I use the term 'Biography' to describe the type of 'historical-fiction' you will be reading in this novel. You will not only learn about world history, but about some of the players in the time of WWI and WWII. Not only will you learn about Winston Churchill, but you will get to know Lady Clementine (pronounced in Britain with a long 'e' as in Josephine). Through her research Ms. Benedict was able to make 'Clemmie' and all of the characters, including Winston Churchill, come alive in print. I have read many historical fiction stories, but only came away with the factual history. The warmth and depth of the characters that made the history seemed did not come alive. They seemed to be only words not people. Ms. Benedict's writing brought life to all of the participants in this story. Recommend.
While certainly not the best fictional "biography" I have read, with what I know about Winston Churchill's political life, as related in this book, it is obvious the author did her homework.
And she does not avoid the dark side of the sexual escapades of both Winston's and Clementine's parents. At that time British high society's moral standards were pretty low. In both cases, although she doesn't mention it about Winston, their biological fathers were not married to their mothers. The author covers the shortcomings of some of their children, especially of their only son. Actually, Randolph should have been drowned at birth, as he was a disgrace to his family.
And, as an American, I've always felt that the way Franklin Roosevelt treated Churchill toward the end of the war was a disgrace. But three of Roosevelt's four sons weren't all that great either, as they were little better than Randolph Churchill.
As this book is WLed by 37 members, I posted it for others to read.
And she does not avoid the dark side of the sexual escapades of both Winston's and Clementine's parents. At that time British high society's moral standards were pretty low. In both cases, although she doesn't mention it about Winston, their biological fathers were not married to their mothers. The author covers the shortcomings of some of their children, especially of their only son. Actually, Randolph should have been drowned at birth, as he was a disgrace to his family.
And, as an American, I've always felt that the way Franklin Roosevelt treated Churchill toward the end of the war was a disgrace. But three of Roosevelt's four sons weren't all that great either, as they were little better than Randolph Churchill.
As this book is WLed by 37 members, I posted it for others to read.
In 1909, Clementine Churchill steps off a train with her new husband, Winston. An angry woman emerges from the crowd to attack, shoving him in the direction of an oncoming train. Just before he stumbles, Clementine grabs him by his suit jacket. This will not be the last time Clementine Churchill saves her husband.
This was an interesting book about Mrs. Churchill. She was said to have had the most influence during World War I and World War II. This was a story of the brilliant and ambitious woman beside Winston Churchill, the story of a partner who did not flinch through the sweeping darkness of war, and who would not surrender either to expectations or to enemies. I enjoyed reading this book and will look for another book by Marie Benedict to read.
This was an interesting book about Mrs. Churchill. She was said to have had the most influence during World War I and World War II. This was a story of the brilliant and ambitious woman beside Winston Churchill, the story of a partner who did not flinch through the sweeping darkness of war, and who would not surrender either to expectations or to enemies. I enjoyed reading this book and will look for another book by Marie Benedict to read.
