Ellénore, Volume II picks up where the first book left off, but the ground beneath our heroine's feet is far from solid. She's trying to leave her complicated history behind and make a fresh start in a new social circle.

The Story

Ellénore is now trying to build a respectable life, but her past isn't ready to be forgotten. Old acquaintances reappear, threatening to expose secrets she'd rather keep buried. Meanwhile, the rules of high society are a minefield—every conversation, every glance, every small decision carries weight. The central question becomes: Can Ellénore secure her future and find happiness, or will the judgments of others and the shadows of yesterday dictate her fate? Gay moves the story forward with a keen eye for the unspoken tensions in drawing rooms and the quiet desperation behind polite smiles.

Why You Should Read It

What grabbed me was how modern Ellénore's dilemma feels. Sure, the carriages and corsets are different, but the fear of being ‘found out,’ the pressure to conform, and the fight for a second chance? That’s timeless. Sophie Gay doesn't paint her as a perfect victim or a flawless heroine. Ellénore makes mistakes, she calculates, she hopes—she feels real. The author’s wit slices through the pretense of high society, making you cheer for Ellénore even as you worry for her.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves historical fiction with a strong, relatable character at its heart. If you enjoyed the social maneuvering in Jane Austen or the emotional depth of Frances Burney, you'll find a friend in Sophie Gay. This volume is a compelling, page-turning look at the cost of reputation and the courage it takes to define your own life.