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ARC Review: Her Heart for a Compass by Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York
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Author: Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York
Published August 3rd 2021 by Mills & Boon
Goodreads Synopsis
London 1865
In an attempt to rebel against a society where women are expected to conform, free-spirited Lady Margaret Montagu Scott flees the confines of polite society, and an arranged marriage. But Lady Margaret’s parents, the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch, as close friends with Queen Victoria, must face the public scrutiny of their daughter’s impulsive nature, and Margaret is banished from polite society.
Finding strength amongst equally free-spirited companions, including Queen Victoria’s daughter Princess Louise, Margaret resolves to follow her heart. On a journey of self-discovery that will take her to Ireland, America, and then back to Britain, Lady Margaret must follow her internal compass and search for her place, and her own identity, in a changing society.
Incorporating research into her heritage and drawing upon her own unique life journey and experiences, the Duchess pens a fictional account of the life of her great-great-aunt, Lady Margaret Montagu Douglas Scott. Rich in historical detail, Her Heart for a Compass offers a compelling look at Victorian England and the fascinating journey of a woman, born into the higher echelons of society, whose only desire is to follow her heart.
With co-writer Marguerite Kaye, an accomplished Mills & Boon historical author, The Duchess has created a breathtaking romantic novel of daring to follow your heart against all odds. Set amongst the drawing rooms of Victoria’s court, and the grand country houses of Scotland and Ireland.
Goodreads
Review
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
Lady Margaret Montagu Scott, second daughter of the Duke of Buccleuch, knows what is expected of her. She should marry a peer, and settle down to be the perfect wife and mother. However, she wants more in her life, and spending her time worrying about what to wear, and who to please is not the life she can envision. Fighting for what she wants, she discovers that by doing so, she risks the wrath of her friends and family, but finds herself along the way.
When I heard that the Duchess of York was writing a historical romance, based on the life of one of her ancestors, I was definitely intrigued. I liked Margaret, and she was definitely full of vim and vigour. She wanted more than her lot in life, and though she was extremely privileged - second daughter to a leading peer, best friend to a princess - she cared for those of all social classes, and hated seeing the inequality in society. Margaret spent time working in the areas of London, Dublin, and New York, where most people in society avoided. The fact that the book took Margaret across cities and continents was really enjoyable, and I liked how Margaret grew with each experience she had. One thing I will say against the book, and I very rarely say this, is that it felt too long at times. I disliked Margaret's relationship with Princess Louise, who ran all over her, and cared only for herself. There was also a little too much romance, which sounds daft, but Margaret had a suitor in basically every turn. I knew who she ended up with (and was glad for it), but there were times I felt like she strung the men along. Her Heart for a Compass was an enjoyable historical romance, with definitely potential. I do look forward to the next book though.
Dates Read:
February 11-March 18 2023
Rating
3 Stars
