Another riveting read from one of my favourite authors.
Set in Victorian England in the Palace itself and then moving on to Nice this relates the story of Isabella a girl of good family, thrust by an uncaring father into service - a drudgery of the worst kind and one she is definitely not suited for. Isabella is adaptable, quick thinking and it is this that lands her the job at the palace as an undercook. It is also the reason why she can get blackmailed, having taken on the name of someone else.
The story interspersed with tales of the Royal Family - gossip and innuendo aside the doings of Victoria and her son Prince Albert were numerous and how she kept her hand on the tiller till the end is amazing.
The best part of the book for me however was the food. Victoria had an enormous appetite for good food and so did the royal party who travelled with her and the descriptions of the food is mouth watering.
The side story of Isabella alias Helen and her romances are also piquant and add a touch of interest to a historical fiction tale.
The book was sent to me by Netgalley for an unbiased review, courtesy of Lake Union Publishing.
My mother loves Bowen's books.
ReplyDeleteI've enjoyed some of her books and this one sounds good especially as you say for food lovers.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds great! Adding to list.
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to reading this. Bowen lives here in the Valley during the winter.
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