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George VI and Elizabeth: The Marriage That Saved the Monarchy
A revelatory account of how the loving marriage of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth saved the monarchy during World War II, and how they raised their daughter to become Queen Elizabeth II, based on exclusive access to the Royal Archives—from the bestselling author of Elizabeth the Queen and Prince Charles
“An intimate and gripping portrait of a royal marriage that survived betrayal, tragedy, and war.”—Amanda Foreman, bestselling author of Duchess of Devonshire
Granted special access by Queen Elizabeth II to her parents’ letters and diaries and to the papers of their close friends and family, Sally Bedell Smith brings the love story of this iconic royal couple to vibrant life. This deeply researched and revealing book shows how a loving and devoted marriage helped the King and Queen meet the challenges of World War II, lead a nation, solidify the public’s faith in the monarchy, and raise their daughters, Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret.
When King Edward VIII abdicated the throne in 1936, shattering the Crown’s reputation, his younger brother, known as Bertie, assumed his father’s name and became King George VI. Shy, sensitive, and afflicted with a stutter, George VI had never imagined that he would become King. His wife, Elizabeth, a pretty, confident, and outgoing woman who became known later in life as “the Queen Mum,” strengthened and advised her husband. With his wife’s support, guidance, and love, George VI was able to overcome his insecurities and become an exceptional leader, navigating the country through World War II, establishing a relationship with Winston Churchill, visiting Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt in Washington and in Hyde Park, and inspiring the British people with his courage and compassion during the Blitz. Simultaneously, George VI and Elizabeth trained their daughter Princess Elizabeth from an early age to be a highly successful monarch, and she would reign for an unprecedented seventy years.
Sally Bedell Smith gives us an inside view of the lives, struggles, hopes, and triumphs of King George VI and Elizabeth during a pivotal time in history.
“An intimate and gripping portrait of a royal marriage that survived betrayal, tragedy, and war.”—Amanda Foreman, bestselling author of Duchess of Devonshire
Granted special access by Queen Elizabeth II to her parents’ letters and diaries and to the papers of their close friends and family, Sally Bedell Smith brings the love story of this iconic royal couple to vibrant life. This deeply researched and revealing book shows how a loving and devoted marriage helped the King and Queen meet the challenges of World War II, lead a nation, solidify the public’s faith in the monarchy, and raise their daughters, Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret.
When King Edward VIII abdicated the throne in 1936, shattering the Crown’s reputation, his younger brother, known as Bertie, assumed his father’s name and became King George VI. Shy, sensitive, and afflicted with a stutter, George VI had never imagined that he would become King. His wife, Elizabeth, a pretty, confident, and outgoing woman who became known later in life as “the Queen Mum,” strengthened and advised her husband. With his wife’s support, guidance, and love, George VI was able to overcome his insecurities and become an exceptional leader, navigating the country through World War II, establishing a relationship with Winston Churchill, visiting Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt in Washington and in Hyde Park, and inspiring the British people with his courage and compassion during the Blitz. Simultaneously, George VI and Elizabeth trained their daughter Princess Elizabeth from an early age to be a highly successful monarch, and she would reign for an unprecedented seventy years.
Sally Bedell Smith gives us an inside view of the lives, struggles, hopes, and triumphs of King George VI and Elizabeth during a pivotal time in history.
1083 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2023
About the author
Sally Bedell Smith
15 books304 followersAuthor of six biographies: Elizabeth the Queen: The Life of a Modern Monarch (Random House 2102); For Love of Politics: Bill and Hillary Clinton: The White House Years (Random House 2007); Grace and Power: The Private World of the Kennedy White House (Random House 2004); Diana In Search of Herself: Portrait of a Troubled Princess (Random House 2004); Reflected Glory: The Life of Pamela Churchill Harriman (Simon & Schuster, 1996); In All His Glory: The Life and Times of William S. Paley and the Birth of Modern Broadcasting (Simon & Schuster, 1990).
Contributing Editor at Vanity Fair since 1996.
Previously cultural news reporter for The New York Times, staff writer for TV Guide, and reporter-researcher for Time Magazine.
Awarded the Sigma Delta Chi Distinguished Service Award for magazine reporting in 1982; fellow at the Freedom Forum Media Studies Center at Columbia University from 1986 to 1987.
B.A. from Wheaton College and M.S. from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.
Contributing Editor at Vanity Fair since 1996.
Previously cultural news reporter for The New York Times, staff writer for TV Guide, and reporter-researcher for Time Magazine.
Awarded the Sigma Delta Chi Distinguished Service Award for magazine reporting in 1982; fellow at the Freedom Forum Media Studies Center at Columbia University from 1986 to 1987.
B.A. from Wheaton College and M.S. from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
March 19, 2023
Sally Bedell Smith is a veteran British royalty author who has written some excellent biographies in the past, especially one on (then) Prince Charles several years ago (imagine making him interesting!). This offering focuses on the late Queen Elizabeth II's parents, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. The author was given access to a trove of letters and documents which she liberally included throughout the narrative, adding such authenticity and personalization to this history.
My favorite part of the book was near the beginning where Prince Albert first takes notice of Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. His laser focus love for her never wavered, and he persisted over some time with three wedding proposals until she finally accepted. What followed was a loyal, loving and supportive marriage that strengthened the monarchy at a time when it really needed it- after Albert's older brother David renounced the throne to marry double divorcee Wallis Simpson. The unassuming (but rock steady) Prince Albert unexpectedly was thrust into becoming King. He bravely navigated challenges such as a lifelong stutter and World War II, where he was intricately involved with his Prime Minister, the legendary Winston Churchill. And he relied heavily on his wife Elizabeth, utterly respecting her advice and including her in all matters of state. Hitler once called her "the most dangerous woman in Europe". But her husband King George VI called her "my angel".
This is a quite lengthy, thorough tome covering the subject- over 700 pages. The last 30% consists of Acknowlegements, Sources, Illustration Credits and About the Author. I'm not big on reading about war, and a lot of King George VI's reign was tied up with the hardship of WWII. However, the depiction of how this monarch, with the unwavering support of his wife led the nation during such a precarious time was very important. As his wife and mother (Queen Mary) felt, it probably helped cut his life short as he took his role so seriously. This is an excellent biography of this iconic royal couple who indeed saved the monarchy!
Thank you to the publisher Random House for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
My favorite part of the book was near the beginning where Prince Albert first takes notice of Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. His laser focus love for her never wavered, and he persisted over some time with three wedding proposals until she finally accepted. What followed was a loyal, loving and supportive marriage that strengthened the monarchy at a time when it really needed it- after Albert's older brother David renounced the throne to marry double divorcee Wallis Simpson. The unassuming (but rock steady) Prince Albert unexpectedly was thrust into becoming King. He bravely navigated challenges such as a lifelong stutter and World War II, where he was intricately involved with his Prime Minister, the legendary Winston Churchill. And he relied heavily on his wife Elizabeth, utterly respecting her advice and including her in all matters of state. Hitler once called her "the most dangerous woman in Europe". But her husband King George VI called her "my angel".
This is a quite lengthy, thorough tome covering the subject- over 700 pages. The last 30% consists of Acknowlegements, Sources, Illustration Credits and About the Author. I'm not big on reading about war, and a lot of King George VI's reign was tied up with the hardship of WWII. However, the depiction of how this monarch, with the unwavering support of his wife led the nation during such a precarious time was very important. As his wife and mother (Queen Mary) felt, it probably helped cut his life short as he took his role so seriously. This is an excellent biography of this iconic royal couple who indeed saved the monarchy!
Thank you to the publisher Random House for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
Shelved as 'dnf'
April 11, 2023This is a Non-Fiction Book. I found the first part of this book very interesting, but then I found it to be very boring. I had trouble following who they were talking about at times. I would like to say I do not read a ton of non-fiction books, so that could be a lot of the problem. I just do not think this book was the book for me. I did end up DNFing this book around 30%. There are some really cool pictures in this book that I really enjoyed. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
October 31, 2022
I was approved for a copy of this book shortly after the sad death of Queen Elizabeth II and this turned out to be a fascinating way to revisit her origins and childhood through the love story of her parents. I've read other books from Sally Bedell Smith and have always been pleased - but this one in particular seemed to be very well-researched. I really enjoyed reading in detail about other parts of George VI's life that gets glossed over in other biographies - particularly his courtship and the early part of his marriage with Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. The section about WWII was also quote good.
Highly recommend this book - to both the casual reader and the experienced royal watcher who thinks they've read it all.
Highly recommend this book - to both the casual reader and the experienced royal watcher who thinks they've read it all.
May 10, 2023
WHEW! This is one big book, with L O T S of information. And I have to admit that it was really weird to be reading this whilst the coronation for King Charles was going on [even though the events of this book are 75+ years ago, the way it is written just sucks you in and I often had to re-orientate myself when I was done listening for the day]. I knew a lot of this story peripherally, but not in-depth and this was V E R Y in-depth and really opened up the Monarchy [for the good AND the bad <--The Duke of Windsor anyone? YIKES] for me and what initially seemed like an overwhelming challenge of a read, really became an awesome history lesson. Well researched, well written and excellently narrated by Rosalyn Landor, this is a MUST for any fan of history and/or the Monarchy. Very well done.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sally Bedell Smith, and Random House Publishing Group/Random House for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sally Bedell Smith, and Random House Publishing Group/Random House for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2023
3.5 I wanted to read this because I wanted to know more about George VI after rewatching the King’s Speech. And, I guess it was adequate in giving me more background to his marriage and reign. But, in a way, it was also somewhat disappointing in that the author has pretty much unparalleled access to the royal family and its archives and to protect that, has pretty much written a one dimensional portrait of the couple, allowing no warts to show, and protecting the current monarchy and system. I get it, but as a historian I think she should do better.
September 18, 2023
4.5
It was a great insight to the former King and Queen.
It was a great insight to the former King and Queen.
April 21, 2023
I enjoyed this in-depth nonfiction book on King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. Replete with the many details garnered by the access to letters and diaries provided by Queen Elizabeth II prior to her death, as well as to papers by close family and friends, this is an intimate depiction of the lives and relationship between the king and his wife. Bertie, particularly is to be admired - he struggled but persevered. He overcame significant personal physical and health obstacles, but strove to be a noble and admirable king - to lead the country that was challenged both internally and externally during his reign. Queen Elizabeth’s contributions and amazing support of her husband during his entire life was critical to his success. He would not have been able to be the king he became if not for her. Their story is told exceedingly well with significant research and attributions lending authenticity to the book. It was a long read and it took me weeks to finish but it was well worth the investment of time. I often thought of the movie The King’s Speech, which I enjoyed immensely years ago. Together with this book one gets a great perspective of the character and personality of both King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. I highly recommend this book. Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 10, 2023
Really enjoyed this one. I’ve read other biographies by Sally Bedell Smith, and I think this is one of the first times where I’ve truly grasped the scope of her research in crafting these biographies. It’s quite remarkable. Definitely worthy of note was that Queen Elizabeth II granted Bedell Smith access to the Royal Archives at Windsor, and extensive access to the private papers and diaries of King George and Queen Elizabeth. This was a huge deal because Bedell Smith isn’t one of the “official” Royal biographers. The scope and breadth of this book is truly remarkable, and I appreciated how she put this singular relationship in context of wider world politics, and didn’t shy away from talking about the colonialism of the British Empire.
I definitely learned a lot in this book — Albert proposed THREE times before Elizabeth said yes, third time’s the charm lol; AND a fact that will stick with me forever for some reason, but the British did not repay their WWII/Lend-Lease act $85 million debt until 2006. A) that is…a long time, I was shocked by seeing the 200— year, and b) that is so much money what is that adjusted for inflation or???? The WWII years were fascinating to read about, as a WWII history buff, but I actually found it more interesting to read about Elizabeth and Bertie pre and post-WWII. I didn’t know much about Elizabeth, and I admit I was kind of surprised, and delighted, by her extremely close-knit family.
When I was younger, I used to lap up any and all information about the British Royal Family. As an adult, I still do, however, I feel less “rose colored glasses” about it, trying to reconcile my fascination with sparkly royalty with the fact that the British empire had far reaching impact around the globe, and the shockwaves are still being felt today (partition of India, for example).
Overall, really fascinating and well researched biography, and just *thinking* about the process of putting this book together makes my head hurt slightly.
I definitely learned a lot in this book — Albert proposed THREE times before Elizabeth said yes, third time’s the charm lol; AND a fact that will stick with me forever for some reason, but the British did not repay their WWII/Lend-Lease act $85 million debt until 2006. A) that is…a long time, I was shocked by seeing the 200— year, and b) that is so much money what is that adjusted for inflation or???? The WWII years were fascinating to read about, as a WWII history buff, but I actually found it more interesting to read about Elizabeth and Bertie pre and post-WWII. I didn’t know much about Elizabeth, and I admit I was kind of surprised, and delighted, by her extremely close-knit family.
When I was younger, I used to lap up any and all information about the British Royal Family. As an adult, I still do, however, I feel less “rose colored glasses” about it, trying to reconcile my fascination with sparkly royalty with the fact that the British empire had far reaching impact around the globe, and the shockwaves are still being felt today (partition of India, for example).
Overall, really fascinating and well researched biography, and just *thinking* about the process of putting this book together makes my head hurt slightly.
September 26, 2022
George VI and Elizabeth: The Marriage That Saved the Monarchy by Sally Bedell Smith is a wonderful nonfiction that highlights the individuals separately and together that helped form England’s modern history: King George VI and his wife Queen Elizabeth.
I have really enjoyed the author’s take on Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III in her previous biographies, so of course I was excited to read this one. It did not disappoint.
I always love the author’s way with words. How she crafts history and nonfiction into effortless works of art. No matter the content, I seem to fly through the works with ease.
Her passion, research, and effort shine through in this book where she focuses on the individuals Lady Elizabeth Bowes Lyon and Prince Albert as they were before marriage, and of the time during their marriage. The in-depth look was fascinating, illuminating, and respectful. It definitely does justice to a wonderful couple.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Random House Publishing Group for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 4/4/23.
I have really enjoyed the author’s take on Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III in her previous biographies, so of course I was excited to read this one. It did not disappoint.
I always love the author’s way with words. How she crafts history and nonfiction into effortless works of art. No matter the content, I seem to fly through the works with ease.
Her passion, research, and effort shine through in this book where she focuses on the individuals Lady Elizabeth Bowes Lyon and Prince Albert as they were before marriage, and of the time during their marriage. The in-depth look was fascinating, illuminating, and respectful. It definitely does justice to a wonderful couple.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Random House Publishing Group for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 4/4/23.
October 30, 2023
An excellent joint biography of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth providing an well researched, well written and insightful study of their personalities and their impact on the development of the monarchy. The early chapters that reconstruct their long courtship and the future King George VI's multiple marriage proposals are especially well done. Bedell Smith includes a wide array of first hand sources and highlights the views and interests of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth II that shaped the formative years of Queen Elizabeth II (and King Charles III). I thought that the final chapters about the aftermath of the Second World War could have been expanded as key developments such as the partition of India and the development of the modern Commonwealth of equal nations are summarized relatively quickly but overall, this is one of the most comprehensive and engaging biographies of George VI and/or Queen Elizabeth. I hope that Bedell Smith will write a sequel about Queen Elizabeth's half century of public service as Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.
March 10, 2024
I don't think it is an overstatement to say the marriage of George VI and Elizabeth saved the monarchy as the author claims in this engaging biography. This is a good place to start in understanding the modern British royal family. However, Sally Bedell Smith is not without her biases, and they come across often in the pages. While it can make sense for an author to admire the covered subject, when the appreciation comes across a bit too often, it can be jarring to the reader. Otherwise, this was a solid biography.
3.5
3.5
August 18, 2024
Such a good book! Well written and filled with interesting anecdotes, too many to list here: I marked almost every page! Ten stars!!
March 31, 2023
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Sally Bedell Smith is no stranger to the Royal Family. She’s written several books about various members of the family, and this time concentrates on Queen Elizabeth II’s parents, King George VI and the Queen Mother. She had unfettered access to documents including letters in order to tell a more complete story of the man and woman who led Great Britain following the abdication crisis and during World War II. Having access to these letters and papers makes for a compelling dual biography.
When you dive into a 700-page book, you have to take your time or it will feel like a drudge, which is something I forgot momentarily and I dived in. The early part of the book, especially the protracted courtship of Elizabeth and Bertie seemed to drag on forever, but maybe I just felt that way because it really did take a long time for the two to get to the alter. Bertie had to ask Elizabeth THREE TIMES before she said yes. Let’s remember that.
The scope and breadth of this book is incredible, from Bertie and Elizabeth’s childhoods, through their courtship, early marriage and births of Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret, their idyllic life before the abdication crisis, and then taking the helm of the country. Leading the country through World War II with the help of Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and then dealing with the post-war austerity.
On the one hand, I’m not a big fan of Queen Elizabeth’s “ostriching” for which she was ever famous. If she didn’t want to deal with something unpleasant, she just ignored it and wished it away. That caused many problems over the years with various members of the Royal Family and certainly is not the healthy way of dealing with things. On the other hand, she had the gumption and strength to support and advise her husband throughout their marriage and his kingship.
One thing I found interesting with this book, and I hope that this new history reflects it for the future, was that King George VI was not a “weak” king, or not that smart, who couldn’t handle the position thrust upon him when Edward VIII abdicated the throne. While it was somewhat shocking to him that he would become king in the weeks leading up to the abdication, he was the son who spent the most time with George V and knew some of the duties that entailed. He was more equipped to become king than his brother, David. He was a conscientious study and poured over every document that was in his red boxes. He had a thorough understanding of every situation that came his way. He restored public confidence in the monarchy and wisely led his country during wartime.
With every new book I read, I find out more about the disgraceful actions of the Duke of Windsor. He bugged Bertie again and again about money, claiming poverty, when in fact, as Prince of Wales, he had squirreled away about a million dollars from his earning from the Duchy of Cornwall. Parliament wouldn’t pay the Duke anything so George VI paid him an allowance out of his own pocket, only to find out that his brother had lied. The king’s allowance as Duke of York had been a pittance compared to the Prince of Wales and had very little money saved when he became king, and economized, especially during the war.
If you don’t know anything about George VI and Elizabeth, this book is for you. If you know the basics about their life, this book is still for you because of new revelations. I’ve frequently read or seen documentaries that mention Bertie was not in robust health his whole life. I had no idea until I read this book that during the entire time he served in the Royal Navy, something like 8 years, he was only on active duty for 16 months. And that he smoked upwards of 50 cigarettes a day. Looking back, I can see how the king’s health failed at aged 56, which his wife always blamed on the stress of being king, but really, it was a lifetime of health problems and an addiction to smoking which did him in.
Sally Bedell Smith is no stranger to the Royal Family. She’s written several books about various members of the family, and this time concentrates on Queen Elizabeth II’s parents, King George VI and the Queen Mother. She had unfettered access to documents including letters in order to tell a more complete story of the man and woman who led Great Britain following the abdication crisis and during World War II. Having access to these letters and papers makes for a compelling dual biography.
When you dive into a 700-page book, you have to take your time or it will feel like a drudge, which is something I forgot momentarily and I dived in. The early part of the book, especially the protracted courtship of Elizabeth and Bertie seemed to drag on forever, but maybe I just felt that way because it really did take a long time for the two to get to the alter. Bertie had to ask Elizabeth THREE TIMES before she said yes. Let’s remember that.
The scope and breadth of this book is incredible, from Bertie and Elizabeth’s childhoods, through their courtship, early marriage and births of Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret, their idyllic life before the abdication crisis, and then taking the helm of the country. Leading the country through World War II with the help of Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and then dealing with the post-war austerity.
On the one hand, I’m not a big fan of Queen Elizabeth’s “ostriching” for which she was ever famous. If she didn’t want to deal with something unpleasant, she just ignored it and wished it away. That caused many problems over the years with various members of the Royal Family and certainly is not the healthy way of dealing with things. On the other hand, she had the gumption and strength to support and advise her husband throughout their marriage and his kingship.
One thing I found interesting with this book, and I hope that this new history reflects it for the future, was that King George VI was not a “weak” king, or not that smart, who couldn’t handle the position thrust upon him when Edward VIII abdicated the throne. While it was somewhat shocking to him that he would become king in the weeks leading up to the abdication, he was the son who spent the most time with George V and knew some of the duties that entailed. He was more equipped to become king than his brother, David. He was a conscientious study and poured over every document that was in his red boxes. He had a thorough understanding of every situation that came his way. He restored public confidence in the monarchy and wisely led his country during wartime.
With every new book I read, I find out more about the disgraceful actions of the Duke of Windsor. He bugged Bertie again and again about money, claiming poverty, when in fact, as Prince of Wales, he had squirreled away about a million dollars from his earning from the Duchy of Cornwall. Parliament wouldn’t pay the Duke anything so George VI paid him an allowance out of his own pocket, only to find out that his brother had lied. The king’s allowance as Duke of York had been a pittance compared to the Prince of Wales and had very little money saved when he became king, and economized, especially during the war.
If you don’t know anything about George VI and Elizabeth, this book is for you. If you know the basics about their life, this book is still for you because of new revelations. I’ve frequently read or seen documentaries that mention Bertie was not in robust health his whole life. I had no idea until I read this book that during the entire time he served in the Royal Navy, something like 8 years, he was only on active duty for 16 months. And that he smoked upwards of 50 cigarettes a day. Looking back, I can see how the king’s health failed at aged 56, which his wife always blamed on the stress of being king, but really, it was a lifetime of health problems and an addiction to smoking which did him in.
April 7, 2023
George VI and Elizabeth is one of the most insightful, beguiling and personal books I have read on the members of the Royal Family. Author Sally Bendall Smith gained access to the Royal Archives, diaries and letters and gives the readers more than mere glimpses into George and Elizabeth's personalities, characters, upbringing, mutual love for each other, sense of duty and steadfastness through tragedies and family division, and horrors of World War II (they themselves very nearly got killed by the bombing of Buckingham Palace). They were both loved as children and adored spending time with their own daughters.
What struck me most is the wonderful complement of two very different personalities, Elizabeth's vibrancy and George's shyness, and how they brought out the best in each other. They were both honest, hard working and loyal. Foibles, shortcomings and quirks are also described. After King Edward VIII abdicated, leaving the monarchy reeling, George and Elizabeth stepped up with remarkable confidence that they probably weren't feeling at first (especially George's public stuttering which he determinedly overcame). The descriptions of their childhoods, courtship, homes and hobbies were interesting and informative. What one couple's strengths accomplished during times of a shattered monarchy is incredible!
So many stories stand out in my mind such as nicknames, Bertie's sweet secret code to his mother after his third engagement proposal, his sensitive character beginning in childhood and debilitating shyness. It was a joy to read about Elizabeth's idyllic childhood, practically living outside and learning names of wildflowers. She was immediately loved by her in-laws and the public due to her kindness and humility.
Whether you are fans of the Royal Family or not, this book is well worth getting your hands on. Don't let the length deter you; it is fascinating and exceptionally well written. I found myself researching more and more during my reading experience as I could not get enough! The photographs are a delight.
My sincere thank you to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this engrossing book.
What struck me most is the wonderful complement of two very different personalities, Elizabeth's vibrancy and George's shyness, and how they brought out the best in each other. They were both honest, hard working and loyal. Foibles, shortcomings and quirks are also described. After King Edward VIII abdicated, leaving the monarchy reeling, George and Elizabeth stepped up with remarkable confidence that they probably weren't feeling at first (especially George's public stuttering which he determinedly overcame). The descriptions of their childhoods, courtship, homes and hobbies were interesting and informative. What one couple's strengths accomplished during times of a shattered monarchy is incredible!
So many stories stand out in my mind such as nicknames, Bertie's sweet secret code to his mother after his third engagement proposal, his sensitive character beginning in childhood and debilitating shyness. It was a joy to read about Elizabeth's idyllic childhood, practically living outside and learning names of wildflowers. She was immediately loved by her in-laws and the public due to her kindness and humility.
Whether you are fans of the Royal Family or not, this book is well worth getting your hands on. Don't let the length deter you; it is fascinating and exceptionally well written. I found myself researching more and more during my reading experience as I could not get enough! The photographs are a delight.
My sincere thank you to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this engrossing book.
April 23, 2023
Possibly the best book on this royal couple. The details are interesting and we learn facts, unlike current mostly fictional television accounts of the royal family during the 20th century.
February 1, 2023
This is a book for a specific audience...those interested in past Royals and who want a LOT of details. It would be useful to anyone who wants a reference book about George VI and Elizabeth because at some points there are day-by-day descriptions of their social lives, etc. There are passages that would be meaningful for a more general reader, that are written about the emotional lives of the royal family before, during, and shortly after WWII. Much detail is given about their respective family trees, Elizabeth's interest (while single) in seeing particular men, and her general friendships. There are large number of formal events, teas, hunting weekends, dinners in posh restaurants at which nothing much really happens. The hopping timeline was a little hard for me to follow, e.g. George VI's (Bertie's) yearlong courtship of a hesitant Elizabeth. Aspects of those events are described but not in chronological order and it felt repetitive to me. The wartime years, which were a nightmare for the royal family and the entire country, are covered in the kind of detail that helps the reader really share in the day-to-day anxiety and tragedies. The King's older brother, the Duke of Windsor (who had abdicated the throne to marry a divorced woman), tormented both the King and Queen, wanting to return to England where he was not welcome; he demanded a prestigious government appointment even after his supportive, secret communications with the Nazi regime had been discovered. Not even his and Bertie's mother would speak to him.
The love among Bertie, Elizabeth, and their two daughters, Elizabeth and Margaret, as well as extended family members is very moving as is the early death of Bertie from worry and nonstop smoking. The courtship and wedding of Elizabeth II and Philip are described in details probably familiar to anyone with an interest in this.
The author was given virtually full access by Queen Elizabeth II near the end of her life to all family archives, even the ones in a tower in Scotland on the Queen Mum's ancestral land. The author had to climb over 100 winding stone steps to reach the archive rooms and took her lunch each day to obviate a return climb each afternoon.
This book will almost certainly have a large readership among serious followers of the royal family during the twentieth century and early twenty-first.
The love among Bertie, Elizabeth, and their two daughters, Elizabeth and Margaret, as well as extended family members is very moving as is the early death of Bertie from worry and nonstop smoking. The courtship and wedding of Elizabeth II and Philip are described in details probably familiar to anyone with an interest in this.
The author was given virtually full access by Queen Elizabeth II near the end of her life to all family archives, even the ones in a tower in Scotland on the Queen Mum's ancestral land. The author had to climb over 100 winding stone steps to reach the archive rooms and took her lunch each day to obviate a return climb each afternoon.
This book will almost certainly have a large readership among serious followers of the royal family during the twentieth century and early twenty-first.
March 27, 2023
Married lives, she said, are “in a sense, communities in miniature… in some way the highest form of human fellowship.”
-Queen Elizabeth on her silver wedding anniversary to King George VI
So much history packed into these pages! While it could feel like a list of names and places that were hard to keep straight, the moments of real connection shown through. The path of this marriage was unintended for the throne, but the story of its impact on the world was insightful and encouraging.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
-Queen Elizabeth on her silver wedding anniversary to King George VI
So much history packed into these pages! While it could feel like a list of names and places that were hard to keep straight, the moments of real connection shown through. The path of this marriage was unintended for the throne, but the story of its impact on the world was insightful and encouraging.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2023
I was engaged with this for about 2/3rds of the book, through the early WWII years, but skimmed through the end, since it was history I was more familiar with. Extremely detailed and well researched, but if you are looking for a fair and balanced view of the royals, this is not it—the author presented George and Elizabeth as nearly eligible for sainthood throughout.
December 9, 2023
Some books about the royal family are full of gossip and treat the royals like celebrities (Endgame by Omid Scobie and Spare by a royal himself who behaves like a celebrity)(Inread those too). Others are focused on the royal family and their place in history, in a long line of monarchs going back 1200 years to include William the Conquerer, Henry VIII, George III and Queen Victoria. Sally Bedell Smith’s comprehensive biography of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (known later as the Queen Mother), the parents of Queen Elizabeth II, is in the latter category. Based on primary sources including diaries of both monarch’s previously unavailable, is in the latter category. Smith dives deeply into the background of the Queen mother, born in Scotland in an aristocratic family, and Prince Albert, who became George VI, the second son who became king when his brother abdicated. She demonstrates how their backgrounds prepared them for their roles as monarch and queen that they never expected to occupy, how they grew in those roles to become the dedicated, resilient, caring and competent king and queen who led their country through depression and war and most importantly raised a similarly resilient, dedicated, kind, and empathetic daughter who became Queen Elizabeth II, who led her nation for 70 years through some of its most challenging times and was beloved by all the world at the time of her death. This was an excellent history, well written and thoughtful and a joy to read.
June 28, 2024
What a journey this book was, like re-living of The Crown Netflix series. Only this story was very genuine, every statement supported by quotes from letters and diaries so that you could put skin on the characters and walk. Eddie them. There is a magical lifestyle to the royalties but also very trying and tiring days that George VI and Elizabeth remained steadfast no matter the difficulties. First we read of their childhood and courtship and then a marriage that was a love match with no ideas of regal pomp or splendor. They ruled with dignity and diligence. They led as sovereigns and spouses and parents with sterling qualities and achievements. The Second World War showed their true bravery and compassion and endurance. I delighted in the details of their roles alongside Winston Churchill. Never at any moment in all the perplexities at home or abroad, in public or in private did they fail at their duties. With their careful nurturing, together they raised a daughter, Queen Elizabeth II that would indeed save the British monarchy. This history book reads just like a novel. I hope to read her book Elizabeth II which will cover her life until 2012. Hopefully the author is writing a book to follow for the last 10 years until her death.
I highly recommend this 565 page book!
I highly recommend this 565 page book!
September 21, 2023
I absolutely loved this excellent biography of King George VI and Elizabeth. I didn't know much of anything about either of them, so it was wonderful to read their story, especially about what they and the British people experienced during WWI and WWII. And of course King Edward's abdication. It gave me some perspective about that event and what difficulties it brought about. Also, King George VI was an overcomer, and someone who willingly stepped up to serve out of love for his people and country.
November 28, 2023
It was refreshing to read a current book that was not part of the “let’s destroy the past” trend of discrediting heroes and looking for their faults. This book, well-researched with royal access into diaries, notes and other correspondence, is a glimpse into the heartwarming romance of Bertie and Elizabeth and then their future lives as “accidental” royals. The details shared, genuine and factual, in my estimation disqualifies this from being labeled a mere “hagiography” - although this book hugely reinforced my good feelings about these two people. Not without faults, they were the right couple at the right time.
I was impressed with the amount of work Bertie and Elizabeth did - speeches and meetings and lots of wearying travel. They were passionate about each other, about England and about their two daughters. Their faithfulness and dignity helped strengthen the monarchy as an institution.
The dissolute nature of Bertie’s older brother, known as David or as Edward VIII - actually was a blessing to Western civilization. Had he remained king, the world could look very different today. Thank you Wallis Simpson for luring him away from his role and his duties.
I loved this book and would give it even more than 5 stars.
I was impressed with the amount of work Bertie and Elizabeth did - speeches and meetings and lots of wearying travel. They were passionate about each other, about England and about their two daughters. Their faithfulness and dignity helped strengthen the monarchy as an institution.
The dissolute nature of Bertie’s older brother, known as David or as Edward VIII - actually was a blessing to Western civilization. Had he remained king, the world could look very different today. Thank you Wallis Simpson for luring him away from his role and his duties.
I loved this book and would give it even more than 5 stars.
May 23, 2023
The opening chapters I find too minutiae-intensive regarding the vacuous lives of the aristocracy...but once it gets past that, it becomes a new and interesting look at characters and events that everyone believes has already faced the judgement of history. After nearly a century, there is still much to learn that is both appalling and fascinating...and this book manages to convey this fact extremely well.
March 25, 2023
I admit this took me a little longer than normal to read but with good reason. The amount of detail provided in this book is amazing and really immerses you in George VI and Queen Elizabeth’s lives. It was a very decadent life they came from and it just makes you wonder how much longer the British monarchy can remain relevant because frankly none of the current royals are as amazingly devoted to their subjects now that their dear Lilibet is gone.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC. My opinions are my own.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC. My opinions are my own.
February 1, 2024
Thank You to NetGalley for the eARC I was so excited to get my hands on this book.
This is my first time reading Sally Bedell Smith and I loved her writing style! She made the royal family George VI and Elizabeth come to life. She also showed his this marriage survived WW II, how they raised their daughters, Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret, and prepared Princess Elizabeth to become queen. The author showed some much insight to the royal family and those around them and felt like you knew them better than ever before. The weaving of in love stories was beautiful.
It is obvious that the author has done a lot of research and that Queen Elizabeth II allowed her access to her parents' diaries, letters, etc. The book is informative, but not overwhelming with details. I would reread it. I would recommend it to those you like anything royalty, Britain, war, government, family, relationships, hardships, love, and nonfiction.
This is my first time reading Sally Bedell Smith and I loved her writing style! She made the royal family George VI and Elizabeth come to life. She also showed his this marriage survived WW II, how they raised their daughters, Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret, and prepared Princess Elizabeth to become queen. The author showed some much insight to the royal family and those around them and felt like you knew them better than ever before. The weaving of in love stories was beautiful.
It is obvious that the author has done a lot of research and that Queen Elizabeth II allowed her access to her parents' diaries, letters, etc. The book is informative, but not overwhelming with details. I would reread it. I would recommend it to those you like anything royalty, Britain, war, government, family, relationships, hardships, love, and nonfiction.
June 4, 2023
George IV and Elizabeth the marriage that saved the monarchy was a very detailed book. I enjoyed reading it because it showed how much in love they were with each other and the way they felt about each other helped the monarchy to survive.
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May 5, 2023Loved this! Review to come
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
Jen Ryland Reviews
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
Jen Ryland Reviews
February 12, 2024
If you’re interested in the British Royal Family this is an amazing book. If you’re not - I don’t know why you’d read it. I loved the author’s style of writing and how she used personal letters. It was a very soothing book.
November 25, 2023
King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (the queen mother) were integral to England's morale during WWII. George leaned heavily on his wife who helped him with the difficult transition to the monarchy and the dark days of the war. Together they raised the future Queen Elizabeth II and set an unparalleled example of duty and family.
On the flip side, they also had an unparalleled fondness for hunting and there are many descriptions throughout the book of the royal family slaughtering birds, rabbits, deer, and an extended safari in Africa where George and Elizabeth enthused over shooting elephants and just about everything else. This, in Africa, with a support staff of hundreds.
In general, one gets a clear depiction of how feudal England was well into the 20th century, with house parties held on estates where acreage numbered in the tens of thousands.
Nevertheless, this book was a great read, a fascinating peek into the lives of the royal family and the ultimate triumph of democracy over fascism.
On the flip side, they also had an unparalleled fondness for hunting and there are many descriptions throughout the book of the royal family slaughtering birds, rabbits, deer, and an extended safari in Africa where George and Elizabeth enthused over shooting elephants and just about everything else. This, in Africa, with a support staff of hundreds.
In general, one gets a clear depiction of how feudal England was well into the 20th century, with house parties held on estates where acreage numbered in the tens of thousands.
Nevertheless, this book was a great read, a fascinating peek into the lives of the royal family and the ultimate triumph of democracy over fascism.
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