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Rose: My Life in Service to Lady Astor Paperback – December 27, 2011

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 2,321 ratings

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In 1928, Rosina Harrison arrived at the illustrious household of the Astor family to take up her new position as personal maid to the infamously temperamental Lady Nancy Astor, who sat in Parliament, entertained royalty, and traveled the world. "She's not a lady as you would understand a lady" was the butler's ominous warning. But what no one expected was that the iron-willed Lady Astor was about to meet her match in the no-nonsense, whip-smart girl from the country.

For 35 years, from the parties thrown for royalty and trips across the globe, to the air raids during WWII, Rose was by Lady Astor's side and behind the scenes, keeping everything running smoothly. In charge of everything from the clothes and furs to the baggage to the priceless diamond "sparklers," Rose was closer to Lady Astor than anyone else. In her decades of service she received one £5 raise, but she traveled the world in style and retired with a lifetime's worth of stories. Like Gosford Park and Downton Abbey, ROSE is a captivating insight into the great wealth 'upstairs' and the endless work 'downstairs', but it is also the story of an unlikely decades-long friendship that grew between Her Ladyship and her spirited Yorkshire maid.

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Editorial Reviews

Review

 "An extraordinary document, realistic, candid, and a rare look from the vantage point below stairs at a nostalgically romanticized world." — Los Angeles Times

 “A delectable assortment of tales and details about the habits of overprivileged Britishers and the people who served them…. Rosina is a feisty, keen-eyed, no-nonsense observer of caste, class, and character.  And when she matches wills and wits with Lady Astor—a Virginia Belle by birth, a Member of Parliament, and mistress of a dazzling fortune, and of Cliveden, one of England’s most stately homes—the result is not only a crackling comedy of manners, but a sense of the way it was, firsthand.” —
Newsweek

"Lady Astor's personal maid reveals her 'upstairs, downstairs' relationships with England's grandest family...Fascinating and deliciously readable!" 


The New York Times Book Review

About the Author

Rosina Harrison (1899-1989) served as Lady Nancy Astor's personal maid for over thirty-five years and was the author of two books.

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Penguin Publishing Group; Reprint edition (December 27, 2011)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 354 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0143120867
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0143120865
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 8.8 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.06 x 0.83 x 7.75 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 2,321 ratings

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Customer reviews

4.2 out of 5 stars
2,321 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book engaging and entertaining. They appreciate the insightful perspective and first-hand writing style. The narrative is straightforward and dignified, with a humorous tone. Readers enjoy the detailed account of Lady Astor and her family.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

130 customers mention "Readability"130 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the book. They find it interesting and entertaining, offering a true perspective of life in service.

"...This book was so enjoyable because it was full of such anecdotes and quiet observations. There is nothing strident in tone...." Read more

"...I really enjoyed reading this book and note the effect of the Yorkshire personality on the American born English parliamentarian...." Read more

"This book was a delight. I love Rose and the simple way she describes her life with the Astors...." Read more

"...Rose's tale moves along at a rapid pace, humorous, opinionated and entertaining...." Read more

120 customers mention "Insight"114 positive6 negative

Customers appreciate the book's insights into the life of a lady's maid. They find it informative and entertaining, with anecdotes about interesting rituals and seasonal moves. Readers describe it as a sweet story of a world that no longer exists.

"...This book was so enjoyable because it was full of such anecdotes and quiet observations. There is nothing strident in tone...." Read more

"A very human story, full of interest about Lady Astor, an American, and the first female member of parliament in Britain and her maid...." Read more

"...She depicts everyone fairly, honestly, in a loving but detached way...." Read more

"...This is and interesting book written from the human angle of a girl given the 'opportunity' to live a life of 'service'...." Read more

70 customers mention "Writing quality"57 positive13 negative

Customers find the book well-written with candor and humor. They appreciate the author's insight and find it a quick, interesting read that details political tensions in an understated way.

"...Rose's tale moves along at a rapid pace, humorous, opinionated and entertaining...." Read more

"...Came to admire the author who is quite good at expressing herself. Finished the book in two days, so I guess I must have enjoyed it...." Read more

"...Rose writes with clarity and candor and never seems to lose sight of herself." Read more

"...She hints at political tensions and describes in great detail in an understated way what it is like to have your house bombed in a German air raid..." Read more

37 customers mention "Narrative style"28 positive9 negative

Customers find the narrative style engaging and interesting. They appreciate the straightforward, dignified writing style. The story is about Rose's life, not those of the Astors. Readers value the thoughtful and touching portrayal of Rose's humble beginnings and her journey to success. The story moves along without getting bogged down in boring details.

"...It's a fascinating narrative, but especially Rose's relationship with Lady Astor...." Read more

"...village, for anyone able to serve the local aristocrat, a marvellous start in life...." Read more

"...Of the two women, Rose comes across as a more likable and admirable person...." Read more

"This tale of Lady Astor's longtime personal maid is a beautiful representation of devotion between two women who, while members of different social..." Read more

28 customers mention "Interest"28 positive0 negative

Customers find the book interesting. They enjoy reading about Lady Astor and her family. The story is described as a sweet tale of a determined young woman who spent her life in service. It provides an interesting portrayal of people in service to the wealthy in England, including daily responsibilities and how the author felt about them.

"...much a 'dry read' as a memoir told with the politesse and reserve of an English Woman. It could have been a juicy gossipy book, and it is not...." Read more

"...Miss Harrison had a fascinating life as lady's maid and was able to fulfil her dreams to travel the world and meet some of the world's most..." Read more

"...I was impressed by Harrison's plainspoken but shrewd and insightful analysis of both "Upstairs" and "Downstairs" life...." Read more

"...Came to admire the author who is quite good at expressing herself. Finished the book in two days, so I guess I must have enjoyed it...." Read more

19 customers mention "Humor"16 positive3 negative

Customers enjoy the book's humor. They find it entertaining, well-written, and humorous. The bantering and respect for others are appreciated. Overall, readers describe the book as cheerful, interesting, and well-crafted.

"...It's not so much a 'dry read' as a memoir told with the politesse and reserve of an English Woman...." Read more

"...Rose's tale moves along at a rapid pace, humorous, opinionated and entertaining...." Read more

"...But it was told with such warmth, humor, and general good storytelling ability, it really kept my interest...." Read more

"...typical of what one would expect with Rose's schooling, but the content is hilarious...." Read more

17 customers mention "Look"17 positive0 negative

Customers find the book interesting and refreshing. They appreciate the author's portrayal of two unique women and a lifestyle long gone. The book provides a good picture of Britain's upper class in years past, with vivid memories and fair depictions of everyone.

"...She depicts everyone fairly, honestly, in a loving but detached way...." Read more

"...A very good read. Not a drama, but a real picture of the complicated relationship between the haves and those who support their glittery and..." Read more

"...For all of the reasons above, I can't praise this book enough for the fresh look it provides on a subject one might consider already done to death." Read more

"...famous, but in addition to that I got to look into the live of a very modern woman. Rose is a perfect example of a strong and independent person...." Read more

15 customers mention "Service life"15 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's portrayal of service life. They find it an insightful look at the author's devotion and compassion for others. The book serves as an inspirational guide to follow your dreams and make your calling clear.

"...Astor could be unkind, spoiled and selfish, she could also be uncommonly compassionate, generous, and thoughtful -- particularly in times of trouble..." Read more

"...woman who was both penny-pinching and generous, spiteful and caring, and the woman who probably knew her better than anybody else." Read more

"...An entertaining and a learning experience. I would have given it 4.5 stars if there was a way to do this...." Read more

"...through the eyes of a perceptive, honest, ingenious, loyal, loving Servant - in the very best sense - to a Lady - in the very worst sense - who at..." Read more

Excellent read!
5 out of 5 stars
Excellent read!
An amazingly told story of a servants life. Just as if you’re sitting in a room listening to her tell it. Fantastic! A must read!
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on September 7, 2013
    I so enjoyed reading this book, and I'm not a fan of 'Downton Abbey.'

    If you are a lover of 'Upstairs Downstairs' 'Downton Abbey' stories, you will love this book. It's not so much a 'dry read' as a memoir told with the politesse and reserve of an English Woman. It could have been a juicy gossipy book, and it is not. It could have been a complaint about the arrogance of the aristocracy and it is not.

    There is one anecdote to illustrate this:

    The author is traveling with her mistress in a car, with her mistress driving recklessly. Ms. Harrison has stated that the speed and driving habits of this particular employer (NOT Mrs. Astor) made her nervous. However, servants travel and accompany whomever they must. The employer sideswipes another expensive car and - true to form - keeps on going, not stopping to see if anyone was hurt or damage done. In fact, she drove the other car off the road, into a ditch.

    Ms. Harrison says to her Ladyship, 'I think you should go back. The people did see you.' Reluctantly, her Ladyship turns the car around and goes back to see what the damage was. In fact, she knows the occupants of the other car. The car was damaged, the occupants, also of the aristocracy, were not injured and they discuss the matter with her and no one is sued or arrested. They had recognized her car. Ms. Harrison was right to speak up. Correcting your employer has to be done tactfully!

    This book was so enjoyable because it was full of such anecdotes and quiet observations. There is nothing strident in tone. At most, the author only makes one fairly damning comment about Lady Astor - that she rarely, if ever, showed appreciation or thanked a servant, no matter how kind or devoted. And yet... there were one or two moments of sincere emotion that, for that reason, stand out.
    14 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on October 22, 2012
    A very human story, full of interest about Lady Astor, an American, and the first female member of parliament in Britain and her maid. The book also brings to light the differences between English and American women of that generation. This book quietly reveals that no woman is a hero to her servant. Miss Harrison had a fascinating life as lady's maid and was able to fulfil her dreams to travel the world and meet some of the world's most interesting people. Was fascinating to learn the ruses that resulted in first class travel for the important servants. I really enjoyed reading this book and note the effect of the Yorkshire personality on the American born English parliamentarian. Recommended to all who enjoy English period drama - and this a true history.
  • Reviewed in the United States on March 13, 2016
    This book was a delight. I love Rose and the simple way she describes her life with the Astors. She depicts everyone fairly, honestly, in a loving but detached way. There aren't any scandals here, except distant references to a couple incidents notorious back in the day.

    It's a fascinating narrative, but especially Rose's relationship with Lady Astor. In the beginning, when Lady Astor was difficult or rude or acting out, Rose ignored it -- but it wore on her. One day, when she was alone and felt down, she had a kind of spiritual experience and became filled with wellbeing, suddenly knowing she needed to respond to Lady Astor in kind. From that moment on, and for the 35 years they were together, they got along just dandy. When Lady Astor acted out, Rose responded in a spirited fashion. She wouldn't take any of her nonsense and that's actually the way Lady Astor liked it. Lord Astor used to pull up his chair near her room if he heard the two of them going at it. He found it entertaining, and indeed, the conversations and situations between Lady Astor and Rose were often entertaining.

    Though Lady Astor could be unkind, spoiled and selfish, she could also be uncommonly compassionate, generous, and thoughtful -- particularly in times of trouble, such as WWII.

    It seemed to me Lady Astor loved Rose very much. I'm so glad they had a life together. They did each other good.
    26 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on July 19, 2013
    This probably shows a huge flaw in my character, but since everyone Rose worked for is long dead, I guess I was hoping for more "juice," but got, instead, exhaustive and boring detail about the minutiae of life in service to the Astors. Maybe Rose's sense of loyalty and respect for her late employer(s) held her back, or maybe her editor didn't have the backbone to deal with the Astors' heirs, but the story is just dull, at the end of the day, although it gives a nice look into the privileged life of the moneyed upper class in Britain in an easier, earlier time.
    3 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

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  • Amazon Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Interesting and authentic
    Reviewed in India on August 9, 2022
    A true reflection of the times..interesting to read
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    Amazon Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Interesting and authentic
    Reviewed in India on August 9, 2022
    A true reflection of the times..interesting to read
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  • Red Rosie
    5.0 out of 5 stars Definitely not Downton Abbey
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on November 13, 2019
    This is a fascinating piece of social history; as lady's maid to Nancy Astor, the first female MP, Rose witnessed a life of unimaginable wealth, luxury and power, while as a working class woman, albeit one of relatively high status, she was totally dependent on the whims and good humour of her imperious mistress, and paid a pittance for the long hours she worked, constantly at Lady Astor's beck and call. They clearly developed a respect and affection for each other, and Rose was a feisty woman who learned to stand up for herself, but nevertheless I was often reminded of Stevens, the butler in Ishiguro's Remains of the Day, and his unwavering respect for an aristocratic world where he would never be accepted as an equal. This whole series by Tom Quinn has been a joy to read, and a powerful reminder of how the servant class was oppressed and exploited until relatively recently - a very far cry indeed from the twee cliches of Downtown Abbey and Upstairs Downstairs.
  • Lise Sirois
    4.0 out of 5 stars Very interesting
    Reviewed in Canada on January 7, 2014
    Since I'M a fan of Downton abbey, I read this book with pleasure, it's sometimes funny and the description of her life as a lady's maid are very interesting. The "companionship" with her lady is quite peculiar since Rose isn't shy of saying what she thinks.
  • Bandoneon
    3.0 out of 5 stars Ok
    Reviewed in Spain on April 15, 2015
    The book is OK, only it shows that it's written by a ghost writer too much, Pitty, I would have prefered to read her own voice.
  • Bücherwurm
    5.0 out of 5 stars Sehr gute Quelle
    Reviewed in Germany on December 2, 2014
    Rosna Harrisons Erinnerungen über ihre Zeit als Zofe bei Nancy Astor sind sowohl als historische Quelle als auch als Lesegenuss sehr zu empfehlen. Authentische Berichte über die Lebens- und Arbeitsbedingungen von Dienstboten gibt es ja leider nur wenige, umso wichtiger sind jene, die veröffentlicht werden.
    Rosina Harrison beginnt ihre Memoiren mit der Schilderung ihrer ärmlichen Kindheit, die sehr gut das harte Leben der Arbeiterschicht erahnen lassen. Sie erzählt ohne Sentimentalität, was ihren Bericht nur umso erschütternder gestaltet.
    Ihr Eintritt in die Welt der Upperclass - wenn auch nur als Zofe - illustriert den gewaltigen Unterschied der zwischen "upstairs" und "downstairs" herrschte. Durch ihre detaillierten Schilderungen des hochherrschaftlichen Haushalts der Astors entsteht sofort ein Bild über das vielschichte Leben dieser Schicksalsgemeinschaft, die sich unter einem Dach zusammengefunden hatte.
    Man erfährt sowohl von den schönen wir auch gesellschaftlich mühsamen Seiten des Leben einer aristokratischen Lady als auch vom Alltag der Dienstboten.
    Wer sich für das "echte "Leben hinter den Mauern von englischen Schlössern interessiert - und zwar von ganz oben bis ganz unten, für den ist "The Lady's Maid" absolut empfehlenswert.
    Aber auch wenn man weniger am historischen Aspekt interessiert ist sondern eher auf einen schönen Erzählstil achtet, ist man mit diesem Buch hervorragened bedient- es vereint beide exzellent!