Courting: An Intimate History of Love and the Law – Alecia Simmonds (2023)

Author: Alecia Simmonds
Publisher: NewSouth Publishing, Sydney, 2023
Format: Softcover
Pages: 440
ISBN: 9781743823378
Condition: Near Fine – minimal wear to covers, clean and tight copy
Type of Book: Australian History / Legal & Social Studies

Summary:
Courting explores the emotional and social history of love through the lens of the law in Australia. Historian Alecia Simmonds examines the records of breach of promise cases—where women sued men for broken engagements—revealing the intersections of romance, gender, and justice from the 19th century through the 20th. Through these stories, she uncovers how emotions such as love, shame, and heartbreak became matters of legal consequence, offering a deeply human perspective on both affection and accountability.

Why you’ll love this book:
A fascinating blend of history, law, and storytelling, Courting is perfect for readers interested in women’s history, gender studies, and the social evolution of love and relationships in Australia.