"For me, this summer's standout holiday recommendation is Kingmaker: Pamela Harriman’s Astonishing Life of Power, Seduction and Intrigue by Sonia Purnell", writes Charlotte Heath-Bullock.
"A gripping, meticulously researched biography, it redefines the story of Harriman-Churchill, Winston Churchill’s daughter-in-law turned high-stakes diplomatic operator. Spanning three continents, Purnell charts her evolution from a mistreated aristocratic debutante to Britain’s WWII “bedroom spy”; later a titan of Washington DC fundraising; and finally, the US Ambassador to France - all delivered with verve and novelistic flair.
"Purnell smartly captures Harriman-Churchill's strategic use of charm and social skill to influence global affairs, from softening American opinion in WWII to shaping Democratic politics and navigating Cold War détente. It’s immersive, surprising and ideal for fans of female-driven power dynamics and history.
"And for lovers of tangible glamour, Bentley & Skinner is offering for sale Harriman-Churchill’s iconic David Webb ruby-and-diamond earrings, made around 1970, the very pair that “saw it all” during her diplomatic forays.
"Featured by Tatler the 12-carat rubies are each surrounded by 16 baguette-cut diamonds weighing over seven-carats, all mounted in platinum. David Webb’s jewellery made waves in mid-century American society. Worn by the most fashionable women of the time, his creations adorned Elizabeth Taylor, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Barbara Streisand. Harriman Churchill wore them at the 1983 Democratic congressional fundraiser and the colourful and effervescent design reflects the life of their owner."
