Marguerite Duportal's De la volonté (On Will) is a novel that pulls you into the quiet, constrained world of provincial France at the turn of the 20th century. It follows Élise, a woman caught between duty and desire.

The Story

Élise lives a life of routine and expectation. Her days are filled with family obligations and social niceties, but inside, she feels a growing restlessness. The plot isn't driven by dramatic events, but by Élise's internal struggle. We watch as small moments—a conversation, a remembered dream, a glimpse of a different path—chip away at her acceptance of the life laid out for her. The central question is whether she can gather the courage, the 'will' of the title, to imagine something more for herself.

Why You Should Read It

What struck me most was how Duportal makes Élise's quiet crisis feel so urgent. You're right there with her, feeling the weight of every glance and unspoken rule. The writing is precise and observant, turning everyday scenes into moments of high tension. It’s less about rebelling against society in a loud way, and more about the exhausting, private work of figuring out what you want when no one is asking.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for readers who love character-driven stories and historical fiction that focuses on the interior lives of women. If you enjoyed the thoughtful pace of authors like Willa Cather or the psychological insight of early 20th-century writers, Duportal’s work is a fascinating discovery. It’s a slow, thoughtful read that leaves you thinking about your own choices long after you finish the last page.