Torn Sails: A Tale of a Welsh Village

by Allen Raine

Originally published in 1898, this is a fascinating novel of the period and still an interesting read today. Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900's and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.

Genres: Classics, Victorian, 19th Century

308 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1968

About the author

Allen Raine, the pen name of Anne Adaliza Puddicombe, was one of the best-selling authors of the late Victorian/early Edwardian age.

She spent time in London for her education and marriage, but eventually returned to her Welsh roots. Wales features largely in her romantic fiction, with titles like A Welsh Singer (1896) and A Welsh Witch (1902).

Her books sold millions of copies, not only across Wales but in the whole of Britain, and yet these days she is largely forgotten or ignored.

Reviews

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a pleasant surprise! I went into this with low expectations as this is my first Allen Raine novel. I was immediately swept up in the gorgeous imagery of the coastal town and the daily life of its inhabitants. The first half of the book was lovely, and I enjoyed the ride. The second half ramped up in drama. Was it a bit overdramatic at times? Yes. Was it hyperbolic? Yes. Did that take away from my enjoyment? Absolutely not. The second half tackled some heavy topics and really connected me with the characters and their struggles. I flew through the last chunk of the book because I had to know what happened. So good!

TW: child loss, mental illness