Book Review: The Pursuit of Lady Banning // by Olivia Newport

Book Name // The Pursuit of Lady Banning
Author // Olivia Newport
Published // 2012 Revell

photo courtesy of goodreads.com

Review //

The Pursuit of Lady Banning is the first in Olivia Newport's Avenue of Dreams series. The third book in this series is being released this month. Read more about it here.

Lucy Banning is a member of the prestigious Banning family. Her life on Prairie Avenue is filled with luxury, beaded gowns, elite social circles, and...living up to the expectations of her family. Her upcoming marriage to a successful banker was arranged by her parents when she was just a child and her family has brought her up to be an excellent wife. She should have no need for anything else!

But Lucy's heart longs for something more and even she has her secrets. How long will she have to wait before she can tell Daniel about her plans? What will happen when her family discovers that she has not been spending as much time at the orphanage as they think...and when they find out the reason she really goes into town two extra times a week is to attend a course at the new University? Her family does not understand her commitment to the children at the orphanage and Lucy regrets that even Daniel does not approve of her volunteer work.What will she do when things start going missing in the house and she discovers the new kitchen maid's secret? Then there's Leo's friend, Will - a pleasant young architect who is new to the area and seems to be able to bring out the best in Lucy. Can she trust him with her secrets? When Daniel's behavior leans more toward dangerous than dashing, will they be able to help him or will his bitterness lead to his demise?

I have always loved stories set in this time period. They leave me wishing, for a few moments, that I had lived in that era. The elegant clothing, adherence to etiquette, and the fine poise and grace women put on full display sometimes sounds so appealing and otherworldly. This story was no exception. Olivia chose such a beautiful setting for her story and I found that I could fully picture the Banning home, the neighborhood, the University, and the orphanage in my mind...even their food sounded delicious! The author brings her characters to life and I can't help but like them. The use of American history is cleverly woven throughout the book and it's easy to imagine the excitement of the significant events of that decade. Aunt Violet is a loveable character and I admire her gumption and support for Lucy's ambition. I only wish I could have seen more of the interaction between Will and Lucy, but since this is only the first book in the Avenue of Dreams series, I'm sure this isn't the last I'll be seeing them. I'm looking forward to reading more of Charlotte's story in Book # 2 and, of course, to meeting Sarah in the 3rd book.

Overall, I recommend this book. It's a charming, easy, and enjoyable read.

Get your copy of The Pursuit of Lady Banning today.