Summary of The Countess of Carnarvon's Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey

Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book. Sample Book Insights: #1 The wedding of Almina Wombwell, a 19-year-old society bride, was unusual. She was marrying the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, who was getting married on his 29th birthday. His family and title were distinguished, and he was charming. #2 Almina had known her husband for nearly 18 months before the wedding. They had never spent any time alone, but had met on several occasions at social gatherings. It was not enough time for Almina to realize that the frock coat the Earl had been persuaded to wear on his wedding day was quite different from his usual casual style. #3 Almina’s marriage to the Earl of Carnarvon was not entirely trouble-free. Her mother, Marie Wombwell, had been a married woman, though estranged from her husband when she met Sir Alfred. Sir Alfred was a leading figure in public life, and he delighted in spending the family fortune on a lavish lifestyle. #4 The wedding was held at the Mayfair mansion of the 5th Earl of Carnarvon. It was a stately house, designed by Robert Adam, and built in 1763. The entrance hall was filled with hydrangeas, and each room was themed with different flowers.