American Duchess by Karen Harper

 American Duchess brings a story of a remarkable woman, Consuelo Vanderbilt, who came from a privileged life but inspired to find meaning behind “the glitter and the gold.”

1893. While vacationing in Europe, Alva Vanderbilt uses her time wisely in Europe by hatching a plan to marry her daughter, Consuelo, to the Duke of Marlborough. While Consuelo dreams of marrying in America to an American, her mother dreams of titles, to be linked with someone serene and high.

As a newlywed, Consuelo’s life in England is filled with rules and restrictions, which some are quite new to her, including domestic status among household which was her biggest surprise. She longs for her husband’s sentiment or emotion; instead she is expected to care for his people when she is yet get to know him. And it’s not any easier when her husband is not helpful in this transition, rather judgmental.

She finds consolation and meaning in her life by spending time with the villagers and helping those in need. For the first time, she sees that she could make a difference as duchess. With time, she gets truly involved in philanthropy and charity, not simply dispensing funds. She dares to bring in the old ladies to tell their own tales at her social events filled with aristocracy for listeners.

I enjoyed the character of Consuelo very much. She was pushed to marry title over love against her wishes. She had her struggles with her mother, but she also appreciated what her mother has done for her and others. She finds love in her second marriage, but it comes with some family challenges. She is a divorcee and a Protestant and he comes from a family of Catholics with strong convictions.

I wished the story involved more of Consuelo’s charity work and bringing more dimensions to her character. Nevertheless, it is written engagingly and I enjoyed it in its entirety.

Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks

Release date: 26 February 2019