About the Book & Author:

*Please note copies are no longer signed

Christopher Balfour has written a sparkling memoir: gossipy, funny and riveting. Born into a Scottish merchant family, he enjoyed an idyllic childhood in 1940s Peru. Wrenched from the comforts of Lima to attend a chilly, spartan Ampleforth under the watchful eye of Basil Hume, he realised he was gay at 16. Upon arriving at Oxford, he met Nichol, the charismatic son of Celia Johnson and Peter Fleming, and nephew of Ian Fleming. They became lovers, hiding, as it were, in plain sight, at a time when being gay risked imprisonment. 'The very social class we moved in had become our camouflage': as had Christopher's passion for shooting and his many female friends.

Christopher’s social circle grew exponentially: he adored people, and they loved him in return. Always in demand as a ‘spare man’ by royalty – and indeed the entire spectrum of British aristocracy – his time at Hambros in London and New York, and later his chairmanship of Christie’s, only expanded his connections to international proportions.

Longstanding friendships with the King and Queen, the Dukes of Devonshire and Wellington, and frequent stays at Windsor Castle, Chatsworth, and other great houses became part and parcel of his life. White-tie debutante balls, difficult moments with Princess Margaret, cheering up an unhappy Princess Diana, and organising the sale of her dresses for charity are recorded with sensitivity and kindly wit. A fascinating and touching account from a man who truly knew everyone – and made everyone feel known.