Power and Petticoats

Belgium 1831

The ink is barely dry on Belgium’s declaration of independence, but a kingdom cannot survive on proclamations and politics alone. Not when there are fortunes to secure, reputations to revive, and hearts to win or wound

In the lush hills of Wallonia, the illustrious Château Boirs prepares for a most exclusive gathering. The sharp eyed and impeccably dressed Duchess de Béaumont has extended her invitations with care. Aristocrats clinging to old titles, merchants brandishing new wealth, disgraced revolutionaries with scores to settle, and eligible heirs with too many secrets and not enough time to find a match.

This summer marks more than a celebration. It is the first true social season since the conflict with the Dutch. Years of unrest, fear, and quiet mourning. Many of those arriving at Boirs have not seen each other since before the revolution. Old rivalries have had time to deepen. Forgotten friendships may be rekindled or challenged.

For Belgium’s young debutantes, it is their first glittering step into society. The weekend promises introductions, expectations, and perhaps the faint hope of romance. Though everyone knows that nothing in society ever is that simple.

Officially, it is a celebration of national unity. Unofficially? It is a ballroom masquerading as a battlefield.