Blenheim: 2biography of a Palace

Construction began in 1702 on this Oxfordshire mansion, a gift from Queen Anne to a victor at the Battle of Blenheim and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Fowler comprehensively details the often scandalous behavior of the spectacular landmark's occupants as well as its physical features and crippling maintenance costs. ``Each chapter in the portrait is engrossing,'' said PW. Illustrated. (Sept.)