Wednesday, July 21, 2010

"Fallen Grace" by Mary Hooper [4]



The train roared, shook and swayed as it rounded a corner, and Grace grasped the window frame and waited until it straightened on it's course. Then she pushed open the door to the van containing the coffins and went in ...
London, 1861. Grace Parkes, a pale but determined figure, clutches a precious bundle closely to her as she travels on the train to the famed Brookwood Cemetery. Grace has a heartbreaking duty to carry out.
What a truly beautiful cover this is and of course I just had to have it and in hardback too! I have previously read Mary Hooper's the 'secret magician' series and it was very much a teen read, so I was a little apprehensive about reading this one.
This has truly been a wonderful story. It's set in London in 1861 which is right in the Victorian era and this is a very interesting time in history ... lots of very unusual traditions and the poverty in England at the time was amazing. Our author has totally swept you straight into the novel and your heart breaks as you get to know Mary and her sister Lily and what their story is all about. The details and background of the novel is so well written that you are just immersed into it and it feels like you are with the two girls experiencing what they are going through. While Mary is a fragile young girl she has had to grow up very quickly and be the main stay of their lives because Lily is a little slow and not able to take on the role as big sister. Mary though is a strong girl and she is put through a series of life changing experiences that make her even stronger and more determined to make their lives better. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and I would recommend it too anyone for an insight into the Victorian era and as an historical read.
I rate this book 4 stars.

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