Three
Elizabeths that come from different backgrounds all find themselves members of
the court of King Charles II. Eliza benefits from her father’s wealth, but is also
trapped by it as she seeks to avoid an undesirable arranged marriage and
instead write for the stage. Zabby has come to England from the colonies to
take her place at court and near the king and through the friendship that
develops between them she is able to foster her interest in science. Beth is
beautiful but poor and if she is able to fulfill her mother’s wish, she will
use her beauty to secure an advantageous marriage. However, her heart belongs
to her childhood sweetheart and she is torn as to following her heart or pursuing
a secure future.
While
it is quite obvious that this book is meant to have the theme of female
empowerment, it misses the mark. As historical fiction it strays too far from
an accurate portrayal of the time as it plays fast and loose with facts in
order to support and advance the plot the author has contrived. Themes of
adultery and female oppression are treated lightly and the conclusion is too
unrealistic to the overall historical feel of the novel. If a reader wants a
breezy silly romance, this book will do, but if someone is looking for a
historical fiction book that recognizes the intelligence of the reader, they
would well to search elsewhere.
MS,
HS—OPTIONAL AEB
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