A review by heidirgorecki
The English Wife by Anna Stuart

emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

 Well written and a really great look at the little known wife of Winston Churchill. I thought both Clementine and Jenny, who was modeled loosely off of Janet Murrow, were well developed and I felt both women’s ups and downs in the story and was invested in their characters. 

I liked how the author compared both women’s lives - and other peripheral women like Eleanor Roosevelt - in viewing independence and purpose in their lives and the war. It was a great look at how some women find fulfillment in having autonomy and independence and being successful in their endeavors working, but it is equally important for other women who invest their purpose in being selfless and supporting their husbands and making them successful instead. It is worth noting that if Churchill didn’t have Clementine putting her own needs second and putting his dreams first, he may not have been successful or won the war. She had just as important a role as more visible women but she was ok with someone else taking the lead and getting the credit. It’s a hard balance that isn’t black or white - I think each woman’s purpose is different and neither should be diminished.  

Really enjoyed the book. Love looking at women in history who made a huge impact but were never well known. 

Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this audiobook. All opinions are mine.