Abdication is historical fiction that takes awhile to get going, but that's usual for setting the scene and the tone of the novel, introducing characters and whatnot. I wanted to love this novel, but unfortunately, I didn't. The abdication of the king takes a backseat to May Thomas and Evangeline Nettlefold, one a close friend of Wallace Simpson and the other a chauffer to Sir Philip Blunt. Their secrets, romances and resentment toward one another grows throughout the year that the novel spans. Although the details seem to be intricately wrought and obviously Nicolson has done tons of research, I found the novel lacking in depth - namely character. I just didn't find that connection from reader to character and it pained me as I kept turning the pages, desperately seeking it. Although I would give this novel three stars, as it does have tons of history embedded within and the writing is top-notch, I felt that I let the author down not finding that connection - or likewise. Some may find that connection and if you love historical fiction - pick this one up. You may find what I couldn't.
