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Book Review of Isabelle and Alexander by Rebecca Anderson

Most love stories begin with the dating or courting process. Some even begin before that with the first looks or the crush. This book does not begin that way. This book begins on the wedding day. I love the uniqueness of it. However, I am so glad that I didn’t live during that time period to necessitate a beginning of my relationship on my wedding day. Yes, this was an arranged marriage, and they had only met a couple of times. I realize other women around the world may still be marrying this way, and I am grateful that my story began a different way. May I introduce Isabelle and Alexander by Rebecca Anderson.

Blurb:

“Manchester, 1850

Isabelle Rackham knows she will not marry for love. Though arranged marriages have fallen out of fashion, hers has been settled for some time. Alexander Osgood is handsome, well-known, and wealthy, but he is distant and aloof, spending much of his time at his textile mill.

Moreover, Northern England is nothing like Isabelle’s home in the Lake Country, and her marriage is far from the fairy tale she expected. Conversations with Alexander are awkward, when they happen at all, and Isabelle struggles with loneliness.

Sensing his wife’s unhappiness, Alexander brings Isabelle to his country estate. During their time together, the couple begins to build a friendship, opening up to each other about the details of their lives. But when a tragic accident leaves Alexander unable to walk, their fledgling relationship is tested.

Isabelle is determined to see to her husband’s recovery, and in caring for him, she discovers within herself an untapped well of strength and courage. In learning to rely on each other, the couple has an opportunity to forge a love connection that they both have longed for but never dreamed could be.”

My Book Review:

I enjoyed this book. It’s such a sweet and tender story. There were, of course, moments of frustration and times where I didn’t like either one of the characters. Okay, I mostly got irritated with Alexander. Wow—he could be such a jerk. The characters were well written and developed, and I enjoyed getting to know each of them. I definitely related more to Isabelle, but I also can’t imagine going through what Alexander went through. It would be very difficult to endure an injury like he did.

Isabelle’s patience, hard work, and dedication to Alexander is an example for all of us to follow. Last year I read a book on marriage (Not A Partnership: Why We Keep Getting Marriage Wrong & How We Can Get It Right), and it said that marriage is not a partnership where each member gives 50% and you end up with a whole. No. In marriage, each partner gives 100%. You keep giving, and giving, and giving. There are a few other principles listed but giving is the most important. Isabelle embodies this. Yes, there were times she didn’t handle a situation correctly, but she did her best and gave her all.

Another thing I liked about this book was its attention to children on the spectrum. I know a few families that have children with autism or children that are on the spectrum, and it’s hard. The children are amazing, and each has his or her own strengths and talents. Yes, it’s difficult sometimes, and I think it is important to bring more awareness to these amazing children and their families.

I also liked how Isabelle is portrayed as a strong character. She has her moments, but for the most part, she takes matters into her own hands and makes things happen. I like how it shows that you can be kind, loving, caring, sensitive, giving, and still strong. When Alexander is injured, it also shows that it’s ok for men to need help, to be humble, and to rely on others. I think that it also shows the consequences of victim mentality, and how getting out of victim mentality helps you to improve your life.

This book is well written, and I liked the writing style. It’s written in first person from Isabelle’s point of view. I also love the cover art. Yes, I know you’re not supposed to judge a book by it’s cover, but I do. Isabelle and Alexander is a story about overcoming challenges, fighting for what you want, and giving 100%. I enjoyed it!