Eliza Goodall is not sure what drew her to 11-year-old Poppy Appleton. Living in a hovel on the Goodall farm, the child was filthy and really quite ordinary. But Poppy's determination to keep the rain overflow from spilling into her "home" and onto her cleanly scrubbed floor appeals to Mrs. Goodall, and she rescues her from a life of squalor by offering her the position of dairymaid. Poppy is ecstatic cleaning floors that stay clean and working in the almost sterile environment of the dairy. Her appearance improves with good food and regular baths, and Mrs. Goodall teaches her to read and write. Gradually, Poppy is given more responsibilities and is treated almost like a member of the family. Then Mrs. Goodall falls deathly ill, and Poppy faces a tough decision: Should she stay with the family who has given her so much or follow her heart and the man she's always loved? Featuring characters from
Tomorrow's Memories (1997), this novel offers a pleasant read but few surprises.
Melanie Duncan
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Review
'Her thousands of fans recognise the artistry of a true storyteller' -- Lancashire Life 'Poignant and well plotted, this is the book to curl up with to shut out troubles' -- Women's Realm on BEYOND THE SHINING WATER 'This saga is, like all of Audrey Howard's books, compelling and memorable ... a joy to read.' -- The Historical Novels Review on A PLACE CALLED HOPE 'A compelling and well-paced tale' -- Coventry Evening Telegraph on A FLOWER IN SEASON 'A fast-moving glorious story ... The story twists and turns. As ever, Audrey Howard treats us to lovely details ... It is so sad, sweet and lively too ... Another true gem.' -- North Wales Chronicle on WHISPERS ON THE WATER 'Howard's timeless story of love and betrayal is sure to enchant her army of loyal readers' -- Lancashire Evening Post on PAINTED HIGHWAY