I’ve never read a Henry James book before and then I saw a copy of this book in MacLeod’s bookshop in Vancouver and thought I should give it a go.
Well, I’m glad I did, but I doubt I will read another book by this author.
It was interesting but not gripping and I didn’t feel that invested in the potential amorous outcomes.
The Europeans are Eugenia, Baroness Munster, wife of a German prince who wants rid of her. She crosses the sea to America along with her brother Felix Young.
They make themselves known to their relations and are invited by their uncle, Mr Wentworth, to stay with him and his daughters Charlotte and Gertrude and his son, Clifford, at their home. Felix falls for Gertrude who is loved by Mr Brand the Unitarian minister who is actually secretly admired by Charlotte.
A cousin of The Wentworths, Robert Acton, admires Eugenia and the sister of Robert Acton called Lizzie is loved by Clifford.
The question is: who does Eugenia fall for and can she even consider marrying when she is still officially married to the German prince?
All the answers are revealed at the end of this gentle, insightful novel full of witty comments and strong character portrayals.
Julian Worker Fiction Writing 