Marriage, Volume 1 by Susan Edmonstoune Ferrier is a delightful and engaging novel that offers a glimpse into the complexities of relationships and societal expectations in 19th century Scotland. The story follows the lives of two young women, both of whom are faced with the pressures of marriage and societal conventions.

Ferrier's writing is witty and incisive, capturing the nuances of human behavior with precision and insight. The characters are well-developed and multi-dimensional, each grappling with their own desires and ambitions in a society that often restricts their freedom.

The novel is filled with humor and irony, making it an enjoyable and entertaining read. Ferrier's keen observations on marriage and social status add depth to the story, highlighting the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society.

Overall, Marriage, Volume 1 is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that offers a compelling look at the complexities of relationships and societal expectations. I highly recommend it to fans of classic literature and those interested in exploring the dynamics of marriage and society in the 19th century.

Book Description:

“Love!–A word by superstition thought a God; by use turned to an humour; by self-will made a flattering madness.” – Alexander and Campaspe.

Lady Juliana, the indulged and coddled seventeen (”And a half, papa”) year old daughter of the Earl of Cortland, is betrothed by her father to a wealthy old Duke who can give her every luxury. She instead runs away and marries her very handsome but penniless lover. Very soon, they are forced to travel to Scotland to live with his quirky family in a rundown “castle” in the barren wilderness. Can this marriage survive?(Summary by P.Cunningham)