Books
by Victoria Clayton
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Clouds Among the Stars |
An entertaining romp of a novel narrated by Harriet, the middle and only sensible child of a celebrated theatrical couple. Nothing will ever be the same after her father is accused of murdering his arch rival. Situations and characters verge on the preposterous but, as in all Victoria Clayton's books, the food is delicious and there are underlying truths beneath the trivia. If you're looking for a well written piece of escapism, try this.
(Jenny Baker - bwl 23 April 2004) |
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Dance with Me |
Reminiscent of the styles of a succession of well-known novelists, first (and, to me, most successfully) Nancy Mitford, then Molly Keene with shades of early-Jilly Cooper. It brings in some serious issues before becoming rather melodramatic and finally, neatly (too neatly?), achieving an assortment of happy endings. Recently published but set in 1976 - I am amazed and amused at how dated some of the attitudes and assumptions now seem! Improbable maybe but highly entertaining.
(Jane Grey-Edwards - bwl 18 April 2003) |
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Past Mischief |
Set in the seventies, this enjoyable novel begins with the death of Miranda Stowe's unfaithful husband. Left with three children, a large house and no money, she takes in paying guests who include a Hungarian pianist and an elderly painter. Her characters though often deliberately comic and sometimes bordering on caricature are nevertheless believable and strong, as is the narrative even if the ending is a shade too romantic. The food Miranda prepares is mouth-watering!
(Jenny Baker - bwl 21 November 2003) |
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