Ever Your Affectionate

by Maya Rushing Walker

Hello! My name is Lydia Barrow. I'm nineteen years old. And I'm in the way. But I've always been in the way, and when my half sister goes to London to find a husband, my stepmother decides to get rid of me so that I don't mess up their plans. And as far as I'm concerned, that's fine. I'm used to being ignored...or worse. I can take care of myself. In fact, I've got plans. If things go well, I'll have a source of income and be independent...eventually. However, it's still not enough for Lady Durand. Now she wants to marry me off to some random man so that she can be rid of me for good. And I don't like this one bit. But what do you do when all of society is designed around men ? When you don't have an identity of your own? Is it possible to stand on your own two feet and be responsible for yourself? And what if this man is...wonderful? Should I trust him? I don't know what I'm going to do. But I've found a wonderful friend named Catherine. She's the daughter of an earl, and she's about as alone in the world as I am. She says she has the answer to my problems...

220 pages, Paperback

Published August 24, 2022

Reviews

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lydia Barrow is a daughter of an earl who was born on the wrong side of the blanket. Her existence is an embarrassment to the family so she is kept hidden away with the family home. She has received the same opportunities of "education" as her half-sisters, but she doesn't really belong and everyone lets her know it. She is there at the demand and sufferance of her stepmother and the tolerance of the father. She had heard rumors about her birth mother but she doesn't know what is real or not. As her oldest female half-sibling reaches the age to "come out", Lydia is sent away to another family home to "not interfere" with the coming out in London. Unfortunately, Lydia has been convinced that is not attractive and has no redeeming qualities. Lydia is an interesting character and has good insight into those around her. Unfortunately, her upbringing has led her to believe that almost everyone has bad intentions. I struggled with Lydia's anger and frustration with the lead male character. Despite her statement that she had forgiven him, but her behavior and writings were not convincing. At the end of the story, she still seemed to be unforgiving and that's why I couldn't rate the read higher.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely a different type of story. Intriguing with an unusual character. Enjoyable