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Sarah & Eleanor
When two well-born women run away from their homes in Kilkenny to live together, the genteel world of 18th century Ireland is scandalised. Not daunted, Lady Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby pursue their desire, and make a life together that is as happy and fulfilling as it is eccentric. Lovers of the romantic movement, and followers of the philosophies of Rousseau, they create a home in Llangollen in Northern Wales, and become known widely as the Ladies of Llangollen.
Before long, they are the focus of a group of people whose love of philosophy, literature and politics draws them to the beautiful garden and increasingly Gothic home that Sarah and Eleanor share, and they are loved and admired by all who spend time in their company. Increasingly freed from the restraints normally placed on women, but careful of their good name, they are earthy and satirical, intelligent and resourceful and capable of unexpected insights into the world around them.
Sarah's early experiences, particularly at the hands of her adopted uncle, and Eleanor's inability to meet the expectations of her aristocratic mother, lead them to view love and intimacy in ways that are unusual for their time, and their determination to succeed in their chosen way of life is underpinned by their devotion to each other.
Based on a true story, Sarah & Eleanor is a tale of betrayal, seduction, loneliness and desire. But mostly, it is a story of a love that endures through hardships and scandal, and leaves a legacy of achievement still admired today.
Before long, they are the focus of a group of people whose love of philosophy, literature and politics draws them to the beautiful garden and increasingly Gothic home that Sarah and Eleanor share, and they are loved and admired by all who spend time in their company. Increasingly freed from the restraints normally placed on women, but careful of their good name, they are earthy and satirical, intelligent and resourceful and capable of unexpected insights into the world around them.
Sarah's early experiences, particularly at the hands of her adopted uncle, and Eleanor's inability to meet the expectations of her aristocratic mother, lead them to view love and intimacy in ways that are unusual for their time, and their determination to succeed in their chosen way of life is underpinned by their devotion to each other.
Based on a true story, Sarah & Eleanor is a tale of betrayal, seduction, loneliness and desire. But mostly, it is a story of a love that endures through hardships and scandal, and leaves a legacy of achievement still admired today.
171 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 19, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
January 6, 2021
Quick and enjoyable read about actual historical figures.
February 11, 2021
So in looking for something new to read, I came across this novel about two figures from LGBT History I have always been curious about. I had heard mention of the Llangollen ladies in reading up about Anne Lister, and it intrigued me to learn more about them. I have to say, the author has brought these two women vividly to life. Sarah and Eleanor get fully flushed out backstories in this work, and I have to say, the research on this was really done right. And I like the fact that this did not devolve into steamy Victorian sapphistries (although Eleanor does experience some in the beginning of the book). These two women established a non sexual partnership and romance that I think anyone can admire even today. Definitely would highly recommend this for any lover of LGBT history.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews