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Lady Clementine
From Marie Benedict, the New York Times bestselling author of The Only Woman in the Room, comes an incredible novel that focuses on one of the people who had the most influence during World War I and World War II: Clementine Churchill.
In 1909, Clementine Churchill steps off a train with her new husband, Winston. An angry woman emerges from the crowd to attack, shoving him in the direction of an oncoming train. Just before he stumbles, Clementine grabs him by his suit jacket. This will not be the last time Clementine Churchill saves her husband.
Lady Clementine is the ferocious story of the brilliant and ambitious woman beside Winston Churchill, the story of a partner who did not flinch through the sweeping darkness of war, and who would not surrender either to expectations or to enemies.
In 1909, Clementine Churchill steps off a train with her new husband, Winston. An angry woman emerges from the crowd to attack, shoving him in the direction of an oncoming train. Just before he stumbles, Clementine grabs him by his suit jacket. This will not be the last time Clementine Churchill saves her husband.
Lady Clementine is the ferocious story of the brilliant and ambitious woman beside Winston Churchill, the story of a partner who did not flinch through the sweeping darkness of war, and who would not surrender either to expectations or to enemies.
322 pages, Hardcover
First published January 7, 2020
About the author
Marie Benedict
21 books10.1k followersMarie Benedict is a lawyer with more than ten years' experience as a commercial litigator at two of the country's premier law firms. While practicing as a NYC lawyer, Marie dreamed of a fantastical job unearthing the hidden historical stories of women -- and finally found it when she tried her hand at writing. She embarked on a new, thematically connected series of historical fiction excavating the stories of important, complex and fascinating women from the past with THE OTHER EINSTEIN, which tells the tale of Albert Einstein's first wife, a physicist herself. She then released CARNEGIE'S MAID, the story of a brilliant woman who may have spurred Andrew Carnegie toward philanthropy, followed by the B&N Book Club pick and NYTimes bestseller THE ONLY WOMAN IN THE ROOM, the tale of the Golden Age of Hollywood actress Hedy Lamarr who made a world-changing invention, and LADY CLEMENTINE about Winston Churchill's wife. She then wrote the Costco pick and NYTimes bestseller THE MYSTERY OF MRS. CHRISTIE which focuses on the real-life disappearance of Agatha Christie and the role it played in shaping her into the world's most successful novelist. In her first co-written novel with the talented Victoria Christopher Murray, Marie released the NYTimes bestselling and Good Morning America Book Club pick THE PERSONAL LIBRARIAN about Belle da Costa Greene, the personal librarian to J.P, Morgan who hid a secret about her identity -- and that was followed by HER HIDDEN GENIUS about the brilliant British scientist Rosalind Franklin who discovered the structure of DNA but her research was taken and used by James Watson and Francis Crick. Coming this January 2023 is THE MITFORD AFFAIR, an explosive novel of history's most notorious sisters -- the brilliant, aristocratic Mitfords --, one of whom will have to choose her country or her family as the sisters get caught in the crosshairs of WWII.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,839 reviews
January 29, 2020
I didn’t know anything about Clementine Churchill, and that’s why this novel piqued my interest. She is portrayed as intelligent, strong, with a mind of her own and views of her own on the politics of Britain and the world at large. I loved that these were the things which seemed to attract Winston Churchill to her when they first meet. Good thing, because she was more than just the “woman behind the man”, but seemed to be right there along with him, as a confidant, an advisor. Although, at times, Clemmie is a bit full of herself. “ —I do believe my careful ministrations have allowed him to survive these long years with a modicum of success and self and self-respect—I don’t think that whatever position he secures will be any less mine ...” . The story covers from the time they meet and marry in 1908 up through WWII, their relationship with its ups a and downs, their family life and of course Winston’s rise to Prime Minister and the wars.
It reads like a memoir, but the first person narrative always gives me pause in this type of novel based on a real person. How real are the conversations and the day to day interactions between the Churchills? I know it’s fiction, but I can’t help but wonder just how true the imagined character is to the real person. So of course, I was compelled to look online to get the some facts about Clementine Ogilvy Spencer-Churchill and it was clear that Benedict does a good job of capturing her. While I was interested in learning about Clementine and this proved to be informative, the first person narrative just didn’t work for me here. Recommended to fans of historical fiction and those with a curiosity about women who were influential during notable times in history.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Sourcebooks Landmark through Edelweiss.
December 9, 2019
3.5 stars, rounded up
This book is an interesting, but not engrossing, fiction of Clementine Churchill’s marriage to Winston. Clementine proved herself Winston’s equal time and again. Not afraid of speaking her mind, she was as enthused by politics as he was.
Benedict chooses smart women who were restrained by their times as her topics. I do wish she didn’t try to have her characters see their futures, whether Winston seeing himself as destined to save the world or Clemmie seeing herself as Winston’s rescuer. “I see my future with Winston unspool before me. Perhaps this rescue is not meant to be my last.” It just came across as telling, not showing.
The book covers a large amount of time so we see just glimpses of Clemmie and Winston’s life. Maybe because of this, I didn’t initially connect with them as real people. The book becomes more compelling once WWII starts and Winston becomes PM. I was especially interested by Clemmie’s push to get women more involved in the war effort. As well as the other issues she chose to champion such as the air raid shelters.
I felt Benedict did a good job covering Clemmie and Winston’s relationship with their children and her guilt over their parenting. In fact, throughout the book, she doesn’t sugarcoat the family issues.
The book definitely improves as it goes on. I was initially disappointed with the story but by the end, found it very worthwhile. I’ve often said that I judge an historical fiction by how much I learned. While I know a lot about Winston and England’s trials during WWII, I still picked up a lot of interesting facts. I always enjoy reading the author’s note for historical novels so that I can get a feel how many allowances were taken. But Epstein’s AN was not included in my advance copy.
My thanks to netgalley and Sourcebooks for an advance copy of this book.
This book is an interesting, but not engrossing, fiction of Clementine Churchill’s marriage to Winston. Clementine proved herself Winston’s equal time and again. Not afraid of speaking her mind, she was as enthused by politics as he was.
Benedict chooses smart women who were restrained by their times as her topics. I do wish she didn’t try to have her characters see their futures, whether Winston seeing himself as destined to save the world or Clemmie seeing herself as Winston’s rescuer. “I see my future with Winston unspool before me. Perhaps this rescue is not meant to be my last.” It just came across as telling, not showing.
The book covers a large amount of time so we see just glimpses of Clemmie and Winston’s life. Maybe because of this, I didn’t initially connect with them as real people. The book becomes more compelling once WWII starts and Winston becomes PM. I was especially interested by Clemmie’s push to get women more involved in the war effort. As well as the other issues she chose to champion such as the air raid shelters.
I felt Benedict did a good job covering Clemmie and Winston’s relationship with their children and her guilt over their parenting. In fact, throughout the book, she doesn’t sugarcoat the family issues.
The book definitely improves as it goes on. I was initially disappointed with the story but by the end, found it very worthwhile. I’ve often said that I judge an historical fiction by how much I learned. While I know a lot about Winston and England’s trials during WWII, I still picked up a lot of interesting facts. I always enjoy reading the author’s note for historical novels so that I can get a feel how many allowances were taken. But Epstein’s AN was not included in my advance copy.
My thanks to netgalley and Sourcebooks for an advance copy of this book.
November 30, 2021
Lady Clementine reimagines the story of Clementine Hozier-Churchill (1885-1977), a woman of great intelligence, who had skillfully influenced her husband’s political career.
London, 1908. Clementine Hozier attracts attention of Winston Churchill by her intellect and responsiveness. He is very impressed with her, stating, “…you listen, understand, and engage with the important issues of our day.”
After five months of courtship he proposes.
She quickly realizes “that if she wants to play a meaningful part in his life, she must become involved in his political world,” which naturally fits her. And Winston encourages her to take a charge no matter how unusual the issue is, specifically if it’s fit for a woman.
On June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, gets shot in Serbia. The brewing war is now inevitable.
Later as a wife of Prime Minister, she receives criticism which she uses as fuel. She turns it around and uses as positive ammunition, “involving women in the war in a meaningful way,” by convincing her husband to hire women in supportive, administrative, and manufacturing capacities.
The story entails major events, making the pace fast. It gives a glimpse at brewing relationships among European countries; then Nazi Germany annexation of Austria, and then invasion of Poland – ultimately leading to WWII. It’s an interesting glimpse from British perspective of slow reaction of then current PM Chamberlain; and later the efforts of new PM and his wife to woo the Americans into the war, to help end it.
This book paints a portrait of a very strong woman, who knows how to tackle man’s world. She is a woman to reckon with. But she struggles as a mother. Motherhood gives her more anxiety than the challenges thrown at her by men. And still where she feels most comfortable, she sees room for improvement for herself. While meeting Mrs. Roosevelt, first she notices her out-of-style dress, but then what impresses Clementine the most is how Eleanor conducts herself. And that’s what inspires her - to be even a better diplomat.
Well-written, with steady pace, informative, and not overwhelming, presenting a story of a commendable woman with an engaging prose.
P.S. Highly recommend other books by this author: The Other Einstein, Carnegie’s Maid, The Only Woman in the Room.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
London, 1908. Clementine Hozier attracts attention of Winston Churchill by her intellect and responsiveness. He is very impressed with her, stating, “…you listen, understand, and engage with the important issues of our day.”
After five months of courtship he proposes.
She quickly realizes “that if she wants to play a meaningful part in his life, she must become involved in his political world,” which naturally fits her. And Winston encourages her to take a charge no matter how unusual the issue is, specifically if it’s fit for a woman.
On June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, gets shot in Serbia. The brewing war is now inevitable.
Later as a wife of Prime Minister, she receives criticism which she uses as fuel. She turns it around and uses as positive ammunition, “involving women in the war in a meaningful way,” by convincing her husband to hire women in supportive, administrative, and manufacturing capacities.
The story entails major events, making the pace fast. It gives a glimpse at brewing relationships among European countries; then Nazi Germany annexation of Austria, and then invasion of Poland – ultimately leading to WWII. It’s an interesting glimpse from British perspective of slow reaction of then current PM Chamberlain; and later the efforts of new PM and his wife to woo the Americans into the war, to help end it.
This book paints a portrait of a very strong woman, who knows how to tackle man’s world. She is a woman to reckon with. But she struggles as a mother. Motherhood gives her more anxiety than the challenges thrown at her by men. And still where she feels most comfortable, she sees room for improvement for herself. While meeting Mrs. Roosevelt, first she notices her out-of-style dress, but then what impresses Clementine the most is how Eleanor conducts herself. And that’s what inspires her - to be even a better diplomat.
Well-written, with steady pace, informative, and not overwhelming, presenting a story of a commendable woman with an engaging prose.
P.S. Highly recommend other books by this author: The Other Einstein, Carnegie’s Maid, The Only Woman in the Room.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley, Sourcebooks and Marie Benedict for my copy of her new book: Lady Clementine.
In 1908, Clementine Hozier married Winston Churchill and it's the start of one of history's greatest unions. Clementine was expected to be a Winston's wife, a mother to his future children and support his political career. Clementine Churchill was more than the wife of England's most powerful men, she was his friend, his confidant, his greatest supporter and together they made a formidable couple.
Not long into their marriage, Clementine saved Winston's political career after the his idea to attack The Dardanelles during WW I was an utter disaster, he was a demoted from the admiralty, she though of a way for Winston to redeem himself and it worked.
Her life wasn't an easy one, she had troubled childhood, her marriage to Winston was at times hard, trying to be a good mother to her five children, while being a busy politicians wife and of course living in England during the two world wars was difficult.
Both she and Winston had issues with " The Black Dog " as they called depression back then, the pressure of being in the public eye, loss of a child, juggling so many different roles and WW II. This took it's toll on both of the Churchill's mental health and of course their marriage.
Clementine was a very strong woman, she was smart and she was determined that her husband's time as England's Prime Minister was a success. During WW II, not only was she her husband sounding board for his famous speeches, she encouraged him to change the wording, Winston used big complicated words and the average English working class person wouldn't understand what he meant!
Clementine, put her husband first, she struggled with terrible guilt regarding the lack of time she spent with her children while they were growing up and her life wasn't easy. But she was dedicated to her husband, she loved him, she supported her country and it's people. She went out herself to witness the terrible damage the German bombs had done to London, she noticed the bomb shelters had issues, she discovered while they did protect women and children from harm? They lacked basic things, like somewhere for families to sleep, decent toilet facilities and she made changes.
She was involved with the Red Cross, she also added her name to the fire spotters list, at night they sat on roofs of buildings for 8 hours shifts watching with binoculars fixed on the sky, they reported incoming German planes and also if any fires had started. Mrs Churchill was also was an excellent hostess, she made do with what food was available due to rationing and she remembered the famous dinner guests favorite dishes.
Lady Clementine, is a story about a strong, brilliant, ambitious woman who stood beside her husband, during England's darkest hour and in her own way she helped her country defeat the Germans.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, opinions expressed in this review are my own, I gave Lady Clementine 5 stars and I really enjoyed the book.
I have shared my review on Goodreads, Twitter, NetGalley, Edelweiss, Kobo, Australian Amazon and my blog.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
In 1908, Clementine Hozier married Winston Churchill and it's the start of one of history's greatest unions. Clementine was expected to be a Winston's wife, a mother to his future children and support his political career. Clementine Churchill was more than the wife of England's most powerful men, she was his friend, his confidant, his greatest supporter and together they made a formidable couple.
Not long into their marriage, Clementine saved Winston's political career after the his idea to attack The Dardanelles during WW I was an utter disaster, he was a demoted from the admiralty, she though of a way for Winston to redeem himself and it worked.
Her life wasn't an easy one, she had troubled childhood, her marriage to Winston was at times hard, trying to be a good mother to her five children, while being a busy politicians wife and of course living in England during the two world wars was difficult.
Both she and Winston had issues with " The Black Dog " as they called depression back then, the pressure of being in the public eye, loss of a child, juggling so many different roles and WW II. This took it's toll on both of the Churchill's mental health and of course their marriage.
Clementine was a very strong woman, she was smart and she was determined that her husband's time as England's Prime Minister was a success. During WW II, not only was she her husband sounding board for his famous speeches, she encouraged him to change the wording, Winston used big complicated words and the average English working class person wouldn't understand what he meant!
Clementine, put her husband first, she struggled with terrible guilt regarding the lack of time she spent with her children while they were growing up and her life wasn't easy. But she was dedicated to her husband, she loved him, she supported her country and it's people. She went out herself to witness the terrible damage the German bombs had done to London, she noticed the bomb shelters had issues, she discovered while they did protect women and children from harm? They lacked basic things, like somewhere for families to sleep, decent toilet facilities and she made changes.
She was involved with the Red Cross, she also added her name to the fire spotters list, at night they sat on roofs of buildings for 8 hours shifts watching with binoculars fixed on the sky, they reported incoming German planes and also if any fires had started. Mrs Churchill was also was an excellent hostess, she made do with what food was available due to rationing and she remembered the famous dinner guests favorite dishes.
Lady Clementine, is a story about a strong, brilliant, ambitious woman who stood beside her husband, during England's darkest hour and in her own way she helped her country defeat the Germans.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, opinions expressed in this review are my own, I gave Lady Clementine 5 stars and I really enjoyed the book.
I have shared my review on Goodreads, Twitter, NetGalley, Edelweiss, Kobo, Australian Amazon and my blog.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
December 29, 2019
I have to tell you that I did not like this book at all. If I ever had any interest in Clementine Churchill this book has effectively killed it. It's too bad because apparently she did do some good work during the War but this book just pounds away at giving her all the credit for Winston Churchill's success. I don't buy it. They probably did have a supportive relationship but I don't accept that she wrote most of his speeches and made most of his decisions. I just don't think he would have been nothing without her.
Clementine apparently had a difficult childhood. Her single mother was more interested in herself and her love affairs than her children. Her father's identity was unclear. Clementine learned nothing from her mother's lack of interest. She displayed almost no attention to her children and left them to the nannies reasoning that the nannies would provide for them better. She was probably right. She devoted all her attention and devotion to Winston and taking all the credit for the work he did.
It was a difficult time for women where they couldn't perform on their own. I think she would have loved to be Margaret Thatcher. I have read in other places that she was shy and retiring but in this book she craved the attention and wanted the credit. She also suffered from depression and would take off for months on her own to "recuperate". She once almost had an affair but the man turned out to be gay so that didn't work.
At the end of this book, I neither liked Clementine or the author. I think she was trying to fit a character from another age into the standards of today. That doesn't work. People are a product of their times. It's like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. That sums up this book for me. It didn't work and I don't believe it.
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
Clementine apparently had a difficult childhood. Her single mother was more interested in herself and her love affairs than her children. Her father's identity was unclear. Clementine learned nothing from her mother's lack of interest. She displayed almost no attention to her children and left them to the nannies reasoning that the nannies would provide for them better. She was probably right. She devoted all her attention and devotion to Winston and taking all the credit for the work he did.
It was a difficult time for women where they couldn't perform on their own. I think she would have loved to be Margaret Thatcher. I have read in other places that she was shy and retiring but in this book she craved the attention and wanted the credit. She also suffered from depression and would take off for months on her own to "recuperate". She once almost had an affair but the man turned out to be gay so that didn't work.
At the end of this book, I neither liked Clementine or the author. I think she was trying to fit a character from another age into the standards of today. That doesn't work. People are a product of their times. It's like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. That sums up this book for me. It didn't work and I don't believe it.
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
August 9, 2019
In September 1908, 23-year-old Clementine Hozier became Mrs. Winston Churchill. As a powerful statesman’s wife, Clementine was expected to be an intuitive and devoted woman playing a supporting role to her husband’s endeavors. However, Clementine Churchill would be more than just the woman behind one of history’s most powerful men.
Through the decades of Winston’s political prowess and key military roles, Clementine supported him and served as his “secret weapon,” - saving his skin countless times and providing key insights into his political relations. Clementine weathered two world wars and overcame the expectations of what a woman can do. She never relinquished her independence or her values.
Lady Clementine gives a new look at one of the unsung women of history. Marie Benedict, author of The Only Woman in the Room, Carnegie’s Maid, and The Other Einstein, creates a compelling tale of historical fiction. This book paints a realistic picture of the trials and victories of the wife of Winston Churchill and provides a personal perspective on the Churchill family.
Through the decades of Winston’s political prowess and key military roles, Clementine supported him and served as his “secret weapon,” - saving his skin countless times and providing key insights into his political relations. Clementine weathered two world wars and overcame the expectations of what a woman can do. She never relinquished her independence or her values.
Lady Clementine gives a new look at one of the unsung women of history. Marie Benedict, author of The Only Woman in the Room, Carnegie’s Maid, and The Other Einstein, creates a compelling tale of historical fiction. This book paints a realistic picture of the trials and victories of the wife of Winston Churchill and provides a personal perspective on the Churchill family.
January 26, 2020
I have read the biographies of Clementine Churchill (1885-1977). But this historical fiction brings this formidable woman to life.
The book is well written and researched. Winston and Clemmie were a definite power couple. She must have been an amazing woman to deal with the ups and downs of Winston, bear five children, manage a large household on a shoestring budget and deal with a constant stream of angry people left in Winston’s wake. I am a huge fan of Winston Churchill and with Clemmie being a key part of it, I have acquired a great deal of information about her over the years. I am sure the book was not written with someone like me in mind, but I thoroughly enjoyed examining how Benedict wove the history with the fiction. I think that Clemmie would have been a great politician and maybe even an exceptional prime minister. If you are looking for something a bit different, give this book a try.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is ten hours and forty-five minutes. Elizabeth Sastre does a good job narrating the book. This is my first experience listening to Sastre. Sastre is an English actress and audiobook narrator.
The book is well written and researched. Winston and Clemmie were a definite power couple. She must have been an amazing woman to deal with the ups and downs of Winston, bear five children, manage a large household on a shoestring budget and deal with a constant stream of angry people left in Winston’s wake. I am a huge fan of Winston Churchill and with Clemmie being a key part of it, I have acquired a great deal of information about her over the years. I am sure the book was not written with someone like me in mind, but I thoroughly enjoyed examining how Benedict wove the history with the fiction. I think that Clemmie would have been a great politician and maybe even an exceptional prime minister. If you are looking for something a bit different, give this book a try.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is ten hours and forty-five minutes. Elizabeth Sastre does a good job narrating the book. This is my first experience listening to Sastre. Sastre is an English actress and audiobook narrator.
January 5, 2020
Marie Benedict enjoys introducing her readers to women who in their own right led interesting lives beside the prominent men of the time. Her latest historical fiction features, Clementine Churchill(1885-1977), a formidable woman who spent her adult life building, supporting, and at times challenging her husband, Sir Winston Churchill, in politics. Marie Benedict does not shy away from the ups and downs of the Churchills in both their personal and private lives. Through two world wars and the arrival of five children, Clementine and Winston were devoted to their country and the British people.
My paternal grandfather was a fan of Churchill's and due to the many books in his library, including one that details the thousands of letters that " Pug" and "Cat" wrote to each other, Marie Benedict has certainly conveyed the love and respect they held for one another. As I read an ARC, the author's note wasn't included, however, I did some research online and based on what I found, many aspects of MB's narrative seem to be true(won't be specific as it could be considered spoliers).
I enjoyed the novel and read it one sitting, I felt that Benedict makes the couple most realistic in the scenes where it's just the two of them. I think we(particularly in the Commonwealth countries) often overlook the wives of our Prime Ministers(or at least that is my personal observation when comparing it to the roles of First Lady in the US.) In 2015, Clementine was given her own biography written by Sonia Purnell which I will try and find at my secondhand store.
Thanks to Netgalley and SOURCEBOOKS Landmark for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Goodreads review published 05/01/20/
Publication Date 07/01/20
My paternal grandfather was a fan of Churchill's and due to the many books in his library, including one that details the thousands of letters that " Pug" and "Cat" wrote to each other, Marie Benedict has certainly conveyed the love and respect they held for one another. As I read an ARC, the author's note wasn't included, however, I did some research online and based on what I found, many aspects of MB's narrative seem to be true(won't be specific as it could be considered spoliers).
I enjoyed the novel and read it one sitting, I felt that Benedict makes the couple most realistic in the scenes where it's just the two of them. I think we(particularly in the Commonwealth countries) often overlook the wives of our Prime Ministers(or at least that is my personal observation when comparing it to the roles of First Lady in the US.) In 2015, Clementine was given her own biography written by Sonia Purnell which I will try and find at my secondhand store.
Thanks to Netgalley and SOURCEBOOKS Landmark for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Goodreads review published 05/01/20/
Publication Date 07/01/20
January 11, 2020
Lady Clementine is the story of Clementine Churchill, wife of Winston. Just after she married him, she has to pull him off the train tracks where he’s been shoved by angry woman. Clementine is a force throughout her marriage to Winston, never backing down and always fiercely protecting her husband.
As a recent new fan of The Crown, I loved learning more about this fascinating woman. His equal in many ways, I was most intrigued by her spirit. Having not read any hist fic focused directly on the Churchill family, I enjoyed and was enlightened by this account of their ups and downs.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher.
Many of my reviews can also be found on instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
As a recent new fan of The Crown, I loved learning more about this fascinating woman. His equal in many ways, I was most intrigued by her spirit. Having not read any hist fic focused directly on the Churchill family, I enjoyed and was enlightened by this account of their ups and downs.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher.
Many of my reviews can also be found on instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
April 20, 2022
Lady Clementine is one of Marie Benedict's more popular historical fiction novels, written about the wife of Winston Churchill, a woman who had made quite a name for herself during the mid-2oth century. I enjoyed the book, and it taught me a lot about this strong, intelligent leader who was perhaps shadowed by her Prime Minister husband and overbearing mother.
Surprisingly (to me), Clementine had broken off two engagements prior to Winston's, plus she had had come from a wealthy family in which her mother had numerous marital affairs. How scandalous! Truthfully, I often wonder if affairs happened more often in the past then they do now... today, people just leave the marriage whereas a hundred years ago, they hid things on the side. Let's get back to the merit of the book. A quick note, while I am not sharing much that would be considered spoilers below, I do comment on some scenes or actions that could be perceived as a spoiler, so tread carefully below.
I found this one to be one of the more accurate portrayals in Benedict's canon. More has been written on Clementine, and she had a greater public appearance than some of the others, so it probably helped create a stronger sense of connection. Watching actresses play her in a few series and movies helped cement the woman for people too. I also remember hearing about her when I visited Churchill's wartime residences on a trip to England many years ago. In terms of this book, I like how much Churchill himself was downplayed; there were moments he was grand, some where he was pretentious and rude, but ultimately, he seemed quite reasonable (for a man in that time period without today's modern advances, I mean).
The book covered about 40 years, so scenes were quick. So much focused on their children too, which was good but made me question parenting skills of yesteryear. I can't imagine parents today just handing their children to a nanny and taking off for months at a time. How did relationships actually develop? Clementine realized this and corrected her approach, but still, she was too aloof at times. I also wish we had learned more about her work with the Red Cross and her travels around the world. I suppose not a lot has been documented about that element, so it would be hard to write it well. Overall, I found this to be an engaging story, and rarely did it err on the side of dull or unbelievable. Some scenes were undoubtedly exaggerated, and I do wonder whether she almost had an affair or not, but it seems unlikely given what both her mother and Winston's mother regularly did, as well as the one her daughter-in-law engaged in.
I'm now caught up in Benedict's books except for the latest one that came out in the last year. I've ordered it but probably won't get to it until late spring. I will be ready for her next publication, and I eagerly await the subject -- having no clue whom it might be yet!
Surprisingly (to me), Clementine had broken off two engagements prior to Winston's, plus she had had come from a wealthy family in which her mother had numerous marital affairs. How scandalous! Truthfully, I often wonder if affairs happened more often in the past then they do now... today, people just leave the marriage whereas a hundred years ago, they hid things on the side. Let's get back to the merit of the book. A quick note, while I am not sharing much that would be considered spoilers below, I do comment on some scenes or actions that could be perceived as a spoiler, so tread carefully below.
I found this one to be one of the more accurate portrayals in Benedict's canon. More has been written on Clementine, and she had a greater public appearance than some of the others, so it probably helped create a stronger sense of connection. Watching actresses play her in a few series and movies helped cement the woman for people too. I also remember hearing about her when I visited Churchill's wartime residences on a trip to England many years ago. In terms of this book, I like how much Churchill himself was downplayed; there were moments he was grand, some where he was pretentious and rude, but ultimately, he seemed quite reasonable (for a man in that time period without today's modern advances, I mean).
The book covered about 40 years, so scenes were quick. So much focused on their children too, which was good but made me question parenting skills of yesteryear. I can't imagine parents today just handing their children to a nanny and taking off for months at a time. How did relationships actually develop? Clementine realized this and corrected her approach, but still, she was too aloof at times. I also wish we had learned more about her work with the Red Cross and her travels around the world. I suppose not a lot has been documented about that element, so it would be hard to write it well. Overall, I found this to be an engaging story, and rarely did it err on the side of dull or unbelievable. Some scenes were undoubtedly exaggerated, and I do wonder whether she almost had an affair or not, but it seems unlikely given what both her mother and Winston's mother regularly did, as well as the one her daughter-in-law engaged in.
I'm now caught up in Benedict's books except for the latest one that came out in the last year. I've ordered it but probably won't get to it until late spring. I will be ready for her next publication, and I eagerly await the subject -- having no clue whom it might be yet!
September 10, 2022
The free world owes Clementine Churchill a huge thank you. Without her influence and support, Winston Churchill would not have been so politically savvy nor would he have had the resolve and staying power needed to hold off the German forces and their allies in both of the great wars of the 20th century. Marie Benedict has shown us a portrait of Clementine that shows us her struggles and her strengths. I would heartily recommend it for book groups as there is much to discuss regarding parenting, marriage, women's rights, and the perils of wartime.
Another important influence in Winston Churchill's life was his mother Jennie. Read The American Adventuress by C.W. Gortner coming out on September 20, 2022.
Another important influence in Winston Churchill's life was his mother Jennie. Read The American Adventuress by C.W. Gortner coming out on September 20, 2022.
January 14, 2020
I found that this book just dragged on & on and made Clementine either the true Churchill or just a boring bad mother. Really hated it and just couldn't finish.
June 23, 2020
One of my favorite Winston Churchill quotes is, "I am always ready to learn although I do not always like being taught" and I agree with it. That's one reason why I like reading historical fiction because I learn without being taught.
This is my first book from Benedict. I really don't know much about Winston, let alone Clementine, his wife and this was a good introduction. I didn't realize he was at the top of his political game, then out, then back in again and out. He changed political parties a few times. He always looked old to me, and he was in his late 60s during WWII, and Clementine was in her late 50s.
Clementine had enough political ambitions for five husbands. I don't know if I would have been friends with her--she was very driven and had to then take "rest cures" for nervous exhaustion. Someone needed to tell her life was a marathon, not a sprint. While her childhood wasn't the easiest, she certainly didn't put her children at the top of her list. I found it ironic that when an American diplomat was coming to England to view the damage of the bombers in WWII, she knew he had stomach cancer and catered to him, serving him nutritious meals and even putting a hot water bottle in his bed, yet she didn't put the same concern in the care of her children. Looking up more information about her mothering habits I found some concerns about Marigold's care (or lack thereof) and Diana's death.
I was unaware how the Churchills viewed Roosevelt as the Americans joined the Allies in WWII and thought he was pushing them aside to control the battles. I find it odd that Clementine put so much energy into raising funds for Russian children's hospitals when certainly there was so much need for that in England.
Thanks to Netgallery and the publishers for an e-ARC. I really have no idea why Clementine's hair and coat are purple in the cover. Oddly, it kept reminding me of Violet, a daughter of the prime minister, who had designs on marrying Winston.
This is my first book from Benedict. I really don't know much about Winston, let alone Clementine, his wife and this was a good introduction. I didn't realize he was at the top of his political game, then out, then back in again and out. He changed political parties a few times. He always looked old to me, and he was in his late 60s during WWII, and Clementine was in her late 50s.
Clementine had enough political ambitions for five husbands. I don't know if I would have been friends with her--she was very driven and had to then take "rest cures" for nervous exhaustion. Someone needed to tell her life was a marathon, not a sprint. While her childhood wasn't the easiest, she certainly didn't put her children at the top of her list. I found it ironic that when an American diplomat was coming to England to view the damage of the bombers in WWII, she knew he had stomach cancer and catered to him, serving him nutritious meals and even putting a hot water bottle in his bed, yet she didn't put the same concern in the care of her children. Looking up more information about her mothering habits I found some concerns about Marigold's care (or lack thereof) and Diana's death.
I was unaware how the Churchills viewed Roosevelt as the Americans joined the Allies in WWII and thought he was pushing them aside to control the battles. I find it odd that Clementine put so much energy into raising funds for Russian children's hospitals when certainly there was so much need for that in England.
Thanks to Netgallery and the publishers for an e-ARC. I really have no idea why Clementine's hair and coat are purple in the cover. Oddly, it kept reminding me of Violet, a daughter of the prime minister, who had designs on marrying Winston.
December 8, 2020
Glad this book is listed as “Fiction” because it surely is based very loosely on some known facts. Even some of the ‘facts’ have been squered.
The author’s imagination has run away with her on this one.
Facts:
Winston and Clementine both had unhappy and difficult childhoods
When they met they found that they went together like cheese and crackers
He recognized her intelligence and did indeed depend on her in many ways
Brilliant Winston was also Difficult Winston and not many women would have been able to cope with him
Clementine was special in this regard
She did take the initiative on occasions all to the good of her husband and the country
Ms. Benedict has taken some facts and put them through the spin cycle in the washing machine.
She left me feeling as if she disliked these two people immensely and a great disservice has been perpetrated on these two historical figures.
Such a disappointment since three previous books by Ms. Benedict were excellent.
The author’s imagination has run away with her on this one.
Facts:
Winston and Clementine both had unhappy and difficult childhoods
When they met they found that they went together like cheese and crackers
He recognized her intelligence and did indeed depend on her in many ways
Brilliant Winston was also Difficult Winston and not many women would have been able to cope with him
Clementine was special in this regard
She did take the initiative on occasions all to the good of her husband and the country
Ms. Benedict has taken some facts and put them through the spin cycle in the washing machine.
She left me feeling as if she disliked these two people immensely and a great disservice has been perpetrated on these two historical figures.
Such a disappointment since three previous books by Ms. Benedict were excellent.
April 25, 2024
Letztlich wurde das Buch doch meinem Vorurteil gerecht: Bücher, deren pastellfarbenes Cover eine Frau zeigt, die dem Betrachter den Rücken zukehrt, sind für eine andere Zielgruppe. Aber nicht für mich.
Das Buch ist durchaus unterhaltsam geschrieben, sprachlich sogar ansprechend und inhaltlich auf jeden Fall interessant, denn bislang habe ich mich mit den Churchills nie beschäftigt, insbesondere nicht mit Winston. Seine Ehefrau Clementine Churchill, aus deren Ich-Perspektive das Buch geschrieben ist, war bestimmt eine starke und faszinierende Frau. Dass Marie Benedict den Frauen hinter berühmten Männern einen Scheinwerfer bietet, ist auch löblich. Aber für mich bleibt am Ende die Frage offen, wie viel ist wahr an Benedicts Darstellung. Die belegten Fakten sind nicht anzuzweifeln, aber ist Clementines Charakter richtig beschrieben? Ohne sie lief ja eigentlich gar nichts in der Downing Street. Im Grund hat sie den Krieg gegen die Deutschen gewonnen und ihr Ehemann war nur ihre Handpuppe. Okay, das ist jetzt natürlich überspitzt von mir dargestellt. Aber dieses Restgefühl bleibt zurück. Es war mir dann an vielen Stellen einfach zu pathetisch und selbstverliebt. Ich hätte doch besser eine sachliche Biografie gelesen, als einen biografischen Roman.
Das Buch ist durchaus unterhaltsam geschrieben, sprachlich sogar ansprechend und inhaltlich auf jeden Fall interessant, denn bislang habe ich mich mit den Churchills nie beschäftigt, insbesondere nicht mit Winston. Seine Ehefrau Clementine Churchill, aus deren Ich-Perspektive das Buch geschrieben ist, war bestimmt eine starke und faszinierende Frau. Dass Marie Benedict den Frauen hinter berühmten Männern einen Scheinwerfer bietet, ist auch löblich. Aber für mich bleibt am Ende die Frage offen, wie viel ist wahr an Benedicts Darstellung. Die belegten Fakten sind nicht anzuzweifeln, aber ist Clementines Charakter richtig beschrieben? Ohne sie lief ja eigentlich gar nichts in der Downing Street. Im Grund hat sie den Krieg gegen die Deutschen gewonnen und ihr Ehemann war nur ihre Handpuppe. Okay, das ist jetzt natürlich überspitzt von mir dargestellt. Aber dieses Restgefühl bleibt zurück. Es war mir dann an vielen Stellen einfach zu pathetisch und selbstverliebt. Ich hätte doch besser eine sachliche Biografie gelesen, als einen biografischen Roman.
April 25, 2020
Lady Clementine by Marie Benedict is a novel told in the first person by Clementine Churchill, the wife of Winston Churchill. It seems very bold for the author to speak for Lady Clementine. However, the writing is so believable at times it read more like an autobiography instead of a novel. It is apparent that in-depth research went into the writing of this very interesting story of a complex woman.
Clementine Churchill, through her close relationship with her husband, was one of the most influential behind the scenes people during World War I and World War II. It was rare for Winston to give a speech without her editing and approval. She tried to ensure his speeches spoke to all British citizens, not just those with an education. She was a fierce proponent of Women's Suffrage and also was not afraid to make her own mark on the world without Winston's invitation.
Lady Clementine's biggest failure seemed to be parenting. She was raised by a bohemian mother, and she also was not a nurturing parent. She thought nothing of leaving her children in the care of nannies for long periods, including one trip for four months which left right before Christmas. Her toddler daughter Marigold became terminally ill while in the care of a nanny. The novel contains many disparaging statements about the three oldest children, especially her son Randolph. The youngest child, Mary, was clearly her favorite, but her parenting was done by a cousin who was the child's full-time nanny.
Thank you to NetGalley and to Sourcebooks Landmark for my Advance Reader Copy. The book will be published on January 7, 2020. 5 Stars. Book Club Recommended.
Clementine Churchill, through her close relationship with her husband, was one of the most influential behind the scenes people during World War I and World War II. It was rare for Winston to give a speech without her editing and approval. She tried to ensure his speeches spoke to all British citizens, not just those with an education. She was a fierce proponent of Women's Suffrage and also was not afraid to make her own mark on the world without Winston's invitation.
Lady Clementine's biggest failure seemed to be parenting. She was raised by a bohemian mother, and she also was not a nurturing parent. She thought nothing of leaving her children in the care of nannies for long periods, including one trip for four months which left right before Christmas. Her toddler daughter Marigold became terminally ill while in the care of a nanny. The novel contains many disparaging statements about the three oldest children, especially her son Randolph. The youngest child, Mary, was clearly her favorite, but her parenting was done by a cousin who was the child's full-time nanny.
Thank you to NetGalley and to Sourcebooks Landmark for my Advance Reader Copy. The book will be published on January 7, 2020. 5 Stars. Book Club Recommended.
November 19, 2022
Lady Clementine by Marie Benedict was a fascinating book about Mr and Mrs Churchill. How Mrs Churchill politically led her husband for more than 30 years. Through miscarriages, multiple children, and death she was the leader of politics. She definitely wore the pants in the family. It all came with a price…her children.
I’ve always been a fan of Winston Churchill. It was interesting to me how much his wife led the politics as he followed her commands. Not that, that was a bad thing. They balanced off of each other. Sadly, in that time the mother was what held the children together. It was highly unusual for a female to assume such a role.
I’ve always been a fan of Winston Churchill. It was interesting to me how much his wife led the politics as he followed her commands. Not that, that was a bad thing. They balanced off of each other. Sadly, in that time the mother was what held the children together. It was highly unusual for a female to assume such a role.
November 8, 2020
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
POPSUGAR READING CHALLENGE 2020 #35: A fiction or a nonfiction book abut a world leader
Marie Benedict issues her readers with an astonishing novel of a great woman who lived in the shadow of her powerful husband. Lady Clementine chronicles the life and times of Clementine Churchill. Charting Clementine’s life from the moment she ascended to the role of wife to Winston Churchill in 1908, through to the restoration of peace following the close of World War II, this is a full life story.
The woman behind one of the most formidable figures in the both the Great War and the Second World War, Clementine Churchill, wife of one of history’s most powerful men, is brought to life on the pages of Marie Benedict’s historical fiction piece, Lady Clementine. Over the years, Clementine saved her great husband many times over. Throughout her partnership with Winston, Clementine provided key counsel, assistance in pertinent political decisions, she interjected during political dinners with dignitaries and Clementine contributed to many of Winston’s speeches. We also learn that Clementine was a suffragette and a highly enterprising woman. This ambitious and intelligent partner to Winston achieved a great deal during her time as the other half of the formidable Winston Churchill. Despite the enemies, criticism and opposition, Clementine managed to rise above it all. There is no question that Clementine Churchill emerged as a respected figure of her time.
I love nothing more than to uncover rich historical fiction biographies of key female figures from our past. Marie Benedict is a talented and trusted author of the historical fiction genre. Benedict specialises in bringing to light the lives of great women from our past. In Lady Clementine, we are issued with a strong and insightful history of Clementine Churchill, the wife of Winston Churchill. Lady Clementine proved to be a well-researched, insightful and impressionable novel that I appreciated greatly.
I had no prior knowledge of the act of saviour that Clementine performed on her husband Winston. This key event defines their long partnership. Over the years Clementine worked to save Winston many times over. Through the unfolding story presented in Lady Clementine, we learn that Clementine was a permanent fixture in Winston’s political career. Clementine provided essential advice and guidance in vital decisions affecting both Britain and international affairs. I was immediately taken by Clementine, I connected to her values, aspirations and efforts. Clementine was a force to be reckoned with and she didn’t sink quietly into the background. I empathised with Clementine’s marriage to Winston, which was at many times very taxing. We witness Clementine’s moments of despair, her overwhelming nervousness and the pressure she was continually placed under by her demanding husband. Despite this, Clementine remained by Winston’s side. Clementine’s only downfall was her care of her children, which suffered under the expectations she held as the wife of Winston. Benedict portrays these flaws and positive qualities in an objective way throughout her novel.
Foreshadowing the personal events, achievements and trying times that followed Clementine Churchill during this first person account that covers the years 1908 to 1945, is a thorough overview of a number of significant world events. Benedict does a very good job in this area of her novel, drawing on her impeccable range of research to highlight essential moments from Winston Churchill’s reign, which is seen through the eyes of Clementine. I enjoyed and appreciated Clementine’s viewpoint on these keynote world affairs. We travel from the suffragette movement, to the onset of the First World War, all the way through to the rise and close of the Second World War. These were trying and defining times, vividly brought to life in a fairly swift sweep by Marie Benedict. What I appreciated the most about Lady Clementine was the rich characterisation of not only Clementine and Winston, but their family members, offspring and other very prominent figures from the time period. This aspect of the tale really made me appreciate Lady Clementine.
There is no denying the power, intelligence, support and the heady influence of Clementine Churchill. Marie Benedict’s Lady Clementine is a novel that you should add to your reading list if you are a fan of real life female figures from times past.
POPSUGAR READING CHALLENGE 2020 #35: A fiction or a nonfiction book abut a world leader
Marie Benedict issues her readers with an astonishing novel of a great woman who lived in the shadow of her powerful husband. Lady Clementine chronicles the life and times of Clementine Churchill. Charting Clementine’s life from the moment she ascended to the role of wife to Winston Churchill in 1908, through to the restoration of peace following the close of World War II, this is a full life story.
The woman behind one of the most formidable figures in the both the Great War and the Second World War, Clementine Churchill, wife of one of history’s most powerful men, is brought to life on the pages of Marie Benedict’s historical fiction piece, Lady Clementine. Over the years, Clementine saved her great husband many times over. Throughout her partnership with Winston, Clementine provided key counsel, assistance in pertinent political decisions, she interjected during political dinners with dignitaries and Clementine contributed to many of Winston’s speeches. We also learn that Clementine was a suffragette and a highly enterprising woman. This ambitious and intelligent partner to Winston achieved a great deal during her time as the other half of the formidable Winston Churchill. Despite the enemies, criticism and opposition, Clementine managed to rise above it all. There is no question that Clementine Churchill emerged as a respected figure of her time.
I love nothing more than to uncover rich historical fiction biographies of key female figures from our past. Marie Benedict is a talented and trusted author of the historical fiction genre. Benedict specialises in bringing to light the lives of great women from our past. In Lady Clementine, we are issued with a strong and insightful history of Clementine Churchill, the wife of Winston Churchill. Lady Clementine proved to be a well-researched, insightful and impressionable novel that I appreciated greatly.
I had no prior knowledge of the act of saviour that Clementine performed on her husband Winston. This key event defines their long partnership. Over the years Clementine worked to save Winston many times over. Through the unfolding story presented in Lady Clementine, we learn that Clementine was a permanent fixture in Winston’s political career. Clementine provided essential advice and guidance in vital decisions affecting both Britain and international affairs. I was immediately taken by Clementine, I connected to her values, aspirations and efforts. Clementine was a force to be reckoned with and she didn’t sink quietly into the background. I empathised with Clementine’s marriage to Winston, which was at many times very taxing. We witness Clementine’s moments of despair, her overwhelming nervousness and the pressure she was continually placed under by her demanding husband. Despite this, Clementine remained by Winston’s side. Clementine’s only downfall was her care of her children, which suffered under the expectations she held as the wife of Winston. Benedict portrays these flaws and positive qualities in an objective way throughout her novel.
Foreshadowing the personal events, achievements and trying times that followed Clementine Churchill during this first person account that covers the years 1908 to 1945, is a thorough overview of a number of significant world events. Benedict does a very good job in this area of her novel, drawing on her impeccable range of research to highlight essential moments from Winston Churchill’s reign, which is seen through the eyes of Clementine. I enjoyed and appreciated Clementine’s viewpoint on these keynote world affairs. We travel from the suffragette movement, to the onset of the First World War, all the way through to the rise and close of the Second World War. These were trying and defining times, vividly brought to life in a fairly swift sweep by Marie Benedict. What I appreciated the most about Lady Clementine was the rich characterisation of not only Clementine and Winston, but their family members, offspring and other very prominent figures from the time period. This aspect of the tale really made me appreciate Lady Clementine.
There is no denying the power, intelligence, support and the heady influence of Clementine Churchill. Marie Benedict’s Lady Clementine is a novel that you should add to your reading list if you are a fan of real life female figures from times past.
January 10, 2020
Marie Benedict is one of my favorite authors. She makes it fun to learn a bit of history. Here, Benedict focuses on Lady Clementine Churchill, Winston’s better half for 56 years. It was love at first sight for Clementine and Winston, each similarly raised by unaffectionate and often absent mothers, who’d married after knowing each other for only five short months; she at 23 and he 34 years old. This portrait of a smart, ambitious, non-conforming woman behind the man was fascinating and extremely well done. I admired Clementine’s strength and her dedication to Churchill’s mountain of demands. Sadly, the many demands of being his wife took a toll on her relationship with her children. Her mothering was sadly lacking and would come to have heartbreaking consequences.
November 16, 2020
I had to give up on this one. It's a wikipedia entry, sprinkled on a bowl of sentimental treacle. I just could not.
November 18, 2019
Quickly I realized this book is not for me.I had a really tough time following this story. I did not connect with the characters or the story line for that matter. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this complimentary book. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 2, 2022
I greatly enjoyed this read, and I wonder if the audio enhanced that. If I would have felt the same power of it in print. I think I may not have.
Clementine Churchill was a formidable woman. I think few people know just how involved and instrumental she was to her husband Winston and to the leadership of Britain, as well as to the ending of the war. When she accepted his proposal, it was not just for marriage but for leadership, vision, and stewardship of the country. And that she did. Before her time, she was as as much as a powerbroker and influencer as her husband, if not more.
Clementine and Winston did not live above the means of their countrymen. Night after night they went to bomb shelters, and bomb sites, trying to see what the country was experiencing, grieve along side their countryfolks, and make it better. They were true compassionate leadership. Visionary and Humane.
It was wonderful to witness a lot of the dialogue, especially between Clem and Winston, but also, Lady Clementine and Eleanor Roosevelt. Two women, who before their time were instrumental, and publicly relegated and put down. Elements of the writing were outstanding here.
Clementine managed all of the household affairs, the children, correspondence, international hosting, speechwriting, strategy - But she also had a nervous condition that she kept largely hidden. I found that aspect fascinating. And how that played out shows us that even the most formidable has points of weakness - and don't we all.
All in all this was a great listen about a woman I knew almost nothing about. As I have said, it may be historical fiction, but this is how I will choose to remember her.
Clementine Churchill was a formidable woman. I think few people know just how involved and instrumental she was to her husband Winston and to the leadership of Britain, as well as to the ending of the war. When she accepted his proposal, it was not just for marriage but for leadership, vision, and stewardship of the country. And that she did. Before her time, she was as as much as a powerbroker and influencer as her husband, if not more.
Clementine and Winston did not live above the means of their countrymen. Night after night they went to bomb shelters, and bomb sites, trying to see what the country was experiencing, grieve along side their countryfolks, and make it better. They were true compassionate leadership. Visionary and Humane.
It was wonderful to witness a lot of the dialogue, especially between Clem and Winston, but also, Lady Clementine and Eleanor Roosevelt. Two women, who before their time were instrumental, and publicly relegated and put down. Elements of the writing were outstanding here.
Clementine managed all of the household affairs, the children, correspondence, international hosting, speechwriting, strategy - But she also had a nervous condition that she kept largely hidden. I found that aspect fascinating. And how that played out shows us that even the most formidable has points of weakness - and don't we all.
All in all this was a great listen about a woman I knew almost nothing about. As I have said, it may be historical fiction, but this is how I will choose to remember her.
September 17, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley, Author Marie Benedict and Sourcebooks Landmark for the early copy of the book for my review.
What a delightful book, a historical fiction story about Clementine Churchill. A book full of history, and a great storyline about a wonderful and inspiring woman
This book was enlightening and interesting, and flowed really well. A book for all lovers of history, and historical fiction. One I would gladly recommend
What a delightful book, a historical fiction story about Clementine Churchill. A book full of history, and a great storyline about a wonderful and inspiring woman
This book was enlightening and interesting, and flowed really well. A book for all lovers of history, and historical fiction. One I would gladly recommend
March 20, 2022
Marie Benedict explores the Churchill marriage from Clementine’s point of view by using the format of a first person diary. The diary begins with her courtship where Clementine and Winston recognize each other as persons of substance and ends with the Allies victory in Europe (although they have 20 more years together).
Clementine is thrilled to be involved in affairs of state. She does not mind being behind the scenes as long as she is involved in matters that make a difference and that Winston recognizes her contribution. In small scenes you see their deep attraction and their affectionate “Pug” and “Cat” dialogs. Clementine bristles at the overt sexism in the government and will take on the most offensive.
As life chugs along there are children. Randall Churchill is a handful from the beginning. All are essentially raised by a caring staff while their parents serve England. Clementine often thinks about this and wonders how her distance affected her children, particularly Randall who embarrasses Clementine and Marigold who dies young.
You see marriage dynamics changing with the ups and downs of Winston’s career. In World War 1 his admiralty is an ideal appointment. He travels to view fleets. makes statements and has strategy sessions. Clementine advises him and arranges the (de facto required) dinner parties within their limited finances. A mistake, a big one, means a dismissal (regardless of who is at fault) and Winston withdraws from people, but not politics.
He becomes a major voice against appeasement. When it is clear that there is no appeasing Hitler, Winston is turned to for Prime Minister. Here, he and Clementine do their most lauded work. You see her carve out a meaningful roles by improving bomb shelters, aiding families and advocating roles for women in the war effort. You see Winston pressuring the US to give aid, join the war and add military support. Both are tireless. They go out, particularly Winston, where it is not safe, to show solidarity to, not just the people but also, the world. (I read this while watching Zelenskyy doing the same and can’t help but wonder what his wife is doing.)
Together the Churchill’s entertain influential Americans. (Here is when Pamela Churchill meets Averill Harriman - with Randall’s parents’ consent – I always wondered how that could have happened.) Winston becomes more demanding and bothersome. Clementine has to smooth over his dismissive treatment of staff.
With the bombing of Pearl Harbor and Germany’s declaration of war on the US, Britain is no longer alone in the war. With both Russia and the US joining in the war against Germany, Winston feels marginalized. He begins to appreciate his wife again. Clementine adds to her domestic work a fundraising project to aid Russia through the Red Cross (since it is independent of Winston’s war efforts she will not have his or other interference). With the end of the war in sight, she is feted in Russia. There is a scene with Stalin which presages the horrors yet to come for the Russian (and other) people.
The book ends with Clementine’s return from Russia to England… and the peace they both worked hard to secure.
The book has flaws. I almost put it down in the first chapters where entries for the same diary date refer back and forth to different times - it's a muddle. Throughout the book are some melodramatic scenes and contrived conversations. These can be excused because the overall text brings Clementine alive and gives dimension to the character of Winston.
For instance, I never understood how Winston lost an election after being credited to saving Britain... now I see it. I wondered how daughter-in-law Pamela kept the good will of her stodgy in-laws.... and again, through Benedict's presentation I now understand that relationship.
I recommend this book for those who read popular historical treatments of WWII and appreciate the way popular historical fiction can bring the characters to life.
Clementine is thrilled to be involved in affairs of state. She does not mind being behind the scenes as long as she is involved in matters that make a difference and that Winston recognizes her contribution. In small scenes you see their deep attraction and their affectionate “Pug” and “Cat” dialogs. Clementine bristles at the overt sexism in the government and will take on the most offensive.
As life chugs along there are children. Randall Churchill is a handful from the beginning. All are essentially raised by a caring staff while their parents serve England. Clementine often thinks about this and wonders how her distance affected her children, particularly Randall who embarrasses Clementine and Marigold who dies young.
You see marriage dynamics changing with the ups and downs of Winston’s career. In World War 1 his admiralty is an ideal appointment. He travels to view fleets. makes statements and has strategy sessions. Clementine advises him and arranges the (de facto required) dinner parties within their limited finances. A mistake, a big one, means a dismissal (regardless of who is at fault) and Winston withdraws from people, but not politics.
He becomes a major voice against appeasement. When it is clear that there is no appeasing Hitler, Winston is turned to for Prime Minister. Here, he and Clementine do their most lauded work. You see her carve out a meaningful roles by improving bomb shelters, aiding families and advocating roles for women in the war effort. You see Winston pressuring the US to give aid, join the war and add military support. Both are tireless. They go out, particularly Winston, where it is not safe, to show solidarity to, not just the people but also, the world. (I read this while watching Zelenskyy doing the same and can’t help but wonder what his wife is doing.)
Together the Churchill’s entertain influential Americans. (Here is when Pamela Churchill meets Averill Harriman - with Randall’s parents’ consent – I always wondered how that could have happened.) Winston becomes more demanding and bothersome. Clementine has to smooth over his dismissive treatment of staff.
With the bombing of Pearl Harbor and Germany’s declaration of war on the US, Britain is no longer alone in the war. With both Russia and the US joining in the war against Germany, Winston feels marginalized. He begins to appreciate his wife again. Clementine adds to her domestic work a fundraising project to aid Russia through the Red Cross (since it is independent of Winston’s war efforts she will not have his or other interference). With the end of the war in sight, she is feted in Russia. There is a scene with Stalin which presages the horrors yet to come for the Russian (and other) people.
The book ends with Clementine’s return from Russia to England… and the peace they both worked hard to secure.
The book has flaws. I almost put it down in the first chapters where entries for the same diary date refer back and forth to different times - it's a muddle. Throughout the book are some melodramatic scenes and contrived conversations. These can be excused because the overall text brings Clementine alive and gives dimension to the character of Winston.
For instance, I never understood how Winston lost an election after being credited to saving Britain... now I see it. I wondered how daughter-in-law Pamela kept the good will of her stodgy in-laws.... and again, through Benedict's presentation I now understand that relationship.
I recommend this book for those who read popular historical treatments of WWII and appreciate the way popular historical fiction can bring the characters to life.
November 24, 2019
Marie Benedict is a best selling author who writes historical fiction about remarkable women. I had previously read her novels The Other Einstein and The Only Woman in the Room. I am not a huge fan of her writing style, but commend her for bringing the women she writes about to a public who might not know their stories.
Lady Clementine is about Winston Churchill's wife, usually portrayed as long-suffering and anxious for Winston to put aside politics and enjoy his life--and give her more of his attention. Benedict shows a woman who understood what she was taking on in marrying Winston.
"In that moment, I knew with utter certainty that I could make a life with him. It would not be an easy life--no, it would be one of striving and ambition--but it could be an important and purposeful one.~from Lady Clementine by Marie Benedict
Twenty-three-year-old Clementine married the thirty-four-year-old Winston, with wanting to "write my own chapter." The novel takes their story through WWII, told by Clementine, in episodic scenes.
I just did not feel compelled to pick up the book, and half-way through decided to move on. It just couldn't compete with the other books I was reading at the time.
I was given access to a free egalley by the publisher through NetGalley. My review is fair and unbiased.
Lady Clementine is about Winston Churchill's wife, usually portrayed as long-suffering and anxious for Winston to put aside politics and enjoy his life--and give her more of his attention. Benedict shows a woman who understood what she was taking on in marrying Winston.
"In that moment, I knew with utter certainty that I could make a life with him. It would not be an easy life--no, it would be one of striving and ambition--but it could be an important and purposeful one.~from Lady Clementine by Marie Benedict
Twenty-three-year-old Clementine married the thirty-four-year-old Winston, with wanting to "write my own chapter." The novel takes their story through WWII, told by Clementine, in episodic scenes.
I just did not feel compelled to pick up the book, and half-way through decided to move on. It just couldn't compete with the other books I was reading at the time.
I was given access to a free egalley by the publisher through NetGalley. My review is fair and unbiased.
February 1, 2020
With the title "Lady Clementine" I was dubious. She was never, ever "Lady Clementine"--only Lady Churchill. Thankfully that problem did not come up. But by page 13 I'd found enough problems with titles, lineage, stilted thoughts [instead of my pet peeve stilted conversation to work in who is who and what's what]. With Clementine tell us of her "almond face" I wanted to scream. Then there were the memories of childhood--ugh. I did find the part about Marigold's death to be well done and very moving. The war years were ok.I sensed the author relied too much on t.v. dramas for background research and character formation
It checked nearly every pet peeve of badly done historical fiction. Do publishers EVER check facts anymore?
Read Mary Churchill Soames' biography of her parents. It reads like a novel and gets the facts right.
It checked nearly every pet peeve of badly done historical fiction. Do publishers EVER check facts anymore?
Read Mary Churchill Soames' biography of her parents. It reads like a novel and gets the facts right.
January 29, 2020
This was a take it or leave it book for me. I finished it but would have had no problem laying it aside. It was interesting to learn of Winston Churchill's wife but I really did not connect with her story. It is always good to learn of and from strong women and it is wonderful to see a strong woman at a time when women have not been given the opportunity to be the strong women they are. So praise for both Lady Clementine and her husband Winston for allowing her to do her part for her country.
March 12, 2020
Very slow, strangely written. I think this story could have been conveyed in a better way, instead the character felt obnoxious. I finished reading the book thinking about how irritating and whiny Clementine Churchill must have been, and not reflecting on the amazing things she did for the war efforts. Reads almost like a poorly written history paper for high school.
August 17, 2023
I started this one right after I watched, “The Darkest Hour” with my husband (we’re both history nuts). It did not disappoint!
The relationship between “Cat” and her “Pug” was intensely researched by the author, who read multiple letters that the two had exchanged over the course of their marriage, preserved by their youngest daughter Mary. Strained, at times; this couple endured two world wars together, while dealing with family dynamics and health problems along the way. All while being in the “fish bowl” that comes with being public, world-wide, highly scrutinized political figures.
I hadn’t known much about before about the marriage of Winston and Clementine; even less about their personal lives and the inner demons they often faced. Throughout the entire book, within all the upheaval of their lives together, the author did a wonderful job of providing the readers with evidence of the true love they had for each other.
The historical parts were intriguing, also. I was fascinated to learn about Clementine’s war efforts during the London Blitz, and also about her work with the Red Cross to aid Russian civilians left homeless due to the war.
Any historical fiction buff will devour this book like chocolate candy! I can’t wait to see what the author writes next!
The relationship between “Cat” and her “Pug” was intensely researched by the author, who read multiple letters that the two had exchanged over the course of their marriage, preserved by their youngest daughter Mary. Strained, at times; this couple endured two world wars together, while dealing with family dynamics and health problems along the way. All while being in the “fish bowl” that comes with being public, world-wide, highly scrutinized political figures.
I hadn’t known much about before about the marriage of Winston and Clementine; even less about their personal lives and the inner demons they often faced. Throughout the entire book, within all the upheaval of their lives together, the author did a wonderful job of providing the readers with evidence of the true love they had for each other.
The historical parts were intriguing, also. I was fascinated to learn about Clementine’s war efforts during the London Blitz, and also about her work with the Red Cross to aid Russian civilians left homeless due to the war.
Any historical fiction buff will devour this book like chocolate candy! I can’t wait to see what the author writes next!
January 20, 2020
Lady Clementine is the story of Winston Churchill's wife Clementine and how her relationship with Churchill went beyond your average love story, but included a secret partnership between them which helped to dictate history.
Lady Clementine's roll in Churchill's life went far beyond just having his children and planning meals for statesmen. She was Churchill's confidante, public relations person, speech writer and perhaps most important of all advocate for the men and women (especially the women) of England.
Barely tolerated by Churchill's cabinet, Clementine attended all meetings and sat with Churchill during most working dinners digesting all that was being said. She and Churchill would then as equals go back and make many state decisions. Sometimes even persuading him in another direction when she felt he was off track. She was a strong voice for a man who needed advice.
But even in her capacity as a powerful voice, Clementine was also a woman with anxieties and doubts about maternal instincts. Unsure how to raise children and always traveling, she never felt a bonding with her children. And as a mother who lost a child at the age of two while she was away, never fully recovered from these beliefs. She also had jealousies and was insecure being a woman in a man's world.
During World War II Clementine was the most powerful voice for the people of England. She was the designer of better bomb shelters for the families who had lost their houses during the raids. She demanded upgraded resources in them so the families would not feel as if they were living in poverty. She understood that most of these families had someone fighting in this war.
She was a strong force against most of the Cabinet to get women working in the factories while the men at war. She demanded that her family stay in London during the war instead of moving to the countryside.
Against all orders, Clementine would take her turn at night looking for fires from the bombs being dropped as a fire watcher. Although Churchill insisted she have security, when they were in London she participated. She truly was his secret weapon.
One of the most poignant accounts begins when Clementine Churchill meets Eleanor Roosevelt. When President Roosevelt was unable to travel for meetings with Churchill he instead sent his wife. At first leery of each other, they soon realized they were very similar in nature with strong backbones to their respective powerful husbands. They develop a respect for each other no one other than they could fully understand.
Once again Marie Benedict finds another powerful, embolden woman to write about in her effective storytelling way. A woman who was certainly way ahead of her time.
Thank you #NetGalley #SourcebooksLandmark #MarieBenedict #LadyClementine for the advanced copy.
Lady Clementine's roll in Churchill's life went far beyond just having his children and planning meals for statesmen. She was Churchill's confidante, public relations person, speech writer and perhaps most important of all advocate for the men and women (especially the women) of England.
Barely tolerated by Churchill's cabinet, Clementine attended all meetings and sat with Churchill during most working dinners digesting all that was being said. She and Churchill would then as equals go back and make many state decisions. Sometimes even persuading him in another direction when she felt he was off track. She was a strong voice for a man who needed advice.
But even in her capacity as a powerful voice, Clementine was also a woman with anxieties and doubts about maternal instincts. Unsure how to raise children and always traveling, she never felt a bonding with her children. And as a mother who lost a child at the age of two while she was away, never fully recovered from these beliefs. She also had jealousies and was insecure being a woman in a man's world.
During World War II Clementine was the most powerful voice for the people of England. She was the designer of better bomb shelters for the families who had lost their houses during the raids. She demanded upgraded resources in them so the families would not feel as if they were living in poverty. She understood that most of these families had someone fighting in this war.
She was a strong force against most of the Cabinet to get women working in the factories while the men at war. She demanded that her family stay in London during the war instead of moving to the countryside.
Against all orders, Clementine would take her turn at night looking for fires from the bombs being dropped as a fire watcher. Although Churchill insisted she have security, when they were in London she participated. She truly was his secret weapon.
One of the most poignant accounts begins when Clementine Churchill meets Eleanor Roosevelt. When President Roosevelt was unable to travel for meetings with Churchill he instead sent his wife. At first leery of each other, they soon realized they were very similar in nature with strong backbones to their respective powerful husbands. They develop a respect for each other no one other than they could fully understand.
Once again Marie Benedict finds another powerful, embolden woman to write about in her effective storytelling way. A woman who was certainly way ahead of her time.
Thank you #NetGalley #SourcebooksLandmark #MarieBenedict #LadyClementine for the advanced copy.
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