Deze serie duikt in de echte levens en verhalen van de vrouwen die de grandioze landgoederen inspireerden en bewoonden, welke de achtergrond vormden voor een geliefd drama. Het verkent hun moed, hun sociale status en de impact die zij hadden op hun families en hun tijdperken, met name tijdens de turbulente periode rond de Eerste Wereldoorlog. De verhalen contrasteren de pracht van het aristocratische leven met de harde realiteit van de oorlog, en portretteren opmerkelijke vrouwen die uitdagingen met gratie en vastberadenheid tegemoet traden. Lezers kunnen zich onderdompelen in een fascinerende geschiedenis en de ware dames achter de iconische locaties ontdekken.
This is the remarkable story of a lost time. But Highclere remains and in this book, Fiona weaves Lady Almina's journey into the heritage and history of one of England's most exquisite Victorian castles.
Highclere Castle welcomes a new resident, Catherine Wendell, the daughter-in-law of Lady Almina, an American beauty from a prominent family. Catherine first met Lord Porchester (Porchey) in Gibraltar, and their immediate attraction led to marriage in 1922. Following the unexpected death of the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, they moved into the castle, facing financial struggles and the burden of death duties. To alleviate their situation, they auctioned off cherished artworks, including pieces by Leonardo da Vinci and Reynolds, and even the family pearls. By 1926, they found stability and began hosting events at Highclere, where Catherine was beloved by staff and family alike. However, by 1936, their marriage faced challenges, leading Catherine to bravely end it. Porchey quickly sought a new relationship, but his fiancée left him for a Hollywood mogul. Meanwhile, Catherine fell in love again and remarried in 1938. As World War II began, Porchey married actress Tilly Losch, while Catherine's new husband joined the navy. Highclere transformed into a refuge for evacuee children and soldiers. Both Catherine and Porchey faced the stress of wartime separation, with their son Henry also serving. Drawing from the castle's archives, the Countess of Carnarvon presents a modern tale set against the backdrop of this iconic estate, highlighting the lives of both the aristocracy and the dedicated staff who kept the castle thriving.