The fourth Poldark novel follows Ross's business exploits and his worsening relationship with his family. The last book, "Jeremy Poldark," left off with what appeared to be a reconciliation between Ross and his cousin Francis. However, through a mining accident and further interference from the Warleggan family, the peace is short-lived.

I read this series and started watching the tv show a year ago. While through enjoying the books readers can dive deeper into the inner thoughts of the characters, the 2015 tv adaptation by PBS exquisitely depicts the landscapes of Cornwall and the polished costumes of the 1700s. The first book, which I listened to as audiobook, completely drew me in and the character of Ross Poldark made me laugh. His quick-witted, intelligent comebacks stand out in the books and are my favorite aspect of his character. The amount of development that Winston Graham has put into creating this character astounds me every time I read a new book in the series. Ross is never what I expect, and even though he makes several of the same mistakes, he always manages to do something else unexpected. The addition of the unique scar on his face that he received from serving in the Revolutionary War is my favorite detail that Graham used in the series.

Truthfully I can't stand Francis, Elizabeth, George, and the other characters of high-society. I believe that they really don't care about Ross, and that they only look after themselves. There were times when Francis was in the right, like when he looked after Elizabeth when Ross had first returned home. Ross couldn't afford to take care of the girl he was still in love with, but Francis could. Also in this book, when Ross and Elizabeth were noticeably paying close attention to each other again, Francis comforted Demelza. Elizabeth is definitely not a villain herself, but she is timid and spineless. Compared to Demelza, Elizabeth likely appears even more subservient. However, I believe that she strings Ross along even after he is married and frankly she could have treated Demelza better. George is, what can I say, a cold-hearted and merciless character. In the first book I was reluctant to despise him too readily. However, now after all he's done, such as nearly getting Ross thrown in prison, leading Francis down a shady path during his marriage to Elizabeth, and recently insulting Demelza (not once but twice), he's just a bad egg. How he acted in this book was truly manipulative, and what he says and does to Demelza was just awful.

Yes Demelza Poldark is my favorite character, Verity following right behind her. Both girls are clever, loyal, and entertaining to read about. Now that they're close friends, even more so. Verity was the friend Ross had when no one else was willing to be one. She is unselfish and deserving in the happiness she receives. Demelza, on the other hand, speaks her mind more freely, but always with good intentions. She can be spiteful, but she is one of the youngest characters in the series so that's part of it. I admire most that she is a hard worker and never complains unless there's good reason to. Ross and her share some hot-tempered pride, but unlike Ross, she never looks for a fight. I believe that she wouldn't mind living a quiet life from now on. Plus, who couldn't like Demelza after reading about how faithful she is to her dog Garrick? It reminds me of the relationship I have with my dog Lulu.

For the most part I enjoyed "Warleggan," mainly because Ross and Demelza are finally looking to be rid of their money troubles. Crossing my fingers! Yet the mistakes they both make and the way they treat each other in this book disappointed me. I was glad with how the book ended, because I could clearly see that they would stay together and be a family.