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The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge
Secrets from the past, unravelling in the present…
'A deeply satisfying read – gripping plot, loveable characters, and sumptuous locations, it draws you in and holds your attention until the last word. I loved it.’ SANTA MONTEFIORE
'An intriguing and heart-warming story. I couldn’t put it down.' BARBARA ERSKINE
'I loved it. I was completely immersed in the story and the setting. So clever and interesting and beautifully written' ELIZABETH BUCHAN
'Beautifully written, warm and intelligent' TRACY REES
‘A fascinating story – strong characters, an intriguing world, a gorgeous setting and an uplifting ending. Perfect! It reminded me of Rosamund Pilcher, the kind of read you get truly lost in.’ VERONICA HENRY
'An engrossing read, with a wide and varied cast of characters who leap off the page. A wonderful page-turner, I loved it.' JANE JOHNSON
Uncovering secrets that span generations, Rachel Hore delivers intriguing, involving and emotive narrative reading group fiction like few other writers can.
Nancy Foster has harboured a devastating secret that shattered her professional and personal life. On meeting her, journalist Stef Lansdown realizes that she has the power to restore Nancy’s reputation and to heal the wounds, if only Nancy will trust her. But someone else wants to get to the bottom of the story first, someone who doesn’t want it to be told.
Set in the beautiful environs of the Norfolk Broads in 2010, and in London in the '40s and ‘50s, when life for career-driven women was so different, The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge is Sunday Times multi-million copy bestselling author Rachel Hore’s utterly compelling new novel, interweaving the past and the present.
'A deeply satisfying read – gripping plot, loveable characters, and sumptuous locations, it draws you in and holds your attention until the last word. I loved it.’ SANTA MONTEFIORE
'An intriguing and heart-warming story. I couldn’t put it down.' BARBARA ERSKINE
'I loved it. I was completely immersed in the story and the setting. So clever and interesting and beautifully written' ELIZABETH BUCHAN
'Beautifully written, warm and intelligent' TRACY REES
‘A fascinating story – strong characters, an intriguing world, a gorgeous setting and an uplifting ending. Perfect! It reminded me of Rosamund Pilcher, the kind of read you get truly lost in.’ VERONICA HENRY
'An engrossing read, with a wide and varied cast of characters who leap off the page. A wonderful page-turner, I loved it.' JANE JOHNSON
Uncovering secrets that span generations, Rachel Hore delivers intriguing, involving and emotive narrative reading group fiction like few other writers can.
Nancy Foster has harboured a devastating secret that shattered her professional and personal life. On meeting her, journalist Stef Lansdown realizes that she has the power to restore Nancy’s reputation and to heal the wounds, if only Nancy will trust her. But someone else wants to get to the bottom of the story first, someone who doesn’t want it to be told.
Set in the beautiful environs of the Norfolk Broads in 2010, and in London in the '40s and ‘50s, when life for career-driven women was so different, The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge is Sunday Times multi-million copy bestselling author Rachel Hore’s utterly compelling new novel, interweaving the past and the present.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2025
161 people are currently reading
381 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Hore
43 books755 followersRachel Hore worked in London publishing for many years before moving with her family to Norwich, Norfolk and turning to writing fiction.
Rachel is the Sunday Times bestselling author of The Dream House (2006), The Memory Garden (2007), The Glass Painter's Daughter (2009), which was shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists' Association Novel of the Year 2010, A Place of Secrets (2010), which was a Richard and Judy Bookclub pick, and A Gathering Storm (2011), which was shortlisted for the RNA Historical Novel of the year, 2012. The Silent Tide was published in 2013, A Week in Paris in 2014 and The House on Bellevue Gardens in 2015.
Her new novel, Last Letter Home, will be published on 22nd March 2018.
Rachel is the Sunday Times bestselling author of The Dream House (2006), The Memory Garden (2007), The Glass Painter's Daughter (2009), which was shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists' Association Novel of the Year 2010, A Place of Secrets (2010), which was a Richard and Judy Bookclub pick, and A Gathering Storm (2011), which was shortlisted for the RNA Historical Novel of the year, 2012. The Silent Tide was published in 2013, A Week in Paris in 2014 and The House on Bellevue Gardens in 2015.
Her new novel, Last Letter Home, will be published on 22nd March 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
June 20, 2025
2010, England. Stef Lansdown is a free-lance journalist, she’s visiting her mum in Norfolk and is considering writing a book about women scientists.
Nancy Foster lives in Dragonfly Lodge overlooking the Broads, she has her cat for company and loves animals. Nancy is a private person, her grandson Aaron is very protective of his Nan, he knows something happened when she was younger and she won’t talk about it. When Nancy and Stef meet, Nancy is very reluctant to share any information about her past, her time at university and work history and certainly doesn’t want to be included in a book.
Over a few weeks Nancy gets to know Stef and she discovers she’s not a sensational journalists, they develop a bond and she changes her mind about sharing her past. Stef is taken back to a time when ladies didn’t want to further their education and Nancy had to fight to do this, and overcome countless challenges and obstacles along the way and even once she graduates and working; she’s paid less and is told not to mention something she discovered and it could have tragic consequences.
I received a copy of The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge from NetGalley and Simon & Schuster UK in exchange for an honest review. This is my favourite book by Rachel Hore, I felt like I was in Norfolk and overlooking the Broad and it was lush with descriptions of the area, old cottages and wildlife.
The narrative highlights the problems and prejudice women faced in the 1940’s and 1950’s and especially in the scientific field, many didn’t get credit for their work and achievements.
A story about society and women roles, lack of opportunities and being taken seriously, following your dreams and friendship and with some intrigue and secrets and possible sabotage included to add a bit of mystery.
The perfect read for Women’s History Month, I savoured every page and five stars from me and I highly recommend.
Nancy Foster lives in Dragonfly Lodge overlooking the Broads, she has her cat for company and loves animals. Nancy is a private person, her grandson Aaron is very protective of his Nan, he knows something happened when she was younger and she won’t talk about it. When Nancy and Stef meet, Nancy is very reluctant to share any information about her past, her time at university and work history and certainly doesn’t want to be included in a book.
Over a few weeks Nancy gets to know Stef and she discovers she’s not a sensational journalists, they develop a bond and she changes her mind about sharing her past. Stef is taken back to a time when ladies didn’t want to further their education and Nancy had to fight to do this, and overcome countless challenges and obstacles along the way and even once she graduates and working; she’s paid less and is told not to mention something she discovered and it could have tragic consequences.
I received a copy of The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge from NetGalley and Simon & Schuster UK in exchange for an honest review. This is my favourite book by Rachel Hore, I felt like I was in Norfolk and overlooking the Broad and it was lush with descriptions of the area, old cottages and wildlife.
The narrative highlights the problems and prejudice women faced in the 1940’s and 1950’s and especially in the scientific field, many didn’t get credit for their work and achievements.
A story about society and women roles, lack of opportunities and being taken seriously, following your dreams and friendship and with some intrigue and secrets and possible sabotage included to add a bit of mystery.
The perfect read for Women’s History Month, I savoured every page and five stars from me and I highly recommend.
April 10, 2025
Sadly, I seem to be in the minority that didn't enjoy this novel, so I'll keep my review short and sweet.
The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge is based on a very interesting concept, and I enjoyed that the novel champions female scientists and women in STEM. At its heart, this book is about past historical struggles against male oppression and the importance of these career women receiving justice and recognition.
However, I found the novel to be overly long and dull, and the writing certainly was not for me. I felt very distant from Stef and Nancy, so I didn't feel any empathy for them (even when I should). The tone is quite monotonous, and the romance felt extremely forced. In the end, I struggled to finish and had to persevere through each chapter.
That said, other Goodreads reviewers seemed to really enjoy this novel. Therefore, unfortunately, this was probably just a case where the writing didn't work for me personally. So, if you're a fan of Rachel Hore or stories of women overcoming substantial challenges, go ahead and give The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge a try. You might have a better experience!
*Thank you NetGalley for the e-ARC*
The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge is based on a very interesting concept, and I enjoyed that the novel champions female scientists and women in STEM. At its heart, this book is about past historical struggles against male oppression and the importance of these career women receiving justice and recognition.
However, I found the novel to be overly long and dull, and the writing certainly was not for me. I felt very distant from Stef and Nancy, so I didn't feel any empathy for them (even when I should). The tone is quite monotonous, and the romance felt extremely forced. In the end, I struggled to finish and had to persevere through each chapter.
That said, other Goodreads reviewers seemed to really enjoy this novel. Therefore, unfortunately, this was probably just a case where the writing didn't work for me personally. So, if you're a fan of Rachel Hore or stories of women overcoming substantial challenges, go ahead and give The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge a try. You might have a better experience!
*Thank you NetGalley for the e-ARC*
May 28, 2025
Many thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
I’ve enjoyed many Rachel Hore novels and was excited to get this one from Net Galley.
It is a dual-timeline story with one foot in immediate post-war London and one in (almost) present day Norfolk. I loved the premise and also the Holkham/Norfolk Broads setting & I was invested in the main characters.
We follow Nancy, a student in 1947, through her struggles against a wall of sexism and prejudice to be a scientist and then catch up with her again as an elderly lady. In the present day section we also follow Stef, a newly freelance journalist intent on writing Nancy’s story.
Overall I was disappointed with the read, despite admiring the characterisation & basic storyline. It was put over in a slightly laborious way with many information dumps and a lot of extraneous scientific information (mainly about locusts). I also could not understand why the author chose to mirror situations in both the past and the present; both sections feature an MC with an older sister in an identical marital situation (to which they both had identical emotional and physical reaponses) & both also feature male MC’s who are divorced with a 6 year old daughter. I found this a little confusing to read.
The love interest for Stef is signposted early on so no surprises there but the final paragraphs are a little cheesy even though were given few details of their growing relationship.
The storyline idea is a good one, I feel the editing team let the author down here as it could have been turned around.
I’ve enjoyed many Rachel Hore novels and was excited to get this one from Net Galley.
It is a dual-timeline story with one foot in immediate post-war London and one in (almost) present day Norfolk. I loved the premise and also the Holkham/Norfolk Broads setting & I was invested in the main characters.
We follow Nancy, a student in 1947, through her struggles against a wall of sexism and prejudice to be a scientist and then catch up with her again as an elderly lady. In the present day section we also follow Stef, a newly freelance journalist intent on writing Nancy’s story.
Overall I was disappointed with the read, despite admiring the characterisation & basic storyline. It was put over in a slightly laborious way with many information dumps and a lot of extraneous scientific information (mainly about locusts). I also could not understand why the author chose to mirror situations in both the past and the present; both sections feature an MC with an older sister in an identical marital situation (to which they both had identical emotional and physical reaponses) & both also feature male MC’s who are divorced with a 6 year old daughter. I found this a little confusing to read.
The love interest for Stef is signposted early on so no surprises there but the final paragraphs are a little cheesy even though were given few details of their growing relationship.
The storyline idea is a good one, I feel the editing team let the author down here as it could have been turned around.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2025
Very disappointing, especially that I loved her previous book, "The Love Child". Basically, the story is about Nancy, who is a doctor in biology, after graduating from university in the '40. It's about her struggles to prove herself, her family and the society that she's a scientist in a world dominated by males.
I expected more. The book is very long, with no reason. It's more about the background, the noise, the background stories, than the story itself. It feels anti-climatic, and I think it could have been easily a short story, and not a full length novel. The modern love story, of course, is cheesy and very Hallmarky, and so predictable. So that annoyed me as well. I feel that it's exactly much ado about nothing, because with the main story you expect, wow, the big revelation, but it's exactly what you predicted the revelation to be. There are so many other books on this theme so much better.The writing is good, but the story is boring and unnecessarily long. It pains me to give it one 🌟, but I just did not feel the story!
I expected more. The book is very long, with no reason. It's more about the background, the noise, the background stories, than the story itself. It feels anti-climatic, and I think it could have been easily a short story, and not a full length novel. The modern love story, of course, is cheesy and very Hallmarky, and so predictable. So that annoyed me as well. I feel that it's exactly much ado about nothing, because with the main story you expect, wow, the big revelation, but it's exactly what you predicted the revelation to be. There are so many other books on this theme so much better.The writing is good, but the story is boring and unnecessarily long. It pains me to give it one 🌟, but I just did not feel the story!
February 24, 2025
This is a hard one for me as I love Rachel Hores previous books but this one seemed over long and I really found it a bit of a struggle. I loved the theme and the different timelines but everything seemed crammed right towards the end of the book! Thanks to NetGalley for the chance to read this book. TheSecretsofDragonflyLodge #NetGalley
July 29, 2025
4.5*
This has a dual timeline, set during the 1950’s and 2010 featuring two main characters – former zoologist Nancy Foster and Stef, a freelance journalist with a controversial book publication behind her. Whilst Stef is visiting her mother at her new Norfolk home, she is introduced to Nancy, now in her 80s and living on a remote nature reserve. Stef is very keen to interview Nancy for her new book focusing on female scientists however Nancy clearly has reservations about being included in the project – there is something in her past she is keen to keep secret.
Unusually, I enjoyed both timelines equally. Nancy’s story began in the 1930’s as a child and the family dynamics have a long lasting effect on her. She is determined to pursue her ambitions but is met along the way with misogyny, obstruction and prejudice just because she is a woman trying to succeed in a man’s world. Nancy was a fantastic character – being resolute and principled but also vulnerable in the face of betrayal.
Stef is also struggling professionally. Newly single, her book is important to her and she is keen for Nancy’s recollections. However she first has to gain the trust of not only Nancy, but also her grandson Aaron who in protecting his grandmother comes across as being hostile and suspicious. I loved that Stef genuinely cared for Nancy and was always there in time of need.
North Norfolk is one of my favourite places and with mentions for locations including Blakeney and Holkham the richly detailed descriptions, especially of the Broads nature reserve, give a visual and evocative feel to the story. Although this is a fiction novel, there is also the detail of Nancy’s academic life and the inclusion of scientific fact relating to her chosen subject matter.
There is much to enjoy here. Besides the historic societal aspects and expectations facing women of that time, there is mystery, drama and romance. Nancy’s ‘secret’ was frequently referred to and whilst I imagined all manner of scenarios in the lead up to the reveal, the real enjoyment for me was learning about Nancy’s life (and loves). The author explains in the end notes that the story was inspired by the experiences of her own family.
Although Nancy’s story is the focus, I was completely engrossed in the lives of both women. My proof copy was 467 pages but I flew through the story keen to discover more. Definitely recommended.
This has a dual timeline, set during the 1950’s and 2010 featuring two main characters – former zoologist Nancy Foster and Stef, a freelance journalist with a controversial book publication behind her. Whilst Stef is visiting her mother at her new Norfolk home, she is introduced to Nancy, now in her 80s and living on a remote nature reserve. Stef is very keen to interview Nancy for her new book focusing on female scientists however Nancy clearly has reservations about being included in the project – there is something in her past she is keen to keep secret.
Unusually, I enjoyed both timelines equally. Nancy’s story began in the 1930’s as a child and the family dynamics have a long lasting effect on her. She is determined to pursue her ambitions but is met along the way with misogyny, obstruction and prejudice just because she is a woman trying to succeed in a man’s world. Nancy was a fantastic character – being resolute and principled but also vulnerable in the face of betrayal.
Stef is also struggling professionally. Newly single, her book is important to her and she is keen for Nancy’s recollections. However she first has to gain the trust of not only Nancy, but also her grandson Aaron who in protecting his grandmother comes across as being hostile and suspicious. I loved that Stef genuinely cared for Nancy and was always there in time of need.
North Norfolk is one of my favourite places and with mentions for locations including Blakeney and Holkham the richly detailed descriptions, especially of the Broads nature reserve, give a visual and evocative feel to the story. Although this is a fiction novel, there is also the detail of Nancy’s academic life and the inclusion of scientific fact relating to her chosen subject matter.
There is much to enjoy here. Besides the historic societal aspects and expectations facing women of that time, there is mystery, drama and romance. Nancy’s ‘secret’ was frequently referred to and whilst I imagined all manner of scenarios in the lead up to the reveal, the real enjoyment for me was learning about Nancy’s life (and loves). The author explains in the end notes that the story was inspired by the experiences of her own family.
Although Nancy’s story is the focus, I was completely engrossed in the lives of both women. My proof copy was 467 pages but I flew through the story keen to discover more. Definitely recommended.
July 15, 2025
Rachel Hore’s The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge is a quietly compelling novel that blends a present-day storyline with history, offering a thoughtful reflection on women’s lives and ambitions. It is a sweet, gently-paced read that has an evocative setting and meaningful subject matter.
The novel unfolds across two timelines: one set in 2010 and the other in the 1940s–1950s. In the present day, we meet Stef, a writer visiting her mother in a picturesque Norfolk cottage. There she meets Nancy, a former zoologist whose previous career is somewhat of a mystery. Stef, who is working on a book about women scientists, is drawn to Nancy’s story… though Nancy is reluctant to revisit her past. What is Nancy hiding, and why?
The historical timeline is the real heart of the novel, shining a light on the challenges faced by women in STEM fields during the mid-20th century. Rachel Hore explores gender, ambition, and societal expectations in this novel, and through Stef’s interviews with Nancy we hear how women like Nancy were often forced to choose between personal fulfilment and professional development.
I enjoyed reading about the treatment of women’s roles across different eras, especially Nancy’s determination.
The historical sections were my favourite, as Stef’s character in the present sometimes felt underdeveloped and oversimplified. The romance subplot involving her didn’t fully land for me.
The Norfolk Broads setting is almost a character in itself anda setting I always love reading about in books. It’s no surprise that Hore, who once taught me during my English Literature degree at the University of East Anglia, writes about this part of the country so well. Having lived in the area myself, I found her descriptions vivid and nostalgic. Though not perfect, I enjoyed The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge and would recommend it to anyone looking for an enjoyable read.
The novel unfolds across two timelines: one set in 2010 and the other in the 1940s–1950s. In the present day, we meet Stef, a writer visiting her mother in a picturesque Norfolk cottage. There she meets Nancy, a former zoologist whose previous career is somewhat of a mystery. Stef, who is working on a book about women scientists, is drawn to Nancy’s story… though Nancy is reluctant to revisit her past. What is Nancy hiding, and why?
The historical timeline is the real heart of the novel, shining a light on the challenges faced by women in STEM fields during the mid-20th century. Rachel Hore explores gender, ambition, and societal expectations in this novel, and through Stef’s interviews with Nancy we hear how women like Nancy were often forced to choose between personal fulfilment and professional development.
I enjoyed reading about the treatment of women’s roles across different eras, especially Nancy’s determination.
The historical sections were my favourite, as Stef’s character in the present sometimes felt underdeveloped and oversimplified. The romance subplot involving her didn’t fully land for me.
The Norfolk Broads setting is almost a character in itself anda setting I always love reading about in books. It’s no surprise that Hore, who once taught me during my English Literature degree at the University of East Anglia, writes about this part of the country so well. Having lived in the area myself, I found her descriptions vivid and nostalgic. Though not perfect, I enjoyed The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge and would recommend it to anyone looking for an enjoyable read.
December 27, 2025
Absolutely loved this beautiful, evocative novel which brought to life the difficulties faced by women scientists from the 1940s and 1950s whose valuable work went uncelebrated and unrecognised. The author cleverly interwove this story with a modern timeline featuring a female journalist with her own struggles who, in investigating this story is led to the beautiful Norfolk broads where her life takes unexpected turns. Full of mystery, intrigue and romance, I was glued from the first page till the last.
May 7, 2026
I loved this book, it gripped me from the start. Great story.
October 9, 2025
enjoyable and some good themes of women in science and the struggles they face. nothing special about the book itself tho x
May 31, 2025
A lovely dual timeline novel, set in post war Britain and early 2000's.
Stephanie is an author who is writing a book about female scientists and the roles they played. She is introduced to Dr Nancy Foster, who is reluctant to tell her life story. However she relents, and this novel is her story. A story of hard work and determination to make a name for herself at a time when there was no acknowledgement of the important role women scientists had in society.
It was an enjoyable read, loosely based on the author's family memories. Set in the beautiful Norfolk Broads, the book is very descriptive.
Stephanie is an author who is writing a book about female scientists and the roles they played. She is introduced to Dr Nancy Foster, who is reluctant to tell her life story. However she relents, and this novel is her story. A story of hard work and determination to make a name for herself at a time when there was no acknowledgement of the important role women scientists had in society.
It was an enjoyable read, loosely based on the author's family memories. Set in the beautiful Norfolk Broads, the book is very descriptive.
March 9, 2026
3.75⭐ I enjoyed the dual storyline and found the characters engaging and relatable however, I was expecting a twist or something exciting to happen and found the ending rushed.
Would still recommend as I love this authors writing.
Would still recommend as I love this authors writing.
September 4, 2025
A lovely tale of family, relationships and female achievement.
April 12, 2026
A nice book, slightly predictable in places. Interesting to read about the research undertaken and Nancy sounded an interesting character. An easy read, that I enjoyed.
April 19, 2026
I struggled to review this one because there were parts of the book that I really enjoyed and parts that I didnt so much.
I loved the relationship between Nancy and Stef - the storytelling around Dragonfly Lodge, the present day, and Stefs family was beautiful. I wanted to be there. However, I found the storytelling of Nancy's past very boring and dragged out.
I was waiting for a big reveal that didn't totally end up as a "wow" moment.
It was a long read for me, not gripping at all, but I continued because I didn't want to give up on Nancy and Stef.
Sadly a 3/5 for me and I wouldn't recommend.
I loved the relationship between Nancy and Stef - the storytelling around Dragonfly Lodge, the present day, and Stefs family was beautiful. I wanted to be there. However, I found the storytelling of Nancy's past very boring and dragged out.
I was waiting for a big reveal that didn't totally end up as a "wow" moment.
It was a long read for me, not gripping at all, but I continued because I didn't want to give up on Nancy and Stef.
Sadly a 3/5 for me and I wouldn't recommend.
September 18, 2025
A dual timeframe drama set during the 1950s and also in 2010. Nancy Foster used to be a zoologist in her younger years during a time when it was difficult to be perceived as a career woman. She now lives on a remote nature reserve in Norfolk. Journalist Stef Lansdowne is visiting her mother when she discovers she might get an interview with Nancy so that Nancy’s story can be included in her new book about female scientists. But Nancy has a secret which she is not sure she should reveal….
I enjoyed this book. It’s well written and gives a great insight into society during the 1940s/50s and what it was like being a woman trying to follow a career at that time. There are some lovely descriptions of the Norfolk Broads and the characters are well drawn. An engaging and absorbing tale, probably not my favourite book by Rachel Hore but certainly a worthwhile read.
I enjoyed this book. It’s well written and gives a great insight into society during the 1940s/50s and what it was like being a woman trying to follow a career at that time. There are some lovely descriptions of the Norfolk Broads and the characters are well drawn. An engaging and absorbing tale, probably not my favourite book by Rachel Hore but certainly a worthwhile read.
April 24, 2026
Highlights the shocking discrimination female scientists faced in the 1950s, with no choice but to have a career or marriage
April 12, 2026
You should not judge this book by its silly cover. The cover doesnt portray what this book is really about which is a shame as its a great read about women in STEM in the 60s and how they were oppressed by men! Nancy is a true baddie and I loved reading her story!
March 29, 2026
I was hoping to enjoy this a bit more, but I couldn’t get into it, the characters felt quite distant with one another and also the tale was sadly boring. It just felt a bit flat. The ending too felt a bit dreary. I didn’t get much sense of romance it all felt a bit polite and quaint.
It is an easy read and some of the subject matter is intriguing but I did find it hard to care at certain points. Over all it’s ok but nothing really special.
It is an easy read and some of the subject matter is intriguing but I did find it hard to care at certain points. Over all it’s ok but nothing really special.
August 5, 2025
The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge is the latest book from Rachel Hore. It’s told through the dual timeline format, set in 2010 on the Norfolk Broads and the early 1950’s where Nancy one of the main female protagonists studies science in a very much male dominated field. In the present day journalist Stef has just been made redundant from a national broadsheet newspaper and less than a year ago she broke up with her boyfriend. So to say she’s not having the best of times would be an understatement. She has previously written one book and is seeking ideas for her next. The topic of women scientists proves too irresistible to not delve further in to. Even more so when her mother Cara who has recently moved to the Norfolk Broads mentions that she has met a lady named Nancy now aged 81 who was once a scientist. Stef thinks she would make a good subject for her book. Looking up Nancy online Stef can’t gain access to Nancy’s thesis. Access denied. That’s strange. Why would that be? Has Nancy something to hide?
Leaving London behind for a while Stef goes to stay with her mother and hopes to speak to Nancy and learn more. But Nancy is evasive and not one to open up to just anyone. Why should she tell her story to someone who has appeared out of nowhere? Nancy’s grandson Aaron is not very forthcoming either. In fact Stef thinks he is quite rude but really he is only protecting Nancy especially seen as she is receiving threats that she must leave her beautiful cottage on the nearby reserve. A place which she has called home for many years with all her menagerie of domestic and wild rescued animals. The aspect of the plot regrading the threats fell a little flat to be honest and it was glossed over at the end as if the author forgot it was there earlier on in the book and needed to mention it in order to resolve any lingering plot threads. It needn’t have been there at all in my opinion. Over time Stef grows close to Nancy and they develop a good friendship. One in which Nancy feels comfortable in opening up and sharing her story.
Stef’s story does feature too but to a lesser degree. Similarities between herself and Nancy do occur in terms of family and relationships as Nancy’s vulnerability and defensiveness starts to break down but I found myself far more intrigued by Nancy in the past that Stef in the present. Stef was the glue that linked the past and the present and was very much a necessary inclusion as she by writing about Nancy was bringing important themes to the fore and helping Nancy with her own personal sadness which still hung over her regrading her secret. Romance does feature for Stef and there was a nice community feel created with her mother and Ted and learning bits about the reserve, the birds, the wildlife, the insects and the area in general but once Nancy’s story got going that’s when my attention really began to be held.
In the past we learn of Nancy’s family and home situation growing up and to be honest I got through those bits as quickly as possible because they weren’t overly interesting or adding anything to the story as I have outlined down below. Nancy in the early 1950’s was a woman ahead of her time and one of very few who wished to work in the area of science specifically zoology.The author deftly explores the societal roles of women at the time. The role of women was viewed as being in the home and if one wished to work and then marry then they would have to quit their jobs. As Nancy navigates school, then university we see her mix with fellow male students. One in particular James catches her eye but hers is an unrequited love. The plot regarding James really picked up in the latter half and no matter how much Nancy was obsessed with him there was just that little something about him for me that seemed to good to be true. I always felt he had ulterior motives.
Nancy was diligent, hardworking, intelligent and very ambitious. She strived to overcome the narrow minded opinions that women wouldn’t be any good in her chosen area. There were many obstacles thrown in her direction which allowed several twists and turns to develop. Her interactions and relationships with her fellow colleagues both male and female were explored as well as her love life. She wrestled with the fact that at times her heart was telling her one thing but her brain and her long term goals and what she wished to achieve with her research were telling her something else. She didn’t want to be one of those women who had to leave their studies and work because she might have gotten married. But at the time no balance could be struck and it just makes you realise how far we have come to the present day and without those who have gone before us fighting for what it right and just we could very well be in the same situation. Throughout it all a secret is at the heart of Nancy’s story and I hoped that when it was revealed that it wouldn’t be underwhelming or anticlimactic. Thankfully it wasn’t at all and the ending was perfect and helped bring things full circle.
Overall, I did find the book did take quite some time to get into. It was overly long and not in the usual sense that the ending was dragged out more so that the first half of the book was too long with not much happening. It was like one long big introduction and I was questioning would I ever get to the crux of the story because it seemed to be taking an awfully long time to get there. Reducing the length of what I termed the long intro would have benefitted the book overall in my opinion. I did wonder was this the book for me and once I’ve begun a book I never give up and persevere until I reach the end and with this one I was thankful that I did. That joyous moment when a book has only been so so up to a certain point and then bang something clicks and you are off on a journey and you find yourself rapidly turning the pages and before you know it a hundred pages or more has passed by in the blink of an eye.
Well, that moment came for me and despite my reservations about the first half I found myself becoming deeply invested in the story. In fact I’d go as far as to say that I was fascinated with all the research Nancy was doing regarding the effects of pesticides on locusts. Who would have thought that would have been interesting? Not me that’s for sure. Something that could have been boring and like wading through it and like reading a science textbook Rachel Hore made interesting and the further I read in the later half of the book the more curious I became as to what had destroyed Nancy’s promising career in science. The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge may not have been my absolute favourite by this author, her earlier books still hold a special place in my heart, but as I’ve mentioned up above get through the first half and you are in for a great read that wonderfully highlights the achievements of women in a male dominated world and how ambition and fighting for what you want in life will see you go far despite the many stumbling blocks placed in your path.
Leaving London behind for a while Stef goes to stay with her mother and hopes to speak to Nancy and learn more. But Nancy is evasive and not one to open up to just anyone. Why should she tell her story to someone who has appeared out of nowhere? Nancy’s grandson Aaron is not very forthcoming either. In fact Stef thinks he is quite rude but really he is only protecting Nancy especially seen as she is receiving threats that she must leave her beautiful cottage on the nearby reserve. A place which she has called home for many years with all her menagerie of domestic and wild rescued animals. The aspect of the plot regrading the threats fell a little flat to be honest and it was glossed over at the end as if the author forgot it was there earlier on in the book and needed to mention it in order to resolve any lingering plot threads. It needn’t have been there at all in my opinion. Over time Stef grows close to Nancy and they develop a good friendship. One in which Nancy feels comfortable in opening up and sharing her story.
Stef’s story does feature too but to a lesser degree. Similarities between herself and Nancy do occur in terms of family and relationships as Nancy’s vulnerability and defensiveness starts to break down but I found myself far more intrigued by Nancy in the past that Stef in the present. Stef was the glue that linked the past and the present and was very much a necessary inclusion as she by writing about Nancy was bringing important themes to the fore and helping Nancy with her own personal sadness which still hung over her regrading her secret. Romance does feature for Stef and there was a nice community feel created with her mother and Ted and learning bits about the reserve, the birds, the wildlife, the insects and the area in general but once Nancy’s story got going that’s when my attention really began to be held.
In the past we learn of Nancy’s family and home situation growing up and to be honest I got through those bits as quickly as possible because they weren’t overly interesting or adding anything to the story as I have outlined down below. Nancy in the early 1950’s was a woman ahead of her time and one of very few who wished to work in the area of science specifically zoology.The author deftly explores the societal roles of women at the time. The role of women was viewed as being in the home and if one wished to work and then marry then they would have to quit their jobs. As Nancy navigates school, then university we see her mix with fellow male students. One in particular James catches her eye but hers is an unrequited love. The plot regarding James really picked up in the latter half and no matter how much Nancy was obsessed with him there was just that little something about him for me that seemed to good to be true. I always felt he had ulterior motives.
Nancy was diligent, hardworking, intelligent and very ambitious. She strived to overcome the narrow minded opinions that women wouldn’t be any good in her chosen area. There were many obstacles thrown in her direction which allowed several twists and turns to develop. Her interactions and relationships with her fellow colleagues both male and female were explored as well as her love life. She wrestled with the fact that at times her heart was telling her one thing but her brain and her long term goals and what she wished to achieve with her research were telling her something else. She didn’t want to be one of those women who had to leave their studies and work because she might have gotten married. But at the time no balance could be struck and it just makes you realise how far we have come to the present day and without those who have gone before us fighting for what it right and just we could very well be in the same situation. Throughout it all a secret is at the heart of Nancy’s story and I hoped that when it was revealed that it wouldn’t be underwhelming or anticlimactic. Thankfully it wasn’t at all and the ending was perfect and helped bring things full circle.
Overall, I did find the book did take quite some time to get into. It was overly long and not in the usual sense that the ending was dragged out more so that the first half of the book was too long with not much happening. It was like one long big introduction and I was questioning would I ever get to the crux of the story because it seemed to be taking an awfully long time to get there. Reducing the length of what I termed the long intro would have benefitted the book overall in my opinion. I did wonder was this the book for me and once I’ve begun a book I never give up and persevere until I reach the end and with this one I was thankful that I did. That joyous moment when a book has only been so so up to a certain point and then bang something clicks and you are off on a journey and you find yourself rapidly turning the pages and before you know it a hundred pages or more has passed by in the blink of an eye.
Well, that moment came for me and despite my reservations about the first half I found myself becoming deeply invested in the story. In fact I’d go as far as to say that I was fascinated with all the research Nancy was doing regarding the effects of pesticides on locusts. Who would have thought that would have been interesting? Not me that’s for sure. Something that could have been boring and like wading through it and like reading a science textbook Rachel Hore made interesting and the further I read in the later half of the book the more curious I became as to what had destroyed Nancy’s promising career in science. The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge may not have been my absolute favourite by this author, her earlier books still hold a special place in my heart, but as I’ve mentioned up above get through the first half and you are in for a great read that wonderfully highlights the achievements of women in a male dominated world and how ambition and fighting for what you want in life will see you go far despite the many stumbling blocks placed in your path.
February 28, 2025
Found this incredibly boring.
May 11, 2025
As soon as I started reading The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge, I was completely drawn into the story. It is an absolutely fascinating read where I learnt so much.
The novel unfolds across two distinct time periods and across two striking locations - the Norfolk Broads in 2010 and then London in the 1940s and 1950s, skillfully blending the past and the present.
I felt totally immersed in the setting and how it was captured so beautifully. It made me want to go and visit the tranquil and picturesque Norfolk Broads and experience the area that the book brought so vividly to life.
At the heart of the novel we meet Nancy Foster and Stef Lansdown whose lives are unexpectedly drawn together by the secrets of the past. Nancy, a retired scientist, leads a quiet and contented life in her idyllic home on the edge of a nature reserve, where she finds peace in her surroundings. There is a bookcase in Nancy’s home where her notebook was carefully kept – this is so significant to the story.
Stef is a journalist and has a natural curiosity, constantly asking questions and exploring different ideas and perspectives. After attending a talk given by Nancy, journalist Stef is very keen to include her story in her upcoming book. Stef is captivated by Nancy and wants to find out more.
The relationship between Nancy and Stef starts off understandably very guarded. Nancy does not want her secret to be exposed and is worried that by sharing her story with Stef this will happen. Their bond does strengthen as Nancy slowly opens up. I really loved the relationship between Nancy and Stef and how it grew slowly but steadily. I loved how Nancy saw Stef as the one person she could finally open up to, after so many years. Their friendship was beautiful, built on trust, mutual understanding, and a shared commitment to uncover long-buried truths.
This is an extraordinary book, highlighting the enormous challenges and fight that women had in pursuing careers in science and overcoming barriers to become scientists in a male dominated field. I was fascinated by the actual work that was being undertaken and have since read a lot about DDT and its significant and devastating environmental impact. I will continue to read more as The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge has had such an impact on me and I am constantly thinking about the novel.
The book explores the many difficulties women encountered, from unfair wages and lack of acknowledgment to the obstacles that slowed their progress in male-dominated professions. But it also highlights the resilience of women, fighting for the respect and opportunities that they (and the future generations) so truly deserved. They had been denied them for far too long. They deserved accreditation for their work – Nancy struggled to receive credit for her vital contributions, with her work frequently overlooked or attributed to male colleagues. This is so unfair and totally wrong, robbing Nancy of the recognition and opportunities she rightfully deserved.
This is an incredibly written book, which has been deeply researched. A captivating story of long-buried secrets, inner strength, and the quest for truth. And some romance too!
This is a truly special book and an unforgettable five-star read. Thank you! The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge is my favourite book by Rachel Hore.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster UK for my advanced copy. This review is based on a NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
The novel unfolds across two distinct time periods and across two striking locations - the Norfolk Broads in 2010 and then London in the 1940s and 1950s, skillfully blending the past and the present.
I felt totally immersed in the setting and how it was captured so beautifully. It made me want to go and visit the tranquil and picturesque Norfolk Broads and experience the area that the book brought so vividly to life.
At the heart of the novel we meet Nancy Foster and Stef Lansdown whose lives are unexpectedly drawn together by the secrets of the past. Nancy, a retired scientist, leads a quiet and contented life in her idyllic home on the edge of a nature reserve, where she finds peace in her surroundings. There is a bookcase in Nancy’s home where her notebook was carefully kept – this is so significant to the story.
Stef is a journalist and has a natural curiosity, constantly asking questions and exploring different ideas and perspectives. After attending a talk given by Nancy, journalist Stef is very keen to include her story in her upcoming book. Stef is captivated by Nancy and wants to find out more.
The relationship between Nancy and Stef starts off understandably very guarded. Nancy does not want her secret to be exposed and is worried that by sharing her story with Stef this will happen. Their bond does strengthen as Nancy slowly opens up. I really loved the relationship between Nancy and Stef and how it grew slowly but steadily. I loved how Nancy saw Stef as the one person she could finally open up to, after so many years. Their friendship was beautiful, built on trust, mutual understanding, and a shared commitment to uncover long-buried truths.
This is an extraordinary book, highlighting the enormous challenges and fight that women had in pursuing careers in science and overcoming barriers to become scientists in a male dominated field. I was fascinated by the actual work that was being undertaken and have since read a lot about DDT and its significant and devastating environmental impact. I will continue to read more as The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge has had such an impact on me and I am constantly thinking about the novel.
The book explores the many difficulties women encountered, from unfair wages and lack of acknowledgment to the obstacles that slowed their progress in male-dominated professions. But it also highlights the resilience of women, fighting for the respect and opportunities that they (and the future generations) so truly deserved. They had been denied them for far too long. They deserved accreditation for their work – Nancy struggled to receive credit for her vital contributions, with her work frequently overlooked or attributed to male colleagues. This is so unfair and totally wrong, robbing Nancy of the recognition and opportunities she rightfully deserved.
This is an incredibly written book, which has been deeply researched. A captivating story of long-buried secrets, inner strength, and the quest for truth. And some romance too!
This is a truly special book and an unforgettable five-star read. Thank you! The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge is my favourite book by Rachel Hore.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster UK for my advanced copy. This review is based on a NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
May 31, 2025
‘The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge’ is the latest book from the pen of best-selling novelist, Rachel Hore. The story is written in the third person and the past tense.
We meet Stef Lansdown, a freelance journalist, in 2010 when she is researching material for a
new book about women scientists. Stef’s mother, Cara, has moved to the village of Hickston in Norfolk. Whilst living in the village, Cara has met Dr Nancy Foster, a naturalist and teacher who lives in a damp cottage on a local nature reserve. Cara thinks interviewing Nancy would help Stef’s research but Nancy is initially reluctant to divulge any personal information. A change of heart after a distressing incident, allows Stef to gain Nancy’s trust and the action then switches between 2010 and the late-1940s and early-50s as Nancy’s tale is gradually revealed.
A huge amount of homework has been done by the author to enable Nancy to undertake extensive research into locusts. Struggles of the past are also highlighted, when women had to fight to be taken seriously and were rarely treated equal to men; either not getting the same opportunities or receiving lower salaries whilst performing the same roles. We sympathise with Nancy as she finds herself facing huge obstacles and share her frustration with the unfairness of the situation in the post-war years.
The sentences are well constructed but a lot of the text doesn’t really move the story along at a pace with which I was comfortable. Description outweighs dialogue and the plot almost gets lost in padding; this is a shame because there are some intriguing sections in Nancy’s story, which will be lost on readers if they don’t persevere beyond the first eleven chapters.
Those who enjoy this author’s writing style will no doubt be very happy with all the minutiae but I found my concentration wavering when we had reached almost a quarter of the way through the 466 page story before Nancy agreed to unpack her past life experiences to Stef. However, I believe I had an advanced proof copy, so it might well be that swingeing cuts will made before the final version is released.
The characters are well-conceived and multi-faceted but I found the formulaic romance angle predictable with the conclusion inevitable. Whilst it fits in well with the emotional tone of the tale, the impact of the story would work just as well without it. Equally, when an element of menace looked like it might potentially develop into something dark and threatening, it turned into a bit of a damp squib. Possibly that too didn’t survive the final edit.
Whilst I found this book excessively detailed, I can fully appreciate that it will appeal to this author’s many fans. On the assumption some of the long-winded segments will be removed or reduced prior to publication, I objectively award four stars.
We meet Stef Lansdown, a freelance journalist, in 2010 when she is researching material for a
new book about women scientists. Stef’s mother, Cara, has moved to the village of Hickston in Norfolk. Whilst living in the village, Cara has met Dr Nancy Foster, a naturalist and teacher who lives in a damp cottage on a local nature reserve. Cara thinks interviewing Nancy would help Stef’s research but Nancy is initially reluctant to divulge any personal information. A change of heart after a distressing incident, allows Stef to gain Nancy’s trust and the action then switches between 2010 and the late-1940s and early-50s as Nancy’s tale is gradually revealed.
A huge amount of homework has been done by the author to enable Nancy to undertake extensive research into locusts. Struggles of the past are also highlighted, when women had to fight to be taken seriously and were rarely treated equal to men; either not getting the same opportunities or receiving lower salaries whilst performing the same roles. We sympathise with Nancy as she finds herself facing huge obstacles and share her frustration with the unfairness of the situation in the post-war years.
The sentences are well constructed but a lot of the text doesn’t really move the story along at a pace with which I was comfortable. Description outweighs dialogue and the plot almost gets lost in padding; this is a shame because there are some intriguing sections in Nancy’s story, which will be lost on readers if they don’t persevere beyond the first eleven chapters.
Those who enjoy this author’s writing style will no doubt be very happy with all the minutiae but I found my concentration wavering when we had reached almost a quarter of the way through the 466 page story before Nancy agreed to unpack her past life experiences to Stef. However, I believe I had an advanced proof copy, so it might well be that swingeing cuts will made before the final version is released.
The characters are well-conceived and multi-faceted but I found the formulaic romance angle predictable with the conclusion inevitable. Whilst it fits in well with the emotional tone of the tale, the impact of the story would work just as well without it. Equally, when an element of menace looked like it might potentially develop into something dark and threatening, it turned into a bit of a damp squib. Possibly that too didn’t survive the final edit.
Whilst I found this book excessively detailed, I can fully appreciate that it will appeal to this author’s many fans. On the assumption some of the long-winded segments will be removed or reduced prior to publication, I objectively award four stars.
July 29, 2025
When journalist Stef Lansdown decides that her next project will be setting the record straight when it comes to the way the research of female scientists has been historically side-lined, or worse, she could not have foreseen how her own life would change in the process...
Fate brings Stef into contact with Dr Nancy Foster, who lives alone on a nature reserve on the Norfolk Broads, in ramshackle Dragonfly Lodge. As Stef strikes up a friendship with this elderly woman, she begins to realise that Nancy is an ideal candidate as a subject for her book - if only she can persuade Nancy to reveal the devastating secrets she has kept about her life and work.
But persuading Nancy to trust her is not going to be easy when someone is determined to keep the truth hidden, and Nancy's protective grandson, Aaron, is suspicious of Stef's motives.
Set in the beautiful Norfolk countryside, Rachel Hore's compelling new novel delves into the shocking history of the treatment of female scientists in post-war Britain, and is inspired by the very real experiences of her own mother and aunt in the late 1940s.
The story unfurls through the eyes of Stef in 2010, as she gets to know Nancy (and her grandson Aaron); and through flashbacks to Nancy's life, which she gradually reveals over the course of the book, once she knows she can trust Stef with the truth. The book is dominated with jaw-dropping detail about how Nancy's personal and professional lives were derailed by patriarchal manipulation, sexual discrimination, and the misjudged motives of others. It paints an authentic picture of time and place, with powerful themes of post-war attitudes; the conflicting demands of marriage, motherhood, and career; and the factual stories of women who were treated just like Nancy - all of which leaves a profoundly bitter taste in the mouth,
In the present, Hore weaves in lovely threads about friendship, family, failed relationships, love, marriage, and community, and a gentle romance for Stef, all of which nicely echo many of the themes from Nancy's life. There is the grit of a sinister mystery about threatening letters, and an examination of corporate influence in scientific research too, which fill out an already hard-hitting novel. But, for all its thought-provoking substance, this is not a book without hope. I very much enjoyed the way Hore brings everything to an uplifting close, and her nature writing is lovely.
I consumed the 480 page heft of this compelling novel in a single sitting, which says a lot for how Rachel Hore can utterly absorb you with her writing. Highly recommended, especially if you love a book that shines a light on the untold history of women.
Fate brings Stef into contact with Dr Nancy Foster, who lives alone on a nature reserve on the Norfolk Broads, in ramshackle Dragonfly Lodge. As Stef strikes up a friendship with this elderly woman, she begins to realise that Nancy is an ideal candidate as a subject for her book - if only she can persuade Nancy to reveal the devastating secrets she has kept about her life and work.
But persuading Nancy to trust her is not going to be easy when someone is determined to keep the truth hidden, and Nancy's protective grandson, Aaron, is suspicious of Stef's motives.
Set in the beautiful Norfolk countryside, Rachel Hore's compelling new novel delves into the shocking history of the treatment of female scientists in post-war Britain, and is inspired by the very real experiences of her own mother and aunt in the late 1940s.
The story unfurls through the eyes of Stef in 2010, as she gets to know Nancy (and her grandson Aaron); and through flashbacks to Nancy's life, which she gradually reveals over the course of the book, once she knows she can trust Stef with the truth. The book is dominated with jaw-dropping detail about how Nancy's personal and professional lives were derailed by patriarchal manipulation, sexual discrimination, and the misjudged motives of others. It paints an authentic picture of time and place, with powerful themes of post-war attitudes; the conflicting demands of marriage, motherhood, and career; and the factual stories of women who were treated just like Nancy - all of which leaves a profoundly bitter taste in the mouth,
In the present, Hore weaves in lovely threads about friendship, family, failed relationships, love, marriage, and community, and a gentle romance for Stef, all of which nicely echo many of the themes from Nancy's life. There is the grit of a sinister mystery about threatening letters, and an examination of corporate influence in scientific research too, which fill out an already hard-hitting novel. But, for all its thought-provoking substance, this is not a book without hope. I very much enjoyed the way Hore brings everything to an uplifting close, and her nature writing is lovely.
I consumed the 480 page heft of this compelling novel in a single sitting, which says a lot for how Rachel Hore can utterly absorb you with her writing. Highly recommended, especially if you love a book that shines a light on the untold history of women.
July 31, 2025
A freelance journalist, Stef is also a frustrated author – her first book wasn’t received as favourably as she’d hoped, but she now has plans for her next, featuring the lives of women scientists. During a stay in Norfolk with her mother, she is introduced to Nancy – who formerly worked in the zoology field, is now in her 80s, and who she feels might have a story to tell. At first, her approach is rejected – and Nancy’s visiting son Aaron is particularly fierce in protecting her – but she slowly wins her trust and her agreement to share her experiences. Living in an isolated – and rather neglected – cottage on a nature reserve, she now lives a simple and solitary life, caring for animals who need her intervention in her garden shed. And there are those who no longer want her there, making her life rather less comfortable than she wants it to be.
But she goes ahead with sharing her story – to tell Stef more about what it was like to be a woman at that time trying to make a name for herself in a scientific world dominated by men, but also gradually revealing her personal story. In childhood, there was that first chemistry set from Aunt Rhoda – then her decision to study zoology at Prince’s College in Kensington in the late 1940s, when they were rebuilding the department after the war and willing to offer opportunities for women. To some extent, hers is a coming of age story at first – mixing with the opposite sex for the first time, forming friendships and relationships – but it becomes a story of prejudice, inequality of treatment, and ultimately others (men, of course) taking credit for her work. She also becomes involved in particularly controversial work with a chemicals firm, in a time when their agricultural use was believed to be needed – but it turned out there were other, much more personal and emotional, secrets that ultimately ended her research career, and saw her becoming a teacher for the rest of her working life.
The bond that develops between the two women is particularly touching, and something I really enjoyed. As Nancy’s story unfolds, her son Aaron softens in his opposition to her telling her story – and, with Stef newly single, there are also the beginnings of a possible (very believable) romance. And they do need to work together to protect Nancy from those who might want her to move on – with some particularly well-written drama along the way. But there are also other aspects to the present day story punctuating Nancy’s storytelling, providing many of the lighter moments – notably Stef’s mother and her constant concerns about her love life, and her rather over-dramatic sister seeking refuge from a failing marriage.
I very much enjoyed both timelines – although Nancy’s back story was perhaps the more compelling. This was a substantial book – 480 pages, and I’ll readily admit that I thought that might be overlong – but I really was entirely engaged by both women’s stories throughout and consumed it in a couple of sittings. The pacing is perfect, the descriptions of the atmospheric Norfolk setting quite stunning, and Nancy’s voice in telling her story – in third person, but very much from her perspective – exceptionally engaging. As you might expect, there’s a substantial amount of scientific detail, but I found it both fascinating and easy to understand – while becoming increasingly angry about her experiences, because she was an individual I really took to my heart.
This was a book I very much enjoyed – and having rediscovered the author’s wonderful storytelling once more, I’m looking forward very much to seeing what she does next.
But she goes ahead with sharing her story – to tell Stef more about what it was like to be a woman at that time trying to make a name for herself in a scientific world dominated by men, but also gradually revealing her personal story. In childhood, there was that first chemistry set from Aunt Rhoda – then her decision to study zoology at Prince’s College in Kensington in the late 1940s, when they were rebuilding the department after the war and willing to offer opportunities for women. To some extent, hers is a coming of age story at first – mixing with the opposite sex for the first time, forming friendships and relationships – but it becomes a story of prejudice, inequality of treatment, and ultimately others (men, of course) taking credit for her work. She also becomes involved in particularly controversial work with a chemicals firm, in a time when their agricultural use was believed to be needed – but it turned out there were other, much more personal and emotional, secrets that ultimately ended her research career, and saw her becoming a teacher for the rest of her working life.
The bond that develops between the two women is particularly touching, and something I really enjoyed. As Nancy’s story unfolds, her son Aaron softens in his opposition to her telling her story – and, with Stef newly single, there are also the beginnings of a possible (very believable) romance. And they do need to work together to protect Nancy from those who might want her to move on – with some particularly well-written drama along the way. But there are also other aspects to the present day story punctuating Nancy’s storytelling, providing many of the lighter moments – notably Stef’s mother and her constant concerns about her love life, and her rather over-dramatic sister seeking refuge from a failing marriage.
I very much enjoyed both timelines – although Nancy’s back story was perhaps the more compelling. This was a substantial book – 480 pages, and I’ll readily admit that I thought that might be overlong – but I really was entirely engaged by both women’s stories throughout and consumed it in a couple of sittings. The pacing is perfect, the descriptions of the atmospheric Norfolk setting quite stunning, and Nancy’s voice in telling her story – in third person, but very much from her perspective – exceptionally engaging. As you might expect, there’s a substantial amount of scientific detail, but I found it both fascinating and easy to understand – while becoming increasingly angry about her experiences, because she was an individual I really took to my heart.
This was a book I very much enjoyed – and having rediscovered the author’s wonderful storytelling once more, I’m looking forward very much to seeing what she does next.
February 14, 2025
I found this book a curious paradox. On the one hand it theoretically explores the limits women are placed under, and some of the ways they can challenge these, but on the other is filled with a vocabulary, phrasing and concepts that confirm and emphasise those limits. The writing is also loaded with numerous obvious cliches, which read, to me at least, as if the author has been informed by old romance novels, which I found off-putting. It is also unnecessarily long, and would have been a more impactful and enjoyable read if it had been more concise. The length felt self indulgent and to contain many unnecessary details that added nothing. The story Nancy relates to Stef is presented as if it’s a novel in itself, interspersed with the present narrative, rather than the relating of events one person might share with another, which is how it’s theoretically offered.
Nancy is repeatedly referred to by Stef as ‘the old lady’ which was an artifice I found irritating and divisive, without serving any useful purpose other than to contradict her supposing genuine interest in her, and the commonality between them. I found the writing overall to be dated. I was tempted to give up several times, but did persevere in the hope that it would get into its stride. I got slightly more engaged as it went on, but not to the degree I wanted to know how it would play out, because that was predictable on all scores.
I was thrown by the dates of events as I wrongly assumed a novel published in 2025 would be set at the same time, until I realised it was 2010, at which point that made sense, though I was a little puzzled as to the reason for the 15 year gap.
There has clearly been a considerable amount of research into the scientific background, but the bigotry and misogyny which is emphasised with good cause is partly lost in the diminishing of the main female characters and their priorities in the writing,.
I apologise if this review seems unkind, but as reviewers are asked to give an honest review anything else would be false. I haven’t read any of the authors previous books, and from reviews I seem to be in the minority, so perhaps we’re just not a good match. I’m not really a romance novel type of girl, maybe that’s why.
Nancy is repeatedly referred to by Stef as ‘the old lady’ which was an artifice I found irritating and divisive, without serving any useful purpose other than to contradict her supposing genuine interest in her, and the commonality between them. I found the writing overall to be dated. I was tempted to give up several times, but did persevere in the hope that it would get into its stride. I got slightly more engaged as it went on, but not to the degree I wanted to know how it would play out, because that was predictable on all scores.
I was thrown by the dates of events as I wrongly assumed a novel published in 2025 would be set at the same time, until I realised it was 2010, at which point that made sense, though I was a little puzzled as to the reason for the 15 year gap.
There has clearly been a considerable amount of research into the scientific background, but the bigotry and misogyny which is emphasised with good cause is partly lost in the diminishing of the main female characters and their priorities in the writing,.
I apologise if this review seems unkind, but as reviewers are asked to give an honest review anything else would be false. I haven’t read any of the authors previous books, and from reviews I seem to be in the minority, so perhaps we’re just not a good match. I’m not really a romance novel type of girl, maybe that’s why.
April 23, 2025
This was a wonderfully absorbing read, that had me hooked to both timelines! Full of fascinating characters and exploring how the attitudes of the past hindered women.
Set in post war London, and in Norfolk in 2010, we meet 2 women who are bought together to share a story that has had devastating consequences. And there seems to be people out to stop the story being shared altogether so you're left wondering what have they got to hide.
Nancy is a retired scientist who lives a very quiet life in Norfolk on the edge of nature reserve - already she has my interest as to why she's happy to withdraw from life. Stef is a journalist who is researching women of the past, and uncovers the story of Nancy so wants to learn more about her and share her story - of which Nancy isn't keen and is still very wary and unable to trust those from outside. But the more time she spends with Steph, the more she sees she is able to trust her and that's when we learn about her career as a scientist, and the struggles she had being accepted as a female scientist.
I loved the backstories in this book. There's so much to delve into, especially with looking back over Nancy's life that you get really involved and really get to understand why she's so unwilling to trust - she's been wronged in the past and that's very difficult for her to shake off. Stef is just the write kind of person to delve into her life and is so understanding and rightly outraged at what Nancy had been through.
A great look back into the issues of the past that faced many women who were trying to pursue their own career in a male dominated world. Highly recommended!
Set in post war London, and in Norfolk in 2010, we meet 2 women who are bought together to share a story that has had devastating consequences. And there seems to be people out to stop the story being shared altogether so you're left wondering what have they got to hide.
Nancy is a retired scientist who lives a very quiet life in Norfolk on the edge of nature reserve - already she has my interest as to why she's happy to withdraw from life. Stef is a journalist who is researching women of the past, and uncovers the story of Nancy so wants to learn more about her and share her story - of which Nancy isn't keen and is still very wary and unable to trust those from outside. But the more time she spends with Steph, the more she sees she is able to trust her and that's when we learn about her career as a scientist, and the struggles she had being accepted as a female scientist.
I loved the backstories in this book. There's so much to delve into, especially with looking back over Nancy's life that you get really involved and really get to understand why she's so unwilling to trust - she's been wronged in the past and that's very difficult for her to shake off. Stef is just the write kind of person to delve into her life and is so understanding and rightly outraged at what Nancy had been through.
A great look back into the issues of the past that faced many women who were trying to pursue their own career in a male dominated world. Highly recommended!
June 6, 2025
Thank you @netgalley and @simonschusteruk for sending me this eArc to read and review before it's release next month. This book is due to be published 29th July 2025.
Let me start by saying four days! That is what it took for me to finish this book and what a book it is.
This book got me from the very start. The book is set in two timeslines Britain in the 1940/50's and then the 2000's and the shift between the two timelines is seamless.
We meet Stef, a thirty something freelance writer who has pitched a book about the work of women in science. Her mother has happened across a Dr in zoology during her recent move to the Norfolk broads and has invited Stef to stay with her to attend one of Dr Nancy Fosters talks.
Initially closed off to the idea of sharing the story of her time in university and the struggles she comes up against, she decides that maybe it's time to share her experience.
What follows is a story of hardship, of constant blockers from the men within her field of study but also determination, of justice and of truth. Whilst Nancy is sharing all of the up and downs that came with being a woman of science, we see Stef make some discoveries of her own as she navigates the ever changing landscape of her family, new relationships and finding love.
This book is a beautiful celebration of all that women have achieved but also a stark reminder that there was such a difference in how women were viewed, in how they were treated and that unless their names were attached to a male counterpart, their voice was just lost.
A solid 4 ⭐️ from me!
Let me start by saying four days! That is what it took for me to finish this book and what a book it is.
This book got me from the very start. The book is set in two timeslines Britain in the 1940/50's and then the 2000's and the shift between the two timelines is seamless.
We meet Stef, a thirty something freelance writer who has pitched a book about the work of women in science. Her mother has happened across a Dr in zoology during her recent move to the Norfolk broads and has invited Stef to stay with her to attend one of Dr Nancy Fosters talks.
Initially closed off to the idea of sharing the story of her time in university and the struggles she comes up against, she decides that maybe it's time to share her experience.
What follows is a story of hardship, of constant blockers from the men within her field of study but also determination, of justice and of truth. Whilst Nancy is sharing all of the up and downs that came with being a woman of science, we see Stef make some discoveries of her own as she navigates the ever changing landscape of her family, new relationships and finding love.
This book is a beautiful celebration of all that women have achieved but also a stark reminder that there was such a difference in how women were viewed, in how they were treated and that unless their names were attached to a male counterpart, their voice was just lost.
A solid 4 ⭐️ from me!
June 10, 2025
The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge Rachel Hore
5 stars
Another beautiful story
I have read a lot of Rachel Hore's books and have always enjoyed them. She writes a beautiful story which I was immediately drawn into with believable characters.
Stef Lansdowne is a author trying to earn a living and her current project is talking about women in science and the problems that they face especially in the past. When she visits her mother, who is living on the Norfolk broads she is introduced to an elderly lady, Dr Nancy Foster who is living in the house of the title of this book.
Stef discovers that Nancy is exactly the type of person that she needs in her book but Nancy is adamant that she does not want her story made public. However after she injures her ankle and is confined to her house, Stef comes to help her and Nancy finds herself opening up.
The story switches between Nancy's career in the early 1950's and Stef's story currently and the blossoming relationship between her and Nancy's grandson Aaron. As Nancy describes her early career as a researcher in science in particular locusts, it soon becomes apparent how women were treated in those days. Despite Nancy's superior intellect to most of her male colleagues she is treated as a second-class citizen on less pay and much less attention.
As always this book is filled with some wonderful descriptive prose about the setting of the book, in this case the Norfolk Broads, as well as telling a very interesting and thought provoking story.
Karen Deborah
Reviewer for Net Galley
5 stars
Another beautiful story
I have read a lot of Rachel Hore's books and have always enjoyed them. She writes a beautiful story which I was immediately drawn into with believable characters.
Stef Lansdowne is a author trying to earn a living and her current project is talking about women in science and the problems that they face especially in the past. When she visits her mother, who is living on the Norfolk broads she is introduced to an elderly lady, Dr Nancy Foster who is living in the house of the title of this book.
Stef discovers that Nancy is exactly the type of person that she needs in her book but Nancy is adamant that she does not want her story made public. However after she injures her ankle and is confined to her house, Stef comes to help her and Nancy finds herself opening up.
The story switches between Nancy's career in the early 1950's and Stef's story currently and the blossoming relationship between her and Nancy's grandson Aaron. As Nancy describes her early career as a researcher in science in particular locusts, it soon becomes apparent how women were treated in those days. Despite Nancy's superior intellect to most of her male colleagues she is treated as a second-class citizen on less pay and much less attention.
As always this book is filled with some wonderful descriptive prose about the setting of the book, in this case the Norfolk Broads, as well as telling a very interesting and thought provoking story.
Karen Deborah
Reviewer for Net Galley
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