Kingmaker reveals how Pamela constantly reinvented herself, shedding identities and adopting new ones to suit her ambitions. From a British aristocrat's daughter to the wife of a Hollywood mogul, then a powerful political wife, she skillfully crafted her persona to climb the social ladder, demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in different environments.

While Pamela's ascent to power is undeniably fascinating, the book also examines the cost of her relentless drive. Her relationships, particularly with her husbands, were often transactional, marked by ambition and convenience rather than genuine affection. Purnell explores the sacrifices Pamela made – emotional, familial, and personal – in her quest for influence and recognition.

A master networker, Pamela understood the power of relationships. She cultivated an enviable circle of friends and allies, ranging from artists and intellectuals to business tycoons and political heavyweights. Kingmaker illustrates how Pamela leveraged these connections to advance her own agenda and influence global events.