06/10/2024
She started life as Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, a privileged beauty who didn't see herself as a future royal. A lover of food and a good party, as an adult she was partial to drinking gin and Dubonnet but was no stranger to other concoctions. It took three proposals before she accepted the offer from the Duke of York, who, through a famous abdication, became king. She was witty and a master of the art of conversation. She could talk to anyone and showed genuine interest in people, a trait that made her beloved by the public. She helped her husband conquer his stammer. She was steadfast and supportive through his surprisingly successful reign. The mother of a future queen, her influence should not be overlooked. Russell (The Ship of Dreams) has not written a biography, but a collection of fun anecdotes that help listeners know the subject. Narrator Fiona Hampton is serviceable but doesn't quite capture the Queen Mother. VERDICT Despite everything royal being hot right now, this is an optional purchase. The book includes photos, and the narration does not elevate the text.—Christa Van Herreweghe
