Two women in one: Rose Macaulay’s ‘Keeping Up Appearances’ (1928)

*Warning! Contains spoilers!* Review by Helen C: I enjoyed this unusual book, carried along by the author’s enthusiasm, wit and convincing characterisation.  She clearly revels in words, and in some descriptions, heaps them up in piles, in a crescendo of extravagance (I came across at least 6 that I did not know and had to … Continue reading →

‘Company Parade’ by Storm Jameson (1934)

Review by Jane V: Set in London immediately after WW1, the novel, the first of a trilogy, centres on Hervey, the only girl in a group of pre-war graduates who are trying to regroup after the war.  (Hence the title.)  Returned from the front, the men are disillusioned and isolated.   Society has changed and it … Continue reading →

‘The Upas Tree’ by Florence Barclay (1912)

Review by Sylvia D The plot can be summarised as follows: Budding author Ronald West is married to lovely heiress Helen.  He has decided it is imperative he travel to Central Africa to carry out research for his new novel.  He is so obsessed with this idea that his wife decides not to tell him … Continue reading →

A Golden Age detective novel to pass the time: ‘Jumping Jenny’ by Anthony Berkeley (1933)

Review by Clare G: This is a good example of a ‘passes the time’ detective novel from the Golden Age. It is typically knowing and self-referential, having a fictitious crime novelist – Roger Sheringham –  as its main character, and a setting in which the cast attend a themed fancy-dress party, each coming as an … Continue reading →