Author: Andrea Penrose
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher: Kensington Books
Book Release Date: 2024
Pages: 369
Source: Netgalley/Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: Fans of Shana Abé, Theresa Ann Fowler, and Fiona Davis will be captivated by the unforgettable spirit at the heart of the USA Today bestselling author's dazzling new historical novel based on the real life of Lady Hester Stanhope, a British aristocrat born into an illustrious family of swashbuckling war heroes and brilliant political leaders. Lady Hester was a Regency-era adventuress who lived on her own terms and defied all conventional strictures of what a woman could and couldn’t do during the Regency era.
Even with her privileged life, Lady Hester Stanhope knows that claiming the adventurous life she truly wants will not be easy, thanks to her eccentric father’s stifling grip. With the help of her renowned statesman uncle William Pitt the Younger, she takes on the glittering, treacherous heights of London Society. Her formidable intelligence, outspoken opinions, and headstrong determination gain the favor of the beau monde’s leading taste-maker Beau Brummell—and she quickly learns to bend the rules of the ton to her own advantage. And as her uncle’s hostess, she astutely uses her skills to preside over—and give advice to—the most influential figures of her day, rising to a position unequaled in society . . .
But when it comes to holy matrimony, Hester will settle for no less than a passionate match of equals—a search marked by challenges and heartbreak. Her affair with a charismatic naval officer tempts her with forbidden pleasures—even as it threatens her reputation. Her love for a sophisticated, brilliant diplomat offers the marriage of her dreams . . . and unsuspected betrayal. And as England is plunged into war, Hester’s world changes forever, causing her to find courage and strength amid loss, chart a completely unexpected future—and make a glorious legacy forever hers . . .
My Review: Lady Hester Stanhope was a famous travel writer, antiquarian, and adventurer. She was famous for her work in Israel and was often known as “Queen of the Desert”. Lady Hester Stanhope was an aristocrat and was the daughter of Earl Charles Stanhope and Lady Hester Pitt. In this historical novel, it tells the story of why Lady Hester Stanhope left England to go to the Middle East. It also discusses her struggles with romance.
Lady Hester Stanhope was truly a fascinating character. I first read a biography of her in the nonfiction book, Indomitable Women by William Woods Cotterman, which is a compilation of female explorers of the Middle East. Therefore, I could not wait to read Mrs. Penrose’s novel on her.
In this novel, Lady Hester Stanhope is still every bit as intriguing. She is a socialite and acts as her uncle’s hostess. She hosts many lavish and glamorous parties. However, she yearns to have an adventure. She also desires her own independence and does not want anyone to make her own decisions. She is also very eccentric. This book delves particularly into her romances. Lady Hester Stanhope often experienced many disappointments, especially when it came to love. I felt for her each time she experienced personal tragedies. Therefore, Lady Hester Stanhope was a wonderful character, and I loved reading her story.
Overall, this novel is about love, loss, and dreams. The characters are all well-developed, likable, and realistic. There was a lot more romance in this book than I was expecting. Also, the story was very drawn-out and moved at a slow pace. Nevertheless, I thought that the writing was very lush and lyrical! I like how Mrs. Penrose made Regency England come alive. The Diamond of London is a very heart-wrenching and emotional read! I recommend this for fans of Alison Pataki, Karen Harper, and Heather Webb!
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
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