Author(s): C Booth & C Haste

Non-Fiction

When your husband (or wife, in Denis Thatcher's case) becomes Prime Minister, and the doors of No. 10 close behind you, every aspect of life is suddenly changed. This was what Cherie Booth discovered. Intrigued, Cherie and social historian Cate Haste set out to explore the experience of previous political generations since the 1950s. Were the 'consorts' prepared for their role, or were they taken by surprise? How did they deal with life at No. 10? How intrusive was the press, and how has this changed over the years? How did they find a way to live their own lives and conduct a marriage and a family life? How far did they feel caught up in the great events and crises of the day? Based on personal interviews, diaries and letters, and the accounts of surviving spouses, families, close friends and colleagues, the story begins with three Conservatives, who moved with almost hereditary ease in the circles of high politics - Clarissa Eden, Dorothy Macmillan and Elizabeth Home.