Ms. Barstow wrties an authoritative, well-researched handbook that is a must-have for anyone interested in high-society Victorian and Edwardian England. She details every aspect of the country house party- from the different types of parties to the habits of those attending them to the types of houses and the servants who ran them. It's an excellent resource for those even mildly interested in the subject.

Though it's rich with information, I found it very easy to read, unlike other books on this subject. Ms. Barstow interspersed the text with rare pictures that really bring to life the words on the page.

This is one of my most treasured books. Anyone that is passionate about art and horses will thoroughly enjoy having this book in their library. The artwork is predominantly watercolour sketches accompanied with the writings of a young Englishwoman. I highly recommend this book; buy it and enjoy it, over and over again.