by Mary Jo
I'm delighted to welcome Karen Harper to the Word Wenches again! She is a wonderful, and wonderfully prolific, writer of historical novels, mysteries, and so much more, and she is here to tell us about her just released novel, American Duchess, the story of Consuelo Vanderbilt, which has been chosen by Women's Day Magazine as one of the 10 Most Anticipated Books of 2019.
Over to you, Karen!
“Everyone was calling it the wedding of the century. I was calling it the worst day of my life.”
This quote is not from a tabloid article or scandal mag but rather the opening lines of my historical novel AMERICAN DUCHESS, told by Consuelo Vanderbilt, the American Duchess of the Gilded Age. After reading about Consuelo in the fascinating non-fiction book To Marry An English Lord by MacColl and Wallace and visiting Blenheim 
Palace in England, I knew she would make a fabulous main character. I had earlier toured a massive so-called “cottage” of her family in Newport, Rhode Island.
Consuelo, Duchess of Marlborough, became the poster girl for the shocking practice of ‘Dollar Brides’ or ‘Dollar Princesses.’ These were young women from rich American families who were (forcibly, in her case) wed to titled Englishmen so that they could replenish dwindling fortunes to save their grand estates. Remember, Cora, Lady Grantham in Downton Abbey was a ‘dollar bride,’ albeit one with a happy marriage.
In 18-year-old Consuelo’s case, her social-climbing mother bargained with the 9th Duke of Marlborough to make her daughter his duchess in exchange for much Vanderbilt money so that he could repair and enhance his heritage of vast Blenheim Palace. It hardly mattered that the bride was in love with someone else and that the duke disliked America and Americans.
Consuelo’s New York City marriage was dubbed the wedding of the century. Perhaps the 60-piece orchestra, 54-voiced choir singing 'O Perfect Love' and 4000 guests did make it undisputedly that. Consuelo moved to her new home of 187 rooms under acres of roof on what was then still operated like a feudal estate. Talk about lifestyles of the rich and famous! Yet Consuelo found ways to live her own life and help others. And, fortunately for an author who also likes to write and read great love stories, she managed to find and wed (in a small, private but joyous wedding) the love of her life.
If the Dollar Brides fascinate you as much as they did me, the Smithsonian channel has an entire series, Million Dollar American Princesses, in which Consuelo is featured. A clip of her wedding as depicted in the show can be seen there.
And just Googling Consuelo Vanderbilt or the 9th Duchess of Marlborough brings up amazing paintings and photos of this fabulous woman. The one included here is of the duke, Consuelo and their heir and a spare which hangs at Blenheim. By the way, the photo of Blenheim below is from the guidebook I bought there. It has the center crease in it, but it’s the best overall pic I have.
Here's a longer excerpt of the book for you to enjoy.
Please comment before midnight Saturday for a chance to win an autographed copy of AMERICAN DUCHESS. (US only)
You can visit Karen at www.KarenHarperAuthor.com or www.facebook.com/KarenHarperAuthor
MJP: Thanks so much, Karen. I've read the book, and can testify that it is one terrific story! Here's the picture from Karen's guidebook. Truly it is a palace!
I was sorry that our “British Experience” (the tour I keep talking about) didn’t stop at Blenheim. Our route took us near, but we didn’t stop there. A few years before we made that trip, Bob and I had already visited the Breakers (the Vanderbilt “Cottage”) it is a fascinating place, but it cemented my dislike of Mrs. Vanderbilt. I have also seen”Biltmore” at Asheville, North Carolina. That marriage between aristocracy and Vanderbilt money appears to have been much happier than Consuelo’s.
And, of course, Mary Jo, the article does remind me of YOUR “Wedding of the Century.”
I was sorry that our “British Experience” (the tour I keep talking about) didn’t stop at Blenheim. Our route took us near, but we didn’t stop there. A few years before we made that trip, Bob and I had already visited the Breakers (the Vanderbilt “Cottage”) it is a fascinating place, but it cemented my dislike of Mrs. Vanderbilt. I have also seen”Biltmore” at Asheville, North Carolina. That marriage between aristocracy and Vanderbilt money appears to have been much happier than Consuelo’s.
And, of course, Mary Jo, the article does remind me of YOUR “Wedding of the Century.”
I was sorry that our “British Experience” (the tour I keep talking about) didn’t stop at Blenheim. Our route took us near, but we didn’t stop there. A few years before we made that trip, Bob and I had already visited the Breakers (the Vanderbilt “Cottage”) it is a fascinating place, but it cemented my dislike of Mrs. Vanderbilt. I have also seen”Biltmore” at Asheville, North Carolina. That marriage between aristocracy and Vanderbilt money appears to have been much happier than Consuelo’s.
And, of course, Mary Jo, the article does remind me of YOUR “Wedding of the Century.”
I was sorry that our “British Experience” (the tour I keep talking about) didn’t stop at Blenheim. Our route took us near, but we didn’t stop there. A few years before we made that trip, Bob and I had already visited the Breakers (the Vanderbilt “Cottage”) it is a fascinating place, but it cemented my dislike of Mrs. Vanderbilt. I have also seen”Biltmore” at Asheville, North Carolina. That marriage between aristocracy and Vanderbilt money appears to have been much happier than Consuelo’s.
And, of course, Mary Jo, the article does remind me of YOUR “Wedding of the Century.”
I was sorry that our “British Experience” (the tour I keep talking about) didn’t stop at Blenheim. Our route took us near, but we didn’t stop there. A few years before we made that trip, Bob and I had already visited the Breakers (the Vanderbilt “Cottage”) it is a fascinating place, but it cemented my dislike of Mrs. Vanderbilt. I have also seen”Biltmore” at Asheville, North Carolina. That marriage between aristocracy and Vanderbilt money appears to have been much happier than Consuelo’s.
And, of course, Mary Jo, the article does remind me of YOUR “Wedding of the Century.”
It’s an interesting thought experiment to put oneself in the virtual shoes of a person living such a totally different kind of life. We would each react differently to the situation. You might say, I’d never let my mother browbeat/brainwash/persuade me into Consuelo’s acquiescence, or shudder to realize you would have been a complete patsy under Mrs. Vanderbilt’s overwhelming dominance and the animosity of the Marlboroughs. A little appreciative applause here for Consuelo’s winning through to love after all!
It’s an interesting thought experiment to put oneself in the virtual shoes of a person living such a totally different kind of life. We would each react differently to the situation. You might say, I’d never let my mother browbeat/brainwash/persuade me into Consuelo’s acquiescence, or shudder to realize you would have been a complete patsy under Mrs. Vanderbilt’s overwhelming dominance and the animosity of the Marlboroughs. A little appreciative applause here for Consuelo’s winning through to love after all!
It’s an interesting thought experiment to put oneself in the virtual shoes of a person living such a totally different kind of life. We would each react differently to the situation. You might say, I’d never let my mother browbeat/brainwash/persuade me into Consuelo’s acquiescence, or shudder to realize you would have been a complete patsy under Mrs. Vanderbilt’s overwhelming dominance and the animosity of the Marlboroughs. A little appreciative applause here for Consuelo’s winning through to love after all!
It’s an interesting thought experiment to put oneself in the virtual shoes of a person living such a totally different kind of life. We would each react differently to the situation. You might say, I’d never let my mother browbeat/brainwash/persuade me into Consuelo’s acquiescence, or shudder to realize you would have been a complete patsy under Mrs. Vanderbilt’s overwhelming dominance and the animosity of the Marlboroughs. A little appreciative applause here for Consuelo’s winning through to love after all!
It’s an interesting thought experiment to put oneself in the virtual shoes of a person living such a totally different kind of life. We would each react differently to the situation. You might say, I’d never let my mother browbeat/brainwash/persuade me into Consuelo’s acquiescence, or shudder to realize you would have been a complete patsy under Mrs. Vanderbilt’s overwhelming dominance and the animosity of the Marlboroughs. A little appreciative applause here for Consuelo’s winning through to love after all!
I’m interested now to read about how someone takes adverse conditions and then creates the outcome desired. I’m also curious about her husband, the Duke’s challenges and how he hoped this marriage would help him, and if it did.
I’m interested now to read about how someone takes adverse conditions and then creates the outcome desired. I’m also curious about her husband, the Duke’s challenges and how he hoped this marriage would help him, and if it did.
I’m interested now to read about how someone takes adverse conditions and then creates the outcome desired. I’m also curious about her husband, the Duke’s challenges and how he hoped this marriage would help him, and if it did.
I’m interested now to read about how someone takes adverse conditions and then creates the outcome desired. I’m also curious about her husband, the Duke’s challenges and how he hoped this marriage would help him, and if it did.
I’m interested now to read about how someone takes adverse conditions and then creates the outcome desired. I’m also curious about her husband, the Duke’s challenges and how he hoped this marriage would help him, and if it did.
Hi, Sue. Perhaps you will still see Blenheim someday. I believe Marble House, Consuelo’s childhood “cottage” is open, and I haven’t seen that, though I have been to other Vanderbilt mansions there. I have to admire how Consuelo did not just become a spoiled and jaded woman but reaches out to others less fortunate–who was about everyone! Karen Harper
Hi, Sue. Perhaps you will still see Blenheim someday. I believe Marble House, Consuelo’s childhood “cottage” is open, and I haven’t seen that, though I have been to other Vanderbilt mansions there. I have to admire how Consuelo did not just become a spoiled and jaded woman but reaches out to others less fortunate–who was about everyone! Karen Harper
Hi, Sue. Perhaps you will still see Blenheim someday. I believe Marble House, Consuelo’s childhood “cottage” is open, and I haven’t seen that, though I have been to other Vanderbilt mansions there. I have to admire how Consuelo did not just become a spoiled and jaded woman but reaches out to others less fortunate–who was about everyone! Karen Harper
Hi, Sue. Perhaps you will still see Blenheim someday. I believe Marble House, Consuelo’s childhood “cottage” is open, and I haven’t seen that, though I have been to other Vanderbilt mansions there. I have to admire how Consuelo did not just become a spoiled and jaded woman but reaches out to others less fortunate–who was about everyone! Karen Harper
Hi, Sue. Perhaps you will still see Blenheim someday. I believe Marble House, Consuelo’s childhood “cottage” is open, and I haven’t seen that, though I have been to other Vanderbilt mansions there. I have to admire how Consuelo did not just become a spoiled and jaded woman but reaches out to others less fortunate–who was about everyone! Karen Harper
I feel the same way about a brow-beating mother, but we are modern women in much different times. One of the huge challenges of a historical novelist is to try to mentally get into their heads, their culture. I also admire that Consuelo manages to pull herself out of a tough upbringing and a difficult marriage. On the Smithsonian Channel website, there is a 4-minute video titled “Could You Have Withstood Consuelo’s Upbringing?” They have an entire series on dollar brides also.
I feel the same way about a brow-beating mother, but we are modern women in much different times. One of the huge challenges of a historical novelist is to try to mentally get into their heads, their culture. I also admire that Consuelo manages to pull herself out of a tough upbringing and a difficult marriage. On the Smithsonian Channel website, there is a 4-minute video titled “Could You Have Withstood Consuelo’s Upbringing?” They have an entire series on dollar brides also.
I feel the same way about a brow-beating mother, but we are modern women in much different times. One of the huge challenges of a historical novelist is to try to mentally get into their heads, their culture. I also admire that Consuelo manages to pull herself out of a tough upbringing and a difficult marriage. On the Smithsonian Channel website, there is a 4-minute video titled “Could You Have Withstood Consuelo’s Upbringing?” They have an entire series on dollar brides also.
I feel the same way about a brow-beating mother, but we are modern women in much different times. One of the huge challenges of a historical novelist is to try to mentally get into their heads, their culture. I also admire that Consuelo manages to pull herself out of a tough upbringing and a difficult marriage. On the Smithsonian Channel website, there is a 4-minute video titled “Could You Have Withstood Consuelo’s Upbringing?” They have an entire series on dollar brides also.
I feel the same way about a brow-beating mother, but we are modern women in much different times. One of the huge challenges of a historical novelist is to try to mentally get into their heads, their culture. I also admire that Consuelo manages to pull herself out of a tough upbringing and a difficult marriage. On the Smithsonian Channel website, there is a 4-minute video titled “Could You Have Withstood Consuelo’s Upbringing?” They have an entire series on dollar brides also.
I have to admit, I didn’t like the duke, but I did try to understand him. The burden of his heritage, the cost of keeping up Blenheim… But he was not a good husband to say the least. His nickname was Sunny, which is humorous since he did NOT have a sunny personality. He did get his comeuppance in his second marriage (with a woman he had an affair with during his first) because wife #2 was really a mess–she’s in the book also.
I have to admit, I didn’t like the duke, but I did try to understand him. The burden of his heritage, the cost of keeping up Blenheim… But he was not a good husband to say the least. His nickname was Sunny, which is humorous since he did NOT have a sunny personality. He did get his comeuppance in his second marriage (with a woman he had an affair with during his first) because wife #2 was really a mess–she’s in the book also.
I have to admit, I didn’t like the duke, but I did try to understand him. The burden of his heritage, the cost of keeping up Blenheim… But he was not a good husband to say the least. His nickname was Sunny, which is humorous since he did NOT have a sunny personality. He did get his comeuppance in his second marriage (with a woman he had an affair with during his first) because wife #2 was really a mess–she’s in the book also.
I have to admit, I didn’t like the duke, but I did try to understand him. The burden of his heritage, the cost of keeping up Blenheim… But he was not a good husband to say the least. His nickname was Sunny, which is humorous since he did NOT have a sunny personality. He did get his comeuppance in his second marriage (with a woman he had an affair with during his first) because wife #2 was really a mess–she’s in the book also.
I have to admit, I didn’t like the duke, but I did try to understand him. The burden of his heritage, the cost of keeping up Blenheim… But he was not a good husband to say the least. His nickname was Sunny, which is humorous since he did NOT have a sunny personality. He did get his comeuppance in his second marriage (with a woman he had an affair with during his first) because wife #2 was really a mess–she’s in the book also.
The recent movie, The Favourite, gives a glimpse into the creating of Blenheim. The Marlboroughs are an interesting family. Her mother, Alva, was a very stern parent who forced her to wear an rod strapped to the back to improve her posture!
Alva has always reminded me if Queen Victoria and how she bullied her children.Consuelo was very lovely and she made the best of the bargain, but I have always wondered why she agreed to the annulment. The book sounds fascinating.
The recent movie, The Favourite, gives a glimpse into the creating of Blenheim. The Marlboroughs are an interesting family. Her mother, Alva, was a very stern parent who forced her to wear an rod strapped to the back to improve her posture!
Alva has always reminded me if Queen Victoria and how she bullied her children.Consuelo was very lovely and she made the best of the bargain, but I have always wondered why she agreed to the annulment. The book sounds fascinating.
The recent movie, The Favourite, gives a glimpse into the creating of Blenheim. The Marlboroughs are an interesting family. Her mother, Alva, was a very stern parent who forced her to wear an rod strapped to the back to improve her posture!
Alva has always reminded me if Queen Victoria and how she bullied her children.Consuelo was very lovely and she made the best of the bargain, but I have always wondered why she agreed to the annulment. The book sounds fascinating.
The recent movie, The Favourite, gives a glimpse into the creating of Blenheim. The Marlboroughs are an interesting family. Her mother, Alva, was a very stern parent who forced her to wear an rod strapped to the back to improve her posture!
Alva has always reminded me if Queen Victoria and how she bullied her children.Consuelo was very lovely and she made the best of the bargain, but I have always wondered why she agreed to the annulment. The book sounds fascinating.
The recent movie, The Favourite, gives a glimpse into the creating of Blenheim. The Marlboroughs are an interesting family. Her mother, Alva, was a very stern parent who forced her to wear an rod strapped to the back to improve her posture!
Alva has always reminded me if Queen Victoria and how she bullied her children.Consuelo was very lovely and she made the best of the bargain, but I have always wondered why she agreed to the annulment. The book sounds fascinating.
Sue, Blenheim is seriously amazing, but there is so MUCH to see on a tour of Britain!
No surprise that my “Wedding of the Century” novella is reminiscent; I wrote it over 20 years ago, but my inspiration was TO MARRY AN ENGLISH LORD, the same book that inspired Karen, and also inspired Julian Fellowes, the creator of DOWNTON ABBEY. It’s a GREAT book!
Sue, Blenheim is seriously amazing, but there is so MUCH to see on a tour of Britain!
No surprise that my “Wedding of the Century” novella is reminiscent; I wrote it over 20 years ago, but my inspiration was TO MARRY AN ENGLISH LORD, the same book that inspired Karen, and also inspired Julian Fellowes, the creator of DOWNTON ABBEY. It’s a GREAT book!
Sue, Blenheim is seriously amazing, but there is so MUCH to see on a tour of Britain!
No surprise that my “Wedding of the Century” novella is reminiscent; I wrote it over 20 years ago, but my inspiration was TO MARRY AN ENGLISH LORD, the same book that inspired Karen, and also inspired Julian Fellowes, the creator of DOWNTON ABBEY. It’s a GREAT book!
Sue, Blenheim is seriously amazing, but there is so MUCH to see on a tour of Britain!
No surprise that my “Wedding of the Century” novella is reminiscent; I wrote it over 20 years ago, but my inspiration was TO MARRY AN ENGLISH LORD, the same book that inspired Karen, and also inspired Julian Fellowes, the creator of DOWNTON ABBEY. It’s a GREAT book!
Sue, Blenheim is seriously amazing, but there is so MUCH to see on a tour of Britain!
No surprise that my “Wedding of the Century” novella is reminiscent; I wrote it over 20 years ago, but my inspiration was TO MARRY AN ENGLISH LORD, the same book that inspired Karen, and also inspired Julian Fellowes, the creator of DOWNTON ABBEY. It’s a GREAT book!
Janice, AMERICAN DUCHESS is a great read. The comparison between Queen Victoria and Alva Vanderbilt is very apt: they were both matriarchs of the same era, and NOT easy to deal with!
Janice, AMERICAN DUCHESS is a great read. The comparison between Queen Victoria and Alva Vanderbilt is very apt: they were both matriarchs of the same era, and NOT easy to deal with!
Janice, AMERICAN DUCHESS is a great read. The comparison between Queen Victoria and Alva Vanderbilt is very apt: they were both matriarchs of the same era, and NOT easy to deal with!
Janice, AMERICAN DUCHESS is a great read. The comparison between Queen Victoria and Alva Vanderbilt is very apt: they were both matriarchs of the same era, and NOT easy to deal with!
Janice, AMERICAN DUCHESS is a great read. The comparison between Queen Victoria and Alva Vanderbilt is very apt: they were both matriarchs of the same era, and NOT easy to deal with!
Fascinating review, I’ll have to put this book on my want list also. I’ve got To Marry an English Lord on my TBR shelf so I guess I’d better get cracking and read it.
Years and years ago I read a 2 volume biography about Lady Randolph Churchill (Jennie) who was Winston Churchill’s mother. I’ve always been fascinated with the culture shock and snobbery the American girls encountered and had to withstand from the British aristocracy.
Fascinating review, I’ll have to put this book on my want list also. I’ve got To Marry an English Lord on my TBR shelf so I guess I’d better get cracking and read it.
Years and years ago I read a 2 volume biography about Lady Randolph Churchill (Jennie) who was Winston Churchill’s mother. I’ve always been fascinated with the culture shock and snobbery the American girls encountered and had to withstand from the British aristocracy.
Fascinating review, I’ll have to put this book on my want list also. I’ve got To Marry an English Lord on my TBR shelf so I guess I’d better get cracking and read it.
Years and years ago I read a 2 volume biography about Lady Randolph Churchill (Jennie) who was Winston Churchill’s mother. I’ve always been fascinated with the culture shock and snobbery the American girls encountered and had to withstand from the British aristocracy.
Fascinating review, I’ll have to put this book on my want list also. I’ve got To Marry an English Lord on my TBR shelf so I guess I’d better get cracking and read it.
Years and years ago I read a 2 volume biography about Lady Randolph Churchill (Jennie) who was Winston Churchill’s mother. I’ve always been fascinated with the culture shock and snobbery the American girls encountered and had to withstand from the British aristocracy.
Fascinating review, I’ll have to put this book on my want list also. I’ve got To Marry an English Lord on my TBR shelf so I guess I’d better get cracking and read it.
Years and years ago I read a 2 volume biography about Lady Randolph Churchill (Jennie) who was Winston Churchill’s mother. I’ve always been fascinated with the culture shock and snobbery the American girls encountered and had to withstand from the British aristocracy.
Congratulations! The American Duchess sounds captivating and memorable. These arranged marriages to benefit the British Lords since they were destitute were sad, but considered a benefit for the brides. After watching Downton which was very enjoyable their lifestyle was incomparable.
Congratulations! The American Duchess sounds captivating and memorable. These arranged marriages to benefit the British Lords since they were destitute were sad, but considered a benefit for the brides. After watching Downton which was very enjoyable their lifestyle was incomparable.
Congratulations! The American Duchess sounds captivating and memorable. These arranged marriages to benefit the British Lords since they were destitute were sad, but considered a benefit for the brides. After watching Downton which was very enjoyable their lifestyle was incomparable.
Congratulations! The American Duchess sounds captivating and memorable. These arranged marriages to benefit the British Lords since they were destitute were sad, but considered a benefit for the brides. After watching Downton which was very enjoyable their lifestyle was incomparable.
Congratulations! The American Duchess sounds captivating and memorable. These arranged marriages to benefit the British Lords since they were destitute were sad, but considered a benefit for the brides. After watching Downton which was very enjoyable their lifestyle was incomparable.
We visited UK in 2000 and visited Blenheim, it was amazing! I didn’t know any of the back history besides what they tell you. This book will be interesting to read.
We visited UK in 2000 and visited Blenheim, it was amazing! I didn’t know any of the back history besides what they tell you. This book will be interesting to read.
We visited UK in 2000 and visited Blenheim, it was amazing! I didn’t know any of the back history besides what they tell you. This book will be interesting to read.
We visited UK in 2000 and visited Blenheim, it was amazing! I didn’t know any of the back history besides what they tell you. This book will be interesting to read.
We visited UK in 2000 and visited Blenheim, it was amazing! I didn’t know any of the back history besides what they tell you. This book will be interesting to read.
Fascinating woman! Hard to grasp that the “marriage mart” existed so far into the 20th Century and was so avidly followed. The current media focus on celebrity seems so “now” when in reality it’s always been a part of life. History records the “favorites” of the famous and infamous of kings, popes and pharohs. Makes for wonderful reading!
Fascinating woman! Hard to grasp that the “marriage mart” existed so far into the 20th Century and was so avidly followed. The current media focus on celebrity seems so “now” when in reality it’s always been a part of life. History records the “favorites” of the famous and infamous of kings, popes and pharohs. Makes for wonderful reading!
Fascinating woman! Hard to grasp that the “marriage mart” existed so far into the 20th Century and was so avidly followed. The current media focus on celebrity seems so “now” when in reality it’s always been a part of life. History records the “favorites” of the famous and infamous of kings, popes and pharohs. Makes for wonderful reading!
Fascinating woman! Hard to grasp that the “marriage mart” existed so far into the 20th Century and was so avidly followed. The current media focus on celebrity seems so “now” when in reality it’s always been a part of life. History records the “favorites” of the famous and infamous of kings, popes and pharohs. Makes for wonderful reading!
Fascinating woman! Hard to grasp that the “marriage mart” existed so far into the 20th Century and was so avidly followed. The current media focus on celebrity seems so “now” when in reality it’s always been a part of life. History records the “favorites” of the famous and infamous of kings, popes and pharohs. Makes for wonderful reading!
My mother and I read many of the blessed, horrid, and infamous Cash for Class marriages of the late 19th and early 20th Centuries. We would read and talk about the people and the times. It’s no wonder in my family as to why I’m a historian. They are fascinating stories that have inspired some of the best romances I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. In Consuelo’s case fiction is only a mere shadow of the facts of her life. Alma Vanderbilt is a candidate, and possibly the winner of the Mother-from-Hell, Joan Crawford finishing second by a nose! I’m looking forward to reading your book, it sounds fascinating!
My mother and I read many of the blessed, horrid, and infamous Cash for Class marriages of the late 19th and early 20th Centuries. We would read and talk about the people and the times. It’s no wonder in my family as to why I’m a historian. They are fascinating stories that have inspired some of the best romances I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. In Consuelo’s case fiction is only a mere shadow of the facts of her life. Alma Vanderbilt is a candidate, and possibly the winner of the Mother-from-Hell, Joan Crawford finishing second by a nose! I’m looking forward to reading your book, it sounds fascinating!
My mother and I read many of the blessed, horrid, and infamous Cash for Class marriages of the late 19th and early 20th Centuries. We would read and talk about the people and the times. It’s no wonder in my family as to why I’m a historian. They are fascinating stories that have inspired some of the best romances I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. In Consuelo’s case fiction is only a mere shadow of the facts of her life. Alma Vanderbilt is a candidate, and possibly the winner of the Mother-from-Hell, Joan Crawford finishing second by a nose! I’m looking forward to reading your book, it sounds fascinating!
My mother and I read many of the blessed, horrid, and infamous Cash for Class marriages of the late 19th and early 20th Centuries. We would read and talk about the people and the times. It’s no wonder in my family as to why I’m a historian. They are fascinating stories that have inspired some of the best romances I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. In Consuelo’s case fiction is only a mere shadow of the facts of her life. Alma Vanderbilt is a candidate, and possibly the winner of the Mother-from-Hell, Joan Crawford finishing second by a nose! I’m looking forward to reading your book, it sounds fascinating!
My mother and I read many of the blessed, horrid, and infamous Cash for Class marriages of the late 19th and early 20th Centuries. We would read and talk about the people and the times. It’s no wonder in my family as to why I’m a historian. They are fascinating stories that have inspired some of the best romances I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. In Consuelo’s case fiction is only a mere shadow of the facts of her life. Alma Vanderbilt is a candidate, and possibly the winner of the Mother-from-Hell, Joan Crawford finishing second by a nose! I’m looking forward to reading your book, it sounds fascinating!
All those marriages were prime examples of “money cannot buy happiness”. Jenny Jerome and many of the other young women who were sold to the British aristocracy led lives that became much less than happily ever after.
But, it appears that Consuelo overcame everything to become a person who lived a full and happy life. I am so glad she got to marry the love of her life.
And absolutely, it is always interesting to me when someone begins to explain why they would “never” have done or said things which were done and said during the past. We live now and our sensibilities and outlook are nothing like what came before.
I am old. I went to grade school, junior high and high school at a time when girls wore skirts or dresses. There was never a question, those were the rules. And you certainly were expected to dress like a young lady.
I went to college at a very good, small, private school. Girls were expected to join the right sorority, meet the right boys from the right fraternities and get married. A career was not expected.
LIfe is different now and we should be happy about that. But, don’t forget the women and girls who came before us. They lived in a different time.
All those marriages were prime examples of “money cannot buy happiness”. Jenny Jerome and many of the other young women who were sold to the British aristocracy led lives that became much less than happily ever after.
But, it appears that Consuelo overcame everything to become a person who lived a full and happy life. I am so glad she got to marry the love of her life.
And absolutely, it is always interesting to me when someone begins to explain why they would “never” have done or said things which were done and said during the past. We live now and our sensibilities and outlook are nothing like what came before.
I am old. I went to grade school, junior high and high school at a time when girls wore skirts or dresses. There was never a question, those were the rules. And you certainly were expected to dress like a young lady.
I went to college at a very good, small, private school. Girls were expected to join the right sorority, meet the right boys from the right fraternities and get married. A career was not expected.
LIfe is different now and we should be happy about that. But, don’t forget the women and girls who came before us. They lived in a different time.
All those marriages were prime examples of “money cannot buy happiness”. Jenny Jerome and many of the other young women who were sold to the British aristocracy led lives that became much less than happily ever after.
But, it appears that Consuelo overcame everything to become a person who lived a full and happy life. I am so glad she got to marry the love of her life.
And absolutely, it is always interesting to me when someone begins to explain why they would “never” have done or said things which were done and said during the past. We live now and our sensibilities and outlook are nothing like what came before.
I am old. I went to grade school, junior high and high school at a time when girls wore skirts or dresses. There was never a question, those were the rules. And you certainly were expected to dress like a young lady.
I went to college at a very good, small, private school. Girls were expected to join the right sorority, meet the right boys from the right fraternities and get married. A career was not expected.
LIfe is different now and we should be happy about that. But, don’t forget the women and girls who came before us. They lived in a different time.
All those marriages were prime examples of “money cannot buy happiness”. Jenny Jerome and many of the other young women who were sold to the British aristocracy led lives that became much less than happily ever after.
But, it appears that Consuelo overcame everything to become a person who lived a full and happy life. I am so glad she got to marry the love of her life.
And absolutely, it is always interesting to me when someone begins to explain why they would “never” have done or said things which were done and said during the past. We live now and our sensibilities and outlook are nothing like what came before.
I am old. I went to grade school, junior high and high school at a time when girls wore skirts or dresses. There was never a question, those were the rules. And you certainly were expected to dress like a young lady.
I went to college at a very good, small, private school. Girls were expected to join the right sorority, meet the right boys from the right fraternities and get married. A career was not expected.
LIfe is different now and we should be happy about that. But, don’t forget the women and girls who came before us. They lived in a different time.
All those marriages were prime examples of “money cannot buy happiness”. Jenny Jerome and many of the other young women who were sold to the British aristocracy led lives that became much less than happily ever after.
But, it appears that Consuelo overcame everything to become a person who lived a full and happy life. I am so glad she got to marry the love of her life.
And absolutely, it is always interesting to me when someone begins to explain why they would “never” have done or said things which were done and said during the past. We live now and our sensibilities and outlook are nothing like what came before.
I am old. I went to grade school, junior high and high school at a time when girls wore skirts or dresses. There was never a question, those were the rules. And you certainly were expected to dress like a young lady.
I went to college at a very good, small, private school. Girls were expected to join the right sorority, meet the right boys from the right fraternities and get married. A career was not expected.
LIfe is different now and we should be happy about that. But, don’t forget the women and girls who came before us. They lived in a different time.
Annette N: We are of a generation that changed things (everyone is of a generation that changed things). Some changes are more startling than others.
We made changes, but we are also those youngsters of earlier times. I agree with you that we need to “get into” those other times(both earlier and later than our childhoods) before we judge their actions.
I feel it is fair to say, for example, the Regency society was often extremely rude for I believe the haut ton were rude by any standards. But any given action should be viewed in the light of that rudeness. This would carry over to the rudeness of the late 18th and early 20th centuries toward the dollar brides.
Another example: Slavery as practiced in the times of the history of the U. S. was never correct. How a given person acted who lived in those times must be judged by the values of the majority of those who lived in those times, as opposed to how we would judge today.
Annette N: We are of a generation that changed things (everyone is of a generation that changed things). Some changes are more startling than others.
We made changes, but we are also those youngsters of earlier times. I agree with you that we need to “get into” those other times(both earlier and later than our childhoods) before we judge their actions.
I feel it is fair to say, for example, the Regency society was often extremely rude for I believe the haut ton were rude by any standards. But any given action should be viewed in the light of that rudeness. This would carry over to the rudeness of the late 18th and early 20th centuries toward the dollar brides.
Another example: Slavery as practiced in the times of the history of the U. S. was never correct. How a given person acted who lived in those times must be judged by the values of the majority of those who lived in those times, as opposed to how we would judge today.
Annette N: We are of a generation that changed things (everyone is of a generation that changed things). Some changes are more startling than others.
We made changes, but we are also those youngsters of earlier times. I agree with you that we need to “get into” those other times(both earlier and later than our childhoods) before we judge their actions.
I feel it is fair to say, for example, the Regency society was often extremely rude for I believe the haut ton were rude by any standards. But any given action should be viewed in the light of that rudeness. This would carry over to the rudeness of the late 18th and early 20th centuries toward the dollar brides.
Another example: Slavery as practiced in the times of the history of the U. S. was never correct. How a given person acted who lived in those times must be judged by the values of the majority of those who lived in those times, as opposed to how we would judge today.
Annette N: We are of a generation that changed things (everyone is of a generation that changed things). Some changes are more startling than others.
We made changes, but we are also those youngsters of earlier times. I agree with you that we need to “get into” those other times(both earlier and later than our childhoods) before we judge their actions.
I feel it is fair to say, for example, the Regency society was often extremely rude for I believe the haut ton were rude by any standards. But any given action should be viewed in the light of that rudeness. This would carry over to the rudeness of the late 18th and early 20th centuries toward the dollar brides.
Another example: Slavery as practiced in the times of the history of the U. S. was never correct. How a given person acted who lived in those times must be judged by the values of the majority of those who lived in those times, as opposed to how we would judge today.
Annette N: We are of a generation that changed things (everyone is of a generation that changed things). Some changes are more startling than others.
We made changes, but we are also those youngsters of earlier times. I agree with you that we need to “get into” those other times(both earlier and later than our childhoods) before we judge their actions.
I feel it is fair to say, for example, the Regency society was often extremely rude for I believe the haut ton were rude by any standards. But any given action should be viewed in the light of that rudeness. This would carry over to the rudeness of the late 18th and early 20th centuries toward the dollar brides.
Another example: Slavery as practiced in the times of the history of the U. S. was never correct. How a given person acted who lived in those times must be judged by the values of the majority of those who lived in those times, as opposed to how we would judge today.
The book sounds marvelous. No matter the era, I think there’s always a price to pay – on every side. My TBR pile is a wall by now I think.
The book sounds marvelous. No matter the era, I think there’s always a price to pay – on every side. My TBR pile is a wall by now I think.
The book sounds marvelous. No matter the era, I think there’s always a price to pay – on every side. My TBR pile is a wall by now I think.
The book sounds marvelous. No matter the era, I think there’s always a price to pay – on every side. My TBR pile is a wall by now I think.
The book sounds marvelous. No matter the era, I think there’s always a price to pay – on every side. My TBR pile is a wall by now I think.
Except for Downton Abbey, and a few Masterpiece theater and BBC productions a decade or so ago I know little of this time in history. I know it’s dangerous to assume you know history from watching movies about the time period, and depending on my age at the time or frame of mind I could have easily remembered the costumes more than the story and it’s historical significance. But that said, this book made me go Googling for hours today. This sounds like a fascinating read, the trials more painful because they were true. Together with this new book of yours, Ms. Harper, (and the ones I’ve remembered popping up on my radar) has given me the kick in the sit-upon to look into more of later 19th and early 20th century history. I love that! Thank you!
From the photo above, how does anyone actually live in a palace like that? You could go a month without seeing the same person twice. Probably your husband!
Except for Downton Abbey, and a few Masterpiece theater and BBC productions a decade or so ago I know little of this time in history. I know it’s dangerous to assume you know history from watching movies about the time period, and depending on my age at the time or frame of mind I could have easily remembered the costumes more than the story and it’s historical significance. But that said, this book made me go Googling for hours today. This sounds like a fascinating read, the trials more painful because they were true. Together with this new book of yours, Ms. Harper, (and the ones I’ve remembered popping up on my radar) has given me the kick in the sit-upon to look into more of later 19th and early 20th century history. I love that! Thank you!
From the photo above, how does anyone actually live in a palace like that? You could go a month without seeing the same person twice. Probably your husband!
Except for Downton Abbey, and a few Masterpiece theater and BBC productions a decade or so ago I know little of this time in history. I know it’s dangerous to assume you know history from watching movies about the time period, and depending on my age at the time or frame of mind I could have easily remembered the costumes more than the story and it’s historical significance. But that said, this book made me go Googling for hours today. This sounds like a fascinating read, the trials more painful because they were true. Together with this new book of yours, Ms. Harper, (and the ones I’ve remembered popping up on my radar) has given me the kick in the sit-upon to look into more of later 19th and early 20th century history. I love that! Thank you!
From the photo above, how does anyone actually live in a palace like that? You could go a month without seeing the same person twice. Probably your husband!
Except for Downton Abbey, and a few Masterpiece theater and BBC productions a decade or so ago I know little of this time in history. I know it’s dangerous to assume you know history from watching movies about the time period, and depending on my age at the time or frame of mind I could have easily remembered the costumes more than the story and it’s historical significance. But that said, this book made me go Googling for hours today. This sounds like a fascinating read, the trials more painful because they were true. Together with this new book of yours, Ms. Harper, (and the ones I’ve remembered popping up on my radar) has given me the kick in the sit-upon to look into more of later 19th and early 20th century history. I love that! Thank you!
From the photo above, how does anyone actually live in a palace like that? You could go a month without seeing the same person twice. Probably your husband!
Except for Downton Abbey, and a few Masterpiece theater and BBC productions a decade or so ago I know little of this time in history. I know it’s dangerous to assume you know history from watching movies about the time period, and depending on my age at the time or frame of mind I could have easily remembered the costumes more than the story and it’s historical significance. But that said, this book made me go Googling for hours today. This sounds like a fascinating read, the trials more painful because they were true. Together with this new book of yours, Ms. Harper, (and the ones I’ve remembered popping up on my radar) has given me the kick in the sit-upon to look into more of later 19th and early 20th century history. I love that! Thank you!
From the photo above, how does anyone actually live in a palace like that? You could go a month without seeing the same person twice. Probably your husband!
I can’t wait to read this book! I’ve read many of Karen’s previous books, and really enjoyed them, so this is definitely on my TBR list.
I can’t wait to read this book! I’ve read many of Karen’s previous books, and really enjoyed them, so this is definitely on my TBR list.
I can’t wait to read this book! I’ve read many of Karen’s previous books, and really enjoyed them, so this is definitely on my TBR list.
I can’t wait to read this book! I’ve read many of Karen’s previous books, and really enjoyed them, so this is definitely on my TBR list.
I can’t wait to read this book! I’ve read many of Karen’s previous books, and really enjoyed them, so this is definitely on my TBR list.
And not seeing your husband is one of the pluses if he’s like Consuelo’s husband. *G* These marriages weren’t always happy, but wealth did allow women to create more independent lives within the marriage if they so chose.
And not seeing your husband is one of the pluses if he’s like Consuelo’s husband. *G* These marriages weren’t always happy, but wealth did allow women to create more independent lives within the marriage if they so chose.
And not seeing your husband is one of the pluses if he’s like Consuelo’s husband. *G* These marriages weren’t always happy, but wealth did allow women to create more independent lives within the marriage if they so chose.
And not seeing your husband is one of the pluses if he’s like Consuelo’s husband. *G* These marriages weren’t always happy, but wealth did allow women to create more independent lives within the marriage if they so chose.
And not seeing your husband is one of the pluses if he’s like Consuelo’s husband. *G* These marriages weren’t always happy, but wealth did allow women to create more independent lives within the marriage if they so chose.
I have recently finished Anne DeCoursey’s book The Husband Hunters. I was absolutely amazed at how much money these rich Americans were willing to spend to make an impression….particularly in marrying off their daughters.
I have recently finished Anne DeCoursey’s book The Husband Hunters. I was absolutely amazed at how much money these rich Americans were willing to spend to make an impression….particularly in marrying off their daughters.
I have recently finished Anne DeCoursey’s book The Husband Hunters. I was absolutely amazed at how much money these rich Americans were willing to spend to make an impression….particularly in marrying off their daughters.
I have recently finished Anne DeCoursey’s book The Husband Hunters. I was absolutely amazed at how much money these rich Americans were willing to spend to make an impression….particularly in marrying off their daughters.
I have recently finished Anne DeCoursey’s book The Husband Hunters. I was absolutely amazed at how much money these rich Americans were willing to spend to make an impression….particularly in marrying off their daughters.
The duke got out of it what he wanted: money to repair his estate; an heir and a spare; a beautiful, popular wife who helped him earn his way back in the king’s good graces (after his father had annoyed the kind.) But sadly, the duke missed out on things he probably could have had if he had worked at it: a wife who loved him. I loved to see in my research too that this American woman was bold enough to change some of the feudal ways of that great estate–to really help its people on a personal level.
The duke got out of it what he wanted: money to repair his estate; an heir and a spare; a beautiful, popular wife who helped him earn his way back in the king’s good graces (after his father had annoyed the kind.) But sadly, the duke missed out on things he probably could have had if he had worked at it: a wife who loved him. I loved to see in my research too that this American woman was bold enough to change some of the feudal ways of that great estate–to really help its people on a personal level.
The duke got out of it what he wanted: money to repair his estate; an heir and a spare; a beautiful, popular wife who helped him earn his way back in the king’s good graces (after his father had annoyed the kind.) But sadly, the duke missed out on things he probably could have had if he had worked at it: a wife who loved him. I loved to see in my research too that this American woman was bold enough to change some of the feudal ways of that great estate–to really help its people on a personal level.
The duke got out of it what he wanted: money to repair his estate; an heir and a spare; a beautiful, popular wife who helped him earn his way back in the king’s good graces (after his father had annoyed the kind.) But sadly, the duke missed out on things he probably could have had if he had worked at it: a wife who loved him. I loved to see in my research too that this American woman was bold enough to change some of the feudal ways of that great estate–to really help its people on a personal level.
The duke got out of it what he wanted: money to repair his estate; an heir and a spare; a beautiful, popular wife who helped him earn his way back in the king’s good graces (after his father had annoyed the kind.) But sadly, the duke missed out on things he probably could have had if he had worked at it: a wife who loved him. I loved to see in my research too that this American woman was bold enough to change some of the feudal ways of that great estate–to really help its people on a personal level.
She agreed to the annulment because her (2nd) husband’s very Catholic family was uncomfortable without it. She did it for her 2nd husband, whom she greatly loved. BTW, I was also fascinated by the 1st Duchess, Sarah, so she makes a ghostly appearance in my novel. I loved the old BBC production of The First Churchills. Sarah would make a fabulous heroine too, though she had a bit of a temper problem.
She agreed to the annulment because her (2nd) husband’s very Catholic family was uncomfortable without it. She did it for her 2nd husband, whom she greatly loved. BTW, I was also fascinated by the 1st Duchess, Sarah, so she makes a ghostly appearance in my novel. I loved the old BBC production of The First Churchills. Sarah would make a fabulous heroine too, though she had a bit of a temper problem.
She agreed to the annulment because her (2nd) husband’s very Catholic family was uncomfortable without it. She did it for her 2nd husband, whom she greatly loved. BTW, I was also fascinated by the 1st Duchess, Sarah, so she makes a ghostly appearance in my novel. I loved the old BBC production of The First Churchills. Sarah would make a fabulous heroine too, though she had a bit of a temper problem.
She agreed to the annulment because her (2nd) husband’s very Catholic family was uncomfortable without it. She did it for her 2nd husband, whom she greatly loved. BTW, I was also fascinated by the 1st Duchess, Sarah, so she makes a ghostly appearance in my novel. I loved the old BBC production of The First Churchills. Sarah would make a fabulous heroine too, though she had a bit of a temper problem.
She agreed to the annulment because her (2nd) husband’s very Catholic family was uncomfortable without it. She did it for her 2nd husband, whom she greatly loved. BTW, I was also fascinated by the 1st Duchess, Sarah, so she makes a ghostly appearance in my novel. I loved the old BBC production of The First Churchills. Sarah would make a fabulous heroine too, though she had a bit of a temper problem.
Yes, Jennie Jerome was a ‘dollar bride.’ Also, remember Cora Crowley in Downton Abbey would fit that description too. I’m so glad that was a love match, because some of those “set up, forced” marriages, like Consuelo’s certainly were not.
Yes, Jennie Jerome was a ‘dollar bride.’ Also, remember Cora Crowley in Downton Abbey would fit that description too. I’m so glad that was a love match, because some of those “set up, forced” marriages, like Consuelo’s certainly were not.
Yes, Jennie Jerome was a ‘dollar bride.’ Also, remember Cora Crowley in Downton Abbey would fit that description too. I’m so glad that was a love match, because some of those “set up, forced” marriages, like Consuelo’s certainly were not.
Yes, Jennie Jerome was a ‘dollar bride.’ Also, remember Cora Crowley in Downton Abbey would fit that description too. I’m so glad that was a love match, because some of those “set up, forced” marriages, like Consuelo’s certainly were not.
Yes, Jennie Jerome was a ‘dollar bride.’ Also, remember Cora Crowley in Downton Abbey would fit that description too. I’m so glad that was a love match, because some of those “set up, forced” marriages, like Consuelo’s certainly were not.
Speaking of current media focus, some of the publicity for AMERICAN DUCHESS says, “Before there was Meghan Markle, there was Consuelo vanderbilt, the original American Duchess.” I hope some casual readers don’t expect to find Meghan and Harry in the story. Years ago, a reader returned my novel THE FIRST PRINCESS OF WALES (Joan of Kent/Black Prince) to a Barnes & Noble (the book had a Medieval cover and cover copy) because “Princess Diana was not in it at all!” Really! Sad? Funny? Both, I guess.
Speaking of current media focus, some of the publicity for AMERICAN DUCHESS says, “Before there was Meghan Markle, there was Consuelo vanderbilt, the original American Duchess.” I hope some casual readers don’t expect to find Meghan and Harry in the story. Years ago, a reader returned my novel THE FIRST PRINCESS OF WALES (Joan of Kent/Black Prince) to a Barnes & Noble (the book had a Medieval cover and cover copy) because “Princess Diana was not in it at all!” Really! Sad? Funny? Both, I guess.
Speaking of current media focus, some of the publicity for AMERICAN DUCHESS says, “Before there was Meghan Markle, there was Consuelo vanderbilt, the original American Duchess.” I hope some casual readers don’t expect to find Meghan and Harry in the story. Years ago, a reader returned my novel THE FIRST PRINCESS OF WALES (Joan of Kent/Black Prince) to a Barnes & Noble (the book had a Medieval cover and cover copy) because “Princess Diana was not in it at all!” Really! Sad? Funny? Both, I guess.
Speaking of current media focus, some of the publicity for AMERICAN DUCHESS says, “Before there was Meghan Markle, there was Consuelo vanderbilt, the original American Duchess.” I hope some casual readers don’t expect to find Meghan and Harry in the story. Years ago, a reader returned my novel THE FIRST PRINCESS OF WALES (Joan of Kent/Black Prince) to a Barnes & Noble (the book had a Medieval cover and cover copy) because “Princess Diana was not in it at all!” Really! Sad? Funny? Both, I guess.
Speaking of current media focus, some of the publicity for AMERICAN DUCHESS says, “Before there was Meghan Markle, there was Consuelo vanderbilt, the original American Duchess.” I hope some casual readers don’t expect to find Meghan and Harry in the story. Years ago, a reader returned my novel THE FIRST PRINCESS OF WALES (Joan of Kent/Black Prince) to a Barnes & Noble (the book had a Medieval cover and cover copy) because “Princess Diana was not in it at all!” Really! Sad? Funny? Both, I guess.
Thanks, Pamela. And I love that ‘cash for class’ wording. In all my research, I had not come across that.
Thanks, Pamela. And I love that ‘cash for class’ wording. In all my research, I had not come across that.
Thanks, Pamela. And I love that ‘cash for class’ wording. In all my research, I had not come across that.
Thanks, Pamela. And I love that ‘cash for class’ wording. In all my research, I had not come across that.
Thanks, Pamela. And I love that ‘cash for class’ wording. In all my research, I had not come across that.
Thanks so much for your response–and all the thoughtful comments here on the fabulous Word Wenches.
Thanks so much for your response–and all the thoughtful comments here on the fabulous Word Wenches.
Thanks so much for your response–and all the thoughtful comments here on the fabulous Word Wenches.
Thanks so much for your response–and all the thoughtful comments here on the fabulous Word Wenches.
Thanks so much for your response–and all the thoughtful comments here on the fabulous Word Wenches.
I agree about tbr piles. I tend to binge read between my novel writing, so I don’t get distracted.
I agree about tbr piles. I tend to binge read between my novel writing, so I don’t get distracted.
I agree about tbr piles. I tend to binge read between my novel writing, so I don’t get distracted.
I agree about tbr piles. I tend to binge read between my novel writing, so I don’t get distracted.
I agree about tbr piles. I tend to binge read between my novel writing, so I don’t get distracted.
And then there is the huge estate beyond that building. I know what you mean about going down research/reading rabbit holes. When I switched from focusing on Tudor era novels, I read late Victorian/Edwardian background for almost 3 years before I switches eras. And, of course, this book and the one I just completed, also move into the World War II era, so that was even more reading. But it is a labor of love.
And then there is the huge estate beyond that building. I know what you mean about going down research/reading rabbit holes. When I switched from focusing on Tudor era novels, I read late Victorian/Edwardian background for almost 3 years before I switches eras. And, of course, this book and the one I just completed, also move into the World War II era, so that was even more reading. But it is a labor of love.
And then there is the huge estate beyond that building. I know what you mean about going down research/reading rabbit holes. When I switched from focusing on Tudor era novels, I read late Victorian/Edwardian background for almost 3 years before I switches eras. And, of course, this book and the one I just completed, also move into the World War II era, so that was even more reading. But it is a labor of love.
And then there is the huge estate beyond that building. I know what you mean about going down research/reading rabbit holes. When I switched from focusing on Tudor era novels, I read late Victorian/Edwardian background for almost 3 years before I switches eras. And, of course, this book and the one I just completed, also move into the World War II era, so that was even more reading. But it is a labor of love.
And then there is the huge estate beyond that building. I know what you mean about going down research/reading rabbit holes. When I switched from focusing on Tudor era novels, I read late Victorian/Edwardian background for almost 3 years before I switches eras. And, of course, this book and the one I just completed, also move into the World War II era, so that was even more reading. But it is a labor of love.
Thanks, Jane. Happy reading!
Thanks, Jane. Happy reading!
Thanks, Jane. Happy reading!
Thanks, Jane. Happy reading!
Thanks, Jane. Happy reading!
The ‘snob appeal’ to rich Americans from getting a British title in the family is amazing.
The ‘snob appeal’ to rich Americans from getting a British title in the family is amazing.
The ‘snob appeal’ to rich Americans from getting a British title in the family is amazing.
The ‘snob appeal’ to rich Americans from getting a British title in the family is amazing.
The ‘snob appeal’ to rich Americans from getting a British title in the family is amazing.
Sounds like this will be a fascinating book to read.
Sounds like this will be a fascinating book to read.
Sounds like this will be a fascinating book to read.
Sounds like this will be a fascinating book to read.
Sounds like this will be a fascinating book to read.