Another book, kindly lent to me by Simon, was A touch of Mistletoe, and I have to say that it was an incredibly good read. It lacks the surrealism of some of her early books but is a wonderful "coming of age"/"story of a life" tale.
It tells the story of two girls, Blanche and Vicky, in the days after their grandfather dies. Left a small legacy they are able to escape their alcoholic mother and her frenetic housework. Blanche goes to London to train as a model, and Vicky goes to Holland to be an au pair. Neither works out successfully, and they end up living in London in one room together. Vicky attends art school, but then their money runs out and they live a hand-to-mouth existence subsisting on cabbage and cheap biscuits. A procession of husbands and lovers ensure as we follow the girls through their lives and experiences.
Just the one Virago cover above - I am definitely adding this to my wishlist!
You've tempted me with this one Verity! But that is the very last purchase before my much needed self-imposed book buying ban begins...at least for December!
ReplyDeleteOoh, it's worth it I promise! And it's a Christmassy title even if the story isn't!
ReplyDeleteI'm going to read this over the festive season, even if it is only festive in title only!
ReplyDeleteAnother one for me to look forward to! Perhaps I'll read it over Christmas.
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