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
…more 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. (less)
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