"The Manoeuvring Mother Vol. 1" by Lady Charlotte Campbell Bury is a captivating novel set in the Regency era, blending fiction with social satire to explore the intricacies of society and family dynamics. Through the lens of romance and intrigue, Bury crafts a vivid portrayal of characters navigating the complexities of marriage and social climbing. Within the rich tapestry of Victorian literature, "The Manoeuvring Mother" stands out as a prime example of the comedy of manners genre, delighting readers with its sharp wit and astute observations of societal norms. As the characters embark on their journeys of social advancement, Bury deftly explores themes of ambition, manipulation, and the pursuit of status. Against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society, character development takes center stage, as individuals grapple with the pressures of societal expectations and personal desires. Through twists and turns, Bury keeps readers engaged, weaving a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. In "The Manoeuvring Mother," Lady Charlotte Campbell Bury showcases her talent for storytelling, offering readers a glimpse into the intricacies of Regency-era society while providing timeless commentary on human nature and ambition. This novel is sure to captivate fans of Victorian literature and lovers of social satire alike.
Lady Charlotte Susan Maria Bury was an English novelist well known for her diary illustrating George IV's times (1838). Lady Charlotte Susan Maria Campbell was the daughter and youngest child of Field Marshal John Campbell, 5th Duke of Argyll, and his wife, the former Elizabeth Gunning. Elizabeth was the second daughter of John Gunning, of Castle Coote, County Roscommon, and the widow of James Hamilton, 6th Duke of Hamilton. Lady Charlotte was born in Argyll House, Oxford Street, London. During her youth, she was known for her personal beauty and charisma, which made her one of the most popular people in society. She married Colonel John Campbell (eldest son of Walter Campbell of Shawfield by his first wife Eleanora Kerr) on June 14, 1796. He was a Member of Parliament for the Ayr Burghs when he died in Edinburgh on March 15, 1809. She had nine children from this marriage, but only two survived: Lady A. Lennox and Mrs. William Russell. On March 17, 1818, Lady Charlotte Campbell married the Reverend Edward John Bury (the sole son of Edward Bury of Taunton), and they had two daughters. Bury got his B.A. and M.A. from University College, Oxford, in 1811 and 1817, respectively. He became rector of Litchfield, Hampshire, in 1814 and died in Ardencaple Castle, Dumbartonshire, in May 1832, at the age of 42.
