King Edward VIII / Philip Ziegler.

"The official biography of the man who gave up his kingdom for love"--Cover.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 635-636) and index.

The authorised life story of the king who gave up his throne for love, by one of our most distinguished biographers In this masterly authorised biography, Philip Ziegler reveals the complex personality of Edward VIII, the only British monarch to have voluntarily renounced the throne. When Edward became King in January 1936, he was hailed as the best qualified of British monarchs. Widely travelled, good-looking, charming and quick-witted, he was also praised for his concern for the unemployed and the poor. Only those closest to him suspected that this radiant image would not endure. The entire life of Edward VIII is examined in this highly readable and entertaining account -- from his glamorous existence as Prince of Wales to his long decline in semi-exile in France. With his customary style and elegance, Ziegler examines Edward's turbulent relationships with leading Royals and his all-consuming passion for Wallis Simpson which led to his abdication. The result is an utterly compelling biography that explodes many myths about Edward, and tells his side of the story.