Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey

Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey: The Lost Legacy of Highclere Castle by The Countess of Carnarvon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A very interesting read indeed, especially if you're fascinated with history like me. This story follows the charmed life of Lady Almina and her family, including her husband, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon - he of famed notoriety and co-discoverer of King Tut's tomb in the Valley of the Kings. Highclere Castle, the main home of the Carnavon's, sets on a 1,000 acre country estate in Berkshire and is used in the filming of the well-loved PBS series, Downton Abbey. Almina, illegitimate daughter of Sir Alfred de Rothschild, uses her immense dowry to update Highclere and during World War 1 - outfit it as a top notch hospital for the huge number of returning injured men. In the years following the war, Highclere returns to being a country home, but has suffered the loss of so many men who had found employment and shelter there. Almina raises a son and daughter, but loses her beloved husband at a young age. If you watch the Downton Abbey series, you'll find even enjoyment in this read.

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The World of Downton Abbey

The World of Downton Abbey by Jessica Fellowes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love the PBS series Downton Abbey? Season 3 has just ended and I'm entering late playing catch up with Season 1 and 2 on DVDs, trying to piece the relationships together. The World of Downton Abby by Jessica Fellowes has helped tremendously - I have such a great interest in English Country Homes anyway and this book is a treasure giving insight into the characters, the setting and time period, and the real Highclere Castle. Did you know the great house sits within a 1,000 acre estate in Berkshire and since 1679 has been home to the Earls of Carnavon? The turreted castle in an envelope built around a Georgian house, which contains the medieval monastery that first occupied the site. Although the beautiful setting wows me, it's the characters that make the show. Actors and actresses, producer and directors are quoted as per their thoughts on the filming of the series. Great book if you want to explore the world of Downton Abbey.

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