"I may be only twenty-three years old to Winston’s thirty-four , without the education, accomplishments, or nobility of my intended, but my life will not serve solely as the invisible source of “sympathy and devotion” for my husband. Indeed, I want to write my own chapter, and I say a silent prayer that Winston will hand me the pen." - "Lady Clementine"



One of the greatest historical fiction novels I've ever had the pleasure to read. Marie Benedict brings Clementine Churchill to life in a beautiful rendition of her story. I am here for the headstrong, bold and brave Clementine! Her relationship with Winston is the definition of #couplegoals. Sure they have their faults, but the Winston Churchill in this novel is a feminist before his time and I love that. He is used to having women in the home, but he's open to Clementine's ideas and work and always supports her when it counts. Benedict doesn't depict their marriage as perfect, but instead she makes it realistic. There was a natural strain on this famous couple's love, but they are also well-suited to each other. While reading, sometimes I wanted to throw the book against the wall and yell at Churchill to trust his wife, but it's important to remember that both Clementine and him were going through trying times of war.



I never knew about Clementine's involvement in the war effort. It was amazing and inspiring to read about how she went right into the thick of things, speaking to British subjects and petitioning politicans to give aid to victims of bombings. Of course Benedict could have speculated on this, but I'm sure there's at least some truth to it. This is a historical fiction novel so Benedict has full rights to write anything she wants. I do wish she would've included some references and research in the back of the book.



My favorite part of the book was near the end when Clementine met Eleanor Roosevelt. Their relationship progresses in a lovely and supportive way. Distance separted them, but I love how Clementine thought of Eleanor often. When Eleanor's husband died, it was sweet how Clementine worried for her friend immediately. I'd love to see letters, if the pair ever exchanged any. This is a wonderful early example of women supporting women!



This novel stands out for its mature and diverting language and detailed depiction of historical settings. I could picture Clementine's home and trip to Bali so clearly! I can't wait to read more work by Benedict.