Meghan Markle struggled to adjust to royal life, and a new book reveals the Duchess of Sus𝑠e𝑥 was shocked to learn she wasn’t compensated for royal tours.

Meghan and Prince Harry traveled to Australia in 2018, but their time there highlighted how little the Suits star knew about her role.

“On the South Pacific tour, Harry and Meghan were going down a storm,” Valentine Lowe wrote in Courtiers: The Hidden Power Behind the Crown. “Massive crowds were turning out to see them, and Meghan’s refreshingly informal approach to royal visits was proving a hit with the Australian public.

“Behind the scenes, however, it was a different story,” Lowe continued. “Although she enjoyed the attention, Meghan failed to understand the point of all those walkabouts, shaking hands with countless strangers. According to several members of staff, she was heard to say on at least one occasion: ‘I can’t believe I’m not getting paid for this.'”

The Duchess of Sus𝑠e𝑥 is currently based in California, but royal watchers think she wants to use her royal title to pursue opportunities in the U.S. OK! previously reported the former actress’ appearance at the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Gala was seen as her return to the spotlight.

“Meghan’s ultimate aim seems to be to make herself relevant and to transform herself into American royalty who is admired and powerful, independent of her husband,” psychotherapist Dr. Robi Ludwig told an outlet. “Whether this will be successful remains to be seen, as the public has not always been receptive to many aspects of her character and personality.”

“Wearing red is a powerful, boss lady color,” Ludwig shared of her outfit. “It says, ‘I’m here, I’m not hiding, and I’m ready to assume my position of power.’ Wearing red often symbolizes attraction, confidence and empowerment.”