During New Zealand"s first one hundred years of diplomacy, diplomatic wives have played a far greater role than is officially recognized. Their influence, both good and bad, on their husbands" careers has been considerable. Many have faced dangers and difficulties with great courage and resourcefulness, and several have contributed significantly to the welfare of the women and children of the host country. Their lives are full of interest and excitement, but this has come at a price that many modern women are not prepared to pay, in terms of family relationships and personal fulfillment. In the 21st century, the days of "two for the price of one" are truly over and New Zealand is probably the loser. The wives, too, have lost some of the pleasures of complicity and partnership in the ancient art of diplomacy. In return, however, they have won the freedom to use their talents in a variety of roles that can contribute quite as effectively to New Zealand"s diplomatic life as the more traditional activities of their predecessors. Written with the authority (and irreverence) of an insider, this entertaining book of stories about New Zealand"s "diplomatic ladies" - from Maud Reeves in 1890s London to Maria MacKay in 2001 New York - will provide insight into the lives they led. The Foreword is written by former Foreign Minister Don McKinnon.