Queen Bees

Entertaining biographies of 6 high society British hostesses between the wars. All these ladies knew and entertained each other, the Royal Families from King George V and Queen Mary through George VI and the Queen Mother, and political figures such as Winston Churchill and other Prime Ministers. The author introduces you to their backgrounds, husbands and their mistresses, and homes. A real page-turner about how the other half lived and loved with a few illustrations. Strongly recommended if you are interested in this sort of history not covered so well till now.

Very readable group biography of the wealthy socialites who doted on the artists and designers of pre-World War II England.

This book meanders all over the place. I had no idea who or what the people were doing.I did not bother to read to the end as I was bored wittless

I’ve always found this period of history fascinating. I know that some will abhor the apparent disregard for others, less fortunate and the sheer extravagance of these ladies but the examination of their lives and the manner by which they became “Queen Bees” was absorbing. Consideration of this book needs to include an understanding of society at that time. Don’t make the mistake of transferring this account into the mores of the 21st century. These women fought their own, unique battles and achieved a great deal through judicious use of their rank and privilege. It is not always the case that matters worked out for them and indeed in the majority of cases their dotage became a period of loss and sadness. The author contrives to provide a picture of these women who dominated British society and ensures that contrasts and comparisons are highlighted to good effect. I enjoyed this account and would recommend it to those interested in society at the end of the 19th and at the beginning of the 20th century.

I enjoy slices of social history. This is an informed and entertaining account of the lives of six ‘upper class’ women during the years between WW1and WW2. Britain was very different; class divisions and social divides were strong. Women had an emerging role as influencers following their changed status as workers in the First World War, The extent to which the women featured in this biopic actually influenced or changed society is open fir debate. By and large, they enjoyed throwing parties and enjoying themselves,Some were promiscuous and attempted to use their position to promote their particular cause. The majority were sympathetic to Hitler, so their motives may be questionable. They weren’t entirely selfless and working for the greater good and the author doesn’t quite convince that they brought about huge social change.However, they’re a fascinating bunch and this book is filled with insight and gossip about a different way of life and I enjoyed it.

This is such an interesting book, providing insight into the lives and lifestyles of half a dozen women living in the early 20th century. A real eye-opener, describing the intrigues, the liaisons and the conniving which went on. It is an entertaining read - and will bring new meaning to visits to houses such as Polesden Lacy and Cliveden.

I usually enjoy books of this type and, over the years, have discovered some real gems. Unfortunately this wasn’t one of them. I didn’t enjoy it at all and I found the literary style and presentation somewhat flawed.

Entertaining and some new tit-bits. Only problem was bad editing, so there were repetitions that were pretty glaring. But still enjoyed it