Okay, I'm hoping someone in this extended community may recognize this book I read years ago (early 70's) and foolishly gave away in a move (also many years ago). I would classify it as fantasy but of the alternative world (no elves, etc.) category. It was a long (500+ pages?) big paperback. As I recall, the country in question had mountainous borders to hide behind and had declined the "benefits" of electricity. I think it was set in the early 1800's. The protagonist may have gone there as a consular officer from another country (~England?). The most telling concept I can recall was something about the problem when two people each want the other to be happy and neither expresses his/her true wants -- passing/unmet desires or something like that? With any luck, if you've read this book, you'll recognize it from my very inept description. Even if you only think you might know it, please respond. Whatever clues you have might trigger something else in my memory.
Thanks, namronv-at-yahoo.com

Could it be "The Difference Engine" by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling ?

Actually, the book is Islandia by Austin Tappen Wright. I highly recommend it. Namronv

Cool indeed.