Emily Countess Cowper 1781-1869 was a leading Regency socialite who became a Victorian powerbroker. She was the sister of one prime minister, her brother Lord Melbourne, and the lover and wife of another prime minister Lord Palmerston. Her life resembled real-life Bridgerton – she even inspired the character Cressida Cowper in the Netflix series. But Emily’s petticoats and parties belied a steely determination. Yearning for power beyond the ballroom, she used her political genius to influence national issues. Acting as chief counsel, speechwriter, press oficer and tireless schemer for the Whig cause – from women’s rights to the eradication of slavery. By proxy she became one of the most powerful women in England. Her story has never been told – until now.

Based on the diaries and letters of Emily, her family and friends, this non-fiction book The Countess is co-written by a mother and daughter team, Jehanne Wake & Katie Wake. It unveils the life of an exceptional woman and offers a new insight into the times in which she lived.