Richly detailed historical fiction set in 1920s London - London, 1921. Middle-class Julia Longfield looks forward to marrying Chester Morrison whom, her father assures her, is an excellent match. But when Mr Longfield dies suddenly, leaving them in poverty, Julia is jilted by her fianc and it falls to her to look after her family. Then she meets Simon Layzell, owner of a fabric shop, and they decide to go into business. Determined to fight for her family, Julia seizes this opportunity for a new future.
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About the Author:
Elizabeth Lord was born in the East End of London but has lived in Essex most of her life. She has a son and two daughters. Ruth Rendell describes her as a natural storyteller .
Review:
Julia, 21, is about to get engaged, although she is not positive she loves Chester. Her autocratic father is pushing for the marriage, and as a good English daughter in 1921, she acquiesces to his will. But before the engagement is announced, Julia's father dies, leaving the family penniless. Friends disappear and Chester calls off the engagement. Her mother is helpless, so Julia struggles to keep the family together. Just before her home is repossessed to pay creditors, Julia goes to her father's import-export warehouse and removes several bolts of expensive fabric. She knows she can make money with them and finds a way when she meets Simon, the proprietor of the store beneath their apartment. The two become successful business partners, but when romance blooms, Julia's mother strongly objects. Julia struggles in this new world as her past returns to haunt her and the Great Depression looms. Lord provides great insight into 1920s London with her signature gifts for detail and vivid storytelling --Booklist, 15th September 2009
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- PublisherSevern House
- Publication date2011
- ISBN 10 0727879243
- ISBN 13 9780727879240
- BindingHardcover
- Number of pages400
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Rating