Ana (thestarslisten)'s Reviews > Mistress Mine

SPOILER FREE

Louise is such an inspiring character. Mistress Mine is a beautifully written coming of age story set in the second half of the 1800s. A must read for literary fans.

If Louise Saint Quentin were a real person who lived in the past, then this would be her memoir. She is both bold and brave. She’s not afraid to venture into the unknown all by herself.

The leaves dancing in the trees were shining in the light of the moon. The air was more fragrant than any perfume from any of her bottles.

It’s an easy read but it’s not a quick read. It took me quite a while to finish this book because physically wise, it is a huge book. Though it does have thick pages it has a lot of words too. The present story takes place in four years time and within those four years Louise has grown into a lovely young woman and has traveled across Europe. With her upbringing you’d think you’ll feel pity for her, but what I felt was anything but. I felt excited and elated as she is.

“A child’s love for its parents doesn’t go without saying. Love has to be deserved, and it takes time!”

My favorite part about this book is whenever a new character is introduced, a chapter will be dedicated solely for that character. Who his parents were, to the event on how he came to be this person at present and how he’s related to the other characters. I am not only learning about the life of Louise but also the life of other notable characters. There’s so many characters in this book that I had to write them down with their corresponding roles and relationships.

Why the book is called Mistress Mine? (My opinion, not the author’s actual reason) That is because Louise has met many gentlemen all in various ages throughout her adventure. Those men are also captivated by not only her beauty, but also her wits. Everyone around her is drawn to her energy and a lot of the said men would like to have Louise by their side.

I really took my time in reading this book. In my opinion, it’s not something you should devour in one sitting. You have to take breaks and let the new information sink in, let excitement grow inside. Another reason - which every other reader has - is I don’t want it to end because I enjoy Louise’s company so much. Her life is so unsure, I’m always looking forward to who we’ll meet next and where her adventure will take me next.

“I’ll take you as you are, Louise. I’m not interested in any of those young girls who pounced on me when I arrived here. I don’t want an innocent young dimwit programmed to marry a man or rather his fortune. Louise, you’re a free woman. You don’t need to marry to ensure your future. If you marry me, it’ll be because you love me, me and me alone.”

I’m looking forward to reading the second book in the story because Louise’s story hasn’t ended yet. The ending of this book was so exciting, filled with love, but I’m also left with lots of questions. With Louise, always expect the unexpected.