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Winston and the Windsors: How Churchill Shaped a Royal Dynasty – A USA Today Bestseller British History Biography of the House of Windsor
A USA TODAY BESTSELLER!
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Queen and Diana, a groundbreaking story of the riveting hot-and-cold relationship between the House of Windsor and Winston Churchill.
From an early age, Winston Churchill was convinced that he was a man of destiny. Today, it seems his premonition was correct—few figures in British history have been so deeply and consequently involved with the British family as Churchill. While many people in positions of power have advised kings and queens during their reign, Churchill was unique in his helping to shape not only a reign, but an entire royal dynasty.
In Winston and the Windsors, Andrew Morton, one of the world’s best-known biographers and a leading authority on celebrity, presents a meticulously researched joint biography of Winston Churchill and the House of Windsor. Throughout the course of his career and life, Churchill’s connection to the Windsors fluctuated wildly. At times, he was the royal family’s trusted confidant. At others, he was their leading antagonist. In exploring the complex dynamic between the two, Morton argues that, regardless of whether the attitudes of the royal family were warm or icy toward Churchill, their relationship was central to the twentieth-century history of the British monarchy.
From the Churchill family’s intricate relationship with the Crown, to Winston’s initially begrudging but ultimately fruitful partnership with George VI, to his enduring fondness for Queen Elizabeth II, this fascinating narrative biography sheds new light on the ways the Crown not only shaped Winston Churchill's career, but the ways in which Churchill shepherded the monarchy into the modern era.
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Queen and Diana, a groundbreaking story of the riveting hot-and-cold relationship between the House of Windsor and Winston Churchill.
From an early age, Winston Churchill was convinced that he was a man of destiny. Today, it seems his premonition was correct—few figures in British history have been so deeply and consequently involved with the British family as Churchill. While many people in positions of power have advised kings and queens during their reign, Churchill was unique in his helping to shape not only a reign, but an entire royal dynasty.
In Winston and the Windsors, Andrew Morton, one of the world’s best-known biographers and a leading authority on celebrity, presents a meticulously researched joint biography of Winston Churchill and the House of Windsor. Throughout the course of his career and life, Churchill’s connection to the Windsors fluctuated wildly. At times, he was the royal family’s trusted confidant. At others, he was their leading antagonist. In exploring the complex dynamic between the two, Morton argues that, regardless of whether the attitudes of the royal family were warm or icy toward Churchill, their relationship was central to the twentieth-century history of the British monarchy.
From the Churchill family’s intricate relationship with the Crown, to Winston’s initially begrudging but ultimately fruitful partnership with George VI, to his enduring fondness for Queen Elizabeth II, this fascinating narrative biography sheds new light on the ways the Crown not only shaped Winston Churchill's career, but the ways in which Churchill shepherded the monarchy into the modern era.
434 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2025
128 people are currently reading
3753 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Morton
85 books667 followersAndrew David Morton (born 1953) is one of the world's best-known biographers and a leading authority on modern celebrity. His groundbreaking biography Diana: Her True Story was a #1 New York Times bestseller, as was Monica's Story, an authorized biography of Monica Lewinsky, and Tom Cruise: An Unauthorized Biography. The winner of numerous awards, including Author of the Year, his other New York Times bestsellers include unauthorized biographies of Madonna and Angelina Jolie, as well as William & Catherine: Their Story. A former British Fleet Street tabloid journalist,he studied history at the University of Sussex. He lives in London.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/andrew...
http://us.macmillan.com/author/andrew...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
December 5, 2025
This book takes a bit of a different view of Sir Winston Churchill; as the title states it tells the story of Churchill's relationships with the British monarchy and his influence on the Kings and the Queen for whom he served as Prime Minister.
The book gives the reader a look at Churchill from childhood of which most readers who have studied the man are already aware. But it is still interesting and illustrates how he was determined to be "somebody" in order to please his inattentive parents. He certainly achieved his goal!
He was a difficult man who often interfered in politics, even when he wasn't in office and was not well liked by many in power. He was on the "wrong side" when Edward VIII decided to abdicate and he supported the soon to be Duke of Windsor through thick and thin (or at least for a time). He was a supporter of Empire and an avid Monarchist.
Then came the infamous Munich Agreement which was drafted by the then PM Neville Chamberlain and Adolf Hitler which Hitler broke immediately. Chamberlain was ousted and Churchill became PM. His relationship with the shy and nervous King George VI was initially rather distant but Churchill's personality and his total support of the King broke the ice. Thus began his "courting of the monarchy which served him well.
He was defeated after the War but came back with a bang to serve as PM to Queen Elizabeth II, although she was not as close to him as her father had been. His mental capacities began to wane and he left the playing field. But he left a mark on history which will forever be cherished.
I gave this book one less star since I felt that there were too many quotes from notes and letters between Churchill and the King/Queen. That became rather tiresome after a while and could have been reduced to those that were historically important. It may not bother other readers.
I would recommend this book to all those who want to know another side of Churchill which often isn't touched upon in other histories.
The book gives the reader a look at Churchill from childhood of which most readers who have studied the man are already aware. But it is still interesting and illustrates how he was determined to be "somebody" in order to please his inattentive parents. He certainly achieved his goal!
He was a difficult man who often interfered in politics, even when he wasn't in office and was not well liked by many in power. He was on the "wrong side" when Edward VIII decided to abdicate and he supported the soon to be Duke of Windsor through thick and thin (or at least for a time). He was a supporter of Empire and an avid Monarchist.
Then came the infamous Munich Agreement which was drafted by the then PM Neville Chamberlain and Adolf Hitler which Hitler broke immediately. Chamberlain was ousted and Churchill became PM. His relationship with the shy and nervous King George VI was initially rather distant but Churchill's personality and his total support of the King broke the ice. Thus began his "courting of the monarchy which served him well.
He was defeated after the War but came back with a bang to serve as PM to Queen Elizabeth II, although she was not as close to him as her father had been. His mental capacities began to wane and he left the playing field. But he left a mark on history which will forever be cherished.
I gave this book one less star since I felt that there were too many quotes from notes and letters between Churchill and the King/Queen. That became rather tiresome after a while and could have been reduced to those that were historically important. It may not bother other readers.
I would recommend this book to all those who want to know another side of Churchill which often isn't touched upon in other histories.
March 1, 2026
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. It does a great job of giving a biography of Churchill with the focus being on his relationships with the royal family from birth to death (and even more - nice stories of his parent's relations with the monarchy as well). This book makes me want to read more about George VI and Elizabeth II and that is the mark of a great story.
October 7, 2025
Very nice book on Winston Churchill and his life and career with the Windsors! He lived a great life serving the monarchy whether they liked it or not 😂. Sometimes they butted heads but mostly were intrigued and respectful towards each other. Each King and Queen he served with he was respectful of and they of him. He lived through some tough times with the Windsors and during trying times in the world. I believe if he could speak to us now he would say that he didn’t regret working with any of them because he truly loved his country, people, and sovereigns. Thank you Net Galley, publishers, and author for the arc. My thoughts and opinions are mine.
March 2, 2026
Works of non-fiction, if well composed, can read like novels.
Technically speaking, this happens when the author employs techniques such as plot driven structures, suspense, character development and vivid scene-setting in order to tell true stories.
And after reading “Winston and the Windsors” by Andrew Morton, I would agree with this, but even more the bittersweet sadness combined with deep satisfaction that I felt as I reached the last page of this incredible story.
I found myself in a complete state of awe and wonder at the way Morton packed such a wide sweep of history into a mere 359 pages, and how he managed to elevate this work into the realm of “great story” rather than just a chronological collection of dates, historical facts, and references.
The book, as its title suggests, is a telling of the historical relationship between the British Monarchy and Winston Churchill, and how he played a key role in shaping the version of the British royalty that the world came to know. But it’s my guess that Andrew Morton must’ve felt compelled to help us first understand who Winston Churchill actually was…not necessarily the distant mythical figure that the great statesman is to many who did not grow up in the times of his life, but a living, breathing person. One “worthy” for lack of a better word, to actually shape one of the most enduring royal dynasties in world history.
And it was in that telling of who Winston Churchill was that Andrew Morton did an outstanding job. He showed us the man, from many different perspectives, and at different phases of his life and career. Here were a few standouts for me:
First, were his parents, and the three-day, whirlwind romance between the “Marlboro Set” dandy Lord Randolph Churchill, and the nineteen-year-old Victorian beauty with a striking face and panther-like eyes, Brooklyn, New York native Jeanette Jerome. It seemed to me that Morton was not just revealing the historical record of the early romance between the two people who would become Winston’s parents, but rather, a kind of prologue to the telling of the life of the great man that was Winston, their son.
And even as I read, toward the end of this book, that Winston Churchill was considered by many to be as near to being British royalty as a commoner could possibly come, I couldn’t help but think back about Morton’s telling, early in the book of how his parents, Randolph and Jennie acted as “ersatz royalty” when they visited the Czar and Czarina in Moscow back in 1881. For me, these two, decades separate stories brilliantly demonstrate that while the lives and public service contributions of Winston’s parents were significant, and a matter of public record, the substance of those contributions, especially when viewed through the longer lens of history, would be far eclipsed by their son.
And if one were to assume that young Winston succeeded by means of his family name alone, you would be quickly dispelled of that notion as you read the story of how he made no less than three attempts to pass the exam in order to gain entrance to the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst to train for the cavalry. I could see, early on, how Morton used these stories to demonstrate just how powerful was this young man’s force of will at an early age.
As to the idea that Winston Churchill should possess the characteristics that would qualify him to be a history changer, first among them would be his courage.
Churchill himself acknowledged courage as a key ingredient of a person’s character when he was famously quoted as saying: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” And it was the stories that Morton so brilliantly talked about Churchill’s character that were a powerful storytelling thread throughout this book. Here was one standout for me:
It was Morton’s story about Churchill, having just been demoted from a senior government position in the wake of the Dardanelles Campaign failure, decides to resign from government, and take up active military service. He is given command of the Sixth (Service) Battalion of the Royal Scots Fusiliers, stationed near Ploegsteert Wood in Belgium. It was from the 5th of January, until May 16, 1916, that he serves, not as a figurehead officer, but rather a leader of the unit, sharing in the hardships of the trenches, and conducting patrols under the fire of enemy guns, right alongside his men.
Morton tells us, in a storytelling style that is compact, yet colorful, that it is here that Churchill earns the respect of those who served under him, and that one of his officers, Andrew Gibb (not to be confused with the English singer and teen idol of the 1970’s), wrote of Churchill at this time that, “No more popular officer ever commanded. He left behind men who will always be his loyal partisans and admirers.”
This was just one of many of Morton’s stories that, rather than tell us, showed us just how courageous Winston Churchill was. This, to me, was critical to the integrity of this entire book.
But there were other aspects of Winston Churchill’s personal make-up that Morton shone light on. I was delighted to read, for example, that he was something of a romantic as he proposed to Clementine at the Temple of Diana at Blenheim Palace. This came after a six-month, whirlwind courtship between the two, one where Winston swept the then Miss Hozier, off her feet.
Morton also told of Churchill as a visionary, which is yet another ingredient found in people who moved history. And of all the stories along these lines, my favorite was how Churchill, as Minister of Munitions, ensured that the tank, as a military tool of war, evolved from an idea to a reality.
And last but not least, as a qualifier for being dubbed a shaper of history, Morton spent a good amount of time on Churchill’s sense of humor.
One story about Churchillian humor was his advice to the young Prince of Wales on how to handle the tricky business of propping up his notes on the occasion of a dinner speech. Another, my favorite, came in the weeks leading up to the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, while Churchill was in New York City, he was questioned by the press on how Britain could possibly justify the public expenditure of such an extravagant event when Britain was in such dire economic straits. Winston gave them a sly grin and said, “Everybody likes to wear a flower when he goes to see his girl.”
Morton also spent significant time on the evolution of Churchill’s career, from freshman public servant to great statesman. This experience, I came to understand and appreciate, was yet another “qualifier” to name him as a shaper of history. Here I read of Churchill as one half of the “Terrible Twins” (along with David Lloyd George), Winston’s “tricky two-step” between being Home Secretary in government and a PR man of sorts for King George V, and his successful passage of the Irish Free State Bill, a victory that brought praise, even from those who would be his adversaries, such as IRA Quartermaster, Michael Collins who said, “We could never have done anything without him!”
And as the book progresses, Morton gradually inserts stories that demonstrated Winston’s faith in the institution of the British Monarchy, and the future of Britain itself. Early on, we read of his high-spirited and energetic belief in the institution, and his country as he makes a 100-pound bet with American millionaire James C. Young, right there in his Minneapolis home, that the British Empire would continue to thrive after the death of Queen Victoria.
Later, Morton tells us about how Churchill came through for King George V in a big way with the Mylius Affair, and most compellingly, the wonderful working relationship, and friendship that was forged between Churchill and King George VI during World War II. And of the many stories that show how he affected the British Royal Family, I was moved as I read the story of how the young Queen Elizabeth II was successful in conferring upon Churchill the title of Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, investing him with the proper insignia. The Queen’s father, King George VI, had tried, on a number of occasions, to bestow this honor on Churchill, but each time, he’d respectfully turned him down. It wasn’t until the young queen tried her hand at offering the honor that the great statesman finally accepted it. In the end, Morton tells us, King George triumphed.
Also, this story of history was filled with intriguing little vignettes that delighted me as I read them. A few that stood out for me were: The 3,000-carat diamond that was tossed out of a mine office window as trash, Churchill’s “Poisoned Chalice” promotion, and the “Ritzy Citizens of Mayfair” who took up arms. I especially loved the story of how, in the days leading up to her coronation, Queen Elizabeth II took up the habit of going about her day-to-day routines while wearing the five-pound Coronation Crown atop her head so that she could don it gracefully when the big day arrived.
Also, Morton shone light on a number of the members of the British Royal Family. Two that stood out for me were the Queen Mother, and Princess Margaret.
The Queen Mother, Queen Elizabeth, was, I learned, a steadfast woman of consequence. Her quiet strength, her wisdom and courage were well known, inside her family, and to the people of Britain. He stood resolutely beside the ruins of Buckingham Palace in 1940, a strong signal to all Britons that she and her family were right there with them during the London Blitz. So widely was she revered that even Adolf Hitler, dismayed by the way she so successfully buttressed the spirit of her fellow Britons right at the same time that he was trying to break their spirit, referred to her as, “The most dangerous woman in Europe.”
And upon her husband’s early death, and her daughter’s rise to the throne, this incredibly able woman suddenly found herself on the sidelines, much earlier than she should’ve been. She was about to consider early retirement to a quiet life in Scotland, when Churchill wisely “wrangled” her back from obscurity into the royal fold, and a long period of significant service to her country. Morton did a beautiful job of telling this important part of the story.
I particularly enjoyed learning more about Princess Margaret, especially the scene Morton painted of her as a 17-year-old, engaged in a “20-minute argument” with Josef Stalin’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Andrey Vyshinsky. Winston Churchill was witness to the scene and wrote about the argument, and how impressed he, and the others present were as they witnessed how the young princess articulated herself so well, and how her force of conviction was on such brilliant display. On the other side of her personality, it was delightful to read of Margaret’s penchant for playing jaunty show tunes on the piano as a way to lighten her spirits in difficult times.
After reading Morton’s accounts of Princess Margaret, I’m motivated to seek out a good biography of this most interesting woman.
These are but a very few of the reasons that I loved reading Andrew Morton’s “Winston and the Windsors.”
A five-star read!
Technically speaking, this happens when the author employs techniques such as plot driven structures, suspense, character development and vivid scene-setting in order to tell true stories.
And after reading “Winston and the Windsors” by Andrew Morton, I would agree with this, but even more the bittersweet sadness combined with deep satisfaction that I felt as I reached the last page of this incredible story.
I found myself in a complete state of awe and wonder at the way Morton packed such a wide sweep of history into a mere 359 pages, and how he managed to elevate this work into the realm of “great story” rather than just a chronological collection of dates, historical facts, and references.
The book, as its title suggests, is a telling of the historical relationship between the British Monarchy and Winston Churchill, and how he played a key role in shaping the version of the British royalty that the world came to know. But it’s my guess that Andrew Morton must’ve felt compelled to help us first understand who Winston Churchill actually was…not necessarily the distant mythical figure that the great statesman is to many who did not grow up in the times of his life, but a living, breathing person. One “worthy” for lack of a better word, to actually shape one of the most enduring royal dynasties in world history.
And it was in that telling of who Winston Churchill was that Andrew Morton did an outstanding job. He showed us the man, from many different perspectives, and at different phases of his life and career. Here were a few standouts for me:
First, were his parents, and the three-day, whirlwind romance between the “Marlboro Set” dandy Lord Randolph Churchill, and the nineteen-year-old Victorian beauty with a striking face and panther-like eyes, Brooklyn, New York native Jeanette Jerome. It seemed to me that Morton was not just revealing the historical record of the early romance between the two people who would become Winston’s parents, but rather, a kind of prologue to the telling of the life of the great man that was Winston, their son.
And even as I read, toward the end of this book, that Winston Churchill was considered by many to be as near to being British royalty as a commoner could possibly come, I couldn’t help but think back about Morton’s telling, early in the book of how his parents, Randolph and Jennie acted as “ersatz royalty” when they visited the Czar and Czarina in Moscow back in 1881. For me, these two, decades separate stories brilliantly demonstrate that while the lives and public service contributions of Winston’s parents were significant, and a matter of public record, the substance of those contributions, especially when viewed through the longer lens of history, would be far eclipsed by their son.
And if one were to assume that young Winston succeeded by means of his family name alone, you would be quickly dispelled of that notion as you read the story of how he made no less than three attempts to pass the exam in order to gain entrance to the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst to train for the cavalry. I could see, early on, how Morton used these stories to demonstrate just how powerful was this young man’s force of will at an early age.
As to the idea that Winston Churchill should possess the characteristics that would qualify him to be a history changer, first among them would be his courage.
Churchill himself acknowledged courage as a key ingredient of a person’s character when he was famously quoted as saying: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” And it was the stories that Morton so brilliantly talked about Churchill’s character that were a powerful storytelling thread throughout this book. Here was one standout for me:
It was Morton’s story about Churchill, having just been demoted from a senior government position in the wake of the Dardanelles Campaign failure, decides to resign from government, and take up active military service. He is given command of the Sixth (Service) Battalion of the Royal Scots Fusiliers, stationed near Ploegsteert Wood in Belgium. It was from the 5th of January, until May 16, 1916, that he serves, not as a figurehead officer, but rather a leader of the unit, sharing in the hardships of the trenches, and conducting patrols under the fire of enemy guns, right alongside his men.
Morton tells us, in a storytelling style that is compact, yet colorful, that it is here that Churchill earns the respect of those who served under him, and that one of his officers, Andrew Gibb (not to be confused with the English singer and teen idol of the 1970’s), wrote of Churchill at this time that, “No more popular officer ever commanded. He left behind men who will always be his loyal partisans and admirers.”
This was just one of many of Morton’s stories that, rather than tell us, showed us just how courageous Winston Churchill was. This, to me, was critical to the integrity of this entire book.
But there were other aspects of Winston Churchill’s personal make-up that Morton shone light on. I was delighted to read, for example, that he was something of a romantic as he proposed to Clementine at the Temple of Diana at Blenheim Palace. This came after a six-month, whirlwind courtship between the two, one where Winston swept the then Miss Hozier, off her feet.
Morton also told of Churchill as a visionary, which is yet another ingredient found in people who moved history. And of all the stories along these lines, my favorite was how Churchill, as Minister of Munitions, ensured that the tank, as a military tool of war, evolved from an idea to a reality.
And last but not least, as a qualifier for being dubbed a shaper of history, Morton spent a good amount of time on Churchill’s sense of humor.
One story about Churchillian humor was his advice to the young Prince of Wales on how to handle the tricky business of propping up his notes on the occasion of a dinner speech. Another, my favorite, came in the weeks leading up to the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, while Churchill was in New York City, he was questioned by the press on how Britain could possibly justify the public expenditure of such an extravagant event when Britain was in such dire economic straits. Winston gave them a sly grin and said, “Everybody likes to wear a flower when he goes to see his girl.”
Morton also spent significant time on the evolution of Churchill’s career, from freshman public servant to great statesman. This experience, I came to understand and appreciate, was yet another “qualifier” to name him as a shaper of history. Here I read of Churchill as one half of the “Terrible Twins” (along with David Lloyd George), Winston’s “tricky two-step” between being Home Secretary in government and a PR man of sorts for King George V, and his successful passage of the Irish Free State Bill, a victory that brought praise, even from those who would be his adversaries, such as IRA Quartermaster, Michael Collins who said, “We could never have done anything without him!”
And as the book progresses, Morton gradually inserts stories that demonstrated Winston’s faith in the institution of the British Monarchy, and the future of Britain itself. Early on, we read of his high-spirited and energetic belief in the institution, and his country as he makes a 100-pound bet with American millionaire James C. Young, right there in his Minneapolis home, that the British Empire would continue to thrive after the death of Queen Victoria.
Later, Morton tells us about how Churchill came through for King George V in a big way with the Mylius Affair, and most compellingly, the wonderful working relationship, and friendship that was forged between Churchill and King George VI during World War II. And of the many stories that show how he affected the British Royal Family, I was moved as I read the story of how the young Queen Elizabeth II was successful in conferring upon Churchill the title of Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, investing him with the proper insignia. The Queen’s father, King George VI, had tried, on a number of occasions, to bestow this honor on Churchill, but each time, he’d respectfully turned him down. It wasn’t until the young queen tried her hand at offering the honor that the great statesman finally accepted it. In the end, Morton tells us, King George triumphed.
Also, this story of history was filled with intriguing little vignettes that delighted me as I read them. A few that stood out for me were: The 3,000-carat diamond that was tossed out of a mine office window as trash, Churchill’s “Poisoned Chalice” promotion, and the “Ritzy Citizens of Mayfair” who took up arms. I especially loved the story of how, in the days leading up to her coronation, Queen Elizabeth II took up the habit of going about her day-to-day routines while wearing the five-pound Coronation Crown atop her head so that she could don it gracefully when the big day arrived.
Also, Morton shone light on a number of the members of the British Royal Family. Two that stood out for me were the Queen Mother, and Princess Margaret.
The Queen Mother, Queen Elizabeth, was, I learned, a steadfast woman of consequence. Her quiet strength, her wisdom and courage were well known, inside her family, and to the people of Britain. He stood resolutely beside the ruins of Buckingham Palace in 1940, a strong signal to all Britons that she and her family were right there with them during the London Blitz. So widely was she revered that even Adolf Hitler, dismayed by the way she so successfully buttressed the spirit of her fellow Britons right at the same time that he was trying to break their spirit, referred to her as, “The most dangerous woman in Europe.”
And upon her husband’s early death, and her daughter’s rise to the throne, this incredibly able woman suddenly found herself on the sidelines, much earlier than she should’ve been. She was about to consider early retirement to a quiet life in Scotland, when Churchill wisely “wrangled” her back from obscurity into the royal fold, and a long period of significant service to her country. Morton did a beautiful job of telling this important part of the story.
I particularly enjoyed learning more about Princess Margaret, especially the scene Morton painted of her as a 17-year-old, engaged in a “20-minute argument” with Josef Stalin’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Andrey Vyshinsky. Winston Churchill was witness to the scene and wrote about the argument, and how impressed he, and the others present were as they witnessed how the young princess articulated herself so well, and how her force of conviction was on such brilliant display. On the other side of her personality, it was delightful to read of Margaret’s penchant for playing jaunty show tunes on the piano as a way to lighten her spirits in difficult times.
After reading Morton’s accounts of Princess Margaret, I’m motivated to seek out a good biography of this most interesting woman.
These are but a very few of the reasons that I loved reading Andrew Morton’s “Winston and the Windsors.”
A five-star read!
September 29, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Hanover Square Press for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Winston Churchill was nothing if not a survivor. He served the government for decades, seeing Kings and Queens come and go. Winston and the Windsors explores the relationships he had with the Windsor family (Windsor became their brand in 1918, during WWI, when their family name was deemed too “German”.)
While Winston was involved in government since the beginning of the 20th century, he really became involved with the royal family when David, the Prince of Wales, was all grown up. They had an interesting relationship, and years later, during the Abdication Crisis, Winston made one of his rare political mistakes: he backed King Edward VIII, who wanted to marry Wallis Simpson. Churchill was the one who backed a morganatic marriage – Wallis and Edward would marry, but she would not become queen and none of their children would inherit the throne.
Winston maintained his relationship with the abdicated king when he became the Duke of Windsor. That made his brother, King George VI, and his wife, Queen Elizabeth, wary of Winston. It took several years before the king and queen trusted Churchill’s instinct. And that trust came at a crucial time: the beginning of WWII. The king, queen, and the PM worked together to form a juggernaut against the Axis powers. Collectively, there were few missteps.
This book is mostly an excavation of Churchill’s influence on the royal family across generations. There’s often a rich narrative that shows his public career against private tensions. The fact that historical forces collided and reshaped institutions should not be lost in the process.
I really liked the examination of Churchill’s relationship with Queen Elizabeth II, whom he knew since she was a young girl. It really was kismet that he was Prime Minister again when she came to the throne. His years of experience and wise council, in part, shaped the type of Queen she would be.
Winston Churchill was nothing if not a survivor. He served the government for decades, seeing Kings and Queens come and go. Winston and the Windsors explores the relationships he had with the Windsor family (Windsor became their brand in 1918, during WWI, when their family name was deemed too “German”.)
While Winston was involved in government since the beginning of the 20th century, he really became involved with the royal family when David, the Prince of Wales, was all grown up. They had an interesting relationship, and years later, during the Abdication Crisis, Winston made one of his rare political mistakes: he backed King Edward VIII, who wanted to marry Wallis Simpson. Churchill was the one who backed a morganatic marriage – Wallis and Edward would marry, but she would not become queen and none of their children would inherit the throne.
Winston maintained his relationship with the abdicated king when he became the Duke of Windsor. That made his brother, King George VI, and his wife, Queen Elizabeth, wary of Winston. It took several years before the king and queen trusted Churchill’s instinct. And that trust came at a crucial time: the beginning of WWII. The king, queen, and the PM worked together to form a juggernaut against the Axis powers. Collectively, there were few missteps.
This book is mostly an excavation of Churchill’s influence on the royal family across generations. There’s often a rich narrative that shows his public career against private tensions. The fact that historical forces collided and reshaped institutions should not be lost in the process.
I really liked the examination of Churchill’s relationship with Queen Elizabeth II, whom he knew since she was a young girl. It really was kismet that he was Prime Minister again when she came to the throne. His years of experience and wise council, in part, shaped the type of Queen she would be.
October 18, 2025
I recently had the privilege of reading one of the best histories of the British monarchy I have ever been exposed to in the above-titled book by Andrew Morton, and what a detailed proof it is. This, from a writer and journalist who has come to be known world-wide as not only a royal biographer of Diana, Princess of Wales, but Queen Elizabeth II, and her sister, Princess Margaret, among more recent royal figures, and Hollywood luminaries.
But there is something special in this biography to me because not only does it reveal the kinds of relationships within the Churchill household itself—from the time of his birth onward—but the nature of his relationships with the royal house of Windsor itself, and how he cultivated those relationships, friendly, fraught, unfriendly, and meanspirited to his whim from the time of his childhood until his political rise, after the First World War.
Churchill, more than any other western figure of the 20th Century understood the essential need for stability in an unwritten constitutional monarchy which some in the British Parliament saw as outdated, and wished to dismantle. When he died in 1965 he was seen as a genius of making that system work. So well, in fact, that during World War II, he became –as Prime Minister—essential to the survival of Great Britain when some wished to negotiate with the Nazis in Germany for a peace deal.
In Great Britain this was more intolerable than one could imagine. The names of the royal household themselves were Germanic in origin. Just before the start of the war, King Edward VIII abdicated his throne for “the woman I love” Wallis Simpson—twice divorced American socialite (the horror)—and was a known Nazi sympathizer. The royal household’s lineage was indeed German from the House of Hanover. They tried to smooth that name over with the anglicized name Mountbatten. It did not invite trust.
But his was a life of making friends in places where it seemed nearly impossible. His own father, Randolph discouraged him from a career in politics owing, perhaps, to his poor relationships with aristocrats due to his American wife. He steered Winston toward a military career which nearly ended disastrously but, due to good connections which knew how to capitalize on, retrieved him, and propelled him forward to the career in politics he craved.
And this is the forte in which Morton reports most effectively—the nature of the relationships with all of the royals, from George V to Elizabeth II and he Consort Philip II, who famously did not get on with Churchill at all.
The correspondence cited by Morton is superb and essential reading. Many Churchill scholars from Blenheim Palace and Cambridge University were consulted for details on the relationships which contributed to this excellent and entertaining read. I highly recommend it.
But there is something special in this biography to me because not only does it reveal the kinds of relationships within the Churchill household itself—from the time of his birth onward—but the nature of his relationships with the royal house of Windsor itself, and how he cultivated those relationships, friendly, fraught, unfriendly, and meanspirited to his whim from the time of his childhood until his political rise, after the First World War.
Churchill, more than any other western figure of the 20th Century understood the essential need for stability in an unwritten constitutional monarchy which some in the British Parliament saw as outdated, and wished to dismantle. When he died in 1965 he was seen as a genius of making that system work. So well, in fact, that during World War II, he became –as Prime Minister—essential to the survival of Great Britain when some wished to negotiate with the Nazis in Germany for a peace deal.
In Great Britain this was more intolerable than one could imagine. The names of the royal household themselves were Germanic in origin. Just before the start of the war, King Edward VIII abdicated his throne for “the woman I love” Wallis Simpson—twice divorced American socialite (the horror)—and was a known Nazi sympathizer. The royal household’s lineage was indeed German from the House of Hanover. They tried to smooth that name over with the anglicized name Mountbatten. It did not invite trust.
But his was a life of making friends in places where it seemed nearly impossible. His own father, Randolph discouraged him from a career in politics owing, perhaps, to his poor relationships with aristocrats due to his American wife. He steered Winston toward a military career which nearly ended disastrously but, due to good connections which knew how to capitalize on, retrieved him, and propelled him forward to the career in politics he craved.
And this is the forte in which Morton reports most effectively—the nature of the relationships with all of the royals, from George V to Elizabeth II and he Consort Philip II, who famously did not get on with Churchill at all.
The correspondence cited by Morton is superb and essential reading. Many Churchill scholars from Blenheim Palace and Cambridge University were consulted for details on the relationships which contributed to this excellent and entertaining read. I highly recommend it.
October 17, 2025
I've read many books on Winston Churchill, but this is the first I've read that focuses specifically on his relationship with the royal family- not as The Monarchy, but as individuals. In following his career there are certainly cases where his influence did help shape the monarchy's path, particularly during World War II, but it was the individual stories I found most interesting.
Churchill was born during the reign of Queen Victoria and his parents were close friends with her eldest son, the Prince of Wales and future King Edward VII. While I knew Edward and Churchill's mother Jennie had a close friendship, I'd never known how close the relationship between Edward and Winston was. Even after becoming king, Edward took the time to offer nearly parternal advise and praise to young Winston- something he never received from his own father. That section was perhaps my favorite to read for the new knowledge I gained and the stories it shared.
As a rising politician Churchill frequently clashed in his thoughts and policy ideals with the reigning monarch (especially George V!) and Morton includes notes and diary entries from George V with his thoughts on Churchill that were less than complementary at times. But each man was able to separate politics from the personal and it was fascinating to watch their developing relationships on different fronts.
Much of the information covering the Abdication Crisis, Winston's relationship with David (Edward VIII) and George VI wasn't new but still presented well. And within the context of the book it put a different spin on things I already knew. Morton goes deeply, if briefly into Churchill's relationship with Queen Elizabeth II and I greatly enjoyed that section- again the context of the book helped me see things I knew as well as new information (maybe just new to me) in new and interesting ways.
Winston and the Windsors is more than a new biography of Winston Churchill. It is a biography of the Windsor family and the monarchy throughout the first part of the 20th century, and the huge part that Churchill played in keeping it a strong institution in trying times. Anyone interested in Churchill, the British royal family, and 20th century Briish history should read the carefully researched and entertainingly written book.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Churchill was born during the reign of Queen Victoria and his parents were close friends with her eldest son, the Prince of Wales and future King Edward VII. While I knew Edward and Churchill's mother Jennie had a close friendship, I'd never known how close the relationship between Edward and Winston was. Even after becoming king, Edward took the time to offer nearly parternal advise and praise to young Winston- something he never received from his own father. That section was perhaps my favorite to read for the new knowledge I gained and the stories it shared.
As a rising politician Churchill frequently clashed in his thoughts and policy ideals with the reigning monarch (especially George V!) and Morton includes notes and diary entries from George V with his thoughts on Churchill that were less than complementary at times. But each man was able to separate politics from the personal and it was fascinating to watch their developing relationships on different fronts.
Much of the information covering the Abdication Crisis, Winston's relationship with David (Edward VIII) and George VI wasn't new but still presented well. And within the context of the book it put a different spin on things I already knew. Morton goes deeply, if briefly into Churchill's relationship with Queen Elizabeth II and I greatly enjoyed that section- again the context of the book helped me see things I knew as well as new information (maybe just new to me) in new and interesting ways.
Winston and the Windsors is more than a new biography of Winston Churchill. It is a biography of the Windsor family and the monarchy throughout the first part of the 20th century, and the huge part that Churchill played in keeping it a strong institution in trying times. Anyone interested in Churchill, the British royal family, and 20th century Briish history should read the carefully researched and entertainingly written book.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
November 15, 2025
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest evaluation of its merits.
This is a hard book to judge. Since I love all things British and I’ve been a social science teacher for the last 15 years, the combination of a book about Winston Churchill and the six monarchs under which he served was a natural fit for my TBR pile.
The research in this book is exhaustive and is especially impressive for an era when the main form of communication was in letters or telegrams. You feel like you are in the room at Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey or the House of Commons. The author practically puts you inside the head of this commoner who rose through British society to counsel Kings and a Queen with charm and style.
Speaking of authors, one has to take into account that this volume is authored by Andrew Morton. Now, he clearly is one of, if not the, pre-eminent royal biographer of our day, but his work does lean to the side of being gossipy. Knowing about Edward VIII uneven relationship with Winston was something valuable to understand. Discerning whether Churchill’s mother was a bit of a trollop maybe was not so important to know.
Morton’s writing style is both plain and proper in equal measure. I rarely have had a book that make me use the dictionary function as much as this one. On the flip side, only Andrew Morton could use the words “gauntlet” and “bromance” in the same paragraph and have them fit the context. And when he said that Winston got between a royal couple because now there were three people in their marriage, one could not help but think of the Princess Diana quote about now Queen Camilla and King Charles III (to be fair, that was from the Martin Bashir “Panorama” interview and wasn’t material Morton got on his own at the time). The point is that it seemed a bit anachronistic to use the line in a book about the generations before Charles and Diana (and, well, Camilla).
In the end, one might argue that spilling the hot goss about Winny and The Windsors is exactly appropriate for a man who rose above his station but never forgot his common routes. It is a bit “Times of London” and a bit “Daily Mail”, but maybe Winston was a bit of that as well.
This is a hard book to judge. Since I love all things British and I’ve been a social science teacher for the last 15 years, the combination of a book about Winston Churchill and the six monarchs under which he served was a natural fit for my TBR pile.
The research in this book is exhaustive and is especially impressive for an era when the main form of communication was in letters or telegrams. You feel like you are in the room at Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey or the House of Commons. The author practically puts you inside the head of this commoner who rose through British society to counsel Kings and a Queen with charm and style.
Speaking of authors, one has to take into account that this volume is authored by Andrew Morton. Now, he clearly is one of, if not the, pre-eminent royal biographer of our day, but his work does lean to the side of being gossipy. Knowing about Edward VIII uneven relationship with Winston was something valuable to understand. Discerning whether Churchill’s mother was a bit of a trollop maybe was not so important to know.
Morton’s writing style is both plain and proper in equal measure. I rarely have had a book that make me use the dictionary function as much as this one. On the flip side, only Andrew Morton could use the words “gauntlet” and “bromance” in the same paragraph and have them fit the context. And when he said that Winston got between a royal couple because now there were three people in their marriage, one could not help but think of the Princess Diana quote about now Queen Camilla and King Charles III (to be fair, that was from the Martin Bashir “Panorama” interview and wasn’t material Morton got on his own at the time). The point is that it seemed a bit anachronistic to use the line in a book about the generations before Charles and Diana (and, well, Camilla).
In the end, one might argue that spilling the hot goss about Winny and The Windsors is exactly appropriate for a man who rose above his station but never forgot his common routes. It is a bit “Times of London” and a bit “Daily Mail”, but maybe Winston was a bit of that as well.
February 2, 2026
This book is what it purports to be as set out in the title: WINSTON AND THE WINDSORS: How Churchill shaped a Royal Dynasty.
It explores in depth each monarch, from Queen Victoria-Queen Elizabeth II, and their unique relationships with Winston Churchill. Thus, there is not too much about Churchill's own personal life, except when it coincides or relates to a crucial point of the monarch's reign. While well-written and engaging, there are definitely some serious omissions or "spins" regarding certain aspects of history within the time period covered, that leave some gaping holes and/or create different slants in the narrative. The book as a whole, smacks strongly of sticking to the "official Royal Family" line! I think there are a lot of questionable things mixed in with the otherwise well-researched and presented story of Churchill's rise to influence and power. Not being privy to any insider facts or secrets, of course, I can't say for sure where reality and fiction begins or ends. I just have read or encountered too many other versions of such events as Gallipoli, Edward VIII's abdication, the bombing of Coventry, etc. to accept this telling without a large grain of salt! Another issue that plagued Winston Churchill throughout his life, clinical depression, that he called his "Black Dog," is not mentioned at all, even though it must have hindered him in many ways.
Parts that I thought were safely true include information on the numerous heart attacks,
strokes, and repeated bouts of pneumonia that Churchill suffered during and after the war. The fact that he managed to live to be 90 is in the realm of the miraculous!
I enjoyed the photos that span his long life time, and which often depict the royalty whom he served so steadfastly. I appreciated the warm friendship that developed between King George VI and Churchill, as together they faced the actual horrors and dreadful possibilities of WWII.
Alas, this book does not do quite enough honor to a man who was basically ignored by his parents, and who had as many failures to his name as he had accolades, but who triumphed over political trends, personal enemies, and public ridicule, to become THE greatest Briton of the 20th century!
It explores in depth each monarch, from Queen Victoria-Queen Elizabeth II, and their unique relationships with Winston Churchill. Thus, there is not too much about Churchill's own personal life, except when it coincides or relates to a crucial point of the monarch's reign. While well-written and engaging, there are definitely some serious omissions or "spins" regarding certain aspects of history within the time period covered, that leave some gaping holes and/or create different slants in the narrative. The book as a whole, smacks strongly of sticking to the "official Royal Family" line! I think there are a lot of questionable things mixed in with the otherwise well-researched and presented story of Churchill's rise to influence and power. Not being privy to any insider facts or secrets, of course, I can't say for sure where reality and fiction begins or ends. I just have read or encountered too many other versions of such events as Gallipoli, Edward VIII's abdication, the bombing of Coventry, etc. to accept this telling without a large grain of salt! Another issue that plagued Winston Churchill throughout his life, clinical depression, that he called his "Black Dog," is not mentioned at all, even though it must have hindered him in many ways.
Parts that I thought were safely true include information on the numerous heart attacks,
strokes, and repeated bouts of pneumonia that Churchill suffered during and after the war. The fact that he managed to live to be 90 is in the realm of the miraculous!
I enjoyed the photos that span his long life time, and which often depict the royalty whom he served so steadfastly. I appreciated the warm friendship that developed between King George VI and Churchill, as together they faced the actual horrors and dreadful possibilities of WWII.
Alas, this book does not do quite enough honor to a man who was basically ignored by his parents, and who had as many failures to his name as he had accolades, but who triumphed over political trends, personal enemies, and public ridicule, to become THE greatest Briton of the 20th century!
October 5, 2025
I received an ARC copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review on my Goodreads page. This book is due out October 21, 2025.
Having tackled Andrew Roberts’s massive tome on Churchill earlier this year, I was eager to pick up a book that focused specifically on Churchill’s relationship with the royal Windsors (although, as the author notes, they were not originally Windsors). This volume offers a more intimate and accessible portrait of the man through his lifelong connection to Britain’s monarchs—from his birth under Queen Victoria’s reign to his death during the time of Queen Elizabeth II.
The premise is simple but compelling: Churchill’s influence on both the royal family and British politics was profound and enduring. The author succeeds in illustrating that his presence was not merely tangential to the Crown—it was formative. Through well-researched anecdotes and vivid historical detail, the book demonstrates how Churchill’s relationship with successive monarchs helped shape not just their reigns, but the very image of modern constitutional monarchy as well as their personal family politics and drama.
The writing is clear, engaging, and free of unnecessary academic weight. Despite its historical scope, the book moves briskly and holds the reader’s attention from start to finish. It’s an informative and surprisingly personal look at a figure we often think we already know.
I recommend this to anyone interested in Churchill, royal history, or the evolving balance between tradition and leadership in 20th-century Britain. It’s an elegant, readable companion to more exhaustive Churchill biographies—and a reminder that history’s greatest figures rarely stand alone.
Having tackled Andrew Roberts’s massive tome on Churchill earlier this year, I was eager to pick up a book that focused specifically on Churchill’s relationship with the royal Windsors (although, as the author notes, they were not originally Windsors). This volume offers a more intimate and accessible portrait of the man through his lifelong connection to Britain’s monarchs—from his birth under Queen Victoria’s reign to his death during the time of Queen Elizabeth II.
The premise is simple but compelling: Churchill’s influence on both the royal family and British politics was profound and enduring. The author succeeds in illustrating that his presence was not merely tangential to the Crown—it was formative. Through well-researched anecdotes and vivid historical detail, the book demonstrates how Churchill’s relationship with successive monarchs helped shape not just their reigns, but the very image of modern constitutional monarchy as well as their personal family politics and drama.
The writing is clear, engaging, and free of unnecessary academic weight. Despite its historical scope, the book moves briskly and holds the reader’s attention from start to finish. It’s an informative and surprisingly personal look at a figure we often think we already know.
I recommend this to anyone interested in Churchill, royal history, or the evolving balance between tradition and leadership in 20th-century Britain. It’s an elegant, readable companion to more exhaustive Churchill biographies—and a reminder that history’s greatest figures rarely stand alone.
November 17, 2025
Winston Churchill was born prematurely on November 30, 1874 to Randolph and Jennie Churchill. His mother was an American socialite. He was sent to boarding schools where he suffered at the hands of cruel instructors. He was essentially ignored by his parents as they were busy with their social life. While Winston was not a good student, he did excel in history and could memorize lengthy tomes.
He was stubborn, determined and spoke eloquently his entire life. He often clashed with the Kings that he served. However, he always came through and essentially “saved the day.” His relationship with King Edward as he helped guide him to abdicate was well done. Afterward, he had to be so diplomatic to keep Edward and Wallis from making political problems for England.
The crafty and intelligent ways that he handled World War I and World War II played a huge part in Britain winning the wars.
Winston was a very talented artist and as he got a bit older, he enjoyed trips to the countryside where he could paint and relax.
Up to the end of his days, he was unwavering loyal to the royal family and completely adored Queen Elizabeth. Theirs was a true and lasting friendship.
I have always loved reading about Winston Churchill and admire him so very much. This book is more intricately researched and written than any other that I have ever read about Churchill and I am immensely grateful to have had the chance to read it. Enjoy!
Copy provided by Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review.
He was stubborn, determined and spoke eloquently his entire life. He often clashed with the Kings that he served. However, he always came through and essentially “saved the day.” His relationship with King Edward as he helped guide him to abdicate was well done. Afterward, he had to be so diplomatic to keep Edward and Wallis from making political problems for England.
The crafty and intelligent ways that he handled World War I and World War II played a huge part in Britain winning the wars.
Winston was a very talented artist and as he got a bit older, he enjoyed trips to the countryside where he could paint and relax.
Up to the end of his days, he was unwavering loyal to the royal family and completely adored Queen Elizabeth. Theirs was a true and lasting friendship.
I have always loved reading about Winston Churchill and admire him so very much. This book is more intricately researched and written than any other that I have ever read about Churchill and I am immensely grateful to have had the chance to read it. Enjoy!
Copy provided by Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 25, 2026
In this incredible new royal history book from top biographer Andrew Morton, readers follow Winston Churchill’s rise to power and evolving relationship with multiple generations of the Windsor royal family. This relationship greatly changed, and Morton explores this fluctuating dynamic and argues that, regardless of the royal family’s attitudes, this relationship shaped the history of the royal family and the United Kingdom in the twentieth century. Exploring both Winston Churchill’s personal relationships and his aristocratic family’s complex position with the royal family, this book offers a fascinating and compelling narrative insight into the modernization of the royal family and Churchill’s political career. Packed with incredible details and a lot of history, this mix of political history and royal biography adds complexity to these famous political figures and the circumstances at play during their tenures. Morton is a brilliant writer and researcher, and readers will really appreciate his knowledge in this important analysis of this formative political relationship. The details and documents present in the book really add nuance to this discussion and demonstrate the many iterations of this specific relationship. Nuanced, detailed, and brilliant, royal history fans will love Morton’s latest political bistro book featuring Winston Churchill and the royal family.
Thanks to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Hanover Square Press for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Hanover Square Press for the advance copy.
October 28, 2025
I have read numerous books about Winston Churchill, but never any about the Windsor family. To be honest, I am not all that interested in the Royal Family. But this book captivated me. I knew the story of Winston's upbringing and the unsettled relationship with his father, but how it entwined with the Royals was fascinating. Starting with Queen Victoria, from whom Churchill received a commission as a first lieutenant, through her son King Edward VII in which his political career began, through World War 1 with King George V, in which he served as the First Lord of the Admiralty, through the abdication crisis with Bertie, to King George VI and World War II as Prime Minister, and again as PM for Queen Elizabeth.
The detail that Morton brought to the relationship between Churchill and the Royals was enlightening. While Churchill's role as Prime Minister during World War II is well know, the relationship that he and King George developed was fascinating. And how that relationship continued with Elizabeth was heartwarming.
This was a quick and joyful read, not deep in history, but deep in the unique relationship between Winston Churchill and the house of Windsor. I would highly recommend this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hanover Square Press for the digital copy of this book for my unbiased review.
The detail that Morton brought to the relationship between Churchill and the Royals was enlightening. While Churchill's role as Prime Minister during World War II is well know, the relationship that he and King George developed was fascinating. And how that relationship continued with Elizabeth was heartwarming.
This was a quick and joyful read, not deep in history, but deep in the unique relationship between Winston Churchill and the house of Windsor. I would highly recommend this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hanover Square Press for the digital copy of this book for my unbiased review.
January 18, 2026
My love of history and “anything Royal” drew me to this book and it did not disappoint. Although there have been numerous memoirs recapping the incredible life of imposing figure, Winston and the Windsors explores the complicated connection that Churchill had with the House of Windsor. This important relationship would ultimately shape both his career and the modernization of the British monarchy in the 20th century.
In Winston and the Windsors, renowned biographer Andrew Morton delves into Winston Churchill’s intricate, often hidden relationship with the royal family – a bond that shifts between profound loyalty and sharp conflict. His meticulous research traces how Churchill’s fate became entwined with that of the monarchy, influencing the evolution of the Crown and helping to steer it into the modern era. From Churchill’s role in the Abdication Crisis to his partnership with George VI during World War II, and his lasting respect for Queen Elizabeth II, the account highlights a lifelong connection that shaped both the man and the monarchy
This book centers on a figure who shaped the course of U.K. history, offering a compelling blend of ambition, tradition, and historical insight. It’s essential reading for anyone drawn to the forces that drive politics, the sweep of the past, and the hidden stories behind the British throne
In Winston and the Windsors, renowned biographer Andrew Morton delves into Winston Churchill’s intricate, often hidden relationship with the royal family – a bond that shifts between profound loyalty and sharp conflict. His meticulous research traces how Churchill’s fate became entwined with that of the monarchy, influencing the evolution of the Crown and helping to steer it into the modern era. From Churchill’s role in the Abdication Crisis to his partnership with George VI during World War II, and his lasting respect for Queen Elizabeth II, the account highlights a lifelong connection that shaped both the man and the monarchy
This book centers on a figure who shaped the course of U.K. history, offering a compelling blend of ambition, tradition, and historical insight. It’s essential reading for anyone drawn to the forces that drive politics, the sweep of the past, and the hidden stories behind the British throne
November 11, 2025
Being an American learning the structure of other countries politics is fascinating. It was so fascinating how close the Winston's family and the House of Windsor were. Churchill's mother was a close friend to Queen Victoria's eldest son, the Prince of Wales and future King Edward VII. King Edward was very kind of Winston and looked after him. It really directed his life from there and he always had a relationship with the Windsors from King Edward VII to Elizabeth II, he was there to serve them even if they really did not always appreciate his input.
Winston and the Windsors is more than a biography of just Churchill. It is a biography of the Royal family, the Windsors and their monarchy and how Churchill played a part in keeping the institute strong and together.
The cover was what really drew me in because Churchill had such a great relationship with Queen Elizabeth II, but not so much her husband, Philip. The mentions of the Queen probably stuck with me the most because it is what I am most familiar with. It is amazing how well this book was researched and how much of it was documented.
4.5 stars
Winston and the Windsors is more than a biography of just Churchill. It is a biography of the Royal family, the Windsors and their monarchy and how Churchill played a part in keeping the institute strong and together.
The cover was what really drew me in because Churchill had such a great relationship with Queen Elizabeth II, but not so much her husband, Philip. The mentions of the Queen probably stuck with me the most because it is what I am most familiar with. It is amazing how well this book was researched and how much of it was documented.
4.5 stars
January 16, 2026
This new biography concentrates less on Winston Churchill’s political interactions and more on his personal interactions with the Royal Family. He lived through the reigns of six monarchs, born in 1874 during the Victorian Age. He had an ingrained reverence for constitutional monarchy that never wavered throughout his life. There were some monarchs and their queens/consorts who did not initially trust him but over time they all gained respect for him as a person and as a leader. They learned to trust his wisdom and judgment on most matters. He became a close and trusted advisor, friend and confidante to several, including Edward VII, George VI and Elizabeth II.
I appreciated the author’s research and his weaving of quotes into the narrative. I always feel more comfortable when I read actual quotes rather than the author’s interpretation of the quotes. I hesitated to rate this book 5* because of several spelling/editing errors in the text as well as the wrong date for one of the events in Churchill’s life. In the end, the information provided in such an engaging manner pushed me to the 5* rating and I encourage anyone with an interest in British history to read this book.
I appreciated the author’s research and his weaving of quotes into the narrative. I always feel more comfortable when I read actual quotes rather than the author’s interpretation of the quotes. I hesitated to rate this book 5* because of several spelling/editing errors in the text as well as the wrong date for one of the events in Churchill’s life. In the end, the information provided in such an engaging manner pushed me to the 5* rating and I encourage anyone with an interest in British history to read this book.
November 2, 2025
5 stars
An eye opening account of the sometimes fraught, other times congenial relationship Churchill possessed with the Windsor monarchs. From the time of Queen Victoria who ruled over the massive British empire to her son, affable King Vii to his son, the rigid King George V onto the charismatic Duke of Windsor then the shy, family man King George VI and finally to the indomitable Queen Elizabeth II, Churchill’s relationship with the monarchy was complicated.
Regardless though of whose head wore the crown, Churchill’s support of the monarchy was steadfast. His career had ups and downs. At times, his personality traits for better or worse got in the way of those relationships.
Author draws on both primary and secondary sources which makes for a fascinating read. Hearing more about the Duke of Windsor both pre and post abdication as well as his troubling closeness to Nazi sympathizers was interesting.
This ARC was provided by the publisher, Harlequin Trade Publishing | Hanover Square Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
An eye opening account of the sometimes fraught, other times congenial relationship Churchill possessed with the Windsor monarchs. From the time of Queen Victoria who ruled over the massive British empire to her son, affable King Vii to his son, the rigid King George V onto the charismatic Duke of Windsor then the shy, family man King George VI and finally to the indomitable Queen Elizabeth II, Churchill’s relationship with the monarchy was complicated.
Regardless though of whose head wore the crown, Churchill’s support of the monarchy was steadfast. His career had ups and downs. At times, his personality traits for better or worse got in the way of those relationships.
Author draws on both primary and secondary sources which makes for a fascinating read. Hearing more about the Duke of Windsor both pre and post abdication as well as his troubling closeness to Nazi sympathizers was interesting.
This ARC was provided by the publisher, Harlequin Trade Publishing | Hanover Square Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2025
The history of the British Royal Family has always fascinated me, especially the relationship between the House of Windsor and Winston Churchill. Andrew Morton, one of my favorite Royal biographers, takes us deep into that relationship. From his rise through politics during the tumultuous times of WWI and WWII, the abdication of King Edward, the death of his dear friend King George, and the stabilizing effect of Queen Elizabeth, Churchill partnered with, advised, and guided the Commonwealth during some of the most significant world events. His ability to balance a parliamentary democracy with his respect for the Constitutional Monarchy highlights his skills and sometimes weaknesses, cementing his place in world history.
Andrew Morton continues to show his talent for writing history in a fascinating, highly readable, and understandable way. Having read most of his books, I find him to be one of the preeminent historians of our time, and I look forward to reading and learning more from his books.
Andrew Morton continues to show his talent for writing history in a fascinating, highly readable, and understandable way. Having read most of his books, I find him to be one of the preeminent historians of our time, and I look forward to reading and learning more from his books.
October 23, 2025
This is very well researched and in depth. I am a big fan of Royal biographies. I did not learn a whole lot I did not know. But, I did enjoy the section about Winston and King Edward. I had forgotten what a huge role Winston played in keeping Edward in line after he abdicated.
Winston and Queen Elizabeth also had a unique relationship. Their admiration of each other was an essential part of their dynamic.
Winston was a powerful force with his intelligence and his energetic charisma. Andrew Morton does a fabulous job bringing this to the forefront. He also did a great job with Winston’s funeral. I teared up with the admiration shown to this man who helped shape a dynasty but also changed the world.
Johnathan Keeble is the narrator and he could not have been better. He was regal and noble throughout.
Need a good royal biography…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this from the publisher for a honest review.
Winston and Queen Elizabeth also had a unique relationship. Their admiration of each other was an essential part of their dynamic.
Winston was a powerful force with his intelligence and his energetic charisma. Andrew Morton does a fabulous job bringing this to the forefront. He also did a great job with Winston’s funeral. I teared up with the admiration shown to this man who helped shape a dynasty but also changed the world.
Johnathan Keeble is the narrator and he could not have been better. He was regal and noble throughout.
Need a good royal biography…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this from the publisher for a honest review.
October 27, 2025
Here is a unique look at Sir Winston Churchill's relationship with the Royal families of the House of Windsor. From his beginning literally with Edward the VII, through meetings with a dubious George VI in the early days of World War II and through that strong partnership which developed. From Winston's doubts initially regarding a young Elizabeth II to a quick, admiring and loving reassessment an relationship. Andrew Morton is always a fresh while well researched read. In these pages his past research into Edward VIII, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor also reasserts itself and I'm always amazed that in the darkest days of World War II testing the Monarchy, the people of London and Winston Edward was obsessed with the HRH title for the Duchess and a reception for her by his estranged family. This is well researched and sparkling history of interest to those new to this story and those like me who always enjoy this time in history.
December 22, 2025
Fans of the British royal family and Anglophiles in general will enjoy the personal look into the relationship between the Churchill family and the Windsors. Not limited to the prime minister, Andrew Morton takes readers to his ancestors who've had any personal and/or professional dealings with England's princes and princesses.
Perhaps, for me, the biggest takeaway is a deeper insight into Churchill's personality--both emotionally charged for all things royal and as a sentimental romantic, which may often cloud his better judgment.
Also, one nice surprise is a different take on the often-viewed insecure King George VI (father of Queen Elizabeth II). If nothing, this nonfiction historical account presents the monarch as deeply patriotic and one who can have strong opinions on how things could've or ought've been. This is a side rarely shown in mainstream movies and in blurbs on King George VI.
Perhaps, for me, the biggest takeaway is a deeper insight into Churchill's personality--both emotionally charged for all things royal and as a sentimental romantic, which may often cloud his better judgment.
Also, one nice surprise is a different take on the often-viewed insecure King George VI (father of Queen Elizabeth II). If nothing, this nonfiction historical account presents the monarch as deeply patriotic and one who can have strong opinions on how things could've or ought've been. This is a side rarely shown in mainstream movies and in blurbs on King George VI.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2026
Convinced from youth that he was destined for greatness, Winston Churchill went on to forge an unusual relationship with the British monarchy, shaping not just individual reigns but the modern royal dynasty itself. From trusted confidant to fierce critic, Crown and statesman profoundly shaped one another as Britain entered the modern age.
This was a very interesting read. I knew a little about Winston Churchill, mostly from fictional movies and shows. While this isn’t a complete biography, it shares the close ties his family had with the British monarchy (some a bit scandalous!) and how indispensable he became to several generations.
There was no section that felt bogged down with detail, but each chapter felt thorough. The writing was not dry. Readers interested in British history will definitely enjoy this one.
I received an advance reader copy via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own.
This was a very interesting read. I knew a little about Winston Churchill, mostly from fictional movies and shows. While this isn’t a complete biography, it shares the close ties his family had with the British monarchy (some a bit scandalous!) and how indispensable he became to several generations.
There was no section that felt bogged down with detail, but each chapter felt thorough. The writing was not dry. Readers interested in British history will definitely enjoy this one.
I received an advance reader copy via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own.
October 27, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this ARC!
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This book was....long. I mostly wanted to read it because I was fascinated by Queen Elizabeth's relationship with Winston Churchill after seeing it on the Crown (sorry!!). I'm not saying the information was not great, it was a very informative book. However, The Churchill's relationship with the Windsor family started long before Queen Elizabeth was even born, and I had not considered that when being interested in this book. However, once you get going it's clear you cannot begin Winston's relationship with the Windsor's without first going over his parent's relationship with the Windsor's. So, I selfishly wish this was more geared toward Queen Elizabeth's relationship but that does not mean it was not a very well written, informative, history book!!
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This book was....long. I mostly wanted to read it because I was fascinated by Queen Elizabeth's relationship with Winston Churchill after seeing it on the Crown (sorry!!). I'm not saying the information was not great, it was a very informative book. However, The Churchill's relationship with the Windsor family started long before Queen Elizabeth was even born, and I had not considered that when being interested in this book. However, once you get going it's clear you cannot begin Winston's relationship with the Windsor's without first going over his parent's relationship with the Windsor's. So, I selfishly wish this was more geared toward Queen Elizabeth's relationship but that does not mean it was not a very well written, informative, history book!!
October 29, 2025
Andrew Morton's newest book, Winston and the Windsors is a fascinating look at the sometimes-contentious, sometimes delightful and always relationships Winston Churchill developed with Britain's royal family, starting with the reign of Edward VII and ending with his friendship with Queen Elizabeth II, The book covers such major events as WWI, WWII and the Abdication scandal of 1936.
The book is a fascinating read. Andrew Morton writes history that reads like a novel. Winston and the Windsors offers a new look at Winston Churchill, showing a man who, while being one of the largest and most important personalities in world history, was also very human and dedicated not only to his country, but to its monarchy . I can't recommend this book enough.
I received an advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
The book is a fascinating read. Andrew Morton writes history that reads like a novel. Winston and the Windsors offers a new look at Winston Churchill, showing a man who, while being one of the largest and most important personalities in world history, was also very human and dedicated not only to his country, but to its monarchy . I can't recommend this book enough.
I received an advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
December 22, 2025
Author Andrew Morton’s newest book is an intriguing account of the relationship between the Windsors and Winston Churchill. The relationship changed over time and was understandably nuanced to the particular Windsor and Churchill. For example, Churchill had a strong fondness and connection with the Queen. What I loved most is how the book explores the dynamics in how each shaped the other: Churchill and his shaping of the modern monarchy, as well as the Windsors’ manner of shaping Churchill’s work and legacy.
I was intrigued throughout!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
I was intrigued throughout!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
September 21, 2025
Fascinating and engaging, this biography about Churchill and his relationship with the Windsors is excellent. It starts with his parents and the unusual circumstances of his birth and takes the reader all the way to his extraordinary funeral. In between is an insightful delve into a life intertwined with the Royal Family and how, despite a bulldog personality and politics, his wisdom, extraordinary oratory skills, and his passionate support of the monarchy shaped and saved the Windsor family and the world. An excellent book that will be a pleasure with every rereading.
I received a prepublication edition of this book through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review of this book.
I received a prepublication edition of this book through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review of this book.
November 5, 2025
Winston and the Windsors follows the political life of Winston Churchill and his relationships with six monarchs.
This book really went from the day of his birth through his death. I’m American so I had no idea that the PM was so involved with the monarch’s life. Or maybe that was just Churchill haha. This was a slow read for me, so unfortunately I didn’t finish before pub day. I think I’m not as interested in Churchill as I thought. Queen Elizabeth was on the cover and she’s who I’ve been interested in reading about. If you like history and details this is definitely the book for you!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
This book really went from the day of his birth through his death. I’m American so I had no idea that the PM was so involved with the monarch’s life. Or maybe that was just Churchill haha. This was a slow read for me, so unfortunately I didn’t finish before pub day. I think I’m not as interested in Churchill as I thought. Queen Elizabeth was on the cover and she’s who I’ve been interested in reading about. If you like history and details this is definitely the book for you!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
November 19, 2025
3.5. Though a bit verbose and repetitive at times (such as continually referring to Churchill as "the great man" instead of "he" or "him") this nonetheless was a very interesting look at Winston Churchill not just in his capacity as the leader of Britain during WWII, but in how his relationship to the royal family helped shaped English history. Churchill absolutely adored the monarchy, and was a faithful and devoted servant to his Sovereign until the very end of his life. This book provides a compelling look into the life of a man born into aristocracy, who became an enormous figure not in just Britain, but in the world.
December 14, 2025
I quite enjoyed this book and would recommend it with the caveat that it is not a biography of any of the people involved. There's a lot of info about everyone, but it really does focus on the relationships between monarchs and Churchill. It took me a while to read it because I kept wondering about events and having to look things up! That's not a bad thing, I did learn a lot.
The result of reading this book is that I learned Churchill was a very complex man, but he loved the monarchs he worked with. It was wonderful to read excerpts from letters and other correspondence between them all.
The result of reading this book is that I learned Churchill was a very complex man, but he loved the monarchs he worked with. It was wonderful to read excerpts from letters and other correspondence between them all.
October 26, 2025
This joint biography explores the complex and influential relationship between Winston Churchill and the House of Windsor. From shaping individual reigns to guiding the dynasty into the modern era, Churchill’s impact was pivotal to the British monarchy’s twentieth-century history.
This fascinating, brilliantly written book brims with human stories. The historical aspects are compelling, shown from the personal perspective of the people involved. The book is well-researched and a pleasure to read.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This fascinating, brilliantly written book brims with human stories. The historical aspects are compelling, shown from the personal perspective of the people involved. The book is well-researched and a pleasure to read.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
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