Author Karen Harper takes a look at the life and loves of Consuelo Vanderbilt. Consuelo is born to Alva and William K. Vanderbilt in the late 1880's and lives a charmed life, at least from outside appearances. When Consuelo is introduced to society, her mother is not impressed with Consuelo's suitor, Winthrop Rutherford. Alva heartlessly conspires and then manipulates her daughter to wed a man she doesn't love, "Sunny" Charles Spencer-Churchill. Consuelo becomes the Duchess of Marlborough and brings the Vanderbilt money to the faltering estate. As time progresses, Consuelo grows more confident in herself, leading her to make life choices that will ensure her happiness, to include finding love with Jacques Balsan.

Learning about history.

The author touches on world events and how Consuelo fit into them.

I thought the author toned down Conseulo's mother, "Alva" a bit, to make her appear more sympathetic than I suspect she was.

because of historical value. Conseulo grew up during the Gilded Age, yet there was an element of gilded to her life, yet it takes a while for her to find true happiness.

The book is told in the first person from Consuelo's perspective. The writing style is crisp and sharp; easy to read. The book is historical fiction, and I suspect there might have been a tad more hurt and angry feelings between Consuelo and her mother than the story lets on. What resonates with readers is the quiet, steady resolve of Consuelo who comes to live the life she wants to lead. The story is a nice reflection of the times and expectations. There were times I wondered if the author "toned down" some events to make Alva look more sympathetic.

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Created Jul 12, 2020 at 4:22pm • Submit your own review...