From Library Journal
Bacon's story of a lifelong friendship between two dissimilar women is compelling and heartfelt. As young schoolchildren, Judith tutors Alice in reading. She pities Alice's home situation as well as her sheltered and reclusive outlook on life. But Judith's own life is thrown into upheaval when her mother and father separate, forcing her to attend boarding school. Physical distance separates the friends, and each fondly misses their relationship. Through the years, their lives touch in ways they never imagined. The climactic crisis occurs when a member of Alice's family suddenly needs Judith's legal expertise and understanding. Warm, wise, and totally captivating, this book magically imbues a tired theme with a vibrant story line. Reminiscent of Maeve Binchy or Rosamunde Pilcher, Bacon writes in a thoughtful and leisurely tone. A worthwhile purchase for almost any public library.
-Margaret Ann Hanes, Sterling Heights P.L., MI
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
-Margaret Ann Hanes, Sterling Heights P.L., MI
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
On the surface, childhood friends Judith and Alice don't have anything in common. Alice lives at Sloughbottom Farm, where her hardworking family keeps to itself. Judith lives in town, in the Yorkshire Dales, with her devoted father and mother, until her mother deserts the family and leaves town. As the girls grow older, Alice remains at the farm, whereas Judith follows her father's footsteps and goes off to study law. Neither expects the tenuous friendship to last, but Judith starts coming back to town when she feels the pressure of her London job, and she and Alice meet casually to talk. Gradually it turns out that their conversations are helping them guide each other through life. Then, when Alice's family has a crisis and needs legal help, Judith uses all her expertise to help. Bacon's charming and cozy tale will make readers, especially Catherine Cookson fans, want to brew a cup of tea and lose themselves in this alluring slice of English life. Patty Engelmann
