Does it all seem worth it now? Booker Prize–winning author Hilary Mantel’s novels have increased sales since her comments that the Duchess of Cambridge “appeared to be designed by a committee and built by craftsmen with a perfect, plastic smile.” While Mantel’s essay has drawn plenty of criticism throughout Britain—even Prime Minister David Cameron weighed in, calling the comments “completely misguided”—she has had some defenders, who have pointed to the essay’s nuanced portrayal of the role of a modern royal, whose main job it is to produce an heir.
