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The Last Dollar Princess
It must be said. Scandal follows her family like an ever-faithful hound. No matter how hard they kick it away, it comes slinking around time-after-time. Although her relatives are obsessed with social position and the opinions of others, heiress India Elisabeth Petra De Vries Ledbetter is determined to live life by her own terms, family expectations and society's demands be damned.
Reared away from the social whirl of Gilded Age New York, India would prefer a life of philanthropy in her native Appalachia, but Mother and Grandmama have far grander plans. They believe Mrs. Astor's old 400 are ready to overlook the past and that an advantageous marriage will cement their place in society once more. In fact, they have already selected the prospective bridegroom. The only problem? No one consulted India.
Reared away from the social whirl of Gilded Age New York, India would prefer a life of philanthropy in her native Appalachia, but Mother and Grandmama have far grander plans. They believe Mrs. Astor's old 400 are ready to overlook the past and that an advantageous marriage will cement their place in society once more. In fact, they have already selected the prospective bridegroom. The only problem? No one consulted India.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2022
1914 people are currently reading
8421 people want to read
About the author
Linda Bennett Pennell
14 books264 followersI have been in love with the past for as long as I can remember. Anything with a history, whether shabby or majestic, recent or ancient, instantly draws me in. I suppose it comes from being part of a large extended family that spanned several generations. Long summer afternoons on my grandmother's porch or winter evenings gathered around her fireplace were filled with stories both entertaining and poignant. Of course being set in the American South, those stories were also peopled by some very interesting characters, some of whom have found their way into my work.
As for my venture in writing, it has allowed me to reinvent myself. We humans are truly multifaceted creatures, but unfortunately we tend to sort and categorize each other into neat, easily understood packages that rarely reveal the whole person. Perhaps you, too, want to step out of the box in which you find yourself. I encourage you to look at the possibilities and imagine. Be filled with childlike wonder in your mental wanderings. Envision what might be, not simply what is. Let us never forget, all good fiction begins when someone says to her or himself, "Let's pretend."
I reside in the Houston area with one sweet husband and one adorable German Shorthaired Pointer who is quite certain she’s a little girl.
"History is filled with the sound of silken slippers going downstairs and wooden shoes coming up." Voltaire
As for my venture in writing, it has allowed me to reinvent myself. We humans are truly multifaceted creatures, but unfortunately we tend to sort and categorize each other into neat, easily understood packages that rarely reveal the whole person. Perhaps you, too, want to step out of the box in which you find yourself. I encourage you to look at the possibilities and imagine. Be filled with childlike wonder in your mental wanderings. Envision what might be, not simply what is. Let us never forget, all good fiction begins when someone says to her or himself, "Let's pretend."
I reside in the Houston area with one sweet husband and one adorable German Shorthaired Pointer who is quite certain she’s a little girl.
"History is filled with the sound of silken slippers going downstairs and wooden shoes coming up." Voltaire
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 200 reviews
October 19, 2022
A special thanks to Black Rose Writing and Author Linda Bennett Pennell for my autographed ARC of “The Last Dollar Princess” for an honest review.
A Gilded Age story that begins in the North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains is obviously going to be fascinating! Author Pennell tells a well-developed story filled with spicy characters, some you’ll joyously root for and others you’ll deliciously hate. I love books that immediately dive the reader into the story, as this book does. I truly felt like the scenes were appropriately described with the exact amount of details so we the reader could picture the gorgeous scenes, and the Gilded Age was a beautiful era. I thought this story was all from the protagonist India’s viewpoint but that’s not true—we get behind-the-scenes saucy viewpoints from other characters as well. Very early on one is aware something big is brewing, and this richly told tale is done so in sweetly short chapters (love!) that always ends with hints at the thrills ahead. Absolutely 5-stars as it’s a great winter read. Hide away with this book with a lush throw and hot tea and delve into the fun past times of the wealthy during a particularly fabulous time!!
A Gilded Age story that begins in the North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains is obviously going to be fascinating! Author Pennell tells a well-developed story filled with spicy characters, some you’ll joyously root for and others you’ll deliciously hate. I love books that immediately dive the reader into the story, as this book does. I truly felt like the scenes were appropriately described with the exact amount of details so we the reader could picture the gorgeous scenes, and the Gilded Age was a beautiful era. I thought this story was all from the protagonist India’s viewpoint but that’s not true—we get behind-the-scenes saucy viewpoints from other characters as well. Very early on one is aware something big is brewing, and this richly told tale is done so in sweetly short chapters (love!) that always ends with hints at the thrills ahead. Absolutely 5-stars as it’s a great winter read. Hide away with this book with a lush throw and hot tea and delve into the fun past times of the wealthy during a particularly fabulous time!!
November 10, 2022
This was a captivating and emotional read. We explore a time in history when wealthy American families were willing to sell their daughters for British titles and prestige. it speaks to a time when women had no say over what happened to them and were under the control of parents and husbands. Our heroine in this book supports women’s rights and is desperately seeking more independence, but her mother is still determined to sell her for a title.
I think this book puts a happier spin on the reality of that situation, and the loveless marriages these women were forced into so their families could buy prestige. However, it is still a well done and intriguing historical romance.
I received a free copy of this book from Black Rose Writing via Netgalley. My review is voluntary, and the opinions expressed on my own.
I think this book puts a happier spin on the reality of that situation, and the loveless marriages these women were forced into so their families could buy prestige. However, it is still a well done and intriguing historical romance.
I received a free copy of this book from Black Rose Writing via Netgalley. My review is voluntary, and the opinions expressed on my own.
July 1, 2022
The early 20th century sets the stage for this historical drama. The author’s meticulous research into this fascinating era adds a rich layer to an engaging, well-written, and cohesive storyline.
“Leading Lady,” Heiress India Elisabeth Petra De Vries Ledbetter, is a multifaceted and likeable character who is easy to root for. Her “co-stars,” which include a manipulative mother and grandmother duo, are equally complex, interesting characters. The settings and social norms of the period add a rich layer to this memorable drama. Recommended.
“Leading Lady,” Heiress India Elisabeth Petra De Vries Ledbetter, is a multifaceted and likeable character who is easy to root for. Her “co-stars,” which include a manipulative mother and grandmother duo, are equally complex, interesting characters. The settings and social norms of the period add a rich layer to this memorable drama. Recommended.
July 25, 2024
literally nothing happens for 335 pages.
August 9, 2022
'The Last Dollar Princess' brings to life the Gilded Age phenomena of American wealth purchasing prestige and respectability from British aristocracy by way of marriage. Linda Bennett Pennell's evocative language illuminates the turn of the century New York societal echelons where their sparkle simply reflects the machinations of social climbing.
India Ledbetter is the sole heir to a fortune. Having been raised away from the societal spotlight, her mother and grandmother feel that now's the time for her debut both into New York society and the marriage market. Further, India's mother hopes to regain her family's respectability through her daughter marrying advantageously, 'you are no more and no less than the man you marry'. However, this is a new century and India intends to find her own way and become her own woman. Contrary to her mother and grandmother's social jockeying, India realises that 'maybe honesty is more important than appearances'.
'The Last Dollar Princess' is well worth a read, not only as a romance but as a work of historical fiction. Linda Bennett Pennell captures the nuances of the age but enlightens us about a time when a place in society could seemingly be bought and wealthy American heiresses were 'sold' into what some have deemed as a type of slavery.
India Ledbetter is the sole heir to a fortune. Having been raised away from the societal spotlight, her mother and grandmother feel that now's the time for her debut both into New York society and the marriage market. Further, India's mother hopes to regain her family's respectability through her daughter marrying advantageously, 'you are no more and no less than the man you marry'. However, this is a new century and India intends to find her own way and become her own woman. Contrary to her mother and grandmother's social jockeying, India realises that 'maybe honesty is more important than appearances'.
'The Last Dollar Princess' is well worth a read, not only as a romance but as a work of historical fiction. Linda Bennett Pennell captures the nuances of the age but enlightens us about a time when a place in society could seemingly be bought and wealthy American heiresses were 'sold' into what some have deemed as a type of slavery.
July 30, 2024
“I’m looking for a man in England. Irresponsible money habits. Two-faced. Titled.” ~ India, probably.
Next time she might want to wish for somebody with a little bit more of a personality who isn’t controlled by a meddlesome sister. But in order to attract somebody with a personality, one must have one first, right?
This book had so. Much. Potential. I was incredibly disappointed with the plot line, the writing style, and the shallow characters. The use of “heck” and “listen here, buster” threw me for a loop, as I have NEVER heard these words used in a period piece like this before. Also, was Charlie an Earl?? A lord??? A count???? India’s new title changed almost as often as Charlie’s personality did. And WHY, would an author randomly use a famous WW1 boat and NOT incorporate a more interesting story line? All in all, this book was sorely disappointing.
Next time she might want to wish for somebody with a little bit more of a personality who isn’t controlled by a meddlesome sister. But in order to attract somebody with a personality, one must have one first, right?
This book had so. Much. Potential. I was incredibly disappointed with the plot line, the writing style, and the shallow characters. The use of “heck” and “listen here, buster” threw me for a loop, as I have NEVER heard these words used in a period piece like this before. Also, was Charlie an Earl?? A lord??? A count???? India’s new title changed almost as often as Charlie’s personality did. And WHY, would an author randomly use a famous WW1 boat and NOT incorporate a more interesting story line? All in all, this book was sorely disappointing.
August 2, 2022
You will be cheering the main character, India on, as she maneuvers her way through her debutante years in a period when women were treated like chattel. Given her fortune and beauty, India is a target for fortune hunters and knowing this, she tries to make the best of it while maintaining her independence. Both her mother and grandmother want to force her into relationships meant to improve their own social status. But India has a heart and is determined to find love her own way. A heart-warming tale of family and societal expectations during the Gilded Age.
July 27, 2022
A good story
But too many grammatical errors and cliches.
I expect there will be a follow up. All too predictable for me.
But too many grammatical errors and cliches.
I expect there will be a follow up. All too predictable for me.
March 20, 2023
Interesting, entertaining read… just what I needed recently.
August 1, 2022
(I received a complimentary electronic copy of this book from the author, who requested a read and a review, but did not in any way influence the review.)
In her author bio, Linda Bennett Pennell says, “I have been in love with the past for as long as I can remember. Anything with a history, whether shabby or majestic, recent or ancient, instantly draws me in.” In *The Last Dollar Princess,* Pennell draws us in to experience that historical magic, with a tale of a wealthy young North Carolina woman with a shady family history who is to debut in the glamorous New York City of more than a century ago. Her mother, aptly named “Petra,” is determined to make the best marriage deal possible, and the prospect of a title from “across the pond” is especially attractive.
This is a plot found in many historical romances, but Pennell elevates the form in a delightful, intricate story that has us guessing until the final pages just how the tensions will resolve. We are fully in the author’s capable control as she surrounds us with the furnishings and bustle of the period but often takes us deep into a character’s heart, so the full complexity of the human spirit is often on display. In one early scene, our heroine, India Ledbetter, eyes her mother and grandmother and fears that “their anxiety [will] creep across the seats and grab her by the throat.”
But Petra is not a Disney-style villainess. Rather, in a touching moment later, India is suddenly caught up short by the consideration that her mother might not feel loved. An early suitor, Billy, is introduced charmingly but is surprisingly complex, and another suitor, Charlie, is introduced as cool toward India, but his family has decided that “she is to be the one.” The stock plot we expect from here is thwarted by Pennell’s graceful handling of the social game, including her delightful metaphors of scoring in a tennis match.
As we would expect, India is an independent young woman fascinated by the Suffragettes and justly frustrated by the constrictions of her time. She is not yet 21, so she has no power over her wealth, and a board of trustees has her fate in their hands, even when it comes to arranging her marriage contracts. A modernity-sensible author might break the fourth wall and have India escape the shackles of her time, running off with a chauffeur as was done at Downton Abbey. But Pennell sits us down firmly in India’s world to consider what her realities would have been, and how the indomitable spirit of a young woman could be constrained but not extinguished by her times.
Sometimes the “sketch” of a character’s complexity is not fully enough worked out, so that character or the action can come across in a particular scene as inconsistent, not richly human. But overall, Pennell has done a masterful job of sharing with us the history she loves, and I highly recommend this delightful novel of a glittering era.
In her author bio, Linda Bennett Pennell says, “I have been in love with the past for as long as I can remember. Anything with a history, whether shabby or majestic, recent or ancient, instantly draws me in.” In *The Last Dollar Princess,* Pennell draws us in to experience that historical magic, with a tale of a wealthy young North Carolina woman with a shady family history who is to debut in the glamorous New York City of more than a century ago. Her mother, aptly named “Petra,” is determined to make the best marriage deal possible, and the prospect of a title from “across the pond” is especially attractive.
This is a plot found in many historical romances, but Pennell elevates the form in a delightful, intricate story that has us guessing until the final pages just how the tensions will resolve. We are fully in the author’s capable control as she surrounds us with the furnishings and bustle of the period but often takes us deep into a character’s heart, so the full complexity of the human spirit is often on display. In one early scene, our heroine, India Ledbetter, eyes her mother and grandmother and fears that “their anxiety [will] creep across the seats and grab her by the throat.”
But Petra is not a Disney-style villainess. Rather, in a touching moment later, India is suddenly caught up short by the consideration that her mother might not feel loved. An early suitor, Billy, is introduced charmingly but is surprisingly complex, and another suitor, Charlie, is introduced as cool toward India, but his family has decided that “she is to be the one.” The stock plot we expect from here is thwarted by Pennell’s graceful handling of the social game, including her delightful metaphors of scoring in a tennis match.
As we would expect, India is an independent young woman fascinated by the Suffragettes and justly frustrated by the constrictions of her time. She is not yet 21, so she has no power over her wealth, and a board of trustees has her fate in their hands, even when it comes to arranging her marriage contracts. A modernity-sensible author might break the fourth wall and have India escape the shackles of her time, running off with a chauffeur as was done at Downton Abbey. But Pennell sits us down firmly in India’s world to consider what her realities would have been, and how the indomitable spirit of a young woman could be constrained but not extinguished by her times.
Sometimes the “sketch” of a character’s complexity is not fully enough worked out, so that character or the action can come across in a particular scene as inconsistent, not richly human. But overall, Pennell has done a masterful job of sharing with us the history she loves, and I highly recommend this delightful novel of a glittering era.
June 10, 2022
India Ledbetter has big ideas and a sharp wit. When she leaves the North Carolina mountains for the New York social scene, the young woman must satisfy her well-bred family while staying true to her mountain roots. As everyone around her tries to dictate her future, India finds the strength to choose her own fate, regardless of the consequences. The Last Dollar Princess is sharp, witty, and enthralling. I felt transported back to early 20th Century New York City and London as the details of the time dripped from the pages.
February 6, 2024
There could have been so much to make this book better. I felt the characters all had back stories that would have been enlightening to help develop the story and make it more interesting. I felt a lot of detail was left out and found myself creating more to the characters then the author provided. Book was just ok.
July 13, 2022
To the Victor Go the Spoils. Through every chapter of The Last Dollar Princess readers question: Who will be the final victor? Will it be India Ledbetter, the eighteen-year-old debutante and heiress, as she searches for a suitor who will utter the one word she wants to hear? Which man might it be? The cad, the man in uniform, or the one plucked from an English castle. Will it be her manipulative mother and grandmother seeking to victoriously marry off their “dollar princess” to the man with the most esteemed title and lineage? These questions keep you turning the pages as you walk with India through the last years of the Gilded Age in New York, London and the English countryside. It's a time when women, inspired by the suffrage movement, stir and awaken their desires for independence and choice in their lives as to who they will marry and how they will lead their lives.
Reminiscent of the first seasons of Downton Abbey, The Last Dollar Princess exudes opulence of a by-gone era, brought to life by author Linda Pennell’s lavish details of settings and attire. Pick up the book, turn the pages, and discover the rewards of immersing yourself into this delightful, coming-of-age, finding-your-voice story of victory for those determined to win it for themselves. I wish Goodreads allowed half stars as this one should be a 4.5 stars for me.
Thank you to the author and Black Rose Writing for providing me with a free ARC copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
Reminiscent of the first seasons of Downton Abbey, The Last Dollar Princess exudes opulence of a by-gone era, brought to life by author Linda Pennell’s lavish details of settings and attire. Pick up the book, turn the pages, and discover the rewards of immersing yourself into this delightful, coming-of-age, finding-your-voice story of victory for those determined to win it for themselves. I wish Goodreads allowed half stars as this one should be a 4.5 stars for me.
Thank you to the author and Black Rose Writing for providing me with a free ARC copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
August 2, 2022
This is a good story told with mediocre writing skills. “Clenched fists, lip between teeth, repetitive self talk, self doubts are stated too often and could have been said in different ways.
The story is four star, but the writing is two star. Thus, I gave three stars.
The story is four star, but the writing is two star. Thus, I gave three stars.
July 27, 2024
Setting aside all of the grammatical errors, this book was boring, full of cliches, and uneventful. The characters were unlikable and lacked depth. Very disappointing.
July 14, 2022
Though I enjoy historical fiction and am lukewarm to romance-type novels, The Last Dollar Princess: A Young Heiress's Quest for Independence in Gilded Age America and George V's Coronation Year England surprised and delighted me in that it was not overly syrupy with the romance and it was evidently well-researched in the history department.
Linda Bennett Pennell writes descriptions well; they really do bring the reader into the scene.
One sentence had me scratching my head when India went to church with her family, and it is this:
It is such an odd statement and observation. Had India never gone to church before this? Was there never any talk about attending Christmas Eve Mass in their past? To draw a crowd seems like too much a view of Mass as an entertainment venue, rather than worship. That really left me cold. But then, who am I to get into India's head?
Otherwise, this is a good novel and I relished it in its entirety.
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🏮Kindle Unlimited version.
Linda Bennett Pennell writes descriptions well; they really do bring the reader into the scene.
One sentence had me scratching my head when India went to church with her family, and it is this:
Christmas Eve Mass apparently drew a crowd.
It is such an odd statement and observation. Had India never gone to church before this? Was there never any talk about attending Christmas Eve Mass in their past? To draw a crowd seems like too much a view of Mass as an entertainment venue, rather than worship. That really left me cold. But then, who am I to get into India's head?
Otherwise, this is a good novel and I relished it in its entirety.
✿●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬●✿●✿●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬●✿
🏮Kindle Unlimited version.
September 12, 2022
The Last Dollar Princess is fabulous story about wealthy daughters being married off to save titled well born families in England that have mismanaged their own wealth. All too often we have heard and read of this type of alliance. Some marriages were successful and some were not. India is the product of a family with unsuccessful marriages. As a result her mother and grandmother are bitter snobs that are overly critical of those they deign beneath them. India was well and truly loved by her father. With her fathers support she goes on a trip with her mother for her coming out to society. Knowing she is a tool for her mother and grandmother to show off for society she is resistant to making it easy for them. Unfortunately society has a surprise for them when the most affluent do not show for her coming out ball. Embarrassed from the "cut" they head home.
Charlie, is introduced and is cool towards India, but his family has decided that “she is to be the one.” India is not open to the pursuit of a relationship with Charlie. But the two find a compatible friendship and alliance to support one another against each other's family. Tragedy will strike and plans will change as India's mother finds she has more power, but so does India when things do not go her way. India will become her own person and show a strength to all that will surprise even herself.
This is a wonderful story of a era gone by. It is a time period that most cannot relate. I love the story of India and Charlie. Each has so much to overcome before they can find a deep and abiding love.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
Charlie, is introduced and is cool towards India, but his family has decided that “she is to be the one.” India is not open to the pursuit of a relationship with Charlie. But the two find a compatible friendship and alliance to support one another against each other's family. Tragedy will strike and plans will change as India's mother finds she has more power, but so does India when things do not go her way. India will become her own person and show a strength to all that will surprise even herself.
This is a wonderful story of a era gone by. It is a time period that most cannot relate. I love the story of India and Charlie. Each has so much to overcome before they can find a deep and abiding love.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
July 30, 2022
Overall Rating = 4.92
Storyline & Concept = 5
Writing & Delivery = 5
Editorial = 4.75
India Ledbetter is a young woman living in the early 1900s with a desire to experience her own life, away from the demands of her family and the constraints of society. Unfortunately, a lifetime of living under the thumb of her mother leaves India unprepared for what is in store for her. Traveling from North Carolina to New York to England, India is more determined than ever to make her own decisions but is confused by the emotions she encounters along the way.
The Last Dollar Princess is a wonderful novel that was very difficult to put down. I was immersed in the time period and the colorful settings, and I was completely invested in the characters, particularly India. The author writes with skill and an innate sense of pacing, capturing the essence of a young woman facing experiences that pit her head and her heart against each other. This is a well-researched novel that carries the reader between two continents during a fascinating era of history, and is a must-read for both history buffs, romance readers, and those who love an excellent story of determination in the face of opposition.
Sublime Line: “The Last Dollar Princess is a skillfully-written and engaging historical novel about a unique young woman struggling against the constraints of society."
Storyline & Concept = 5
Writing & Delivery = 5
Editorial = 4.75
India Ledbetter is a young woman living in the early 1900s with a desire to experience her own life, away from the demands of her family and the constraints of society. Unfortunately, a lifetime of living under the thumb of her mother leaves India unprepared for what is in store for her. Traveling from North Carolina to New York to England, India is more determined than ever to make her own decisions but is confused by the emotions she encounters along the way.
The Last Dollar Princess is a wonderful novel that was very difficult to put down. I was immersed in the time period and the colorful settings, and I was completely invested in the characters, particularly India. The author writes with skill and an innate sense of pacing, capturing the essence of a young woman facing experiences that pit her head and her heart against each other. This is a well-researched novel that carries the reader between two continents during a fascinating era of history, and is a must-read for both history buffs, romance readers, and those who love an excellent story of determination in the face of opposition.
Sublime Line: “The Last Dollar Princess is a skillfully-written and engaging historical novel about a unique young woman struggling against the constraints of society."
June 29, 2022
Set in the waning days of the Edwardian age, when only a few of the daughters of American tycoons haven’t been married to impeccably pedigreed Americans or English Aristocracy, The Last Dollar Princess reflects both the realities of the limitations experienced by the young debutante as well as the women who strived for increasing independence. It’s a nice juxtaposition that creates a certain amount of tension and conflict in a story that contains aspects of the stifling atmosphere of New York society so wonderfully depicted by Edith Wharton, along with some flavor of Downton Abbey.
The story centers around India, whose mother is from a disgraced and financially impoverished old family that have been marginalised to the fringes of the cream of New York society and a father whose only pedigree is great financial wealth, dubiously acquired by his own father. India, now at an age to be presented to society is compelled by her mother to make her debut in the hopes she will attract a highly placed suitor that will enhance her family’s social standing. India is reluctant to go because she has no interest in New York society and loves her home in North Carolina. It’s only once she arrives at her domineering grandmother’s New York home that India realises that she is to be paired up with an impoverished young English aristocrat, Charles, in the hopes her fortune can restore his. The realisation sets India into a dilemma and she is forced to consider her options and learn the realities of the world in which she inhabits. Well researched with lush settings and vivid color, the story is an enjoyable read filled with lively characters that provide a good reflection of the time period.
Kristin Gleeson author of the USA Today bestselling novel, In Praise of the Bees.
The story centers around India, whose mother is from a disgraced and financially impoverished old family that have been marginalised to the fringes of the cream of New York society and a father whose only pedigree is great financial wealth, dubiously acquired by his own father. India, now at an age to be presented to society is compelled by her mother to make her debut in the hopes she will attract a highly placed suitor that will enhance her family’s social standing. India is reluctant to go because she has no interest in New York society and loves her home in North Carolina. It’s only once she arrives at her domineering grandmother’s New York home that India realises that she is to be paired up with an impoverished young English aristocrat, Charles, in the hopes her fortune can restore his. The realisation sets India into a dilemma and she is forced to consider her options and learn the realities of the world in which she inhabits. Well researched with lush settings and vivid color, the story is an enjoyable read filled with lively characters that provide a good reflection of the time period.
Kristin Gleeson author of the USA Today bestselling novel, In Praise of the Bees.
June 12, 2025
This was a fun read and my purpose of delving into the Gilded Age was accomplished. Interesting characters.... however, not believable as a genuine Gilded Age story. I find it highly unlikely that any young woman would make the decisions the main character chooses in that time period. The ideas are thoroughly twenty-first century pro-woman ideals. While women did have a difficult role in many ways in the Gilded Age, I see the current world view as influencing the story tremendously. Perhaps one of the choices the main character makes may have been believable, or a try and then giving in, but the constant and numerous ways she asserts herself seems highly unlikely to me from her heritage.
July 21, 2022
Entertaining
I really liked the central character, a strong-minded young woman with the determination to seek independence in a world where women were expected to be dependent and completely subsumed by the needs and demands of men. She has moments of insecurity and doubt bounces back quickly and fights for what she wants. I hope there’s a sequel because I really want to know about Grandmother Jean.
I really liked the central character, a strong-minded young woman with the determination to seek independence in a world where women were expected to be dependent and completely subsumed by the needs and demands of men. She has moments of insecurity and doubt bounces back quickly and fights for what she wants. I hope there’s a sequel because I really want to know about Grandmother Jean.
August 7, 2022
A very good page turner with a strong female protagonist. The story started a little slow but soon picked up and I found myself eager to get back to it. I struggled a bit with India's and Charles relationship but ended up accepting it for what it was presented to be. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publishers for an e-arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 1, 2022
It was very engaging!
Try to put this book down, I dare you! Fellow history buffs will be well entertained. I am so lucky to have found this novel.
Try to put this book down, I dare you! Fellow history buffs will be well entertained. I am so lucky to have found this novel.
Read
July 27, 2024DNF….it was boring…
January 5, 2025
Very interesting time in US and British history
July 30, 2022
Loved it!
I really enjoyed this book and hope Ms. Pennell is working on a second book about this fascinating couple. WELL DONE!
I really enjoyed this book and hope Ms. Pennell is working on a second book about this fascinating couple. WELL DONE!
July 30, 2022
Linda Bennett Pennell never disappoints with her historical fiction, and this book was especially welcome with the renewed interest in the latest Downton Abby movie, along with the new series, "The Gilded Age."
I enjoyed the book immensely, and the unfolding characters as they grew and changed, facing adversity and tragedies, as well as the strictures of society. The romance within the book was well-developed with enough twists and turns to make you feel as if you were a part of the story.
Loved this book and Ms. Pennell's excellent writing!
I enjoyed the book immensely, and the unfolding characters as they grew and changed, facing adversity and tragedies, as well as the strictures of society. The romance within the book was well-developed with enough twists and turns to make you feel as if you were a part of the story.
Loved this book and Ms. Pennell's excellent writing!
July 28, 2022
classic fare for a romance novel
The strengths of the story were the descriptive words and the effort taken to promote passion in the characters.
The distractions were in the lack of editing. Brother-in-law became “bother-in-law.” Althea became “Aletha.” Spacing issues between words and in paragraphs were awkward and interfered. The writer knows her way around a story. It just needed some fine tuning.
The strengths of the story were the descriptive words and the effort taken to promote passion in the characters.
The distractions were in the lack of editing. Brother-in-law became “bother-in-law.” Althea became “Aletha.” Spacing issues between words and in paragraphs were awkward and interfered. The writer knows her way around a story. It just needed some fine tuning.
November 4, 2022
Rating: 3.5/5.0
Overall, this book can easily sweep the reader into a time that shone on the outside but had secrets within.
Read full review in the 2022 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Overall, this book can easily sweep the reader into a time that shone on the outside but had secrets within.
Read full review in the 2022 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
July 25, 2022
Engaging
This story revealed to me the sad state that one of the few avenues of influence or power open to women prior to 1920 or so was social status and manipulation of those around them. And this was true of all races and strata of society.
Good read and it kept me guessing if the end would be joyful or sad.
This story revealed to me the sad state that one of the few avenues of influence or power open to women prior to 1920 or so was social status and manipulation of those around them. And this was true of all races and strata of society.
Good read and it kept me guessing if the end would be joyful or sad.
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