This is a rewrite of an earlier novel by Ann Victoria Roberts. Set in the 1890s in England, it has an interesting historical setting, leading up to the Boar War. The characters are very much entrenched in Victorian values. The main focus is on the romance between Louisa and Robert, the forbidden and inescapable passion between them. However, I found the character of Louisa's cousin, Edward, the most endearing. The story is threaded with many familial relationships and conflicts and though a little drawn out in parts, and somewhat confused with changing points of view, I enjoyed it. ( )

19th century England - modest customs, illegitimate girl, mistress lover, etc. - good. -

This classic romance, exquisitely told, is the sweeping chronicle of the life and loves of a remarkable woman-Louisa Elliott. Proud and determined, she battles to overcome the stigma of her illegitimate birth in the pitiless sums of York during the reign of Queen Victoria. An indomitable heroine, she is adored by her gentle, poetic cousin Edward, yet is irresistibly drawn into the passionate arms of Robert Duncannon-a handsome and dashing dragoon officer whose love could destroy forever Louisa's cherished dream of respectability.