Set in 1879 London, “The Captain’s Daughter” gives readers a peek into late 19th-century life, a time when women’s, roles as well as societal norms were experiencing transitional birthing pains.
During this time period, individuals associated with the theater lived on the outer fringes of proper society. Although many of the individuals connected to the theater during this period clung to the rigid societal boundaries, they were still unfairly judged as living lives filled with impropriety.
The story begins with protagonist Rosalyn Bernier, leaving the orphanage where she and her two sisters grew up after their mother’s death. Quickly fast-forward six years, author Jennifer Delamere takes Rosalyn on a tumultuous journey of false accusations, close encounters of the brothel kind, loss of all her worldly goods, to eventually landing in a most unexpected place.
Rosalyn’s character is thoughtful, well-spoken, kind-hearted and resourceful if a bit naïve, overall a very likable personality. Delamere does an excellent job developing her characters, without overwhelming the book lover.
The book is full of unexpected plots twists and turns, sure to hook the reader and keep them captivated until the final pages.
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided in exchange for this review.