a royal maid.”

Huw Williams, Merthyr Tydfil historian

“To read some of my mother’s life story in your books brought tears to my eyes, and my heart filled with pride. I cannot thank you enough.”
Jan Snaith, Rosa’s daughter

Best selling saga authors

“A heartwarming tale of true friendship!”

Rosie Goodwin

“A gripping and heart warming read set in the royal palace.”
Daisy Styles