Not what I thought

You need to want to know about this chap. I discovered I didn't. Edwina's life's account was entertaining. If you think this account will delve into Dickie's relationship with Charles. It doesn't. It's only mentioned here and there..

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Spoiled by low level audio

It was a struggle to hear the content. My single star relates not to the narration, which I could have appreciated more, had I been able to hear it clearly, but to the technical production.
I would prefer to have control over the volume, rather than have it set for me.

What sounds reasonable during a sample hearing becomes almost a whisper after purchase.

That aside, The Mountbattens did reveal a man who appeared to have relied heavily on title, and used it to maintain his position.
He and his wife were a good match, leaving legacies which will continue to be debated.

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Lost interest

Went on too long and by the end was loosing the will to live. Too much mundane waffle and lots of sex!

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Juicy details and good history

Enjoyed this book. At times it felt details were glossed over, but it is a good contrast to Daughter of Empire. Perhaps more truthful!

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Extremely eye opening!

Very well written book about this man and his wife. I remember his death from the TV at the time. As I listened, the more I thought that they both lived the life of riches and excess. They did what they liked, but also helped a lot along the way, especially during the WW2. The narrator is easy to listen to and it has been a joy to listen to.

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Interesting.

I enjoyed this book, despite some of the mixed reviews. It is a fascinating insight into the lives of two privileged, but very dysfunctional, people. I disagree with the reviewer who stated that this book doesn't give much insight into Mountbatten the man. I came away with the strong impression of a very emotionally immature man, promoted way beyond his capabilities because of his connections - something that clearly still goes on in our society today. The book would have made much more sense if Mountbatten's alleged homosexual and pederastic proclivities were discussed in a chronological way throughout the book, instead of right at the end. It would have contextualised the difficulties that defined the couple's entire relationship.

Altogether an entertaining book, with a stellar cast of characters, capably read by the author - always a plus.

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6 people found this helpful

Jaw-dropping in it's dissection of the Mountbatten’s private lives

Jaw-dropping in its dissection of the Mountbatten private lives. I had read the extracts in newspapers, but this is a much better book. The analysis of joint operations, his wartime command of SE ASIA and as the last Viceroy is stunning. The transformation of Edwina from a pleasure seeker to a woman of substance and value is the books lasting impression

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6 people found this helpful

Rehash of everything

so looked forward to listening to this book but unfortunately it was really a rehash of everything that has been written before

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1 person found this helpful

Interesting story of a complex couple.

I think some of the previous comments a little unfair. I found this a compelling insight into a complex marriage set against the turbulent history of the 20th century. It is a balanced narrative with lots of different viewpoints. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

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1 person found this helpful

A fascinating slice of British aristocracy life

A comprehensive & fascinating insight into two extraordinary lives. Learnt so much about these complex individuals.

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