The Mitford Girls

The Mitford Girls by Mary S. Lovell is an enthralling biography that unveils the remarkable lives of the six Mitford sisters, whose tales are as colourful and dramatic as any fictional saga. Set against the backdrop of 20th-century Europe, this book delves into the highs and lows of an aristocratic family whose experiences range from high society glamour to political extremism, heartbreak, and enduring love.

Nancy Mitford, the eldest, charmed society with her wit and literary talent but struggled with an unrequited love that cast a shadow over her achievements. Pam, the second sister, embraced a more serene, rural life, marrying Derek Jackson, a man regarded as one of Europe’s greatest intellectuals. Diana, celebrated for her stunning beauty, controversially left her first husband for Oswald Mosley, the charismatic leader of the British Union of Fascists, at the tender age of twenty-two.

Unity Mitford’s infatuation with Adolf Hitler saw her become a confidante within his inner circle, a surreal connection that culminated in tragedy when she attempted to take her own life upon the outbreak of World War II. Jessica, ever the family’s radical, rejected her upbringing to become a passionate Communist, later moving to America and becoming a celebrated investigative journalist. Finally, there is Debo, who managed to navigate the whirlwind of her family’s notoriety to become a respected Duchess of Devonshire, transforming Chatsworth House into a highly successful estate.

Author Mary S. Lovell masterfully combines meticulous research with captivating storytelling, having been granted unparalleled access to the Mitford family archives. The result is a vivid, nuanced portrait of the six sisters whose lives were anything but ordinary. Each sister's story is chronicled with empathy and insight, revealing the complex interplay between their public personas and private struggles.

The Mitford Girls offers readers a window into a bygone era marked by significant historical events, cultural shifts, and the perennial search for identity and purpose. It is a must-read for anyone interested in biography, history, or the fascinating dynamics of one of the most famous families of the 20th century.