A Desperate Fortune Book Summary - A Desperate Fortune Book explained in key points

A Desperate Fortune summary

Name: A Desperate Fortune
Author: Susanna Kearsley

Brief summary

A Desperate Fortune by Susanna Kearsley is a captivating historical novel that weaves together the stories of two women, centuries apart, as they navigate love, danger, and intrigue. It's a tale of codebreaking, secrets, and the enduring power of hope.

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A Desperate Fortune
Summary of key ideas

The Enigmatic Journal

In A Desperate Fortune by Susanna Kearsley, we are introduced to Sara Thomas, a young woman with a unique talent for cracking codes. Sara is hired by an eccentric historian to decipher a mysterious journal written in the 18th century, believed to be the key to a hidden treasure. The journal, written by a Jacobite exile named Mary Dundas, is filled with encrypted messages and Sara's task is to unravel its secrets.

As she delves into the journal, Sara is transported back in time to the 18th century, assuming the role of Mary Dundas herself. Mary, a young woman with a gift for drawing, is sent by her family to the court of exiled Jacobite King James in France. Her artistic talents are used to create secret messages for the exiled King, and she soon finds herself embroiled in the dangerous world of political intrigue and espionage.

A World of Intrigue

As Sara continues to decipher the journal, she uncovers Mary's involvement in a complex web of Jacobite conspiracies and her growing affection for a mysterious man named Hugh MacPherson. Mary's journey takes her from the opulent palace of King James to the harsh, war-torn Scottish Highlands, where she becomes entangled in a plot to restore the exiled King to his throne.

Meanwhile, in the present day, Sara forms a deep bond with her neighbor, Luc, who helps her navigate the unfamiliar streets of Paris. As they work together, Sara begins to see parallels between her own life and Mary's, and she discovers that their fates may be more intertwined than she initially thought.

The Complexities of Love and Loyalty

Back in the 18th century, Mary's growing affection for Hugh MacPherson complicates her loyalty to the exiled King. Hugh, a Jacobite supporter, is torn between his love for Mary and his duty to the cause. The couple's relationship is further tested when Mary is forced to choose between her loyalty to the exiled King and her desire for a peaceful life with Hugh.

As the story unfolds, Sara becomes increasingly invested in Mary's life, and she finds herself falling for her enigmatic neighbor, Luc. However, just like Mary, Sara's growing affection for Luc is overshadowed by the secrets he keeps, and she is left questioning his true intentions.

Unraveling the Mysteries

In a race against time, Sara finally deciphers the last cryptic message in the journal and uncovers the location of the hidden Jacobite treasure. However, her joy is short-lived when she realizes the danger that comes with the discovery. Just as Mary had to make difficult choices, Sara is forced to confront her own desires and decide where her loyalties truly lie.

As the story comes to a close, Sara's journey into the past has not only unraveled the mysteries of the enigmatic journal but has also allowed her to come to terms with her own past and make peace with her future. In A Desperate Fortune, Susanna Kearsley weaves a rich tapestry of history, romance, and intrigue, drawing us into a world of secrets and sacrifices that transcend time.

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What is A Desperate Fortune about?

A Desperate Fortune by Susanna Kearsley is a captivating blend of historical fiction and mystery. Set in both 18th century and present-day France, the novel follows two women as they unravel the secrets of a coded journal. Filled with intrigue, romance, and rich historical detail, it is a compelling tale of hidden truths and the power of love.

A Desperate Fortune Review

A Desperate Fortune (2015) by Susanna Kearsley weaves a tale of mystery and romance set in the past and present. Here's why this book is worth your time:

The dual timeline narrative keeps readers engaged as they uncover secrets from the 18th century and the modern day, creating suspense and intrigue.
Its rich historical details transport readers to different eras, offering a vivid and immersive reading experience that educates as well as entertains.
The compelling characters face challenges that resonate with readers, adding depth and emotional connection to the story, ensuring it remains far from dull.

Who should read A Desperate Fortune?

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with a touch of romance
People interested in codebreaking and cryptography
Those who appreciate a well-researched and intricately plotted story

About the Author

Susanna Kearsley is a renowned author known for her captivating historical fiction novels. With a passion for weaving together intricate plots and richly detailed settings, Kearsley has gained a dedicated following of readers. Some of her other notable works include The Winter Sea, The Firebird, and Bellewether. Through her skillful storytelling, Kearsley transports her audience to different time periods, immersing them in the lives of her compelling characters.

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