Finishing A Countess Below Stairs

Although at times this book seemed to drag on a bit, it picked up so nicely at the end that it really made up for the relatively slow parts. In other words, in relation to the book as a whole, the ending was definitely the best part. That's all I'll say though. If I go into any details, I'll likely give away the ending. I also believe that one of the reasons I enjoyed it as much I did is because of the way it intertwined an element of romance in with the the historical fiction. Continuing with the idea of romance--specifically forbidden love--I think that the message of A Countess Below Stairs it to follow your heart. I don't want to give the book away, but people get themselves entangled in nearly irreversible webs because they're following other people's expectations. For example, Anna, a Russian countess, flees Russia after the Bolshevik Revolution and starts to work at a mansion of the Westerholme family in England to help support her family. Inevitably, she falls in love with the young Earl of Westerholme, Rupert, but can't do anything about that because every one around her believes she is merely a maid. Likewise, Rupert is caught up in being engaged to a rich woman he doesn't really love because people expect upper class citizens to intermarry.

A Good Historical Fiction Read...