Citizens of London

Lynne Olson's account of Americans in London during the Second World War is an account of people, not places or events. It ranges from her praiseworthy attempt to resuscitate the reputation of the heroic United States Ambassador John Gilbert Winant to sometimes-lengthy catalogues of sexual liaisons between prominent Americans and Britons. Some basic knowledge of the war in Europe comes in handy. The topics of Winant and Edward R. Murrow provide the focus that holds the sometimes-diffuse audiobook together--more so than the topic of the people of London. Arthur Morey's clear, measured voice gives the listener easy access to the numerous characters and sometimes-complex facts. Morey recounts bedroom gossip and high strategy in the same serious tone, not unlike Edward R. Murrow, who figures so prominently in the story. F.C. (c) AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine

Starred review from November 16, 2009
The Anglo-American alliance in WWII was not inevitable, writes former Baltimore Sun
correspondent Olson (Troublesome Young Men
). In this ingenious history, he emphasizes the role of three prominent Americans living in London who helped bring it about. Best known was Edward R. Murrow, head of CBS radio's European bureau after 1937. His pioneering live broadcasts during the blitz made him a celebrity, and Olson portrays a man who worked tirelessly to win American support for Britain. Most admirable of the three was John Winant, appointed American ambassador in 1941. A true humanitarian, he skillfully helped craft the British-American alliance. And most amusing was Averell Harriman, beginning a long public service career. In 1941, FDR sent the wealthy, ambitious playboy to London to oversee Lend-Lease aid. He loved the job, but made no personal sacrifices, living a luxurious life as he hobnobbed with world leaders and carried on an affair with Churchill's daughter-in-law. Olson, an insightful historian, contrasts the idealism of Winant and Murrow with the pragmatism of Harriman. But all three men were colorful, larger-than-life figures, and Olson's absorbing narrative does them justice. 16 pages of b&w photos.