As a fan of C.W. Gortner's The First Actress, I couldn't wait to read his latest historical fiction novel; the fact that it was about Jennie Jerome Churchill, Winston Churchill's fascinating American-born mother, made it even more enticing!

I've read several Churchill biographies and read Ralph Martin's well-known biography of Jennie Churchill, so I was familiar with some aspects of her story. Gortner recreates the glamorous, complicated, and sometimes tragic world of Jennie Churchill brilliantly and movingly. The relationship between Jennie and Randolph Churchill (Winston's father) is quite complicated, but their genuine feelings for each other are undeniable.

(Gortner addresses rumors about Randolph's sexuality and the decisions he made in telling his story in his author's note; might want to read that before reading the story.)


Many thanks to William Morrow and NetGalley for a digital review copy in exchange for an honest review,

this historical fiction title explores the life of Jennie Jerome Churchill, Winston Churchill's mother. From her early years in New York City Jennie was determined to be herself and not be defined by the rigid expectations of society. But is it possible to find love and live the life you want and not be ostracized?

I enjoyed this book very much. It took me a little while to warm up to Jennie Jerome, and even longer to realize she was Winston Churchill's mother, but as I got further into the story, I didn't want to put it away.

Knowing very little about Winston Churchill's mother, this book was a real eye opener. Born in Brooklyn, NY , she spent her teenage and young adult years in Europe She married Randolph Churchill when she was 20 and Winton Churchill was born 8 months later.. What follows is her life and that of her family from the latter part of the 1800's to the early 1900"s. Interspersed through out are a list of interesting characters including Bertie, the Prince of Wales, ( son of Queen Victoria), along with her numerous paramours and husbands. The beginnings of Winston Churchill's political life is also included in the book. This was a fascinating read and I will recommend it to all with an interest in the Churchill family.

I have been fascinated by the life of Jennie Jerome since Martin’s 2 volume biography was published. So, this book written as a faux-memoir was a real treat. The book is narrated by Jennie and takes the reader through the various stages of her life. Without be laboring minutiae, we learn about the pivotal points and people who played an important role in Jennie’s life and in the history of the world.

As an American and mother of Winston Churchill, probably the most important politician of the 20th century, her role is notable. The author also reveals the details that that drove her, including all the “warts” that pushed her into poor life choices, especially those involving men.

This is a fine read that really exemplifies excellent historical fiction. I recommend it to people interested in women’s roles behind historical events.

Thank you Netgalley for this well written book book about an unwitting trailblazer in women’s rights.