In 1847 the famed Angela Burdett Courts of the banking fame is busy constructing an experimental "Safe house."
Alongside Charles Dickens
they run a house for fallen girls.
Broken homes, prison, the streets and workhouse or orphanages.
All are welcome IF they agree to try to improve themselves and make ready for a new life in the colonies in Australia.
But behind the scenes Angela is suffering, living with the mental trauma of a stalker whom has just been released from jail and is back on the streets.
Ironically amidst all this she sort of bonds with the girls in her care and their lives become inexpeiclably intertwined and the relationship deepens to friendship if not a sort of extended family.
One day things come to a head with a dramatic finale.
This was wonderful, I have read Halls before and adore her work and this latest novel is just as good.
She is always a great read.
Alongside Charles Dickens
they run a house for fallen girls.
Broken homes, prison, the streets and workhouse or orphanages.
All are welcome IF they agree to try to improve themselves and make ready for a new life in the colonies in Australia.
But behind the scenes Angela is suffering, living with the mental trauma of a stalker whom has just been released from jail and is back on the streets.
Ironically amidst all this she sort of bonds with the girls in her care and their lives become inexpeiclably intertwined and the relationship deepens to friendship if not a sort of extended family.
One day things come to a head with a dramatic finale.
This was wonderful, I have read Halls before and adore her work and this latest novel is just as good.
She is always a great read.