For those of us interested in the back story of major TV shows, this book fits the bill for Downton Abbey. This book is written by a family member of Almina, one of the Duchess' of Carnarvon. She was the wealthy daughter of Alfred de Rothschild and accepted into English society despite her parents not being married. She married into one of the oldest families and inherited Highclere, their estate. She lived a long life as the Duchess of Carnarvon and with her considerable wealth, used her influences to provide medical aid during the Great War and beyond, both at Highclere and in London at their city home. This book is well written and interesting, sharing tidbits of English life and highlighting the workings of English society along with the impact of the Great War on travel and life in the countryside.
Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey: The Lost Legacy of Highclere Castle by
Fiona Carnarvon
My rating:
5 of 5 stars
For the real story behind Downtown Abbey, this book is a treasure. I enjoyed hearing the history of Almina's fortune, her love of Highclere, the Earl's adventures in Eqypt and the historical adventure through Victorian England. I especially liked Almina's love of nursing and how she applied her fortune to do good as much as she could for others.
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