I’m excited to write my first recommendation since publishing my spring reading list for:
American Duchess: A Novel of Consuelo Vanderbilt by Karen Harper.
An intriguing story, this work of historical fiction was a lighter read until the last sections. It tells the story (from first person perspective) of Vanderbilt heiress Consuelo who was forced by her mother Alva to marry the Duke of Marlborough. Consuelo’s character, as it is written here, is likeable and she navigates her circumstances admirably, becoming a champion for the underprivileged.
I had already read and enjoyed a prequel to this book though it was by a different author: A Well-Behaved Woman: A Novel of the Vanderbilts. which focuses on Alva but follows Consuelo’s marriage from afar.
The period of history where Americans with “new” money married royalty for titles (and because the royals needed money) is fascinating to me. While reading I was at first more interested in the family drama and the lifestyle and customs of the British royalty. But Consuelo did win me over with her good heart and deeds, and later the book turns into (somewhat) of a WWII novel as it spans from 1895-1943, making it a deeper read towards the end.
All in all this was a solid, enjoyable, interesting read that I recommend especially if British royal family drama (as in Downton Abbey) is of interest to you.
As a follow up, I plan to read this classic book which supposedly was based on Consuela: The Buccaneers by Edith Wharton.
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