Waiting on Wednesday: A Mad Wicked Folly

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine that spotlights upcoming releases.

A Mad Wicked Folly

by Sharon Biggs Waller

Coming January 23, 2014

Viking Juvenile

Summary:

Welcome to the world of the fabulously wealthy in London, 1909, where dresses and houses are overwhelmingly opulent, social class means everything, and women are taught to be nothing more than wives and mothers. Into this world comes seventeen-year-old Victoria Darling, who wants only to be an artist—a nearly impossible dream for a girl.
           
After Vicky poses nude for her illicit art class, she is expelled from her French finishing school. Shamed and scandalized, her parents try to marry her off to the wealthy Edmund Carrick-Humphrey. But Vicky has other things on her mind: her clandestine application to the Royal College of Art; her participation in the suffragette movement; and her growing attraction to a working-class boy who may be her muse—or may be the love of her life. As the world of debutante balls, corsets, and high society obligations closes in around her, Vicky must figure out: just how much is she willing to sacrifice to pursue her dreams?

Why I want it:

I lovelovelovelovelovelovelove Victorian/Edwardian England. I find the culture absolutely intriguing. The fashion. The architecture. The music. The dancing. The art. The society! I believe in modern feminism as much as the next self-respecting woman, but there is something fascinating about reading about a male-dominant society with a plucky heroine who won't be held down. Plus this summary reminds me just a bit of Titanic, only slightly backwards, you know? Rich girl, poor boy, but SHE is the artist this time. Get it, Vicky!

Why I think you should want it:
I suppose for the same reasons I want it. I have not read anything else by Sharon Biggs Waller so I'm afraid I can't give a personal recommendation/argument like I usually do, but I do know that early reviews have been really good. Also, Sharon's editor is the fabulous Leila Sales, which means AMWF is destined to be amazing! What do you think? Do you want to read A Mad Wicked Folly? What draws you to it?

What are YOU waiting for this week? Share those WoW links!