Norah Lofts was a prolific British author celebrated for her captivating historical fiction. Her works often delve into the lives of those who inhabited specific houses across centuries, breathing life into the past with meticulous detail. Lofts excelled at capturing the spirit of different eras and social conditions, showing particular concern for the plight of the very poor and their struggles to improve their circumstances. Her creation of the fictional town of Baildon in East Anglia serves as her own literary landscape, akin to Thomas Hardy's Wessex, and her stylistic mastery makes her a significant figure in historical fiction.
The narrative combines suspense and humor, creating a unique atmosphere that keeps readers engaged until the very end. This darker thriller not only captivates with its mystery but also enriches the British Library Women Writers series, showcasing the depth of female authorship. First published in 1945, it highlights Loft's skillful storytelling, making it a noteworthy read for fans of the genre.
Kevin Furmage was a visionary... a man whose burning obsession was to make a mark upon the world. When he heard the rumour of a new mountain route, and acquired a hand-drawn map, to the fertile land of California, he became determined to be the first man to lead a group of pioneers along the trail. In the wagon train was a strange and ill-assorted group of people. Madame Jurer with her painted wagon full of girls; Dave Glenny, self-willed, brutal and terrorising his wife and child; Ben and Mahitabel Smith, honest and God-fearing, with a pretty eighteen-year-old daughter who was expected to behave like a woman and think like a child. These were the people faced not only with appalling hardship but also with the problem of living with one another on an untried route with the ferocious cold of a Rocky Mountain winter to endure.
The narrative follows the Tresize family as they confront a devastating curse that plagues their lineage across three generations. Each family member faces unique challenges and tragedies, highlighting their resilience and the impact of inherited misfortune. The story delves into themes of fate, family bonds, and the struggle to break free from a dark legacy.
Set in the early 20th century, the story unfolds in a mysterious country house with a rich history. The protagonist, drawn to the enigmatic Gad's Hall, uncovers secrets that intertwine the past with the present. As they explore the house's dark corners, themes of family legacy, hidden truths, and the supernatural emerge. The narrative combines elements of suspense and intrigue, inviting readers to ponder the impact of history on personal identity and relationships.
The discovery of four-year-old John Vincent's body in a midden shatters the fragile stability of a small community. As grief and suspicion ripple through the town, the investigation uncovers dark secrets and strained relationships among the residents. The narrative delves into themes of loss, the impact of tragedy on families, and the quest for justice, revealing how one tragic event can alter the lives of many. The interplay of personal and communal grief drives the story, highlighting the complexities of human emotions in the face of horror.
A knight-errant focused solely on his next tournament, Sir Godfrey Tallboys navigates the challenges of chivalry and competition. As he strives for glory, his journey reveals deeper themes of honor, duty, and the complexities of knighthood. Set against a backdrop of medieval tournaments, the story explores not only the excitement of battle but also the personal growth and moral dilemmas that come with a life dedicated to the ideals of knighthood.
The story follows Henry Tallboys, the eldest son of Sir Godfrey and Lady Sybilla, who struggles to make a living on Knight's Acre. His unwavering stubbornness and deep sense of honesty compel him to sacrifice his own financial needs to save money for a brother he believes is missing and presumed dead. This poignant tale explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the complexities of family ties against the backdrop of rural life.
Set against a backdrop of adventure and intrigue, the story follows Sir Godfrey Tallboys, a man of noble birth who embarks on a journey that tests his courage and integrity. As he navigates the complexities of love, betrayal, and ambition, Tallboys encounters a cast of vivid characters that challenge his ideals and shape his destiny. Themes of honor, loyalty, and the pursuit of true purpose are woven throughout, making for a compelling narrative that explores the essence of manhood in a tumultuous world.
The story revolves around the contrasting lives of two sisters, Myrtle and Harriet, daughters of Will Oakley, the landlord of The Fleece. Myrtle is full of life and dreams, while Harriet, marked by her pockmarked face, struggles with societal rejection that has hardened her heart. Despite her challenges, Harriet possesses immense courage, which she must summon during the pivotal autumn feast of Michael and All Angels in 1817, when an unexpected group arrives, altering the course of their lives forever.
Set at a bustling crossroads leading to London, Norwich, and the sea, the Fleece Inn thrives as a hub of commerce and social interaction. This lively setting serves as a backdrop for the intertwining lives of its patrons, revealing their stories and struggles. The inn becomes a microcosm of the larger world, reflecting the changing dynamics of society and the impact of travel and trade on personal relationships. Through rich character development and vivid descriptions, the narrative explores themes of community, ambition, and the passage of time.