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There are currently 20 member reviews
for Strong Passions
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Marilyn J. (Salem, OR)
A 19th Century Setting, Yet Contemporary Feel
Barbara Weisberg has given the world another fine book. Even in light of the unfolding of this true tale of a tempestuous union, with all its details, she manages to keep us engaged through all the passions and the circumstances that both bind and divide a marriage and a family. The story may be centered within privileged New York society in the 1860's, yet STRONG PASSIONS comes along when marriage, sexuality, and gender seem front and center, even in these times, both legally and within the court of public opinion.
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Erica L
Non fiction is not always boring
This non fiction account of a scandalous divorce in the 1860s reads like a novel. We learn much about societal norms, gender inequality, class and the court system of the time. Truth can be stranger than fiction and this story must have been the height of gossip in the upper middle class parlors of old New York. Well written, I would highly recommend.
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Tara T. (Carterville, IL)
Strong Passions
This book hooked me from the first page, and I couldn't read it fast enough. Sometimes non-fiction can be dry, but this book reads like a novel. Such a well-written and well-researched book on a divorce from the 1800s - when divorce was scandalous. I really enjoyed reading this one and feel as if it would appeal to a very large audience. Very good book!
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Charlene D. (Saugus, MA)
Strong Passions
This book has all of today's current issues at the forefront - adultery, abortion, child custody, and women's rights to name a few. But what is remarkable about it is that it takes place in the 19th century. The more things change, the more they stay the same. At times I found myself in a state of disbelief at what was expected from women and the power men wielded over them. The author is very successful in pulling the reader in as a "member of the jury" when reading the various testimonies at the trial. At times I was on the edge wondering if the divorce would be denied and who wasn't telling the truth. This is non-fiction reading like fiction and hard to put down. This would be an excellent book for book groups. There is so much to talk about the discussion could go on for hours. In conclusion, if you are a history buff or you like how historical fiction reads or you are fiery about women's rights, then put this book on your "Want to Read" list.
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Virginia P. (Tallahassee, FL)
Strong Passions
A fascinating and thorough recounting of the divorce trial of Peter Strong vs Mary Strong which takes the reader back to the days when society ruled old New York. Details of the life styles of these families along with the mores of the day, including abortion practices, make the book a captivating read. If you are watching "The Gilded Age" on television, this book is a great companion piece.
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Celeste
Strong Passions - A Scandalous Divorce in Old New York
A little something for everyone. If you like courtroom drama, or civil war-era history, or stories about "old" New York high society, or all of the above, then read this book! Meticulously researched, Strong Passions presents a page-turning account of the 1865 divorce proceedings between Peter and Mary Strong set against the backdrop of Victorian Era NYC. But it is not just about what happened in the courtroom. Barbara Weisberg introduces us to Mary and Peter as children growing up in highly privileged families, then guides us through their courtship and early years of marriage, to Mary's explosive admission of adultery. The book seems to be written to evoke sympathy for Mary, particularly because of the lack of rights women held at that time in terms of marriage and custody. However, I think it would have been interesting to have more reflection on what Peter, the wronged partner in the marriage, might have experienced throughout the ordeal. The book is very well written and I will be recommending it to my book club.
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Beverly D. (Palm Harbor, FL)
The "Old Days"
An excellent read. Sometimes non-fiction can be very dry; Strong Passions read like a novel , although definitely a true story. The author made the ins and outs of the early 20th century "justice" system (regarding divorce) in New York understandable. The obvious bias against women is an integral part of this story. This would be an great choice for book clubs. Discussions would be ENDLESS !
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