To Leeward

"To Leeward" by F. Marion Crawford is a story set in 19th-century Rome that follows Marcantonio Carantoni, a nobleman, and his sister, Donna Diana, as they grapple with love and what society expects of them. The novel examines Rome's complex social life and the clash between old traditions and new ideas when Marcantonio falls for Leonora Carnethy, a young Englishwoman whose modern beliefs challenge his family's values. The book begins by showing the different ways of life and social classes in Rome through Marcantonio and his sister. Marcantonio wants to marry Leonora, but Diana worries about her character and beliefs. Their talks reveal the mix of family love and social pressure, with different views on love and marriage. As Marcantonio's feelings deepen, the story suggests that his noble background and Leonora's unusual views could cause problems.