Description
Book SynopsisGertrude Tennant's life was remarkable for its length (1819-1918), but even more so for the influence she achieved as an unsurpassed London hostess. This title presents her life, placing her not only at the heart of a multi-generational, matriarchal family epic but also at centre of European social and literary life for the best part of a century.
Trade Review"David Waller's biography of Gertrude Tennant forces us to rework our notions of haute-bourgeois dowagers: Gertrude's life was one of rich variety, from friendship with Flaubert in youth to Oscar Wilde and Henry James in later years. David Waller, in this richly rewarding picture of late Victorian society, paints a portrait of a woman with appeal and grace."—Judith Flanders, author of
Consuming Passions"Alive to the perils and passions of the era, this book breathes fresh life into the supposedly corsetted and cossetted world of nineteenth-century literary high society." - Ian Kelly, author of Beau Brummell and the Sunday Times Biography of the Year 2008, Casanova
"David Waller has written an engaging biography about the marvellous Gertrude Tennant. We all need someone like Gertrude in our lives; failing that, having her for a quiet hour or two is a delicious treat." - Amanda Foreman
"Thoroughly engaging and extremely well written. The Magnificent Mrs Tennant is not only the story of a fascinating woman's rise through intelligent Victorian Society, but an eye-opening portrait of life amongst the great men of the day." - Frances Osborne, author of The Bolter
"How did the self-educated daughter of a penniless, half-pay naval officer become one of Victorian England's great hostesses? This very unusual and remarkably engrossing story is impressively researched and vividly told." - Tim Jeal, author of Stanley
