Dunmore vividly portrays the struggle for women's rights in Victorian England, highlighting the social and political barriers faced by those who dared to challenge the status quo. Annabelle and her fellow suffragists face opposition not only from powerful men like the Duke, but also societal expectations and even internal doubts. The novel doesn't shy away from depicting the complexities of the movement and the different approaches taken by its proponents.

The stark contrast between Annabelle's working-class background and the Duke's aristocratic privilege forms a central tension in their relationship and the story. Annabelle's intelligence and determination allow her to enter spaces usually reserved for the upper class, but her experiences constantly remind her of the societal inequalities she seeks to dismantle. The Duke, bound by duty and tradition, is forced to confront his own prejudices and the limitations of his privileged world.

Despite their differences and opposing beliefs, Annabelle and the Duke find themselves undeniably attracted to one another. Their relationship, however, is far from a straightforward romance. It is a passionate clash of wills and principles, forcing them to confront their own biases and make compromises. Through their interactions, Dunmore explores the transformative power of love and the importance of finding common ground in the face of conflicting ideologies.