Duchess Countess

The book "The Duchess of Kingston: A Life of Elizabeth Chudleigh, Duchess of Kingston, Countess of Bristol" is a captivating biography that delves into the life of Elizabeth Chudleigh, a controversial figure in 18th-century England. Despite facing a trial for bigamy, Elizabeth refused to bow to societal expectations and embarked on a Grand Tour of Europe, where she gained fame and admiration. Catherine Ostler's book explores Elizabeth's complex personality and her struggle to overcome personal tragedy and loss, offering a fresh perspective on this fascinating woman.

Format: Hardback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2021
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

A captivating and captivating book that has been acclaimed as a "Spectator Book of the Year," a "Times Book of the Year," a "Telegraph Book of the Year," a "Vogue Book of the Year," and many more! This remarkable work by Catherine Ostler takes readers on a thrilling journey through the life of Elizabeth Chudleigh, Duchess of Kingston, Countess of Bristol, a woman who defied societal expectations and captivated the hearts of her contemporaries.

Born into a wealthy and influential family, Elizabeth's life was filled with scandal, intrigue, and adventure. She married twice, first to a young heir to an earldom, and then to a Duke, both of whom were much older than her. Her love for diamonds and her electrifying appearance at a masquerade ball in a diaphanous dress only added to her allure.

However, Elizabeth's story was not without its challenges. She faced personal tragedy and loss, which deeply affected her and shaped her character. Despite this, she refused to be defined by society's expectations and embarked on a Grand Tour of Europe, where she was welcomed by the Pope and Catherine the Great.

As maid of honor to Augusta, Princess of Wales, Elizabeth lived a life of luxury and privilege, but her exploits delighted and scandalized the press and the people. She made headlines, and was a constant feature in penny prints and gossip columns. Writers were intrigued by her, and Thackeray drew on Elizabeth as inspiration for his calculating, alluring Becky Sharp.

But Elizabeth's behavior was often depicted as attention-seeking and manipulative, hiding a more complex tale of a woman who fought to overcome personal tragedy and loss. Catherine Ostler's brilliant biography seeks to understand and reappraise Elizabeth, a woman who refused to be defined by societal expectations and who left a lasting legacy on the world.

Through meticulous research and a fresh perspective, Ostler brings Elizabeth's story to life in a way that is both captivating and evocative. She delves into the details of her life, from her marriages to her friendships, her passions, and her struggles. Ostler also sheds light on the social and political context of the time, which shaped Elizabeth's life and career.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Elizabeth's life was her determination to live life on her terms. She refused to be dictated to by societal norms or her husbands' desires. Instead, she pursued her passions and interests, and she became a respected figure in her own right.

Elizabeth's love for diamonds and her desire for luxury were not without controversy, but they also reflected her sense of self and her desire to be seen as a powerful and influential woman. She was a trailblazer in her own right, and her life and career continue to inspire and influence women today.

In conclusion, Catherine Ostler's "The Duchess: A Biography of Elizabeth Chudleigh, Duchess of Kingston, Countess of Bristol" is a must-read for anyone who is interested in history, women's history, or just a captivating story of a woman who refused to be defined by societal expectations. This book is a testament to Elizabeth's resilience, her determination, and her ability to live life on her terms. It is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can all find our own path and make a lasting impact on the world.

Weight: 688g
Dimension: 164 x 244 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781471172564