Bienvenida - The Making of a Modern Mistress (Hardcover)

This rags-to-riches life story of Countess Bienvenida Sokolow is the tale of the rise of a contemporary courtesan, who emerged triumphant from the poverty of the backstreets of Valencia to enjoy the five-star lifestyle of the upper echelons of British and American society. From Middle-Eastern sultans to a US ambassador and the UK Chief of Defence, Bienvenida practised the secret art of pleasing powerful men and supporting them in their ambitions. But there was a high emotional price to be paid for her success. Bienvenida gives insights into the wealthy drawing-rooms and bedrooms of London and Dallas, of Morocco and Bahrain. Her lovers cover a wide and influential political spectrum: Sir Anthony Buck, British MP and QC; the British Chief of Defence during the Gulf War, Sir Peter Harding; Ahmed Kano, one of the richest men in the Middle East; and Thomas Enders, former US ambassador to Spain and Cambodia and a high-ranking ex-CIA operative. She also tells: how, as Lady Buck, she made an exotic and chaotic impact on the British political scene, and rocked the British establishment to its core; and how she entertained the internationally rich and powerful. Finally, she presents her new life as a Countess, following her marriage to Count Nicholas Sokolow, and as media presenter and personality. Andrew Crofts is the co-author (with Zana Muhsen) of "Sold".