The Imprudence of Prue

"The Imprudence of Prue" by Sophie Fisher is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. It follows the adventurous life of Lady Prudence Brooke, a spirited and headstrong young widow navigating the challenges of society, love, and personal debts amid the backdrop of early 18th-century England. The story begins with a dramatic encounter with a highwayman, setting the stage for Prue's escapades and romantic entanglements. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Lady Prudence and her cousin Margaret as they travel back to London after an eventful stay in Yorkshire. Their journey is interrupted by a dashing highwayman named Robin Freemantle, who demands a kiss from Prue instead of money. This audacious interaction lays the groundwork for a series of romantic and financial dilemmas, ultimately leading Prue to contemplate an unconventional solution to her financial woes—marriage to the highwayman shortly before his execution. The opening chapters set a tone of humor, adventure, and a keen exploration of societal norms, drawing readers into Prue's world of wit and whimsy.