I could not finish enough of this book to be able to leave a comprehensive review, but I hope it finds its audience and I am grateful to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy.

Following "The Crown in Crisis", Alexander Larman gives us an extremely interesting fact-filled account of King George VI (Bertie) and his brother Edward (David), Duke of Windsor's strained relationship after Edward abdicated the throne and thru the turmoil of WWII.
This book contains never before seen information, much of which comes in the form of personal letters written between the two brothers at this tumultuous time.
What an eye-opener this book has proven to be!! While I had already formed my opinion on the abdication and on David himself from previous books I have read. This one just reinforced my opinion that David was a self-centered, whiney, narcissist whose actions were completely self-serving and dangerous. No wonder King George VI was on pins and needles over his strained relationship with his brother, he never knew what he would do or say next, it was like waiting for a volcano to erupt, not knowing when or how bad it would be.
No matter how often David sang his own praises that the people of England wanted him back as king and that he made a better king than his brother, I believe he had not an ounce of loyalty in him, not to crown or country, certainly not to family, and his only loyalties lie unto himself and his own pleasure and comfort. That he was easily influenced by Hitler and the Nazi party is no real surprise, he mostly comes across as a weak-minded, immature, child-man who could easily be persuaded by sweet talk and glitz!!
All in all this is a non-fiction book filled with facts that reads as easily as a fiction novel. If you like reading about the royal family, WWII and uneasy relationships, this is a book for you. I very much enjoyed both books by this author and recommend you read them both in order, although if you don't this one is filled with enough background detail that you won't be lost.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and to Net Galley for the free ARC, I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.

An excellent follow-up to The Crown in Crisis, in which David and Wallis misbehave in ways that threaten Great Britain’s safety during World War II. Abdicating was the best thing he ever did for his country.

I missed reading the first book about the Windsors by Alexander Larman, but this recent book was so full of details that I didn’t feel as if I came in in the middle of a story. Having already read quite a bit about England and Winston Churchill and WWII, I recognized many of the names within the pages of this book.

Having said that, I was hoping for more writing about the two brothers and their relationship, but in this book it seemed their relationship mostly consisted of letters and their staff carrying messages to each brother from the other.

I can understand the problem Edward presented during the war, having abdicated and needing to step aside to let George lead the country. Edward seemed blind to the fact that by abdicating he would lose his power and prestige. It was hard not to feel as if he was the big whiner all through the book, and constantly straddling the fence as to where his true loyalty lay. Personally, I feel he was loyal only to himself.

Reading this over 60 years later in history, it seems so silly that Wallis was treated so badly, yet now they are more willing to accept divorce and other scruples within the royal family. I could not help feeling that had the family accepted the marriage, they could have let Edward remain in England and kept more control over his activities and immediately put an end to his questionable behavior.

Readers who love History and WWII will find this interesting. I plan to read his first book at some point, just to get more background on the time when Edward abdicated.

Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for allowing me to read an advance copy.

This well-researched non-fiction includes information from newly released sources such as letters and previously sealed documents. It deals with primarily with the difficult relationship between David and the King in the years after the abdication through the war..

This is an interesting book about the Royal Family just before and during WWII. All the major players are there with all their issues and problems. It’s a history book, not historical fiction, although some of the things that went on read like historical fiction.
What separates this book from other history books are all of the quotes the author puts gives us.
They come from letters, telegrams, diaries, etc., and they give you a real glimpse into the real people on the page. 4 stars.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed as in this review are completely my own.

The Windsors at War
The King, His Brother, and a Family Divided
by Alexander Larman
Pub Date 18 Apr 2023
St. Martins Press
Biographies & Memoirs | History | Nonfiction (Adult)


The Windsors At War has been provided to me by St. Martin's Press, in conjunction with Netgalley:


Alexander Larman continues his biographical account of the Windsor family as they struggle against Adolf Hitler and each other throughout World War II.


The British monarchy was in turmoil at the beginning of 1937. Edward VIII abdicated the throne, leaving his frightened and unprepared brother Bertie to become George VI, surrounded by a gaggle of courtiers and politicians who barely considered him capable. As the now-Duke of Windsor awaited the decree that would permit him to marry his mistress Wallis Simpson, he became increasingly concerned with Adolf Hitler's expansionist plans. Perhaps he even went so far as to betray his country. As double agents and Nazi spies thronged the corridors of Buckingham Palace, Winston Churchill was the only man the King could trust. Their adversary, however, was formidable, perhaps even unbeatable: his own brother.



With a fresh focus on the royal family, their conflicted relationships, and the events which rocked the international press, The Windsors at War reveals the never-before-told story of World War Two in Britain and America. What led this dysfunctional, squabbling family to put aside their differences in order to unite to help win the greatest war of their lives? The Crown in Crisis author Alexander Larman now chronicles the Windsor family's conflict with Germany and their relationship with one another.


I give The Windsors At War five out of five Stars!


Happy Reading!

An interesting and informative read. As someone who enjoys both biographies and historical nonfiction, this was a great mix of both. A more detailed review will be coming soon.

Title: The Windsors at War
Author: Alexander Larman
Release Date: April 19th, 2023
Page Count: 660
Format: Netgalley and Audiobook
Start Date: April 8th, 2023
Finish Date: April 16th, 2023

Rating: 4 Stars

Review:

There was a lot of things in this book that I wasn't aware of before. Some things that were referenced I'd learned from other methods. I wasn't aware that this was a "sequel" until I'd already started the book. It doesn't really affect anything. I did however buy the other book in audiobook so that I can go back and listen to it when I'm able to. Especially with all of the references to that book that were made in this one. Definitely a history book that's worth the read.

Important to Note: Nonfiction book about WW2

Well, alrighty then.
This book picks up where the first book leaves off and WHOOSH, what a wild ride. I learned so much [much of it NOT good in regards to the the Duke of Windsor {COULD he have been a bigger whiner? I highly doubt it}, which really shouldn't be a surprise to ANYONE] and with the way the book ends, I am hoping for a book 3. ;-)

If you love history [including British history], are interested in the Monarchy [especially before and during WW2], and want to learn things that have never really been talked about, this book is for you [I highly recommend that you read the author's first book "The Crown in Crisis" before diving into this book]. I highly recommend it.

I was lucky enough to have my audiobook request granted and WOW, what a great narrator. I would have loved this book regardless, but the great narration was just icing on the cake. Sophie Roberts does an amazing job and I can only hope that I find other books to read that she narrates.

Thank you to NetGalley, Alexander Larman, Sophie Roberts - Narrator, St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for providing both the book and audiobook ARCS in exchange for an honest review.

As a young and impressionable teenager back at the dawn of time or the 1960s, I, like so many others, was held under the thrall of the terribly romantic story about a King who gave up his throne for the woman he loved. It was only as I learned more throughout my years and as more information leaked out, I became aware at how erroneous that image was. This was a man whose hubris and ego was unmatched. Not unlike his Great-Great Nephew today, he wanted his cake and to eat it too. Anyone who dared to suggest he make a decision and stand by it was at best a fool and at worst an enemy. He was a thoroughly despicable man.

He was also a very dangerous man. And when George VI took the throne, it was the best thing that could have happened to the world. The thought of Edward as King in WWII is unthinkable. He was a Nazi friend and sympathizer from the mid 1930s and he became a willing pawn of theirs as war approached and while the author does not state without any doubt that he was a traitor, there is some solid evidence to indicate that is not out the realm of possibility.

This is a “tell it like it is” book that pulls few punches. By the time war was declared even his most ardent supporters at the time of his abdication realized what sort of man he was. Vitriolic, narcissistic, self serving and vile. Any lingering remnants of empathy for the Duke and Duchess that might have emerged from The Crown will be dashed forever. Too bad history has to repeat itself. Five purrs and two paws up.

The Windsors at War
By Alexander Larman

This book begins with the abdication of Edward VIII of the crown of England and the subsequent ascension of George VI as king. It tells the story of the struggles which an unprepared George faced in replacing his selfish, spoiled – but popular – brother. The consequences for both king and country cannot be overstated. George, initially a retiring and less popular man, not only needed to shore up the image of the royal family, but also to face and overcome the challenges of World War II.

While many books have been written about Britain and the war, this one is unique in providing a parallel story line concerning the ongoing difficulties caused by Edward and his wife, Wallis Simpson. While finding themselves in a situation of their own making, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor never failed to complain and blame others for their predicament. Thus the king, his family and his ministers had to deal with all this personal drama while trying to inspire Britain in its battle against Nazi Germany.

I found this a fascinating look behind the scenes at the intrigues going on throughout these years. It left me with a much clearer view of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor – and a much greater respect for King George VI.

Over the year, the abdication of Edward VIII has developed a patina, especially in the United States. usually belonging to romance novels. The Windsors at War, the companion to Alexander Larman's previous work, The Crown in Crisis, presents the life of Edward, Duke of Windsor, after his abdication, showing both the pettiness of his relations with the Windsors and how his certainty that he belonged on the throne, and how the people of Britain would support the return of his reign.

The Duke of Windsor's attempts to stay in the public eye to demonstrate how he was superior to George VI are sprinkled throughout the first part of the book. The result is that he comes across as more of a soap opera character than a Royal.

It's at this point that Nazi Germany and the relationship between the Duke and high-ranking members of the Nazi party is laid out. The Duke is now more than an annoyance and may be dangerous to Britain, especially after the war is declared. The fear that the Duke of Windsor would work to overthrow the government has become real, and as a result, Duke is shuttled throughout Europe and ultimately to the Bahamas.

Alexander Larman' has meticulously researched the Duke of Windsor, and even though in the Dramatis Personae, the Duke is described as a constant irritant to the royal family, he emerges as more than a pasteboard villain, and the tragedy of a life wasted breaks through.

I'd recommend The Windsors at War for students of Modern British History, World War II, and anyone who wants to know about Edward, Duke of Windsor, without the romantic glaze applied to his life over the years.

Four and one-half stars: Very Highly Recommended

Excellent Sequel to the Crown in Crisis

In 1937 the Duke of Windsor was married to his great love, Wallis Simpson, and his brother, Bertie, was George VI. Bertie was shy and unlike his brother, Edward VIII, had not been trained to be king. However, the war was on and wanting to do his duty, he stepped up to rally the English people, and he and Queen Elizabeth became an example for his subjects.

This book is a sequel to “The Crown in Crisis.” It continues the story of the friction between the brothers. The Duke of Windsor remained self-centered wanting privileges, but not interested in performing the arduous duties required of a king at war. He went so far as to makes friends with Hitler. The book looks how far he went in possibly betraying his country.

This is a well researched book that has the pace of good fiction. It is occasionally heavy on facts, but facts are necessary to understand the world situation at the time. The book is history, but we also get a good look at the people who made the history. In addition to the Windsors, Winston Churchill played a major role in helping Bertie steer the country. There are many other players who had no major role, but the description of their activities helps flesh out the picture of the war years in England.

I highly recommend this book is you’re interested in the history of WWII, particularly the part played the Windsor brothers.

I received this book from St. Martin’s Press for this review.

The Windsors at War picks up where The Crown in Crisis left off. Focusing for the most part on the conflict in the family - between David, King Edward VIII and Bertie, King George VI. David was a self-centered man who loved the trappings of being King but to heck with the work that went along with the title. He wanted to marry Wallis and make her his queen and he never stopped hounding his brother to try and make it a reality. So what that London was being bombed and Hitler was knocking on the door trying to make Great Britain part of his empire. David wanted more money for his lavish lifestyle, he wanted to be in the spotlight...all about him. No wonder Hitler paid attention to him. Hitler was smart enough to see an opportunity when it showed up. During the war his spies and fascists were all over places like Buckingham Palace and the government in general. After reading The Windsors at War, I'm certain that it was a good thing that Edward VIII abdicated and George VI became King.
Rich in detail and well researched with a smooth writing style, The Windsors at War gives us a look at a family in upheaval at a pivotal point in world history. We see the good and the bad of the Windsor family, weaknesses and strengths and, after finishing this second of the series, I'm looking forward to the third entry which will put Queen Elizabeth on center stage. If you enjoy British history then this series must be on your TBR list.
My thanks to the publisher St. Martin's Press and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

Larkin explores the role of former king, the Duke of Windsor and his wife Wallis during WWII.
Despite his assertion that not much has been written about the subject, I have found the subject has been rejuvenated countless times recently.
His work incorporates a tinge of gossip while striving to be scholarly.
It’s an interesting look at a couple who made choices and then tried very hard to be relevant.

It was in 1937 that King Edward VIII abdicated the throne to marry the twice-divorced American, Wallis Simpson. This left his younger brother Bertie, next in line to become king. Bertie was a shy man with a stutter who never dreamed he would be thrust into this role.
But, King George VI, Bertie and his wife, Queen Elizabeth, bravely took on their roles.

Edward demanded money and a proper place to live which became his lament throughout his life. He was given an allowance and a title of the Duke of Windsor. He also demanded that Wallis be called Her Royal Highness which was denied. Later, she was called the Duchess, but I never did learn if she received this title officially or if she simply assumed it.

Edward was a Nazi sympathizer with a friendship with Hitler. This was very distressing for Bertie and all of Britain as they were under threat of war from Germany. In order to appease Edward, he was given the duty of Governor of the Bahamas that would hopefully keep him busy and away from Germany.

We see how Britain is bombed and how Bertie and Elizabeth kept the country cheered up during the war and stayed in London so as not to desert their people. Winston Churchill became Prime Minister at this time and was a great strength for Britain. I have read numerous books about Churchill and admire him immensely. I was surprised to learn that early on, he supported Edward until he saw more of his greediness and arrogance as time went on.

Edward did so much to express his anger and disappointment at literally being ostracized by his family, but they stayed strong against his selfishness.

A big point that comes out in this book is how the lives of Edward and Wallis are so parallel to Harry and Meghan. Incredible!

All in all, this was a great book that gave more information out than I have ever learned before. Quite a terrific job by this author. If you love the history of the English Royal Family, do read this.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

If I had any complaint about this book, it would be that there was more of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor than I would have wished, and not enough of the interesting but reclusive George VI and especially his wife, Queen Elizabeth.

I believe this is Larman's second book about these people in the middle of the twentieth century. He seems to have striven to provide a balanced view of Edward "David" Windsor, king for a brief time, until he fell for a twice-divorced American woman who apparently fell in love with the image of herself as queen of England (or at least a princess), both of whom might have been willing to schmooze with Hitler and his gang of pustules in order to get their thrones. He always sounded like a pathetic whiner, finding the few duties of kinging too arduous, and feeling that the world owed him a luxurious living because of his pedigree. A tedious pair, if basically harmless, unlike some of those they sponged off of. I felt sorry for the people of the Bahamas, stuck with that pair of snobbish racists and Nazi sympathizers as governors for five years.

Meanwhile, what we get about the quiet king is intriguing, even if it's difficult to get inside his head to any degree. He was never trained for the job, but he rose to the occasion, bolstered by the smart, charming woman he'd been lucky enough to marry. That he did rise to the occasion appears to have surprised him as well as the world, especially as he got stuck with World War II as his refiner's fire.

He and the queen insisted on remaining in London through the bombing. They visited the bombed villages, eventually earning the respect of that bulldog Winston Churchill. Though the kings of England no longer ruled, only reigned, according to this book George did a bang-up job during a time when he was needed most as an inspiring public figure. One can only wonder what a hash Edward would have made of dealing with bombs and refugees, with or without Wallis and her tiara at his side.

There are A LOT of characters in this book. The author provides a Dramatic Personae right up front, which I found enormously helpful. And we get a glimpse of all the main figures of the time, such as the popular Duke of of Kent, the king's younger brother, and various Parliamentary and governmental figures. We also read about young Princess Elizabeth getting her training in modern queenship as the war finally crashed to its end; this book ends well before she made "the wedding of the century." I wonder if Larman is going to go on with the postwar Windsors and the Cold War era.

This is a stylishly written, well-researched and footnoted work, worthy of a place on the bookshelves of anyone interested in World War II, and the personalities who dominated the news in those days.

The Windsors at War is a truly enlightening and politically astute work that has been meticulously researched. Its narrative pace is akin to that of a champion thoroughbred, making it a captivating read. Furthermore, it provides an eloquent examination of the complex relationship between two royal brothers, as well as the themes of duty and betrayal.

Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this Advanced Reader Copy and the opportunity to review “The Windsors at War.” All opinions and comments are my own.

Building on the circumstances and history related and remembered in his earlier work covering the 1936 abdication of Edward VIII (“The Crown in Crisis”), Alexander Larman’s “The Windsors at War” (subtitled “The King, His Brother and a Family Divided”) is a detailed study of the contentious discord taking place immediately and long after, when Edward renounced the throne, left the shores of England and became “merely” the Duke of Windsor. And what a long, strange trip it would come to be.

A knowledge of the times and the people mentioned is somewhat presumed when understanding the contents (and context) of “The Windsors at War.” This is not a book for someone who does not have a good grounding in the historical period under discussion. Larman does help by including a Dramatis Personae list, putting the main participants into author-designated “sections.” High (and low) society, indeed.

Already we are made to know that this will not be a sympathetic portrait -- Larman calls Edward the “former king and continued irritant.” And the theme is carried on throughout the book. Plenty of other biographies and histories of the time bear this out; Larman uses quotes from these books to great effect. What author Larman has done with access to new research, is emphasize the continued distraction the duke was to the new king and queen, and how they had no choice but to see him as a threat to the monarchy, by virtue of his ties to the wrong people and wrong political ideologies (even eventually to “a sympathy for the nation they were fighting”); and consequently, how close the duke (and his duchess) could be considered traitors to King and Country.

And if this wasn’t bad enough, there remained the ability that the duke had for repeatedly saying and doing the wrong thing (in France, on visits to America and later, as governor in the Bahamas), which Larman relates with relish. The final nail in the duke’s metaphorical coffin remained the constant battering he engaged in to get his wife recognized in the way he thought she deserved, i.e., as HRH. Larman makes it quite clear that this was never, ever going to happen. She had begun as “that woman,” and as “that woman” she would stay, through their marriage and beyond.

Thus, “pettiness and inadequacy of character” dogged Edward throughout the remainder of his life, from his governorship (which he didn’t want and disliked intensely) to constant nagging about his financial woes and the treatment of his wife (which he should have perhaps seen coming, given the tenor of the times. Prescience was never the duke’s strong suit). Larman chronicles it all, laying everything out in clinical fashion. Is there some compassion to be had for the duke and duchess? Probably not, unless one wishes to conjure up sadness for the image of someone knocking on a door that no one will ever feel like opening. Larman makes the case that they are actually lucky that they were not treated more harshly, given their Nazi sympathies (this from documents relating their pro-German sentiments which were found and suppressed after the war). Being born to the purple saved them (well, one of them by birth and the other from association) from that.

And so, life would go on for the Windsors, because nothing would be done for or against them. Alexander Larman has put together a cogent volume of facts and explanations and word pictures of two narcissistic people that found themselves occupying a shaky public persona during the period. It was just not the one that Edward, Duke of Windsor assumed that he and his wife would be taking up after denying himself the throne.