DIARY OF A PALMIST: THE LIFE AND TIMES OF WILLIAM JOHN WARNER - WORLD FAMOUS AS ''CHEIRO"

by Stephen Dundon-Smith

For many years, William John Warner led an extraordinary life as ‘Cheiro the palmist’. This story is based on facts and details passed down through the generations.Rising from humble beginnings in Ireland, he befriended major celebrities and political figures of the time. Patronized by members of the English Royal family, European nobility, and American entrepreneurs, his success faded along with his looks. An extravagant life in Paris and London, led to financial pressures and dubious business practices. His involvement in the theft of the Duchess of Sutherland’s jewels, and the Irish Crown Jewels, provided capital to continue his deceptive behaviour. The mishandling of invested funds during his time as a Paris banker, forced him to flee France. Privy to covert murders, hidden pregnancies, and adulterous liaisons, Cheiro travelled the globe practicing his art. He wrote numerous books on the subject, demonstrating his knowledge and commitment to the science.There were intimate liaisons with men and women. William’s handsome features added greatly to his hypnotic power. Many fell victim to the dark charms of this young mystic including Oscar Wilde, Lord Alfred Douglas, the writer Robert Hichens, the artist Frank Miles, the dashing Francis Shackleton, (brother of Ernest, the explorer), the exotic Australian dancer Saharet, and the stage actresses Mary Eastlake, Olga Nethersole and Maud Jeffries. Working with the actors Sir Henry Irving and Wilson Barrett left a lasting impression on the young Irishman.During his life, ‘Cheiro the palmist’ gained and lost a substantial fortune. Who was this person, where did he come from, and how did he acquire his money?

362 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 16, 2023