Critics Review

• A thoroughly entertaining account of some of London’s most treasured history, with its beloved The Savoy at the heart of a fascinating and delightful plot. Bravo to Olivia Williams and her fantastically colourful cast of characters.

  Lady Kinvara Balfour, director and producer

• An elegantly crafted, yet spritely and sparkling book, perfectly befitting its subject. Williams uses group biography to beautifully illuminate some of London’s greatest hotel and theatre landmarks.

  Ophelia Field, author of The Favourite

• A cracking good read and a fascinating story that – amazingly – has not been told before.

  Fiona Duncan, the Telegraph

• A feast of gloriously eccentric and compelling characters… a veritable cornucopia of explanations and clarifications… endlessly compelling.

  Mike Leigh, director of Gilbert and Sullivan biopic 'Topsy-Turvy'

• This is a fascinating story, and it could not be better told. Elegant, great fun, and with a finely-judged personal touch: much like the Savoy hotel itself.

  Laura Thompson, biographer of Agatha Christie and the Mitford Sisters

• Williams writes with authority and style, making her ideal to chronicle the story of the Savoy.

  Richard Vines, Bloomberg

• The story of how one family’s vision shaped not only a British institution but the very idea of luxury. From Belle Epoque scandals to Hollywood gossip, and from kitchen politics to corporate swashbuckling, Williams’ writing is deliciously alive with the type of behind-the-scenes drama that will transport you back in time.

  Francesca Cartier Brickell, author of 'The Cartiers'

• A new book by Olivia Williams is to be welcomed as a reminder that “at their height”, the D’Oyly Cartes ranked as “the greatest impresarios and hoteliers in the world” – as dynamic, innovative and powerful in their way as any of today’s media dynasties.

  Daily Telegraph

• Whether it’s The Beatles being blocked from entry or Marilyn Monroe sipping tea in a daring dress, London’s Savoy Hotel has seen its share of intrigue and controversy for more than a century. Olivia Williams reveals its most decadent moments.

  You Magazine

• From Churchill to the real 007 via the suffragettes – an unbelievable reel of secrets is revealed

  Telegraph

• A transportive story

  Tatler

• This sumptuous book offers a delicious insight

  The Sun

• Delves into the 5 star hotel’s illustrious history, from Oscar Wilde’s weekly £6,000 bills to whisky heir Thomas Dewar’s 40 YEAR stay

  Daily Mail

• A real triumph, beautifully written, with many wonderful stories of the Savoy

  Lady Anne Glenconner, author of LADY IN WAITING

• A remarkable biography

  The Eastern Eye

• A fascinating glimpse into the past. . . Williams’ biography is informative and hugely entertaining, painting a deliciously decadent picture of the glamour, theatre and scandal that surrounded the D’Oyly Cartes.

  Culture Fly