Description

Jane's Parlour by O. Douglas, in this charming undated edition by Thomas Nelson & Sons, beckons readers into a captivating world of interconnected lives. Within these pages, a familiar cast of beloved characters returns, creating an intricately woven tapestry of emotions and relationships.

The story reintroduces us to the Eliot family, led by Katharyn and Timothy, along with their five children, and the endearing Alison Lockhart, who shares her life with her beloved nephew George. The Jacksons, Barbara and Andrew, bring dynamic tension to the narrative, while the enigmatic Lady Jackson makes vibrant cameo appearances.

At its heart, "Jane's Parlour" unfolds a quintessential love story, yet it's the nuanced interactions and quiet but meaningful events in the lives of these characters that give this novel its depth. As virtue finds its rewards and the wayward face their consequences, the narrative subtly unfolds in a post-World War I world, poised on the cusp of another global conflict.

Published in 1937, the novel delicately alludes to the gathering storm clouds of World War II, capturing the essence of the tranquil years before darkness once again descended upon the world.

For those who have relished "The Proper Place" and "The Day of Small Things," "Jane's Parlour" is a must-read. These novels coexist harmoniously, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a richly crafted world of characters, skillfully woven by the author. If you're fortunate enough to discover the posthumously published anthology-biography-memoir "Farewell to Priorsford," you'll find the first eight chapters of a fourth book, "The Wintry Years," extending the characters' journey into World War II, a testament to the author's enduring ability to create vivid, lifelike worlds that linger beyond the pages.

Condition report

The boards are in very good condition, the text block is tight and the pages are clean. There's age related wear and marking to the dust cover (see images). There's also a 1.5cm tear to the dust cover at the top and bottom of the spine.