3 Review(s)

The Duke's Daughter; and The Fugitives, Vol. II is a novel by Margaret Oliphant set against the backdrop of late 19th-century British society, where marriage and societal expectations weigh heavily on the characters. The story centers around the daughter of a powerful duke, who finds herself caught in a complex web of family duty, love, and personal sacrifice. The novel opens with the aftermath of a marriage that almost took place, setting the stage for tension and emotional turmoil. The young woman had been forbidden by her father to marry a man she desires, a union she is barred from due to her father's authority and societal pressures. The duke’s oppressive control forces her into a state of imprisonment, as she struggles with heartbreak and the crushing weight of familial expectations.Through the young woman’s turmoil, the novel explores the painful consequences of sacrificing love for duty and the struggle to balance personal happiness with societal approval. Oliphant's rich character development and keen social insight create a compelling exploration of Victorian class and marriage, illustrating the emotional and societal stakes at play.