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The Mountbattens

Their Lives & Loves

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The Mountbattens

By: Andrew Lownie
Narrated by: Andrew Lownie
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About this listen

A major figure behind his nephew Philip's marriage to Queen Elizabeth II and instrumental in the royal family taking the Mountbatten name, Dickie Mountbatten's career included being Supreme Allied Commander of South East Asia during World War Two and the last Viceroy of India.

Once the richest woman in Britain and a playgirl who enjoyed numerous affairs, Edwina Mountbatten emerged from World War Two as a magnetic and talented charity worker loved around the world.

From the prize-winning and best-selling historian Andrew Lownie comes a nuanced portrayal of two very unusual people and their complex marriage to mark the 40th anniversary of Lord Mountbatten's assassination by the IRA.

From British high society and the South of France to the battlefields of Burma and the Viceroy's House, this is a rich and filmic story whose characters include all the key figures of the Second World War. From Churchill and Montgomery to Roosevelt and Eisenhower; the Royal Family, including the Duke of Windsor, George VI, the Queen, Prince Philip and Prince Charles; to Charlie Chaplin, Noel Coward, Salvador Dali, George Gershwin, Grace Kelly and Merle Oberon.

©2019 Andrew Lownie (P)2019 Bonnier Books UK Europe Great Britain Military Politics & Activism Royalty Inspiring War Thought-Provoking Winston Churchill

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All stars
Most relevant  
You need to want to know about this chap. I discovered I didn't. Edwina's life's account was entertaining. If you think this account will delve into Dickie's relationship with Charles. It doesn't. It's only mentioned here and there..

Not what I thought

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It was a struggle to hear the content. My single star relates not to the narration, which I could have appreciated more, had I been able to hear it clearly, but to the technical production.
I would prefer to have control over the volume, rather than have it set for me.

What sounds reasonable during a sample hearing becomes almost a whisper after purchase.

That aside, The Mountbattens did reveal a man who appeared to have relied heavily on title, and used it to maintain his position.
He and his wife were a good match, leaving legacies which will continue to be debated.



Spoiled by low level audio

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Went on too long and by the end was loosing the will to live. Too much mundane waffle and lots of sex!

Lost interest

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Enjoyed this book. At times it felt details were glossed over, but it is a good contrast to Daughter of Empire. Perhaps more truthful!

Juicy details and good history

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so looked forward to listening to this book but unfortunately it was really a rehash of everything that has been written before

Rehash of everything

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I think some of the previous comments a little unfair. I found this a compelling insight into a complex marriage set against the turbulent history of the 20th century. It is a balanced narrative with lots of different viewpoints. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Interesting story of a complex couple.

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A comprehensive & fascinating insight into two extraordinary lives. Learnt so much about these complex individuals.

A fascinating slice of British aristocracy life

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I enjoyed this book, despite some of the mixed reviews. It is a fascinating insight into the lives of two privileged, but very dysfunctional, people. I disagree with the reviewer who stated that this book doesn't give much insight into Mountbatten the man. I came away with the strong impression of a very emotionally immature man, promoted way beyond his capabilities because of his connections - something that clearly still goes on in our society today. The book would have made much more sense if Mountbatten's alleged homosexual and pederastic proclivities were discussed in a chronological way throughout the book, instead of right at the end. It would have contextualised the difficulties that defined the couple's entire relationship.

Altogether an entertaining book, with a stellar cast of characters, capably read by the author - always a plus.

Interesting.

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Jaw-dropping in its dissection of the Mountbatten private lives. I had read the extracts in newspapers, but this is a much better book. The analysis of joint operations, his wartime command of SE ASIA and as the last Viceroy is stunning. The transformation of Edwina from a pleasure seeker to a woman of substance and value is the books lasting impression

Jaw-dropping in it's dissection of the Mountbatten’s private lives

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Very well written book about this man and his wife. I remember his death from the TV at the time. As I listened, the more I thought that they both lived the life of riches and excess. They did what they liked, but also helped a lot along the way, especially during the WW2. The narrator is easy to listen to and it has been a joy to listen to.

Extremely eye opening!

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