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ms_gouldbourne's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
It's my second time reading The Secret Countess, having enjoyed it many years ago as a teenager. It's always interesting to reread old favourites as an adult! On the whole I'd say that the story of Russian aristocrat Anna, forced into service in England after narrowly escaping her home country with her family, is an enjoyable and often humorous romp. Yes, the story is fairly predictable, but it's also a children's book, so that didn't bother me.
A few elements were irritating, however - mostly the character of the uncle. He's an invalid who gets his kicks by groping the maids (not Anna, of course, who he quickly recognises as an intellectual equal and therefore leaves alone) and withdraws sadly into himself when prevented from doing so by the wicked and interfering Muriel. The maids respond indignantly, because of course none of them mind being groped! They know it's just part of his harmless, kindly charm! Obviously I didn't love the concept of sexual assault played for laughs and presented as benign in a children's book, and I'm surprised that more reviews haven't commented on this element of the book.
Anna's character is just a little too perfect, but again I think that's fair enough in such a lighthearted story. I thought the topics of Antisemitism and eugenics were handled well without exploring them in depth, although I would have liked to see the villains get a little more comeuppance than they ultimately did! Overall, however, this was a gentle and enjoyable story, and I very much enjoyed revisiting it.
A few elements were irritating, however - mostly the character of the uncle.
Anna's character is just a little too perfect, but again I think that's fair enough in such a lighthearted story. I thought the topics of Antisemitism and eugenics were handled well without exploring them in depth, although I would have liked to see the villains get a little more comeuppance than they ultimately did! Overall, however, this was a gentle and enjoyable story, and I very much enjoyed revisiting it.
Content Warnings
Moderate: War and Antisemitism
Minor: Sexual harassment
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