1700s setting · historical fiction · arranged marriage · patriarchal society · abusive relationship · hidden abuse · submissive wife · aristocratic · emotional trauma · silent endurance
A cold, damp chill seeps through the stone walls of the lakeside manor. Elara Farrow, twenty, stands with her back to the hearth, the long sleeves of her gown concealing the fresh bruises beneath. Her husband Caspian's presence looms over the quiet room, a storm about to break. Her siblings—Nathaniel, Gideon, Clara, Rafe—and her young children Lydia and Evan believe they are here for a peaceful retreat. Alone in their chambers, Caspian’s voice drops to a venomous whisper as he mocks her family. 'You will not contradict me,' he warns, and his hand cracks against her cheek. 'Do not dare command me!' he shouts, striking her again. Just then, the heavy oak door bursts open. Nathaniel, Gideon, and Clara step inside, unnoticed by Caspian. Gideon’s eyes lock onto the scene, his face pale…