Lady Catherine, The Earl, and the Real Downton Abbey by the Countess of Carnavon

This is a captivating tale about the beautiful Lady Catherine, who seemed to 'float' up the stairs in her lovely silk lingerie when she hurried to see her children.  This book is also much easier to read than the one about Lady Catherine's mother-in-law Almina, because it is better-written.

Lady Catherine seemed to have a charmed life after she married the Earl - she became the chatelaine of Highclere after her husband's father suddenly died.  Even though the couple was forced to sell many possessions to pay heavy death duties, they had a wonderful social life and mixed with royalty.  (Prince George was a particular favourite).  They also kept lots of servants, so in some ways, this is like a story from the nineteenth century instead of the twentieth.

But Lady Catherine led a troubled life because the Earl was often away, and his philandering wore her down. She turned to alcohol and finally had a nervous collapse.  She managed to pick herself up, however, divorce the Earl and have a happier life.  This is probably the most interesting part of the book.

Anyone who loves "Downton Abbey" will certainly enjoy this book!