Prior to WWII the world was in turmoil. This was accentuated in Great Britain by the love affair between Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson. This book presents the history political as well as societal, along with new information that gives a clear view of the turbulent time.
Edward is presented as a self-absorbed man who put his desires ahead of the good of the country. The author clearly believes that in spite of Edward’s younger brother, George, being a reluctant king, the country was the winner. Wallis Simpson is presented as pragmatic and cold. It isn’t clear that she was ever in love with Edward although he was infatuated with her. She even tried to break it off at one point.
The scenes of Wallis’ divorce are worth the price of the book. The political and personal machinations that went into that episode are incredible. The assassination attempt on Edward is also fascinating reading.
This book is filled with historical detail and could have been dull, but the author did an excellent job bringing the characters to life and moving the story at a quick pace. It was almost like reading fiction.
If you’re fascinated by the tumultuous times before WWII, this is a must read.
I received this book from St. Martin’s Press for this review.
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