The author clearly put a great deal of time into researching Bell's life, and yet completely diminished her accomplishments by couching her story in gossip and speculation. Yes, a number of Bell's opportunities arose because of her privileged background, but somehow this disjointed narrative's focus on her wardrobe, home decor, and social life misses the mark in its failure to connect her achievements to their context in a meaningful way. Only rarely do I contemplate not finishing a book, no matter how tedious I find it, so I convinced myself to stay with this one in the hopes that it would gain some focus as it progressed towards Bell's role in establishing the Iraqi state. Even then the author seemed to dwell more on interpersonal drama rather than demonstrating a genuine understanding of regional politics and culture.

Such a fascinating and intelligent woman in her time or ours certainly deserved better. A disappointment...