Lessons in Expectations

by Ginny Hartman

Trapped by their duties, constrained by society's expectations, a cast of characters set in Victorian England must navigate a world where they are forced to behave in ways that aren't congruent with who they really are.

A couple's forbidden love caused by a difference in stations. A debutante with an eating disorder that stems from the cruel expectations of others. A passionate woman stifled by the verbal and emotional abuse of her caretaker. A duke's heir who has finally found a woman who intrigues him but is kept from following his heart by a manipulative father with a hidden agenda of his own.

Emmeline, Alexandra, and Cecily's lives intertwine in surprising ways as consequences ensue because of the paths they are pressured into taking. Can happiness ever be found while living contrary to whom they long to be?

349 pages, Paperback

First published August 4, 2020

Reviews

[Colin Bell · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very difficult book to write a review on. Set in Victorian times this is is a story that wouldn't be of place in a Regency romance. Emmeline, Alexandra, and Cecily have lives that intertwine in unexpected ways, along with the men in their lives. Full of romantic moments these are balanced against those with great sadness, abuse of power against self sacrifice. Not a feel good book, but one that will make you think whether a life of privilege would be worth the expectations that come with it but also the hope that life can bring.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however this did not influence my review.

[J.S.]

I seriously LOVE Ginny's books. This one brought new plot twists and turns that I was not expecting, which doesn't happen often. It surprised me in all the good ways.