A beautiful, moving and fascinating historical read
In November 1747, the same day as giving birth, Bess hands over the care of her illegitimate daughter Clara to The Foundling Hospital in London. 6 years later when Bess returns to reclaim her daughter her hopes and dreams for the life the two of them can lead together are torn apart when she learns that Clara has already been reclaimed – by her! Bess’ life is thrown into turmoil as she tries to find just who has posed as her to take her daughter and most importantly why?
I adore Stacey’s Halls’ writing style as her descriptions are so beautifully detailed and vivid, meaning that I felt like I was there breathing in this period of history. The characters are so rich and really come to life. I enjoyed learning about London in the 18th Century and the overlapping lives of people from different social standings and backgrounds and how they are viewed by their local community. There are so many different overarching themes throughout this story, the most powerful of which being love and loss and the impact this has on the main characters.
I liked how certain parts of the story were told from Bess’ perspective and also from a lady named Alexandra who employs a nursemaid for her young daughter. Seeing the story play out through these two characters’ perspectives was compelling and clever in equal measure. I really enjoyed seeing Bess’ quest to be reunited with her daughter and the ending of the book bought a smile to my face and warmth to my heart.
This book is truly beautiful both inside and out, and I am excited to see what Stacey Halls writes next!
I adore Stacey’s Halls’ writing style as her descriptions are so beautifully detailed and vivid, meaning that I felt like I was there breathing in this period of history. The characters are so rich and really come to life. I enjoyed learning about London in the 18th Century and the overlapping lives of people from different social standings and backgrounds and how they are viewed by their local community. There are so many different overarching themes throughout this story, the most powerful of which being love and loss and the impact this has on the main characters.
I liked how certain parts of the story were told from Bess’ perspective and also from a lady named Alexandra who employs a nursemaid for her young daughter. Seeing the story play out through these two characters’ perspectives was compelling and clever in equal measure. I really enjoyed seeing Bess’ quest to be reunited with her daughter and the ending of the book bought a smile to my face and warmth to my heart.
This book is truly beautiful both inside and out, and I am excited to see what Stacey Halls writes next!