If your only impression of Wallis Simpson, the twice-divorced American for whom King Edward VIII abdicated the throne of England, is that of a gold-digging schemer, prepare to have your world turned upside down after reading Wendy Holden's The Duchess. Holden, who researched the life of Wallis during COVID lockdown, glimpsed hints of a different woman during her studies ... one who, perhaps, actually did NOT want to sit upon the throne.

In The Duchess, Holden takes us through Wallis' second marriage to Ernest Simpson as she grapples with the stilted life she is leading in England as his wife, and demonstrates how Wallis clambered her way into London's society circles, climbing higher and higher in the social echelon until she was being invited to weekend getaways at the Prince of Wales' beloved Fort Belvedere as a guest of his mistress Thelma Furness. Before long, Wallis has caught the eye of the Prince himself, and from there, Wallis' life becomes a whirlwind of secrets and scandal. At the start, Wallis bore love and passion for the future King of England, but as his demands to marry her (she knows full well she is entirely unsuitable) press on, she finds herself suffocated by his adoration and desire to utterly consume her. We all know how this ends, but do we REALLY know Wallis Simpson?

I fully appreciate Holden prompting us to examine the woman who was Wallis Simpson through a completely new lens. Holden's portrayal of Wallis is entirely sympathetic, painting Wallis as more of a victim of chance and circumstance than a woman who actively pursued queendom. Considering primary source documents written by and about Wallis at the time, who is to say that she wasn't swept up in the tide, forced to bend to the will of one of the most powerful men in the world? Holden casts doubt in The Duchess, and it is a wholly enthralling ride. I loved every minute of this book, and so enjoyed seeing a different side of the notorious Wallis Simpson.

The story begins in 1928, when Wallis and her second husband move to England, so he can run their shipping business. The stock market crashes, money is tight, Wallis has no friends. She turns to the gossip magazines and lives vicariously through those stories. Gradually, she gathers friends - she only wants rich, well-known friends, and through these friends, she meets the playboy, Prince David, heir to the throne. They spend much time together, and she becomes a glorified social secretary (with benefits). Upon King George V's unexpected death, Prince David is faced with some tough decisions. Determined to keep Wallis and make her his wife, he goes against the entire British government, alienating people in all walks of his life. Did he really want an escape from the royal family, from his responsibilities as the new king? What role did Wallis play in all this?

The story bounces between the 1930s and 1972, with David's death finally allowing his body to be returned to England for burial. Wallis and David had been banned from setting foot in England for many years and the royal family remains aloof and cold, with the exception of Charles, who remembers her and his uncle David.

This was a well-crafted story, an attempt to paint a divisive person in a more positive light, and to help the reader realize that David really might have wanted out and used Wallis to accomplish that end.

I have mixed feelings about Wendy Holden's The Duchess. On one hand, I'm fascinated by Wallis Simpson and her infamous place in the British royal family. On the other... this book makes her utterly unlikable which I don't think was the author's intention! I found this book to be equally fascinating and agonizing. It was slow paced at times, yet had quite a bit of drama and plot at others so I never knew what to expect. I loved the historical story intertwined with scenes from the funeral of the abdicated king... such a great way to tell the story!

I do have to mention that there are some disturbing scenes related to sexual abuse. I was not expecting that. This book was interesting and seemed well researched. It will certainly be enjoyed by fans of The Crown and British historical fiction.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

I've always been intrigued by the Royals, and the inner workings of accession and succession, so this title caught my eye immediately. Told in in dual timelines, one at the death of Edward in 1972 and the other beginning from the marriage of Wallis to Earnest Simpson in 1928 and working toward Edward's abdication. Wallis has long had a damaged reputation as a schemer to gain a title and fortune, but this book tells the story of an abused, lonely woman who found a soulmate in the Prince.

I love historical fiction that books that drive me to research the characters, and this one had me looking up a lot of people. This was a beautiful love story and I recommend it for any who love historical fiction based on the famous of long ago.

This was such an interesting story about Wallis Simpson and the Royal family. Her story is told through a dual timeline: starting in 1972 then flashing back to 1928. This is a well-written and enthralling books. Perfect for fans of British royalty and biographies with artist license.

I really wanted to love this book because it was about Wallis Simpson. However, the author made Wallis to be a very unlikable character. She is very selfish, manipulative, uncaring and at times, ruthless. Therefore, I could not connect to this novel. Still, I recommend this fans of royalty!

Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.

I read the synopsis of this book and when I saw that it was about Wallis Simpson I knew that I needed to request it. I have read several books about Wallis and really enjoyed them. She certainly was a colorful character. Even though this book is 555 pages, it didn't seem that long. I really enjoyed it and the chapters that flash to the funeral of Wallis' husband. It was the first time that I had read anything by this author, but I will most certainly read another book by her. If you are a fan of the show "The Crown" enjoy reading about the Royal family, or enjoy Historical Fiction I would reccomend this book to you.

Trigger warning: sexual abuse

Wallis Simpson has a troubled past. Her first marriage was traumatic and her second is financially stable but lacking love or companionship. She's moved to London with her second husband, Ernest Simpson, and knows no one.

She by chance meets Thelma Morgan (Viscountess Furness, identical twin of Gloria Morgan Vanderbilt), who is the Prince of Wales' mistress. Wallis and Ernest are invited to spend the weekend at Fort Belvedere, the prince's house near Windsor Castle. Wallis is enchanted by the house (and the prince) and tries her hardest to get another invitation to the house. As Wallis continues to wine and dine with society ladies, she puts a strain on the Simpson finances.

When the famous custody trial Vanderbilt vs. Whitney (see The Woman Before Wallis by Bryn Turnbull) begins, Thelma leaves England for America to help her twin. She asks Wallis to keep an eye on the prince for her so he won't stray to another woman. Thelma thinks Wallis is too skinny and too old to attract the prince.

This novel's depiction of Wallis is interesting as she is content in her loveless marriage with Ernest Simpson, even though he is dismissed by high society. Wallis imagines her relationship with David will one day end because it cannot become something more. The Simpson divorce is depicted as being forced upon them by Edward VIII, even though they are Americans and he should have no sway over them. Wallis seems reluctant to marry David even though their tale is usually portrayed as one of star-crossed lovers. She is by far the more sensible of the two which is ironic because she may have been a great queen.

David's feelings for Wallis are always what the reader would expect, and the author makes him seem like he would be a good king. He maligns his father the king, especially over his abandonment of his cousin Tsar Nicholas that resulted in the latter's assassination. David feels for the poor citizens of England and wishes his father would do something to help them. As the majority of the novel takes place after World War I and before World War II, his affiliation with the Nazis is not shown.

The novel's narration vacillates between a middle-aged Wallis leading up to and during her early relationship with the future king, and the old Wallis returning to England for the first time since her exile to attend David's funeral.

Author Wendy Holden has already demonstrated her knowledge of the royal family during this era and ability to write about them as an outsider in The Royal Governess. Wallis' story both begins and ends as an outsider to the Windsor dynasty.

Recommended for British historical fiction fans and royal watchers.

THE DUCHESS is a beautifully written story filled with both history and a bit of scandal. In this type of book, an author has to peel back the curtain to give the reader the idea that we are there with the characters. And this is exactly what Holden does. She expertly tells a tale of love and the drama surrounding being royal.

The newest @wendyholdauthor royal read doesn't disappoint!! #partner @berkleypub

This intimate look at Wallis Simpson was wonderfully written. Never have I had compassion for the Duchess of Windsor in the way I did when I read this book.

Holden's portrayal of this controversial historical figure focused on the time period when Wallis and King Edward fell in love, but also the time period after his death.

I actually felt badly for both the king, who clearly didn't want the crown, and the woman he both loved and used to get out of his royal duties.

If you love royals, you must pick this one up!

Really enjoyed this book portraying Wallis Simpson in a favorable light. Fans of The Crown will really enjoy this, especially the relationship between Wallis and Prince Charles, who would understandably be curious about an uncle leaving the same position he will inherit. If you're a fan of historical fiction as well, this is a good pick.

Despite my love of history, the British royal family is never something I have paid much attention to, until I started binging The Crown on Netflix. It was through this not entirely complimentary lens that I first encountered Wallis Simpson, the heroine of Wendy Holden’s new book, The Duchess. Holden has a flair for portraying women that were vilified by the royals in a more positive –or at least neutral– light, allowing readers to consider less popular perspectives. As Diana Cooper wisely observes to Wallis at one point in the book, perhaps the “bad” women of history have always been made to seem negative and disagreeable, to serve the larger agenda of those in power at the time. In other words, as I often have pointed out to my students, history is written by the victors. In the case of Wallis Simpson, you can’t get much more victorious than the royal family in terms of ability to shape and manipulate public opinion.

Wallis Simpson - Wikipedia
Wallis grew up poor in Maryland, with a mother who was obsessed with social connections and family history. Her first marriage dissolved because of the severe abuse she suffered at the hands of her alcoholic husband, leaving her with what we would likely diagnose as PTSD today. For this reason, her marriage to her second husband, the steadfast and kind Earnest Simpson, was mostly celibate. So, imagine her surprise when the Prince of Wales was able to ignite a fiery and insatiable passion in her! The love shared by the Prince and Wallis is legendary, since he did renounce his claim to the British crown in order to marry the person referred to as “that woman” and “the adventuress” by his family and some of his close friends. Wallis has most popularly been viewed as a gold digging social climber, due in no small part to the influence that the royal family exerted over the British press corps. But beyond that, the Prince was enormously popular, given his concern for the British poor, and his attempts to modernize the monarchy and its connection to the people, leading many of his subjects to view Wallis with disdain. But, Holden poses the question: what if Wallis had no desire to be queen, and actually tried to dissuade the Prince from abdication, but was ignored because of his own agenda? Could it be that the Prince saw falling in love with, and marrying, a completely unsuitable bride as a convenient way out of a role that he viewed himself as unfit to hold?

Why Did Edward VIII Abdicate To Marry Wallis Simpson? - HistoryExtra
Holden did a great deal of research when writing this book, and it shows in the carefully explained timeline of events, and rendering of life in America, in Great Britain, and in the rest of Europe, during the time period that Wallis would have been alive. Although I am not quite sold on the interpretation of Wallis as a complete victim of her circumstances, I do appreciate the nuance that has been added to her story by this book. It is indeed an excellent reminder that history is often told from only one perspective, and that it is important to seek out alternate viewpoints. The only reason I knocked it down to a 4.5 was because it did drag on a bit in the middle, and at times Wallis’ fatalistic hand-wringing was quite annoying. Overall, for lovers of historical fiction, slow burn romance, and literary fiction, this book would be a great addition to the home library.

A fascinating look at one of the most controversial women in the twentieth century. I loved how Holden dug into Wallis’ history and imagined a new characterization for the duchess that takes a step back from the stories we all know.

I haven't read much historical fiction this year, but I will always jump at the chance to read a piece of historical fiction about the infamous British royal family. Wallis Simpson- a woman who single-handedly changed the course of the British monarchy forever. I have always found that part of the story very interesting and if I'm honest, somewhat romantic- a man giving up his chance to be king for the love of his life? Swoon. The Duchess offers another side to that story, and I enjoyed learning more about Wallis. Thank you to the publisher for giving me the chance to read this amazing story!

Of course I enjoyed this chatty work of historical fiction. The Duchess of Windsor is someone who has always fascinated me. Several other books in the past months have delved into her life, all of which I’ve devoured. The most interesting was “The Woman Before Wallis” so reading this version was an excellent companion piece. I enjoyed the different point of view.

Many years ago, I was at an event and was able to meet her and the Duke….so that totally sparked my desire to read everything about their lives. I really enjoyed this novel, despite this being historical fiction, I found that the author did an excellent job inputting lots of valuable information.

Thank you Netgalley for this opportunity to explore tge life of one of history’s most misunderstood women.

This book is great! Would definitely recommend. Thanks so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

Wallis Simpson ruined everything. At least that's the story we've all been told time and again. After all, King Edward abdicated his throne for her, shocking the entire British empire and deciding the fate of his brother, Bertie, and his young daughter, Elizabeth. The stories still grace the pages and screens even 80 years later. Her role in the abdication is unquestionable. Or is it? ⁠What else is there to know about one of the world's most famous women? ⁠⁠
⁠⁠
I love all things Windsor and this book was no exception. While it got off to a slow start, the latter half was a wild ride of gossip, couture, parties, castles, and emotional causalities. The dual timeline gives dimension to this fictional interpretation of one of the most famous couples of the the 20th century. I loved learning more about Wallis' personal history prior to meeting the Prince of Wales, as well as being privy to her inner thoughts and feelings as the relationship developed. I wasn't expecting to experience so much empathy toward her or their situation. Although the book is fictional, the author's notes reference many sources that informed her writing which leads the reader to believe there is possibly more fact than fiction. And if that's the case, my mind is completely changed about Mrs. Simpson.

When Wallis moves to London with her husband Ernest, her life is not quite what she expected. The two struggle financially and she longs for more. Wallis does everything she can to make connections with the rich and glamorous. One of her connections pays off, and she meets the Prince of Wales.

While the first half of the book was extremely captivating, it seemed Wallis' personality disappeared during the second half of the book. Despite this criticism, I did enjoy the book. Overall 4 out of 5 stars.

I've always loved all things around the Royal Family and love reading biographies, historical fiction and any books around them. The Duchess by Wendy Holden is a historical fiction on Wallis Simpson. Wallis's relationships with Edward VIII led to his abdication of the Crown in 1936.

She is one I don't know as much about but I've been fascinated about the twice divorced American who changed the course of history.

I liked the dual view of Wallis in 1972 back in England for her husband's funeral and how she was received by the Royals along with her life from 1928 to when she met the Prince of Wales.

My struggle with this book is not really knowing where the author took artistic license from the reality. I wanted a longer and more extensive author's note.

What an intriguing perspective on W&E. Mrs. Simpson has ALWAYS been the woman you loved to hate, but this book really gives a different perspective... What if the story WASN'T what you thought it was? The interspersion of the funeral and the courtship was very striking. Highly recommended especially for book clubs!