Kingmaker, Pamela Harriman's Astonishing Life of Power, Seduction, and Intrigue By Sonia Purnell

KINGMAKER: The Untold Story of Pamela Churchill Harriman by Sonia Purnell is an electrifying biography that re-examines the life and legacy of one of the 20th century’s most influential yet unsung power players. Harriman, who passed away in 1997, was often dismissed in her obituaries as a mere socialite and courtesan, overshadowed by her glamorous life and romantic exploits. However, Purnell unveils a deeper story, revealing Harriman’s pivotal role in shaping political and diplomatic landscapes across two continents.

At just 20, Harriman, daughter-in-law to Winston Churchill, became a “secret weapon” during World War II, using her charm to sway American diplomats and military officials toward the British cause. Post-war, she was instrumental in elevating Fiat heir Gianni Agnelli and later revived a flagging U.S. Democratic Party, even playing a key role in propelling Bill Clinton to the presidency. Appointed Ambassador to France, she wielded her influence to aid in peace efforts in Bosnia.

Purnell’s biography, grounded in extensive research and new sources, reasserts Harriman’s critical role in history, not just as a political hostess, but as a strategic operator. Her connections spanned icons like the Kennedys, Truman Capote, and Frank Sinatra. With a novelistic narrative, KINGMAKER dives into a world of sex, politics, and fashion, placing Harriman back where she belongs: at the heart of 20th-century power. This biography restores her legacy as a formidable force who helped shape modern politics and diplomacy. 📚❤️