Ebook - Under No Illusion by Paul Daniels

Under No Illusion by Paul Daniels offers a digital journey into the mind of a legendary showman, presented with a raw candor that promises to challenge perceptions. This is not your typical polished celebrity autobiography; instead, it's an unfiltered account that traces a remarkable trajectory from Paul's humble Yorkshire roots to the opulent riverside estate that became his personal stage. Readers are invited to witness the evolution of a man driven by ambition and an unyielding belief in his own genius.

A Candid Life in the Spotlight

Paul Daniels pulls back the curtain on his life, revealing the struggles and triumphs that shaped his iconic career. From his early fascination with magic, nurtured by a library book, to his relentless pursuit of 'show business' over mere 'show business', his narrative is a testament to perseverance. He shares a unique perspective on his upbringing, his family's resilience, and the changing social landscape of his youth, often expressed with a forthrightness that might surprise.

Unconventional Views and Personal Revelations

This ebook doesn't shy away from controversial topics. Daniels offers his strong, traditional opinions on various societal aspects, including the role of national service and masculinity. Readers will also find candid confessions regarding his personal life, including details of affairs and the complexities of his first marriage. These revelations are presented with an unapologetic honesty, painting a picture of a man who lived life on his own terms, for better or worse.

The Rise of a Magician and TV Legend

Follow Daniels' ascent from club performances to becoming a household name with 'The Paul Daniels Show', a groundbreaking series that ran for an astonishing fifteen seasons. He recounts the pivotal moments of his television career, including his first encounter with the 'petite, lithe dancer' Debbie McGee, and the powerful partnership that subsequently blossomed. This book provides a rare, personal look into the making of a television phenomenon, packed with amusing anecdotes and insights into the entertainment industry.

An Unapologetic Legacy

'Under No Illusion' is more than just a chronological retelling; it's a bold declaration from a man who captivated millions, yet whose sharp edges and self-assured nature also drew criticism. It's a journey through wealth, fame, family dynamics, and the constant battle to stay at the top. This digital download is for anyone seeking an autobiography that dares to be different—a provocative, entertaining, and perhaps even infuriating read that leaves you truly 'under no illusion' about the man behind the magic.

Original Specs

Whenever Debbie and I give a party for our envious showbiz pals in our beautiful riverside home with 12 acres of formal gardens and stunning woodlands, I think of how far I have come from my humble Yorkshire origins.

My Mum and Dad were brilliant at everything. We were very poor, mind, but we never complained about our lot. We loved our nigger brown door - you could use words like that back then and no one took offence. Happy days.

I became interested in magic at an early age when I took out a book on the subject from the library. I must give it back some time!!!!! It's the way I tell 'em.

National Service made a man of me and taught me respect. The government should bring it back for the youth of today. Only for men, though. Soldiering isn't for women or poofs.

I couldn't get beyond kissing in my teens. But after I picked up a prostitute in Hong Kong there was no looking back and I had dozens of affairs throughout my unhappy marriage to Jackie. I guess I'm not small in all departments. D'you geddit? Small!

All this time I was doing the clubs in the evening and working for the council in the day. It was tough but worth it, as everyone agreed I was the best magician in the world. Well, nearly everyone. The odd person didn't understand what I was doing; they've probably gone on to be big in BBC light entertainment!!!

In the early 70s, I decided to concentrate on show BUSINESS rather than SHOW business and it soon paid off. I'm very, very rich now and I'm great to my family. I even let my brother, Trevor, drive my Ferrari sometimes. It does sadden me, though, that some people have said they couldn't work with me because I was a conceited know-all.

Throughout the 70s, my TV career took off and in 1979 we began the first of FIFTEEN series of the Paul Daniels Show. You heard me, FIFTEEN. It was here that I met a petite, lithe dancer called Debbie. She didn't fancy me at first but I took her on a boat and tidal waves of passion soon followed. Tidal waves. Geddit?

We're a great team. Apart from my son, whose problems are absolutely nothing to do with me, life is great and I could give you anecdote after anecdote of my amusing showbiz lifestyle. In fact, I will.

And if you really are pressed: The digested read, digested...

Magician's autobiography that ought to have been sawn in half and made to disappear. Will you like it? Not a lot.