Hadn’t I thoughts, after all? A mind of my own? It cannot be infamy, I reasoned, to run or seek after glory, to love perfection, desire praise.

I enjoyed the book, not as much as I had hoped. I really loved Dutton's writing; the research work undertaken for the book also seems honest and extensive so I believe it did the Duchess justice. I don't think I've ever read a fictionalized account of a historical figure, or if I have I can't remember. This is a tricky task, to adhere to the facts to some extent while also adding new and imaginative elements. I think the book does this wonderfully. My only issue with the book was that it didn't introduce any passion or excitement in me while reading it.

Anyway, I would still recommend this. It's just missing some sort of fun element in my opinion.