05/01/2020
DEBUT Nora dreams of becoming an entomologist and publishing the journal originally owned by her father once she graduates from Cornell University in 1885. However, her stepfather, who believes that the only suitable roles for a woman are wife and mother, is in financial trouble and is pressuring her to marry a man she does not love in order to pay his debts. After her stepfather burns her insect collection, she decides to spend the summer in India with a research team in the hope that she can win a scholarship to Cornell's master's program. Her chief competitor, Owen, is also on the team. When she rescues an Indian girl from a life of prostitution, she finds herself in conflict with societal and cultural norms. Simultaneously she finds her career and scholarship chances in jeopardy. VERDICT Duffy is an author to watch. She presents a unique look at society's expectations for women in two different cultures in the late 19th century. Only by losing all she has held dear can Nora gain a love and passion she cannot live without. This historical romance is recommended for readers of Tracie Peterson and Jody Hedlund.—Margaret Bentley, Shiawassee Dist. Lib., Owosso, MI
