After loving Stacey Halls debut novel, The Familiars, I knew I had to read her next book The Foundling and it didn't disappoint.
It's a heartbreaking story of poverty, motherhood, grief and women. I managed to read the whole story in two days as the writing just flowed so effortlessly. I definitely recommend if you enjoyed Halls' first book or if you're a fan of the modern interpretation of Historical Fiction a la The Mermaid & Mrs Hancock, The Familiars, The Doll Factory.
The devastating decision that Bess Bright, the main character, has to make ultimately changes the course of her future and is one that was a frequent occurrence in 18th century London. The inclusion of the Foundling Hospital and the tokens that would be left in order to identify the children - the majority were never claimed - and the abject poverty of Ludgate Hill is a stark contrast to the luxury that Alexandra inhabits in Bloomsbury.
It's a heartbreaking story of poverty, motherhood, grief and women. I managed to read the whole story in two days as the writing just flowed so effortlessly. I definitely recommend if you enjoyed Halls' first book or if you're a fan of the modern interpretation of Historical Fiction a la The Mermaid & Mrs Hancock, The Familiars, The Doll Factory.
The devastating decision that Bess Bright, the main character, has to make ultimately changes the course of her future and is one that was a frequent occurrence in 18th century London. The inclusion of the Foundling Hospital and the tokens that would be left in order to identify the children - the majority were never claimed - and the abject poverty of Ludgate Hill is a stark contrast to the luxury that Alexandra inhabits in Bloomsbury.