What is the author's style in The Thistle and the Rose by Jean Plaidy?

The story is written in a straight-forward style. The overall tone of the story seems intended to be hopeful but all aspects of the story are hidden, at least to some degree, beneath a very hopeless feel. Margaret continues to search for something that is not - and never can be - hers. She is never fully satisfied and always seems to wish for a life other than what she has. This can be depressing and some readers may find that they are impatient with Margaret and her situation.