This week, we have a special guest, author Jane Tippett, who has written a new book about Edward VIII called Once a King: The Lost Memoir of Edward VIII. Tippett discusses her book on the abdication crisis and the life of King Edward VIII. She talks about her research process and the surprising access she had to the Royal Archives. Tippett explores Edward’s role as a writer and the significance of his memoirs. She also addresses the controversy surrounding Edward’s relationship with Nazi Germany and dispels misconceptions. Tippett highlights the complex dynamics between Edward, his ghostwriter Charles Murphy, and figures like Winston Churchill. Overall, this interview and her book offer a fresh perspective on Edward’s life and the challenges prevailing in the narratives. Links Once a King: The Lost Memoir of Edward VIII on Amazon Abdication Crisis Article on Anglotopia Win a signed copy of Once a King Jane Tippett Official Website Edward and Mrs Simpson Drama The Royal Archives Takeaways Author Jane Tippett had surprising access to the Royal Archives for her research on King Edward VIII and the abdication crisis. Edward’s memoirs, written with the help of ghostwriter Charles Murphy, offer a new perspective on his life and challenge prevailing narratives. Tippett dispels misconceptions about Edward’s relationship with Nazi Germany and highlights his role as an appeaser. Winston Churchill played a complex role in the abdication crisis and had a strained relationship with Edward during the writing of his memoirs. The book provides a fresh lens on significant moments in history and offers insights into Edward’s humanity and individuality. Sound Bites “Edward’s memoirs offer a new perspective on his life and challenge prevailing narratives.” “Churchill’s role in the abdication crisis was complex and had implications for his own political career.” “One of the most surprising threads in the research was discovering Edward’s talent as a writer.” Chapters 00:00 The Abdication Crisis and King Edward VIII 04:08 Charles Murphy: Shaping Edward’s Memoir 13:54 Edward’s Relationship with Nazi Germany 23:17 Edward’s Life in the Bahamas 25:17 The Fictionalized Portrayal of Edward’s Story 28:51 Edward’s Memoirs and Misconceptions 31:05 The Royal Family’s Reaction 32:57 Accessing the Royal Archives 35:39 Edward as a Writer 40:19 Winston Churchill’s Role 46:13 A New Perspective on Edward 47:00 Jane Tippett’s Next Book