It’s 1893 and Lucy’s marriage has fallen apart. During this period, women in society remained married to their philandering husbands. But Lucy, who has a young daughter, makes the bold move to get a divorce. And even more shocking, she decides to enter a trade and become a dress designer. Her beautiful and colorful dresses are soon coveted by the most important women in London and eventually the United States. Based on the true story of Belle Epoque icon Lucy, Lady Duff Gordon, A Dress of Violet Taffeta tells the story of a woman’s strength and determination to succeed when it seemed virtually impossible.
Author Tessa Arlen has created a sumptuous, engaging story that will sweep you back into this period. Her well-researched novel gives an interesting behind-the-scenes peak at the lives of London’s elite, including its royalty. I had never heard of Lady Duff Gordon, so it was especially nice to learn about a woman who was able to beat the odds. Especially since she was one of the survivors of the Titanic disaster in 1912.
Many thanks to Berkley Books for the opportunity to read this lovely book in advance of its publication.
Rated 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Historical Fiction.
Publication Date: July 5, 2022.
Please "like" this post if A Dress of Violet Taffeta sounds like a book you might like to read. I'd love to know. Scroll below the photo and click on the red outlined heart on the lower right-hand side of the page. Comments can also be left below.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Michele. Lucy was such a trailblazer for fashion and women entrepreneurs. Arlen did a fabulous job describing the era and fashions, and in developing the characters. I am looking forward to her next book.
Another excellent review.
This sounds great.