Books - LADY ALMINA And The REAL DOWNTON ABBEY

Lady Fiona, the current COUNTESS OF CARNARVON has written a marvelous account of LADY ALMINA, the 5th COUNTESS OF CARNARVON, and her life in Highclere Castle, Downton Abbey's alter ego.

I have just finished her book...devoured it I should say, and very helpful reading as I am watching Downton Abbey.

How many women with this kind of money would have used it with such generosity?

Oh, get the book and read it. It will only take you 4 hours, and then, as you watch Downton Abbey, it takes on yet another meaning because you are looking at the same furniture, paintings, draperies that Lady Almina lived with, and on our televisions, with their excellent resolution it is so easy to be swept away. Guilt free indulgence. So much is being written about this. Is it a clue to understanding the classes, the war, society?