OK! Reveals the Brutal Rival Reactions to Latest Biographical Takedown of Meghan Markle 

Meghan Markle is the subject of yet another brutal unauthorized book takedown thanks to the release of royal obsessive Tom Bower's latest effort – and OK! can reveal supporters of the duchess are dismissing the book as cruel near-fiction, while critics describe it as a renewed and highly critical portrait of her and her husband Prince Harry's post-royal life.

Bower's new book, Betrayal, follows his earlier work, Revenge, and charts the Sussexes' journey from their 2018 wedding through their departure from royal duties and into their current life in California.

The biography draws on a mix of reported incidents, public records and anonymous accounts, revisiting longstanding tensions within the royal family and examining the couple's commercial ventures, including their Netflix deal and charitable work. The publication has reignited debate about the Sussexes' public image at a time when their global profile continues to evolve.

A publishing industry source told: "Bower's book is being framed as a 'brutal takedown' and that is very much how it is being received in certain quarters. The book leans heavily into criticism of Meghan's conduct and decision-making, presenting a narrative that is likely to provoke strong reactions on both sides. At the same time, the Sussexes are viewing it as deranged conspiracy and melodrama, only amplifying attention on the book and ensuring it is part of a much wider conversation."

Among the few named contributors in the book is Ella Robertson, who recounted an interaction with Meghan at a 2022 One Young World conference.

She said: "She's tone-deaf to others. She just can't do what we wanted. She's toxic."

The account is presented as part of a broader pattern of criticism within Bower's book, which frequently portrays Meghan as difficult in professional settings.

The release also revisits reported tensions between the Sussexes and other members of the royal family.

It describes a meeting with Prince William, 43, and Kate Middleton, 44, shortly after the Sussexes' honeymoon, during which Meghan is alleged to have said: "If you don't mind, get your finger out of my face."

The claims are not independently verified but form part of the narrative presented by Bower.

A royal source said: "The book positions itself as a continuation of a critical narrative that has followed Meghan since her entry into the royal family. By compiling these accounts, it reinforces a particular portrayal that has been both contested and widely circulated. It is notable that much of the material draws on previously reported incidents, which may limit how much new ground it breaks."

Bower's account also examines the Sussexes' media strategy and production deals, including claims about strict controls placed on staff working with them.

These allegedly include vetting individuals' social media histories and requiring non-disclosure agreements, as well as limiting direct interaction with the couple.

The book also recounts anecdotal moments, such as requests made during public engagements, which it presents as illustrative of broader behavior.

Harry is depicted as a conflicted figure, with the book suggesting he has aligned closely with Meghan's views on the royal family. It also references his memoir Spare, including repeated mentions of personal details that drew public attention upon publication.

A source said: "Tom has released a highly critical account of Harry and Meghan that is unlikely to shift entrenched views but will certainly reignite debate. For supporters and critics alike, it adds another chapter to an ongoing and deeply polarizing narrative around the couple."