Jane Digby's Diary: To Begin, Begin

 Jane Digby's Diary: To Begin, Begin, C.R. Hurst, Independently Published, 2018

 

First of a series, this book is based on the life of a real person. In the early 1800's, Jane seemed destined for the life of a high class, well bred Englishwoman. Her marriage, while still a teenager, to Lord Ellenborough, eventually fell apart. She felt abandoned, whether in London, or at their country estate, while he spent his days dealing with business, or being a Member of Parliament.

Jane had a child with her lover, but they never married. She traveled to different European cities, staying with friends, while she considered her future. Does she return to England, and attempt some "damage control" on her reputation? Does she continue to travel, not caring what other people think?

This book is in diary form, so it may not be for everyone. It is still an interesting tale of someone who broke away from the rock solid social "rules" of Regency England, to find her own way in life. It is very much worth reading.