Gilding the Lily: A captivating saga of love, sisters and tragedy

Gilding the Lily is a heart-wrenching tale of two sisters searching for a place to belong, set against the backdrop of the Titanic. It is a perfect book for fans of Kitty Neale and Josephine Cox.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2023
Publisher: Headline Publishing Group

Gilding the Lily is a poignant tale of two sisters, Lily and Sarah Brown, and their search for a sense of belonging. Set against the backdrop of 1912, the novel explores the complexities of human relationships and the resilience of the human spirit.

Lily and Sarah's childhood is marked by unhappiness and abuse. Sarah finds solace in marrying Ralph Turner, a dock worker from Sunderland, but Lily remains distrustful of him. Ralph's dark and volatile nature is revealed when he attempts to seduce Lily on their wedding day, confirming her worst fears.

In contrast, Ralph's younger brother, John, is a kind and gentle soul. Lily finds herself increasingly drawn to him, but their relationship is complicated by social and familial pressures.

When Lily accompanies the family she works for as a nursemaid to New York, she never imagines that her decision will alter the course of her life forever. As she boards the RMS Titanic, little does she know that this journey will be filled with heartache, tragedy, and unexpected romance.

Gilding the Lily is a beautifully written novel that delves into the complexities of human emotions and the power of love and resilience. Rita Bradshaw's storytelling is masterful, and her characters are fully realized and relatable. The novel offers a glimpse into a bygone era, providing a rich and immersive experience for readers.

Throughout the novel, Bradshaw explores themes of loss, grief, and the search for a place to call home. Lily's journey from a troubled and abused childhood to a woman who finds strength and purpose is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. Her relationships with Ralph, John, and other characters are nuanced and complex, reflecting the social and cultural norms of the time.

The writing style of Gilding the Lily is elegant and evocative, transporting readers back to a bygone era. Bradshaw's descriptive prose brings the characters and settings to life, allowing readers to feel a deep connection to the story. The novel's pacing is well-balanced, with moments of tension and suspense interspersed with moments of heartwarming romance and hope.

One of the standout aspects of Gilding the Lily is its portrayal of the Titanic disaster. Bradshaw weaves the historical events of the Titanic into the narrative seamlessly, providing a realistic and emotional account of the tragedy. The characters' reactions to the unfolding events are genuine and relatable, adding depth and dimension to their characters.

Gilding the Lily is a novel that will touch the hearts of readers who appreciate well-crafted storytelling and historical fiction. It is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction or simply looking for a touching and inspiring story, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.

In conclusion, Gilding the Lily is a must-read novel that explores the complexities of human relationships and the resilience of the human spirit. Rita Bradshaw's storytelling is masterful, and her characters are fully realized and relatable. The novel offers a glimpse into a bygone era, providing a rich and immersive experience for readers. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction or simply looking for a touching and inspiring story, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Weight: 250g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781035403134