Initially I was a little dubious because of the potential for bad taste when it comes to ascribing motivations to the (relatively) recently deceased Diana. However what this work of fiction is really about is two women who defied the establishment and hence, the Crown.

Told through Mary Kirk, 'best friend' of Wallis Simpson and Rachel, a modern-day vintage clothing store owner who inadvertently witnessed the aftermath of the crash in the Alma Tunnel which killed Diana, the plot moves between time periods, drawing the reader into what is actually a well-paced and easily devoured story.

This book covers two time periods, beginning in 1997 with the death of Princess Diana and Dodi Al-Fayed in the Alma tunnel in Paris; and then back in time to 1911, and the school days of Bessiewallis Warfield - the future Wallis Simpson. It is fascinating on both levels- the investigation and rumours surrounding Princess Diana's death are well known, and this story is related from the viewpoint of Alex, an investigative journalist. The life of Wallis Simpson forms the bulk of the book and is told from the viewpoint of her best and life long friend Mary Kirk. Even though I was already familiar with the history of Mrs Simpson, I was thoroughly engaged and gripped by the stories I read. The writing really brought Wallis and her friends to life, allowing me to envisage the life she lived and how she eventually came to be the Duchess of Windsor. I gained a real insight into her character and behaviour through the author's writing and description. A complex, somewhat destructive and fascinating character emerges. The story of Alex and Rachel is a love story- with challenges- as Alex ruthlessly pursues his documentary story on Diana's death, eventually leading Rachel to Villa Windsor in Paris, the home of the late Duke and Duchess of Windsor. Here the story finale plays out, neatly tying both layers together. I loved this book- I couldn't put it down, it was fascinating, and I feel I got to know Wallis Simpson - the person! I will definitely be reading more by Gill Paul!

From the best selling author of The Secret Wife comes a gripping novel surrounding the lives of two of the most famous royals of modern times, Princess Diana and Wallis Simpson.
In 1997 Alex and Rachel are in Paris having just got engaged when returning to their hotel following a romantic dinner are held up by an accident.The fatal accident in which Princess Diana dies.
Back in the UK both Alex and Rachel are haunted in different ways by Diana,s death.
Alex to make a documentary exploring all the conspiracy theories surrounding her death.
Whilst Rachel is intrigued that Diana visited Wallis,s Paris home just hours before she died and sets out to find out what connects the two women.
Parallel to Alex and Rachel's story the book follows the lives of Wallis and her friend Mary Kirk from their teenage years to adulthood,through Wallis,s many relationships and marriages until she beguiles and marries the future king of England.
The meticulous research into this book not only blows open the myth ofWallis and Edwards perfect love but also follows the life of Edward Simpson post Wallis and his subsequent marriage to Mary Kirk Wallis,s best friend.
A fantastic book cleverly crafted.
Five stars all the way.

Absolutely superb book. The author has taken facts and weaved an intriguing story around them. Very cleverly done.

I found this an interesting story about the life of Wallis Simpson before she became "THE Wallis Simpson" It is told as a modern story by comparing the life and influence of Wallis with that of Diana Princess of Wales. it is difficult to know how much of the story its based on truth, although the notes at the end talk about the research. it is an entertaining read.

This book is simply, utterly, completely fabulous!
It was much better than I expected it would be. The book runs with two time lines and I was hooked into both from the start. I loved the fact that it covered so much royal history, while having a small inventive part which was fictional which fitted right into the story and linked the two parts together I simply cannot enthuse about it enough. It is clear that the author has undertaken massive research and I appreciated her notes at the end with the explanations of what fact was included. Reading this book was one of the most enjoyable experiences I have had for a long time. I was sad for it to end. Very highly recommended.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.