A Tea Drinker’s Novel: Chilverton Park

Taking its cues from classic British literature, Thompson’s weak novel of manners doesn’t quite hit its mark. Lady Caroline Downey suffers from an unknown ailment, and, though most of her family is supportive, she breaks her engagement because she believes she cannot have children and doesn’t wish to cause her fiancé heartbreak. Her aunt, Clara Hilliard, doesn’t believe Caroline’s complaints and seeks to turn her into a proper young lady. Sir Erskine Wald, a confirmed bachelor and old family friend, wishes to protect her from her disagreeable aunt. This isn’t easy, however, as Clara manipulates Caroline’s mother into agreeing with her schemes. With society pressuring him to get married, Erskine hatches a plan that may satisfy his and Caroline’s problems. The large cast ends up in subplots that include elopements, pregnancies, and novel writing, but, unfortunately, not enough time is spent developing the characters. The atmosphere is also sorely lacking, as the author goes light on historical details and context. Nevertheless, readers looking for a character dealing with an invisible disability in a historical setting will be attracted to Thompson’s work. (BookLife)