One of Britain's best-known authors says Meghan Markle has been the victim of racism since joining the royal family.
Hilary Mantel, whose novels Wolf Hall and Bring Up The Bodies both won the Booker Prize, voiced her support for Harry and Meghan.
The couple will quit the royal family at the end of the month to start a new life between the UK and North America.
Mantel told the BBC that racism is a factor in criticism Meghan has faced, saying: "But I think there has been an element of racism in the invective against her.
"I think it’s more deeply embedded in people’s consciousness than any of us are willing to admit."
The bestselling author said the way royal women are treated is "sad", and added that scrutiny of their bodies "does include the skin".
Soon after the start of the couple's relationship, Prince Harry said there were "racial undertones" in the way Meghan is treated.
And author Sir Philip Pullman said the Duchess is "attacked by the British press because she is black".
Harry is currently in the UK, and at the weekend held a meeting with the Queen to "clear the air" after the drama and upset of the past few weeks.
The royal pair spent four hours talking during an "extraordinary fireside chat" at Windsor Castle on Sunday, the Sun reports.
The Monarch reportedly ended their conversation by telling Harry: "You are much loved and will always be welcomed back."
A source said: “The Queen had a lot to talk to Harry about and this was the ideal time for them to both say their piece.
“Sunday was the first time the Queen has had the chance to talk to Harry on his own and really find out what his plans are.
"It was a much more relaxed environment and they were both able to speak their mind.”
