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Once a King

The Lost Memoir of Edward VIII

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Once a King

By: Jane Marguerite Tippett
Narrated by: Esther Wane, Gregory Cox
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About this listen

A retelling of the story of the Duke of Windsor - King Edward VIII, who gave up his throne to marry the woman he loved.

Using never before seen sources, Once a King is a fresh, revelatory and gripping insight into the Duke of Windsor - King Edward VIII - who gave up the throne to marry the woman he loved, twice divorced American Wallis Simpson.

Considering Edward VIII's travels and interests as Prince of Wales as well as his relationship with Wallis Simpson and the course of events leading up to his abdication and subsequent exile, Once a King offers a previously unexplored lens through which we encounter first-hand the hitherto concealed subtlety and raw emotion of two of the twentieth century's most iconic Royal figures: the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.

©2023 Jane Marguerite Tippett (P)2023 Hodder & Stoughton Limited Politics & Activism Royalty Memoir Divorce
All stars
Most relevant  
Well written, factual, honest and at times eye opening.

I absolutely loved this book, shows a human side to a part of history that was glossed over previously, and now seems all but forgotten.

If only modern members of the royal family had the same respect and dignity shown by Edward.

Well worth it

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This book sheds fascinating new light on Edward and Wallis as Tippett examines the writings and notes of their biographer, Charles Murphy. Murphy worked with them in the 1940s and 1950s and developed a friendship during this time. From Murphy's notes we hear directly from Edward and Wallis as they reflect on their romance and the abdication. Painting the broader scene are quotes from the powerful people exerting influence: The Royal Family and courtiers, politicians, the Establishment, the Media, the Church and, to a lesser extent, the general public, Both Edward and Wallis appear as more sensitive and thoughtful than biographies have suggested although, because this book is confined largely to Murphy's work, many important topics are not covered. This is a book for anyone who has already read biographies of Edward and Wallis and is interested in their perspectives in their own words. The question of Edward's 'pro-Nazi' views is covered. The lingering perennial question is - when does an ardent peace activist become a collaborator.

The book holds interest from first to last page and is well written and well paced. It is a pity that both Tippett and her editor missed the class when hanging participles were taught. Both narrators do an excellent job.

A very important book

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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.