Review of 'The Royal Windsor Secret' by Christine Wells

Review of 'The Royal Windsor Secret' by Christine Wells

Paperback Release date: Oct 4, 2023 (Harper Collins Australia)

E-book: Sept 12th, 2023 (William Morrow Books)

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REVIEW

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 historical fiction lovers fascinated with its mystery, mayhem, colourful figures and settings. Fans of Christine Wells will certainly enjoy her latest offering. 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Many thanks to HarperCollins Australia and Netgalley for a review copy.