Secrets Never To Be Told: The true story of a windfall inheritance and a very personal investigation

Secrets Never to be Told is a compelling story that unravels a century and a half of family secrets, revealing how being born illegitimate shaped the lives of two women, including the author. It follows the author's five-year quest to uncover her cousin's story of emigrating to Canada as a domestic servant and her own childhood of social isolation in a Midlands city.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 11 November 2021
Publisher: The Conrad Press

Secrets Never to be Told is an extraordinary tale, masterfully narrated, that unveils a century and a half of family secrets. It delves into the profound impact of being born illegitimate on the lives of two women, one of whom is the author herself. The story begins with a letter revealing a mysterious inheritance, setting the author on a five-year journey that takes her from the picturesque streets of Victorian Cambridge to the vibrant city of modern Vancouver. Along the way, she uncovers the fascinating story of her cousin Jessie, who emigrated to Canada as one of thousands of female domestic servants, known as "surplus women," before the outbreak of the First World War.

In parallel to the contemporary detective investigation on the trail of Jessie's untold story, the author also shares her own peculiar 1960s childhood. She describes a world of social isolation, where she was captivated by the television and the music of the Beatles. These personal narratives intertwine to create a rich and intricate tapestry, shedding light on the complexities of family history, identity, and the enduring power of secrets.

Through her meticulous research and captivating storytelling, the author weaves together a narrative that is both poignant and compelling. Secrets Never to be Told offers a unique perspective on the lives of women in the past and present, challenging societal norms and revealing the hidden stories that shape our understanding of history. This extraordinary book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to delve deeper into the complexities of human relationships and the hidden treasures that lie within our families.

Weight: 296g
Dimension: 129 x 199 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914913204