Headline Review
Headline Review
Headline Review
The new novel from Adele Parks, set during the outbreak of the First World War
1914. Vivian, a young, impassioned debutante is hurried into a pedestrian marriage to cover a scandal. War breaks out on her wedding day - domestically and across Europe. Quick to escape the disappointment of matrimony, her traditionalist husband immediately enlists and Vivian has no alternative than to take up the management and running of his estate - after all, everyone is required to do their bit. Even pretty, inadequately-educated young wives.
Howard, a brilliant young playwright rushes to the front to see for himself the best and the worst of humanity; he cannot imagine what the horror might be. In March 1916, when conscription becomes law, it is no longer enough for him to report on the War, it's a legal requirement that he joins the ranks. Howard refuses, becoming one of the most notorious conscientious objectors of the time. Disarmingly handsome, famous, articulate and informed, he's a threat to the government. Narrowly escaping a death sentence by agreeing to take essential work on Vivian's farm, it's only then Howard understands what is worth fighting for.
Sweet, sharp and simply unforgettable
A beautifully written, thoughtful exploration of love and loss... This is Parks at the top of her consistently excellent game and is one of those rare books you won't stop thinking about until long after you turn the final page - Daily Mail
Dramatic and swooningly romantic, this is historical fiction with real heart - Marie Claire
A wonderful exploration of love
Parks is brilliant on friendship, relationships and family, plus this time round we're treated to deftly observed period detail... utterly compelling - Glamour
Well observed, original and wonderfully crafted - Sun
Beautifully observed and researched, this builds into a terrific drama of the conflict between individual passions and the demands of war
Adele Parks was born in Teesside, North East England. She read English Language and Literature at Leicester University. Since graduating she has lived in Italy and Africa but has spent most of her adult life in London. She lives in Guildford with her husband and son. Her earlier novels, Playing Away, Game Over, Larger Than Life, The Other Woman's Shoes and Still Thinking of You were all best sellers and are published in over twenty countries.