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The Gilded Cage
1897. Rosamund bows her head and steps slowly down the aisle. The satin of her gown whispers against the stone floor and a single tear falls into the bunch of yellow roses twisted in her trembling hands. Despite rumours of his cruelty, Rosamund has no choice but to become this man’s second wife. After her wedding, Rosamund finds herself trapped in Sir Lucien Fitznorton’s lonely country estate. As she wanders the chilly halls, made shadowy by drapes of heavy velvet, she longs for the lost comforts of her childhood home, where she was the beloved only daughter to a doting father, now buried miles away. As a young woman with no fortune of her own, only death can release her from this misery. Until she meets Joseph , her husband’s gruffly handsome new chauffeur. With his mop of salt-and-pepper hair and lilting accent, Joseph is from another world. One of clambering children and tea at scrubbed kitchen tables, the hollow scratch of hunger and long hours of hard work. Despite their differences, they find themselves increasingly drawn to one other. But Sir Lucien is not only cruel, he’s devious too, and soon Rosamund finds herself caught in a dangerous web of secrets and lies. Is Rosamund’s fragile marriage nothing but a golden cage, trapping her between two men who desire her… and to what end? One holds her captive and the other offers a hope of escape… but who really holds the key to Rosamund’s gilded prison? A gripping and emotional historical novel, fans of Lucinda Riley and Tracy Rees won’t be able to put this book down.
What readers are saying about The Gilded Cage :
“Have just finished this page-turning historical novel …This is brilliant writing, allowing the flaws as well as the strengths of the character's personalities to flow through their private thoughts. The romance was gripping and steamy, the main character was brave and enduring, the baddies were loathsome and everything was wrapped up in a satisfactory way that I hadn't really seen coming. A brilliant read and I will be watching out for Luisa's next book!” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“ The Gilded Cage is an unforgettable, powerful historical tale that gripped my heart and shook it fiercely. I spent many hours reading late into the night unable to put this book down. It had me entranced as it is so incredibly well written…I am really glad I read this novel. It is a beacon of encouragement for the abused. A healing balm for a troubled soul . And a literary triumph for the insightful reader. The Gilded Cage is profound and expertly crafted. I highly recommend this powerful novel.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Luisa A Jones deftly weaves a picture of society in the early twentieth century across all social classes and fills it with life , her characters are thoroughly believable and she writes about traumatic, but common, life events with insight. Overall I thought this was a fabulous debut and I am looking forward to reading more from this author .” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“ The Gilded Cage is a beautifully written novel that packs a punch …I have no hesitation in recommending this excellent novel.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“ I read it in a day and will be seeking out more of the author’s work” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What readers are saying about The Gilded Cage :
“Have just finished this page-turning historical novel …This is brilliant writing, allowing the flaws as well as the strengths of the character's personalities to flow through their private thoughts. The romance was gripping and steamy, the main character was brave and enduring, the baddies were loathsome and everything was wrapped up in a satisfactory way that I hadn't really seen coming. A brilliant read and I will be watching out for Luisa's next book!” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“ The Gilded Cage is an unforgettable, powerful historical tale that gripped my heart and shook it fiercely. I spent many hours reading late into the night unable to put this book down. It had me entranced as it is so incredibly well written…I am really glad I read this novel. It is a beacon of encouragement for the abused. A healing balm for a troubled soul . And a literary triumph for the insightful reader. The Gilded Cage is profound and expertly crafted. I highly recommend this powerful novel.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Luisa A Jones deftly weaves a picture of society in the early twentieth century across all social classes and fills it with life , her characters are thoroughly believable and she writes about traumatic, but common, life events with insight. Overall I thought this was a fabulous debut and I am looking forward to reading more from this author .” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“ The Gilded Cage is a beautifully written novel that packs a punch …I have no hesitation in recommending this excellent novel.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“ I read it in a day and will be seeking out more of the author’s work” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 22, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
March 5, 2025
*Desperate Acts*
This is the first book in a two-book series (The Fitznorton Series). My heart ached for the main character, Rosamund.
The story begins in 1897. Rosamund, whose father has passed away, means she must marry the rather grotesque Sir Lucien, because her brother can no longer support her. They need to sell their home. Sir Lucien’s wife has passed away, and he needs a wife.
Feeling like she has no choice, Rosamund goes ahead with the marriage. That’s where her nightmare begins. Sir Lucien is anything but kind, and Rosamund finds herself living in a nightmare of violent acts by her so-called husband.
Rosamund has never known love, and this is her first experience. Without any provisions of her own, she sees no way of escaping.
Things change when she meets the new chauffeur, Joseph. He is ruggedly handsome, and their worlds are far apart. He has many children and lives a very basic life with his wife. He sees Rosamund as entitled and frosty, while she is intrigued by him.
Will Rosamund ever escape the gilded cage that has virtually kept her prisoner? How much torture can she take? Is there a possibility of two people from very different worlds finding common ground? Will she ever find her voice regarding her husband?
I can’t wait for the second book!
This is the first book in a two-book series (The Fitznorton Series). My heart ached for the main character, Rosamund.
The story begins in 1897. Rosamund, whose father has passed away, means she must marry the rather grotesque Sir Lucien, because her brother can no longer support her. They need to sell their home. Sir Lucien’s wife has passed away, and he needs a wife.
Feeling like she has no choice, Rosamund goes ahead with the marriage. That’s where her nightmare begins. Sir Lucien is anything but kind, and Rosamund finds herself living in a nightmare of violent acts by her so-called husband.
Rosamund has never known love, and this is her first experience. Without any provisions of her own, she sees no way of escaping.
Things change when she meets the new chauffeur, Joseph. He is ruggedly handsome, and their worlds are far apart. He has many children and lives a very basic life with his wife. He sees Rosamund as entitled and frosty, while she is intrigued by him.
Will Rosamund ever escape the gilded cage that has virtually kept her prisoner? How much torture can she take? Is there a possibility of two people from very different worlds finding common ground? Will she ever find her voice regarding her husband?
I can’t wait for the second book!
July 15, 2023
The Gilded Cage was one of the best realistic historical fiction audiobooks I’ve listened to this year!
I was warned it had a lot of abuse, heartbreaking, sometimes difficult subject matter. To me it was all worth it, even necessary. I myself have suffered from a traumatic childhood and could relate to this story. Having said all that I fell hard. Loved the writing that was a moving, brilliant powerfully realistic. Luisa A. Jones is a new author on my radar and she captivated. Her characters shared their inner thoughts and struggles with the time period. I was there.
I just wanted to listen to this and do nothing else. I read and or listen to a lot books and I will never forget this one.
I was swept up into this heartbreaking story that I thought would leave me with a sadness I wouldn’t be able to shake. I was wrong. The ending had closer and a hope of a future. I was very satisfied with the ending.
The audiobook was read by Katie Villa and she did a fantastic job. I can not say enough good things about her. I hope you’re brave enough to listen to this one! It’s a must read.
Thanks Dreamscape Media via Netgalley.
I was warned it had a lot of abuse, heartbreaking, sometimes difficult subject matter. To me it was all worth it, even necessary. I myself have suffered from a traumatic childhood and could relate to this story. Having said all that I fell hard. Loved the writing that was a moving, brilliant powerfully realistic. Luisa A. Jones is a new author on my radar and she captivated. Her characters shared their inner thoughts and struggles with the time period. I was there.
I just wanted to listen to this and do nothing else. I read and or listen to a lot books and I will never forget this one.
I was swept up into this heartbreaking story that I thought would leave me with a sadness I wouldn’t be able to shake. I was wrong. The ending had closer and a hope of a future. I was very satisfied with the ending.
The audiobook was read by Katie Villa and she did a fantastic job. I can not say enough good things about her. I hope you’re brave enough to listen to this one! It’s a must read.
Thanks Dreamscape Media via Netgalley.
June 11, 2023
The Gilded Cage is an unforgettable powerful historical tale that gripped my heart and shook it fiercely. I spent many hours reading late into the night unable to put this book down. It had me entranced as it is so incredibly well written. I was fully transported back in time to 1897 and placed in an English setting, captivated by a believable cast of characters and mesmerised by a riveting plot. I was immersed on all fronts by this incredible story. The prose is magnificent with a number of beautiful heartfelt love scenes. But just as the author wields enchanting romantic moments of tender love, she also shows the extreme opposite in the controlling violent acts of an abusive relationship. Even at the other end of the spectrum, she writes with such force that the descriptions made me flinch in horror. It caused me to feel the pain this woman endured. And my heart throbbed with distaste for the man who inflicted such evil on her.
This novel realistically covers the many social class issues of the time. Arranged marriages were still certainly part of English society in the late 1800s and when a woman’s father died, she could lose everything and be left defenceless in the hands of others less caring. Or as this novel shows, thrust into a gilded cage at the mercy of a ruthless master. Luisa paints a true and jarring picture.
Rosamund is the daughter of a baron. But when he passes on, her brother sells her off to a man (Sir Lucien) who wants to control her for his own evil purposes. She is forced into marriage, stripped of her dignity, immobilised and traumatised by her husband’s cruelty. Eventually she is unable to function from years of abuse. Rosamund becomes a shell void of spirit, lifeless and colourless. The negative psychological effects are real and we can imagine this clearly.
But then someone steps into her life and shows her love. Her inner life begins to change, to tilt toward the light. This positive attention puts a spark back into her heart and forces the shadows to retreat. It starts with the motorcar and learning to drive. There were very few women drivers back then but she has read about them and wants to follow in their footsteps. And when she takes it on herself to learn from Joseph the chauffeur, while her abusive husband is away in London, it gives her a sense of freedom she has not known since the death of her father. This first experience of stepping out gives her confidence and courage to begin to fight back. But there are repercussions as you’d expect. There’s a spy in the camp. And although she has setbacks, her journey to freedom continues. But there are unexpected twists and turns. And others come into her life with kindness and gifts. Healing is on the horizon and justice, too, for this woman who has suffered immensely.
There are some Downton Abbey-like scenes in this novel—especially passages with the staff but they are used well for positive effect. I particularly liked Rosamund’s maid, Nellie, who gets to tell her side of the story. She became a wonderful ally and helped Rosamund through some rough times. Besides Rosamund and Nellie, we also get the viewpoints of Joseph and Mary. Even the abusive husband gets to say his share—and we can see the darkness of his heart not only in his actions but in his thoughts.
Rosamund compares her life to a modern day fairy-tale complete with a curse and ogre. In many ways she is right as she certainly has been trapped in a tower of loss, sorrow, violence and despair. But thankfully, there is a rescue but it is by her own hands, not a chivalrous prince. Without revealing anything specific, I can say she becomes the ‘driver of her own destiny’. In this way, the author delivers an apt modern ending—a positive resolution. Slivers of joy and seeds of hope rise from a bed of ashes proving there can be freedom at the end of a dark and twisting tunnel. And beautiful love can bloom after the damage of scars. I am really glad I read this novel. It is a beacon of encouragement for the abused. A healing balm for a troubled soul. And a literary triumph for the insightful reader. The Gilded Cage is profound and expertly crafted. I highly recommend this powerful novel. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my review copy.
This novel realistically covers the many social class issues of the time. Arranged marriages were still certainly part of English society in the late 1800s and when a woman’s father died, she could lose everything and be left defenceless in the hands of others less caring. Or as this novel shows, thrust into a gilded cage at the mercy of a ruthless master. Luisa paints a true and jarring picture.
Rosamund is the daughter of a baron. But when he passes on, her brother sells her off to a man (Sir Lucien) who wants to control her for his own evil purposes. She is forced into marriage, stripped of her dignity, immobilised and traumatised by her husband’s cruelty. Eventually she is unable to function from years of abuse. Rosamund becomes a shell void of spirit, lifeless and colourless. The negative psychological effects are real and we can imagine this clearly.
But then someone steps into her life and shows her love. Her inner life begins to change, to tilt toward the light. This positive attention puts a spark back into her heart and forces the shadows to retreat. It starts with the motorcar and learning to drive. There were very few women drivers back then but she has read about them and wants to follow in their footsteps. And when she takes it on herself to learn from Joseph the chauffeur, while her abusive husband is away in London, it gives her a sense of freedom she has not known since the death of her father. This first experience of stepping out gives her confidence and courage to begin to fight back. But there are repercussions as you’d expect. There’s a spy in the camp. And although she has setbacks, her journey to freedom continues. But there are unexpected twists and turns. And others come into her life with kindness and gifts. Healing is on the horizon and justice, too, for this woman who has suffered immensely.
There are some Downton Abbey-like scenes in this novel—especially passages with the staff but they are used well for positive effect. I particularly liked Rosamund’s maid, Nellie, who gets to tell her side of the story. She became a wonderful ally and helped Rosamund through some rough times. Besides Rosamund and Nellie, we also get the viewpoints of Joseph and Mary. Even the abusive husband gets to say his share—and we can see the darkness of his heart not only in his actions but in his thoughts.
Rosamund compares her life to a modern day fairy-tale complete with a curse and ogre. In many ways she is right as she certainly has been trapped in a tower of loss, sorrow, violence and despair. But thankfully, there is a rescue but it is by her own hands, not a chivalrous prince. Without revealing anything specific, I can say she becomes the ‘driver of her own destiny’. In this way, the author delivers an apt modern ending—a positive resolution. Slivers of joy and seeds of hope rise from a bed of ashes proving there can be freedom at the end of a dark and twisting tunnel. And beautiful love can bloom after the damage of scars. I am really glad I read this novel. It is a beacon of encouragement for the abused. A healing balm for a troubled soul. And a literary triumph for the insightful reader. The Gilded Cage is profound and expertly crafted. I highly recommend this powerful novel. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my review copy.
June 1, 2023
Set in 1897, The Gilded Cage is a gut-wrenching Historical Fiction novel about despair, sorrow and courage with slivers of hope. Rosamund marries Sir Lucien Fitznorton who is far from a gentleman. He horrendously abuses his second wife in every way imaginable. Household staff members know what is going on but their hands are tied. Fitznorton's new chauffeur is shocked that Rosamund speaks to him but they strike up a friendship which is not bound by social class. They are also both married which inevitably becomes an issue.
The story is told with passion and gorgeous prose with wonderful historical detail including the dawn of motoring, social mores and class divisions. Characterization has a depth which is often lacking in similar books. Reading it was akin to appreciating music or art.
I liked the direction the author went with to end the story. Do be sure to read her notes at the back, too, Please take heed of the warnings of graphic abuse and loss.
My sincere thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this emotive novel.
The story is told with passion and gorgeous prose with wonderful historical detail including the dawn of motoring, social mores and class divisions. Characterization has a depth which is often lacking in similar books. Reading it was akin to appreciating music or art.
I liked the direction the author went with to end the story. Do be sure to read her notes at the back, too, Please take heed of the warnings of graphic abuse and loss.
My sincere thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this emotive novel.
October 17, 2023
I’m really glad I decided to finish this book! It definitely kept my interest (which has been difficult lately) and, I listened all day until the end.
I couldn’t figure out how it could end happily for all of the main characters considering the situations they were placed in. Somehow, Luisa Jones managed to completely fool me at the end.
I won’t say more because it may contain spoilers. If you can get through the abuse and child loss, it’s a page turner.
I couldn’t figure out how it could end happily for all of the main characters considering the situations they were placed in. Somehow, Luisa Jones managed to completely fool me at the end.
I won’t say more because it may contain spoilers. If you can get through the abuse and child loss, it’s a page turner.
July 27, 2023
When Rose Pelham lost her elderly father her brother couldn’t wait to get her married off and claimed he had no way to support her the day she met Lucius Fitz at first she was just slightly annoyed but once she realized her brother invited the elderly overweight man to be her suitor she almost fainted. Little did she know his age and size would be the least offensive about him. He was abusive and fed off of her fright and when he was away lol to taunt and tease her with what was coming her way. For over 10 years her life was a lonely misery that is until Lucius bought an auto car and needed a chauffeur. This is when Joseph Katwala came into the picture. She fell into his kindness like a thirsty woman and before she knew it he wanted her just as much the only problem is he was married with seven children but when rumors go around in the butler couldn’t wait to let the Lucius know what his wife was up to while he was in England it doesn’t look good for any of them. After all Sir Lucius‘s first wife died from mysterious circumstances or if you believe the servant he killed her. This book was so so good and although it was 13 hours long it did not feel like that at all it blew by . Not only that the narrator does such a superb job doing the male and female voices and hills a best array of talent to pull from she can do multi women talking and you can’t even tell it is the same person she is so awesome having said that I usually do not like stories where people cheat with other Maori people but this book was so beautifully done and heartwarming and it doesn’t end like normal historical regency romances usually do and OMG if this isn’t the most legitimate Victorian era romance I have ever read absolutely love this book and would give it 10 stars if I could. I want to thank dreamscape media and net galley for my free arc copy. Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
August 13, 2023
I had been eagerly awaiting reading this historical tale and was devastated when my request was declined on Netgalley. However, I managed to purchase the title anyway such was my desire to read it. And I was not disappointed! I love losing myself in sweeping historical tales and this one was no different. It had a Downton-esque element to it with perspectives from the servants as well as the lady of the house. But it also has a much darker side, one that is sensitively handled despite its horrific nature.
Beginning in 1897, Rosamund Pelham is dealt a savage blow when her brother Tristram marries her off to the aging and ghastly Sir Lucien Fitznorton, citing debts left by their father and having to sell her childhood home with no means with which to keep her in the manner to which she is accustomed. But nothing could prepare her for marriage to Sir Lucien. From their wedding night, he staked his claim on the virginal Rosamund using brute force and taking what he saw as rightfully his. His abuse is horrendous and depraved, abusing her in every way imaginable. And sixteen years later, the once bright vivacious young woman is silenced and now trapped within a gilded cage.
Household staff suspect what goes on but theirs is not to reason why nor to question their betters. But what makes them better? Class, power, money, aristocracy...certainly not morality, kindness or compassion. Lady Fitznorton's ladies maid, Nellie Dawson, is perhaps the closest to her ladyship to see the damage he leaves behind. The bruises on her wrists, back, neck, the scratches and welts across her breasts, the cigar burns on her abdomen, the scratches on her thighs. Yes, his Lordship may be aristocracy but he is a brute and a cruel one at that. Every morning, Nellie bathes Rosamund's wounds and draws a bath filled with lavender scent to ease her aches left from the previous night's brutal ministrations. Immobilised and traumatised by her husband's cruelty, Rosamund is eventually unable to function and becomes a shell of herself, devoid of life and spirit. Her one rebellion is to refuse food so that she may have that little bit of control that would keep her body repugnant from him. But still it doesn't stop his abuse.
When Sir Lucien purchases a new motor car, he also employs a new chaffaeur with the engineering and mechanical expertise needed to maintain it. And so Rosamund meets Joseph, who unwittingly steps into her life and shows her kindness again. When Sir Lucien and his spoilt daughter Charlotte travel to London, Rosamund uses her new-found freedom to learn to drive and undertakes Joseph to teach her. The experience is as exhilerating as it is dangerous, for if any staff loyal to Sir Lucien himself were to choose they could report her activities to her husband who would then find new ways of torturing her. And pay for it, she will, make no mistake. Still, Rosamund gains a confidence she has not felt since the passing of her dear papa. But is it enough to see her through what is to come? For doubtless, there will be repercussions. Esepcially as rumours begin to fly about Rosamund spending so much time with the chaffeur, and soon she realises that may have endangered not only herself but that of Joseph and his position at Plas Norton.
Oh, how I loved this book! I devoured it late into the night and then immediately picked it up the following morning and would not put it down until I had turned the last page. And even then, it left me wanting more. And yet, it ended just perfectly. I loved the Epilogue and thought it the perfect ending through Nellie's eyes.
This book is perfect for fans of "Downton Abbey" or any historical fiction and will appreciate the Downton-esque similarities throughout. I particularly like Rosamund's maid, Nellie, who has very aptly a voice in this story and while she may have thought her ladyship to be cold and aloof to begin with, it isn't long before loyalty wins and she becomes a wonderful ally, fighting Rosamund's corner from below the stairs. My heart went out to Rosamund who finds herself trapped in a marriage to an abusive brute from which she sees no escape. Lusia's elaborate depiction of the abuse and its psychological trauma is both horrendous as well as accurate. The description of Rosamund's curling into a foetal position to protect herself; her seemingly cold and aloof nature; her act of rebellion to starve herself; her entire demeanour is one of resignation to her circumstances. She sees no end in sight to the torment inflicted on her night after night after night and the new and depraved ways in which her husband finds to further humiliate and control her, to keep her wings clipped and trapped in her gilded cage for all eternity. It is heartbreaking to read and one can be forgiven for feeling a rage towards the brute who mistreats her so. Honestly, it is difficult to see her so broken and terrified of her husband. His voice was the most brutal of all.
And then there is Joseph. Normally, I don't reconcile infidelity in any way but fiction is fiction and anything goes. And while we do venture into Lady Chatterley territory, I still feel it is done sensitively. Joseph allowed Rosamund to find her confidence, her inner strength and the courage to step out of that cage that kept her bound for so long. He also gives his voice to the story along with that of his wife Mary, and it leaves the reader to wonder just how this will all play out.
There is so much to love about this book, as well as some not to like. But the ending was a surprise. I didn't see it taking that road but it was a lovely divergent to the tangled mess left behind otherwise.
Expertly crafted, THE GILDED CAGE is a heartbreaking tale of despair, sorrow, strength and resilience. But it is also one of hope. I cannot praise this book highly enough and I will eagerly look out for more of the author's work if this one is anything to go by.
A well deserved 5 stars!
#LuisaAJones
#StormPublishing
#TheGildedCage
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Beginning in 1897, Rosamund Pelham is dealt a savage blow when her brother Tristram marries her off to the aging and ghastly Sir Lucien Fitznorton, citing debts left by their father and having to sell her childhood home with no means with which to keep her in the manner to which she is accustomed. But nothing could prepare her for marriage to Sir Lucien. From their wedding night, he staked his claim on the virginal Rosamund using brute force and taking what he saw as rightfully his. His abuse is horrendous and depraved, abusing her in every way imaginable. And sixteen years later, the once bright vivacious young woman is silenced and now trapped within a gilded cage.
Household staff suspect what goes on but theirs is not to reason why nor to question their betters. But what makes them better? Class, power, money, aristocracy...certainly not morality, kindness or compassion. Lady Fitznorton's ladies maid, Nellie Dawson, is perhaps the closest to her ladyship to see the damage he leaves behind. The bruises on her wrists, back, neck, the scratches and welts across her breasts, the cigar burns on her abdomen, the scratches on her thighs. Yes, his Lordship may be aristocracy but he is a brute and a cruel one at that. Every morning, Nellie bathes Rosamund's wounds and draws a bath filled with lavender scent to ease her aches left from the previous night's brutal ministrations. Immobilised and traumatised by her husband's cruelty, Rosamund is eventually unable to function and becomes a shell of herself, devoid of life and spirit. Her one rebellion is to refuse food so that she may have that little bit of control that would keep her body repugnant from him. But still it doesn't stop his abuse.
When Sir Lucien purchases a new motor car, he also employs a new chaffaeur with the engineering and mechanical expertise needed to maintain it. And so Rosamund meets Joseph, who unwittingly steps into her life and shows her kindness again. When Sir Lucien and his spoilt daughter Charlotte travel to London, Rosamund uses her new-found freedom to learn to drive and undertakes Joseph to teach her. The experience is as exhilerating as it is dangerous, for if any staff loyal to Sir Lucien himself were to choose they could report her activities to her husband who would then find new ways of torturing her. And pay for it, she will, make no mistake. Still, Rosamund gains a confidence she has not felt since the passing of her dear papa. But is it enough to see her through what is to come? For doubtless, there will be repercussions. Esepcially as rumours begin to fly about Rosamund spending so much time with the chaffeur, and soon she realises that may have endangered not only herself but that of Joseph and his position at Plas Norton.
Oh, how I loved this book! I devoured it late into the night and then immediately picked it up the following morning and would not put it down until I had turned the last page. And even then, it left me wanting more. And yet, it ended just perfectly. I loved the Epilogue and thought it the perfect ending through Nellie's eyes.
This book is perfect for fans of "Downton Abbey" or any historical fiction and will appreciate the Downton-esque similarities throughout. I particularly like Rosamund's maid, Nellie, who has very aptly a voice in this story and while she may have thought her ladyship to be cold and aloof to begin with, it isn't long before loyalty wins and she becomes a wonderful ally, fighting Rosamund's corner from below the stairs. My heart went out to Rosamund who finds herself trapped in a marriage to an abusive brute from which she sees no escape. Lusia's elaborate depiction of the abuse and its psychological trauma is both horrendous as well as accurate. The description of Rosamund's curling into a foetal position to protect herself; her seemingly cold and aloof nature; her act of rebellion to starve herself; her entire demeanour is one of resignation to her circumstances. She sees no end in sight to the torment inflicted on her night after night after night and the new and depraved ways in which her husband finds to further humiliate and control her, to keep her wings clipped and trapped in her gilded cage for all eternity. It is heartbreaking to read and one can be forgiven for feeling a rage towards the brute who mistreats her so. Honestly, it is difficult to see her so broken and terrified of her husband. His voice was the most brutal of all.
And then there is Joseph. Normally, I don't reconcile infidelity in any way but fiction is fiction and anything goes. And while we do venture into Lady Chatterley territory, I still feel it is done sensitively. Joseph allowed Rosamund to find her confidence, her inner strength and the courage to step out of that cage that kept her bound for so long. He also gives his voice to the story along with that of his wife Mary, and it leaves the reader to wonder just how this will all play out.
There is so much to love about this book, as well as some not to like. But the ending was a surprise. I didn't see it taking that road but it was a lovely divergent to the tangled mess left behind otherwise.
Expertly crafted, THE GILDED CAGE is a heartbreaking tale of despair, sorrow, strength and resilience. But it is also one of hope. I cannot praise this book highly enough and I will eagerly look out for more of the author's work if this one is anything to go by.
A well deserved 5 stars!
#LuisaAJones
#StormPublishing
#TheGildedCage
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
June 22, 2023
A great read despite the domestic violence elaborately depicted, because of the accurate insight into the psychological side of the beaten wife, and also because the historical and social background were well reflected in the novel. Some of the characters were not so finely drawn (Blanche, the stepdaughter, for instance). I found Blanche's character a bit over the top and rather a cliché of the spoiled prat. On the other hand the horrid husband was very convincing. The conclusion was for me satisfying, but not what I might have predicted.....
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this novel from NetGalley and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this novel from NetGalley and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.
June 24, 2023
It’s 1897 and Rosamund has no choice, her father has died and she is becoming a financial burden to her brother.
So she becomes the second wife to Sir Lucien Fitznorton, a brute of a man, who certainly behind closed doors is no gentleman, and treats her cruelly and abusively.
While Sir Fitznorton and his daughter spend time in London, Lady Rosamund is increasingly drawn to the new chauffeur, who she asks to teach her to drive, to help her escape the gilded cage of marriage
Loved the premise of the book - set in Edwardian England, women didn’t have much choice but to marry.
Rosamund was a fascinating lovable character who would not be broken no matter how often her husband abused her
All the other characters were honest and believable - you could just imagine them working at Dowtown Abbey
A very enjoyable read - thanks @taffy-lulu, @stormbooks_uk & @netgalley for the eARC
So she becomes the second wife to Sir Lucien Fitznorton, a brute of a man, who certainly behind closed doors is no gentleman, and treats her cruelly and abusively.
While Sir Fitznorton and his daughter spend time in London, Lady Rosamund is increasingly drawn to the new chauffeur, who she asks to teach her to drive, to help her escape the gilded cage of marriage
Loved the premise of the book - set in Edwardian England, women didn’t have much choice but to marry.
Rosamund was a fascinating lovable character who would not be broken no matter how often her husband abused her
All the other characters were honest and believable - you could just imagine them working at Dowtown Abbey
A very enjoyable read - thanks @taffy-lulu, @stormbooks_uk & @netgalley for the eARC
June 22, 2023
The novel's title is very apt. And, as I read it, the old musical hall tune: only a bird in a gilded cage, sold for an old man's gold was playing through my brain like an earworm. I found this tale moving and compelling and I thought there would be no escape for the heroine, but I was wrong. In many cultures, women learning to drive is still a taboo and you can see why - it is the road to freedom for many women in abusive relationships, not just marriages. I thought this was a very powerful novel for a debut and the author didn't shy away from describing the heartbreaking abuse the heroine suffered at the hands of her husband. I look forward to reading another of this author's work.
March 28, 2024
Excellent start to a new series for me. I'm always open to read about strong women and what they do to better themselves in life, but in "The Gilded Cage" by Luisa A. Jones the female protagonist is put into a situation that no one would be able to survive, yet she keeps fighting over and over again. I like the bad characters in my books to be just that, bad, but this woman's husband takes the cake for his cruelty towards his wife. It's unbelievable what this poor woman had to survive without any help from anyone in her life. I found this to be a great book, but it was hard to read at times. Happy Reading!
February 8, 2024
Well wow. Not only do I have a school friend who is an author, but she has written a book that is really good and I’m going to recommend to everyone.
Brilliant work Luisa, great writing and a subject matter that was really hard to deal with at times but that made it unputdownable, I really needed to find out what happened next. Thanks for a fab read. Xxx
Brilliant work Luisa, great writing and a subject matter that was really hard to deal with at times but that made it unputdownable, I really needed to find out what happened next. Thanks for a fab read. Xxx
January 12, 2024
Totally fell in love with this book and the characters within it. I only picked it up because I recognised the house on the front cover, and I certainly don’t regret it!
The pictures painted in the story are lifelike and believable, characters that you want to succeed (or fail!) and an ending that leaves you wanting more. Love the reference to Catullus.
This period drama is perfect for anyone who likes Downton Abbey and who likes to escape into their books.
The pictures painted in the story are lifelike and believable, characters that you want to succeed (or fail!) and an ending that leaves you wanting more. Love the reference to Catullus.
This period drama is perfect for anyone who likes Downton Abbey and who likes to escape into their books.
November 30, 2023
WHAT A HEARTBREAKING STORY!!
I absolutely loved this book & I didn't want to put it down! Poor Rosamund what she went through with that husband of hers oh my gosh how horrid!! A cliffhanger I can't wait to read book 2! I highly recommend this book for those that like to read historical fiction books in the during the gilded age u won't be disappointed.
I absolutely loved this book & I didn't want to put it down! Poor Rosamund what she went through with that husband of hers oh my gosh how horrid!! A cliffhanger I can't wait to read book 2! I highly recommend this book for those that like to read historical fiction books in the during the gilded age u won't be disappointed.
March 18, 2024
Historical fiction isn't my favorite because it distubs me how women were treated. That being said, I did enjoy this book enough that I'll probably read the sequel at some point.
February 25, 2024
Historical fiction that very quickly paints the picture of a marriage hastily arranged by her brother, to a widowed older man. He is very cruel to Rosamund emotionally, physically and sexually. His brutality knows no bounds. His young daughter from his first marriage does not take to her new stepmother and this adds to Rosamunds pain. Unable to bare an heir due to her husbands abuse, understandably she seeks solace elsewhere.
A story of arranged marriage vividly illustrated by the writer and the characters really come to life. You cannot help but champion poor Rosalind.
A story of arranged marriage vividly illustrated by the writer and the characters really come to life. You cannot help but champion poor Rosalind.
June 19, 2024
I loved it but I hate it. Why would u do that 2 me
August 5, 2024
This book was so good, I am going to read book two, “The Broken Vow “.
September 1, 2023
This book had me hooked from the first page. Sometimes a little uneasy to read but it added to the storyline. Great settings along with great characters portrayed perfectly for that era.
February 16, 2024
well written
As I read I thought- Lady Chatterly’s Lover.
The book and characters developed as I read on and I believe I have to now know what going to happen in the sequel. C
As I read I thought- Lady Chatterly’s Lover.
The book and characters developed as I read on and I believe I have to now know what going to happen in the sequel. C
April 23, 2024
Really great writing, told a beautiful story that I couldn’t put down. That being said there are major trigger warnings concerning abuse that made parts of the book hard to read. I’ll definitely be reading the sequel to get more!
April 21, 2024
Jean38no
A lovely historical romance. I couldn’t put it down and read to the wee hours of the morning. Loved the ending. Can’t wait to read the sequel,
A lovely historical romance. I couldn’t put it down and read to the wee hours of the morning. Loved the ending. Can’t wait to read the sequel,
August 16, 2023
The Gilded Cage was one of the best realistic historical fiction audiobooks I’ve ever listened to. The narrator and author had me so engrossed in this story. There are many complex subjects in the book that might trigger some, so please keep this in mind.
This is Rosamund's heartbreaking story set in 1987; it's a realistic tale of the many social class issues of the time as Rosmond finds herself after the death of her beloved father. Her brother gives her only one choice: marry Sir Lucien Fitznorton and become his second wife and stepmother to his daughter. All Sir Lucien wants is an heir and a beautiful plaything, and as the years go by without him getting his heir, life for Rosmand worsens. Rosmand soon finds herself in a dangerous web of secrets, desires, hope, violence, and lies. Her Gilded Cage
I am in awe of the author's words; the way she told us this story was marvelous, and I have not read or listened to anything as good as this was to me. The audiobook was narrated by Katie Villa, who did such a fantastic job of bringing all the characters to life with her voice. I will be checking out her work in torture, as I believe I enjoyed the audiobook possibly more than if I had read it myself; she was that good at drawing you into the story.
This is Rosamund's heartbreaking story set in 1987; it's a realistic tale of the many social class issues of the time as Rosmond finds herself after the death of her beloved father. Her brother gives her only one choice: marry Sir Lucien Fitznorton and become his second wife and stepmother to his daughter. All Sir Lucien wants is an heir and a beautiful plaything, and as the years go by without him getting his heir, life for Rosmand worsens. Rosmand soon finds herself in a dangerous web of secrets, desires, hope, violence, and lies. Her Gilded Cage
I am in awe of the author's words; the way she told us this story was marvelous, and I have not read or listened to anything as good as this was to me. The audiobook was narrated by Katie Villa, who did such a fantastic job of bringing all the characters to life with her voice. I will be checking out her work in torture, as I believe I enjoyed the audiobook possibly more than if I had read it myself; she was that good at drawing you into the story.
July 25, 2024
disturbing but so well written
I almost gave this book 3 stars because of some of the subject matter in the book, but if I am being honest with myself, it is so well written and the fact that it made me uneasy in parts accounts to that.
I almost gave this book 3 stars because of some of the subject matter in the book, but if I am being honest with myself, it is so well written and the fact that it made me uneasy in parts accounts to that.
August 21, 2023
Sad Story
This is about an abused woman who is held prisoner in part of the book. She decides to learn to drive and becomes involved with the chauffeur. Most of the story’s very sad but eventually it gets better.
This is about an abused woman who is held prisoner in part of the book. She decides to learn to drive and becomes involved with the chauffeur. Most of the story’s very sad but eventually it gets better.
August 19, 2023
The Gilded Cage
By Luisa A. Jones
Genre:
Romance, Women’s fiction
Red Flags:
VERY HEAVY CONTENT: Domestic Abuse, Infidelity (many scenes required me skipping), Sorrow, Loss
Summary:
After the loss of her father, Rosamund becomes a financial burden to her brother. Therefore, she has no other choice than to become the second wife to Sir Lucien Fitznorton. He is known in society as a gentleman, however, behind closed doors, he makes Rosamund’s life miserable. Then Joseph enters the novel, as the newest hired chauffeur, he quickly notices the stern and harsh way Sir Lucien Fitznorton treats his wife. While away on an extended trip with his daughter, Sir Lucien Fitznorton receives word of some events happening between his wife and his chauffeur back at home, and so ensues the family saga of “The Gilded Cage.”
Review:
Luisa Jones is an excellent writer who knows how to draw in a reader with beautiful historical descriptions, deep relatable characters, and suspenseful situations. I struggle reading about abuse and infidelity which are the heavy topics of this novel for that reason, I am rating this a 3.5. If these topics are sensitive to you, I would avoid this novel. If you can handle these situations, you will enjoy this read!
Thank you to Luisa Jones, Storm Publishing, and Netgalley for the Advanced Readers Copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
*** I listened to this audio and it was a little harder to listen with the content.
#reluctantreaderreads
#Thegildedcage
#LuisaAJones
#macmillanaudio
#netgalley
#advancedreadereditions
By Luisa A. Jones
Genre:
Romance, Women’s fiction
Red Flags:
VERY HEAVY CONTENT: Domestic Abuse, Infidelity (many scenes required me skipping), Sorrow, Loss
Summary:
After the loss of her father, Rosamund becomes a financial burden to her brother. Therefore, she has no other choice than to become the second wife to Sir Lucien Fitznorton. He is known in society as a gentleman, however, behind closed doors, he makes Rosamund’s life miserable. Then Joseph enters the novel, as the newest hired chauffeur, he quickly notices the stern and harsh way Sir Lucien Fitznorton treats his wife. While away on an extended trip with his daughter, Sir Lucien Fitznorton receives word of some events happening between his wife and his chauffeur back at home, and so ensues the family saga of “The Gilded Cage.”
Review:
Luisa Jones is an excellent writer who knows how to draw in a reader with beautiful historical descriptions, deep relatable characters, and suspenseful situations. I struggle reading about abuse and infidelity which are the heavy topics of this novel for that reason, I am rating this a 3.5. If these topics are sensitive to you, I would avoid this novel. If you can handle these situations, you will enjoy this read!
Thank you to Luisa Jones, Storm Publishing, and Netgalley for the Advanced Readers Copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
*** I listened to this audio and it was a little harder to listen with the content.
#reluctantreaderreads
#Thegildedcage
#LuisaAJones
#macmillanaudio
#netgalley
#advancedreadereditions
July 20, 2024
Good historical fiction drama: Set in the early 1900s when women were property and married off for the sake of money. Rosamund got a horrible husband…I mean deplorable…and he traumatized her and she slowly tries to find herself and fight back with the help of Joe and his motorcar. Apparently we get to see more of her in book 2, when he step daughter becomes the focus. I am glad there’s a book 2 because it feels like there’s more to Rosamunds story!
August 2, 2023
Before you get into The Gilded Cage, it is incredibly important that you check the content warning. The main plot line is a major trigger for some people, so please look before you read or listen to this book.
That being said, The Gilded Cage is the first audiobook I've ever listened to and I was pleasantly surprised. Some parts were difficult to hear just because of the content, but there are characters who are written for you to hate and Luisa A. Jones definitely get a good job at that. There are also characters that you're supposed to feel for and hearing their dialogue instead of just reading it made me feel a little more for them.
The story follows Rosamund as she's thrust into a marriage drawn up by her brother. Her husband, Lucien, is known for not being the nicest of men, but Rosamund finds out just how far his cruelty goes. Things begin to look up for Rosamund when Joseph is brought on to be Lucien's new motorcar driver. The two of them end up spending a lot of time together and built a friendship, even though it's technically against social rules since Joseph is staff. With this new friendship, Rosamund feels empowered to take her life into her own hands and does so more than one time... While neither Joseph or Rosamund expected to end up in the situations they are left in at the end the book, they're both in better places physically and mentally.
I gave The Gilded Cage four stars because I had hoped it would end differently. While I was absolutely shocked toward the end, I was disappointed with the outcome, but that's only because I'm a huge sucker for renewal stories, especially when love is involved. I understand why it ended the way it did and that it was supposed to be that way. My sappy heart is just sad that a potential future no longer exists...
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
That being said, The Gilded Cage is the first audiobook I've ever listened to and I was pleasantly surprised. Some parts were difficult to hear just because of the content, but there are characters who are written for you to hate and Luisa A. Jones definitely get a good job at that. There are also characters that you're supposed to feel for and hearing their dialogue instead of just reading it made me feel a little more for them.
The story follows Rosamund as she's thrust into a marriage drawn up by her brother. Her husband, Lucien, is known for not being the nicest of men, but Rosamund finds out just how far his cruelty goes. Things begin to look up for Rosamund when Joseph is brought on to be Lucien's new motorcar driver. The two of them end up spending a lot of time together and built a friendship, even though it's technically against social rules since Joseph is staff. With this new friendship, Rosamund feels empowered to take her life into her own hands and does so more than one time... While neither Joseph or Rosamund expected to end up in the situations they are left in at the end the book, they're both in better places physically and mentally.
I gave The Gilded Cage four stars because I had hoped it would end differently. While I was absolutely shocked toward the end, I was disappointed with the outcome, but that's only because I'm a huge sucker for renewal stories, especially when love is involved. I understand why it ended the way it did and that it was supposed to be that way. My sappy heart is just sad that a potential future no longer exists...
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 14, 2023
A realistic heartbreaking story of spousal abuse set in 1897. Rosamund story will have you pausing several times so that you can collect yourself to continue to read. But do finish reading it, the ending isn’t quite what you would expect. But very good ending to a story that unfortunately still happens today.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #NetGalley #TheGiltedCage
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #NetGalley #TheGiltedCage
July 23, 2023
I was given an early audiobook but remiss in getting it to the top of my TBR. If you enjoy historical fiction and even if you don’t ,you won’t want to pass this one by. It is the best I have read this year! Once I started listening to this audiobook, I didn’t want to stop. I enjoyed it do much, the cruelty and abuse that occurs is hard to listen to especially as I became “friends with Rosamund. One such cruelty was for her husband,Lucien to cause her to have four miscarriages and then for him to complain she hadn’t provided him with a son. Although he already has a son and daughter from his first wife. The children are old enough to have been sent off to boarding school where their aunt tends to their needs so Lucien’s fore to do as.he pleases. Once married to Rosamund, he frequents Paris to take up dalliances with the Parisian women. Then come home and beat his wife then rape her. She had that to look forward to every time he left.Not only did she feel like their home was a gilded cage. But also her marriage was one too. The new chauffeur that Lucien had hired along with his mechanic son. Gets the new car tuned and spotless. Use the car to chauffeur Lucien everywhere he needs to go. Turning heads by the beauty of the car. The chauffeur, Joe, convinces the staff and Rosamund it would be a good idea for her to learn how to drive. The next trip Lucien leaves for weeks they start their driving lessons and become quite fond of each other. Both are married he with a wife and nine children. Fondness turns to love and all he wants to do is drive out of here with his arm around Rosamund driving away from everything tying them down but knowing Lucien would have the state police out looking for a very recognizable car and tell them that the pair had stolen it. Lucien was very cleaver to not put Rosamund’s name attached to anything. The thrilling part ensues. I highly recommend this book. Thanks to the following for allowing me an early read,
#NetGalley
#DreamscapeMedia,
#GildedCage
#LuisaA.Jones
Publication Date: July 11, 2023
Give it a listen for your next beach/pool or just because listen, you will be swept back in time..
#NetGalley
#DreamscapeMedia,
#GildedCage
#LuisaA.Jones
Publication Date: July 11, 2023
Give it a listen for your next beach/pool or just because listen, you will be swept back in time..
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