Sophie isn't looking for only marriage. She wants to change the world with her writings. She's good-but naive about the reception by the powers that be. Her romance with the well-travelled and experienced Sebastian may not be regulation for the time but it sparks the story, including some humor when his sister is sent to him to protect (which she really isnt cooperating with). Lots of intrigue, well described fashion statements and well described characters made it an enjoyable read. The end left the French Revolution hanging over the characters' heads; although they were safe, it seems some were not far enough away. This read as a stand- alone story with a prequel and possible sequel. I was left wondering how many survive the next five or so years. Also confusing were comments about Arab men are controlling, but the.two Arab characters are anything but. Love was claimed as the reason. Or maybe they were unique , with unique relationships. It might take another book to clear that up.