This story is about a young woman’s quest to marry the best catch during New York’s “Gilded Age.” Or maybe I should say it is her family’s quest to marry her off to only the best. Although, Clara does get sucked into the game and learns to play it well.

The history in the novel shed some light on aspects of the social scene in the late 18oo’s that I hadn’t heard of before. The characters were well described and interesting.  The book was a good read, although it did have some parts I wish I hadn’t read! Specifically the discovery of the corset issue and her mother’s death. This part was rather morbid but it goes to show you that, as the Bible says, “beauty is fleeting; but  a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

Many of the chapters, though I’m sure they are historically accurate, were incredibly frustrating. I’m thankful to God that I did not live during this time period because the triteness and double standards were overwhelming.  Aside from that, the book was written well and it leaves you guessing until the end.

Thanks to Bethany House for the opportunity to review this book in exchange for my honest opinion.