Review: Her Heart for a Compass

Title: Her Heart for a Compass

Author: Sarah Ferguson - Duchess of York

Publisher: 3rd August 2021 by HarperCollins Australia & Mills and Boon

Pages: 540 pages

How I Read It: ARC book

Genre: historical fiction, romance

My Rating: 4.5 cups

Synopsis:

London 1865

In an attempt to rebel against a society where women are expected to conform, free-spirited Lady Margaret Montagu Scott flees the confines of polite society, and an arranged marriage. But Lady Margaret’s parents, the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch, as close friends with Queen Victoria, must face the public scrutiny of their daughter’s impulsive nature, and Margaret is banished from polite society.

Finding strength amongst equally free-spirited companions, including Queen Victoria’s daughter Princess Louise, Margaret resolves to follow her heart. On a journey of self-discovery that will take her to Ireland, America, and then back to Britain, Lady Margaret must follow her internal compass and search for her place, and her own identity, in a changing society.

Incorporating research into her heritage and drawing upon her own unique life journey and experiences, the Duchess pens a fictional account of the life of her great-great-aunt, Lady Margaret Montagu Douglas Scott. Rich in historical detail, Her Heart for a Compass offers a compelling look at Victorian England and the fascinating journey of a woman, born into the higher echelons of society, whose only desire is to follow her heart.

With co-writer Marguerite Kaye, an accomplished Mills & Boon historical author, The Duchess has created a breathtaking romantic novel of daring to follow your heart against all odds. Set amongst the drawing rooms of Victoria’s court, and the grand country houses of Scotland and Ireland.

My Thoughts

What a great story this turned out to be - a little lengthy in places - yet, overall fabulously well researched and presented. This is the story of Lady Margaret Montagu Douglas Scott, daughter of the Duke Of Buccleuch, from the age of eighteen to twenty seven. She is an ancestor of the current Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson. The year is 1865 and London society dictates the role for young women, however, Lady Margaret rebels against society and her fathers wishes, embarking on her own path.

‘But first and foremost, above all these Golden Rules, I will continue to let my heart be my compass.’ 

Sarah Ferguson (in liaison with Marguerite Kaye, a Mills & Boon historical author) has produced an engaging fictional account of events based on real people from the period. Margaret makes for a wonderful heroine with great drive and determination - her resilience to pursue her dreams in the face of such resistance was most admirable. Her refusal to conform, not only for her own self, but in an effort to assist and show compassion to those around her was inspirational.

‘Oh, it’s worth a great deal more than some would credit. Life can be tough around here, even for little ones.” “Then anything I can do to make life easier, I will do. But I don’t just want to dispense charity, Father Sebastian, I want to understand why charity is required in the first place.” “Finding the root cause and doing something to alleviate it is exactly why I am here.”

I loved the contrast between London and New York for a socialite of the time, and at the other extreme, the plight of the poor in both these high profile cities. Also included were trips to Ireland and Scotland - much was covered in both locale, people and pursuits. There are a range of encounters that make a lasting impression as Margaret strives to undertake her personal journey of self discovery. 

‘It's not about doing good, Louise. It's about learning what real life is like. It's about being part of something and feeling useful.’

This is a most worthy entry into historical romance and drama with both atmosphere and plot providing the reader with compassion and empathy for Margaret’s plight. I recommend reading the tale of Lady Margaret as it follows a solid and satisfying journey for a young woman of the day. 

“Embrace being different. No-one has ever said that to me before. I will try, though I don’t know how.” He kissed her cheek. “You’ll find a way. As I said, it won’t be easy. There will be tears, and times when you will ask yourself is it worth it? But take it from one who knows. Ultimately, it is.”

This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.