Sphinx: The Life of Gladys Deacon - Duchess of Marlborough

Gladys Deacon was a fascinating and enigmatic woman who captivated the Belle Epoque literary and artistic circles. Born in Paris to American parents in 1881, she emerged from a traumatic childhood to inspire great literary and artistic names. In 1921, she married the 9th Duke of Marlborough, but life at Blenheim was not successful. She became a recluse and was discovered by Hugo Vickers in a psycho-geriatric ward. Vickers has rewritten and revised his original biography, The Sphinx, to unmask the truth of her mysterious life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 21 January 2021
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

Gladys Deacon, a captivating and enigmatic figure of her time, emerged from a tumultuous childhood to captivate and inspire some of the greatest literary and artistic names of the Belle Epoque. Born in Paris in 1881 to American parents, she overcame personal tragedy when her father shot her mother's lover dead when she was just eleven. Despite this adversity, Gladys's beauty, intelligence, goodness, and charm shone through, attracting the attention of renowned figures such as Marcel Proust, who described her as "a girl with such beauty, such magnificent intelligence, such goodness, and charm."

Her remarkable life journey saw her befriend artists like Rodin, Monet, Boldini, and Epstein, who created stunning portraits and sculptures of her. She also captivated the hearts of writers like William Somerset Maugham, who wrote of her, "She was the most beautiful and brilliant woman of her time."

Hugo Vickers' biography, "Gladys: The Life and Death of a Belle Epoque Superstar," delves into the extraordinary and tragic life of Gladys Deacon, providing a detailed account of her achievements, relationships, and untimely demise. The book offers a captivating glimpse into the glamorous world of the Belle Epoque and sheds light on the complexities and challenges faced by women in a male-dominated society.

Vickers' meticulous research and storytelling skills bring Gladys's life to life, capturing her beauty, intelligence, and resilience. The book is filled with anecdotes and personal insights, providing a deeper understanding of the woman behind the public persona.

"Gladys: The Life and Death of a Belle Epoque Superstar" has received critical acclaim, with reviewers praising Vickers' ability to bring the past to life and his skillful storytelling. The book has been shortlisted for numerous awards, including the Times Best Biography Audiobook of the Year 2021, highlighting its excellence in the genre.

In conclusion, Gladys Deacon's life was an extraordinary and tragic tale, filled with beauty, intelligence, and resilience. Hugo Vickers' biography provides a captivating and insightful account of her life, offering a deeper understanding of the Belle Epoque and the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated society. "Gladys: The Life and Death of a Belle Epoque Superstar" is a must-read for anyone interested in history, art, and the fascinating lives of remarkable individuals.

Weight: 304g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 45 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529390742