American Duchess: A Novel of Consuelo Vanderbilt – by Karen Harper – independent book review – Historical Fiction (United States, England, France)

Historical fiction that offers a glimpse into the world of the rich and famous during America’s Gilded Age, and continuing through the first half of the 20th century. An easy, quick read that requires no heavy lifting. Awarded three stars on Goodreads.

AMERICAN DUCHESS tells the story of Consuelo Vanderbilt (1877-1964) – one of a number of rich American heiresses in the later 19th century that married impoverished British aristocrats in desperate need of funds to maintain their historic homes and lifestyles. For Consuelo, the target of her mother‘s ambition and determination was Charles Spencer-Churchill (1871-1934), 9th Duke of Marlborough and owner of the impressive Blenheim Palace. And so Consuelo, despite her personal feelings, dutifully trades cash for the title and prestige of Duchess.

She soon produces the required heir and spare, but her marriage is never a happy one. Author Karen Harper provides lots of details, including:

• Consuelo’s longstanding resentment toward her domineering mother.

• Her parents’ trouble marriage.

• Her difficult adjustment as a VERY young bride to widespread anti-American sentiments among the British upper class.

• Her mingling with British royalty.

• Her friendship with her husband’s cousin, Winston Churchill.

• The good works Consuelo becomes known for.

• Her work during World War II.

But, while there’s plenty of drama, I just never found myself emotionally involved with anyone. Even though the characters are distinctively drawn, they always seemed remote and many quite unlikeable. Perhaps their lifestyles simply seem too foreign and over-the-top to me.

I also thought the book ended a bit abruptly — in the middle of World War II, with an Epilogue dated 1943. Even though Consuelo lived another 20 years.

Overall, I ended the book feeling Consuelo certainly led an interesting life. And, after reading this novel, those who share my interest in this time period will certainly get a taste of the money, power, social life, and influence these people had. But without that interest, I’d probably not have stuck with this one.

More about author Karen Harper.