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The Royal Windsor Secret
Cleo Davenport has heard the whispers: the murmured conversations that end abruptly the second she walks into a room. Told she was an orphan, she knows the rumor—that her father is none other than the Prince of Wales, heir to the British throne. And at her childhood home at Cairo’s Shepheard’s Hotel, where royals, rulers, and the wealthy live, they even called her “The Princess.”
But her life is turned upside down when she turns seventeen. Sent to London under the chaperonage of her very proper aunt, she’s told it’s time to learn manners and make her debut. But Cleo’s life can’t be confined to a ballroom. She longs for independence and a career as a jewelry designer for Cartier, but she cannot move forward until she finds out about her past.
Determined to unlock the truth, Cleo travels from London, back to Cairo, and then France, where her investigations take a shocking turn into the world of the Parisian demi-monde, and a high-class courtesan whose scandalous affair with the young Prince of Wales threatened to bring down the British monarchy long before anyone had heard of Wallis Simpson.
But her life is turned upside down when she turns seventeen. Sent to London under the chaperonage of her very proper aunt, she’s told it’s time to learn manners and make her debut. But Cleo’s life can’t be confined to a ballroom. She longs for independence and a career as a jewelry designer for Cartier, but she cannot move forward until she finds out about her past.
Determined to unlock the truth, Cleo travels from London, back to Cairo, and then France, where her investigations take a shocking turn into the world of the Parisian demi-monde, and a high-class courtesan whose scandalous affair with the young Prince of Wales threatened to bring down the British monarchy long before anyone had heard of Wallis Simpson.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2023
238 people are currently reading
10463 people want to read
About the author
Christine Wells
9 books600 followersChristine Wells is a former corporate lawyer who exchanged contracts and prospectuses for a different kind of fiction.
Undergoing life-saving brain surgery as a 2 year old made her want to be a brain surgeon when she grew up. However, a love of the humanities, particularly English history and literature, not to mention the fact she wasn’t great with blood, made her revise that plan.
Christine had always been interested in the law and after winning a half-scholarship to Bond University in a high school moot competition, she decided to follow in her father’s footsteps and become a solicitor. Having completed her Bachelor’s degree, Christine worked for city law firms advising on capital raising and mergers and acquisitions.
While still working as a lawyer, she started her first novel, a historical murder mystery which is now (thankfully) lost in the bowels of a defunct hard drive. Eventually, Christine set her sights on publication in the United States, where it seemed British-set historical romance was highly popular. A keen devotee of Georgette Heyer novels, Christine decided to give these a try.
Ten years later, she is an award-winning author with ten novels published by major New York publishers, St. Martin’s Press and Penguin. These novels have been translated (variously) into German, Japanese, Dutch, Spanish, Russian and Portuguese.
Now, a change in direction sees Christine combining her abiding interest in the law and her passion for English history in one novel, THE WIFE’S TALE.
Christine lives with her husband (also a lawyer) and two sons in Brisbane, Australia.
Undergoing life-saving brain surgery as a 2 year old made her want to be a brain surgeon when she grew up. However, a love of the humanities, particularly English history and literature, not to mention the fact she wasn’t great with blood, made her revise that plan.
Christine had always been interested in the law and after winning a half-scholarship to Bond University in a high school moot competition, she decided to follow in her father’s footsteps and become a solicitor. Having completed her Bachelor’s degree, Christine worked for city law firms advising on capital raising and mergers and acquisitions.
While still working as a lawyer, she started her first novel, a historical murder mystery which is now (thankfully) lost in the bowels of a defunct hard drive. Eventually, Christine set her sights on publication in the United States, where it seemed British-set historical romance was highly popular. A keen devotee of Georgette Heyer novels, Christine decided to give these a try.
Ten years later, she is an award-winning author with ten novels published by major New York publishers, St. Martin’s Press and Penguin. These novels have been translated (variously) into German, Japanese, Dutch, Spanish, Russian and Portuguese.
Now, a change in direction sees Christine combining her abiding interest in the law and her passion for English history in one novel, THE WIFE’S TALE.
Christine lives with her husband (also a lawyer) and two sons in Brisbane, Australia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
July 24, 2023
Egypt 1935. The story begins with sixteen-year-old Cleo Davenport being told that she needs to move to London. She was raised by her adoptive mother, and her life is absorbed by finding out about her parentage.
In London, she has a chance to meet the Prince of Wales, now crowned as Edward VIII, as a debutante. In Paris, she is able to talk to a courtesan who tells her a story of meeting Prince of Wales during WWI and the consequences when she gets pregnant.
The story for most of the part is absorbed by personal matters. Thus, the plot is not the strong part of this story, which also has a slow progression.
Towards the end, there are some dimensions to the character. She has an ambition of designing jewelry but WWII changes her plans. She wants to be useful during the war, so she finds some duties. Despite this, I didn’t feel a strong connection with the main character.
It is an interesting premise of the known courtesan to be claiming to have a child with Prince of Wales and her creating a story what happened to that child. The parts of the story where there is some revealing presented are the most engaging.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
In London, she has a chance to meet the Prince of Wales, now crowned as Edward VIII, as a debutante. In Paris, she is able to talk to a courtesan who tells her a story of meeting Prince of Wales during WWI and the consequences when she gets pregnant.
The story for most of the part is absorbed by personal matters. Thus, the plot is not the strong part of this story, which also has a slow progression.
Towards the end, there are some dimensions to the character. She has an ambition of designing jewelry but WWII changes her plans. She wants to be useful during the war, so she finds some duties. Despite this, I didn’t feel a strong connection with the main character.
It is an interesting premise of the known courtesan to be claiming to have a child with Prince of Wales and her creating a story what happened to that child. The parts of the story where there is some revealing presented are the most engaging.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2023
Cleo Davenport grew up at the Shepheard’s Hotel in Cairo, Egypt, she’s been looked after by her guardian Serafina, she’s heard rumours her father is the Prince of Wales and people refer to her as “The Princess.” Cleo and her friend Brodie, have a great time riding horses in the desert and visiting the zoo and have no idea what the future holds for them.
An opportunity presents itself a year later for the orphans to travel to England with Lord and Lady Grayson. The journey by sea gives them time to learn their manners, brush up on their social skills and make sure they use the right cutlery. Both Serafina and her sister Lady Grayson think Cleo needs to make her debut, her clothes has aren’t up to scratch, once she arrives in London and Lady Grayson takes her to Paris to get a whole new wardrobe.
Cleo visits the Cartier showroom while in the city of lights, she dreams of designing jewellery and working for the master. Cleo want's to solve the mystery surrounding her parentage, she has some information, and she contacts the woman she thinks is her mother and she has a very checkered past!
Cleo travels back to London, she can't just walk up to the Prince of Wales and ask him if he's her father, when he's crowned the King of England, he marries divorcee Wallis Simpson, he has no choice but to abdicate and his new royal title is the Duke of Windsor.
Chloe goes back to Paris, when the German's invade Poland it becomes too dangerous for her to stay, she returns to London, Chloe joins the FANY’s and she’s sent to Lisbon. Here, Chloe hears talk about the Duke of Windsor and Wallis Simpson being on the Germans side and he's the new British Governor of the Bahamas. Chloe worries about Brodie who's joined Scots Guards, she feels very confused about her feelings for her childhood best friend and why is her life always so complicated?
I received a digital copy of The Royal Windsor Secret by Christine Wells from HarperCollins Publishers Australia and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Using the well known theory the Prince of Wales had a relationship with a high class French courtesan during The Great War and she's one of the many women before Wallis Simpson and who knows what skeletons he possibly had hidden away in his closest?
The reader is taken on a historical fiction journey and one that you won’t forget in Ms. Well’s latest engrossing and well written narrative. It’s full of interesting details about Cairo, London, Paris and Lisbon and the iconic Shepheard's Hotel and it's famous guests, the intricacies of jewellery design and how it’s made. A story brimming with intrigue, secrets, greed, lies, schemes and I'm not sure who I disliked more Wallis Simpson or French courtesan Marguerite Miller and five stars from me.
An opportunity presents itself a year later for the orphans to travel to England with Lord and Lady Grayson. The journey by sea gives them time to learn their manners, brush up on their social skills and make sure they use the right cutlery. Both Serafina and her sister Lady Grayson think Cleo needs to make her debut, her clothes has aren’t up to scratch, once she arrives in London and Lady Grayson takes her to Paris to get a whole new wardrobe.
Cleo visits the Cartier showroom while in the city of lights, she dreams of designing jewellery and working for the master. Cleo want's to solve the mystery surrounding her parentage, she has some information, and she contacts the woman she thinks is her mother and she has a very checkered past!
Cleo travels back to London, she can't just walk up to the Prince of Wales and ask him if he's her father, when he's crowned the King of England, he marries divorcee Wallis Simpson, he has no choice but to abdicate and his new royal title is the Duke of Windsor.
Chloe goes back to Paris, when the German's invade Poland it becomes too dangerous for her to stay, she returns to London, Chloe joins the FANY’s and she’s sent to Lisbon. Here, Chloe hears talk about the Duke of Windsor and Wallis Simpson being on the Germans side and he's the new British Governor of the Bahamas. Chloe worries about Brodie who's joined Scots Guards, she feels very confused about her feelings for her childhood best friend and why is her life always so complicated?
I received a digital copy of The Royal Windsor Secret by Christine Wells from HarperCollins Publishers Australia and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Using the well known theory the Prince of Wales had a relationship with a high class French courtesan during The Great War and she's one of the many women before Wallis Simpson and who knows what skeletons he possibly had hidden away in his closest?
The reader is taken on a historical fiction journey and one that you won’t forget in Ms. Well’s latest engrossing and well written narrative. It’s full of interesting details about Cairo, London, Paris and Lisbon and the iconic Shepheard's Hotel and it's famous guests, the intricacies of jewellery design and how it’s made. A story brimming with intrigue, secrets, greed, lies, schemes and I'm not sure who I disliked more Wallis Simpson or French courtesan Marguerite Miller and five stars from me.
September 5, 2023
I absolutely adored this book, I savoured every word as Christine Wells took me back in time through many years with secrets, wars, beautiful jewellery and some very famous people. MS Wells has taken some facts and turned them into a must read story, it has twists and turns and wonderful characters.
Cleo Davenport is an orphan and has been living at the Shepheard’s Hotel in Cairo with her honorary Aunt Serafina and has heard many whispers over the years that she is the daughter of The Prince of Wales and Cleo is determined to uncover the truth one day, for the moment at sixteen she is living a fabulous life with her best friend Brodie and dreaming of becoming a jewellery designer one day.
At seventeen her life is turned upside down when she is whisked away to London by her aunt and uncle, Lord and Lady Grayson to make her come out, first stop Paris to shop for clothes but Cleo also makes a visit to Cariter, thinking about her future, she still has plans to find out the truth about her parents, and nothing is going to stop her, even after meeting up with demimonde Marguerite, things are changing in the Royal Family with The Prince of Wales abdicating to marry Wallis Simpson, will this make Cleo’s hunt harder?
This is a compelling, vivid and brilliant story that took me to Cairo, Paris Lisbon and London as Cleo searches for the truth, and along the way we meet so many interesting characters as Cleo learns so much about jewellery design and discovers more about the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. Cleo has many friends in this story including Brodie her best friend can they ever be more than friends?
I loved this one so much and highly recommend it, it is so well written and will pull any reader in who loves historical fiction, with romance and spectacular locations not to mention plots and schemes to get to the bottom of, don’t miss this one, thank you Christine Wells for another keeper, it is awesome. The ending is perfect.
My thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
Cleo Davenport is an orphan and has been living at the Shepheard’s Hotel in Cairo with her honorary Aunt Serafina and has heard many whispers over the years that she is the daughter of The Prince of Wales and Cleo is determined to uncover the truth one day, for the moment at sixteen she is living a fabulous life with her best friend Brodie and dreaming of becoming a jewellery designer one day.
At seventeen her life is turned upside down when she is whisked away to London by her aunt and uncle, Lord and Lady Grayson to make her come out, first stop Paris to shop for clothes but Cleo also makes a visit to Cariter, thinking about her future, she still has plans to find out the truth about her parents, and nothing is going to stop her, even after meeting up with demimonde Marguerite, things are changing in the Royal Family with The Prince of Wales abdicating to marry Wallis Simpson, will this make Cleo’s hunt harder?
This is a compelling, vivid and brilliant story that took me to Cairo, Paris Lisbon and London as Cleo searches for the truth, and along the way we meet so many interesting characters as Cleo learns so much about jewellery design and discovers more about the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. Cleo has many friends in this story including Brodie her best friend can they ever be more than friends?
I loved this one so much and highly recommend it, it is so well written and will pull any reader in who loves historical fiction, with romance and spectacular locations not to mention plots and schemes to get to the bottom of, don’t miss this one, thank you Christine Wells for another keeper, it is awesome. The ending is perfect.
My thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
February 26, 2024
Perhaps its time to reveal my remarkable person of the year ~ It's Queen Elizabeth II. I never new much about her or the royals, despite having lived through some of it. But I loved the first five seasons of the Crown, and she keeps popping up on my TBR. I thought to maybe knock her off (the books that is) this year, and then see Season Six to wrap it up. But it doesn't begin with her. This book pairs with the Woman Before Wallis, and the abdication of King Edward, which gave the throne to Bertie, Elizabeth's father. Its great that it worked out to read this one first, because the character of Marguerite Meller, the woman, is a central presence in this fictional ditty. I really enjoyed this read, it was fun, and it gave me just the taste I needed to start this journey.
April 14, 2023
Christine Wells captivates in her latest novel, taking us back to a tumultuous time in history, and adding more than a dash of sparkle. The Royal Windsor Secret is a delicious and scandalous read, with a twist that you won’t see coming!
September 25, 2023
The Royal Windsor Secret is another great addition to Christine’s growing list of historical fiction titles. Two timelines, set between 1935 and 1952, follow the early life of Marguerite and her possible daughter Cleo. The main thread of the book aims to discover who exactly Cleo’s parents are.
‘….why did she still feel like there was a deep fissure inside her, one that could only be filled with the love of her real parents?’
Cleo was abandoned on the steps of a luxury hotel in Cairo and grew up with the rumor that her mother had an affair with the Duke of Windsor. With a story sweeping from Egypt, Portugal, France, and British Isles, Cleo pursues all means possible to uncover who her biological parents were. Wrapped around this are a variety of characters and accompanying storylines ranging from WWII, the Duke’s abdication, the role of women and Cleo’s passion for making jewelry.
‘…sooner or later, everyone who was anyone - from Mark Twain and Noël Coward to royalty of every nation - came to tea on the terrace at Shepheard’s.’
Christine states that she was inspired by events such as the luxurious Shepheard’s Hotel in Cairo and also the drama surrounding Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson with a particular focus on their time in Portugal during the Second World War. There is also a focus on French courtesan Marguerite Meller and this is one plot line to which I felt was more deserving of more time. Finally, there was a strong focus on high end jewelry and some of Cartier history. Then, finally, a small reference to some military units from WWII. With lots of characters and many plot lines there was no one angle that grabbed me fully. This felt like a lighter version of historical fiction with some interesting inclusions of interest but too many to have one particular appeal.
“I don’t know about all that, but if you ask me, the fellow doesn’t seem to want to be King.”
Whilst the main focus of the novel is Cloe's quest for identity, Christine takes a range of threads and possible scenarios to form an interesting story that covers both intriguing topics and locations. Historical fiction lovers are sure to find something to capture their attention.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘….why did she still feel like there was a deep fissure inside her, one that could only be filled with the love of her real parents?’
Cleo was abandoned on the steps of a luxury hotel in Cairo and grew up with the rumor that her mother had an affair with the Duke of Windsor. With a story sweeping from Egypt, Portugal, France, and British Isles, Cleo pursues all means possible to uncover who her biological parents were. Wrapped around this are a variety of characters and accompanying storylines ranging from WWII, the Duke’s abdication, the role of women and Cleo’s passion for making jewelry.
‘…sooner or later, everyone who was anyone - from Mark Twain and Noël Coward to royalty of every nation - came to tea on the terrace at Shepheard’s.’
Christine states that she was inspired by events such as the luxurious Shepheard’s Hotel in Cairo and also the drama surrounding Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson with a particular focus on their time in Portugal during the Second World War. There is also a focus on French courtesan Marguerite Meller and this is one plot line to which I felt was more deserving of more time. Finally, there was a strong focus on high end jewelry and some of Cartier history. Then, finally, a small reference to some military units from WWII. With lots of characters and many plot lines there was no one angle that grabbed me fully. This felt like a lighter version of historical fiction with some interesting inclusions of interest but too many to have one particular appeal.
“I don’t know about all that, but if you ask me, the fellow doesn’t seem to want to be King.”
Whilst the main focus of the novel is Cloe's quest for identity, Christine takes a range of threads and possible scenarios to form an interesting story that covers both intriguing topics and locations. Historical fiction lovers are sure to find something to capture their attention.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
June 7, 2023
I found this novel swung from interesting sections to overlong, random segments. It’s hard to review a novel which had this level of divergence. I also question some of the historical references.
So, with that being said, I suspect that those of us who enjoy historical fiction might find a better vehicle. The heroine is very likable, but her character is wasted on tracking ghosts and gossip. Some of these rumors simply don’t hold up to scrutiny.
Thank you Netgalley.
So, with that being said, I suspect that those of us who enjoy historical fiction might find a better vehicle. The heroine is very likable, but her character is wasted on tracking ghosts and gossip. Some of these rumors simply don’t hold up to scrutiny.
Thank you Netgalley.
August 16, 2023
A glorious new novel by one of my fav authors, featuring intrigue around the parentage of Cleo Davenport, possibly the daughter of the Duke of Windsor long before Wallis Simpson came on the scene. The riveting tale transports readers from England to Cairo to Paris as WWII nears. Histfic fans will love it, as I did!
October 10, 2023
I am not one to follow a lot of Windsor royalty, but I love this authors work, so I bought a copy of her latest and I was happy to read this scandalous account of the possibility of a secret daughter of the Prince of Wales. Reminder this is historical fiction.
Cleo Davenport has wondered if she was the child of the Prince of Wales. She has heard the gossip. He is the heir to the British throne. She grew up being called “The Princess”.
When she turns seventeen she is sent to London to make her debut. She must learn about etiquette, dancing, manners amongst other things that life could offer. Cleo has other plans. She longs to be a jewelry designer for Cartier, and not a life confined to marriage.
Wells novel is full of hope, scandals and the coming of age of Cleo.
Cleo Davenport has wondered if she was the child of the Prince of Wales. She has heard the gossip. He is the heir to the British throne. She grew up being called “The Princess”.
When she turns seventeen she is sent to London to make her debut. She must learn about etiquette, dancing, manners amongst other things that life could offer. Cleo has other plans. She longs to be a jewelry designer for Cartier, and not a life confined to marriage.
Wells novel is full of hope, scandals and the coming of age of Cleo.
September 13, 2023
I loved this! This spans pre WWII - post war. Our main girl is Cleo and we meet her in Cairo where she grew up as an orphan. She’s never known who her parents are but there has always been a rumor that her father is Edward VIII (the one who married Wallis Simpson). As she travels to Paris and London with her guardians family, we follow as she has her debutante season and investigates who her parents really are. But that’s not all. Cleo is a jewelry designer and we follow as she chases that dream all with WWII looming. There’s a lot going on but it really worked for me.
November 5, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley & William Morrow Paperbacks for an eARC of this book. The following review is my honest reflection on the text provided.
3.5 stars
Wells did a good job weaving actual historical facts, real people, and widespread rumours with fictional characters to create conspiracy and intrigue. Where she fell a little short was pacing to maintain interest and detail to flesh out these ideas.
I admired Cleo’s determination to be independent and follow her dreams. It’s not foolhardy or impractical - she has a real talent and pursues her goals with logic and impressive foresight. She declines funding from those who may have ulterior motives, makes her feelings clear even if they may be unpopular, and her perseverance gets her meetings with the right people and proves her interest. She even turns down what she may want most in the world to be truly independent.
Cleo’s determination to find her biological parents was a little less believable. Her desire ebbs and flows depending on convenience, and the matter only seems to arise when it can’t be avoided without explanation. Considering how much effort, planning, and research is put into starting her own business, very little is put into examining whether there is any truth behind the facts she discovers. Everyone else does this work for her, and she just stumbles into discoveries with little effort.
Some may enjoy a meandering plot, but it makes me feel sleepy and uninformed. Wells did not delve into any details; we just followed Cleo on her path from Cairo to Paris to England to Paris to England to Paris to England to… you get the picture. There may have been some Scottish interludes and returns to Cairo, but at this point, I can’t be sure. If we spent too much time in one place, Cleo’s complete lack of intimate relationships would become apparent and distract from this romantic vision of two childhood friends separated by class and wealth and forced apart. Instead, Cleo collects and discards acquaintances based on her current location, and she and Brodie seem to know exactly what the other is thinking despite never vocalising anything. They may have grown up together, but they spend so many years apart and barely speaking that their love story becomes less believable as more time passes.
An enjoyable read, The Royal Windsor Secret never quite became great, but it was a fun traipse through history and rumour.
Review originally posted here on Britt's Book Blurbs.
3.5 stars
Wells did a good job weaving actual historical facts, real people, and widespread rumours with fictional characters to create conspiracy and intrigue. Where she fell a little short was pacing to maintain interest and detail to flesh out these ideas.
I admired Cleo’s determination to be independent and follow her dreams. It’s not foolhardy or impractical - she has a real talent and pursues her goals with logic and impressive foresight. She declines funding from those who may have ulterior motives, makes her feelings clear even if they may be unpopular, and her perseverance gets her meetings with the right people and proves her interest. She even turns down what she may want most in the world to be truly independent.
Cleo’s determination to find her biological parents was a little less believable. Her desire ebbs and flows depending on convenience, and the matter only seems to arise when it can’t be avoided without explanation. Considering how much effort, planning, and research is put into starting her own business, very little is put into examining whether there is any truth behind the facts she discovers. Everyone else does this work for her, and she just stumbles into discoveries with little effort.
Some may enjoy a meandering plot, but it makes me feel sleepy and uninformed. Wells did not delve into any details; we just followed Cleo on her path from Cairo to Paris to England to Paris to England to Paris to England to… you get the picture. There may have been some Scottish interludes and returns to Cairo, but at this point, I can’t be sure. If we spent too much time in one place, Cleo’s complete lack of intimate relationships would become apparent and distract from this romantic vision of two childhood friends separated by class and wealth and forced apart. Instead, Cleo collects and discards acquaintances based on her current location, and she and Brodie seem to know exactly what the other is thinking despite never vocalising anything. They may have grown up together, but they spend so many years apart and barely speaking that their love story becomes less believable as more time passes.
An enjoyable read, The Royal Windsor Secret never quite became great, but it was a fun traipse through history and rumour.
Review originally posted here on Britt's Book Blurbs.
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April 11, 2023
From the exotic hotels of pre-war Cairo to the glittering jewelry ateliers of Paris, Christine Wells has written a richly layered tale of intrigue in The Royal Windsor Secret. Fans of The Crown will delight in the familiar faces of Wallis Simpson and the Duke of Windsor even as they revel in this story of dreams and ambitions, love and war.
September 4, 2023
Thank you Harper Collins and Christine for sending us a copy to read and review.
The Royal Windsor Secret is an excellent historical fiction saga that shines, sparkles and glistens all the way through.
There’s always been the rumours of Cleo Davenport’s heritage and that she is the daughter of the Prince of Wales but nothing has ever been confirmed.
As a seventeen year old she goes to live with her Aunt, to get ready to go out in society.
But Cleo dreams of becoming a jewellery designer and have her independence.
But the gossip keeps going.
So Cleo decides to unravel the truth and embarks of a journey that takes her far and wide until the truth is finally revealed…..
A very refreshing and rewarding read that transports you to Cairo, Paris and England just to name a few and takes you back in time.
Riveting, fascinating, inspiring and totally spellbinding.
Mixing fact with fiction, Christine has dived in with her meticulous research and crafted a well thought out and clever narrative.
A captivating storyline, engaging plot and a cast of brilliant characters.
Compelling, mighty and strong, it will connect with loyal fans, old and new.
A definite appealing book and one I highly recommend.
The Royal Windsor Secret is an excellent historical fiction saga that shines, sparkles and glistens all the way through.
There’s always been the rumours of Cleo Davenport’s heritage and that she is the daughter of the Prince of Wales but nothing has ever been confirmed.
As a seventeen year old she goes to live with her Aunt, to get ready to go out in society.
But Cleo dreams of becoming a jewellery designer and have her independence.
But the gossip keeps going.
So Cleo decides to unravel the truth and embarks of a journey that takes her far and wide until the truth is finally revealed…..
A very refreshing and rewarding read that transports you to Cairo, Paris and England just to name a few and takes you back in time.
Riveting, fascinating, inspiring and totally spellbinding.
Mixing fact with fiction, Christine has dived in with her meticulous research and crafted a well thought out and clever narrative.
A captivating storyline, engaging plot and a cast of brilliant characters.
Compelling, mighty and strong, it will connect with loyal fans, old and new.
A definite appealing book and one I highly recommend.
December 20, 2024
I won this book in the Goodreads Giveaways, and I am thankful to William Morrow and Christine Wells for the opportunity to learn about a new book and author.
This was a beautifully written historical fiction book with a stunning cover. The story was eloquently told, and I was intrigued by the plot and characters throughout the book. I appreciated and enjoyed the author’s note at the back of the book, and I will definitely read another book by Christine Wells.
*I received this book from a free giveaway, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
This was a beautifully written historical fiction book with a stunning cover. The story was eloquently told, and I was intrigued by the plot and characters throughout the book. I appreciated and enjoyed the author’s note at the back of the book, and I will definitely read another book by Christine Wells.
*I received this book from a free giveaway, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
August 25, 2023
The Royal Windsor Secret is very much a story about a young woman who is keen to uncover facts surrounding her birth. Who are her real parents? But it is also a story about creativity, being true to yourself, following your dreams, finding love and following your goals. It is about family and what that means— not necessarily blood connections but also other relationships— including those who are guardians. As you’d expect, there are some great twists in the parentage plot, with plenty of secrets and lies that swirl around the topic to keep interest high.
Without question, I enjoyed all the mayhem, mystery and royalty connections that ooze from this novel but I particularly found a nugget in the jeweller design journey of Cleo Davenport. The horrid losses and effects of World War II, the political and financial nightmares that abounded, the painful ebb and flow of romances, the childhood friendships that change in adulthood, the disappointing roadblocks and discoveries in seeking true parentage, the ups and downs of royal figures: these are all worthy topics explored well in The Royal Windsor Secret but for me the golden centre of the story that shines beautifully is Cleo’s jewellery creations and the talent she never abandons because it is part of her soul.
Cleo’s dedication to pursue her dream, does come at great personal expense, though. Is the sacrifice worth it? I think so. These parts of the story really sparkled for me. I love how she draws inspiration from her circumstances, art and artefacts in the Louvre, and natural environment like snowflakes and sunsets. And when she is feeling empty from all the trials happening in her life, the beauty of the night sky sets her imagination back on fire. Stunning elements of nature flow through her art and make it sing with authenticity. This act of creativity realigns her core and even sets the world right in her eyes. True purpose provides real pleasure. Pleasure and fulfilment that lasts long after the party sparklers have died down and the crowds have diminished. The wonderful thing about standing on her gut instincts and staying true to herself, brings love back to her in full measure. She gets to have both by not compromising.
The power of jewels is not only present in Cleo’s life but they are also prominent in Marguerite the courtesan’s life: to the point she would risk her life to save them (as she tried in the story). But her attachment to the jewellery is different from Cleo’s. Marguerite’s identity and self-worth is tied up in them. Cleo’s jewellery designs are an extension of herself. And she certainly never pulls the stunts that Marguerite does to gain position, fame or money. This woman is quite a colourful character and adds a large dose of spice to the plot with her constant conniving and outrageous antics. As her character traits unveil, we begin to wonder like the author if she has a mental illness.
Other characters to mention are Lord & Lady Grayson who are a wonderful couple and support Cleo in so many ways. They have an intriguing part in the story that readers will find satisfying when all is revealed. And, of course, Cleo’s longstanding childhood friend Brodie who has also been embraced by the Grayson’s with love and protection. Of course, the royals King Edward III and Wallis Simpson and Marguerite were real people and part of this story but there are some fictional elements added where needed. In fact, this novel is a wondrous mix of fact and fiction. The Grayson’s, Brodie, Cleo, Serafina and the Santerres are fictional but inspired by various people and their events. And we must not forget Shepheard’s Hotel that played host to many prominent people over the years so it makes a great setting for Cleo’s life. It is an exhilarating journey as we are whisked back and forth between France, Egypt, Portugal and Scotland.
The Royal Windsor Secret is an intriguing story told from Cleo’s and Marguerite’s viewpoints. It is well researched and covers plenty of drama, real and imagined, that will keep most historical fiction lovers fascinated with its mystery, mayhem, colourful figures and settings. Fans of Christine Wells will most certainly enjoy her latest offering. 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to HarperCollins Australia and Netgalley for a review copy.
Without question, I enjoyed all the mayhem, mystery and royalty connections that ooze from this novel but I particularly found a nugget in the jeweller design journey of Cleo Davenport. The horrid losses and effects of World War II, the political and financial nightmares that abounded, the painful ebb and flow of romances, the childhood friendships that change in adulthood, the disappointing roadblocks and discoveries in seeking true parentage, the ups and downs of royal figures: these are all worthy topics explored well in The Royal Windsor Secret but for me the golden centre of the story that shines beautifully is Cleo’s jewellery creations and the talent she never abandons because it is part of her soul.
Cleo’s dedication to pursue her dream, does come at great personal expense, though. Is the sacrifice worth it? I think so. These parts of the story really sparkled for me. I love how she draws inspiration from her circumstances, art and artefacts in the Louvre, and natural environment like snowflakes and sunsets. And when she is feeling empty from all the trials happening in her life, the beauty of the night sky sets her imagination back on fire. Stunning elements of nature flow through her art and make it sing with authenticity. This act of creativity realigns her core and even sets the world right in her eyes. True purpose provides real pleasure. Pleasure and fulfilment that lasts long after the party sparklers have died down and the crowds have diminished. The wonderful thing about standing on her gut instincts and staying true to herself, brings love back to her in full measure. She gets to have both by not compromising.
The power of jewels is not only present in Cleo’s life but they are also prominent in Marguerite the courtesan’s life: to the point she would risk her life to save them (as she tried in the story). But her attachment to the jewellery is different from Cleo’s. Marguerite’s identity and self-worth is tied up in them. Cleo’s jewellery designs are an extension of herself. And she certainly never pulls the stunts that Marguerite does to gain position, fame or money. This woman is quite a colourful character and adds a large dose of spice to the plot with her constant conniving and outrageous antics. As her character traits unveil, we begin to wonder like the author if she has a mental illness.
Other characters to mention are Lord & Lady Grayson who are a wonderful couple and support Cleo in so many ways. They have an intriguing part in the story that readers will find satisfying when all is revealed. And, of course, Cleo’s longstanding childhood friend Brodie who has also been embraced by the Grayson’s with love and protection. Of course, the royals King Edward III and Wallis Simpson and Marguerite were real people and part of this story but there are some fictional elements added where needed. In fact, this novel is a wondrous mix of fact and fiction. The Grayson’s, Brodie, Cleo, Serafina and the Santerres are fictional but inspired by various people and their events. And we must not forget Shepheard’s Hotel that played host to many prominent people over the years so it makes a great setting for Cleo’s life. It is an exhilarating journey as we are whisked back and forth between France, Egypt, Portugal and Scotland.
The Royal Windsor Secret is an intriguing story told from Cleo’s and Marguerite’s viewpoints. It is well researched and covers plenty of drama, real and imagined, that will keep most historical fiction lovers fascinated with its mystery, mayhem, colourful figures and settings. Fans of Christine Wells will most certainly enjoy her latest offering. 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to HarperCollins Australia and Netgalley for a review copy.
September 14, 2023
The Royal Windsor Secret is an interesting story, full of mystery, royal intrigue, and some romance all set in the leadup and during WWII.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆?
I love how every time I pick up a book from Well’s I’m immediately whisked off to another time and place (Cairo, Paris, and London). Plus, I always learn something new about the less glamourous women in history.
Now let’s get to the juicy reason for picking up this book…It is a story about the possible love child, Cleo, of the Prince of Whales and a high-class courtesan, so of course I was drawn into all the mystery surrounding Cleo’s true parentage. Plus, history has recorded the Prince of Wales scandalous behavior, so it really is possible that there may have been a love child.
I also really enjoyed seeing Cleo’s character grow and blossom as she learned to hone her passion for creating jewelry during a time when women were not allowed into this particular industry.
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵?
Wells does a phenomenal job when it comes to research and looking for unique persons in history and the interesting lives they lived. I definitely went down the Google rabbit hole after reading this book just so I could learn even more about jewelry design during this time, historic hotels, and of course more royal secrets.
And the Authors Notes are an absolute must! Wells describes each person in more detail and how they are all connected with each other.
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲?
This is a slow burn and at times the story became repetitive which slowed down the story further.
𝗗𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸?
I recommend this book to those who love historical fiction.
Thank you, William Morrow, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆?
I love how every time I pick up a book from Well’s I’m immediately whisked off to another time and place (Cairo, Paris, and London). Plus, I always learn something new about the less glamourous women in history.
Now let’s get to the juicy reason for picking up this book…It is a story about the possible love child, Cleo, of the Prince of Whales and a high-class courtesan, so of course I was drawn into all the mystery surrounding Cleo’s true parentage. Plus, history has recorded the Prince of Wales scandalous behavior, so it really is possible that there may have been a love child.
I also really enjoyed seeing Cleo’s character grow and blossom as she learned to hone her passion for creating jewelry during a time when women were not allowed into this particular industry.
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵?
Wells does a phenomenal job when it comes to research and looking for unique persons in history and the interesting lives they lived. I definitely went down the Google rabbit hole after reading this book just so I could learn even more about jewelry design during this time, historic hotels, and of course more royal secrets.
And the Authors Notes are an absolute must! Wells describes each person in more detail and how they are all connected with each other.
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲?
This is a slow burn and at times the story became repetitive which slowed down the story further.
𝗗𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸?
I recommend this book to those who love historical fiction.
Thank you, William Morrow, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 19, 2023
Wonderful historical fiction set in Egypt, Portugal, France, and British Isles. The book starts in Cairo as we meet young Cleo, the heroine of our story. She is and orphan who has fortunately been taken into the care of some generous aristocrats. Cleo has lived a carefree life until she is taken to France/England to prepare for her debut into society.
I enjoyed reading about the different designers and places as she visits. The back story of a Cleo gets to begin her task of becoming a jewelry designer and finding out about her birth parents. It had been rumored that she is the love child of The Prince of Wales. The backstory from the popular courtesan adds to the intrigue.
The story takes us through the war, the scandal of the abdication of the Englands King and some of the aftermath of the war. One becomes vested in the core characters and the glimpse of romantic possibilities. All of this combined makes for a memorable and enjoyable read. Thank you netgalley for the chance to read and review this book.
I enjoyed reading about the different designers and places as she visits. The back story of a Cleo gets to begin her task of becoming a jewelry designer and finding out about her birth parents. It had been rumored that she is the love child of The Prince of Wales. The backstory from the popular courtesan adds to the intrigue.
The story takes us through the war, the scandal of the abdication of the Englands King and some of the aftermath of the war. One becomes vested in the core characters and the glimpse of romantic possibilities. All of this combined makes for a memorable and enjoyable read. Thank you netgalley for the chance to read and review this book.
December 11, 2023
The Royal Windsor Secret by Christine Wells ♥️ is a new dazzling, royal novel sweeping with jewells ✡️ diamonds 💎 and emeralds.
From Shepheard's Hotel in Cairo, Egypt and then onto Angelina's in Paris this novel is sure to delight you.
There's ballrooms, garden parties, a high class Courtesan who has an affair with the Prince of Wales and mentions of Wallis Simpson.
It's quite intense to read 📚.
I really enjoyed hearing all about the jewellery business and the description and the design of all the jewells.
Five diamonds 💎 💎 💎 💎 💎 and a Ruby to Christine Wells for this one, The Royal Windsor Secret.
I'm now looking forward to The Paris Gown coming to us all in 2024.
From Shepheard's Hotel in Cairo, Egypt and then onto Angelina's in Paris this novel is sure to delight you.
There's ballrooms, garden parties, a high class Courtesan who has an affair with the Prince of Wales and mentions of Wallis Simpson.
It's quite intense to read 📚.
I really enjoyed hearing all about the jewellery business and the description and the design of all the jewells.
Five diamonds 💎 💎 💎 💎 💎 and a Ruby to Christine Wells for this one, The Royal Windsor Secret.
I'm now looking forward to The Paris Gown coming to us all in 2024.
April 19, 2024
I made it to 43%. Not my jam
October 21, 2023
The Royal Windsor secret was a book that I thought I wanted to read but when I picked it up it wasn’t the plot line I thought it was. It really didn’t get that far
June 25, 2023
Wow. Yet another book I have read recently that I love. I enjoyed this book from start to finish and found the facts and fictions of this book worked really well together.
The main story revolved around Cleo, a young girl left on a doorstep in Cairo only to be taken in by Serafina Davenport. She is brought up in the Shepherd's Hotel and becomes friends with Brodie. So this story really does revolve around Cleo, her life, her love of designing jewelry, her love of Brodie and her passion to find out who her real parents are.
I loved the dual-timeline and the many different characters that made this story so enticing. There are plenty of twists within this story and some you don't see coming. It is well written, flows effortlessly between characters and timelines and is such an interesting tale.
A wonderful read and one I highly recommend.
The Royal Windsor Secret
Christine Wells
HarperCollins
The main story revolved around Cleo, a young girl left on a doorstep in Cairo only to be taken in by Serafina Davenport. She is brought up in the Shepherd's Hotel and becomes friends with Brodie. So this story really does revolve around Cleo, her life, her love of designing jewelry, her love of Brodie and her passion to find out who her real parents are.
I loved the dual-timeline and the many different characters that made this story so enticing. There are plenty of twists within this story and some you don't see coming. It is well written, flows effortlessly between characters and timelines and is such an interesting tale.
A wonderful read and one I highly recommend.
The Royal Windsor Secret
Christine Wells
HarperCollins
July 11, 2023
I discovered Christine’s books a couple of years ago with Sisters of the Resistance and fell in love with the way how she weaves in real and fictional characters into lesser known historical events. I have them eagerly devoured her other novels and was so glad to get my hands on this eARC- it’s her best yet. I loved being transported not only back in time but to an array of stunning destinations- Cairo, Paris, London, The French Riviera, Scotland and Lisbon. It also had such a luxurious feel with visits to Chanel, Cartier and Angelina’s tea house.
Told from dual point of views we get to know both Cleo Davenport, a jewelry designer and Marguerite Fahmy, a Paris Socialite. Whilst both women were chalk and cheese, Marguerite may not have been the most likable character but she definitely had an interesting life! I was a bit sad to see that Cleo was a fictional character, I really enjoyed her story for her search for her parents, her life in Cairo and her jewelry designs.
Another amazingly researched novel- I enjoyed the backdrop of the King’s Coronations and then abdication, very fitting with recent events. I had done some reading on the Duke and Duchess of Windsor last year and found them very fascinating. This time round it was The Shepheard’s Hotel and Marguerite that got me Googling to find out more. I look forward to the next gem that Christine unearths next.
Told from dual point of views we get to know both Cleo Davenport, a jewelry designer and Marguerite Fahmy, a Paris Socialite. Whilst both women were chalk and cheese, Marguerite may not have been the most likable character but she definitely had an interesting life! I was a bit sad to see that Cleo was a fictional character, I really enjoyed her story for her search for her parents, her life in Cairo and her jewelry designs.
Another amazingly researched novel- I enjoyed the backdrop of the King’s Coronations and then abdication, very fitting with recent events. I had done some reading on the Duke and Duchess of Windsor last year and found them very fascinating. This time round it was The Shepheard’s Hotel and Marguerite that got me Googling to find out more. I look forward to the next gem that Christine unearths next.
April 12, 2024
I found aspects of this story engaging, but also a bit disjointed with several sections that dragged. The book is presented as being about Cleo's search to unlock the secret of her parentage, but that isn't a consistent element; her search sort of just fades out of the story. There is an eventual reveal, but it’s pretty anticlimactic by that point. Cleo was sometimes hard for me to relate to, and I loathed Marguerite. I loved Brodie, but he's absent from the story more often than he's present. There's also a distant quality to the narrative voice that kept me from connecting very deeply. I didn't dislike the book for all that, but I sometimes had to push myself to keep reading.
July 27, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It had enough love, romance, secrets, mystery, jewels, great characters and gorgeous locations to keep me thoroughly entranced from beginning to end. I loved Cleo’s determination to make something of herself in a world dominated by men in post war Europe. I loved how she did what she thought was the best even though it really hurt her to do that. And I loved how she finally found out the truth and was happy with that. I can’t wait to read more books by Christine Wells.
April 10, 2023
In The Royal Windsor Secret, Christine Wells takes a fascinating chapter in the Duke of Windsor’s early life and gives it an equally fascinating coda in the form of a love child, who shares all of the duke’s passion and impulsivity, and yearns for a life beyond what she already knows. The truth of Cleo’s parentage will have you turning pages until the very end, while Cleo’s search for fulfilment — creative, professional, social, and romantic — results in a beautifully told tale.
November 24, 2023
For such an exciting period in time this dragged. I wish the book had focused more on terrible Marguerite than little orphan Annie. I mean, Cleo.
Plucky orphan who delights all she meets is too saccharine for me.
Plucky orphan who delights all she meets is too saccharine for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2024
It seems like as soon as something is about to happen, the story skips ahead to the next season. Then all the interesting bits are summarized after the fact, rather than having them happen within the story for us to read.
Read
August 4, 2023The Royal Windsor Secret follows the story of Cleo, who is told she was an orphan but has been brought up under the guidance of the wealthy, even being called Princess. She has a deep need to know who her parents are, especially whether or not the Prince of Wales is her father. As she sets forth on her journey to become a jewelry designer, the question of her parentage continues to linger.
I enjoyed that The Royal Windsor Secret is a bit mysterious. There’s more to the story of Cleo’s parentage than she knows, and it’s hard to know whose story to trust. Cleo’s a determined, unfiltered young lady and I had no doubt she could achieve whatever she set her mind to.
Overall, this book is quite the journey. I’d recommend it for those who like a little mystery to their history, have interest in jewelry making and love a good historical fiction book!
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and independent publicist Angela Melamud for the opportunity to read this book. The review expresses my own opinions.
I enjoyed that The Royal Windsor Secret is a bit mysterious. There’s more to the story of Cleo’s parentage than she knows, and it’s hard to know whose story to trust. Cleo’s a determined, unfiltered young lady and I had no doubt she could achieve whatever she set her mind to.
Overall, this book is quite the journey. I’d recommend it for those who like a little mystery to their history, have interest in jewelry making and love a good historical fiction book!
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and independent publicist Angela Melamud for the opportunity to read this book. The review expresses my own opinions.
August 31, 2023
I enjoy Historical Fiction, but I really enjoy Royal Historical Fiction so I was excited to get an ARC of this book. This one started off slow for me but after a few chapters I started getting more into it. If you know about Maggie Meller, aka Princess Fahmy, she is also in this book. This book takes place just before WWII through after. Cleo was dropped off at a doorstep as a baby in Cairo. She has no idea who her real parents are but she is raised quite well off. She grows up in the Shepheard's Hotel. Cleo moves to London for her to be introduced for the season. She gets involved with Marguerite Meller, who tells her that she is her mother and the then Prince of Wales is indeed her father. She is excited to meet the now King Edward VIII but also extremely nervous. She desperately wants to know where she came from. King Edward VIII has now abdicated and Cleo gets sent to be a secretary for Wallis Simpson and to keep an eye on the now Duke of Windsor. She wants to confront him but what will he say or do? I ended up enjoying this book. A kind of What If scenario.
September 12, 2023
First, I loved the fabulous cover art for this book. I liked the plot of the book and the author successfully incorporated several subplots that flowed well ,with each other. I loved the Shepheard Hotel and all the jewelry designing. The author’s note helped pull all the pieces together.
I wasn’t crazy about Cleo, the main character. I thought for most of,the book she was desperately throwing herself at people who wanted nothing to do with her while discounting the people she had right in front of her. I wasn’t surprised to find out her true parentage. I thought she was an idiot when it came to Brodie and she was lucky he believed in her.
I’ve never cared for the David and Wallis and Wells’ novel shows them in their true light: vain, petulant, small people. David was also a traitor and should, have been sent to Antarctica.
Lord Grayson was my favorite character, he was an absolute peach of a man.
Marguerite was a despicable character.
Thanks to William Morrow and NetGalley for the early read.
I wasn’t crazy about Cleo, the main character. I thought for most of,the book she was desperately throwing herself at people who wanted nothing to do with her while discounting the people she had right in front of her. I wasn’t surprised to find out her true parentage. I thought she was an idiot when it came to Brodie and she was lucky he believed in her.
I’ve never cared for the David and Wallis and Wells’ novel shows them in their true light: vain, petulant, small people. David was also a traitor and should, have been sent to Antarctica.
Lord Grayson was my favorite character, he was an absolute peach of a man.
Marguerite was a despicable character.
Thanks to William Morrow and NetGalley for the early read.
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