The story of Gertrude Bell and her crucial role in the foundation of the state of Iraq.

In 1919 and into 1920, Gertrude became increasingly frustrated by the protracted and ill-informed decisions being taken in Europe about the future of the Middle East.

First published in 2006, Queen of the Desert by Georgina Howell has been reissued - partly to coincide with the Werner Herzog film of the same title, but also to provide the long view on the troubled history of a remarkable country.

Using letters written by Gertrude Bell throughout the period, the book tells the story of an extraordinarily talented and determined woman who has often been overshadowed by her more famous friend, T.E. Lawrence.

Read by Sylvestra le Touzel and Deborah Findlay (the letters)

Abridged and produced by Jill Waters
A Waters Company production for BBC Radio 4. Show less