The Mitford Girls

The true story behind the gaiety and frivolity of the six Mitford daughters - and the facts are as sensational as a novel.

There is Nancy, whose bright social existence masked a doomed obsessional love, which soured her success; Pam, a countrywoman maried to one of the best brains in Europe; Diana, an iconic beauty, who was already married when, at 22, she fell in love with Oswald Moseley, leader of the British fascists; Unity, who, romantically in love with Hitler, became a member of his inner circle before shooting herself in the temple when World War II was declared; Jessica, the family rebel, who declared herself a Communist in the schoolroom; and the youngest sister, Debo, who became the Duchess of Devonshire.

Their extraordinary lives are revealed by the author, who had exclusive access to the Mitford archives.