Kelly Counts

One of my favourite books of the year!! Lady Glenconner has certainly led quite an extraordinary life. Her memoir reveals a fascinating look in to what it meas to be a lady-in-waiting, and provides unique insights in to the personalities of Princess Margaret, Lord Glenconner, and other members of the aristocracy. She writes in a way that is not salicious or tabloid-like, but continuously keeps the reader wanting more. A "glass half-full" perspective, but by no means an "all is rosy" picture. She delves in to the heart-wrenching, tragic events she has faced, and provides an honest account of the imperfections in those closest to her, as well as herself. My eyes became very tired one evening, but I was so engrossed, I switched over to the audiobook so I could continue. Upon hearing Lady Glenconner's voice, there was no going back to the text-only version. Her memoir immediately took on an even more fascinating dimension. The narration is superb. Often narrators, even with their own memoir, sound like they are just reading words off the paper. Not so with Lady Glenconner. Was left with that "back to reality now" feeling when finally reached the end of her memoir. After seeing Lady Glenconner in recent interviews, one would be hard pressed to believe she is 88 years (young). Still a very beautiful woman, with a clear excitement about life still to be lived, a keen sense of humour, and a splash of mischievousness, hope to hear much more from Lady Glenconner. In an era of increased transparency (and who doesn't want to know more about the true inner circle of the British aristocracy?!), think a Lady Glenconner podcast would be a huge hit! Given her social connections, the list of potential guests is limitless. She has the credibility and personality to be the perfect podcast host. She could also reach a whole new group of people through this medium. Not just a focus on what happens behind castle/estate walls (although we do want some of that!), but discussions about charities and projects that may not get as much publicity otherwise. Since a child, I have been an avid reader. No telling how many books line my shelves at home, or how many books I have checked out of local/online libraries over the years. This is the first time I have ever felt compelled to write a review. Thank you Lady Glenconner for writing one of those rare books you can not put down! From a Canadian ex-pat in Texas....