I found this to be a thoughtful novel about a woman who finally gets to live as she pleases following the death of her husband upsetting the plans of her pompous and calculating children.

The middle part of the book focuses on her contemplation of the past; her life always in the background as the wife of a prominent and charming politician.  I found this section to be quite sad as she reflects upon how her spirit was subsumed by the role of wife and mother for the majority of her life.  Some of the most charming scenes in the book are the conversations between her French maid of 60 years and the estate agent/owner of her retirement home as she lives out her days thumbing her nose at convention.     

Reviewed December 2009

Oh Miss Mole, you long suffering thing.   Honestly, I don’t know how you do it.   Suppressing all of that intelligence, wit and humour takes a lot of energy and I don’t blame you for the occasional outburst.   Do not judge yourself so harshly.   You are not the type of person who can suffer fools gladly.   You squirm internally while looking dutiful.   I wish you had been MY companion or housekeeper.  I would have been so grateful for your love and attention.  You are a fabulous character who deserves to be happy. (And your love of fine shoes is so endearing!) 

What a shame that your secret past is about to undo all the fine work you’ve done with this poor screwed up family.  Dare we hope for you?  How will it all end?

Reviewed May 30, 2009

I had never heard the author when I ordered this book from the library.  Its main draw was the fact that it was a Persephone reprint.  This first, short novel by Ethel Wilson is filled with wonderful descriptions of the interior of British Colombia.  This is a coming of age story of young Frankie who over the course of 7 years (during the 1930's), periodically tangles

with Hetty Dorval, a beautiful and completely self absorbed woman with a scandalous past. 

I loved the sweetness of Frankie’s relationship with her mom and dad and enjoyed reading about her parent’s unusual and deep bond with each other.  I found this novella very enjoyable, in particular the final scene between Hetty and Frankie.  I was surprised when I realized I was on the last page.  A real gem.