A MEMOIR ݀ᐧ SEPTEMBER 2026

The Baronesses

A true story of sisterhood, survival and a secret that rewrote their past.

RACHEL WATKYN & CLAIRE HORNBY

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"Under my bed you will find something that I want you to open only once I die. It's a box. The padlock key is with some other items in the safe. You know the code. But remember, only after my death must it be opened."

- From the opening pages

About the book

To the outside world, Rachel and her half-sister Claire led a privileged life - educated in private schools, raised in grand country houses, moving in elite circles. Their father, the formidable Count De Lengham, came from an ancient noble line with its own coat of arms and centuries of prestige.

But privilege can be the perfect disguise.

Behind closed doors, Rachel and Claire's childhood was marked by chaos, neglect and abuse.

When the Count lay dying, a shocking confession and a hidden "box of secrets" exposed a dark truth that shattered their family and challenged everything they thought they knew.

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The sisters

Rachel Watkyn O.B.E

FOUNDER, THE TINY BOX COMPANY • DRAGONS' DEN INVESTEE

Managing Director of the UK's largest online gift-packaging retailer. Award-winning entrepreneur, media commentator and OBE recipient (2024).

Claire Hornby

PARTNER, NORFOLK PICK-YOUR-OWN FLOWER FARM

Runs a thriving social enterprise built on connection with nature. A degree-educated gardener, expert in wilding and organic growing.

What is the book about?

This is a story of resilience, of rebuilding, and of refusing to be defined by your starting point. Through honesty, humour, and hard truths, Rachel and Claire share the journey that shaped them, from a challenging childhood to building lives and careers on their own terms.It’s raw in places. Reflective in others. And ultimately, it’s about what’s possible when you decide your story isn’t finished yet.This isn’t just a memoir. It’s a reminder that your background doesn’t decide your future. And that even the most difficult beginnings can lead to something extraordinary.
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The Baronesses is available to pre-order now.
Release Date: 3rd September 2026

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PUBLISHING SEPTEMBER 2026 • SPHERE

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Available in hardback, ebook and audiobook.
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Get to know the book

What is The Baronesses about?

The Baronesses is a memoir by Rachel Watkyn and Claire Hornby, sharing their journey from a challenging childhood to building successful and independent lives.
Who wrote The Baronesses?

The book is written by Rachel Watkyn and her sister Claire Hornby.
When is The Baronesses released?

The book is set to be released in September 2026 and is currently available for pre-order.
Where can I buy The Baronesses?

You can pre-order the book through retailers such as Waterstones and Amazon.
Is The Baronesses a business book?

No, it is a personal story focused on resilience, family, and overcoming adversity, though it offers insights that can inspire people in all areas of life.