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Victoria's Secret

The Private Passion of a Queen

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About this listen

Brought to you by Penguin.

‘Mine is a nature which requires being loved, and I have lost almost all those who loved me most on earth.’


From the moment John Brown arrived as a servant to Queen Victoria's household, he became known across the land as her loyal companion, her fierce protector, and her right-hand man, their friendship immortalised in print and later on-screen. But what if there was more to their relationship than we know? And what has history been hiding from us?

In this provocative exploration of Victoria's emotional world, and her passionate midlife, the acclaimed historian Fern Riddell re-examines everything we thought we knew about one of Britain's most iconic women. A timeless romance and an extraordinary retelling of the intimate life of a queen, Victoria's Secret is an unmissable account of a woman in love.

© Fern Riddell 2025 (P) Penguin Audio 2025

 Europe Great Britain Historical Politics & Activism Royalty Women

Critic reviews

Victoria’s Secret reveals an astonishing new side to a queen we thought we knew, and a beautiful and revitalising portrait of a woman in love. This meticulous unravelling of a 160-year-old mystery showcases Riddell at her bold and passionate best.
A witty, compelling, irresistible read that unpretentiously reveals a great deal about the Victorian age. (Sathnam Sanghera, author of Empireland)
Through her meticulous research and propulsive prose, Riddell reveals the women behind the crown in all her fascinating complexity. Riveting, bold, and deeply human, Victoria's Secret is an absolute joy. (Elinor Cleghorn, author of 'Unwell Women')

Fern Riddell's quietly brilliant book explores a part of Queen Victoria’s life that history chose to forget.

It’s tender, surprising and might just change how we see her.

(Robert Rinder, author of 'The Trial and the Suspect')
Fern Riddell has solved one of the greatest royal mysteries of all time. Now, at last, we know the truth about Queen Victoria and John Brown (Bendor Grosvenor, author of 'The Invention of British Art')
All stars
Most relevant
Really interesting listen. Great to hear about the culture of the highlands and duality of Victoria and her opinions!

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