In her day, Gracie Fields was one of the highest paid stars in the world. Appearing in a series of films which reflected the spirit of a troubled decade and cutting hundreds of superb recordings, she became an international legend and a national institution, always retaining what she called her 'common touch', the image that endeared her to millions and made her into a household name. She led an extraordinary life, working in the UK and Hollywood, opening her own theatre, living in Italy and the US, she paid for troops to travel free in Rochdale, played the first Miss Marple, and much more, appearing on TV into the 70s and 80s. In this the first full-length biography of Gracie, fully authorised by her family, David Bret reveals the real Gracie Fields a complex woman far removed from the mill-girl-to-riches persona she conveyed to her adoring public, as seen by her family and closest friends.Based on sources that include personal war diaries, private correspondence, many first-hand interviews and unique photographs from her private archive, Bret reveals her personal tragedies, great bravery and her often extreme naivety. He also includes details from Gracie's stepdaughter, Irene Bevan, who reveals, amongst much else, the truth behind Gracie's three failed marriages and the other romances in her life. Bret tells Gracie's story with honest and compassion, never denying her talent, that indefatigable genius which enabled her to remain a true daughter of the people for over half a century. David Bret was born in Paris and is a leading celebrity biographer. His many acclaimed books include biographies of Edith Piaf, Doris Day, Joan Crawford, Jean Harlow and Clark Gable (all published by JR Books). He lives in Yorkshire.