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The Snow Globe
A beautiful story of enduring love and heartbreaking choices.
As Christmas 1926 approaches, the Forbes family are preparing to host a celebration at Eden Hall. Eighteen-year-old Daisy is preoccupied by a sense of change in the air. Overnight, her relationship with Stephen Jessop, the housekeeper’s son, has shifted and every encounter seems fraught with tension. Before the festivities are over, Daisy has received a declaration of love, a proposal and a kiss – from three different men. Unable to bear the confusion she flees to London and stays with her elder sister.
By the following summer, Daisy has bowed to the persistence of the man who proposed to her the previous year. When the family reunite for a party at Eden Hall and Stephen is once more in her life, it is clear to Daisy she is committing to the wrong person. Yet she also believes that family secrets mean she has no choice but to follow her head instead of her heart. Will love conquer all, or is Daisy’s fate already written?
Praise for The Snow Globe‘Kinghorn's novel paints a vivid portrait of love and its perplexing complications… Historical fiction fans will not want to miss this gem’ Renée Rosen
‘An absolutely delicious book… the period is beautifully observed, and we are expertly drawn into a suspenseful blend of tangled relationships and shocking discoveries. Daisy's coming of age in the 'brave new world' of post-war England had me holding my breath. Elegant and evocative to the last word.’ Elizabeth Cooke
Judith Kinghorn is the author of four novels: The Echo of Twilight, The Snow Globe, The Memory of Lost Senses and The Last Summer. She was born in Northumberland, educated in the Lake District, and is a graduate in English and History of Art. She lives in Hampshire, England, with her husband and two children.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2015
44 people are currently reading
1531 people want to read
About the author
Judith Kinghorn
7 books203 followersJudith Kinghorn is the author of four novels. Her acclaimed début The Last Summer was published in the UK, Canada and British Commonwealth countries in 2012, in the USA in 2013, and has been translated to languages including German, Spanish, French and Italian. Her subsequent novels include The Memory of Lost Senses (2013), The Snow Globe (2015) and The Echo of Twilight (2017).
To follow Judith on social media or to find out more, please click https://linktr.ee/JudithKinghorn
To follow Judith on social media or to find out more, please click https://linktr.ee/JudithKinghorn
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
September 4, 2017
The Snow Globe by Judith Kinghorn is set in 1926. Daisy is 17 years old and longs to be grown up with husband of her own. She is then dismayed to hear about her beloved fathers infidelity. This is a story about the ups and downs for family life. There are some good characters in this book and it definitely gave a flavour of life for women in the 1920's. I would like to thank NetGally and the publisher Canelo for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
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October 2, 2017Today I'm taking part in the Blog Tour for Canelo - The Snow Globe....
Why not Come take a look at My Blog Spotlight for The Snow Globe:
http://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/10...
Why not Come take a look at My Blog Spotlight for The Snow Globe:
http://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2017/10...
October 4, 2017
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Just like a snow globe is encased in glass then put on display for us all to admire and look at, 18 year old Daisy Forbes is feeling much the same way.
Christmas 1926, the elegant Forbes family are enjoying the festive time at their home, Eden Hall. Daisy is the youngest child of Mabel and Howard and has always been a daddy’s girl, but now he has broken her heart. Daisy discovers that he has been living a separate life in London with his lover, who just happens to be spending Christmas with the family.
He has destroyed all faith she had in him, and now Stephen, the young man that she deeply loves has announced that he is leaving to begin a new life abroad. Daisy’s life is in turmoil, made harder by the fact that three men are vying for her attention, and her hand in marriage. She does the only thing she knows she can do, she ups and leaves, heading to London.
The Snow Globe is a historical family drama set in a time when the country is recovered from the destruction of WWI, and a sense of newness is emerging.
The characters have all been carefully thought out, and their stories play out beautifully, flowing naturally with one another. Daisy is a young woman who is just becoming an adult and realising that being a grown up is not easy. Along with her mother, Mabel, these two women make the book exceptionally special.
As I was reading along I suddenly realised that the story had become exceptionally visual in my mind, and the images formed were very Downtown Abby-Esq. I had a real sense of satisfaction whilst reading the book as it truly captured my imagination.
I haven’t read any of Judith’s earlier work, and I’m not always a fan of historical fiction, but this book just made me want to keep reading, it engaged me with the emotions that the family were feeling and had me eager to see how the story would end.
Ms. Kinghorn has a true gift for creating compulsive and page-turning fiction. I will certainly be looking out for more of her work in the future.
Just like a snow globe is encased in glass then put on display for us all to admire and look at, 18 year old Daisy Forbes is feeling much the same way.
Christmas 1926, the elegant Forbes family are enjoying the festive time at their home, Eden Hall. Daisy is the youngest child of Mabel and Howard and has always been a daddy’s girl, but now he has broken her heart. Daisy discovers that he has been living a separate life in London with his lover, who just happens to be spending Christmas with the family.
He has destroyed all faith she had in him, and now Stephen, the young man that she deeply loves has announced that he is leaving to begin a new life abroad. Daisy’s life is in turmoil, made harder by the fact that three men are vying for her attention, and her hand in marriage. She does the only thing she knows she can do, she ups and leaves, heading to London.
The Snow Globe is a historical family drama set in a time when the country is recovered from the destruction of WWI, and a sense of newness is emerging.
The characters have all been carefully thought out, and their stories play out beautifully, flowing naturally with one another. Daisy is a young woman who is just becoming an adult and realising that being a grown up is not easy. Along with her mother, Mabel, these two women make the book exceptionally special.
As I was reading along I suddenly realised that the story had become exceptionally visual in my mind, and the images formed were very Downtown Abby-Esq. I had a real sense of satisfaction whilst reading the book as it truly captured my imagination.
I haven’t read any of Judith’s earlier work, and I’m not always a fan of historical fiction, but this book just made me want to keep reading, it engaged me with the emotions that the family were feeling and had me eager to see how the story would end.
Ms. Kinghorn has a true gift for creating compulsive and page-turning fiction. I will certainly be looking out for more of her work in the future.
June 14, 2023
" Тайните неизменно са неща, от които човек се срамува, независимо дали за себе си или за друг. "
1927 година. Изглежда толкова назад от днес. А тогава е било " зората на нов век. Време бурно и драматично. В The Snow Globe се срещаме със съдбата на богато индустриално семейство, което, въпреки външия си блясък и сплотеност, преживява личната си драма. Но така е било тогава, така е и сега. На много места пропуснато общуване, пренебрегнато внимание и странични забежки от рутината объркват отношенията и предизвикват зов за промяна. За добро или зло понякога да се отдалечим от познатото, от ежедневното и от присъствието ни до близките ни хора, може да е най- доброто решение.
Какво се случва после? Това зависи как е започнала една връзка. Колко сме получили и колко сме вложили в нея. И дали погледът отдалеч на нещата ще ни покаже собствените ни пропуски и щастието, което ще ни липсва.
За семейство Форбс 1927 година ще се окаже решаваща на фона на промените в Англия и в света - , " ...смъртта на една кралица и императрица и войната; и автомобили, и самолети, и телефони; грамофона и безжичната връзка. " И дори тогава никой да не си е представял какво още може да бъде променено и изобретено, днес ние виждаме как все още се появяват нови неща в света и как се случват неочаквани събития. А те се отразяват на собствения ни живот.
„Светът се променя и предполагам, че когато има промяна, човек се връща у дома. . . към стабилността."
1927 година. Изглежда толкова назад от днес. А тогава е било " зората на нов век. Време бурно и драматично. В The Snow Globe се срещаме със съдбата на богато индустриално семейство, което, въпреки външия си блясък и сплотеност, преживява личната си драма. Но така е било тогава, така е и сега. На много места пропуснато общуване, пренебрегнато внимание и странични забежки от рутината объркват отношенията и предизвикват зов за промяна. За добро или зло понякога да се отдалечим от познатото, от ежедневното и от присъствието ни до близките ни хора, може да е най- доброто решение.
Какво се случва после? Това зависи как е започнала една връзка. Колко сме получили и колко сме вложили в нея. И дали погледът отдалеч на нещата ще ни покаже собствените ни пропуски и щастието, което ще ни липсва.
За семейство Форбс 1927 година ще се окаже решаваща на фона на промените в Англия и в света - , " ...смъртта на една кралица и императрица и войната; и автомобили, и самолети, и телефони; грамофона и безжичната връзка. " И дори тогава никой да не си е представял какво още може да бъде променено и изобретено, днес ние виждаме как все още се появяват нови неща в света и как се случват неочаквани събития. А те се отразяват на собствения ни живот.
„Светът се променя и предполагам, че когато има промяна, човек се връща у дома. . . към стабилността."
March 28, 2015
I was given this book from a Goodreads First Reads giveaway.
******
WELL. I was pleasantly surprised with this one. I normally don't read historical fiction so I was a little out of my element reading this book. However, I'm glad I received it because I actually genuinely enjoyed it.
THE WRITING: Absolutely stunning. It flowed so nicely. The descriptions were perfect and it never failed to bring you into the setting of 1920's England.
THE PLOT: SO GOOD. I felt giddy reading it. It had that ability to suck you into the story so much that it felt like real life. I loved the way there was a different storyline for each of these women that we were following. The feminism in this was great too (not sure if it was intentional or not, but it was fantastic). The plot twists did not fail to surprise me and as each secret was revealed, the story became more and more riveting.
THE CHARACTERS: Realistic. Totally realistic. This woman has a talent for creating characters. They were each so unique and had unique voices to go along with them. My favorites were Iris and Valentine because I felt that I related to them the most, though Daisy was a good MC too. Daisy fortunately did not take on the role of a "Mary-sue" MC and remained a strong woman throughout the book.
CRITICISM: It was difficult for me to keep track of who's who for the first 100 pages since there were so many characters with individual stories (but that's probably my fault, not the author's). I'd also say it took a while to get into in the beginning and some parts were a little slow, but other than that I don't have much criticism at all.
WOULD I RECOMMEND?: Yes, for historical fiction fans or lovers of romance, I would absolutely recommend this. And even for people like me who don't really read much of either of those genres since I surprisingly liked it so much.
FINAL VERDICT: I think this should be made into a tv show. It reminded me of BBC's The Paradise and I think it would make a wonderful series. Also, I might just give Kinghorn's other books a try. This was a great read and I think it deserves a lot of hype from the historical fiction fans.
******
WELL. I was pleasantly surprised with this one. I normally don't read historical fiction so I was a little out of my element reading this book. However, I'm glad I received it because I actually genuinely enjoyed it.
THE WRITING: Absolutely stunning. It flowed so nicely. The descriptions were perfect and it never failed to bring you into the setting of 1920's England.
THE PLOT: SO GOOD. I felt giddy reading it. It had that ability to suck you into the story so much that it felt like real life. I loved the way there was a different storyline for each of these women that we were following. The feminism in this was great too (not sure if it was intentional or not, but it was fantastic). The plot twists did not fail to surprise me and as each secret was revealed, the story became more and more riveting.
THE CHARACTERS: Realistic. Totally realistic. This woman has a talent for creating characters. They were each so unique and had unique voices to go along with them. My favorites were Iris and Valentine because I felt that I related to them the most, though Daisy was a good MC too. Daisy fortunately did not take on the role of a "Mary-sue" MC and remained a strong woman throughout the book.
CRITICISM: It was difficult for me to keep track of who's who for the first 100 pages since there were so many characters with individual stories (but that's probably my fault, not the author's). I'd also say it took a while to get into in the beginning and some parts were a little slow, but other than that I don't have much criticism at all.
WOULD I RECOMMEND?: Yes, for historical fiction fans or lovers of romance, I would absolutely recommend this. And even for people like me who don't really read much of either of those genres since I surprisingly liked it so much.
FINAL VERDICT: I think this should be made into a tv show. It reminded me of BBC's The Paradise and I think it would make a wonderful series. Also, I might just give Kinghorn's other books a try. This was a great read and I think it deserves a lot of hype from the historical fiction fans.
April 18, 2017
I threw this one on my give up pile because it just wasn't grabbing me, I mean this is my kind of read, it sounded right up my alley but sadly it's just not holding my interest.
February 4, 2022
Inside her room, Daisy paced in circles. She’d been kissed. She’d been kissed at last, but not by the one she had wanted to kiss her. The one she wanted to kiss her said he loved her but seemed reluctant to kiss her. The one she didn’t want to kiss said he might love her and that he wanted to marry her. And the one she had kissed considered it a mistake.
It was Christmas 1926 and the residents of Eden Hall are preparing for another festive holiday. But this year, war still hangs heavy over everyone’s lives, the disappearance of famed mystery author Agatha Christie has the world gripped in intrigue, and eighteen-year-old Daisy Forbes’ heart is being torn apart by her feelings for her childhood friend, a few potential suitors, and a newly discovered secret about her adored father. As Christmas gives way to spring, the women of Eden Hall struggle to find their own voice, their own way, and their own sense of happiness and they’ll do all of these…even if it means leaving their beloved home behind.
I am a huge fan of the series Downton Abbey and so it’s no surprise that Kinghorn’s novel hit just the right chord with me. Full of conflicts without being overly dramatic and providing plenty of romance without being too schmaltzy, The Snow Globe shows us that the wealthy and well-to-do are not immune to such problems as betrayal, jealousy, pettiness, and all the other sins and shortcomings that make us human and fallible.
Although I always enjoy a good story showcasing the resilience of the human spirit and the power of overcoming impossible odds, there is also something to be said for a story that simply takes us back to a time and place where you could enjoy elevenses in front of a roaring fire in the family study or dance until dawn in the family garden while friends sip champagne under the moonlight. These little “reading retreats” of mine serve as an important reminder that there IS no place like home, that absence does indeed make the heart grow fonder, and that you shouldn’t stop making wishes on your snow globe because you never, ever know when one just might come true.
It was Christmas 1926 and the residents of Eden Hall are preparing for another festive holiday. But this year, war still hangs heavy over everyone’s lives, the disappearance of famed mystery author Agatha Christie has the world gripped in intrigue, and eighteen-year-old Daisy Forbes’ heart is being torn apart by her feelings for her childhood friend, a few potential suitors, and a newly discovered secret about her adored father. As Christmas gives way to spring, the women of Eden Hall struggle to find their own voice, their own way, and their own sense of happiness and they’ll do all of these…even if it means leaving their beloved home behind.
I am a huge fan of the series Downton Abbey and so it’s no surprise that Kinghorn’s novel hit just the right chord with me. Full of conflicts without being overly dramatic and providing plenty of romance without being too schmaltzy, The Snow Globe shows us that the wealthy and well-to-do are not immune to such problems as betrayal, jealousy, pettiness, and all the other sins and shortcomings that make us human and fallible.
Although I always enjoy a good story showcasing the resilience of the human spirit and the power of overcoming impossible odds, there is also something to be said for a story that simply takes us back to a time and place where you could enjoy elevenses in front of a roaring fire in the family study or dance until dawn in the family garden while friends sip champagne under the moonlight. These little “reading retreats” of mine serve as an important reminder that there IS no place like home, that absence does indeed make the heart grow fonder, and that you shouldn’t stop making wishes on your snow globe because you never, ever know when one just might come true.
May 1, 2015
I think this is my second Judith Kinghorn book, the first being “The Last Summer”, of which I awarded a rare 5-star rating. Unfortunately I can’t say the same for “The Snow Globe” – more like 2 1/2 - 3 stars, and I won’t bother to keep it to read again.
The plot was vanilla, or beige, if I liken it to a flavor or color. Definitely not very exciting nor compelling. The story surrounds Daisy, a young woman with two sisters and aristocratic parents. The setting is England in the 1920s. Daisy of course is the lovely youngest daughter and is sought out for marriage by three men. She discovers that her adored father has some secrets that bother her greatly; plus there may be more secret keepers among the staff at the family home of Eden Hall.
For me, it certainly was not a page-turner. Downton Abbey fans (of which I am one) would be the most interested readers of this story, but the plot and its characters are not even close to being in the same league. Basically, its when will Daisy find out the truth of the secret? Then, what will she do?
In the complexity of Regency love/relationships, this particular era really plays havoc with choices; do you marry for convenience, status, money, security, or The Big L: love. What will Daisy do once the big secret is revealed?
This grandmotherly advice from Noonie on pg. 330 was pretty awesome though: “ ‘Love never leaves us. It stays right here,’ she said, placing a hand to her chest. ‘And then, one day, the mist rises, everything falls into place, and its so easy to see, to understand, and one wishes one could run back through the years, back to that love.’” And there you have it: my favorite part of the book!
The plot was vanilla, or beige, if I liken it to a flavor or color. Definitely not very exciting nor compelling. The story surrounds Daisy, a young woman with two sisters and aristocratic parents. The setting is England in the 1920s. Daisy of course is the lovely youngest daughter and is sought out for marriage by three men. She discovers that her adored father has some secrets that bother her greatly; plus there may be more secret keepers among the staff at the family home of Eden Hall.
For me, it certainly was not a page-turner. Downton Abbey fans (of which I am one) would be the most interested readers of this story, but the plot and its characters are not even close to being in the same league. Basically, its when will Daisy find out the truth of the secret? Then, what will she do?
In the complexity of Regency love/relationships, this particular era really plays havoc with choices; do you marry for convenience, status, money, security, or The Big L: love. What will Daisy do once the big secret is revealed?
This grandmotherly advice from Noonie on pg. 330 was pretty awesome though: “ ‘Love never leaves us. It stays right here,’ she said, placing a hand to her chest. ‘And then, one day, the mist rises, everything falls into place, and its so easy to see, to understand, and one wishes one could run back through the years, back to that love.’” And there you have it: my favorite part of the book!
September 24, 2017
This is a sweeping family saga with Eden Hall at its core. Fans of Downton Abbey will adore the varying characters and their antics. I enjoyed reading about Agatha Christie's disappearance which I didn't know had happened in real life. A little googling and I learnt so much.
The heart of the book is really about secrets and the repercussions they have on everyone around you. The ricocheting effect that happens when the secrets are revealed and how everyone copes.
I really enjoyed Daisy as a character, some of the women had that delicate nature but it fitted in with the time so it was believable. Sometimes a lot of characters spoke at the same time about different subjects. I think perhaps the author enjoyed this sort of scene which of course happens in real life. But in a book, it becomes somewhat confusing.
Overall I did enjoy the book and I recommend it to everyone who loves a good family saga.
The heart of the book is really about secrets and the repercussions they have on everyone around you. The ricocheting effect that happens when the secrets are revealed and how everyone copes.
I really enjoyed Daisy as a character, some of the women had that delicate nature but it fitted in with the time so it was believable. Sometimes a lot of characters spoke at the same time about different subjects. I think perhaps the author enjoyed this sort of scene which of course happens in real life. But in a book, it becomes somewhat confusing.
Overall I did enjoy the book and I recommend it to everyone who loves a good family saga.
June 5, 2015
Flappers and philanderers, sisters and suitors, new motorcars and old money... Judith Kinghorn entertains her readers with a Jazz Age story of a young woman blossoming into adulthood.
To the outside world, Eden Hall is a beautiful English country estate owned by the Forbes family. But on the inside, the house is a whirlwind of emotions and family tumult. Daisy Forbes, the eighteen-year-old youngest daughter, unwittingly becomes the keeper of all the family's secret confidences. Her beloved father is staying with an old friend in London entirely too much. Her mother has become very friendly with a widower neighbor. And her flamboyant sister is engaging in behavior entirely inappropriate for a proper English lady.
All the while, Daisy has three handsome men rivaling for her affections! It's definitely going to be a holiday to remember when all the family gathers this year at Eden Hall.
Fans of "Upstairs, Downstairs" and "Downton Abbey" will delight in the quirky cast of characters, captivating British locations, and just the right amount of mystery, romance and humor to make this an enchanting novel.
*I received a copy of this book in a GoodReads First Reads giveaway.*
To the outside world, Eden Hall is a beautiful English country estate owned by the Forbes family. But on the inside, the house is a whirlwind of emotions and family tumult. Daisy Forbes, the eighteen-year-old youngest daughter, unwittingly becomes the keeper of all the family's secret confidences. Her beloved father is staying with an old friend in London entirely too much. Her mother has become very friendly with a widower neighbor. And her flamboyant sister is engaging in behavior entirely inappropriate for a proper English lady.
All the while, Daisy has three handsome men rivaling for her affections! It's definitely going to be a holiday to remember when all the family gathers this year at Eden Hall.
Fans of "Upstairs, Downstairs" and "Downton Abbey" will delight in the quirky cast of characters, captivating British locations, and just the right amount of mystery, romance and humor to make this an enchanting novel.
*I received a copy of this book in a GoodReads First Reads giveaway.*
February 2, 2015
I have been a great fan of Judith Kinghorn's two previous novels, The Last Summer and The Memory of Lost Senses, so I was delighted to receive a proof copy of The Snow Globe.
The novel begins at Christmas 1926 – an exciting time for Daisy, the youngest daughter of Mabel and Howard Forbes. But as the festivities begin at Eden Hall, the family home, she discovers that her beloved father is not what he had seemed to be and life will ever be the quite same again.
Ms Kinghorn explores the themes of coming of age, of love and loyalty with fine and broad brushstrokes, creating a world of intrigue within a strong family setting. Daisy is not the only one who has to make adjustments to her view of life… Their are other love stories interwoven, some from the past which have a huge impact on Daisy's present.
In The Snow Globe, the author recreates a very specific time between the wars with authority and treats her characters with humour, understanding and compassion.
An excellent read, beautifully written and perfectly plotted.
The novel begins at Christmas 1926 – an exciting time for Daisy, the youngest daughter of Mabel and Howard Forbes. But as the festivities begin at Eden Hall, the family home, she discovers that her beloved father is not what he had seemed to be and life will ever be the quite same again.
Ms Kinghorn explores the themes of coming of age, of love and loyalty with fine and broad brushstrokes, creating a world of intrigue within a strong family setting. Daisy is not the only one who has to make adjustments to her view of life… Their are other love stories interwoven, some from the past which have a huge impact on Daisy's present.
In The Snow Globe, the author recreates a very specific time between the wars with authority and treats her characters with humour, understanding and compassion.
An excellent read, beautifully written and perfectly plotted.
January 10, 2021
3,5⭐️
Schöne Familiengeschichte nur mit dem Schreibstil bin ich anfangs nicht ganz klar gekommen.
Schöne Familiengeschichte nur mit dem Schreibstil bin ich anfangs nicht ganz klar gekommen.
October 1, 2017
It is the mid 1920s, The Great War a memory but still being very much felt by the people who live at Eden Hall but for Daisy Forbes on the cusp of something her belief in the life she has had so far is about to be shattered.
It is Christmas, a time for family for being together and for sharing in traditions, such as the snow globe that comes out every year and is one of Daisy most precious items. However everything she knows is shaken up and settles very much in a different way, just like her snow globe. Can it all return to the way it was or a brighter future?
Upon overhearing from servants that her father has a mistress and then seeing her mother invite said mistress as a guest for the Christmas season, Daisy’s world and perception changes. She struggles to deal with such information and cannot understand how her mother puts up with such things and how even her older sisters seems fully aware of what is happening. Daisy is struggling to understand love and this is not helping her.
She turns to her friend, Stephen who she has known since childhood, but he has plans of his own and they may not include still being friends with Daisy as their positions in life suddenly become very different and their social gap could widen.
All the time she is being encouraged to settle down, to marry, not necessarily for love but perhaps for necessity. Dealing with kisses, proclamations of love and marriage proposals she does not know where to turn to seek the right advice. Her mother has gone travelling, her father she feels she cannot approach, her sisters either free spirits or already tied down with domesticity. What is the right way and if the globe is shaken once more the snow will settle exactly in the right place and then the answer will become clear. The questions she has been asking are making Daisy even more puzzled.
This is a book which encompasses the lives of those upstairs and downstairs in a big house, where people gather and it is described in such a cinematic way that you can see it easily being transferred to a screen. Of course it is very much Daisy’s story but I enjoyed her mother Mabel as she sets out to challenge convention and prove that love is worth fighting for.
There is something about historical fiction that I am drawn to, the chosen era reflecting the storyline as this book does. The characters having the same anxieties as those today, with twists and turns as life takes us all on different paths. You learn so much about another time, another place but you also learn that love is sometimes all that is needed. This book encompasses all of that.
A sheer joy to read.
Thank you to the publisher through netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
It is Christmas, a time for family for being together and for sharing in traditions, such as the snow globe that comes out every year and is one of Daisy most precious items. However everything she knows is shaken up and settles very much in a different way, just like her snow globe. Can it all return to the way it was or a brighter future?
Upon overhearing from servants that her father has a mistress and then seeing her mother invite said mistress as a guest for the Christmas season, Daisy’s world and perception changes. She struggles to deal with such information and cannot understand how her mother puts up with such things and how even her older sisters seems fully aware of what is happening. Daisy is struggling to understand love and this is not helping her.
She turns to her friend, Stephen who she has known since childhood, but he has plans of his own and they may not include still being friends with Daisy as their positions in life suddenly become very different and their social gap could widen.
All the time she is being encouraged to settle down, to marry, not necessarily for love but perhaps for necessity. Dealing with kisses, proclamations of love and marriage proposals she does not know where to turn to seek the right advice. Her mother has gone travelling, her father she feels she cannot approach, her sisters either free spirits or already tied down with domesticity. What is the right way and if the globe is shaken once more the snow will settle exactly in the right place and then the answer will become clear. The questions she has been asking are making Daisy even more puzzled.
This is a book which encompasses the lives of those upstairs and downstairs in a big house, where people gather and it is described in such a cinematic way that you can see it easily being transferred to a screen. Of course it is very much Daisy’s story but I enjoyed her mother Mabel as she sets out to challenge convention and prove that love is worth fighting for.
There is something about historical fiction that I am drawn to, the chosen era reflecting the storyline as this book does. The characters having the same anxieties as those today, with twists and turns as life takes us all on different paths. You learn so much about another time, another place but you also learn that love is sometimes all that is needed. This book encompasses all of that.
A sheer joy to read.
Thank you to the publisher through netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
September 30, 2017
If there is a Downton-shaped hole in your life that desperately needs filling, then look no further than Judith Kinghorn’s captivating, atmospheric and entrancing family sagas set in the earlier part of the 20th century. In her latest novel, The Snow Globe, this outstanding storyteller has penned a dazzling tale of passion, secrets and desire you are simply going to love!
In December 1926, the Forbes family are getting ready to celebrate Christmas and to hosting a dazzling Yuletide celebration at Eden Hall, their majestic family home, but eighteen year old Daisy Forbes cannot help but be worried by this strange sensation that a seismic change is in the air that is going to cause major upheaval for her and her family. As a loving daughter with a particularly close relationship to her father, Daisy has always felt safe and secure in the knowledge that she was loved and in the close bond she had with her Papa, however, when shocking secrets come to light, she realises that the man she trusted above anyone else in the world might not have been as trustworthy and honourable as she had previously thought him…
The only man Daisy can rely on is Stephen Jessop, the housekeeper’s son and the family’s chauffeur. Daisy has known Stephen almost all of her life, but recently their relationship has changed, their feelings for one another have altered and their every encounter seems fraught with tension – and an attraction sizzles between them that is becoming increasingly difficult to deny and resist! As life leads her down an increasingly fraught and confusing path where she finds herself receiving a kiss, a proposal and a declaration of love from three different men, a disconcerted and bewildered Daisy finds herself with no other option but to escape to London and try and sort out her muddled feelings.
When she finally decides to accept the hand of one of her suitors and Stephen comes back into her life, Daisy quickly realises that she has made the wrong choice. But will fate manage to bring her and Stephen together again? Or is their love simply not meant to be?
The talented Judith Kinghorn paints a vivid and colourful picture of life in Edwardian England and The Snow Globe is an addictive and engrossing family saga that I found absolutely impossible to put down. Rich in period detail, wonderfully drawn characters, drama, pathos and emotion, The Snow Globe is a spellbinding tale of family secrets, forbidden love and a changing world that I found fascinating and gripping.
The Snow Globe is a book I couldn’t stop reading and I am already eagerly waiting for the next sumptuous family saga by this first class storyteller!
In December 1926, the Forbes family are getting ready to celebrate Christmas and to hosting a dazzling Yuletide celebration at Eden Hall, their majestic family home, but eighteen year old Daisy Forbes cannot help but be worried by this strange sensation that a seismic change is in the air that is going to cause major upheaval for her and her family. As a loving daughter with a particularly close relationship to her father, Daisy has always felt safe and secure in the knowledge that she was loved and in the close bond she had with her Papa, however, when shocking secrets come to light, she realises that the man she trusted above anyone else in the world might not have been as trustworthy and honourable as she had previously thought him…
The only man Daisy can rely on is Stephen Jessop, the housekeeper’s son and the family’s chauffeur. Daisy has known Stephen almost all of her life, but recently their relationship has changed, their feelings for one another have altered and their every encounter seems fraught with tension – and an attraction sizzles between them that is becoming increasingly difficult to deny and resist! As life leads her down an increasingly fraught and confusing path where she finds herself receiving a kiss, a proposal and a declaration of love from three different men, a disconcerted and bewildered Daisy finds herself with no other option but to escape to London and try and sort out her muddled feelings.
When she finally decides to accept the hand of one of her suitors and Stephen comes back into her life, Daisy quickly realises that she has made the wrong choice. But will fate manage to bring her and Stephen together again? Or is their love simply not meant to be?
The talented Judith Kinghorn paints a vivid and colourful picture of life in Edwardian England and The Snow Globe is an addictive and engrossing family saga that I found absolutely impossible to put down. Rich in period detail, wonderfully drawn characters, drama, pathos and emotion, The Snow Globe is a spellbinding tale of family secrets, forbidden love and a changing world that I found fascinating and gripping.
The Snow Globe is a book I couldn’t stop reading and I am already eagerly waiting for the next sumptuous family saga by this first class storyteller!
September 22, 2017
Visit the locations in the novel - Eden Hall in Surrey
Snow globes are fascinating. That’s the first thing I thought of when picking up this novel to read. That miniature world encased in glass and you, like a giant looking in and wishing sometimes you were in that snowy world. Or was that just me? I digress
Anyway, a snow globe provides a very nice link to how Daisy in the novel is feeling since her world is seemingly made of glass, her world all planned and created for her, and all she has to go is to hold it in her hands. But what do you do, if you don’t want it but don’t want to smash it either? Daisy loves this snow globe but not her life – she puts it on display in Eden Hall and it’s as if she is the real object on display.
This novel is like sinking into a cushion and thinking you’re in Downton Abbey. It’s a nice slow read and much of the action surrounds Daisy and her life at Eden Hall and her journey as she grows up. The family dynamics are interesting and when the father’s mistress is invited to the dinner party, well, the fireworks outside aren’t the only ones exploding.
“ ‘Love never leaves us. It stays right here,’ she said, placing a hand to her chest. ‘And then, one day, the mist rises, everything falls into place, and its so easy to see, to understand, and one wishes one could run back through the years, back to that love.’”
Eden Hall is like that snow globe – keep it still and it looks idyllic from the outside but shake things up such as in the family and goodness knows what will result.
I always enjoy Judith’s novels and this was comforting and there’s always something about country houses and their quirks which continue to fascinate.
June 11, 2015
This book was not what I hoped at all. I love my historical fiction, but other than taking place after WWI in England, that's about the most history you're going to get! Otherwise it was about 18 year old Daisy, trying to figure out love…..for the entire book. Super predictable and quite boring most of the time. Of course, you keep reading to see if she finally figures out which guy to choose, but all-in-all, not worth reading.
March 13, 2015
I won a copy from goodreads giveaways for honest review. This is a great book for a book club especially if there are mothers and daughters. Loved how Judith Kinghorn transitioned between the different points of view to show how we can grow and change for the better or worse depending on how we love.
September 26, 2017
A brilliant read! I downloaded and read this in one day - a real page turner.
Set in rural Surrey and also London during 1926 and 1927, this is a story of true love which endures regardless of a series of doubts and misunderstandings.
Judith Kinghorn, you have done it again!
Set in rural Surrey and also London during 1926 and 1927, this is a story of true love which endures regardless of a series of doubts and misunderstandings.
Judith Kinghorn, you have done it again!
October 4, 2015
An entrancing story that satisfies a mystery buff, a romance fan & a human interest reader. I especially enjoyed the suspense wrapped into many moments throughout the novel.
November 2, 2021
A beautiful written story about old love and new love. I have read several of Judith Kinghorn’s books and have loved them all.
December 17, 2021
There was an easiness of sorts to this book. While there was necessary conflict it allowed confidence that it would be satisfactorily resolved.
October 7, 2017
Our Review
Reading "The Snow Globe" brings visions of Downton Abbey to mind, the story sits within the historical fiction genre and is set in December 1926, with the Forbes family, who live in Eden Hall and preparations are being made for Christmas family gathering and seasonal celebrations.
The main character is eighteen year old Daisy Forbes, the youngest child of Mabel and Howard, and Daisy has always been a fathers daughter whom she has always admired. In the early part of the book, we learn that Daisy has this feeling things are about to change and a family upheaval is imminent. It isn't long before she discovers a shocking secret about her father. Daisy over hers the servants and learns her father has lived a very separate life in London with his lover. This leaves Daisy shattered, the one person she adores, provided her with security, and love, is no longer the honorable person she thought he was.
Stephen, the house keepers son and family chauffeur, is the one persons she knows she can turn to. They have both known each all their lives and have spent considerable time together. Their feelings have grown of the years from friendship, and through this story they develop to love. But Stephen isn't Daisy's only suitor..... in total their are *coughs* (we don't want to give too much away - no spoilers here) and through the story we see her receive a proposal and a declaration of love. Stephen, whom she has grown deeply in love with, is moving abroad, to start a new life, this coupled with her new knowledge of her fathers love affair and the prospect of her mother inviting her fathers lover to spend Christmas at Eden Hall finds Daisy confused. She is not sure who to turn to for advice, she has always been encouraged to settle down and marry, however not necessarily for love, maybe for necessity.
Everything becomes to much for Daisy, and she takes herself off to London to escape and find the answer. And just like her snow globe, if it is shaken once more she hopes the snow will settle in the right place and the answer will be clear.
Daisy decides to accept the hand of marriage to one of her suitors, and not long after Stephen comes back into her life. As my Nan would have said, you wait for one and then they all come along like buses! Yes, this book brought back many happy memories of conversations with my grandmother, over tea and toast. Daisy knows who her true feelings of love are with, but will fate work it's hand and bring them together..... *coughs again* no spoilers.
The characters are well written, it is very easy to get to know them and feel part of the story. I loved both Daisy and her mother Mabel, and both make this book great reading. Mabel challenges the norm and is set on proving love is worth fighting for.
One of the things I love most about book reviews is I gain the opportunity to read books that I may not ordinary have chosen to buy, this is one of those books. You may ask - why? The historical fiction gene isn't one that jumps out at me, but The Snow Globe makes for easy and compelling reading. One of those books, full of likable characters, family tales, secrets, touch of romance and I was compelled to read to the end, a real page turner. A must buy and read for a relaxing read leading up to Christmas.
Thank you to both Canelo and Judith Kinghorn for the advanced copy, I am certainly going to track down more of Judith's books.
Reading "The Snow Globe" brings visions of Downton Abbey to mind, the story sits within the historical fiction genre and is set in December 1926, with the Forbes family, who live in Eden Hall and preparations are being made for Christmas family gathering and seasonal celebrations.
The main character is eighteen year old Daisy Forbes, the youngest child of Mabel and Howard, and Daisy has always been a fathers daughter whom she has always admired. In the early part of the book, we learn that Daisy has this feeling things are about to change and a family upheaval is imminent. It isn't long before she discovers a shocking secret about her father. Daisy over hers the servants and learns her father has lived a very separate life in London with his lover. This leaves Daisy shattered, the one person she adores, provided her with security, and love, is no longer the honorable person she thought he was.
Stephen, the house keepers son and family chauffeur, is the one persons she knows she can turn to. They have both known each all their lives and have spent considerable time together. Their feelings have grown of the years from friendship, and through this story they develop to love. But Stephen isn't Daisy's only suitor..... in total their are *coughs* (we don't want to give too much away - no spoilers here) and through the story we see her receive a proposal and a declaration of love. Stephen, whom she has grown deeply in love with, is moving abroad, to start a new life, this coupled with her new knowledge of her fathers love affair and the prospect of her mother inviting her fathers lover to spend Christmas at Eden Hall finds Daisy confused. She is not sure who to turn to for advice, she has always been encouraged to settle down and marry, however not necessarily for love, maybe for necessity.
Everything becomes to much for Daisy, and she takes herself off to London to escape and find the answer. And just like her snow globe, if it is shaken once more she hopes the snow will settle in the right place and the answer will be clear.
Daisy decides to accept the hand of marriage to one of her suitors, and not long after Stephen comes back into her life. As my Nan would have said, you wait for one and then they all come along like buses! Yes, this book brought back many happy memories of conversations with my grandmother, over tea and toast. Daisy knows who her true feelings of love are with, but will fate work it's hand and bring them together..... *coughs again* no spoilers.
The characters are well written, it is very easy to get to know them and feel part of the story. I loved both Daisy and her mother Mabel, and both make this book great reading. Mabel challenges the norm and is set on proving love is worth fighting for.
One of the things I love most about book reviews is I gain the opportunity to read books that I may not ordinary have chosen to buy, this is one of those books. You may ask - why? The historical fiction gene isn't one that jumps out at me, but The Snow Globe makes for easy and compelling reading. One of those books, full of likable characters, family tales, secrets, touch of romance and I was compelled to read to the end, a real page turner. A must buy and read for a relaxing read leading up to Christmas.
Thank you to both Canelo and Judith Kinghorn for the advanced copy, I am certainly going to track down more of Judith's books.
March 21, 2018
This is the fourth book I’ve read by Judith Kinghorn, so I had an idea of what to expect from it: an early twentieth century setting, a big house, a family with servants, their way of life changing as a result of the First World War. The Snow Globe does have all of these things, although the war aspect is not as strong as in The Last Summer or The Echo of Twilight.
The novel opens in December 1926. At Eden Hall in Surrey, the Forbes family are preparing to celebrate Christmas and eighteen-year-old Daisy has brought out her snow globe, a treasured gift from her father, Howard. She and her father have always had a close relationship and this makes it particularly upsetting when she overhears the servants saying that he has been having an affair. To make matters worse, her mother has just invited Howard’s mistress to spend Christmas with them. This creates a dilemma for Daisy. Does her mother know what has been going on – and if not, should she be told?
The discovery that her father may not be the man she has always believed him to be shakes Daisy’s confidence and makes it difficult for her to trust the other men in her life. There are three of them and they have each declared their love for Daisy over that same Christmas period: Stephen Jessop, the housekeeper’s adopted son and Daisy’s childhood friend; Valentine Vincent, the son of her father’s mistress; and Ben Gifford, who works for the family business. To give herself some time to think, Daisy goes to stay in London with her glamorous older sister Iris but eventually she will need to make a decision…will it be the right one?
I enjoyed The Snow Globe, but I found it very light compared to Judith Kinghorn’s other books. Although the book is set in the 1920s, there’s not a lot of history in it. Apart from the opening chapter, which discusses the disappearance of Agatha Christie, there are very few mentions of any other historical events or people of the time. However, it does still capture the feel of the 1920s very well, touching on the lives of those both upstairs and downstairs, class differences within society, attitudes towards marriage, and the changing roles of women.
I liked Daisy – although some of her actions seem a bit silly, it’s worth remembering that she is young and innocent and has just had her world torn apart. Her precious snow globe, which shows a miniature world encased in glass, could be seen as symbolising this: when the globe is shaken the illusion is destroyed and then, when things fall back into place, they are in a slightly different position than they were before. I also liked spending time with the servants, listening to their gossip and seeing life at Eden Hall through their eyes. The character who interested me most, though, was probably Mabel, Daisy’s mother. I found her reaction to the traumas in her life dignified and mature; she didn’t fall apart as some people would, but searched for the strength within herself to carry on.
There was enough happening in The Snow Globe to hold my interest from beginning to end, but it didn’t have the level of depth that I prefer in a novel. I would recommend it to fans of Downton Abbey or other ‘big house’ stories, but I think The Echo of Twilight would be a better choice to start with.
The novel opens in December 1926. At Eden Hall in Surrey, the Forbes family are preparing to celebrate Christmas and eighteen-year-old Daisy has brought out her snow globe, a treasured gift from her father, Howard. She and her father have always had a close relationship and this makes it particularly upsetting when she overhears the servants saying that he has been having an affair. To make matters worse, her mother has just invited Howard’s mistress to spend Christmas with them. This creates a dilemma for Daisy. Does her mother know what has been going on – and if not, should she be told?
The discovery that her father may not be the man she has always believed him to be shakes Daisy’s confidence and makes it difficult for her to trust the other men in her life. There are three of them and they have each declared their love for Daisy over that same Christmas period: Stephen Jessop, the housekeeper’s adopted son and Daisy’s childhood friend; Valentine Vincent, the son of her father’s mistress; and Ben Gifford, who works for the family business. To give herself some time to think, Daisy goes to stay in London with her glamorous older sister Iris but eventually she will need to make a decision…will it be the right one?
I enjoyed The Snow Globe, but I found it very light compared to Judith Kinghorn’s other books. Although the book is set in the 1920s, there’s not a lot of history in it. Apart from the opening chapter, which discusses the disappearance of Agatha Christie, there are very few mentions of any other historical events or people of the time. However, it does still capture the feel of the 1920s very well, touching on the lives of those both upstairs and downstairs, class differences within society, attitudes towards marriage, and the changing roles of women.
I liked Daisy – although some of her actions seem a bit silly, it’s worth remembering that she is young and innocent and has just had her world torn apart. Her precious snow globe, which shows a miniature world encased in glass, could be seen as symbolising this: when the globe is shaken the illusion is destroyed and then, when things fall back into place, they are in a slightly different position than they were before. I also liked spending time with the servants, listening to their gossip and seeing life at Eden Hall through their eyes. The character who interested me most, though, was probably Mabel, Daisy’s mother. I found her reaction to the traumas in her life dignified and mature; she didn’t fall apart as some people would, but searched for the strength within herself to carry on.
There was enough happening in The Snow Globe to hold my interest from beginning to end, but it didn’t have the level of depth that I prefer in a novel. I would recommend it to fans of Downton Abbey or other ‘big house’ stories, but I think The Echo of Twilight would be a better choice to start with.
October 6, 2017
*Review first published on www.adventureandanxiety.com*
Daisy Forbes lives a privileged and luxurious life with her family in Eden Hall. Up until Christmas 1926, she's been a total daddy's girl, proudly displaying the snow globe he gave her throughout each festive period. But when she discovers he's hiding a secret double life from her, everything she has known begins to feel tarnished. Not only that, she becomes romantically entangled with three suitors vying for her affections. When her close companion Stephen announces he's leaving the country, Daisy begins to feel trapped in a world that feels increasingly claustrophobic - not unlike the world inside her prized snow globe.
Life at Eden Hall is turned upside down for the entire Forbes family, with many characters considering their options. By the time they regroup six months later it is clear that affections and loyalties have changed. Daisy is with the wrong man, but is it possible that the one she truly loves is even more unsuitable?
The Snow Globe has had many comparisons to Downton Abbey - and for good reason. It's so sumptuously descriptive that you can picture the elegance and finery as it leaps off the page at you. I'm a sucker for a period piece, and this inter-war era is so glamorous that I feel a bit jealous I'm not a part of it.
The novel has two stories woven through it, with both Daisy and her mother Mabel on parallel journeys of self-discovery. Daisy not only has to figure out what she wants in her romantic life but more interestingly (in my opinion) the book follows her coming of age as she starts to view her parents as human and flawed. I think we've all had that wake-up moment when we realised our parents weren't perfect, and this, for me, was a really interesting plotline.
I also really enjoyed Mabel's story. Her backstory was complex and heart-wrenching, and I loved seeing a strong female character following her heart entirely, putting herself first and completely blossoming. While in some ways Daisy did the same, she still came across as a somewhat insecure character who depends on others; Mabel experiences utter freedom and self-reliance which was wonderful to see.
The Snow Globe is part love story, part family drama, focusing on secrets, love, loss and forgiveness. This novel was beautifully written, with some extremely likeable supporting characters (Noonie, Daisy's grandmother and Iris, Daisy's older sister are particular highlights) and a story I found completely immersive. For me, this is the festive version of a holiday read - easy to read and relatable. It's enchanting, perfectly emotive and full of vivid imagery. This is a family that has to fall apart to fall back together, and their story will tug at your heartstrings.
Daisy Forbes lives a privileged and luxurious life with her family in Eden Hall. Up until Christmas 1926, she's been a total daddy's girl, proudly displaying the snow globe he gave her throughout each festive period. But when she discovers he's hiding a secret double life from her, everything she has known begins to feel tarnished. Not only that, she becomes romantically entangled with three suitors vying for her affections. When her close companion Stephen announces he's leaving the country, Daisy begins to feel trapped in a world that feels increasingly claustrophobic - not unlike the world inside her prized snow globe.
Life at Eden Hall is turned upside down for the entire Forbes family, with many characters considering their options. By the time they regroup six months later it is clear that affections and loyalties have changed. Daisy is with the wrong man, but is it possible that the one she truly loves is even more unsuitable?
The Snow Globe has had many comparisons to Downton Abbey - and for good reason. It's so sumptuously descriptive that you can picture the elegance and finery as it leaps off the page at you. I'm a sucker for a period piece, and this inter-war era is so glamorous that I feel a bit jealous I'm not a part of it.
The novel has two stories woven through it, with both Daisy and her mother Mabel on parallel journeys of self-discovery. Daisy not only has to figure out what she wants in her romantic life but more interestingly (in my opinion) the book follows her coming of age as she starts to view her parents as human and flawed. I think we've all had that wake-up moment when we realised our parents weren't perfect, and this, for me, was a really interesting plotline.
I also really enjoyed Mabel's story. Her backstory was complex and heart-wrenching, and I loved seeing a strong female character following her heart entirely, putting herself first and completely blossoming. While in some ways Daisy did the same, she still came across as a somewhat insecure character who depends on others; Mabel experiences utter freedom and self-reliance which was wonderful to see.
The Snow Globe is part love story, part family drama, focusing on secrets, love, loss and forgiveness. This novel was beautifully written, with some extremely likeable supporting characters (Noonie, Daisy's grandmother and Iris, Daisy's older sister are particular highlights) and a story I found completely immersive. For me, this is the festive version of a holiday read - easy to read and relatable. It's enchanting, perfectly emotive and full of vivid imagery. This is a family that has to fall apart to fall back together, and their story will tug at your heartstrings.
September 26, 2017
I have to admit this is the first book I have read by Judith Kinghorn. So why was I pulled towards this one? Simple I just adore snow globes, they have always seemed magical to me and I used to have quite a collection. If only life was as simple as shaking one and settling it all down again.
The Snow Globe in this case was a gift to young Daisy from her father. It became a yearly fixture amid the Christmas decorations. It contained their home Eden Hall so was very personal.
As Daisy grows she learns of her fathers’ infidelity, the audacity of the mistress who will attend the Christmas festivities with them. The adoration for her father is shattered. But time moves on and Daisy begins to have romantic notions of her own. She is wooed by different men and she has to decide if any are suitable candidates for her love.
This is set c. 1926, a time when women were a delicate breed, the car was making an appearance and servants knew all the gossip.
A novel of love, family drama, secrets, coming of age with some history facts involved. The writing flows nicely, I got a bit lost with a few of the characters but once I’d got about half way in it all slots into place. Anyone fond of ‘Downton Abbey’ or ‘Upstairs, Downstairs’ will really enjoy this. Does the snow globe have any significance? You will just have to read this book to discover that for yourself. I will have to investigate the author’s other books after savouring this one.
My thanks to the author, publisher and netgalley for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
The Snow Globe in this case was a gift to young Daisy from her father. It became a yearly fixture amid the Christmas decorations. It contained their home Eden Hall so was very personal.
As Daisy grows she learns of her fathers’ infidelity, the audacity of the mistress who will attend the Christmas festivities with them. The adoration for her father is shattered. But time moves on and Daisy begins to have romantic notions of her own. She is wooed by different men and she has to decide if any are suitable candidates for her love.
This is set c. 1926, a time when women were a delicate breed, the car was making an appearance and servants knew all the gossip.
A novel of love, family drama, secrets, coming of age with some history facts involved. The writing flows nicely, I got a bit lost with a few of the characters but once I’d got about half way in it all slots into place. Anyone fond of ‘Downton Abbey’ or ‘Upstairs, Downstairs’ will really enjoy this. Does the snow globe have any significance? You will just have to read this book to discover that for yourself. I will have to investigate the author’s other books after savouring this one.
My thanks to the author, publisher and netgalley for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
September 30, 2017
The Snow Globe is set in the mid 1920's in that period of history between the two World Wars. It reminds me of Downton Abbey with its Upstairs Downstairs feel and I particularly like how you are given different viewpoints throughout the book. The snow globe of the title is a wonderful symbol for life at Eden Hall. Daisy's sheltered life is tipped upside down after she overhears gossip about her father and it takes the whole of the book for the metaphorical snowflakes to settle again.
The writing evokes the period well, showing us the changes which women's lives have undergone. With fast cars and cocktails, the future seems harshly lit, a contrast to the tweedy country life in the country. The effects on the generation of men and women who survived the Great War and the optimism felt by the young in the 1920's are poignantly juxtaposed.
We are given a family saga of love and secrets, with all of the family dealing with the effects of past indiscretions. They are well rounded characters, particularly Daisy and her mother, Mabel and the lives of these two mirror each other as they both have to make life-changing decisions. Love is seen in many different forms and always at the centre is a sense of loss and loneliness which has to be acknowledged and worked through. Judith Kinghorn's words carry you through and by the end of the book, I was thoroughly engaged.
In short: a family saga which takes you back to the 1920's with panache.
Thanks to Canelo for a copy of the book.
The writing evokes the period well, showing us the changes which women's lives have undergone. With fast cars and cocktails, the future seems harshly lit, a contrast to the tweedy country life in the country. The effects on the generation of men and women who survived the Great War and the optimism felt by the young in the 1920's are poignantly juxtaposed.
We are given a family saga of love and secrets, with all of the family dealing with the effects of past indiscretions. They are well rounded characters, particularly Daisy and her mother, Mabel and the lives of these two mirror each other as they both have to make life-changing decisions. Love is seen in many different forms and always at the centre is a sense of loss and loneliness which has to be acknowledged and worked through. Judith Kinghorn's words carry you through and by the end of the book, I was thoroughly engaged.
In short: a family saga which takes you back to the 1920's with panache.
Thanks to Canelo for a copy of the book.
March 10, 2017
This book was ok. It claimed to be historical fiction but while it was set in 1926 , there wasn't any actual history in it. The story was interesting enough that I finished it but the main character was so insipid that I had a hard time caring what happened to her, for her to swear off ever talking to the man she was in love with because he had sex with another woman after she essentially rejected him was so ridiculous to me. She thought he would never have sex with anyone his entire life and was to just pin away for her?
Valentine declaring his love for her out of nowhere and then that just vanishing made no sense in the story either and made it stilted and awkward. He just glanced at her and fell madly in love and then madly out of love when it no longer served the story?
I could go on and on picking it apart but it's fair to see , it wasn't what I thought it would be , and while it was ok, it was predictable and formulated with a nice wrapped ending where every one lived happily ever after
Valentine declaring his love for her out of nowhere and then that just vanishing made no sense in the story either and made it stilted and awkward. He just glanced at her and fell madly in love and then madly out of love when it no longer served the story?
I could go on and on picking it apart but it's fair to see , it wasn't what I thought it would be , and while it was ok, it was predictable and formulated with a nice wrapped ending where every one lived happily ever after
October 17, 2017
It is Christmas 1926 when Daisy Forbes life changes - she is happy living at home with her family at Eden Hall, their country mansion, when she discovers that the father that she idolizes has very definitely got feet made of clay.........he has been having an affair with an actress in London for years. Daisy is devastated and to make it worse Stephen who has been her best friend for years professes his love for her but tells her that he is going to live in New Zealand!
With two other suitors around she does no what to do and decides to opt for the safe life - after all she might not get another proposal - but is her heart really in it or is it Stephen that she really wants? Then she discovers a secret from years ago that makes it all impossible
An enjoyable story - fairly predictable but the characters were good and likeable and a few twists to keep your interest - perfect for curling up with on a winter's day
With two other suitors around she does no what to do and decides to opt for the safe life - after all she might not get another proposal - but is her heart really in it or is it Stephen that she really wants? Then she discovers a secret from years ago that makes it all impossible
An enjoyable story - fairly predictable but the characters were good and likeable and a few twists to keep your interest - perfect for curling up with on a winter's day
November 5, 2017
December 1926 at Eden Hall and the Forbes family are making plans for the annual Christmas family get together.
For Daisy Forbes, the youngest daughter of the family, Christmas is a magical time because every year she gets out the precious snow globe that her father gave her when she was a child. However, this year, the magical spell of Christmas is to be broken and smashed into a million tiny pieces as secrets that have been held for decades bubble to the surface and irretrievably break down the relationship between Daisy and her father.
Over the next year we see a family struggling coming to terms with the events of Christmas 1926 and as a result of this Daisy blossoms into a confident young woman.
A gripping tale of family secrets but also the trials of being young and making your own mark in the world. Fans of Santa Montefiore would love this book.
I will definitely be reading the other novels by Judith Kinghorn
For Daisy Forbes, the youngest daughter of the family, Christmas is a magical time because every year she gets out the precious snow globe that her father gave her when she was a child. However, this year, the magical spell of Christmas is to be broken and smashed into a million tiny pieces as secrets that have been held for decades bubble to the surface and irretrievably break down the relationship between Daisy and her father.
Over the next year we see a family struggling coming to terms with the events of Christmas 1926 and as a result of this Daisy blossoms into a confident young woman.
A gripping tale of family secrets but also the trials of being young and making your own mark in the world. Fans of Santa Montefiore would love this book.
I will definitely be reading the other novels by Judith Kinghorn
September 25, 2017
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This book is a fantastically written family saga and I thoroughly enjoyed it!! The writing style suits the book so well, it just flows and you really do feel as you are living back in the 1920s along with the characters.
I particularly enjoyed Daisy as a character and the snow globe provides a very nice link to how Daisy is feeling - trapped in a world where she has no control and other people handle her future. Daisy was given the snow globe by her father and whilst she loves and treasures it, her life at Eden Hall makes her feel as though she is the one on display - this is the first book that I have read by Judith and I will definitely be looking to read her other books, this one was a genuine pleasure to read and I've given it a solid 4 stars rating
This book is a fantastically written family saga and I thoroughly enjoyed it!! The writing style suits the book so well, it just flows and you really do feel as you are living back in the 1920s along with the characters.
I particularly enjoyed Daisy as a character and the snow globe provides a very nice link to how Daisy is feeling - trapped in a world where she has no control and other people handle her future. Daisy was given the snow globe by her father and whilst she loves and treasures it, her life at Eden Hall makes her feel as though she is the one on display - this is the first book that I have read by Judith and I will definitely be looking to read her other books, this one was a genuine pleasure to read and I've given it a solid 4 stars rating
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