by Anne Sebba
First published 2012
Anne Sebba presents the first major biography of Wallis Simpson written by a woman. Born Bessie Wallis Warfield in Baltimore in 1896, Simpson grew up poor and developed fierce ambitions to escape her circumstances. Though she lacked conventional beauty or intellect, she formed an intense bond with Prince Edward that scandalized the British establishment. Sebba draws on fresh interviews and recently found correspondence to examine Simpson's complex psychology and motivations. The biography explores whether Simpson actually wanted to marry Edward or found herself trapped by circumstances beyond her control. Sebba also investigates rumors about Simpson's possible medical condition and the obsessive quality of her relationship with the future king. The book reveals how Simpson transformed from a reviled figure into a symbol of female independence and fashion influence after her death. Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, famously referred to her only as "that woman." Sebba's account illuminates the enigmatic personality behind one of the twentieth century's most controversial women, whose story gained renewed attention through films like The King's Speech.
Genres: biography, historical-fiction, 20th-century, non-fiction
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, fish-out-of-water
Setting: Baltimore, Britain
Period: 20th Century
368 pages · Hardcover · St. Martin's Press