Diplomacy and Diamonds: My Wars from the Ballroom to the Battlefield

Famed Texas socialite Herring is best known for her role in "Charlie Wilson's War" as the impetus behind America funding the mujahadeen. After being played by Julia Roberts in the film version, Herring worried that some accuracy was sacrificed. Here, she offers an account of her three marriages, experiences with wealth and poverty, steadfast faith, and role in America's covert aid to Afghanistan during the Cold War. Her endearing candor and priceless anecdotes balance the fact that she seems drastically out of touch with the average working person's experience, which may alienate readers with whom she claims a strong connection. As the narrative jumps around chronologically, Herring, a natural storyteller, offers reminisces of a life well-lived, as well as many press clippings, all while being as fair as possible with people who don't share her political beliefs (Aaron Sorkin being a great example). A deeply fascinating woman, Herring manages to live her faith without being overbearing in her dogma. Readers interested in the rich, famous and politically influential will love every minute. (Oct.)