THE ENGLISH WIFE by Anna Stuart (audio, narrated by Jane McDowell)

5 stars

This fabulous women’s historical fiction takes us diving behind the scenes into the life of Clementine Churchill, from the early days of her marriage to becoming a stalwart force behind her husband’s serving as Prime Minister during the height of World War II.

It’s brilliantly, compellingly narrated by Jane McDowell, who draws us immediately into Clementine’s mind, as well as into her intimate circle of family and friends.

Clementine gets revealed as the true stalwart and encouragement behind her husband Winston’s bravery and leadership. Winston stands up for England in 1940 as the only European country fighting off Hitler’s Germany, until finally Russia enters the fray after being attacked by the Nazis and then America comes to the rescue after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. He’s plagued by insecurities and doubts, along with profound health issues, and relies on Clementine to stabilize and fortify him. As a result, she curtails her personal ambitions to be readily available by his side while also doing all she can for the war effort.

Clementine brings all her strength and quiet leadership to bear as she stands upon a rooftop as a nighttime Fire Marshall during bombings, drags elected officials into the decrepit underground raid shelters in order to get the funding to rehabilitate them, invites women and children to have tea with her to uplift the country spirits, raises untold funds for suffering Russian women and children during the war, and befriends Eleanor Roosevelt to the benefit of the allies during the war. She fights for Britain by constantly and bravely aiding the everyday citizens, constantly discovering new behind the scenes ways to help.

In addition to Clementine’s point of view, we also hear her story from an American broadcaster Jenny she befriends and takes into her small circle of confidents. Jenny’s based on the real American Janet Murrow who moved to Britain with her husband for both to cover WWII for the BBC and CBS. Jenny too struggles with her accomplishments being overshadowed by her more famous husband, and relies on Clementine for sage advice on infertility, marital infidelity, and how to realize her own potential.

Not only an amazing listen, but a powerful insight that takes Clementine out of the shadows of history and into the spotlight she so deserves!

Thanks to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for an advanced reader’s copy.

Stacy DeBroff

Stacy DeBroff, founder and CEO of Mom Central.com and social and digital consultancy, Influence Central, is a social media strategist, attorney, and best-selling parenting author. A sought-after expert for national media, she trend-spots regularly with national brands and speaks frequently to national and international audiences on a wide range of subjects, including influencer marketing, social media, entrepreneurship, and consumer trends. A passionate cook, gardener, reader, and tennis player, she adores this new chapter of post-college-age parenting.