Review of 'Another Woman's Husband' by Gill Paul
A comprehensive stunning journey! I wanted to read a novel by Gill Paul as she was recommended to me by another excellent dual timeline author. I chose Another Woman’s Husband as my first read based on the inclusion of Princess Diana and her tragic death in 1997 and Wallis Simpson who stole the heart of a King who gave up his crown to be with her.
I am happy to have read this novel as Gill gave an amazing delivery of these two women who made an unforgettable impact on history. Telling their stories through other eyes provided unique perspectives on each.
First the story opens in Paris 1997 on August 31 with fictional characters Alex and Rachel in a taxi driving towards their destination when a car crash ahead stops them quickly. The unfortunate events of Princess Diana’s last moments are soon revealed. As the story progresses, we also learn of Alex and Rachel's professions and relationship trials while investigations of Diana's accident circles, weaves and winds its way through their lives.
The historical thread of the novel begins in 1911 with the first meeting of Mary and Wallis. We watch as their unusual friendship germinates, then blooms and withers over the years. Their complex relationship with each other is a long and challenging journey.
We learn of the actions, reactions and personality traits of Wallis through the perspective of Mary. Here we get a sense of what it must have been like for those who were caught in the orbit of Wallis for it appears she was a demanding lady. She did not treat those closest to her the best: especially Mary. It seems she was a woman who needed people around her that possessed the characteristics she lacked. Possibly to help her feel whole? At times, Wallis is seen as selfish with no thoughts of others. Was she just preoccupied with her own needs and desires? In this historical timeline, Gill gives us lots of think about. Who was Wallis, really?
As for Mary, it is easy to feel sympathetic towards her; especially when we see her devotion and sacrifice in the face of such harsh life battles. We want to see her obtain the love, loyalty and family she deserves. At times I was in tears for this woman in her suffering. Gill has painted such a compassionate picture of her that it draws out deep emotion in the reader.
It is a novel hard to put down as we follow the drama from one era to the next. From the trying performances of Wallis, the endless trials of Mary, to the questions posed over Diana’s death and her last movements. It was heartening to hear of Diana's kindly acts toward so many in her path. And as the fictional character Susie expresses, Diana’s charity work would have made major contributions to the world. The focus on Diana's giving and compassionate heart adds a nice touch to the story and to her memory.
I will definitely be reading more of Gill Paul's books. Her skill in telling stories of famous figures from the past has me hooked! For historical fiction often reflects fact (and must, to be believable) but in a creative way that draws us into those worlds we may never have experienced or otherwise encountered. 5 Easy Stars from me. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
