Zara Phillips - Tapa dura

Zara Phillips' story is definitely not rags-to-riches. Instead it is a fascinating tale of determination, the search for independence and the will to succeed on her own merit. As the only daughter of Princess Anne and given the reputation as a rebel Royal for her tongue-piercing, sense of style and controversial love life, Zara has long been the subject of public attention. But while her Royal lineage has ensured she is never far from the public eye, her success as a sportswoman received little attention until she was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2006 after winning the Gold Medal at the equestrian World Championships. This book looks beyond the public image to reveal the real Zara. It charts her childhood, including her parents' divorce and her mother's subsequent remarriage, her school years and her relationships with other members of the Royal family, including Prince William, as well as her personal life and her rise to the top of her chosen sport. With original anecdotes from those who really know Zara, quotes from contemporaries in the equestrian world and comments from fashion experts, this book is a revealing look at life as a young royal and champion sportswoman.

Brian Hoey is a writer and broadcaster with over 40 years' experience. He is the official biographer of the Princess Royal and author of Her Majesty, Snowdon: Public Figure, Private Man and Anne the Princess Royal. He was the first person to conduct a TV interview with Zara Phillips' mother Princess Anne, and has interviewed many other members of the Royal Family.