Fields of Blue Flax

by Sue Lawrence

This debut from a renowned Scottish food writer is the story of an innocent interest in family history that uncovers long-buried, dark family secrets Cousins Mags and Christine are complete opposites, one conventional and the other bohemian. As family life with husbands and children intertwine, their joint research into the family history uncovers a forgotten relative, Elizabeth Barrie, born in the late 19th century in the north east village of Tannadice. Elizabeth’s origins aren’t what they appear to be, and in fact hide a shocking scandal at the very heart of a prominent, "respectable" family. Unprepared for what they will find about their relative, the truth at the heart of Elizabeth’s story mirrors the cousins’ own equally dysfunctional family lives. Both Mags and Christine find out in different ways that uncovering a family’s past can have unexpected and revocable consequences for those living in the present.

288 pages, Paperback

First published May 4, 2015

Reviews

[Cerys · Rating 3 out of 5]

This had the makings of a good book. The premise was great, cousins exploring their family history in the present day, told in tandem with the story of their great grandmother in the 1860s & 70s. But, the use of the same property in both time periods, with apparently no connection worried me, I kept expecting a great reveal which didn't come & the actual great reveal was far too obvious. The conclusion of the book was a bit of a let-down and not really necessary.

[Lorna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The chapters were short with lots of dialogue and I liked the way that the historical timeline went backwards, in the same way that you would research your own family history.
Some parts were a bit predictable but still enjoyable. I was disappointed by the ending but overall it was a good read and I would have no problems recommending it.

[Annette Smith · Rating 1 out of 5]

What a disappointment.

[MISS M L BARKER · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book

A very good book but there seems to be an error in the middle of the book. This should not ruin the reading though.

[Alison Hood · Rating 1 out of 5]

Never judge a book by its cover - this applies to this book. The back cover made it sound like a good choice. Sadly it didn't meet expectations. I didn't finish it as it was stilted and obvious.