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Island of the Swans
Re-issued in its original full length, this acclaimed and bestselling romantic historical novel by award-winning author Ciji Ware tells the true story of passionate and flamboyant Jane Maxwell, the 4th Duchess of Gordon (1749-1812). In love since childhood with Thomas Fraser, when she hears that he's been killed in America, she marries the Duke of Gordon with disastrous results. But Fraser, very much alive, returns to England to claim her love. In addition to telling a heart-wrenching love story, Island of the Swans also paints a fascinating portrait of a powerful and controversial woman and the tumultuous era in which she lived. Patroness of poet Robert Burns, advisor to King George, painted by Sir Joshua Reynolds, Jane Maxwell was a towering figure in her own time and is an unforgettable heroine.
581 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1989
91 people are currently reading
3644 people want to read
About the author
Ciji Ware
44 books259 followersCIJI WARE is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling novelist, an Emmy-award winning television producer, reporter, writer, lecturer, and host. Her latest work, THE SPY WORE LONG WHITE GLOVES (Book 4, American Spy Sisters series), published October 14, 2025 , was inspired by the exceptional American women who volunteered as "Churchill's Angles"--secret agents during WW II, fighting enemy infiltration within Britain, as well as parachuting into occupied France to fight the Nazis. As with her other novels, author Ware invites her readers to view her research photos at www.pinterest.com/cijiware/the-spy-wo...
Ware's Four Seasons Quartet "THAT..." series includes stand-alone titles set in CORNWALL, EDINBURGH, VENICE and PARIS that were released betweeen 2013-2017. A novella "The Ring of Kerry Hannigan," part of the RING OF TRUTH anthology with novelists Diana Dempsey and Kate Moore, was released as a single title in the spring of 2015.
Ware has won numerous awards for her 15 works of fiction, including the Dorothy Parker Award of Excellence; the 'Golden Quill' award for Historical Fiction; 'Best Fictionalized Biography' for her 18th c. historical novel, ISLAND OF THE SWANS. For the latter work, she was bestowed in Edinburgh the honor of FSA Scot, of which she is exceedingly proud. Another historical novel, A RACE TO SPLENDOR, debuted in April, 2011 on the 105th anniversary of the devastating 1905 San Francisco Earthquake and Firestorm and was short-listed for the WILLA (Cather) Literary Award in 2012.
In 2015, Ware was named to the Martha's Vineyard Writers-in-Residence program where she began a long-term project: REINVENTING...ME, a memoir of her years in all aspects of media. Currently, she is working on the second of two novels in her Spy Sisters series set in WWII based on the lives of several American women secret agents in the armed conflict.
Ware's most recent nonfiction, RIGHTSIZING YOUR LIFE: Simplifying Your Surroundings While Keeping What Matters Most, was named by the Wall Street Journal as "One of the Top 5 Books on Retirement Issues." She is at work on a sequel, SIMPLIFYING FOR SENIORS: Decluttering, Divesting, and Downsizing. She continues to lecture extensively on the subject of domestic downsizing for people age 50+ as she relates her own journey from 4000sq. feet of living space in Beverly Hills and Santa Barbara, down to a "cottage by the sea" of around 1000 square feet in the San Francisco Bay Area--and loving it! She is also the author of JOINT CUSTODY: Making Shared Parenting Work.
For eighteen years, Ware was heard daily as a commentator on ABC Radio & TV in Los Angeles. During her noted career as a broadcaster, she has worked as a reporter or anchor for PBS and all three major network affiliates, covering a wide range of topics in the areas of health, consumer, lifestyle and women's issues.
Ciji Ware is also a sought-after event speaker, print journalist, (AARP, Travel & Leisure and other national magazines) and has the distinction of being elected as the first woman graduate of Harvard College to serve as President of the Harvard Alumni Association, Worldwide. The author is married four decades+ to Internet marketing executive, Tony Cook. The "Cook-Wares" have a son, daughter-in-law, and three grandchildren.
Visit Ciji's website at www.cijiware.com; her Facebook page: Ciji Ware, Novelist
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ciji-Wa... and her Pinterest page at http://pinterest.com/cijiware/
Ware's Four Seasons Quartet "THAT..." series includes stand-alone titles set in CORNWALL, EDINBURGH, VENICE and PARIS that were released betweeen 2013-2017. A novella "The Ring of Kerry Hannigan," part of the RING OF TRUTH anthology with novelists Diana Dempsey and Kate Moore, was released as a single title in the spring of 2015.
Ware has won numerous awards for her 15 works of fiction, including the Dorothy Parker Award of Excellence; the 'Golden Quill' award for Historical Fiction; 'Best Fictionalized Biography' for her 18th c. historical novel, ISLAND OF THE SWANS. For the latter work, she was bestowed in Edinburgh the honor of FSA Scot, of which she is exceedingly proud. Another historical novel, A RACE TO SPLENDOR, debuted in April, 2011 on the 105th anniversary of the devastating 1905 San Francisco Earthquake and Firestorm and was short-listed for the WILLA (Cather) Literary Award in 2012.
In 2015, Ware was named to the Martha's Vineyard Writers-in-Residence program where she began a long-term project: REINVENTING...ME, a memoir of her years in all aspects of media. Currently, she is working on the second of two novels in her Spy Sisters series set in WWII based on the lives of several American women secret agents in the armed conflict.
Ware's most recent nonfiction, RIGHTSIZING YOUR LIFE: Simplifying Your Surroundings While Keeping What Matters Most, was named by the Wall Street Journal as "One of the Top 5 Books on Retirement Issues." She is at work on a sequel, SIMPLIFYING FOR SENIORS: Decluttering, Divesting, and Downsizing. She continues to lecture extensively on the subject of domestic downsizing for people age 50+ as she relates her own journey from 4000sq. feet of living space in Beverly Hills and Santa Barbara, down to a "cottage by the sea" of around 1000 square feet in the San Francisco Bay Area--and loving it! She is also the author of JOINT CUSTODY: Making Shared Parenting Work.
For eighteen years, Ware was heard daily as a commentator on ABC Radio & TV in Los Angeles. During her noted career as a broadcaster, she has worked as a reporter or anchor for PBS and all three major network affiliates, covering a wide range of topics in the areas of health, consumer, lifestyle and women's issues.
Ciji Ware is also a sought-after event speaker, print journalist, (AARP, Travel & Leisure and other national magazines) and has the distinction of being elected as the first woman graduate of Harvard College to serve as President of the Harvard Alumni Association, Worldwide. The author is married four decades+ to Internet marketing executive, Tony Cook. The "Cook-Wares" have a son, daughter-in-law, and three grandchildren.
Visit Ciji's website at www.cijiware.com; her Facebook page: Ciji Ware, Novelist
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ciji-Wa... and her Pinterest page at http://pinterest.com/cijiware/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
January 20, 2017
A willful, impulsive young lass named Jane Maxwell is the spawn of a drunken baronet and his controlling wife, who is persistent in finding a rich, titled son-in-law. Jane, however, is in love with Thomas Fraser, a young man whose family lost their lands and titles by attainder because of their support of Bonny Prince Charlie. When Thomas joins the Black Watch and sails for America, Jane is despondent. While there Fraser faces mortal injury. Jane finds comfort from Alexander Gordon, a Duke of Scotland, dashing and compassionate. Bah bah bah soap opera
Years pass, but feelings don't die. Jane's marriage turns her into a breeding cow, and she grows to despise Alexander, but she has valid reasons. Eventually she learns to accept her circumstances. She does the rounds, she ingratiate herself in Pitt's election as a rival of the Duchess of Devonshire, inspiring Pitt's ardor and Alex's jealousy. But then Alex seems to always be jealous. She even becomes the patroness of one Robert Burns. Regardless of what she chooses to do on life, whether if it is to build her own home in Kinrara, marry all of her daughters to nobility, or raise sheep, Thomas never leaves her thoughts.
Having read all of this dramatic love story, I decided to do a little research. In reality the Duke of Gordon had an affair with the youthful housekeeper and had children with her. Jane lived a separate life and had her own affairs. Thomas was one of many. 'Tis true she did not wish to abandon her children or her title, but there was no love lost between the two.
A book in similar vein is Forever Amber by Kathleen Winsor.
2017 Reading Challenge: set during wartime
Years pass, but feelings don't die. Jane's marriage turns her into a breeding cow, and she grows to despise Alexander, but she has valid reasons. Eventually she learns to accept her circumstances. She does the rounds, she ingratiate herself in Pitt's election as a rival of the Duchess of Devonshire, inspiring Pitt's ardor and Alex's jealousy. But then Alex seems to always be jealous. She even becomes the patroness of one Robert Burns. Regardless of what she chooses to do on life, whether if it is to build her own home in Kinrara, marry all of her daughters to nobility, or raise sheep, Thomas never leaves her thoughts.
Having read all of this dramatic love story, I decided to do a little research. In reality the Duke of Gordon had an affair with the youthful housekeeper and had children with her. Jane lived a separate life and had her own affairs. Thomas was one of many. 'Tis true she did not wish to abandon her children or her title, but there was no love lost between the two.
A book in similar vein is Forever Amber by Kathleen Winsor.
2017 Reading Challenge: set during wartime
July 31, 2011
Can't really decide between 2 or 3 stars so have plumped for 2.5!
This wasn't a bad book, but it annoyed me in several ways:-
1. It focused primarily on the (fictitious) love triangle rather than on the lives of the real people concerned.
2. It focused on general history of the period rather than on the lives of the real people concerned.
3. It was obvious that the author had done her research and she crammed in every fact she could which often made the story unwieldy and meant that the focus was taken off the real people concerned.
4. This book is really a historical romance and not historical fiction as I was led to believe.
5. I read this book to find out more about Jane Maxwell, but instead I get all the other stuff mentioned in the previous four points.
6. I actually found out more about the real Jane Maxwell by reading a short entry for her on Wikipedia, and by then reading the entries for her husband and son!
7. I didn't find the supposed love triangle (which at times felt contrived to fit the story) at all romantic or interesting...in fact I spent most the book wishing all three of them would get their act together or wanting to bang their collective heads together for their stupidity.
8. I personally just didn't like any of the main characters or find them remotely attractive, in any sense of the word. The real Jane Maxwell was larger than life and the facts we know about her didn't seem to fit comfortably with the story the author created.
So, if you like historical romance with plenty twists and turns and don't need a terribly satisfying HEA, then this could be for you. You might also like it if you are looking for broad based historical fiction (the action takes place on two continents) for this time period and don't mind a complicated romance thrown in. However, if you are looking for a historical novel focusing on Jane Maxwell and her life, take my advice and look her and her family up on Wikipedia instead as it will save you a lot of time!
March 4, 2019
4.5 stars!
This is the story of the life of Jane Maxwell, Duchess of Gordon in the 1700s. Jane came from a financially troubled family and her true love dies in the colonies. Jane marries becoming a Duchess which was quite a step up for her. Turns out Jane's true love survived and he returns to find Jane married! Unfortunately this is based on real events and I don't think I could've survived that heartache...
It's a well written book in my opinion and a fascinating story of this woman and all of the drama present in her life. I loved learning of the times and places in the book. The story takes you to England, Scotland and colonial America.
I appreciated the happy ending the author chose and was glad Jane found the happiness she had so long desired!
This is the story of the life of Jane Maxwell, Duchess of Gordon in the 1700s. Jane came from a financially troubled family and her true love dies in the colonies. Jane marries becoming a Duchess which was quite a step up for her. Turns out Jane's true love survived and he returns to find Jane married! Unfortunately this is based on real events and I don't think I could've survived that heartache...
It's a well written book in my opinion and a fascinating story of this woman and all of the drama present in her life. I loved learning of the times and places in the book. The story takes you to England, Scotland and colonial America.
I appreciated the happy ending the author chose and was glad Jane found the happiness she had so long desired!
March 12, 2010
(3.5)
The story begins in 1870 in Edinburgh, Scotland. The Maxwells of Monreith are well-born but always in financial difficulty. Jane is ever the tomboy, much to the chagrin of her grasping mother who has plans to marry the blossoming beauty into a wealthy family. Jane's great friend and cohort in *crime* is Thomas Fraser and as the two grow older their friendship develops into something stronger. They hope to wed one day, although Jane's mother and Thomas' guardian Simon Fraser have other plans for the two and will resort to any means to separate the young lovers.
To avoid spoilers I'm not going into much more detail, but word from the colonies forever changes Jane's life and heartbroken she enters into a marriage with the handsome but ever so dark and brooding Alex Gordon, Fourth Duke of Gordon. Can Jane let go of her lost love and make a successful, happy marriage? Can Alex accept there is a part of Jane that will always love Thomas or will he allow his jealousy to run out of control? Jane Gordon led quite a life; mother to five children, she was a celebrated beauty and favorite of George III and Queen Charlotte. She meddled in politics, assisted her husband in recruiting troops for the Gordon Highlanders, and managed to obtain brilliant marriages for her daughters despite Alex's tight pocketbook - especially where Louisa was concerned.
I really enjoyed this book a lot, especially the first and last of it. Jane's antics as a young girl were priceless (loved the pig race), as well as the early days of her courtship and marriage to Alex. Things got a bit slow in the middle third as it seemed pretty much made up of strum and drang and true love denied, as well as Jane and Alex's constant arguments and reconciliations resulting in one baby after another. However, the latter part of the book definitely picked up when a very formidable Jane comes to London and makes her own mark on society and her tempestuous relationship with Alex continues.
I just have a few quibbles, first of which are the constant references to Alex as the Fourth Duke of Gordon. I got it the first time or two and I didn't need to be clubbed over the head with it ad infinitum. The constant use of "tis" in the dialog also began to grate after a while. There is quite a lot of sex in this book, and while quite tame to today's standards a lot of it wasn't all that necessary, I got a bit tired of hearing about searching between one's legs for the object of one's desire. Less is more.
Lastly, as much as I love a pair of star crossed lovers, Jane and Thomas didn't quite come to life for me as much as I'd like to see in a novel. I wanted something more like Ash and Juli in The Far Pavilions - oh the pain he felt when he watched Juli being married to the old goat - if Ware could have brought those emotions into the story this would have been a solid five stars. 3.5/5 rounded up to four. A very good book, just not a great one.
The story begins in 1870 in Edinburgh, Scotland. The Maxwells of Monreith are well-born but always in financial difficulty. Jane is ever the tomboy, much to the chagrin of her grasping mother who has plans to marry the blossoming beauty into a wealthy family. Jane's great friend and cohort in *crime* is Thomas Fraser and as the two grow older their friendship develops into something stronger. They hope to wed one day, although Jane's mother and Thomas' guardian Simon Fraser have other plans for the two and will resort to any means to separate the young lovers.
To avoid spoilers I'm not going into much more detail, but word from the colonies forever changes Jane's life and heartbroken she enters into a marriage with the handsome but ever so dark and brooding Alex Gordon, Fourth Duke of Gordon. Can Jane let go of her lost love and make a successful, happy marriage? Can Alex accept there is a part of Jane that will always love Thomas or will he allow his jealousy to run out of control? Jane Gordon led quite a life; mother to five children, she was a celebrated beauty and favorite of George III and Queen Charlotte. She meddled in politics, assisted her husband in recruiting troops for the Gordon Highlanders, and managed to obtain brilliant marriages for her daughters despite Alex's tight pocketbook - especially where Louisa was concerned.
I really enjoyed this book a lot, especially the first and last of it. Jane's antics as a young girl were priceless (loved the pig race), as well as the early days of her courtship and marriage to Alex. Things got a bit slow in the middle third as it seemed pretty much made up of strum and drang and true love denied, as well as Jane and Alex's constant arguments and reconciliations resulting in one baby after another. However, the latter part of the book definitely picked up when a very formidable Jane comes to London and makes her own mark on society and her tempestuous relationship with Alex continues.
I just have a few quibbles, first of which are the constant references to Alex as the Fourth Duke of Gordon. I got it the first time or two and I didn't need to be clubbed over the head with it ad infinitum. The constant use of "tis" in the dialog also began to grate after a while. There is quite a lot of sex in this book, and while quite tame to today's standards a lot of it wasn't all that necessary, I got a bit tired of hearing about searching between one's legs for the object of one's desire. Less is more.
Lastly, as much as I love a pair of star crossed lovers, Jane and Thomas didn't quite come to life for me as much as I'd like to see in a novel. I wanted something more like Ash and Juli in The Far Pavilions - oh the pain he felt when he watched Juli being married to the old goat - if Ware could have brought those emotions into the story this would have been a solid five stars. 3.5/5 rounded up to four. A very good book, just not a great one.
July 2, 2011
This was another of my lucky Kindle finds -- I believe it was only available for a few days and then POOF, it's no longer available on Kindle. After 20 years, it was re-issued in its original length, and I'm SO VERY GLAD I bought it. Not only is it a passionate, amazing story, but it's a TRUE story.
My favorite books of all time are Diana Gabaldon's "Outlander" series, and any fans of hers will love and devour this book. First, it involves clan Fraser, and occurs right before the Revolutionary War. Thomas Fraser, godson of Simon Fraser, relation of Simon the Fox. Thomas, now titleless was close childhood friends with Jane Maxwell, who had a title but lived in poor gentility. Jane's mother was absolutely dead-set against a match between Thomas and Jane, despite the two's insistence, and looked for a higher match in order to save the penury of her family.
Thomas and Jane, secretly bethrothed, are thrown into a quandry when Thomas is called to fight in America during pre-Revolutionary skirmishes. He tries to reason with Jane that after the two year assignment, he'll have his commission and will be able to better take care of her. The two part with some harsh words (Jane wants to elope, Thomas holds fast).
Jane's mother burns all of Thomas' letters to Jane, and one day, the family is visited by a messenger who tells them that Thomas, along with two others, have been hacked to pieces by Indians. Jane falls into mourning, but her mother continues her matchmaking scheming, and after about six months, has convinced Jane to marry Duke Alexander of Gordon, an earlier rival of Thomas Fraser.
Right before Jane's wedding day, though, the tables are completely overturned when a letter arrives saying that Thomas is NOT dead, but had escaped the fray and has been convalescing in Maryland. His benefactress and nurse has fallen in love with him, though, and had hidden HIS earlier letters to Jane assuring her of his life. Jane ends up marrying Duke Alexander, Thomas arrives home, and we're set with hundreds of pages of starstruck lovers.
I won't say more, but it is SUCH a good read. Not only is the love triangle between Jane, Alexander, and Thomas a heart-rending story, but the history of the time is fascinating. Robert Burns, the poet, shows up -- William Pitt, the prime minister -- the madness of King George -- lots of court intrigues -- there's plenty to keep the pages turning. I lost a lot of much-needed sleep reading this amazing book.
This one ends up on my Favorite Books of All Time list.
Highly recommended.
Lori Anderson
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My favorite books of all time are Diana Gabaldon's "Outlander" series, and any fans of hers will love and devour this book. First, it involves clan Fraser, and occurs right before the Revolutionary War. Thomas Fraser, godson of Simon Fraser, relation of Simon the Fox. Thomas, now titleless was close childhood friends with Jane Maxwell, who had a title but lived in poor gentility. Jane's mother was absolutely dead-set against a match between Thomas and Jane, despite the two's insistence, and looked for a higher match in order to save the penury of her family.
Thomas and Jane, secretly bethrothed, are thrown into a quandry when Thomas is called to fight in America during pre-Revolutionary skirmishes. He tries to reason with Jane that after the two year assignment, he'll have his commission and will be able to better take care of her. The two part with some harsh words (Jane wants to elope, Thomas holds fast).
Jane's mother burns all of Thomas' letters to Jane, and one day, the family is visited by a messenger who tells them that Thomas, along with two others, have been hacked to pieces by Indians. Jane falls into mourning, but her mother continues her matchmaking scheming, and after about six months, has convinced Jane to marry Duke Alexander of Gordon, an earlier rival of Thomas Fraser.
Right before Jane's wedding day, though, the tables are completely overturned when a letter arrives saying that Thomas is NOT dead, but had escaped the fray and has been convalescing in Maryland. His benefactress and nurse has fallen in love with him, though, and had hidden HIS earlier letters to Jane assuring her of his life. Jane ends up marrying Duke Alexander, Thomas arrives home, and we're set with hundreds of pages of starstruck lovers.
I won't say more, but it is SUCH a good read. Not only is the love triangle between Jane, Alexander, and Thomas a heart-rending story, but the history of the time is fascinating. Robert Burns, the poet, shows up -- William Pitt, the prime minister -- the madness of King George -- lots of court intrigues -- there's plenty to keep the pages turning. I lost a lot of much-needed sleep reading this amazing book.
This one ends up on my Favorite Books of All Time list.
Highly recommended.
Lori Anderson
Blog
Shop
July 11, 2016
Ciji Ware is a really good writer. The story was smooth and easy to understand. This was my second historical romance novel. I would choose this book to read in a book club, because there would be a lot to talk about. I was amazed at the series of unfortunate events that took place. I was in agony! Jane and Thomas cannot catch a break, and when opportunities are given to them to be together... something happens. It was a page turner and fracking drove me crazy at times.
March 19, 2014
WHAT a disappointment.
The first 100 or so pages of the book had me completely hooked - and completely convinced this was going to be an amazing ride. The characters were so well-defined, so rich and complex, and I was really looking forward to following a story with some subtlety...nothing is more tragic than good people who just can't make each other (or themselves) happy.
Subtle...is not what happened. First, the book just follows the same cycle over...and over...and over...and over...and over again! There's only so many ways to set up Jane and Thomas are happy, Jane and Thomas are ripped apart, Jane and Alex are miserable, Jane and Alex come to terms with things, Jane and Alex are happy, Thomas comes back, and the cycle starts all over. ENOUGH!
Plus, the characters quickly slid from complex and rich to strangle-worthy. Jane was the least of these, but I got incredibly sick of her insisting she's a special snowflake who is different from Alex because SHE'S IN WUV. Alex and Thomas both start out as interesting, complex characters, but then they both -- they BOTH -- get . And once a character has crossed that line, I'm sorry, I'm through. No more sympathy from me, no more trying to see their side of it, I'm done. It's over. I don't know why the 80s loved using that as a plot point so much, but it gives me the heebie-jeebies and I don't appreciate being asked to somehow forgive characters for it or see their side of things about it.
*sigh* Sometimes I wish I could just enjoy books more. I feel like my brain picks everything apart so quickly and unconsciously that I don't have the opportunity to just lie back and let a book wash over me. I always hate it when I really look forward to a book and then it doesn't live up to what I imagined.
The first 100 or so pages of the book had me completely hooked - and completely convinced this was going to be an amazing ride. The characters were so well-defined, so rich and complex, and I was really looking forward to following a story with some subtlety...nothing is more tragic than good people who just can't make each other (or themselves) happy.
Subtle...is not what happened. First, the book just follows the same cycle over...and over...and over...and over...and over again! There's only so many ways to set up Jane and Thomas are happy, Jane and Thomas are ripped apart, Jane and Alex are miserable, Jane and Alex come to terms with things, Jane and Alex are happy, Thomas comes back, and the cycle starts all over. ENOUGH!
Plus, the characters quickly slid from complex and rich to strangle-worthy. Jane was the least of these, but I got incredibly sick of her insisting she's a special snowflake who is different from Alex because SHE'S IN WUV. Alex and Thomas both start out as interesting, complex characters, but then they both -- they BOTH -- get . And once a character has crossed that line, I'm sorry, I'm through. No more sympathy from me, no more trying to see their side of it, I'm done. It's over. I don't know why the 80s loved using that as a plot point so much, but it gives me the heebie-jeebies and I don't appreciate being asked to somehow forgive characters for it or see their side of things about it.
*sigh* Sometimes I wish I could just enjoy books more. I feel like my brain picks everything apart so quickly and unconsciously that I don't have the opportunity to just lie back and let a book wash over me. I always hate it when I really look forward to a book and then it doesn't live up to what I imagined.
June 26, 2011
I was sorely tempted to give this book two stars, but Ciji Ware's vivid descriptions of the political and social scene in 18th century Scotland, England, and America made me bump it up to three. This was one of the most frustrating books I've read in a long time, because it focused on an epic love story (much in the tradition of Anne Easter Smith and old school Rosalind Laker), and the characters spent the entire book whining and fighting and pining to the point where I just wanted to scream. It was unfortunate, because Jane Maxwell Gordon, Duchess of Gordon, was clearly a fascinating character as a rival of the Duchess of Devonshire, and I loved reading about her exploits in recruiting soldiers for the wars in America and France and in getting votes for William Pitt the Younger. However, these events didn't figure nearly as prominently as the times where she was either moaning about her lost love or worrying about seeing him when she found out he was in Scotland. It got old. Fast. And there was no pay off for all the agitation; in fact, I'm still agitated!
I don't regret reading Island of the Swans, but I was definitely hoping for a different book.
I don't regret reading Island of the Swans, but I was definitely hoping for a different book.
February 15, 2010
There’s nothing better than discovering a new author - one that you fancy so much you must read everything they’ve ever written. This just happened to me with author Ciji Ware after reading Island of the Swans and fortunately, I won’t have to wait too long because Sourcebooks Publishing will be re-issuing her past novels – YIPPEE! They sure started off with one doozy of a historical fiction novel!
Island of the Swans tells the story of Jane Maxwell, an 18th century Scottish woman who may be an ancestor of the author herself. Raised by a firm and tenacious mother after their father separated himself from the family, Jane is the middle child and though a bit wild, she is also growing up to be quite a beauty. Her ambitious mother is determined for her to marry well to save the family from debt and to help raise their station in the all important social circles.
Jane, however, doesn’t wish to marry “well”, she wishes to marry for love…in particular, she wishes to marry her best friend Thomas Fraser. Jane and Thomas grew up together in the streets of Edinburgh and through the years the friendship has grown into a deep and unrelenting love. Though they have to fight to be together, as their guardians make it clear they would never consent to the marriage, they are both undeterred in their love for each other.
After Thomas reportedly dies fighting the Indians, Jane is courted by Alexander, the 4th Duke of Gordon – a son of the English aristocracy. Still grieving for the loss of Thomas and with her heart still full of love for him, Jane turns down Alex’s offer of marriage, knowing she will never love anyone the way she loved Thomas. But, eventually she succumbs to the pressure and finally agrees to marry him. She knows she must move on and try to make a new life for herself and Alex.
When Thomas returns from being not dead, he finds Jane on her honeymoon, a newly made Duchess. Needless to say, this shocking event changes everything and the drama begins! I would love to go on and on – there’s so much to this novel that I loved – but you need to read it for yourself!
Torn between loving two men, her children, her heart and her duty, Jane’s story is completely and utterly engrossing. I truly love reading about women who defy their man-made roles and follow their hearts, have minds of their own and a backbone in which to use it.
Jane Maxwell is just that type of woman. She was rival to the hugely popular and most influential woman of the day, Georgiana, the Duchess of Devonshire and close friend to Queen Charlotte. And she was far too much into politics a woman in her time had a right to be – going so far as to disguise herself as a man and attend Parliament debates. Jane has also been dubbed the “match Making Duchess” for the excellent marriages she made for her daughters – three Duchesses and a Marquis.
Ciji Ware transports you to another time…from pig races in the streets of Edinburgh to the court of King George III, from Gordon castle to the floor of Parliament, from the tranquil village of Kinrara to the salons of the English aristocracy, Island of the Swans is a sweeping novel of true love, lost love, duty and choice.
The combination of meticulous research and Ciji’s seemingly effortless writing make for one unforgettable, un-pout-down-able novel!
Soundtrack: Simple Together by Alanis Morisette
Northern Lad by Tori Amos
Island of the Swans tells the story of Jane Maxwell, an 18th century Scottish woman who may be an ancestor of the author herself. Raised by a firm and tenacious mother after their father separated himself from the family, Jane is the middle child and though a bit wild, she is also growing up to be quite a beauty. Her ambitious mother is determined for her to marry well to save the family from debt and to help raise their station in the all important social circles.
Jane, however, doesn’t wish to marry “well”, she wishes to marry for love…in particular, she wishes to marry her best friend Thomas Fraser. Jane and Thomas grew up together in the streets of Edinburgh and through the years the friendship has grown into a deep and unrelenting love. Though they have to fight to be together, as their guardians make it clear they would never consent to the marriage, they are both undeterred in their love for each other.
After Thomas reportedly dies fighting the Indians, Jane is courted by Alexander, the 4th Duke of Gordon – a son of the English aristocracy. Still grieving for the loss of Thomas and with her heart still full of love for him, Jane turns down Alex’s offer of marriage, knowing she will never love anyone the way she loved Thomas. But, eventually she succumbs to the pressure and finally agrees to marry him. She knows she must move on and try to make a new life for herself and Alex.
When Thomas returns from being not dead, he finds Jane on her honeymoon, a newly made Duchess. Needless to say, this shocking event changes everything and the drama begins! I would love to go on and on – there’s so much to this novel that I loved – but you need to read it for yourself!
Torn between loving two men, her children, her heart and her duty, Jane’s story is completely and utterly engrossing. I truly love reading about women who defy their man-made roles and follow their hearts, have minds of their own and a backbone in which to use it.
Jane Maxwell is just that type of woman. She was rival to the hugely popular and most influential woman of the day, Georgiana, the Duchess of Devonshire and close friend to Queen Charlotte. And she was far too much into politics a woman in her time had a right to be – going so far as to disguise herself as a man and attend Parliament debates. Jane has also been dubbed the “match Making Duchess” for the excellent marriages she made for her daughters – three Duchesses and a Marquis.
Ciji Ware transports you to another time…from pig races in the streets of Edinburgh to the court of King George III, from Gordon castle to the floor of Parliament, from the tranquil village of Kinrara to the salons of the English aristocracy, Island of the Swans is a sweeping novel of true love, lost love, duty and choice.
The combination of meticulous research and Ciji’s seemingly effortless writing make for one unforgettable, un-pout-down-able novel!
Soundtrack: Simple Together by Alanis Morisette
Northern Lad by Tori Amos
February 11, 2010
I have to admit that I was rather distracted by my real life while reading this book. It didn't grab me and pull me in at any point, though I think the last two hundred pages or so were much more compelling that the first three hundred. I generally read a book every five days or so and this one took me two weeks. I stuck with it because the back cover made it sound so interesting and I love the period. But I didn't think it lived up to the back cover's description.
I couldn't taste the Scottish flavor and the period details seemed somewhat lacking.
The writing was not bad but it wasn't very good either. There was one point that was repeated over and over and over again, I found that a bit annoying.
Relationships are what make this an interesting story and I didn't think that Ware fleshed out any of the complicated relationships very well, or as well as I would have liked. She shows us the eruptions of emotions and that she does do well but the period between those eruptions are somewhat dry and dull. The story itself seemed isolated from the history of the period until we get to the last third of the book. Jane Maxwell's rivalry with the Duchess of Devonshire is mentioned as are trips to court to see the king and queen but we don't have any vivid exchanges between the Duchesses or any details about going to court, except the one visit with Queen Charlotte at the end of the book.
There is a fair amount of sex in this book as would make sense in a story about a love triangle. I thought the sex was tastefully done but I kept wondering 'does everyone need to talk during the act?' I would categorize this novel as a romance novel because the tension in the story moves from one romantic interlude to another without much story in between. I also wanted to better understand why Thomas and Jane weren't able to move on in their lives and get past their relationship. Or rather I wanted to see it more clearly than I did.
I also would have very much liked an historical note from the author telling us what facts she based this story on. She does say she went and visited Jane's home and Gordon Castle but what was fact and what was fiction?
This would have been much more enjoyable for me if it had been tightened up with an editor. As I said before I really enjoyed the last two hundred pages and if it had all been as interesting and compelling as the ending I would have given the book a five star review.
I couldn't taste the Scottish flavor and the period details seemed somewhat lacking.
The writing was not bad but it wasn't very good either. There was one point that was repeated over and over and over again, I found that a bit annoying.
Relationships are what make this an interesting story and I didn't think that Ware fleshed out any of the complicated relationships very well, or as well as I would have liked. She shows us the eruptions of emotions and that she does do well but the period between those eruptions are somewhat dry and dull. The story itself seemed isolated from the history of the period until we get to the last third of the book. Jane Maxwell's rivalry with the Duchess of Devonshire is mentioned as are trips to court to see the king and queen but we don't have any vivid exchanges between the Duchesses or any details about going to court, except the one visit with Queen Charlotte at the end of the book.
There is a fair amount of sex in this book as would make sense in a story about a love triangle. I thought the sex was tastefully done but I kept wondering 'does everyone need to talk during the act?' I would categorize this novel as a romance novel because the tension in the story moves from one romantic interlude to another without much story in between. I also wanted to better understand why Thomas and Jane weren't able to move on in their lives and get past their relationship. Or rather I wanted to see it more clearly than I did.
I also would have very much liked an historical note from the author telling us what facts she based this story on. She does say she went and visited Jane's home and Gordon Castle but what was fact and what was fiction?
This would have been much more enjoyable for me if it had been tightened up with an editor. As I said before I really enjoyed the last two hundred pages and if it had all been as interesting and compelling as the ending I would have given the book a five star review.
August 28, 2010
This is the story of two men who love the same woman, Jane Maxwell. Thomas Fraser grew up her in Edinburgh and knows her through and through. Alexander Gordon first saw her riding a pig when she was ten years old.
Meeting her again as a young woman, he woos her. Jane, on her part is angry at Thomas for putting his Uncle's wishes above her own.
She marries Alexander but never ceases to love Thomas. She comes to feel Alexander will never understand her as Thomas does.
Fraught with deceit, misfortune and misunderstandings, the story is also rich with historical background, the Scottish aristocracy losing to British power, the British losing the American Revolution quickly followed by the French Revolution.
George III is King Of England but is he sane?
Jane bares seven children, becomes estranged from Alexander, involves herself in politics in London, helping to bring the vote to William Pitt, brings more profit to her husband's lands yet still has to ask him for money.
Meanwhile Thomas struggles to win his inheritance back. Failing, he tries to find love in America only to return to England. In the end, the two find they still love each other.
I missed this book when it first came out and now I can't think why I never heard of this writer. It is a well written book. The plot carries us swiftly along, never faltering. I give this five stars!
Meeting her again as a young woman, he woos her. Jane, on her part is angry at Thomas for putting his Uncle's wishes above her own.
She marries Alexander but never ceases to love Thomas. She comes to feel Alexander will never understand her as Thomas does.
Fraught with deceit, misfortune and misunderstandings, the story is also rich with historical background, the Scottish aristocracy losing to British power, the British losing the American Revolution quickly followed by the French Revolution.
George III is King Of England but is he sane?
Jane bares seven children, becomes estranged from Alexander, involves herself in politics in London, helping to bring the vote to William Pitt, brings more profit to her husband's lands yet still has to ask him for money.
Meanwhile Thomas struggles to win his inheritance back. Failing, he tries to find love in America only to return to England. In the end, the two find they still love each other.
I missed this book when it first came out and now I can't think why I never heard of this writer. It is a well written book. The plot carries us swiftly along, never faltering. I give this five stars!
July 4, 2020
Really enjoyed this emotional, sweeping historical romance.
July 25, 2011
I love reading books with strong women, and when that woman is an actual historical person, so much the better. Ciji Ware tells the story of Jane Maxwell, Duchess of Gordon, in this novel.
The history covered in this book is great. Jane lived in Scotland and England during the late 1700's. In her lifetime, she was received at George III's court, championed William Pitt to become Prime Minister, was painted by Sir Joshua Reynolds, was Robert Burns' patron, and helped raise troops to support the crown vs the Colonists, and the French. I really enjoyed the amount of research Ware brings into the novel.
Jane's emotional life is more troubling. Her mother conspires to keep her from her first love, Thomas Fraser, and this conflict provides the center of the drama in the novel. Can she build a life with the Duke of Gordon, when she's still in love with Thomas? How will Alex deal with his jealousy over this?
For me, the love triangle got tedious. The situations were too repetitive, and the drama felt forced. That aside, this book was enjoyable, and a good fit for a vacation read.
The history covered in this book is great. Jane lived in Scotland and England during the late 1700's. In her lifetime, she was received at George III's court, championed William Pitt to become Prime Minister, was painted by Sir Joshua Reynolds, was Robert Burns' patron, and helped raise troops to support the crown vs the Colonists, and the French. I really enjoyed the amount of research Ware brings into the novel.
Jane's emotional life is more troubling. Her mother conspires to keep her from her first love, Thomas Fraser, and this conflict provides the center of the drama in the novel. Can she build a life with the Duke of Gordon, when she's still in love with Thomas? How will Alex deal with his jealousy over this?
For me, the love triangle got tedious. The situations were too repetitive, and the drama felt forced. That aside, this book was enjoyable, and a good fit for a vacation read.
February 18, 2010
This was an excellent and moving book. There are so many emotions felt as you read Jane's story. It was told in such a captivating way that you find yourself lost in the characters struggle for happiness and love. This is definitely a book I could see as an epic movie; right up there with Gone With the Wind. In the authors note at the beginning of the book, we are told that a full-length biography of Jane Maxwell does not exist. Therefore, I definitely have to give a huge thank you to Ciji Ware for bringing the historical figure of Jane Maxwell to life in such a remarkable way.
Read my full synopsis & review on my blog: Confessions and Ramblings of a Muse in the Fog.
Read my full synopsis & review on my blog: Confessions and Ramblings of a Muse in the Fog.
November 22, 2011
Unreadable.
Should be a great story. Is well-researched. Jane Maxwell had a very interesting life but she single-handedly ruined it.
The book is like a romance novel, sans the sex. The sex scenes are so sterile and strange.
If you want Scottish-themed historical fiction there are ton of better places to turn. (*cough* Outlander *cough*)
Should be a great story. Is well-researched. Jane Maxwell had a very interesting life but she single-handedly ruined it.
The book is like a romance novel, sans the sex. The sex scenes are so sterile and strange.
If you want Scottish-themed historical fiction there are ton of better places to turn. (*cough* Outlander *cough*)
August 28, 2025
This book was about 200 pages too long. I would have liked more about politics and court life and less of the Thomas and Jenny will they/won't they.
February 8, 2010
This is the story of a tragic love triangle (or bizarre love triangle for you New Order fans). The characters in this story are:
*Thomas Fraser, of the Fraser Highlanders who participated in the '45 with the Young Pretender, and thus lost everything. Thomas has struggled all of his life and must join the army to make a living. He and Jane have loved each other since childhood. (And yes, theses are the same Frasers as those featured in the Outlander Series)
*Alex Gordon, the Duke of Gordon. His family supported the King in the '45 and thus kept all of their land and titles. There are rumors of the Gordon Madness afflicting the bloodline. Although Alex's mother tried to spend his entire fortune, he was able to hold on to some and rebuild. Alex was acquainted with Thomas and Jane during childhood, but he was a Duke, and therefore did not hang out with them.
*Jane Maxwell, a beautiful woman from a lower ranking, somewhat poor, aristocratic family than the Gordans. She longs for family, love and independence, and freely expresses her thoughts and ideas on many subjects. Jane champions the cause of the underdog and struggles to keep Scottish traditions alive. She has been in love with Thomas since childhood, and promised to be wife someday.
Through fate and meddling family, tragedy visits this trio many times throughout their lives, bringing heartache and despair. Jane and Alex come together first as friends and then as lovers. They share the bond of having loved and lost someone close to them. But when Thomas comes back from the dead, happy times are over, and Alex and Jane's life is a constant cycle of happiness, sadness and mistrust. Every time the reader thinks everything will work out, fate brings Thomas back into their lives and reopens old wounds.
Alex is possessive and mistrustful of Jane due to his experiences growing up. Instead of just accepting that Jane will always love Thomas, Alex becomes furious and makes bad decisions, which usually hurt Jane. For her part, Jane always manages to pick herself up again and carry on. However, I do have one problem with Jane. I don't think she ever tries to see the situation form Alex's point of view. She is so consumed by her love for Thomas and how they can't be together, that she doesn't realize the pain she causes Alex. This may be my modern view of the situation, because for Alex's part, he never truly opens himself up to Jane. Men in those days didn't speak about their feelings. Alex already had trust issues, so why would he expose himself to being hurt further? And then there's Thomas, who can't be with the woman he loves, and never finds love again. Nothing compares to his Jenny.
See...very tragic situation all the way around.
The love story of these characters was deftly weaved within the life and times of Scotland in the 1760's and forward. I was completely immersed in this story and left the real world behind. I even uttered "Aye Lassie" to my co worker's questions a few times, which caused us to burst out into some much needed laughter.
There is one scene in the book, when Jane and Alex are out in the Highlands raising an army to fight off the rebellion in the colonies. Alex and Jane are performing ancient Scottish dancing; the description of the dance, and the the undercurrents of the situation and their feelings are written so descriptively and accurately, it was as if I was there. I could see their faces doing that dance.
Jane was also quite a force in her day as well. She was friends with many influential people and had an ongoing rivalry with the Duchess of Devonshire. Jane was also friends with PM Pitt and the poet Robert Burns. Jane's activities throughout the story also bring a richness and realness to this tale.
If you can't tell by now, I thoroughly loved and enjoyed this book. I loved each and every character, despite their faults, and became quite fond of all of them. Although I knew a happy ending could not be had by all, I was riveted to this book and was sorry to see it end.
My Rating: 100/100 I really loved this story. I loved Ciji's writing and look forward to reading the rest of her novels. I am so happy to have discovered this author! It's a shame I never heard of her before.
*Thomas Fraser, of the Fraser Highlanders who participated in the '45 with the Young Pretender, and thus lost everything. Thomas has struggled all of his life and must join the army to make a living. He and Jane have loved each other since childhood. (And yes, theses are the same Frasers as those featured in the Outlander Series)
*Alex Gordon, the Duke of Gordon. His family supported the King in the '45 and thus kept all of their land and titles. There are rumors of the Gordon Madness afflicting the bloodline. Although Alex's mother tried to spend his entire fortune, he was able to hold on to some and rebuild. Alex was acquainted with Thomas and Jane during childhood, but he was a Duke, and therefore did not hang out with them.
*Jane Maxwell, a beautiful woman from a lower ranking, somewhat poor, aristocratic family than the Gordans. She longs for family, love and independence, and freely expresses her thoughts and ideas on many subjects. Jane champions the cause of the underdog and struggles to keep Scottish traditions alive. She has been in love with Thomas since childhood, and promised to be wife someday.
Through fate and meddling family, tragedy visits this trio many times throughout their lives, bringing heartache and despair. Jane and Alex come together first as friends and then as lovers. They share the bond of having loved and lost someone close to them. But when Thomas comes back from the dead, happy times are over, and Alex and Jane's life is a constant cycle of happiness, sadness and mistrust. Every time the reader thinks everything will work out, fate brings Thomas back into their lives and reopens old wounds.
Alex is possessive and mistrustful of Jane due to his experiences growing up. Instead of just accepting that Jane will always love Thomas, Alex becomes furious and makes bad decisions, which usually hurt Jane. For her part, Jane always manages to pick herself up again and carry on. However, I do have one problem with Jane. I don't think she ever tries to see the situation form Alex's point of view. She is so consumed by her love for Thomas and how they can't be together, that she doesn't realize the pain she causes Alex. This may be my modern view of the situation, because for Alex's part, he never truly opens himself up to Jane. Men in those days didn't speak about their feelings. Alex already had trust issues, so why would he expose himself to being hurt further? And then there's Thomas, who can't be with the woman he loves, and never finds love again. Nothing compares to his Jenny.
See...very tragic situation all the way around.
The love story of these characters was deftly weaved within the life and times of Scotland in the 1760's and forward. I was completely immersed in this story and left the real world behind. I even uttered "Aye Lassie" to my co worker's questions a few times, which caused us to burst out into some much needed laughter.
There is one scene in the book, when Jane and Alex are out in the Highlands raising an army to fight off the rebellion in the colonies. Alex and Jane are performing ancient Scottish dancing; the description of the dance, and the the undercurrents of the situation and their feelings are written so descriptively and accurately, it was as if I was there. I could see their faces doing that dance.
Jane was also quite a force in her day as well. She was friends with many influential people and had an ongoing rivalry with the Duchess of Devonshire. Jane was also friends with PM Pitt and the poet Robert Burns. Jane's activities throughout the story also bring a richness and realness to this tale.
If you can't tell by now, I thoroughly loved and enjoyed this book. I loved each and every character, despite their faults, and became quite fond of all of them. Although I knew a happy ending could not be had by all, I was riveted to this book and was sorry to see it end.
My Rating: 100/100 I really loved this story. I loved Ciji's writing and look forward to reading the rest of her novels. I am so happy to have discovered this author! It's a shame I never heard of her before.
February 4, 2010
The story of Jane Maxwell Duchess of Gordon, in the 18thc, as told by the excellent author, Ciji Ware is a masterpiece read; an epic on its own. I hadn’t really read much about this feisty Duchess who climbed to the highest rank of nobility. Fashionable, politically savvy, doting mom, business woman…but in this magnificent novel, she mostly wears her role as a love-torn woman whose soul could never find peace.
The story begins with Jane as a mischievous young girl, who defies her mother in more ways than one. Against her mother’s will, her best friend, Thomas Fraser would become her secret betrothed. Thomas’ uncle, Simon Fraser, being of the same mind as Jane’s mother, would come into a pact with the latter to make sure the two youngsters stayed apart forever. It was Jane’s mother’s wish that her most beautiful daughter marry in the highest ranks of nobility. For Simon Fraser, the family lands needed to be fought for and salvaged back to their rightful owners of the Highlands, the Fraser family…and so…
Thomas Fraser is sent off as a Scottish soldier to fight the American war. Although Jane begs him to stay, Thomas is excited about this adventure and promises to marry her when he gets back. Their last evening together at a beautiful ball filled with dancing and merriment, Jane, who is angry that Thomas is leaving, decides to make him jealous. She dances with the dashing Duke of Gordon. A brawl almost erupts between the two young men who don’t like eachother to begin with (a story starting way back when the three of them were all very young…and where Jane succumbs to a terrible accident..)
So, off goes Thomas and (I need to skip a spoiler here- and jump to)…Jane Maxwell marries the Duke of Gordon..huh? Yeah, you need to read the story to understand what really happens here..;
This saga is tragic to say the least. It is an emotional roller-coaster from beginning to end. First of all, the book is no menial chunkster at 565 pages- so settle in comfy cause you’re in for bouts of hopes and delusions-a real tear jerker. Although this novel is mainly about a mega love story, there is a lot of interesting history involving well-known historical figures, such as: Georgiana Duchess of Devonshire (Jane’s ultimate political and fashion rival), George III and his Queen (who love Jane), The Princes and many more. I loved to read about their interactions, the civil war happening in America, the Whigs and the Torys- but yes, of course, what stole the show was Jane Maxwell’s constant search for happiness and quench for love.
Island of The Swans is the kind of book that I can totally see being made for the Big Screen… Gone With The Wind kind of style- Absolutely. If there is one thing though that did turn me off a little, that was the too many racy love scenes. I could have done with fewer of those (they seemed to be interjected in there constantly). And although I do understand the author’s reasoning behind a few of these, some of the details, I personally found a bit too graphic for my liking.
But other than that, this was a phenomenal read!
The story begins with Jane as a mischievous young girl, who defies her mother in more ways than one. Against her mother’s will, her best friend, Thomas Fraser would become her secret betrothed. Thomas’ uncle, Simon Fraser, being of the same mind as Jane’s mother, would come into a pact with the latter to make sure the two youngsters stayed apart forever. It was Jane’s mother’s wish that her most beautiful daughter marry in the highest ranks of nobility. For Simon Fraser, the family lands needed to be fought for and salvaged back to their rightful owners of the Highlands, the Fraser family…and so…
Thomas Fraser is sent off as a Scottish soldier to fight the American war. Although Jane begs him to stay, Thomas is excited about this adventure and promises to marry her when he gets back. Their last evening together at a beautiful ball filled with dancing and merriment, Jane, who is angry that Thomas is leaving, decides to make him jealous. She dances with the dashing Duke of Gordon. A brawl almost erupts between the two young men who don’t like eachother to begin with (a story starting way back when the three of them were all very young…and where Jane succumbs to a terrible accident..)
So, off goes Thomas and (I need to skip a spoiler here- and jump to)…Jane Maxwell marries the Duke of Gordon..huh? Yeah, you need to read the story to understand what really happens here..;
This saga is tragic to say the least. It is an emotional roller-coaster from beginning to end. First of all, the book is no menial chunkster at 565 pages- so settle in comfy cause you’re in for bouts of hopes and delusions-a real tear jerker. Although this novel is mainly about a mega love story, there is a lot of interesting history involving well-known historical figures, such as: Georgiana Duchess of Devonshire (Jane’s ultimate political and fashion rival), George III and his Queen (who love Jane), The Princes and many more. I loved to read about their interactions, the civil war happening in America, the Whigs and the Torys- but yes, of course, what stole the show was Jane Maxwell’s constant search for happiness and quench for love.
Island of The Swans is the kind of book that I can totally see being made for the Big Screen… Gone With The Wind kind of style- Absolutely. If there is one thing though that did turn me off a little, that was the too many racy love scenes. I could have done with fewer of those (they seemed to be interjected in there constantly). And although I do understand the author’s reasoning behind a few of these, some of the details, I personally found a bit too graphic for my liking.
But other than that, this was a phenomenal read!
May 28, 2013
For the sake of friends that may read this in the future, I won't go into much detail about my thoughts on this book and just make them vague. Why have I been writing my thoughts down so much lately, though? Anyway, this book was not how I thought it would be as far as subject/content, writing style, or length (for some reason I had thought it was on the average size but it is a more lengthy tome). For a while I was thinking it would only have three stars until I realized how much I had fallen in love with the characters and story. In the past I think I gave some "guilty pleasures" lower scores but this one seems like it should have a higher score.
Also, I was very good and avoided going after what was real and what was not until after I had finished. This area is one of my passions (thank you to Jean Plaidy and her Georgian Saga!) and going into it I felt like I had a little more knowledge than most. I was quite shocked to learn how wrong I was after fact checking at the end! Move over Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire, there's a new duchess in town!
Also, I was very good and avoided going after what was real and what was not until after I had finished. This area is one of my passions (thank you to Jean Plaidy and her Georgian Saga!) and going into it I felt like I had a little more knowledge than most. I was quite shocked to learn how wrong I was after fact checking at the end! Move over Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire, there's a new duchess in town!
June 19, 2013
Wow, this was the first book I've read by Ciji Ware and I *REALLY* liked it. The historical background, the true-to-history characters, and actual events were well-researched and made the book very interesting. The story was INCREDIBLE! WIthout both history and a good storyline, it just doesn't cut it as a quality piece of historical fiction for me. I found all of the characters - historical and fictional - to be quite interesting. She weaved enough story and description for me to care about all of them - another important factor in whether I like a book or not. Jane Maxwell Gordon was a fascinating person. Now that I've read the book, I have to do some research on the rest of her life...the book ends 15 years before the end of her life. I'm hungry for more information about her. I will definitely be reading other works by this author!
April 16, 2019
Diger historical romanlara gore oldukça degişik bir romandı..Uclü bir ask ilişkisi vardı...Jane Maxwell çocukluk aşkı Thomas Fraser ile evlenmesine engel olan annesi yüzünden bir takım entrikalar ile Dük Alex Gordon ile evlenir.
Evliliği büyük iniş çıkışlar ile devam eder. Hem Jane hem de kocası Alex bu evlilikte byük hatalar,sadakatsizlik yapar.
Roman Fransız İhtilali ile Amerikan Kolonilerinin bagımsızlığa kavustugu zamanlarda ve o cografyalarda geciyor..
Bildiğiniz bir mutlu son veya mutsuz bir son ile bitmiyor..
Kadın kahrakter sevmediği bir adamla evlebmediği için mutsuzluktan hayatına da küsmüyor..Aksine cok mutlu ve mutsuz oldugu zaanlar da vardı..
Yazarın kalemini konuyu işleme biçimini begendim.. Son derece gercekçi bir uslup ile işlemiş konuyu...
Romanda bana çok ters gelen sahneleri de olsa da. Beni oldukça etkiledi ...
Sanırım ülkemiz de yazarın çıkan tek romanı Kuğu Adası olsa gerek.. Keske başka bir romanını da okuyabilseydim...
Evliliği büyük iniş çıkışlar ile devam eder. Hem Jane hem de kocası Alex bu evlilikte byük hatalar,sadakatsizlik yapar.
Roman Fransız İhtilali ile Amerikan Kolonilerinin bagımsızlığa kavustugu zamanlarda ve o cografyalarda geciyor..
Bildiğiniz bir mutlu son veya mutsuz bir son ile bitmiyor..
Kadın kahrakter sevmediği bir adamla evlebmediği için mutsuzluktan hayatına da küsmüyor..Aksine cok mutlu ve mutsuz oldugu zaanlar da vardı..
Yazarın kalemini konuyu işleme biçimini begendim.. Son derece gercekçi bir uslup ile işlemiş konuyu...
Romanda bana çok ters gelen sahneleri de olsa da. Beni oldukça etkiledi ...
Sanırım ülkemiz de yazarın çıkan tek romanı Kuğu Adası olsa gerek.. Keske başka bir romanını da okuyabilseydim...
July 16, 2023
Detailed, dramatic, and had me up in arms from time to time! This is the story of two people who are so clearly meant to be but have fate against them! It reminded me a lot of Anna Karenina and The Notebook, because she thinks her true love is dead so she marries another man, only to find out her true love is actually alive! Ahh!! I liked the writing, it was very detailed, you can tell so much research was put into the setting, especially the politics of Scotland and England in the 1700s; the American colonies too. I think my main issue is that none of the characters were likable much, the drama was a lot and did make me mad but I didn’t mind that too much, I just wanted the happy ending!! It’s a good book and it has the vibes of it being a classic romance. So while I liked it, I didn’t necessarily enjoy it. I did find parts of it beautiful, though, and for that, 3 stars! 🦢
February 13, 2010
With Island of the Swans,Ciji Ware gives readers a sweeping historical romance of Scotlands's Jane Maxwell, the Fourth Duchess of Gordon. In love since childhood with impoverished Thomas Fraser, Jane is devastated when news reaches Edinburgh that Thomas has been killed fighting with the Black Watch regiment against the French and Indians in the American colonies. While still mourning Thomas, Jane begins to attempt to heal her heart by re-entering Edinburgh society, often in the company of Alexander, Fourth Duke of Gordon, who has recently suffered a similar loss. The two become strong friends and when Alex speaks of his growing love for her, Jane consents to marry him, believing Thomas gone forever and needing the support of a husband for others in her family as well as herself. On the day of her wedding to Alexander, word reaches Magdalene, Jane's mother, that Thomas is alive and just arrived in Ireland to rejoin his regiment. He will soon be free to return to Edinburgh and his beloved Jenny (Jane). Preferring a duke over a soldier for a son-in-law, Magdalene keeps the news to herself, and the wedding proceeds as planned. It is only upon her return to Edinburgh after an extended honeymoon that the new Duchess of Gordon learns of the folly that has befallen Thomas, Alexander, and herself.
The romance of Island of the Swans is not really a lover's triangle, more a tug-o-war, with Jane being pulled between Thomas, who is her soul mate and Alexander, the man she loves as a husband and father to her children. Jane intends loyalty to Alexander, but his unreasonable and sometimes vicious jealousy prevents them from deepening their friendship and ties as a couple. For over 30 years Jane and Thomas lead separate lives, occasionally seeing one another through local ceremonies or mutual interests. The history of the story is exciting, as it rolls through the dessication of the Scottish Highlands, two American wars, and the madness of King George. Jane's intelligence and forthright manner make her the toast of not only Edinburgh but London as well. A confidant to King George III, and active in election campaigns, she becomes the patroness of the unknown poet Robert Burns, and is elemental in the publication of his first collection of poetry.
Jane was instrumental in raising Scottish Highland troops for the Gordon Regiment during the war with the American Colonies, and even created the Gordon tartan, based on the Black Watch tartan. While doing all of these public things, Jane gives birth to seven children and creates her own farm at Kinrara in the Highlands far North of Edinburgh.
Although Island of the Swansis a work of historical fiction, the characters of Jane and Alexander seem much like the descriptions I have read of them in my own brief research. Jane, a lover of books, new ideas, and people, was at her prime in the salons of London and Edinburgh, while Alexander loved the country life of hunting and animal husbandry. Even without the specter of Thomas Fraser hanging over them throughout their marriage, Jane and Alex were obviously not a suited couple. While Jane was able to use the Gordon title to make change and effect political decisions, Alex wanted nothing more than to be left alone in the countryside then known as Morayshire.
The romance of Island of the Swans is not really a lover's triangle, more a tug-o-war, with Jane being pulled between Thomas, who is her soul mate and Alexander, the man she loves as a husband and father to her children. Jane intends loyalty to Alexander, but his unreasonable and sometimes vicious jealousy prevents them from deepening their friendship and ties as a couple. For over 30 years Jane and Thomas lead separate lives, occasionally seeing one another through local ceremonies or mutual interests. The history of the story is exciting, as it rolls through the dessication of the Scottish Highlands, two American wars, and the madness of King George. Jane's intelligence and forthright manner make her the toast of not only Edinburgh but London as well. A confidant to King George III, and active in election campaigns, she becomes the patroness of the unknown poet Robert Burns, and is elemental in the publication of his first collection of poetry.
Jane was instrumental in raising Scottish Highland troops for the Gordon Regiment during the war with the American Colonies, and even created the Gordon tartan, based on the Black Watch tartan. While doing all of these public things, Jane gives birth to seven children and creates her own farm at Kinrara in the Highlands far North of Edinburgh.
Although Island of the Swansis a work of historical fiction, the characters of Jane and Alexander seem much like the descriptions I have read of them in my own brief research. Jane, a lover of books, new ideas, and people, was at her prime in the salons of London and Edinburgh, while Alexander loved the country life of hunting and animal husbandry. Even without the specter of Thomas Fraser hanging over them throughout their marriage, Jane and Alex were obviously not a suited couple. While Jane was able to use the Gordon title to make change and effect political decisions, Alex wanted nothing more than to be left alone in the countryside then known as Morayshire.
August 24, 2010
Jane Maxwell was always a wild child. Growing up in Edinburgh, the daughter of impoverished aristocrats, she led her sisters and her best friend Thomas Fraser in adventure after adventure, each more outrageous than the last. At the age of eleven she lost part of a finger after riding a pig through the town, earning her mother's anger and displeasure for damaging her most valuable child. Jane was the one beautiful daughter her mother possessed and she was determined to shore up the family's failing finances by marrying Jane off to a wealthy man.
Unfortunately, Thomas was Jane's choice. And Thomas' parents had lost their land and their lives in the Highland clearances. His only hope of getting any of their ancestral lands back was to join the army and sail for America to fight for England in the Revolution. Jane begged him to consider eloping before he left, both her mother and Thomas' guardian were against them. Though they promise themselves to each other, they do not marry before Thomas leaves.
When word comes that Thomas has been killed by Indians, she is completely devastated. For months she is unable to function at all. Eventually, though, she finds a little bit of comfort in her friendship with Alexander, who happens to be the Duke of Gordon. He seems to understand Jane's pain, he recently lost his beloved mistress in childbirth. The more she gets to know Alex, the more comfortable she is with him. Soon it is apparent that Alex wants to marry her and Jane is unable to resist her mother's constant pressure to accept his proposal.
Of course, Thomas isn't dead at all. His return will tear Jane apart and shape the rest of her life. As she attempts to live with the jealous man that she married, bearing children and outwardly fulfilling her role as Duchess, she throws herself into the tumult of politics and social issues. She advises King George and becomes a patroness of Robert Burns. She assuages the pain in her heart by cultivating her brain, earning a position in eighteenth century Europe that few women achieved.
Island of the Swans is a fantastic historical novel, rich with the lush scenery of Scotland, the glitter of London and lively, interesting characters. The whole reason that I love this genre is the opportunity to learn about historical figures that you might never know about otherwise, like Jane Maxwell, the fourth Duchess of Gordon. I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more books by Ciji Ware.
Unfortunately, Thomas was Jane's choice. And Thomas' parents had lost their land and their lives in the Highland clearances. His only hope of getting any of their ancestral lands back was to join the army and sail for America to fight for England in the Revolution. Jane begged him to consider eloping before he left, both her mother and Thomas' guardian were against them. Though they promise themselves to each other, they do not marry before Thomas leaves.
When word comes that Thomas has been killed by Indians, she is completely devastated. For months she is unable to function at all. Eventually, though, she finds a little bit of comfort in her friendship with Alexander, who happens to be the Duke of Gordon. He seems to understand Jane's pain, he recently lost his beloved mistress in childbirth. The more she gets to know Alex, the more comfortable she is with him. Soon it is apparent that Alex wants to marry her and Jane is unable to resist her mother's constant pressure to accept his proposal.
Of course, Thomas isn't dead at all. His return will tear Jane apart and shape the rest of her life. As she attempts to live with the jealous man that she married, bearing children and outwardly fulfilling her role as Duchess, she throws herself into the tumult of politics and social issues. She advises King George and becomes a patroness of Robert Burns. She assuages the pain in her heart by cultivating her brain, earning a position in eighteenth century Europe that few women achieved.
Island of the Swans is a fantastic historical novel, rich with the lush scenery of Scotland, the glitter of London and lively, interesting characters. The whole reason that I love this genre is the opportunity to learn about historical figures that you might never know about otherwise, like Jane Maxwell, the fourth Duchess of Gordon. I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more books by Ciji Ware.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2010
This book follows the life of Jane Maxwell, who after her father abandons the family, her mother puts the hopes of the family into her lap. But Jane is anything but obedient. She is a free-flying, spunky soul who even from an early age is in love with Thomas Fraser. Thomas grows up never knowing his parents after they died supporting Price Charles, and losing everything in his place.
When they both reach young adulthood, they love each other yet financially they are unable to convince their parents and guardians that they are a good match. They secretly engage, but before they can do more, Thomas is sent of to America to fight with the Scottish. He promises Jane, when he returns in two years time, he will have money and land and they can marry.
Before that two years is up, word reaches Jane that Thomas has been killed. Devastated, Jane turns to an unlikely source of support – Alexander, The Duke of Gordon. Alexander and Thomas had a strenuous relationship at best. Both dealing in grief, an odd, relationship develops and a marriage results.
But Thomas is not dead – he is very much alive in America. When he returns, heartbreak over past events will turn both of their lives upside down.
Island of the Swans is the kind of book I loved reading growing up and it really was fun to read such an epic tale again. The love between Thomas and Jane is so rich and intense, and then to have Thomas reappear after she marries his archenemy – oh the tension!! They try so hard to respect her vows of marriage and move on with their lives, but true love is hard to ignore.
Jane is such a fierce, independent heroine, it is hard not to root against poor Alexander. Don’t get me wrong though, Alexander does plenty to hurt his cause. Jane is very outspoken and never fits the mold her mother wants for her beautiful daughter. While Jane and Alexander have a good physical relationship, the emotional distress of knowing Thomas is out there, fighting for her heart, dooms them from the beginning.
Island of the Swans is a romantic tale that reminds you love does not always play a fair game with your heart.
When they both reach young adulthood, they love each other yet financially they are unable to convince their parents and guardians that they are a good match. They secretly engage, but before they can do more, Thomas is sent of to America to fight with the Scottish. He promises Jane, when he returns in two years time, he will have money and land and they can marry.
Before that two years is up, word reaches Jane that Thomas has been killed. Devastated, Jane turns to an unlikely source of support – Alexander, The Duke of Gordon. Alexander and Thomas had a strenuous relationship at best. Both dealing in grief, an odd, relationship develops and a marriage results.
But Thomas is not dead – he is very much alive in America. When he returns, heartbreak over past events will turn both of their lives upside down.
Island of the Swans is the kind of book I loved reading growing up and it really was fun to read such an epic tale again. The love between Thomas and Jane is so rich and intense, and then to have Thomas reappear after she marries his archenemy – oh the tension!! They try so hard to respect her vows of marriage and move on with their lives, but true love is hard to ignore.
Jane is such a fierce, independent heroine, it is hard not to root against poor Alexander. Don’t get me wrong though, Alexander does plenty to hurt his cause. Jane is very outspoken and never fits the mold her mother wants for her beautiful daughter. While Jane and Alexander have a good physical relationship, the emotional distress of knowing Thomas is out there, fighting for her heart, dooms them from the beginning.
Island of the Swans is a romantic tale that reminds you love does not always play a fair game with your heart.
January 13, 2018
Should have stuck with Alex. He always was there for her.
June 21, 2012
(3.5 stars) Based on the actual Jane Maxwell, the 4th Duchess of Gordon, this is a fictionalized account of the actual events in her life from the mid 1700's to the early 1800's. Starting with Jane as a young child living in Scotland with her parents living separate,and consequently, somewhat impoverished lives,the Scottish are still suffering after the defeat at Culloden, which has reduced the fortunes of many of the former gentry. We see Jane as somewhat of a reckless daredevil, with her devoted companion, Thomas Fraser, enjoying tearing down English royal proclamations and engaging in pig races. It is one of those races, where a tragic accident leads to the severing of one of her fingers, that Jane first encounters Alexander, soon to be the Duke of Gordon. Jane's mother despairs at Jane's activities as she wants to make a suitable match for her to uplift her family's fortunes. She and Thomas' uncle, Simon Fraser, want to split up the two before they become engaged. Thomas and Jane have other plans, and secretly become engaged before Thomas ships out as a soldier to America. Jane wishes to elope, but Thomas asks her to wait until his return, hopefully with means to improve their future together. When the families hear of Thomas' death in an Indian raid, Jane is inconsolable and slowly warms to Alexander, particularly due to his own tragedies in the past which have left him without the love of his life and with a bastard son. Fate strikes when Thomas is found to be alive, and this sets up an ill-fated love triangle that haunts Jane for the rest of her life. We see her as she struggles to have the independence she desires in a society where women, particularly married women, lacked this ability. Within her scope, she made a significant splash on society, advising royalty, and as a patroness for the poet Robert Burns. While there was quite a bit of romance/sex, the historical period and Jane's character were intriguing to me. Fans of the Outlander series would enjoy the historical context of the novel.
February 1, 2010
This is such a wonderful piece of historical fiction that Sourcebooks Landmark publishers picked it up after twenty years and decided to republish it. And I am so glad that they did, because this is a story that needs to be told, but hasn't been. Based on a true story, Jane Maxwell is an infectiously delightful young lady who soon grows up to be a rival the Georgiana the Duchess of Devonshire. But how she got that way is the charm of the story. Set against the backdrop of Scotland, Ciji Ware brings Jane Maxwell to life in this endearing tale of love, passion and betrayal.
Jane Maxwell has an overbearing mother but enjoys her childhood with her sisters and the neighborhood boy, Thomas Fraser. As they grow up together, Thomas and Jane become more than friends, much to the chagrin of the status-seeking mother of Jane. Thomas leaves Scotland in spite of Jane's pleas to stay or to at least marry her before he leaves, but he is intent on restoring his family name by becoming a good soldier in the States. He leaves Jane behind, and she is heartbroken that his tunnel vision does not include the predicament that he left Jane in. With Thomas Fraser gone for two years, Jane's mother worked furiously to eradicate him from Jane's memory. A battle in the states went so bad with Indians that the soldiers could not distinguish who the bodies belonged to. Thomas was among those assumed dead. When Jane received word of this, she was stricken and paralyzed with grief. This was a superbly written part in the story that had me crying my eyes out, even though the back cover of the back foretold this event within the plot.
TO SEE THE REST OF THE REVIEW..AND A GIVEAWAY ALERT ETC.. http://www.burtonbookreview.com/2010/...
Jane Maxwell has an overbearing mother but enjoys her childhood with her sisters and the neighborhood boy, Thomas Fraser. As they grow up together, Thomas and Jane become more than friends, much to the chagrin of the status-seeking mother of Jane. Thomas leaves Scotland in spite of Jane's pleas to stay or to at least marry her before he leaves, but he is intent on restoring his family name by becoming a good soldier in the States. He leaves Jane behind, and she is heartbroken that his tunnel vision does not include the predicament that he left Jane in. With Thomas Fraser gone for two years, Jane's mother worked furiously to eradicate him from Jane's memory. A battle in the states went so bad with Indians that the soldiers could not distinguish who the bodies belonged to. Thomas was among those assumed dead. When Jane received word of this, she was stricken and paralyzed with grief. This was a superbly written part in the story that had me crying my eyes out, even though the back cover of the back foretold this event within the plot.
TO SEE THE REST OF THE REVIEW..AND A GIVEAWAY ALERT ETC.. http://www.burtonbookreview.com/2010/...
October 19, 2011
This book had all the ingredients for a book that I truely love; romance, history and most important of all- a strong female herione. And it didnt disappoint.
Island of the Swans takes you back to the lowlands of Scotland several years after the disasterous Culloden. It follows the life of the young and beautiful Jane Maxwell, a girl of some fortune who falls in love with Thomas Fraser who lost his lands when his family fought against the crown in 1747. Thomas leaves to fight in the colonies to regain his title and is thought to have died in battle. Heartbroken but determind to move on, Jane marries Alexander, the Duke of Gordon, a man she has great respect and feelings for but lacks the passion she felt for Thomas. Unfortunatly for Alexander and Jane, Thomas lived and from the moment he returned to Scotland, the three are locked in a love triangle that lasts the rest of their lives.
I felt this book to have very real emotions and the characters, like real people, were very complex and often contradictory. You could feel the jealousness the men felt towards eachother throughout the book and Jane's constant fighting with herself and her loyalty to her children abouve all else was very appealing. What really struck me was how strong and independent Jane was despite her husbands obvious disapproval of her involvement in politics, economics and matchmaking. When history is written, it is the deeds of men that we most hear about. It was so refreshing to read about a strong woman who left her mark on british history and who was admired for not just her beauty but her intelligence as well. This woman had 18th century girl power.
A well researched, entralling book about a women the history books should celebrate. Well worth the 565 pages!!!
Island of the Swans takes you back to the lowlands of Scotland several years after the disasterous Culloden. It follows the life of the young and beautiful Jane Maxwell, a girl of some fortune who falls in love with Thomas Fraser who lost his lands when his family fought against the crown in 1747. Thomas leaves to fight in the colonies to regain his title and is thought to have died in battle. Heartbroken but determind to move on, Jane marries Alexander, the Duke of Gordon, a man she has great respect and feelings for but lacks the passion she felt for Thomas. Unfortunatly for Alexander and Jane, Thomas lived and from the moment he returned to Scotland, the three are locked in a love triangle that lasts the rest of their lives.
I felt this book to have very real emotions and the characters, like real people, were very complex and often contradictory. You could feel the jealousness the men felt towards eachother throughout the book and Jane's constant fighting with herself and her loyalty to her children abouve all else was very appealing. What really struck me was how strong and independent Jane was despite her husbands obvious disapproval of her involvement in politics, economics and matchmaking. When history is written, it is the deeds of men that we most hear about. It was so refreshing to read about a strong woman who left her mark on british history and who was admired for not just her beauty but her intelligence as well. This woman had 18th century girl power.
A well researched, entralling book about a women the history books should celebrate. Well worth the 565 pages!!!
June 7, 2011
Author Ciji Ware’s fascinating dipiction of Jane Maxwell, the fourth Duchess of Gordon was simply breathtaking. The young passionately beautiful rebellious second daughter of the mostly absent drunken baronet Sir William Maxwell of Monreith and his overbearingly strict wife Lady Magdalene Maxwell of Blair, never ceased to amaze people with her free-thinking ideas and dreams involving her family, friends, and lovers. Jane was a young girl of ten that was inseparable from her good friend, 14-year-old, Thomas Fraser. As time goes on Thomas’ godfather, Simon, and Jane’s mother, Magdalene, think that the couple is an unworthy match and should not marry in the future. As they get older, Jane and Thomas fall in love, and Thomas is then sent to America to fight with England against the colonists and is presumed dead. As Jane mourns and eventually moves on with her to life to marry the Fourth Duke of Gordon, Alexander, we later learn that Thomas was never killed and is very much alive. Later coming back to claim his past love, Jane, Thomas learns that the woman who nursed him back to health in America, Arabella, never mailed his letter to Jane claiming to be alive, which lead to her marrying Alexander. Every time these poor souls thought that they would reunite and resume their life together, something else would happen to keep them apart. A masterpiece of betrayals and jealousys that was always threatening to come in between loves lost and gained. A novel of true love and sacrifice not to be missed!!
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