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Darling Blue
'Tracy Rees writes from the heart' Kathryn Hughes, author of The Letter. Perfect for fans of The Keeper of Lost Things and The Villa in Italy.
Blue lives a charmed life. From her family's townhouse in Richmond, she lives the life of luxury and couldn't want for anything - well, on the surface at least.
Then on the night of her twenty-first birthday her father makes a startling he will give his daughter's hand to whichever man can capture her heart best in the form of a love letter. But Blue has other ideas and, unwilling to play at her father's bewildering games, she sets out on her own path to find her own destiny...
Blue lives a charmed life. From her family's townhouse in Richmond, she lives the life of luxury and couldn't want for anything - well, on the surface at least.
Then on the night of her twenty-first birthday her father makes a startling he will give his daughter's hand to whichever man can capture her heart best in the form of a love letter. But Blue has other ideas and, unwilling to play at her father's bewildering games, she sets out on her own path to find her own destiny...
544 pages, ebook
First published July 26, 2018
160 people are currently reading
646 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Rees
11 books561 followersTracy Rees is a Cambridge graduate with a degree in Modern and Medieval Languages. After an eight-year career in nonfiction publishing, she worked as a counselor for people with cancer and their families. Amy Snow is her first novel. She lives in Swansea, Wales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
November 23, 2018
"Darling Blue" by Tracy Rees is darling by name and darling by nature. I've always enjoyed a good historical family saga and although I tend to enjoy the more grittier ones, there are times a cosy one does just as well. This book fits the bill perfectly for a relaxing and enjoyable read that takes you to the roaring 1920's where fashion was bobbed hairstyles, beaded flapper dresses and cloche hats and the author has captured the era spot on!
"Darling Blue" is the affectionate nickname for the main character Ishbel Camberwell, who at her twenty first birthday party finds her father making a speech and spontaneously announcing that potential suitors for his daughter's hand should attempt to win her affections through an anonymous love letter, with the winner announced next year. Lots of things happen in the story other than this thread and it was interesting to see it all come together at the end. I adored all the characters, they really were well portrayed and written to be very likeable. Delphine was probably my favourite due to her own particularly troubled storyline but Blue was strong and moral minded yet sensitive and caring and truly represented the young ladies of the era who wished to be more than just a wife and homemaker. The chapters are told through the seasons of the year, which was unique and this allowed for the development of the months to pass with atmospheric quality.
I very much enjoyed reading this book and I would happily read more by this author again and of course I have no hesitation in recommending "Darling Blue" to both young and old readers alike.
4 stars
"Darling Blue" is the affectionate nickname for the main character Ishbel Camberwell, who at her twenty first birthday party finds her father making a speech and spontaneously announcing that potential suitors for his daughter's hand should attempt to win her affections through an anonymous love letter, with the winner announced next year. Lots of things happen in the story other than this thread and it was interesting to see it all come together at the end. I adored all the characters, they really were well portrayed and written to be very likeable. Delphine was probably my favourite due to her own particularly troubled storyline but Blue was strong and moral minded yet sensitive and caring and truly represented the young ladies of the era who wished to be more than just a wife and homemaker. The chapters are told through the seasons of the year, which was unique and this allowed for the development of the months to pass with atmospheric quality.
I very much enjoyed reading this book and I would happily read more by this author again and of course I have no hesitation in recommending "Darling Blue" to both young and old readers alike.
4 stars
October 21, 2018
Should be made into a film.
Don't miss this beautiful well written story. For Blue it was the most embarrassing situation at her twenty first birthday party. Her father gave a speech with a proposal for anyone who wishes to woo his daughter does so by letter. Whoever can win Blue's heart through a letter can have her hand in marriage. And then her father proposed a toast to his daughter of her coming age. This story was a real treasure to read.
Don't miss this beautiful well written story. For Blue it was the most embarrassing situation at her twenty first birthday party. Her father gave a speech with a proposal for anyone who wishes to woo his daughter does so by letter. Whoever can win Blue's heart through a letter can have her hand in marriage. And then her father proposed a toast to his daughter of her coming age. This story was a real treasure to read.
March 28, 2023
*Captivating*
This is historical fiction set in the roaring 1920’s. It sets the scene with the parties, glamour and glitz.
Blue and her family are based in Richmond. This was a book of two halves for me although well written the first half was fine but the second half pulled me in. The first half you are getting to know the characters and there are a lot of them but it focussed predominantly on the main character Ishbel (Aka Blue). Her 21st Birthday is looming and her father wants her to have a suitor. He announces at her party that whoever wants to win her heart must do so by letter and leave no clues as to who they are. It all seems rather lighthearted until one day they spot a woman looking rather out of sorts. After a fright where she falls in the river they soon learn her name is Delphine. She is running from an abusive husband and the family gather round to protect her. They are I would say quite wealthy but Delphine is from a lower class and knows what it is like to struggle. The saddest thing is Delphine struggled to find her voice due to her mistreatment.
What we learn is as well as their protective manner within the family there are secrets behind the facade. One person in particular has a shocking one. There are the usual misunderstandings that cause a threat to the marriage of the secret keeper.
Some secrets may never be forgiven and as Blue decides to meet one of her prospective suitors will the notes be the way to her heart? Is Delphine safe? What will the outcome be for the secret keeper?
I loved the way the author described the countryside and you really get the feel of the ambiance she was creating. I also love the beautiful book cover.
This is historical fiction set in the roaring 1920’s. It sets the scene with the parties, glamour and glitz.
Blue and her family are based in Richmond. This was a book of two halves for me although well written the first half was fine but the second half pulled me in. The first half you are getting to know the characters and there are a lot of them but it focussed predominantly on the main character Ishbel (Aka Blue). Her 21st Birthday is looming and her father wants her to have a suitor. He announces at her party that whoever wants to win her heart must do so by letter and leave no clues as to who they are. It all seems rather lighthearted until one day they spot a woman looking rather out of sorts. After a fright where she falls in the river they soon learn her name is Delphine. She is running from an abusive husband and the family gather round to protect her. They are I would say quite wealthy but Delphine is from a lower class and knows what it is like to struggle. The saddest thing is Delphine struggled to find her voice due to her mistreatment.
What we learn is as well as their protective manner within the family there are secrets behind the facade. One person in particular has a shocking one. There are the usual misunderstandings that cause a threat to the marriage of the secret keeper.
Some secrets may never be forgiven and as Blue decides to meet one of her prospective suitors will the notes be the way to her heart? Is Delphine safe? What will the outcome be for the secret keeper?
I loved the way the author described the countryside and you really get the feel of the ambiance she was creating. I also love the beautiful book cover.
August 19, 2018
This story is set in the 1920’s and revolves around the Camberwell family and the people both in their circle and on the periphery. It is amusing and romantic but also deals with two very real issues: homosexuality and post-partum depression.
Central to the tale is “Blue” the younger daughter with a love for writing and the journey she travels from her 21st birthday to her 22nd, with prospective young men attempting to woo her through letter writing. Added to this is a young woman, Delphine, a stutterer, who has escaped from a cruel husband, when she is rescued by Blue and her sister Merrigan.
Although the Camberwells appear to be the perfect family who want for nothing they have suffered tragic losses and Midge, the new stepmother is not quite who she pretends to be.
On one level the story is utterly charming with some beautiful and amusing descriptions of the weather, the river, fashion and furniture. On another, it is serious and alarming raising issues of a young man being bullied about his sexuality and the effects of post-partum depression. Alas, on a third I found it non-credible when the reprehensible actions of one of the characters was forgiven, quite easily actually, and that person welcomed back into the fold, with a merry, love fixes everything.
Central to the tale is “Blue” the younger daughter with a love for writing and the journey she travels from her 21st birthday to her 22nd, with prospective young men attempting to woo her through letter writing. Added to this is a young woman, Delphine, a stutterer, who has escaped from a cruel husband, when she is rescued by Blue and her sister Merrigan.
Although the Camberwells appear to be the perfect family who want for nothing they have suffered tragic losses and Midge, the new stepmother is not quite who she pretends to be.
On one level the story is utterly charming with some beautiful and amusing descriptions of the weather, the river, fashion and furniture. On another, it is serious and alarming raising issues of a young man being bullied about his sexuality and the effects of post-partum depression. Alas, on a third I found it non-credible when the reprehensible actions of one of the characters was forgiven, quite easily actually, and that person welcomed back into the fold, with a merry, love fixes everything.
July 15, 2018
Tracy Rees is exceptional at creating unique, fascinating characters, so real they could step off the page. Their problems are not uncommon – for Blue, it’s finding the right husband; for Midge, learning to feel secure in her existing marriage; and for Delphine, escaping a brutal husband – but Tracy Rees gives them such depth they feel fresh and utterly authentic. She knows these women inside out and brings great wisdom to their portrayals. I didn’t see the twist in Midge’s story coming – who would? It poses a terrible moral dilemma and I wondered how the author would wrap that up, but the solution she devises is perfect.
Her sense of period is spot-on, and the descriptions of place are so vivid I feel I will spot Ryan’s Castle next time I go to Richmond. I love her writing; it’s full of colour and atmosphere, with sparkly dialogue and just the right pace to keep you turning the pages.
If you haven't tried reading a Tracy Rees novel yet, try this one and I guarantee you'll want to go back and read the rest.
Her sense of period is spot-on, and the descriptions of place are so vivid I feel I will spot Ryan’s Castle next time I go to Richmond. I love her writing; it’s full of colour and atmosphere, with sparkly dialogue and just the right pace to keep you turning the pages.
If you haven't tried reading a Tracy Rees novel yet, try this one and I guarantee you'll want to go back and read the rest.
July 30, 2018
Darling Blue is, ostensibly, the tale of three disparate women who are brought together at the impeccable Richmond location of Ryans Castle. Just to clarify, this is Richmond in London, UK and not USA and Ryans Castle is not a castle but a rather plush upper middle class villa. Set in the 1920s, it follows the three women through just one year in their lives.
Ishbel - Known to everyone as Blue and she seems to be universally adored. 21 years old and an aspiring writer the book follows the year from the events of her 21st Birthday when her father announces to everyone that she is ready to marry and that she should be courted by letter.
Midge - Stepmother to Blue and a rather enigmatic woman. She is struggling with her marriage and the constant reminders of her husband's deceased first wife.
Delphine - Working Class girl who has had an impoverished upbringing and moved in to a violent marriage. In running away from her husband she is looking to reclaim her life.
Here's the problem with the book - it is mainly about Ishbel, as the title suggests. Blue herself I did not find to be a particularly likeable character. She is self-absorbed and seems to not really give any thought to how other people feel in any given situation, on the rare occassion that she does her responses are overly dramatic. Once or twice she shakes this off and has a surprising amount of empathy but these are so out of pace with the rest of her character that I fear these are just examples of the author trying to make a point about something (if I was to tell you what that is it would spoil a plot point for you - admittedly if you are reading the book and have met Floss then you already know what I'm talking about as it comes as no real surprise).
The only characters I felt myself really interested in were Midge and Delphine. Of the two there is only really Delphine who is a thoroughly decent person - although she does behave in a frustrating manner much of the time. This however, can be explained by the time period. Set in 1925 it is true to say that women had few freedoms and were seen as being the property of first their father and then their husband; the feeling of suffocation this must have brought to many is writ large with Delphine.
This is definitely a book about emotions and behaviours rather than actual events. There are a couple of more explosive, action packed scenes but on the whole nothing really happens throughout the book except for Blue, Midge and Delphine variously describing their lives and those who have interacted with them. Some of the emotional responses in the book feel lacking and the mystery behind Midge is not really dealt with, it is swept away under the carpet and forgiveness is freely given in a situation where I feel few could do so.
Based on all I've said you would only really expect a 2 Star review. That third star is simply for the capturing of the 1920s in England - certainly, in that rarefied sector of England at any rate. From the dialogue to the settings we find our protagonists in it all smacks of authenticity and you do feel sucked in to the time and the place - even if the people that populate it leave you, on the whole, rather uninterested. The author's attention to detail in the setting is what earns this book a read.
The supplementary characters are well written and all have a worthy place in the tale as they flesh out the world Darling Blue inhabits. From the superficiality of being a party girl (Dorian, Floss, Tab), to a hard working hack (Roger, Gordon, Barnaby - dear, delightful Barnaby) and a book loving homebody (Merrigan, L.W.) we get to see all her facets through her interactions with these people. The main background character (if that isn't too much of a contradiction interms) is Kenneth Campbell. As Midge's husband and Blue's father he is quite an important part of the tale but he is completely one dimensional and never blossoms in to a real person. The nearest we get is when he makes his ludricrous speech at Blue's 21st, after that he is almost so superficial as to be Santa Claus.
I don't regret reading the book and enjoyed the settings more than the people. However, I would hesitate to recommend it to anyone as it is very much a marmite book and I would hate anyone to be disappointed in my recommendations. Why not read a short excerpt before buying (if available).
THIS IS AN HONEST AND UNBIASED REVIEW OF A FREE COPY OF THE BOOK RECEIVED FROM THE PIGEONHOLE.
Ishbel - Known to everyone as Blue and she seems to be universally adored. 21 years old and an aspiring writer the book follows the year from the events of her 21st Birthday when her father announces to everyone that she is ready to marry and that she should be courted by letter.
Midge - Stepmother to Blue and a rather enigmatic woman. She is struggling with her marriage and the constant reminders of her husband's deceased first wife.
Delphine - Working Class girl who has had an impoverished upbringing and moved in to a violent marriage. In running away from her husband she is looking to reclaim her life.
Here's the problem with the book - it is mainly about Ishbel, as the title suggests. Blue herself I did not find to be a particularly likeable character. She is self-absorbed and seems to not really give any thought to how other people feel in any given situation, on the rare occassion that she does her responses are overly dramatic. Once or twice she shakes this off and has a surprising amount of empathy but these are so out of pace with the rest of her character that I fear these are just examples of the author trying to make a point about something (if I was to tell you what that is it would spoil a plot point for you - admittedly if you are reading the book and have met Floss then you already know what I'm talking about as it comes as no real surprise).
The only characters I felt myself really interested in were Midge and Delphine. Of the two there is only really Delphine who is a thoroughly decent person - although she does behave in a frustrating manner much of the time. This however, can be explained by the time period. Set in 1925 it is true to say that women had few freedoms and were seen as being the property of first their father and then their husband; the feeling of suffocation this must have brought to many is writ large with Delphine.
This is definitely a book about emotions and behaviours rather than actual events. There are a couple of more explosive, action packed scenes but on the whole nothing really happens throughout the book except for Blue, Midge and Delphine variously describing their lives and those who have interacted with them. Some of the emotional responses in the book feel lacking and the mystery behind Midge is not really dealt with, it is swept away under the carpet and forgiveness is freely given in a situation where I feel few could do so.
Based on all I've said you would only really expect a 2 Star review. That third star is simply for the capturing of the 1920s in England - certainly, in that rarefied sector of England at any rate. From the dialogue to the settings we find our protagonists in it all smacks of authenticity and you do feel sucked in to the time and the place - even if the people that populate it leave you, on the whole, rather uninterested. The author's attention to detail in the setting is what earns this book a read.
The supplementary characters are well written and all have a worthy place in the tale as they flesh out the world Darling Blue inhabits. From the superficiality of being a party girl (Dorian, Floss, Tab), to a hard working hack (Roger, Gordon, Barnaby - dear, delightful Barnaby) and a book loving homebody (Merrigan, L.W.) we get to see all her facets through her interactions with these people. The main background character (if that isn't too much of a contradiction interms) is Kenneth Campbell. As Midge's husband and Blue's father he is quite an important part of the tale but he is completely one dimensional and never blossoms in to a real person. The nearest we get is when he makes his ludricrous speech at Blue's 21st, after that he is almost so superficial as to be Santa Claus.
I don't regret reading the book and enjoyed the settings more than the people. However, I would hesitate to recommend it to anyone as it is very much a marmite book and I would hate anyone to be disappointed in my recommendations. Why not read a short excerpt before buying (if available).
THIS IS AN HONEST AND UNBIASED REVIEW OF A FREE COPY OF THE BOOK RECEIVED FROM THE PIGEONHOLE.
November 16, 2023
Londen, 1925. Blue Camberwell leidt een bevoorrecht en overwegend gelukkig leven, ze koestert haar hechte band met haar familie en vrienden, ze heeft ambitie, moderne en frisse denkbeelden en één grote droom: ze wil dolgraag schrijfster worden. Ze is totaal niet bezig met de liefde, maar de buitenwereld vraagt zich af wanneer ze nou eens in het huwelijksbootje zal stappen en op het feest voor haar 21e verjaardag verrast haar vader iedereen. Enigszins beschonken schrijft hij een anonieme brievenwedstrijd om de hand van zijn dochter uit, een initiatief waar Blue echt niet blij mee is, maar dan beginnen de brieven binnen te stromen…
Gedurende een jaar volg je Blue in haar stappen op carrièregebied, je leest hoe ze zich staande moet houden tussen mannen die niet per se zitten te wachten op een vrouw op de werkvloer, hoe ze nieuwe vriendschappen sluit en uit probeert te vinden welke man het beste bij haar en haar gewenste leven kan passen. Ondertussen lees je ook over de levens van Midge, Blues stiefmoeder, die een groot geheim, schuldgevoel en verdriet met zich meedraagt, en over Delphine, een jonge vrouw op de vlucht voor huiselijk geweld.
Deze verschillende verhaallijnen worden in een heerlijk vlotte stijl, met verrassend veel humor en af en toe een flinke scheut drama met elkaar verbonden. De personages zijn mooi neergezet, ze maken allemaal een ontwikkeling door en hebben ieder een eigen strijd te voeren en onzekerheden te overwinnen, want hoewel hun levens heel verschillend zijn, is het voor niemand rozengeur en maneschijn. Hun worstelingen worden afgewisseld met luchtige en liefdevolle momenten, de brieven zijn een leuke toevoeging en hoewel ik niet alle ontwikkelingen volledig geloofwaardig vond en het tempo in het middenstuk wat inzakt, blijft het een boeiend, meeslepend en enerverend verhaal.
De historische context wordt overtuigend geschetst, de familie is vrij progressief, waardoor onderwerpen worden aangesneden die in die tijd waarschijnlijk niet vaak werden besproken, ze staan open voor nieuwe ideeën en maken gebruik van verworven vrijheden. Door de wisselende perspectieven wordt het een compleet geheel, de kleine cliffhangers zorgen ervoor dat je de pagina’s snel blijft omslaan en dit is een fijn en hartverwarmend verhaal over liefde, vriendschap, geluk en verlies, over hulp vragen, je hart volgen, dreiging en gerechtigheid, tweede kansen en een nieuw begin. Een origineel concept dat sterk wordt uitgewerkt, een aanrader voor liefhebbers van historische romans!
3.5-4⭐️
Gedurende een jaar volg je Blue in haar stappen op carrièregebied, je leest hoe ze zich staande moet houden tussen mannen die niet per se zitten te wachten op een vrouw op de werkvloer, hoe ze nieuwe vriendschappen sluit en uit probeert te vinden welke man het beste bij haar en haar gewenste leven kan passen. Ondertussen lees je ook over de levens van Midge, Blues stiefmoeder, die een groot geheim, schuldgevoel en verdriet met zich meedraagt, en over Delphine, een jonge vrouw op de vlucht voor huiselijk geweld.
Deze verschillende verhaallijnen worden in een heerlijk vlotte stijl, met verrassend veel humor en af en toe een flinke scheut drama met elkaar verbonden. De personages zijn mooi neergezet, ze maken allemaal een ontwikkeling door en hebben ieder een eigen strijd te voeren en onzekerheden te overwinnen, want hoewel hun levens heel verschillend zijn, is het voor niemand rozengeur en maneschijn. Hun worstelingen worden afgewisseld met luchtige en liefdevolle momenten, de brieven zijn een leuke toevoeging en hoewel ik niet alle ontwikkelingen volledig geloofwaardig vond en het tempo in het middenstuk wat inzakt, blijft het een boeiend, meeslepend en enerverend verhaal.
De historische context wordt overtuigend geschetst, de familie is vrij progressief, waardoor onderwerpen worden aangesneden die in die tijd waarschijnlijk niet vaak werden besproken, ze staan open voor nieuwe ideeën en maken gebruik van verworven vrijheden. Door de wisselende perspectieven wordt het een compleet geheel, de kleine cliffhangers zorgen ervoor dat je de pagina’s snel blijft omslaan en dit is een fijn en hartverwarmend verhaal over liefde, vriendschap, geluk en verlies, over hulp vragen, je hart volgen, dreiging en gerechtigheid, tweede kansen en een nieuw begin. Een origineel concept dat sterk wordt uitgewerkt, een aanrader voor liefhebbers van historische romans!
3.5-4⭐️
July 30, 2018
Set in the 1920's, the Darling Blue of the title is the main character in this book and follows the lives of not just Blue, but that of her family and friends. Blue's father, on the eve of her 21st birthday party, makes an announcement that Blue will marry the man who sends her a letter that she can fall in love with. She goes on to receive three letters, and some of the novel is about this. Blue also helps to save a woman, Delphine, from drowning in the Thames. She learns that she is in fact escaping an abusive husband. Blue's family take her in and help her. Everything seems perfect until, of course, it isn't.
It's a very bright and breezy book, filled with the hope that everyone must have felt after World War 1, but it all seemed contrived to me. Even the unpleasant 'stuff' seemed glossed over and hurried, and it didn't seem to be taken very seriously. The characters, particularly Blue's father, seemed to have very progressive opinions on certain things. Very modern, late 20th century opinions, in fact. I wonder if a character such as his would really have existed? He seemed to be very understanding of one particular plot twist which involved him and his wife, which I feel that even a man (or anyone else for that matter) today would have really struggled with. And the ending was just far too rushed and 'happily ever after'. It's a shame, because I really enjoyed the only other Tracy Rees book I've read (Amy Snow). I'll probably have to have a look at the other two books she has written between Amy Snow and this one, and see whether this is a blip. I hope so, because Amy Snow really did show promise.
Thanks to The Pigeonhole and to the author for a chance to read along with her.
It's a very bright and breezy book, filled with the hope that everyone must have felt after World War 1, but it all seemed contrived to me. Even the unpleasant 'stuff' seemed glossed over and hurried, and it didn't seem to be taken very seriously. The characters, particularly Blue's father, seemed to have very progressive opinions on certain things. Very modern, late 20th century opinions, in fact. I wonder if a character such as his would really have existed? He seemed to be very understanding of one particular plot twist which involved him and his wife, which I feel that even a man (or anyone else for that matter) today would have really struggled with. And the ending was just far too rushed and 'happily ever after'. It's a shame, because I really enjoyed the only other Tracy Rees book I've read (Amy Snow). I'll probably have to have a look at the other two books she has written between Amy Snow and this one, and see whether this is a blip. I hope so, because Amy Snow really did show promise.
Thanks to The Pigeonhole and to the author for a chance to read along with her.
July 29, 2018
Thankful to The Pigeonhole app for letting me get to enjoy another fabulous read - and this time from one of my recent favourite authors! I love the attention to detail and the style of writing that Tracy Rees displays in all her books and this was no different.
Set in 1920's London it is the story of 3 women - Blue, Midge and Delphine. Their stories are linked but they're all very different women so their stories mean that a number of topics - light and dark - can be explored. The story starts with Blue at her 21st birthday party and her father announcing that he thinks it's a great idea for possible suitors to woo his daughter by letter. She is horrified by this as marriage is the last thing on her mind. Despite her privileged lifestyle she is a very ambitious young woman and is determined to make a name for herself as a writer.
Delphine isn't part of Blue's family but soon enters their world as she plucks up the courage to run away from her abusive husband. She is shocked that this family who don't know her could be so kind and with their help she starts to get her own life back, despite always being on edge wondering if her husband will ever find her.
There are a number of issues that the women encounter along the way and set against the backdrop of 1920's London it was such an absorbing and immersive read. There is a strong focus on family and with women struggling to find their place in society in a time when there were big changes just after the war and the effects that had on those who took part, and those left behind.
Another wonderful story from Tracy Rees and I can't wait for more!
Set in 1920's London it is the story of 3 women - Blue, Midge and Delphine. Their stories are linked but they're all very different women so their stories mean that a number of topics - light and dark - can be explored. The story starts with Blue at her 21st birthday party and her father announcing that he thinks it's a great idea for possible suitors to woo his daughter by letter. She is horrified by this as marriage is the last thing on her mind. Despite her privileged lifestyle she is a very ambitious young woman and is determined to make a name for herself as a writer.
Delphine isn't part of Blue's family but soon enters their world as she plucks up the courage to run away from her abusive husband. She is shocked that this family who don't know her could be so kind and with their help she starts to get her own life back, despite always being on edge wondering if her husband will ever find her.
There are a number of issues that the women encounter along the way and set against the backdrop of 1920's London it was such an absorbing and immersive read. There is a strong focus on family and with women struggling to find their place in society in a time when there were big changes just after the war and the effects that had on those who took part, and those left behind.
Another wonderful story from Tracy Rees and I can't wait for more!
July 29, 2018
I love Tracy Rees her first two novels are brilliant, her third also good but Darling Blue was not for me. It was predicatable and the point where it was unpredicatable was a step too far in the wrong direction and it totally lost any charm I had embraced until then. If you like a novel where everything gets a happy ending you will like this. I could not warm to Blue, who should have been the heroine, she was bland. The announcement her father makes on her 21st birthday is ridiculous but It was meant to be and it could have had great potential if the suitors had chemistry. For me Delphine and Midge carried the story until the revelation about one of them was just something that I doubt anyone could accept. It turned me against a character I had rooted for. There wasn't any excitement, it was a narrative about a year in the life of this family and it never sparked any excitement for me, that does not mean it wont for others who like this kind of story. I love Tract Rees but this book is not my kind of read. I have read it in Ten staves and little by little I started to waver on my interest, I hate being negative especially as I love the author, this is just not her best but she can write, she has talent, just a little too sugary sweet in it's outcomes, not like real life at all. It wont however stop me reading Tracy her pedigree is too good.
July 30, 2018
This is a lovely, heartwarming family saga set during the 1920s in Richmond, London. It’s a story about love, courage, deception, guilt, forgiveness, hope and the importance of friendship.
It’s beautifully and very descriptively written. It was easy to picture the setting in my mind and to also visualise the cast of fascinating and realistic characters. It’s well plotted and paced. It kept my interest throughout and I was eagerly awaiting the next stave via the Pigeonhole app each day. A sign of a good book!
I have read a couple of the author’s other novels and really enjoyed them. I was hoping for a story just as absorbing and I wasn’t disappointed! I was totally immersed in this particular family’s life and was sad when I turned the last page.
It’s beautifully and very descriptively written. It was easy to picture the setting in my mind and to also visualise the cast of fascinating and realistic characters. It’s well plotted and paced. It kept my interest throughout and I was eagerly awaiting the next stave via the Pigeonhole app each day. A sign of a good book!
I have read a couple of the author’s other novels and really enjoyed them. I was hoping for a story just as absorbing and I wasn’t disappointed! I was totally immersed in this particular family’s life and was sad when I turned the last page.
July 14, 2018
Set in the 1920’s and told in alternating points of view between Blue, Midge and Delphine, 3 women that are nothing alike but brought together through love, grief and above all else – family.
The story centres around Ishbel “Blue” Camberwell, a young woman on the cusp of adulthood as she tries to find her own way into the world. She wants more from life than becoming a wife, she wants to be a writer and although money has never been an issue for her and her family she still wants to work and hold her own as a journalist.
As we follow her through the trials and tribulations that come hand in hand with the courting world and the attentions of several young men she comes to the rescue of the quite, scared, stuttering Delphine.
Delphine has escaped an abusive marriage and has run away when she is rescued by Blue and her sisters. And as Delphine story unfolds she soon becomes fast friends with Blue, Midge and the Camberwell family.
Although the Camberwell’s appear the perfect family who want for nothing their lives have been anything but perfect. A family who have suffered tragic losses and 1 family member with a secret so great that it could shatter it all.
The three woman’s stories intertwine bringing them all closer and at the same time putting them all in danger, the story plays out full of courage, hope, love and grief into an unforgettable conclusion.
Be prepared to be swept off your feet and submerge yourself into a stunning setting as well as back in time to the 1920’s where women are finding their independence and a bobbed haircut was considered outlandish. Where writing becomes a life line and the past that won’t stay in the past.
I have read all of Tracy Rees’s books and whilst Amy Snow remains my favourite Darling Blue is a worthy runner-up! Beautifully written and researched this book will restore your faith in true love.
The story centres around Ishbel “Blue” Camberwell, a young woman on the cusp of adulthood as she tries to find her own way into the world. She wants more from life than becoming a wife, she wants to be a writer and although money has never been an issue for her and her family she still wants to work and hold her own as a journalist.
As we follow her through the trials and tribulations that come hand in hand with the courting world and the attentions of several young men she comes to the rescue of the quite, scared, stuttering Delphine.
Delphine has escaped an abusive marriage and has run away when she is rescued by Blue and her sisters. And as Delphine story unfolds she soon becomes fast friends with Blue, Midge and the Camberwell family.
Although the Camberwell’s appear the perfect family who want for nothing their lives have been anything but perfect. A family who have suffered tragic losses and 1 family member with a secret so great that it could shatter it all.
The three woman’s stories intertwine bringing them all closer and at the same time putting them all in danger, the story plays out full of courage, hope, love and grief into an unforgettable conclusion.
Be prepared to be swept off your feet and submerge yourself into a stunning setting as well as back in time to the 1920’s where women are finding their independence and a bobbed haircut was considered outlandish. Where writing becomes a life line and the past that won’t stay in the past.
I have read all of Tracy Rees’s books and whilst Amy Snow remains my favourite Darling Blue is a worthy runner-up! Beautifully written and researched this book will restore your faith in true love.
July 15, 2018
After reading the sweet and romantic debut novel Amy Snow from Tracy Rees, I was excited to get my hands on Darling Blue. Though it´s not my usual style of fiction, I found Darling Blue to be an enjoyable read. The main character, the dreamy and warm hearted Blue is horrified when on her 21st birthday party her father announces that her hand in marriage is to be won through a letter. Though Blue´s initial reaction is one of horror, she learns to enjoy the adventure that this announcement sends her on, going through the 1920s equivalent of online dating.
Through the book, we get to meet a multitude of characters and see the story from the viewpoint of other characters in the novel. I found the different points of view to be quite refreshing. Sometimes I found it a bit tedious that all the main characters were so friendly and warm and I felt like their opinions were often not to be typical of the early 20th century. However, I felt that Rees´s attention to detail was meticulous and the book was a love letter to her old hometown of Richmond. I look forward to reading future books by Tracy Rees.
Through the book, we get to meet a multitude of characters and see the story from the viewpoint of other characters in the novel. I found the different points of view to be quite refreshing. Sometimes I found it a bit tedious that all the main characters were so friendly and warm and I felt like their opinions were often not to be typical of the early 20th century. However, I felt that Rees´s attention to detail was meticulous and the book was a love letter to her old hometown of Richmond. I look forward to reading future books by Tracy Rees.
August 1, 2018
This novel is a delight. Tracy Rees takes us deep into the heart of the 1920s with all its glamour and confusion. In Blue, Midge and Delphine she gives us three remarkable women, each fighting their own unique battle for identity and happiness in this new age. Rees brings into sharp focus the social differences and dilemmas of the time by giving room for the haves and have-nots, the good and the bad, to play out their stories in both the leafy glades of Richmond and London's darker heart. Darling Blue is a clever book that's a joy to read and the drama rises by subtle, tiny increments until, at its climax, you have to remind yourself to breathe. These three women will stay with you for a long, long time.
December 21, 2023
Rahulik samas põnev ja soe lugu. Haarab samm-sammult kaasa ja mida rohkem lõpu poole, seda enam tahtsin raamatut kätte haarata. Ükski küsimus ei jäänud õhku ja lugu koorus lahti väga loomulikult, alguses pikalt pikalt hoogu kogudes. Vahepeal imestasin, et kuidas üks nii rahulik raamat saab põnevust pakkuda, aga kui vaja mõttepausi oma elust, ilma enda mõttemaailma koormamata muude raamatust tulevate põnevustega, siis see raamat on ideaalne peatuspaik. Pole ammu tundnud siirast põnevust ka miskitkellegi armastusloo peale.
Kui pole selliseid raamatuid lugenud, aga meeldib vahepeal uusi lugemisi proovida, siis soovituse pealt kõige parem katsetada.
Kui pole selliseid raamatuid lugenud, aga meeldib vahepeal uusi lugemisi proovida, siis soovituse pealt kõige parem katsetada.
January 15, 2023
I really liked this historical saga. Dearest Blue is not just about Blue, but about so many more characters. But, it dosen`t get tiredsome or confusing. Because the author uses time to let us get to know each character. Tough the book felt a tad bit long but oh well.
November 2, 2018
Tracy Rees' fourth book Darling Blue takes her readers to 1920's London and more specifically the affluent area of Richmond. The 'Darling Blue' of the title is Ishbel Camberwell known as Blue to her family and friends, the reason for her name becomes apparent much later on and is quite a sweet sentiment. When we are first introduced to the Camberwell's it is on the occasion of Blue's birthday and as people gather to celebrate, Kenneth, the patriarch of the family, stands on the stairs and makes an announcement. Potential suitors for Blue must woo her. They must win over her affections in the form of a love letter which in turn must be written anonymously, the winner will be announced in a years time. Blue is horrified at her father's surprise. She does not have marriage in her sights at all, preferring to follow her dreams to become a writer. She feels she has been backed into a corner and is now under pressure to conform. But that is not in her nature. The announcement may have captured the imagination of the opposite sex but she rather wishes the words had never entered her father's head.
Following on from this opening I presumed this book would closely follow Blue as she engages with various suitors through letters that may diverge into something deeper and to some extent this did occur but thankfully this was not the entire plot of the book. Given the book was well over 500 pages, and heading towards 600, this aspect of the storyline couldn't have been stretched out so thinly over such length. Truthfully, I did think this book was too long. I understand the author took us through the four seasons compromising of four parts which form the backdrop to a year in the Camberwell's lives but there were aspects of the story that just didn't go anywhere and had far too much detail which led to not much happening. Certain parts could have been curtailed in turn leading to a shortening of the book and therefore more action could have occurred. I read someone else's comments on this book saying she was rapidly turning the pages to see what would happen and I was too in a similar fashion and like this person says it was to see would something occur to catch my breath, to leave me astounded, to leave me guessing but this didn't happen. Admittedly in the last 150-200 pages the book did pick up pace and in my mind was definitely the strongest section of the book. It really held my interest and all the story lines began to bear fruit in some surprising and heartfelt ways even if some had been quite tedious at various points during the book.
Darling Blue branches off into three distinct strands following the lives of three different women who are united through family and friendship. It is an observation of family life and how even though it may be the roaring twenties and Blue does come from an affluent family, all is not as it seems and behind closed doors people are struggling on a daily basis. Blue, herself was a character I did warm to but then over the course of the book my opinion of her swayed back and forth. I loved the fact she wanted to follow her own dreams and aspirations in becoming a writer. She was clearly a person who went against societies expectations and she wasn't going to conform to the norm. Losing her mother at a young age could have made her a person who became lost but thanks to stepmother Midge she had an anchor and a united family. Her sister Merrigan had done the usual thing of getting married and starting a family and had done what was expected of her. But Blue questions why should she follow suit? I did think she had a lack of personal control when it came to Kenneth's surprise and that given time to reflect she should have been stronger and stood up for herself and said no I don't want this to happen. Given she was a free spirit who knew what she wanted I felt this went a little against her character. Her dalliances through the form of letters didn't fully engage me and I wasn't as hooked on this aspect of the storyline as I felt I should have been given it formed a major part of the premise of the book.
I much preferred when Blue got a six month contract with the local paper and her interests and ambitions beyond that of her family began to become clear. She wasn't like a fish out of water in her job even though she got the worst most light and fluffy stories to write about. She sensed this could only be a stepping stone to even greater things. One thing I did admire about Blue was her kindness and compassion when it comes to her family and friends. She had a sweet, soft and sensitive side to her nature and she always worried about others and wanted to hep people if at all possible in their times of need. Most noticeably when it came to Delphine, but also her childhood friend Foster whose sister Tabitha was also a close friend. The same can't be said though when it comes to Midge. The storyline regarding Foster I did guess at fairly early on and I do think it was handled with tact and respect given to the situation especially considering the potential outcome because of restrictions and in a way beliefs and superstitions of the time.
Delphine as mentioned above comes into the Camberwell's lives very unexepedetly. She was a character I wanted to know more about and delve deeper into what motivated her. I thoroughly enjoyed her storyline and it was good to see the theme of domestic violence being dealt with in a period story given it features so much in modern day books. It makes the reader realise that sadly this is a long standing issue and that there will always be people in need of refuge and a place where they can feel safe. The Camberwell's gave this to Delphine but she was still a person living in constant fear of discovery and retribution, yet I felt the Camberwell's and her new employer’s would always have her back.
Yes in my mind her arrival and then Blue more or less adopting her into the family seemed a bit far fetched given the huge differences in their backgrounds and social classes. But on reflection I think maybe the Camberwell's were that type of family, that in times of need they unite together and they wouldn't like to see anyone suffering. I loved observing the transformation in Delphine. To go from a stuttering bundle of nerves to a woman confident and capable in her own skin was amazing. When the Camberwell's needed their own comfort and support she was able to return all they had done for her. Delphine's storyline wasn't without its dramatics and I loved how things took on a few twists and turns with regard to her towards the end.
My most favourite character of all was Midge, Kenneth's second wife and therefore stepmother to Blue and Merrigan. She knows she can never replaced their beloved mother Audra but she feels for the most part that she has developed a good relationship with her stepchildren. I really liked how Midge wasn't portrayed as the evil stepmother that nobody liked, instead she was a part of the family much loved and respected. But poor old Midge is tormented and she can't share her worries with anybody. To be honest I thought she drove herself made worrying and fretting over things that she had created all in her head and that others would give scant thought to. That was until things came out into the open. I knew there had to be more going on than at first meets the eye and as we delve deeper into her mind things slowly started to become clear. In doing so I felt the utmost of pity for her. I wanted her to feel happy and contented and not living in fear that she would be cast out. She didn't realise how much she was loved and appreciated and that all could always be forgiven no matter how traumatic, upsetting and devastating one's actions could be.
Midge behind it all was crying out for help and a shoulder to cry on but I felt the family were so caught up in their own little trials and tribulations that Midge was often taken for granted and in some ways left on the sidelines. If they had been more aware of her plight things mightn't have taken on the heartbreaking twists and turns that followed. Even when revelations about Midge became apparent I didn't lose any respect for her instead I grew to love her as a character more simply because she was lost and overwhelmed and she felt she had no other choice and in my mind she didn't deserve blame. Although her abrupt decision was something I felt was too rushed and a judgement made in haste that she would later come to regret. I felt she shouldn't have given up her safety net that easily.
Overall Darling Blue was a good read despite some of my misgivings as mentioned above. I don't think it is the strongest book the author has written, Amy Snow and Florence Grace still remain my firm favourites. It was an interesting read but it needed a bit more mystery than was present. It was very character driven and any mystery that was apparent was resolved far too quickly given such time was put into the lead up. I'll be interested to see what era Tracy Rees will venture to with her next read and to see will even more mystery appear to keep the readers guessing until the very end.
Following on from this opening I presumed this book would closely follow Blue as she engages with various suitors through letters that may diverge into something deeper and to some extent this did occur but thankfully this was not the entire plot of the book. Given the book was well over 500 pages, and heading towards 600, this aspect of the storyline couldn't have been stretched out so thinly over such length. Truthfully, I did think this book was too long. I understand the author took us through the four seasons compromising of four parts which form the backdrop to a year in the Camberwell's lives but there were aspects of the story that just didn't go anywhere and had far too much detail which led to not much happening. Certain parts could have been curtailed in turn leading to a shortening of the book and therefore more action could have occurred. I read someone else's comments on this book saying she was rapidly turning the pages to see what would happen and I was too in a similar fashion and like this person says it was to see would something occur to catch my breath, to leave me astounded, to leave me guessing but this didn't happen. Admittedly in the last 150-200 pages the book did pick up pace and in my mind was definitely the strongest section of the book. It really held my interest and all the story lines began to bear fruit in some surprising and heartfelt ways even if some had been quite tedious at various points during the book.
Darling Blue branches off into three distinct strands following the lives of three different women who are united through family and friendship. It is an observation of family life and how even though it may be the roaring twenties and Blue does come from an affluent family, all is not as it seems and behind closed doors people are struggling on a daily basis. Blue, herself was a character I did warm to but then over the course of the book my opinion of her swayed back and forth. I loved the fact she wanted to follow her own dreams and aspirations in becoming a writer. She was clearly a person who went against societies expectations and she wasn't going to conform to the norm. Losing her mother at a young age could have made her a person who became lost but thanks to stepmother Midge she had an anchor and a united family. Her sister Merrigan had done the usual thing of getting married and starting a family and had done what was expected of her. But Blue questions why should she follow suit? I did think she had a lack of personal control when it came to Kenneth's surprise and that given time to reflect she should have been stronger and stood up for herself and said no I don't want this to happen. Given she was a free spirit who knew what she wanted I felt this went a little against her character. Her dalliances through the form of letters didn't fully engage me and I wasn't as hooked on this aspect of the storyline as I felt I should have been given it formed a major part of the premise of the book.
I much preferred when Blue got a six month contract with the local paper and her interests and ambitions beyond that of her family began to become clear. She wasn't like a fish out of water in her job even though she got the worst most light and fluffy stories to write about. She sensed this could only be a stepping stone to even greater things. One thing I did admire about Blue was her kindness and compassion when it comes to her family and friends. She had a sweet, soft and sensitive side to her nature and she always worried about others and wanted to hep people if at all possible in their times of need. Most noticeably when it came to Delphine, but also her childhood friend Foster whose sister Tabitha was also a close friend. The same can't be said though when it comes to Midge. The storyline regarding Foster I did guess at fairly early on and I do think it was handled with tact and respect given to the situation especially considering the potential outcome because of restrictions and in a way beliefs and superstitions of the time.
Delphine as mentioned above comes into the Camberwell's lives very unexepedetly. She was a character I wanted to know more about and delve deeper into what motivated her. I thoroughly enjoyed her storyline and it was good to see the theme of domestic violence being dealt with in a period story given it features so much in modern day books. It makes the reader realise that sadly this is a long standing issue and that there will always be people in need of refuge and a place where they can feel safe. The Camberwell's gave this to Delphine but she was still a person living in constant fear of discovery and retribution, yet I felt the Camberwell's and her new employer’s would always have her back.
Yes in my mind her arrival and then Blue more or less adopting her into the family seemed a bit far fetched given the huge differences in their backgrounds and social classes. But on reflection I think maybe the Camberwell's were that type of family, that in times of need they unite together and they wouldn't like to see anyone suffering. I loved observing the transformation in Delphine. To go from a stuttering bundle of nerves to a woman confident and capable in her own skin was amazing. When the Camberwell's needed their own comfort and support she was able to return all they had done for her. Delphine's storyline wasn't without its dramatics and I loved how things took on a few twists and turns with regard to her towards the end.
My most favourite character of all was Midge, Kenneth's second wife and therefore stepmother to Blue and Merrigan. She knows she can never replaced their beloved mother Audra but she feels for the most part that she has developed a good relationship with her stepchildren. I really liked how Midge wasn't portrayed as the evil stepmother that nobody liked, instead she was a part of the family much loved and respected. But poor old Midge is tormented and she can't share her worries with anybody. To be honest I thought she drove herself made worrying and fretting over things that she had created all in her head and that others would give scant thought to. That was until things came out into the open. I knew there had to be more going on than at first meets the eye and as we delve deeper into her mind things slowly started to become clear. In doing so I felt the utmost of pity for her. I wanted her to feel happy and contented and not living in fear that she would be cast out. She didn't realise how much she was loved and appreciated and that all could always be forgiven no matter how traumatic, upsetting and devastating one's actions could be.
Midge behind it all was crying out for help and a shoulder to cry on but I felt the family were so caught up in their own little trials and tribulations that Midge was often taken for granted and in some ways left on the sidelines. If they had been more aware of her plight things mightn't have taken on the heartbreaking twists and turns that followed. Even when revelations about Midge became apparent I didn't lose any respect for her instead I grew to love her as a character more simply because she was lost and overwhelmed and she felt she had no other choice and in my mind she didn't deserve blame. Although her abrupt decision was something I felt was too rushed and a judgement made in haste that she would later come to regret. I felt she shouldn't have given up her safety net that easily.
Overall Darling Blue was a good read despite some of my misgivings as mentioned above. I don't think it is the strongest book the author has written, Amy Snow and Florence Grace still remain my firm favourites. It was an interesting read but it needed a bit more mystery than was present. It was very character driven and any mystery that was apparent was resolved far too quickly given such time was put into the lead up. I'll be interested to see what era Tracy Rees will venture to with her next read and to see will even more mystery appear to keep the readers guessing until the very end.
May 1, 2025
Na een enorme leesdip ben ik weer begonnen. Dit boek pakte me gelijk en was heerlijk geschreven. Ik zat er gelijk in. Heel mooi verhaal met ontzettend aardige personages (bijna allemaal dan🤭) ik heb echt weer lekker meegeleefd!
February 18, 2024
Het was een mooi verhaal en ik begon eraan met heel hoge verwachtingen want haar vorig boek ‘Brievenspoor’ was één van de beste boeken die ik al gelezen had. Misschien lag het aan die verwachtingen dat het me nu wat tegenviel. Het kwam maar traag op gang en ik had moeite om er mijn gedachten bij te houden. Nochtans was het een erg liefdevol verhaal met leuke personages en vlot geschreven. Ook de korte hoofdstukken maken het lezen vlotter en luchtiger. Toch lag het me iets minder. Maar haar stijl bevalt me en ik ga zeker haar volgende boeken nog lezen.
April 7, 2024
This book was not what I was expecting it to be at all. I was anticipating a gentle romance with some fairytale-ish elements, but what I got was more like a family saga. There are romance elements, and the overall tone of the writing is very light, but the book deals with really harrowing subjects such as domestic violence, miscarriage, adoption, betrayal, and the challenges facing homosexuals at a time when homosexuality was still criminalised. I frequently found myself in tears whilst reading it.
The story is told through the eyes of three main characters: Blue, Delphine and Midge. I was honestly a little disappointed when I reached the first POV switch, because I was hoping the novel would stay with Blue throughout. As a character, she reminded me a lot of Austen's Emma and I was hoping for a love story, but although that was part of the novel it was not the biggest part. In the end, I didn't mind the POV switching at all.
In fact, the three stories interweave and complement each other perfectly, describing every aspect of love and guilt and loss, until I felt as though I were watching a comprehensive exploration of what it meant to be a woman in the 1920s.
The novel has a very strong sense of time and place throughout. The costume, food and events of the time have obviously been well-researched, and they're woven into the plot in a way that feels natural rather than obtrusive.
It all combined to make an unexpectedly uplifting story. I wasn't expecting to love it as much as I did, but it was so surprising and novel that I couldn't help but be swept away by it.
The characterisation was excellent. The psychology of each character was intricately crafted, and the characters seemed to mesh together so beautifully to form a family. Foster was a particular favourite of mine, and Foley was terrifyingly believable. Midge... Well, what do I say about her without spoiling the plot? It was amazing and intense and wonderful.
The story is told through the eyes of three main characters: Blue, Delphine and Midge. I was honestly a little disappointed when I reached the first POV switch, because I was hoping the novel would stay with Blue throughout. As a character, she reminded me a lot of Austen's Emma and I was hoping for a love story, but although that was part of the novel it was not the biggest part. In the end, I didn't mind the POV switching at all.
In fact, the three stories interweave and complement each other perfectly, describing every aspect of love and guilt and loss, until I felt as though I were watching a comprehensive exploration of what it meant to be a woman in the 1920s.
The novel has a very strong sense of time and place throughout. The costume, food and events of the time have obviously been well-researched, and they're woven into the plot in a way that feels natural rather than obtrusive.
It all combined to make an unexpectedly uplifting story. I wasn't expecting to love it as much as I did, but it was so surprising and novel that I couldn't help but be swept away by it.
The characterisation was excellent. The psychology of each character was intricately crafted, and the characters seemed to mesh together so beautifully to form a family. Foster was a particular favourite of mine, and Foley was terrifyingly believable. Midge... Well, what do I say about her without spoiling the plot? It was amazing and intense and wonderful.
November 16, 2018
When Ishbel Camberwell, affectionately known as 'Darling Blue' turns twenty-one, her father makes a surprise announcement, that he will give Blue's hand in marriage to the suitor who wins her affections by writing anonymous love letters to woo her heart. This causes Blue some consternation as she isn't actively searching for a partner, she would much rather pursue her ambitions as a writer. However, this in 1925, and getting an opportunity as a journalist isn't going to come easily and living a life of moneyed privilege could be something of an obstacle to Blue's ambition.
What then follows is a delightful family saga which perfectly encapsulates the long, hot summer of 1925, and of the trials and tribulations which seem to follow the Camberwell family. Their generous friendship, emphasises the kindness of their spirit, however, these kind gestures, so well meant, will see the family embroiled in some rather dangerous activity.
I really loved spending time with Blue and her erstwhile suitors, and yet, the strength of the novel lies in the authors ability to create such strong characters and to allow the history of the period to come alive in careful descriptions of both place and people. It's not all light-hearted froth and pretty dresses, as the novel touches on some quite serious issues, particularly post-natal depression and domestic abuse and puts them into the context of the time.
Darling Blue is quite a hefty read coming in at over 560 pages in the paperback so it needs a fair amount of investment in terms of time to read, but overall, I thought the journey was well worth it.
Darling Blue is my favourite of this author's historical novels to date.
What then follows is a delightful family saga which perfectly encapsulates the long, hot summer of 1925, and of the trials and tribulations which seem to follow the Camberwell family. Their generous friendship, emphasises the kindness of their spirit, however, these kind gestures, so well meant, will see the family embroiled in some rather dangerous activity.
I really loved spending time with Blue and her erstwhile suitors, and yet, the strength of the novel lies in the authors ability to create such strong characters and to allow the history of the period to come alive in careful descriptions of both place and people. It's not all light-hearted froth and pretty dresses, as the novel touches on some quite serious issues, particularly post-natal depression and domestic abuse and puts them into the context of the time.
Darling Blue is quite a hefty read coming in at over 560 pages in the paperback so it needs a fair amount of investment in terms of time to read, but overall, I thought the journey was well worth it.
Darling Blue is my favourite of this author's historical novels to date.
did-not-finish
November 28, 2018Did not finish. It isn't the book. It's me. My poor brain is end of term tired and is struggling and I need to get it back to library. Will borrow it again at some point and try again as I am intrigued.
April 1, 2025
Langdradig maar het bleef wel boeien
September 23, 2019
Characters great, believable on the whole. Story weaving very clever. Didn't feel like you knew what the ending would be. Would recommend to others.
October 1, 2018
"Darling Blue", set in 1920's London, follows the story of three women - Blue, Midge and Delphine and their families. It starts at Blue's 21st birthday - her "coming of age", when her father announces that the possible suitors should woe his daughter by letters. While marriage is not what Blue is looking for at the moment - she'd rather focus on her career as a writer - she's horrified. But what is done is done and what is said is said and soon Blue receives a few letters that are going to change her life.
Soon after her birthday she meets Delphine, who has escaped a very abusive marriage - she never wants to return to her previous life but is it possible? However, no matter what, Blue and her family takes Delphine under their wings.
Tracy Rees takes us again on a journey in the past, in a different time - zone again. This time it's Richmond in London in 1920's and, as usual, she presents us with beautiful, vivid and rich descriptions of the setting, the weather, the clothes and she easily captures the atmosphere of the times, and she pays a great attention to deatils and has a great eye for them. It was, on the surface, a light - hearted story with lovely and kind characters, but deep down touching upon some serious issues, such like bullying or post - natal depression. To be honest, such depth and seriousness really surprised me, especially after the light beginning, but Tracy Rees has already got me used to the fact that she's not afraid to write about some more sensitive stuff.
This book follows stories of three different women. Blue's real name is Ishbel and she's adored everywhere. Her stepmother Midge has problems of her own and she has a huge secret. But as much as you could think it's going to be about Darling Blue, it equally focuses on the lives of Midge and Delphine, and it was a great move, to be honest, as those two women add tons of significance to this book. In my opinion, they were simply better developed and rounded than Blue, although please don't get me wrong, she was also an interesting character that had something to say, and her desire to work and be independent was adorable. On the other hand, she was a little too self - absorbed and I had a feeling that she likes when the whole world is running in circles around her. But there was enough empathy in her, she was a great friend and open person and it was not hard to like her.
But altogether I only had a feeling that the characters were just too simple for such an author as Tracy Rees - they were either perfect and incredibly kind, or awfully unpleasant, and sometimes this just felt unrealistic.
Basically, it was a story about one year in a family's life, though a very turbulent one. Mostly, it was well paced though there were some moments that if dragged a bit. Also, as much as I love a happy end, here it left me feel a little insatiable as the actions of one of the characters were forgotten quite quickly and quite easily, and she was welcomed back to the family without a word, and it was this little bit unrealistic, non - credible and little bit rushed, and I also had a feeling that maybe the author didn't have a better idea how to solve this particular subplot? Also, as much as I appreciated the mysteries in this book, I quickly guessed what was going to happen. I also had a feeling that there was a very long build - up to them and then, when it finally came to the revelations, it was too rapid and not dealt with, just done and forgotten.
"Darling Blue" is a book that isn't mostly about actions and events but mostly about characters, feelings and emotions. They are written in a gentle and captivating way that makes the pace bearable and I was actually glued to the pages - yes, waiting for something to happen, as I could feel with my whole body that there is something going to happen, but at the same time perfectly entertained by the distinctive voices of the characters. It was a great historical fiction about family, love, friendship, grief and forgiveness, with a great sense of period and written in a beautiful, colourful and detailed way that is going to sweep you off your feet for a few hours. While "Amy Snow", Tracy Rees's debut novel remains still my favourite of hers, I can say that with "Darling Blue" she's following closely. Recommended!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
October 29, 2018
Blue Camberwell lives quite the charmed life. Then at her 21st birthday party, her father Kenneth sets the young men of Richmond the ultimate task. Impress Blue by letter and earn her hand in marriage. What a way to start, what becomes a most eventful year in the young lady's life.
While Blue is the central character to this novel, set in 1920's Britain, two other women have big roles to play too. Blue lives with her family at Ryan's Castle, a plush house in Richmond. They are well to do but not blind to those around them. The Camberwells are a close-knit family but not without their issues. Blue's stepmother Midge should be on cloud nine, married to Kenneth and stepmother to Blue and her sister Merry who both adore her. Instead, Midge is insecure, feels like she's living in the shadow of Kenneth's first wife and questions how he could love her. Add to this, a huge heartache, and Midge is truly a woman on the edge.
Delphine Foley has found the strength to escape her vicious husband. When her escape route doesn't go to plan she finds herself in Richmond, having been rescued by Blue, Merry and their friend Tabitha. She tells them her story and she is quickly moved into Ryans Castle and under the wings of the Camberwells.
I loved this, the supplementary characters all had vital roles and added such depth. The descriptions of 1920's Britain, the lifestyle and the role of women were wonderfully portrayed. The author had twists and turns but what stood out most for me were the feelings depicted. A thoroughly enjoyable read that I would definitely recommend.
While Blue is the central character to this novel, set in 1920's Britain, two other women have big roles to play too. Blue lives with her family at Ryan's Castle, a plush house in Richmond. They are well to do but not blind to those around them. The Camberwells are a close-knit family but not without their issues. Blue's stepmother Midge should be on cloud nine, married to Kenneth and stepmother to Blue and her sister Merry who both adore her. Instead, Midge is insecure, feels like she's living in the shadow of Kenneth's first wife and questions how he could love her. Add to this, a huge heartache, and Midge is truly a woman on the edge.
Delphine Foley has found the strength to escape her vicious husband. When her escape route doesn't go to plan she finds herself in Richmond, having been rescued by Blue, Merry and their friend Tabitha. She tells them her story and she is quickly moved into Ryans Castle and under the wings of the Camberwells.
I loved this, the supplementary characters all had vital roles and added such depth. The descriptions of 1920's Britain, the lifestyle and the role of women were wonderfully portrayed. The author had twists and turns but what stood out most for me were the feelings depicted. A thoroughly enjoyable read that I would definitely recommend.
October 30, 2018
I’ve read all Tracey Rees’ books and this is definitely my favourite. It was poetry to my senses. It was just gorgeous. It was beautifully written and the story was so very lovely.
January 5, 2020
It is 1923. The First World War is still in the minds of some people but life has moved on and this is the era of the “Bright Young Things” and we get to meet three very different women experiencing their own lives in very different ways but all been drawn together by Darling Blue.
Blue is the main character of the novel, as the title suggests, Ishbel known as Blue turns 21 and at her party, her father announces that the man who can capture Blue’s heart by love letter can have his permission to marry her. Blue is aghast at the statement but that does not stop her being intrigued by the men who do send the letters.
Midge has found love quite late in life but she doesn’t think she deserves it. She is the second wife of Blue’s father and whilst she loves the man and his daughters wholeheartedly she does not think it is reciprocated.
Delphine, desperate to escape her trapped love falls into the path of Blue who takes her under her wing and sees that she never returns to the past she is trying to escape.
All three of these women are having different experiences of love, romance, marriage and life, Tracy Rees has woven a tale of differences and similarities by these three women in this novel.
Not wanting to shy away from matters which were not named in the 1920s but Tracy tackles domestic violence, homosexuality, postnatal depression and women trying to find their way in the world of work. Topics that perhaps some might find depressing, but it is far from that. It is a quiet book which tells a simple tale, with some perhaps rather interesting diversions and the odd little twist and thrill of a turn it is a read to be savoured and reflected on once complete.
Tracy Rees books change as each one is published, none of them fit into the genre box that many probably want it to, but that is the beauty we discover different stories told in many ways that affect us all so differently.
I will certainly be intrigued as to what comes next from Tracy.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Blue is the main character of the novel, as the title suggests, Ishbel known as Blue turns 21 and at her party, her father announces that the man who can capture Blue’s heart by love letter can have his permission to marry her. Blue is aghast at the statement but that does not stop her being intrigued by the men who do send the letters.
Midge has found love quite late in life but she doesn’t think she deserves it. She is the second wife of Blue’s father and whilst she loves the man and his daughters wholeheartedly she does not think it is reciprocated.
Delphine, desperate to escape her trapped love falls into the path of Blue who takes her under her wing and sees that she never returns to the past she is trying to escape.
All three of these women are having different experiences of love, romance, marriage and life, Tracy Rees has woven a tale of differences and similarities by these three women in this novel.
Not wanting to shy away from matters which were not named in the 1920s but Tracy tackles domestic violence, homosexuality, postnatal depression and women trying to find their way in the world of work. Topics that perhaps some might find depressing, but it is far from that. It is a quiet book which tells a simple tale, with some perhaps rather interesting diversions and the odd little twist and thrill of a turn it is a read to be savoured and reflected on once complete.
Tracy Rees books change as each one is published, none of them fit into the genre box that many probably want it to, but that is the beauty we discover different stories told in many ways that affect us all so differently.
I will certainly be intrigued as to what comes next from Tracy.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
July 17, 2018
Darling Blue was not what I expected, though it wasn't any less for it - in fact it was more. From the blurb I was expecting a flapper version of a Regency romance, but this is a million times more than that. It has depth, a wealth of complex characters and stories, and a much more realistic plot. The way Blue's own story is intertwined with those of her family and friends was unexpected but deeply interesting. It's the kind of book I would have devoured once upon a time, before chronic illness affected my reading habits, making me swap complex historical sagas for light romance and YA fiction. So reading it was not easy for me, but it was rewarding, to find that I could still follow multiple story lines, I could remember who everyone was, and these things are testament to Rees' great writing.
July 30, 2018
I read this a stave at a time through Pigeonhole and the end of each stave left me wanting to read more. This is basically a novel about 3 very different women, Blue the 21 year old who wants to find love and does so where she might least expect it, Midge her stepmother who is hiding a terrible secret and Delphine who escapes a life of poverty married to a vicious bully to become “part of the family”. The author gives a good description of life in the 1920s and the reader really gets to know the different characters. I did suspect what Midge’s secret was a little before it was revealed and, in some ways, the way that the family forgive her and welcome her back was a little incredible. I have to question whether this would happen in real life. Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know these characters and would recommend this book.
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