Kingmaker: Pamela Harriman's Astonishing Life of Power, Seduction, and Intrigue

Sonia Purnell
61 pages2-hour read
Nonfiction
Biography
Adult
Published in 2024

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Book Brief

Sonia Purnell

Kingmaker

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2024
Book Details
Pages

528

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Genre
Biography

•

History
Period
World War II
Setting

England • 20th century

Theme
Femininity

•

Gender Identity

•

Sexual Identity
Topic
European History

•

US History

•

Gender & Feminism
First Publication Year

2024

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Kingmaker by Sonia Purnell is a biography that explores the life and influence of Edwin Carnegie, a historical figure known for his pivotal role in political strategy and advisory. The book delves into Carnegie's methods, personal sacrifices, and contributions to shaping key political landscapes, providing insights into his complex persona and lasting impact on political history.

Informative

Inspirational

Suspenseful

Challenging

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.3

9,834 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Kingmaker by Sonia Purnell receives praise for its thorough research and engaging narrative style, making complex historical events accessible. Critics commend Purnell's in-depth character analysis and vivid storytelling. However, some note a dense structure that may overwhelm casual readers. Overall, it's a compelling read for those interested in political history.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Kingmaker?

Readers fascinated by political biographies, particularly those spotlighting influential women, will relish Kingmaker by Sonia Purnell. Comparable to works like The Women Who Made New York by Julie Scelfo or Clementine: The Life of Mrs. Winston Churchill by Sonia Purnell, this book unveils the power behind significant political figures.

4.3

9,834 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Key Figures

The central figure known for her beauty, intelligence, and political acumen, Pamela navigated elite circles and wielded influence through her roles as an informant, fundraiser, and diplomat, eventually serving as the US ambassador to France.

Pamela's only son, born during the Blitz, who grew up largely without his mother's attention; he had a complicated relationship with her and eventually became a Member of Parliament.

Pamela's first husband and son of Winston Churchill, noted for his boorish behavior and troubled marriage to Pamela amidst his tumultuous personal and political life.

An American statesman and heir who had both a professional and personal relationship with Pamela, culminating in their marriage in the 1970s.

An heir to the Fiat fortune and Pamela's lover in the 1950s, known for his glamorous and fast-paced lifestyle.

A Broadway producer and Pamela's second husband, whose marriage to Pamela involved her proactive support of his career despite his declining health.

Book Details
Pages

528

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Genre
Biography

•

History
Period
World War II
Setting

England • 20th century

Theme
Femininity

•

Gender Identity

•

Sexual Identity
Topic
European History

•

US History

•

Gender & Feminism
First Publication Year

2024

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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