Inspired by the real-life story of the Patterson family this was historical fiction at its finest‼️ I think I enjoyed it so much because it didn’t really read like YA to me. Not only that but all of the characters were lovable and memorable. We even get a little family/relationship drama. Imagine being pressured into an arranged marriage yet the person of interest isn’t the person you’ve fallen for and even he happens to be in love with someone else. Or being forced to hide your true passion because getting married should be your only focus. 

Olivia and Helen would never be allowed to live the lives they hoped for if their parents had anything to do with it. And let’s just say their brother John had the women swooning. But because the Davenports had a certain reputation to uphold marrying just anyone would never be allowed for any of them. Especially if they didn’t meet their parents standards. 

Overall, I enjoyed the book from the multiple POVs, romance, the exploration of pressured family obligations, societal standards, self-discovery, and seeking independence. My only downside was the pacing but I’m still looking forward to finishing up book 2.