The Maidens' Lodge; or, None of Self and All of Thee (In the Reign of Queen Anne)

"The Maidens' Lodge; or, None of Self and All of Thee" by Emily Sarah Holt weaves a tale in 1712 England, during Queen Anne's rule. It explores a refined family's complex web of relationships and societal expectations as seen through the experiences of two young women, Rhoda and Phoebe. Rhoda, raised in the sheltered world of Cressingham Abbey, longs for connection, while the poverty-stricken Phoebe brings modesty to the household. Their contrasting lives and personalities set the stage for an evolving relationship against a backdrop of family secrets and rigid societal norms. The novel paints a picture of their journey as they navigate familial ambitions and the weight of their past.