Ike and Kay

by James MacManus

A historical novel based on the true story of the secret love affair at the heart of World War II amidst the Blitz in London. In 1942, Kay Summersby's life is changed forever when she is conscripted to drive General Eisenhower on his fact-finding visit to wartime London. Despite Eisenhower’s marriage to Mamie, the pair takes an immediate liking to each other, and he buys Kay a rare wartime a box of chocolates. So begins a tumultuous relationship that, against all military regulation, sees Kay traveling with Eisenhower on missions to far-flung places before the final assault on Nazi Germany. The general does dangerously little to conceal his affair with the woman widely known as “Ike’s shadow,” and in letters Mamie bemoans his new obsession with “Ireland.” That does not stop him from using his influence to grant Kay citizenship and rank in the U.S. Army, drawing her closer still when he returns to America. When officials discover Eisenhower’s plans to divorce from his wife, they threaten the fragile but passionate affair, and Kay is forced to take desperate measures to hold onto the man she loves . . . Based on the scandalous true story of General Eisenhower’s secret World War II love affair, Ike and Kay is a compelling story of love, duty, sacrifice, and heartbreak, set against the backdrop of the most tumultuous period of the twentieth century.Praise for Ike and Kay “Ike and Kay sets the backdrop for an important time in history . . . [and] brings to life controversial romances and characters that shaped world history during the twentieth century.” —Buzzfeed “This poignant novel recreates the war years and explores how a relationship can alter lives and history. Anyone interested in WWII history will savor this beautifully written love story that displays another side to Eisenhower and the war.” —RT Book Reviews “With keen eye for historical detail and strong narrative voice, MacManus has expertly and artfully painted an intimate, authentic portrait of love, duty, and sacrifice against the backdrop of the greatest events of the 20th century. Masterful!”—Pam Jenoff, New York Times–bestselling author of The Orphan’s Tale

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Romance, Historical, Book Club, World War II, Adult

321 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 8, 2018

About the author

James MacManus has worked in the newspaper business for 46 years. He is currently the Managing Director of the Times Literary Supplement.

He is the author of On the Broken Shore (The Language of the Sea, UK edition), and Ocean Devil: The Life and Legend of George Hogg which was made into a film starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers

His latest book, Black Venus, is a vivid novel of Charles Baudelaire and his lover Jeanne Duval, the Haitian cabaret singer who inspired his most famous and controversial poems, set in nineteenth-century Paris. Duckworth will publish the UK edition of Black Venus on February 27th 2014.The UK edition follows the successful launch of the novel in the US by Thomas Dunne books of New York.

Reviews

[Ingrid · Rating 3 out of 5]

2,5 stars and those are mainly for the research that must have gone into this book.
A lot of thoughts and actions are assumptions by the author.
In the end I didn't warm to either Ike or Kay.

[Magdalena · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought I would start this review by mentioning that I previously read THE GENERAL'S WOMEN by Susan Wittig Albert, which deals with the same subject as this book, although Mamie Eisenhowever plays a larger role in that book. Nevertheless, in my opinion, one can't get enough books if the subjects interest you. So it was with eagerness I looked forward to reading this book.

READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

There were always rumors about whether General Dwight Eisenhower had an affair with his driver Kay Summersby during WWII. This deftly written historical romance imagines their passionate connection, set against war-torn Europe as backdrop.

She had been an ambulance driver in London during the Blitz when conscripted to drive the General. Their relationship grew into affection. (He presented her with a box of chocolates, rarer than silk stockings during war-time deprivation.)

She ends up traveling with him — against military regulations — on far-away missions before the Nazis are defeated. Their relationship so concerned his wife Mamie that she questioned in letters the propriety of his “obsession with Ireland.”

He did little to hide his affair with Kay, known publicly as “Ike’s shadow,” and in fact threw his weight to get her American citizenship and US army rank, even bringing her to the US after the war. Only when officials learn of his decision to divorce Mamie do they they imperil the already precarious relationship. In the end, Kay is reassigned to California and the affair ends. Poignant, compelling and a must-read for lovers of the best historical fiction and romance.

Thanks to The Overlook Press and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are fully mine.

#IkeAndKay #NetGalley

[Book Concierge · Rating 3 out of 5]

In his work of historical fiction, MacManus explores the relationship between General Dwight D Eisenhower and his assigned driver during WWII, Kay Sommersby. Rumor, innuendo and gossip have surrounded their affair for decades. Only after both Dwight and his wife, Mamie, died did much of the truth come out.

I have to say that Ike came off like a real jerk in this book. Kay, of course, was hardly blameless. She knew he was a married man, and a powerful one as well. If she thought she could win this man she was deluding only herself. Nevertheless, it was interesting to see how the relationship unfolded and to get a glimpse of what they may have meant to one another, especially during the stress of wartime.

I also appreciated the details of other wartime relationships between generals and heads of state. President Franklin D Roosevelt, Prime Minister Winston Churchhill and many others make appearances in this novel. One glaring error very nearly spoiled it for me (and totally turned my husband off). MacManus goes on about Patton serving in the Pacific and how he abandoned the Philippines for the relative safety of Australia. The general who did that was MacArthur, not Patton. Wonder what else he got wrong?

Oh well, it’s historical FICTION, and it certainly held my attention.

[Cathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ike and Kay is a fictionalized account of the real life relationship between General Dwight Eisenhower and Kay Summersby.

Thanks to the author’s insightful portrayal, I could well understand how Kay, assigned to be his driver, might be attracted to the intelligent and charming Eisenhower (whom she refers to from early on as ‘her’ general). The reader witnesses the gradual development of their relationship from mutual regard to easy familiarity (smiles exchanged in the rear-view mirror) to something more, helped along by a box of chocolates, an unexpected invitation to dinner and a puppy. Soon Kay is part of Eisenhower’s wartime ‘family’, a small group of his closest aides, and rubbing shoulders with figures such as Roosevelt and Churchill.

The way their relationship was portrayed felt utterly realistic: the highs and lows, doubts and fears, promises made and broken, hopes raised and then dashed. I found myself rooting for Kay – more in hope than expectation – at the same time wishing she had taken more heed of her friend Charlotte’s wise if down to earth advice.

As depicted by the author, Eisenhower’s superiors initially tolerate the obvious growing closeness between the pair because of his vital role in directing the Allied offensive. ‘Keep the general happy’ becomes the watchword. Yet once the war is over the relationship becomes an embarrassment – not least of which because Eisenhower is a married man – something to be airbrushed (in one case, quite literally) from history.

The book also contains some fascinating detail about the preparations for the Allied invasion of Europe and some particularly poignant and moving descriptions of D-Day. Kay recalls the eve of D-Day as ‘a series of jumbled images’.

‘The sun setting in a paint box of colours that evening, broad brush strokes of red, orange and purple. Faces of the paratroops blackened with charcoal and cocoa. The ghostly features of Eisenhower moving among these men in darkness, shaking hands, accepting whispered messages to loved ones… Camouflaged troops, silky shadows in the darkness, their voices those of the night… Wingtips flashing white lights as the aircraft took off and climbed to join the armada above. The sparkle of distant stars in a crowded sky.’

Ike and Kay is both an intimate, affecting story of a wartime romance but also a fascinating insight into the burden borne by those in positions of power during wartime. 

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ike and Kay is a historical fiction novel based on the time that they spent together in Europe during WWII. The author did a tremendous amount of research to write this book and it's apparent despite the fact that there are some historical inaccuracies. (I read an arc so am assuming that these will be cleaned up before the publish date). There is still no definitive answer on whether Ike and Kay had a sexual relationship but MacManus writes the book as if they had - which seems to be the prevailing belief of the historians.

In 1942, Eisenhower, lands in London to decide how to best end the Nazi hold on Europe. All visiting generals needed a driver because all of the street signs had been taken down in London. Kay Summersby, a member of the Motor Transport Corp becomes General Eisenhower's driver and eventually ends up becoming his chief aide, in charge of his calendar and taking notes at meetings. The gossip begins in the US and Europe over what kind of relationship they really had even as they continue to spend more time together. The press begins to refer to Kay as "Ike's shadow". She sees a future for them when its time for him to return to the US after the Allied victory but he has to make big decisions about his future on whether she will be part of it.

Overall, I enjoyed this novel. I had read articles about Ike and Kay in the past, this book really humanizes them and you can understand why some of the decisions that were made happen. high praise to the author for his extensive research on this subject. If you enjoy WWII historical fiction, this is a book that you don't want to miss.

Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.

[Carol Jones-Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started reading this book last night, and as the affair and plot started to bloom, I'd not heard of it, so I talked to my husband who is several years older than I am, and asked him if he had any knowledge of it. He said he and his parents were very interested and thought Ike was the cat's Meow, and they also knew of the affair Kay and Ike. I was shocked at how much he knew and how true it was from the book to the example he got from his parents and their knowledge.

This novel is a great mix of historical fact and fiction and it sheds new light for me on WWII from the American perspective.

In many ways though, how much is biography and how much fiction doesn’t matter in such an engaging and well-written story. The amount of research and study is very impressive. I think
there is an excellent mix here between keeping to historical fact and imagining the feelings and conversation of both protagonists. I learned a lot about the war, and about Ike and Kay, but I also enjoyed it as a moving and compelling story.

It works equally well as a personal and a group read. There is plenty to discuss about the characters and the choices they make, but also the issue about balancing fact and fiction, especially when the main characters are real people in the not very distant past. Overall it is a good read, it holds up quite well until the end of the war, and until Ike goes home. Gets kinda pathetic after that. Recommend, it still is a good read.

[Shirley Revill · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was not too impressed with this audiobook and found it really hard to finish.
Really love historical fiction but just could not get into the story of Ike and Kay.

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly this is a story that is based on true events. It is the story of how Kay Summersby became driver to General Eisenhower while he was on a visit to London during WWII. A time when street signs were removed and London was in a black out, hence the need for drivers with knowledge of the area, the MTC (Motor Transport Corp) was in place and essential for the movement of visitors.

James has created a story that has a great balance for this reader, actual events with a romantic liaison. It becomes evident that there is something going on between Ike and Kay as she transports him not only around London, but further afield into Europe. She is a woman who is able to provide a stable environment that Eisenhower gradually starts to rely on. It is not based just during the war, but also continues in the years after. You get to see different sides to the man who goes on to become President. My opinion at the start of the book about these two people changed by the time I got the end. My heart went out to Kay as her role during the war and after changed, her role changed so much from the driver she originally started out as. Ike was in a position asking where loyalties lay, were they with Kay or to his country.

There are author notes at the end that are interesting reading, they explain how no one actually knows the extent of the relationship between Ike and Kay. The story that is told is one that has been researched and the author has used this research to then create a wonderful read of what may have happened. I had no idea about Kay and her role so I tootled off to do a bit of research of my own after I had finished reading. I found photographs and various articles that was great to be able to put an actual face to the lady behind the story.

This is a story I would definitely recommend to readers of historical fiction, romantic fiction based during WWII, it is a mix of emotion and heartbreak as the characters come to terms with their feelings and how they are seen by others with documented facts . As this lady was someone I knew nothing about it was interesting to read on further about her, and I am grateful for being introduced to Kay.

[Trevor · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a well written and enjoyable novel, though not as engaging as his previous novel Sleep in Peace Tonight, which is also set during WWII and has a similar set up - a young women's relationship with a leading WWII figure.

This novel is the fictionalised account of the actual relationship between Kay Summersby and Dwight Eisenhower (head of the Allied forces in Europe). An enormous amount of research has obviously been done, as all the historic facts ring true, however I was never really engaged with Kay, and in particular the inner monologues that she had on occasions.

An enjoyable book, but a bit of a missed opportunity.

[Sarah · Rating 1 out of 5]

I liked "The General's Women" a lot more than this version of the same story. I've been waiting for a long time to get it from my library and I was disappointed. The characters were flat; Eisenhower wasn't likable and Kay came across as extremely naive. Both seemed shallow and selfish.

I also thought the editing was subpar (typos, incorrect punctuation, etc., in several places), and it seemed like the breed of dog changed throughout the book.

At this point I think I'm annoyed that I had such high hopes for this book and am feeling let down. I adore historical fiction but this one was not for me.

[Judie Kelloff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very realistic
story, even if denied by Eisenhower boosters. Loved seeing the history of WWII from Ike’s perspective. Kay’s actions were melodramatic, but still credible.

[Andie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dwight Eisenhower had an affair with his military driver, Kay Summerby, all during World War II, and according to some,, planned to divorcer his wife and marry her after the war was over. This plan was foiled by the military officialdom and Kay was left to basically fend for herself.

This book portrays Ike as an emotionally cold man &{ it’s hard to feel sympathy for him – especially in the cold way he ended things with Kay… As with so many novels of historical fiction, this one makes me want to head to the non-fiction section of the library and find out what really happened.

[Sandi G. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although Eisenhower is the first American president I can remember in my lifetime, I’ve never really thought much about him. I knew he was a general during WWII, but failed to understand that he was the Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces, or in other words, the “grand poopah” of the whole European shibang. That was a heavy burden to take on, and this book demonstrates how well, and sometimes how not well he did at the job. The book certainly paints a clear picture of how difficult and stressful it was being the leader of the Allied Forces. His alleged 3 year romance with his driver/ personal assistant had also escaped my attention, although I d heard plenty about the dalliances of other presidents, notably Roosevelt, Kennedy, and Clinton. This book introduced me to a lot of military history of the time which I found extremely interesting. The author makes Kay Summersby out as an ethical, sympathetic character and likable woman. However, I couldn’t help rolling my eyes a bit when she was so shocked that Eisenhower returned to his wife Mamie after the war, particularly since it mentioned she’d had affairs with other married men before. Summersby wrote an autobiography about her role in Eisenhower’s staff in 1948, and then a full expose’ in 1975 after his death, chronicling their love affair. How much of this book is true? Hard to say. A lot of their relationship can only be assumed based on gossip and photos showing how much time they spent together. Regardless, it’s true that her obviously important contribution to the war effort has been largely erased by history, and her role is only remembered because she was a young, attractive woman attached to the man with the most power. Perhaps someday we will remember women for their accomplishments.

[Mercedes Rochelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an American who was born in the 1950s, I’m embarrassed to say I know little about my own country at that time. So I picked up “Ike and Kay” with interest, curious about the pre-presidential Eisenhower. Our protagonist Kay starts out as Eisenhower’s driver in war-torn Europe, but soon becomes an indispensable part of his staff. Rumors quickly spread about their relationship since they are never found apart, but it takes a long time for appearances to become reality. In the forties, an affair with a married man must have been much more of a scandal than today. It’s an interesting conundrum. Ike is under a lot of pressure and Kay provides him with some sanity; it seems that most everyone surrounding them—including Roosevelt and Churchill—accept the situation without undue judgment. That is, as long as the war is on. In my eyes, Kay finds herself in a situation that most people experience at least once in their life: loving another while at the same time knowing this is not going to end well. And like many, she fools herself into thinking that love conquers all. This is a bittersweet story that I found quite enjoyable. I received a free copy from the author’s Publicist for my honest review.

[Talya Boerner · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kay Summersby, a military driver during war-torn London, is conscripted to drive General Dwight Eisenhower on a fact-finding mission. After her first driving assignment, the general begins to request her on return trips to Europe. She is professional, detailed-oriented, and makes his job easier.

They take a liking to one another possibly out of mutual respect. During the following years, she becomes his confidant. He promotes her to secretary, and then, his personal aide. Kay frequently travels with Eisenhower on foreign missions and is typically present during high-level meetings. Newspapers both at home and abroad hint at their inappropriate relationship. (Eisenhower is married to Mamie, of course.) The military brass surrounding Eisenhower seems to adopt a “whatever it takes to keep Eisenhower happy” attitude. After all, he is supreme commander of the Allied forces.

Were Ike and Kay romantically involved or not? I’m not sure at this point we will ever really know. Some sources insist Kay was nothing more than a highly valued staff member. Others insist Kay and Ike were lovers, and that Eisenhower considered divorcing Mamie. (He did help Kay obtain American citizenship and a position in the U.S. military.)

In this book written by James MacManus, the affair is presented as real. Ike and Kay spans from their first meeting until several years after the final assault on Nazi Germany. For the most part, I found Kay to be a strong character, in no way innocent of her behavior—she knew Ike was a married man. Ike was portrayed as the dry, detached soldier I’ve always imagined him to be. Overall, the story held my attention and provided insight into the burdens borne by those tasked with great responsibility during wartime.

This book collapsed for me at the end. A few of Kay’s final actions and reactions felt completely out of sync with her personality. I would have ended the story a few chapters earlier, leaving the reader with a more resolute Kay.

Favorite Quote: A woman in love will believe anything.

[Amy Winters · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 is more accurate for me. I will be the first to admit that I lack historical knowledge so I find myself gravitating toward historical fiction all the time. I had no idea what this book was about other than the back cover. I didn’t even pick up the fact that IKE stood for President Eisenhower.

I am having a hard time rating it because I couldn’t put it down but I also wanted more?! If that makes sense. There was a TON of research done to write this book and what I loved was it didn’t read like a history book. I learned a lot that I didn’t remember covering in school and from other WWll books. I found the story fascinating but needed something more. Perhaps more of an emotional attachment to the characters? Either way....I’m glad I read it.

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this e-book (via NetGalley) and its publisher, Duckworth, in exchange for an honest review.

This is fiction based on fact. It is a story during WWII with Dwight Eisenhower, “Ike”, and his driver, Kay Summersby, who develop a close relationship. Ike includes Kay when he is relocated throughout the war. He also makes promises of citizenship and promotions. Many WWII big names (such as Roosevelt, Patton, MacArthur, Bradley, Montgomery) are dropped in the story displaying the research conducted. It is an interesting story especially if a reader is not familiar with these two individuals. As with every love story, there is heartbreak.

I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a love story with historical fiction.

[Donna McCaul Thibodeau · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was looking forward to reading this because World War II is my favorite genre. Unfortunately, I ended up disappointed. The book was well written and meticulously researched. However, I never felt like I got to know Ike or Kay and because of that, their characters came across as flat and one dimensional.

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book fascinating not only for the detailed account of Eisenhower’s hand in defeating Germany, but also for enlightenment involving his personal life and how he handled the stress of that terrible time. I felt sorry for Kay because he clearly used her to cope. She tried to end it, but he literally refused to let her, telling her what she desperately wanted to hear. The narration added to my enjoyment of this book. Happy reading and listening!

[Kimberly (kimmerthebooknerd) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great read. I love history, historical fiction and this hit the spot. Based on real life figures and a rumor of a love affair, I could not put this one down! I actually googled Kay Summersby after I finished... the description in the book fit her exactly.
I was a little upset with Ike.. I won't spoil it, but in reality we all know how it turns out.
Thank you James MacManus, NetGalley and to the publisher for the opportunity to read this story of love, war, sadness and life!

[Sharon Banitt · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story of Ike's driver, Kay Summersby, who became his secretary and personal assistant during the war. An affair happened but she was thrown aside when the war was over as it would have hurt his political life.

[The History Mom]

Historical fiction about a supposed affair between Dwight Eisenhower and his female driver during WWII. Great historical details but as a Mamie fan, I didn't like the story. Based on mostly rumors, it probably didn't happen in real life but made for an interesting book.

[Eleni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historically
Historical fiction blended with romance. In addition to his writing flair, Macmanus provides the reader insight into the challenges of war faced by those at the top-army generals. I liked the way the big players of WWII were presented with all their flaws and genius.

[Yvonne Garside · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is obvious that MacManus devoted many hours of research prior to writing. He included numerous facts about General Eisenhower that I was unaware of. There is no getting around the fact that this book is a poignant love story. I have to wonder what Eisenhower's influence, impact, and position would have been during WWII if Kay had not been in his life during that time.

[CA Portnellus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ike & Kay by James MacManus is a historical novel using what the author researched and then set into a split biographical novel (about Kay Summersby and Dwight D. Eisenhower). Overall, it was an interesting subject, since I never knew Ike had an affair with his driver during the war. That was a bit shocking, but the author downplayed much of the relationship, perhaps not to offend anyone or that maybe it is not important to be so scandalous about a beloved war hero and ex-President. Then again, maybe the book was not intended to be a rip-snorter, tell-all about an illicit affair. Just a bit of history, the sideways stories that we don't always hear or were rumors.
For most of the novel, the narration is a bit eye in the sky, the over-arching telling of the progression of the war and Ike's campaigns, including his rise to fame. The parts that were to be personal story-telling were a bit thin, not as emotional or involved as I would have liked. But then again, this was not a sensationalized novel, and since the affair was a sort of secret, no one but Ike and Kay knew what went on behind the public eye or in the bedroom.
What was sad, was that even though Kay Summersby was a revered and highly prized member of Ike's personal staff (mostly for her work), she was not publicly liked, only villanized. What small minds, improper ideas, and lewd comments did for her was to make Kay subject to ridicule and lessened her value as a woman working in the war theater of operations. Even though she was often on the backlines of the war with Ike, she knew, understood and heard it all, about how grave the war in Europe was, and how the Allies were fairing. She could have easily been a spy but was honorable to her country of England, and to the work of the Allies.

It was startling to discover how volatile Eisenhower was; fiery anger, a chain-smoker, and a bit of a callous attitude when it came to Kay, and his personal life. Yet he was a proud, intelligent man, a diplomat needing to work with the various personalities that were part of the war-effort for peace in Europe. Churchill, Montgomery, the top generals of the various Allies were all important players in this book for Ike but were downplayed some. Especially with Ike's dislike and growing animosity toward Gen. Montgomery. He believed the man cost them thousands of lives and put them further from the end of the war.

The author did a good job piecing the historical bits together, staying somewhat true to the era in language, slang, and the ideals of the time. The language was easy to read, not overly scholarly or dull like in a history book. MacManus can tell the war stories just fine.

I would have liked a bit more color to the relationship, especially if this was to be a romantic-based novel. It is true that when people are pushed together, working on a common goal twenty-four hours a day, there will arise either great dislike or love may spring from the friendship and camaraderie. Ike and Kay were an item, you could feel their mutual attraction throughout the book. It just took a while for the relationship to deepen, for the pair to throw caution to the wind and give in to the lust of the moment for each other. Like in the old mottos that deaths, funerals, and weddings spark sex and love. The near-death experiences or high stress can cause people to fall together even for the briefest of times. It was for Kay, though that she fell deeply in love with her Boss.
Sad, to say, the relationship with Ike did not last, nor did most of his promises come to fruition where they as a couple was concerned. Ike did as he promised in giving Kay, a leg up to better jobs, once the war was over. But this was not what Kay ultimately wanted. She wanted a life with Ike.
There were a few times where the back and forth of passing times was confusing, especially when it was the narrative-historical running through the body of the book, then of a sudden, we were inside Ike or Kay's mind pushing into the present. The author did this a few times, going backward, then in time. It should have been kept more chronological for the entire book. Still, it was a good read.
There were only a few comments of typos or such that I had. Most of the book was well edited.
I always enjoy reading new works by authors I am not familiar with and then following or reading the author's other works. Each book is unique, and for this one, since it was historically based on a scandalous subject, MacManus did well. I shall look forward to other books in the future from this author.

[Marion Marchetto · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a fan of World War II historical fiction. Learning about the private side of a celebrated figure is very enticing especially when a bit of romance is thrown in. Let me be clear, I am not a serious student of warfare so I accept much of what I read as truth based on the assumption that the author has done his or her research. Having been born under the Truman Administration I have vague recollections of Dwight Eisenhower as president. That said, I dove into this book with an open mind. I was not disappointed.

The story centers on a young woman Transport Driver by the name of Kay Summersby. After driving an ambulance during the Blitz in London she is assigned to be the driver for an up-and-coming 2-star general by the name of Dwight Eisenhower, whom she refers to as 'the boss'. Through her skills as a driver and her knowledge of London she soon becomes an indispensable part of Eisenhower's "war family" - a small team who work closely with 'the boss'. Over several months Ike comes to depend on Kay almost to the point of seeing her as a surrogate wife as well as a team member. It is she who senses when he needs a break; it is she who pours him his nightly whiskey; and it is she who listens as he talks out his frustrations over war strategy and dealing with other Allies. During the working hours she is his faithful companion, driving, waiting, always at the general's beck and call. Being a public figure of the time, Ike is photographed profusely by British and American journalists alike; and it seems that in each picture there is Kay - doing nothing more than her job. The Brits think nothing of her presence and assume that Kay and Ike are having an affair; the consensus is that most generals have a mistress so why not Ike? Back in America it soon comes to Mamie Eisenhower's attention that her husband may be involved with his driver. Speculation is rampant among Washington's inner circle.

While Ike and Kay grow ever closer as the warfare increases, they do indeed find comfort in being alone together. Do they carry on a full blown affair? The answer to that is questionable. While Kay falls in love with her charming boss, Ike doesn't quite see it the same way. He is smitten with the woman who looks after him, that's for sure. He watches out for her in as many ways as possible, i.e., having her promoted, etc. But when the war comes to its end and Ike is called back to Washington he severs ties with the woman who thought she had captured his heart. Even though he has arranged for her to come to America and work as a WAC, she is assigned to California - as far away as possible from the man she loves. Nursing a broken heart, she resigns from the service and moves back to New York City. It takes her a long time to get over Ike even as she eventually accepts another man's proposal.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. And let's not forget that this is a fictional account based on historical facts. The question remains unanswered - did Ike have a wartime affair with Kay Summersby? There are two camps - both pro and con - that are still at odds to this day. I say let the reader make their own decision. This story is one author's interpretation of such events.

I found Ike and Kay to be well written and steady paced. Even after putting down my Kindle, the story called to me to turn another page. When this happens I know I've found a good book. There will be many who argue about the discrepancy of historical dates and facts but I wasn't there so I must rely on the interpretation found in the story. Swirling controversy will only serve the author well in this case.

Note: I received a complimentary copy from the author's publicist.

[Adele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ike and Kay is my first introduction to the work of James MacManus and I was drawn to this novel as I am fascinated with stories set around the world wars, I love to read about how the wars impacted on people's lives. Ike and Kay is a slightly different wartime novel I have previously read, this is a story based around the lives of the personnel directly involved in the war. Ike and Kay is a fictional story based loosely on facts regarding the life of General 'Ike' Eisenhower and that of his driver Kay Summersby.
The story starts in 1942 when Kay Summersby is assigned to be the driver of General 'Ike' Eisenhower during his first military visit to London. Kay is a people person and soon learns what Ike needs to stay focused with his job and what he also needs to wind down after many difficult days. Kay has achieved what many of his trusted staff haven't, she's got into his head and found in Ike a man that on the surface is a sort of an enigma but she picks out little things in Ike's mannerisms and loves and expands on these making small comforts in a life that would face many difficulties with the war that continued for many years. Kay and Ike's relationship was to become like a well-oiled cog in a wheel and Kay was forever by his side travelling with him to many different war zones around the globe.
Ike Eisenhower was travelling up the ranks of the US Army rapidly with his involvement with the war efforts. His wife of over 20 years was left at home in the US and only had his letters, an occasional short stay visit and the gossip columns in the State press to keep her up-to-date with Ike's progress. The continuing presence of the female driver, Kay Summersby, was to cause much speculation in the press and both women in Ike's life were to become anxious for their future with Ike. But did anyone truly know Ike Eisenhower? There were many sides to Eisenhower and neither his wife or Kay could truly know the real Ike.
Ike Eisenhower soon felt at home in London with Kay foreseeing to his comforts both at work and during time at rest. Ike soon became to rely on Kay and it felt like an obsession with him, like he felt he couldn't perform his duties without her by his side. Ike's friendship with his driver soon became a cause for concern for the military on both the British and American sides.
I was captivated by this story, a story predominantly about an unlikely friendship between two people who had found comfort during very difficult times. There was a poignancy and tragedy about the love that blossomed, at times it felt like they were living in their own bubble but once the war was over and a different reality set in their lives were no longer in their control and paths they'd dreamed about were blocked. I also found the novel interesting to learn about the tactical side of the war efforts. I appreciated the great research the author undertook with this novel, I didn't know much about Eisenhower and following reading this story I am keen to learn more about him.

[Kristen · Rating 3 out of 5]

James MacManus’ “Ike and Kay” tells the fictionalized story of Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower and his Irish driver-turned-lover, Kay Summersby, following the relationship from late 1942, when Eisenhower arrived in London, to post-war America.

Readers who enjoy stories told through the perspective of a strong female heroine will like this book, since it unfolds entirely through Kay’s perspective. But at times, it tilts into romance-novel territory, with the star-struck, but independent, Kay carried along by the events surrounding her hero.

Despite making Kay the book’s focus, MacManus never fully develops her character. Although he provides some back story – marriages, family ties – the reader never gets a sense of what drives Kay’s actions. Although she admires Eisenhower, she never expresses any passion for him, beyond appreciating the way he includes her in his inner circle. When he secures her commission in the American Women’s Army Corps – and then her American citizenship – both come as a surprise, since she never expresses any desire for these things to happen almost until they are upon her. What prompted those decisions?

Her actions toward the end of the book go unexplored, too. How did Kay go from an independent, wordly woman at the beginning of the war to someone who travels around the world for pointless confrontations with a former lover? While MacMannus may have been reporting what actually happened, more character development would have helped.

Eisenhower is even more of a ghost. While we learn that he was genial, stressed, and hard-working, he comes off as so emotionally remote, it’s hard to understand why Kay would have been attracted to him. Apart from one or two incidents where he demonstrates his caring for Kay and his troops, he moves through the novel completely shut off and unchanged.

The book also has some big factual and continuity errors. For instance, there’s a reference to Ike being “married with two grown-up sons,” even though the book discusses the death of Ike’s older son as a toddler in 1921. It also overlooks the fact that Eisenhower’s surviving son, John, served for a time as an aide to his father in Europe after D-Day, when he presumably would have crossed paths with Kay.

Other little errors slipped through, too. At one point, it mentions that Ike “had not done brilliantly at college or at the West Point Military Academy.” In fact, West Point was Eisenhower’s college, and it is called the U.S. Military Academy.

(I’m hoping that these reflect the fact that I read a review copy thanks to Netgalley, rather than the final published version.)

Setting all this aside, though, “Ike and Kay” is an engaging, easy book. Between MacManus’ light touch with dialogue and the dynamic situation in wartime London, the story moves along at a rapid clip. It makes an enjoyable summer read.

[Schuyler Wallace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book tore at me more than most because of my admiration for General Dwight D. Eisenhower. James MacManus, in his carefully researched historical novel, “Ike and Kay,” takes the reader into the seamier aspects of Eisenhower and Kay Summersby’s infamous love affair during World War Two. Long rumored and never fully denied, their romance sullied Ike’s career both during his brilliant management of Allied forces during the war and his political career after he retired.

Summersby was on Eisenhower’s team, first as a driver then as a personal aide until he returned to the United States after the war was over. Summersby travelled with Eisenhower on missions all over the war theatre, becoming “Ike’s Shadow” to those who noted such things. He got her enlisted in the Army despite her not being a US citizen. He used his influence to get that citizenship, subsequent higher rank, and close contact with all the major players in the Allied war effort. And, she was always there in the photographs, smiling brightly for worldwide news coverage.

When the war was over Eisenhower returned to the US and left Summersby behind in Berlin, crushed and angry over being discarded. He had repeatedly told her of plans to divorce his wife, Mamie, but those promises were broken. The book is an in-depth account of their relationship and the elements that destroyed it. There is also a bit of vengeance in Summersby’s attempts to rekindle the romance after she also came to America.

It was upsetting for me to know of the more intimate details of their love affair. It was hard to read of the more physical aspects of their union, because Ike was a childhood shining beacon to me. His shining pate and emoticon grin are etched in my memory and the thoughts of their groping and rutting are outside my comfort zone. That being said, this book is carefully researched, very well written, and extremely captivating.

It’s hard to dislodge an icon. I don’t believe MacManus had that in mind. But his account is certainly upsetting because of the earthiness and callousness of both parties. Eisenhower can be faulted for his weakness and duplicitousness. Summersby is equally at fault for her own failings and extreme gullibility. My heart goes out to Mamie, the helpless and grievous victim of all the tomfoolery.

This is a great book that recounts much of the European campaign in clear prose. The historical moments have not been better portrayed in a short treatise. The affair is of small consequence except to the major players and to those like me who like their heroes untarnished.