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The Maids of Biddenden
‘There is no me; there is no you.
There is only us.’
The Maids of Biddenden is inspired by the real-life story of conjoined twins Mary and Eliza Chulkhurst, born in 1100 into a wealthy family from a small Kent village.
Joined at the hip, the sisters overcome fear and hostility to grow into gifted and much-loved women – one a talented musician and song-writer, the other a caring healer and grower of medicinal plants. Entangled in the struggles for power and influence of the great Kent nobles of the time, they achieve much in their lifetimes and leave behind a legacy in Biddenden that survives to this day.
This is the heart-warming and inspirational story of two remarkable women leading one joint life, challenging adversity to become the best they can be.
There is only us.’
The Maids of Biddenden is inspired by the real-life story of conjoined twins Mary and Eliza Chulkhurst, born in 1100 into a wealthy family from a small Kent village.
Joined at the hip, the sisters overcome fear and hostility to grow into gifted and much-loved women – one a talented musician and song-writer, the other a caring healer and grower of medicinal plants. Entangled in the struggles for power and influence of the great Kent nobles of the time, they achieve much in their lifetimes and leave behind a legacy in Biddenden that survives to this day.
This is the heart-warming and inspirational story of two remarkable women leading one joint life, challenging adversity to become the best they can be.
372 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
May 14, 2022
Two young girls sat cross-legged side-by-side each playing with a small rag doll. "As they moved their arms to play with the dolls, each anticipated the other's actions, an unconscious dance performed between them." These two young girls, born in the village of Biddenden in Kent in the summer of 1100, were twins conjoined at the hip.
Eliza and Mary Chulkhurst spent the first six years of their lives at Malling Abbey hidden from view, their upkeep funded by Thomas Chulkhurst, widower and wealthy farmer. It was thought that "they are made comfortable in their confinement...their corporeal selves are hale and hearty...they are of sound mind...minds wholly separate...Mary is quiet, lets Eliza do the talking." Daily, Sister Agnes took them for a walk the length of the abbey walls. Most impressive was Agnes's garden of healing herbs and plants used to remedy the abbey's medical ills. She was "their sole advocate amongst the obedientiaries."
According to Bishop Gundulf, the abbey's coffers were being stretched to the limit by the presence of the now six year olds. Merchants had been forbidden from visiting, thereby hampering commerce. The school to educate oblates and novices had closed, lest the pupils hear "the maids". Would the payment for the maids be discontinued since Thomas Chulkhurst's second marriage? The decision made would ultimately change the trajectory of Eliza and Mary's young lives.
With Bishop Gundulf's protectorate in hand, a hired oxcart drove Eliza and Mary to the Chulkhurst longhouse, Eliza and Mary hidden within, Sister Agnes and Stepmother Gudrun walking alongside. "Gudrun is neither mother nor kin to the maids." Her goals were nefarious. The next hotly contested hurdle was the meeting of the Hundred Court, where the village elders must determine whether the maids could move freely within the environs of Biddenden. "Are we now to shun those whose appearance displeases us?...Appraise others by their character, not the fineness of their features."
Many opportunities were denied to Eliza and Mary, however, unimaginable doors opened. Gifted with a lyre, later a vielle, Eliza became a well respected musician and writer of songs/poems. Mary became a skilled healer building upon observations made at the knee of Sister Agnes in her medicinal plant garden. Upon the deaths of Eliza and Mary, their joint will stipulated that rent collected from their lands, called "The Bread and Cheese Lands" would be used by the church wardens to minister to the elderly and poor. Donations are collected each Easter. This tradition, started nine hundred years ago, still continues.....
"The Maids of Biddenden" by GD Harper is a historical fiction read not to be missed! "When we eat our bread and onion, Eliza gulps always eating faster than Mary, when Eliza is full, Mary says she is too, even if she had only had a few mouthfuls..." "How many children are attached to each other?...That is why everyone cries when they meet us..." "Can two young maids really strike such fear in the heart of stout people?" Not if strong-willed individuals champion the acceptance of those of us who are physically or mentally challenged.
Thank you Cameron Publicity & Marketing Ltd and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Eliza and Mary Chulkhurst spent the first six years of their lives at Malling Abbey hidden from view, their upkeep funded by Thomas Chulkhurst, widower and wealthy farmer. It was thought that "they are made comfortable in their confinement...their corporeal selves are hale and hearty...they are of sound mind...minds wholly separate...Mary is quiet, lets Eliza do the talking." Daily, Sister Agnes took them for a walk the length of the abbey walls. Most impressive was Agnes's garden of healing herbs and plants used to remedy the abbey's medical ills. She was "their sole advocate amongst the obedientiaries."
According to Bishop Gundulf, the abbey's coffers were being stretched to the limit by the presence of the now six year olds. Merchants had been forbidden from visiting, thereby hampering commerce. The school to educate oblates and novices had closed, lest the pupils hear "the maids". Would the payment for the maids be discontinued since Thomas Chulkhurst's second marriage? The decision made would ultimately change the trajectory of Eliza and Mary's young lives.
With Bishop Gundulf's protectorate in hand, a hired oxcart drove Eliza and Mary to the Chulkhurst longhouse, Eliza and Mary hidden within, Sister Agnes and Stepmother Gudrun walking alongside. "Gudrun is neither mother nor kin to the maids." Her goals were nefarious. The next hotly contested hurdle was the meeting of the Hundred Court, where the village elders must determine whether the maids could move freely within the environs of Biddenden. "Are we now to shun those whose appearance displeases us?...Appraise others by their character, not the fineness of their features."
Many opportunities were denied to Eliza and Mary, however, unimaginable doors opened. Gifted with a lyre, later a vielle, Eliza became a well respected musician and writer of songs/poems. Mary became a skilled healer building upon observations made at the knee of Sister Agnes in her medicinal plant garden. Upon the deaths of Eliza and Mary, their joint will stipulated that rent collected from their lands, called "The Bread and Cheese Lands" would be used by the church wardens to minister to the elderly and poor. Donations are collected each Easter. This tradition, started nine hundred years ago, still continues.....
"The Maids of Biddenden" by GD Harper is a historical fiction read not to be missed! "When we eat our bread and onion, Eliza gulps always eating faster than Mary, when Eliza is full, Mary says she is too, even if she had only had a few mouthfuls..." "How many children are attached to each other?...That is why everyone cries when they meet us..." "Can two young maids really strike such fear in the heart of stout people?" Not if strong-willed individuals champion the acceptance of those of us who are physically or mentally challenged.
Thank you Cameron Publicity & Marketing Ltd and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2022
In a Nutshell: There are some books you read for prose, and some you read for the plot. This is in the latter category. Don’t expect flowery writing. Expect a touching story, though a tad longwinded.
Story Synopsis:
Where the book worked for me:
😍 The author’s imagination seems to have covered all possible difficulties of living life as a conjoined twin. I’ve never read any book with conjoined characters, so this felt almost like an eye-opener.
😍 I’ve always seen nuns getting bashed in historical fiction. It was a welcome change to see at least a few positive portrayals of the religious.
😍 The personalities of the sisters are carved so well. Each of them is quite unlike the other and have distinct interests. Not once in the book is there any confusion about who is who. Eliza begins as confident and dominating while Mary is painfully shy. Their character growth happens steadily with every turn of the page.
😍 This is the first book I have read set prior to the 1600s and it was a novel experience. The atmosphere of the time period seems authentic. (I wasn’t sure about a couple of points but couldn’t find any answer to my query online. I’ll let this go as a creative call.) Right from lifestyle to clothes to beliefs to local customs, the book throws light on quite a lot. The patriarchal thinking and blind faith in the church and the king are the highlights. The writing style sounds very contemporary but I suppose this is a blessing as no one today would easily understand the English of that time.
😍 Before I requested this ARC, I had looked up who the maids of Biddenden were. Their story struck me as a combination of inspiring and tragic, but the most emotional part of their lives was how they died. I deeply respect the author for not turning their final moments into a circus. The end was written beautifully.
😍 I found it amazing to see how much of the local healing is similar to the Indian medicinal system of Ayurveda - keeping the humours/elements of the body in balance, using plants and herbs to tackle ailments, balance heat-inducing foods with cooling food and so on. I wonder why this knowledge has been lost over the centuries, leading to a blind dependence on allopathy. I am glad our knowledge of Ayurveda hasn’t suffered a similar fate. (Nothing against allopathy – I do resort to allopathic medicines too, but a balance is always good.)
😍 Don’t miss the author’s note. It explains clearly what is fact and what is fiction.
Where the book could have worked better for me:
☹ The book starts off wonderfully but at the midway mark, it becomes somewhat repetitive and starts dragging. The 400+ pages could easily have been condensed without losing any of the impact.
☹ The prose is very simplistic. If you are the kind of reader who looks forward to beautiful metaphors and lyrical phrases, that doesn’t happen here. This one is to be read strictly for the plot.
All through the story, I was wondering whether things might have happened similarly in real life. Would those innocent children have been subject to as much animosity and disdain just because of their physical oddity? I guess so. But whatever might have been the truth, the author has done a commendable job in ensuring that the maids of Biddenden are known to today’s society too. Their legacy still lasts in Kent; now it is known to a wider audience.
Recommended to historical fiction fans.
4.25 stars.
My thanks to Cameron Publicity & Marketing Ltd and NetGalley for the DRC of “The Maids of Biddenden”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
The book is also available on KU.
———————————————
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Facebook | Twitter
Story Synopsis:
The story is based on the real-life “Maids of Biddenden”, a pair of conjoined twins who are supposed to have lived during the 11th-12th century.
Six year old Eliza and Mary have spent all their life in a local abbey, hidden away from the world because of their physical oddity. The locals have never seen/heard of conjoined twins and their superstitious behaviour leads to this decision. They have only two well-wishers – the prioress Mother Avicia and one of the nuns, Sister Agnes. Circumstances change and the twins find themselves moved to their birth home, where their father and stepmother stay. This transition isn’t easy but soon the twins win the locals over. The book provides a fictionalised version of how these twins might have lived in that irrational age.
The story is written in the first person point of view of the twins and a third person omniscient of the other characters.
Where the book worked for me:
😍 The author’s imagination seems to have covered all possible difficulties of living life as a conjoined twin. I’ve never read any book with conjoined characters, so this felt almost like an eye-opener.
😍 I’ve always seen nuns getting bashed in historical fiction. It was a welcome change to see at least a few positive portrayals of the religious.
😍 The personalities of the sisters are carved so well. Each of them is quite unlike the other and have distinct interests. Not once in the book is there any confusion about who is who. Eliza begins as confident and dominating while Mary is painfully shy. Their character growth happens steadily with every turn of the page.
😍 This is the first book I have read set prior to the 1600s and it was a novel experience. The atmosphere of the time period seems authentic. (I wasn’t sure about a couple of points but couldn’t find any answer to my query online. I’ll let this go as a creative call.) Right from lifestyle to clothes to beliefs to local customs, the book throws light on quite a lot. The patriarchal thinking and blind faith in the church and the king are the highlights. The writing style sounds very contemporary but I suppose this is a blessing as no one today would easily understand the English of that time.
😍 Before I requested this ARC, I had looked up who the maids of Biddenden were. Their story struck me as a combination of inspiring and tragic, but the most emotional part of their lives was how they died. I deeply respect the author for not turning their final moments into a circus. The end was written beautifully.
😍 I found it amazing to see how much of the local healing is similar to the Indian medicinal system of Ayurveda - keeping the humours/elements of the body in balance, using plants and herbs to tackle ailments, balance heat-inducing foods with cooling food and so on. I wonder why this knowledge has been lost over the centuries, leading to a blind dependence on allopathy. I am glad our knowledge of Ayurveda hasn’t suffered a similar fate. (Nothing against allopathy – I do resort to allopathic medicines too, but a balance is always good.)
😍 Don’t miss the author’s note. It explains clearly what is fact and what is fiction.
Where the book could have worked better for me:
☹ The book starts off wonderfully but at the midway mark, it becomes somewhat repetitive and starts dragging. The 400+ pages could easily have been condensed without losing any of the impact.
☹ The prose is very simplistic. If you are the kind of reader who looks forward to beautiful metaphors and lyrical phrases, that doesn’t happen here. This one is to be read strictly for the plot.
All through the story, I was wondering whether things might have happened similarly in real life. Would those innocent children have been subject to as much animosity and disdain just because of their physical oddity? I guess so. But whatever might have been the truth, the author has done a commendable job in ensuring that the maids of Biddenden are known to today’s society too. Their legacy still lasts in Kent; now it is known to a wider audience.
Recommended to historical fiction fans.
4.25 stars.
My thanks to Cameron Publicity & Marketing Ltd and NetGalley for the DRC of “The Maids of Biddenden”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
The book is also available on KU.
———————————————
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Facebook | Twitter
April 30, 2022
A sad and heartbreaking story that is also beautiful because the characters are beautiful souls that have to face the hate and prejudice of those unable to see past their exterior.
It's the story of two real-life conjoined twins, Mary and Eliza Chulkhurst, born in 12th century England, in the town of Biddenden in Kent to a wealthy farmer who could afford to keep them cared for in an abbey for the first half a dozen years of their life. When the girls, joined at the hip by birth, have to be taken from the abbey to live with their father, trouble ensues. First, it's their two-faced stepmother not having their best interest at heart as she pretends, and then it's the townspeople, who, urged on by the town priest, are initially hostile and superstitiously believe the girls are either a punishment from God or a product of the Devil. It takes a while, and lots of work and coordination between the few people able to see Mary and Eliza for what they are, just two unfortunate children not responsible for their condition instead of demonic work, for the girls to get accepted and thrive.
And thrive they do! Both girls show the world to be in possession of talents unique to them: Mary in healing and Eliza in music and poetry. The conjoined twins are so different from each other you can feel their desperation to be cleaved and be separate, but also can feel the deep love and loyalty they hold for each other. Mary, bookish and shy, and Eliza, brash and outgoing, have to learn to live supporting what the other does and wants, even if that means sacrificing their own desires. But they find contentment and earn the love and respect of those who know them, from nobles to peasants, even if there's always the occasional rude person taking it out on them.
Mary and Eliza are also the women who, on inheriting their father's wealth on his passing as his only children, set up the oldest charity in England, which the author says is still active nowadays, nine centuries later. This part was very remarkable.
What I loved the most is the progression in Mary and Eliza's character from childhood to the end of their days. When we meet them, they're six years old, and their POV shows it: both girls "speak" like children of that age in their early chapters; and then, as they become adults, their voice also changes so their respective latter chapters are different in tone. Interspersed in-between are universal narrator-style chapters that tell it from the standpoint of Sister Agnes, the nun who's been in charge of the Maids since birth, and the girls' father as well as some flashes by their stepmother Gudrun, so you get to see it from all angles. I usually don't like POVs that aren't consistently of one style, but I think it worked here, and I loved the girls' chapters best.
This is the kind of disability representation I like: accurate, non-preachy, non-agenda-pushing. Just tell how it's like to have a deformity or a disability, the hard parts and the challenging parts, showing how people are ableist and compassionate, loving or hostile, the blatant discrimination and the subtle one. It was saddening to see how Mary and Eliza were treated, which makes you realise how unfathomably hard it was for people with deformities and birth defects and disabilities in the past, when there was no state healthcare, no programmes to assist them, superstititon and wrong ideas circulated freely, etc. Mary and Eliza were fortunate in that they had a rich father who was also a honest man and didn't have them disposed of or let them rot someplace like many would have, but imagine how many other children without the Chulkhurst girls' means perished and you feel grateful for the things we can enjoy today, even if not perfect.
It's so worth reading! I loved the story so much I didn't notice anything to criticise, it's been one of those rare books where the enjoyment of the story overwhelms any complaints I might have.
Thank you to Cameron Publicity & Marketing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It's the story of two real-life conjoined twins, Mary and Eliza Chulkhurst, born in 12th century England, in the town of Biddenden in Kent to a wealthy farmer who could afford to keep them cared for in an abbey for the first half a dozen years of their life. When the girls, joined at the hip by birth, have to be taken from the abbey to live with their father, trouble ensues. First, it's their two-faced stepmother not having their best interest at heart as she pretends, and then it's the townspeople, who, urged on by the town priest, are initially hostile and superstitiously believe the girls are either a punishment from God or a product of the Devil. It takes a while, and lots of work and coordination between the few people able to see Mary and Eliza for what they are, just two unfortunate children not responsible for their condition instead of demonic work, for the girls to get accepted and thrive.
And thrive they do! Both girls show the world to be in possession of talents unique to them: Mary in healing and Eliza in music and poetry. The conjoined twins are so different from each other you can feel their desperation to be cleaved and be separate, but also can feel the deep love and loyalty they hold for each other. Mary, bookish and shy, and Eliza, brash and outgoing, have to learn to live supporting what the other does and wants, even if that means sacrificing their own desires. But they find contentment and earn the love and respect of those who know them, from nobles to peasants, even if there's always the occasional rude person taking it out on them.
Mary and Eliza are also the women who, on inheriting their father's wealth on his passing as his only children, set up the oldest charity in England, which the author says is still active nowadays, nine centuries later. This part was very remarkable.
What I loved the most is the progression in Mary and Eliza's character from childhood to the end of their days. When we meet them, they're six years old, and their POV shows it: both girls "speak" like children of that age in their early chapters; and then, as they become adults, their voice also changes so their respective latter chapters are different in tone. Interspersed in-between are universal narrator-style chapters that tell it from the standpoint of Sister Agnes, the nun who's been in charge of the Maids since birth, and the girls' father as well as some flashes by their stepmother Gudrun, so you get to see it from all angles. I usually don't like POVs that aren't consistently of one style, but I think it worked here, and I loved the girls' chapters best.
This is the kind of disability representation I like: accurate, non-preachy, non-agenda-pushing. Just tell how it's like to have a deformity or a disability, the hard parts and the challenging parts, showing how people are ableist and compassionate, loving or hostile, the blatant discrimination and the subtle one. It was saddening to see how Mary and Eliza were treated, which makes you realise how unfathomably hard it was for people with deformities and birth defects and disabilities in the past, when there was no state healthcare, no programmes to assist them, superstititon and wrong ideas circulated freely, etc. Mary and Eliza were fortunate in that they had a rich father who was also a honest man and didn't have them disposed of or let them rot someplace like many would have, but imagine how many other children without the Chulkhurst girls' means perished and you feel grateful for the things we can enjoy today, even if not perfect.
It's so worth reading! I loved the story so much I didn't notice anything to criticise, it's been one of those rare books where the enjoyment of the story overwhelms any complaints I might have.
Thank you to Cameron Publicity & Marketing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2022
“𝘓𝘦𝘵 𝘶𝘴 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘴 […] 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘣𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘵 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳’𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘴, 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘶𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘺. 𝘞𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦, 𝘣𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘦𝘹𝘵.”
✮ ✮ ✮ ✮ ✮
What a brilliant and interesting piece of historical fiction. It’s not very often you hear about conjoined twins nowadays, but to hear about the brilliance that came from conjoined twins Mary and Eliza Chalkhurst back in the early 1100s was truly mesmerising. I couldn’t put this book down and I’m actually thinking about planning a trip to Biddenden to relive some of this and hear about the twins from the local townspeople. I love that almost 1000 years later bread and cheese are still provided to locals.
I am in awe of this book and the fictional story GD Harper has written, and I would recommend to any historical fiction lover! The tale of Mary and Eliza themselves was so interesting and thought provoking, especially thinking about how they had to plan everything they wanted to do, and how they felt they couldn’t fall in love even though they craved it, because one man couldn’t lay with two women. It has just left an imprint on my heart knowing that two magnificent ladies did so much despite their circumstances!
Thank you so much to GD Harper for my gifted copy, and Love Books Tours for my space on the tour.
𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐲.
✮ ✮ ✮ ✮ ✮
What a brilliant and interesting piece of historical fiction. It’s not very often you hear about conjoined twins nowadays, but to hear about the brilliance that came from conjoined twins Mary and Eliza Chalkhurst back in the early 1100s was truly mesmerising. I couldn’t put this book down and I’m actually thinking about planning a trip to Biddenden to relive some of this and hear about the twins from the local townspeople. I love that almost 1000 years later bread and cheese are still provided to locals.
I am in awe of this book and the fictional story GD Harper has written, and I would recommend to any historical fiction lover! The tale of Mary and Eliza themselves was so interesting and thought provoking, especially thinking about how they had to plan everything they wanted to do, and how they felt they couldn’t fall in love even though they craved it, because one man couldn’t lay with two women. It has just left an imprint on my heart knowing that two magnificent ladies did so much despite their circumstances!
Thank you so much to GD Harper for my gifted copy, and Love Books Tours for my space on the tour.
𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐲.
November 8, 2022
I really enjoyed this book!
I was intrigued by the blurb, the dating of the book and the topic of conjoined twins really got me intrigued, I've held a fascination by them for many years- how they live together and if they choose to be separated.
I knew straight away, this book was beautifully written and gripping, with some amazing characters to centre the book around.
It is written with emotion, telling how the twins were ostracised by society, and shows how judgements can change with the right teaching.
I was intrigued by the blurb, the dating of the book and the topic of conjoined twins really got me intrigued, I've held a fascination by them for many years- how they live together and if they choose to be separated.
I knew straight away, this book was beautifully written and gripping, with some amazing characters to centre the book around.
It is written with emotion, telling how the twins were ostracised by society, and shows how judgements can change with the right teaching.
June 27, 2022
This was like a soothing balm for my heart.
This is the first book I have ever read on conjoined twins, and that too one that is set in the 12th century, so I found it pretty interesting.
Mary and Eliza's wisdom, maturity, and persistence is admirable and inspiring.
I enjoyed the progression of the characters (not just of the twins, but also of the people around them).
There are some books that make me want to be a better human being, this is one such.
Much thanks to Roshini for highlighting this book.
P.S. Available on Kindle unlimited as of today (27 July 2022).
This is the first book I have ever read on conjoined twins, and that too one that is set in the 12th century, so I found it pretty interesting.
Mary and Eliza's wisdom, maturity, and persistence is admirable and inspiring.
I enjoyed the progression of the characters (not just of the twins, but also of the people around them).
There are some books that make me want to be a better human being, this is one such.
Much thanks to Roshini for highlighting this book.
P.S. Available on Kindle unlimited as of today (27 July 2022).
February 9, 2025
Devastating and hopeful and absolutely wonderful. What an unexpected gem!
July 4, 2022
I always loved to be introduced to new characters and periods of history that I knew very little about, and in the case of Mary & Eliza I knew absolutely nothing about them. But thanks to this wonderful book I feel I've really met these amazing women and just want to find out even more about them!
The author has been inspired by their real story of these women who were born in 1100 to a wealthy family in Kent, and were joined at the hip and whose mother died giving birth to them. What follows is an amazing story of a family who gave them up to be raised by nuns, and how the women flourished to have their own individual personalities and amazing talents - one became a talented musician, the other a healer.
What you get throughout the book is the strength and support they got from one another. At a time in history when conjoined twins would be viewed as suspicious and the locals feared them, until they got to know them and see them as women in their own rights. Their fear was replaced by curiosity and when the girls became sick, the locals pulled together to help look after them.
They always faced negativity, from those close to them and beyond, but they had an amazing mindset that they were focused on their own, and each others' happiness, so they let people get on with things while they pushed on with doing what they both loved.
The story takes you on an amazing journey of their life and all the relevant historical events that were happening at the time, and I found myself totally caught up with the emotion by the end! Truly inspiring women and a story brilliantly told!
The author has been inspired by their real story of these women who were born in 1100 to a wealthy family in Kent, and were joined at the hip and whose mother died giving birth to them. What follows is an amazing story of a family who gave them up to be raised by nuns, and how the women flourished to have their own individual personalities and amazing talents - one became a talented musician, the other a healer.
What you get throughout the book is the strength and support they got from one another. At a time in history when conjoined twins would be viewed as suspicious and the locals feared them, until they got to know them and see them as women in their own rights. Their fear was replaced by curiosity and when the girls became sick, the locals pulled together to help look after them.
They always faced negativity, from those close to them and beyond, but they had an amazing mindset that they were focused on their own, and each others' happiness, so they let people get on with things while they pushed on with doing what they both loved.
The story takes you on an amazing journey of their life and all the relevant historical events that were happening at the time, and I found myself totally caught up with the emotion by the end! Truly inspiring women and a story brilliantly told!
January 1, 2023
I had never heard of the Biddenden Maids and it is unknown if they genuinely existed or were created as folk figures, but either way, their story is enchanting. The author has woven a captivating web of characters around the sisters, who open your eyes to the way people lived back then. The hostility and lack of compassion shown by the villagers, and even from within the church, is hard to accept but ultimately completely believable. I would like to think that society has evolved for the better, but even today, many people still see "different" as inferior, whether in relation to migrants, the homeless or those with physical or mental disabilities.
The girls ultimately find their happy ending, coming out as winners, whatever life can throw at them. It's definitely a great lesson for us all !
(You can read my full review on my blog : https://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspo...)
The girls ultimately find their happy ending, coming out as winners, whatever life can throw at them. It's definitely a great lesson for us all !
(You can read my full review on my blog : https://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspo...)
May 3, 2022
A WISHING SHELF BOOK REVIEW
TITLE: The Maids of Biddenden
AUTHOR: G D Harper
Star Rating: 5
´A moving and inspiring story which will stay with you for a long time. Highly recommended!´ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
This is the story of Eliza and Mary Chulkhurst, cojoined twins who were born at the beginning of the 12th century. Written from the POV of Eliza and Mary, it follows the twins as they develop from young girls to young women, and, I must say, it´s a totally enthralling read. It´s also very moving as the two girls try to be all they can be in a world where many see them as monsters.
Writing successful historical novels can be very difficult. Thankfully, G D Harper is up to the task, never overwhelming the reader with too much ‘history’, but keeping the focus on the twins. And, by switching between the two girls, we get to know them so very well, how they feel; even what it´s like to be kissed for the first time.
For me, personally, this was a very inspiring read. It was almost impossible not to be when the two girls did so very much in such a short time. Whether it was a love of music or nurturing plants, I thoroughly enjoyed following them on what was often a difficult journey. In fact, it would be a hardened soul who would not shed a tear in the final chapter when they passed away. Mary went first and, a few hours later. Eliza followed. After Mary passed, Eliza was asked if she wished to be surgically separated from her sister. She answered, “We came together, we will also go together.” A sentiment which, I feel, sums up the book perfectly. Eliza and Mary´s story will stay with you long after you shut the book. And that is its strength.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
TITLE: The Maids of Biddenden
AUTHOR: G D Harper
Star Rating: 5
´A moving and inspiring story which will stay with you for a long time. Highly recommended!´ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
This is the story of Eliza and Mary Chulkhurst, cojoined twins who were born at the beginning of the 12th century. Written from the POV of Eliza and Mary, it follows the twins as they develop from young girls to young women, and, I must say, it´s a totally enthralling read. It´s also very moving as the two girls try to be all they can be in a world where many see them as monsters.
Writing successful historical novels can be very difficult. Thankfully, G D Harper is up to the task, never overwhelming the reader with too much ‘history’, but keeping the focus on the twins. And, by switching between the two girls, we get to know them so very well, how they feel; even what it´s like to be kissed for the first time.
For me, personally, this was a very inspiring read. It was almost impossible not to be when the two girls did so very much in such a short time. Whether it was a love of music or nurturing plants, I thoroughly enjoyed following them on what was often a difficult journey. In fact, it would be a hardened soul who would not shed a tear in the final chapter when they passed away. Mary went first and, a few hours later. Eliza followed. After Mary passed, Eliza was asked if she wished to be surgically separated from her sister. She answered, “We came together, we will also go together.” A sentiment which, I feel, sums up the book perfectly. Eliza and Mary´s story will stay with you long after you shut the book. And that is its strength.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
November 3, 2022
Thanks Love book tours for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was really well written. It creates a story around the maidens of Biddenden. Two conjoined twins who lived on the 1100s. The story focuses on the troubles they had with the church. How they must seek protection to not be considered demons. They must learn to face they’re different. Find their own personality when joined with another. Their family relationship also doesn’t starts perfect. And as they grow up their place in the world becomes unclear. Politics, gender roles, laws it all seems like a different problem they must overcome.
The narration is incredible and the changes on the point of view helps a lot to understand the characters. The world and history behind it is well researched. The book is fun to read and interesting. All characters contribute a different aspect to the tale. A great book for any book lover of historical fiction.
This book was really well written. It creates a story around the maidens of Biddenden. Two conjoined twins who lived on the 1100s. The story focuses on the troubles they had with the church. How they must seek protection to not be considered demons. They must learn to face they’re different. Find their own personality when joined with another. Their family relationship also doesn’t starts perfect. And as they grow up their place in the world becomes unclear. Politics, gender roles, laws it all seems like a different problem they must overcome.
The narration is incredible and the changes on the point of view helps a lot to understand the characters. The world and history behind it is well researched. The book is fun to read and interesting. All characters contribute a different aspect to the tale. A great book for any book lover of historical fiction.
November 3, 2022
What an amazing book, I never realised this was based on true events until the end (even though I’d read the synopsis!) A true inspiration to all, Mary & Eliza didn’t let their physical form stop them from doing anything. They grew up as a curiosity to some, and great friends to others.
Both sisters lived life to the full and excelled at the talents they each had, Mary a great healer and Eliza a brilliant musician learning at least 3 instruments during her lifetime. Such an inspiring book, and a great story with some good and not so good characters along the way.
I enjoy historical fiction and this was no exception, made even better by the tale left behind by the sisters.
Both sisters lived life to the full and excelled at the talents they each had, Mary a great healer and Eliza a brilliant musician learning at least 3 instruments during her lifetime. Such an inspiring book, and a great story with some good and not so good characters along the way.
I enjoy historical fiction and this was no exception, made even better by the tale left behind by the sisters.
June 28, 2022
⚠ WARNING ... May contain what could be considered slight spoilers
The story of the Biddenden sisters; conjoined twins who, born in 1100, grow into gifted and much-loved women, one a talented musician and song-writer, the other a caring healer and grower of medicinal plants!
OOH! One of those books that had me hopping from foot to foot {figuratively speaking of course} in sheer excitement, what a great premise.
Whilst I remember reading an account of conjoined brothers, Chang and Eng Bunker, who, born in 1811, 711 years after the Biddenden twins, were supposedly the original "Siamese twins", I can't remember ever reading a novel featuring conjoined twins which made The Maids Of Biddenden a refreshing read. That its based on real-life twins, the author telling their, the twin's, story at the back of the book', something of an eye-opener.
The sights, the sounds, the clothes, the customs, the blind faith in king and church, transported back to the 12th century, it all felt authentic; the superstitions of the people as you would have imagined, the hostility, the disdain with which the girls were treat, the village priest's belief that the they were either a punishment from God/product of the devil all too believable.
And yet for all of that, the chapters told from multiple points of view {mainly one or other of the twins, Mary Or Eliza, though there is an occasional insight from nun Sister Agnes, or the twin's father or step-mother}, the writing is contemporary, simplistic and lacking in lyrical prose, the plot unencumbered by flowery language which made for easy reading.
The sisters, girls who are as physically close to each other as its possible for any two human beings to be and yet have quite different personalities, likes and dislikes; the author seemingly having covered every aspect of the difficulties {and joys} of being a conjoined twin in a tale that cannot fail to pull at the heartstrings ...
Will the maids ever find happiness or are they destined to spend their lives awaiting 'the splitting'? Will people begin to see them for who they are or are they forever to be viewed with fear, as an oddity? I'll leave it to you to read the book for yourself. You won't be disappointed.
Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... One of several bloggers participating in this Blog Tour, no financial compensation was asked for nor given
The story of the Biddenden sisters; conjoined twins who, born in 1100, grow into gifted and much-loved women, one a talented musician and song-writer, the other a caring healer and grower of medicinal plants!
OOH! One of those books that had me hopping from foot to foot {figuratively speaking of course} in sheer excitement, what a great premise.
Whilst I remember reading an account of conjoined brothers, Chang and Eng Bunker, who, born in 1811, 711 years after the Biddenden twins, were supposedly the original "Siamese twins", I can't remember ever reading a novel featuring conjoined twins which made The Maids Of Biddenden a refreshing read. That its based on real-life twins, the author telling their, the twin's, story at the back of the book', something of an eye-opener.
The sights, the sounds, the clothes, the customs, the blind faith in king and church, transported back to the 12th century, it all felt authentic; the superstitions of the people as you would have imagined, the hostility, the disdain with which the girls were treat, the village priest's belief that the they were either a punishment from God/product of the devil all too believable.
And yet for all of that, the chapters told from multiple points of view {mainly one or other of the twins, Mary Or Eliza, though there is an occasional insight from nun Sister Agnes, or the twin's father or step-mother}, the writing is contemporary, simplistic and lacking in lyrical prose, the plot unencumbered by flowery language which made for easy reading.
The sisters, girls who are as physically close to each other as its possible for any two human beings to be and yet have quite different personalities, likes and dislikes; the author seemingly having covered every aspect of the difficulties {and joys} of being a conjoined twin in a tale that cannot fail to pull at the heartstrings ...
Will the maids ever find happiness or are they destined to spend their lives awaiting 'the splitting'? Will people begin to see them for who they are or are they forever to be viewed with fear, as an oddity? I'll leave it to you to read the book for yourself. You won't be disappointed.
Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... One of several bloggers participating in this Blog Tour, no financial compensation was asked for nor given
January 1, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
October 7, 2022
Based on the true-life story of two remarkable women, Mary and Eliza Chulkhurst, in the Kent township of Biddenden, in and around the early twelfth-century, this book takes the tale of what may be the first documented case of conjoined twins. In this case, joined at the hip, with two minds and one shared body, Mary and Eliza’s lives are forever entwined by a physical link and a single flow of blood, emotions, sensations, and even thoughts.
A thoughtfully-detailed and absorbing story, the author does a wonderful job of evoking a time period past - one that is grim in its offerings for the common folk, suffocating in its treatment of women, and so tightly embedded with myths, religious dogma, superstitions, subrogation based on class, and barely-suppressed patriarchal violence that it comes as no surprise to see citizens of the day initially frightened, appalled and terrified at the sight of the “abomination” they see in the strange and unexpected birth of the maiden twins.
Physically similar, Mary (the larger, yet more frail of the two) is a quiet, studious girl, who eagerly absorbs any information she can find on the healing nature of plants and their use in treating human illness. Eliza, the more outgoing, social and opinionated of the two, is a talented musician and singer, with a deep-rooted need to perform and celebrate life and its pleasures.
It’s impossible not to be fascinated by this insightful look at another era, and its treatment of the unexpected. Although Mary and Eliza have the good fortune to be born into a well-to-do family, the very existence of their unusual lives will clearly open the door to danger, abuse, and of course, superstitious censure. Without giving the plot away (no spoilers here), Mary and Eliza are in fact, destined to have a colorful life, - one which provides perhaps more opportunities, crises, learnings, exposures and successes than could be expected based on their early experiences.
An enjoyable glimpse into medieval life, this interesting read challenges the reader to explore another dimension of diversity, as we journey into a world and a time where unusual differences, physical in nature, may turn out to be, perhaps, the least compelling facet of these remarkable and inspiring women, and what we will learn about their lives, loves, and yearnings.
My stop today on the #randomttours #blogtour for #MaidsofBiddenden by @GDHarperAuthor
A great big thank you to the author, and the publisher for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
A thoughtfully-detailed and absorbing story, the author does a wonderful job of evoking a time period past - one that is grim in its offerings for the common folk, suffocating in its treatment of women, and so tightly embedded with myths, religious dogma, superstitions, subrogation based on class, and barely-suppressed patriarchal violence that it comes as no surprise to see citizens of the day initially frightened, appalled and terrified at the sight of the “abomination” they see in the strange and unexpected birth of the maiden twins.
Physically similar, Mary (the larger, yet more frail of the two) is a quiet, studious girl, who eagerly absorbs any information she can find on the healing nature of plants and their use in treating human illness. Eliza, the more outgoing, social and opinionated of the two, is a talented musician and singer, with a deep-rooted need to perform and celebrate life and its pleasures.
It’s impossible not to be fascinated by this insightful look at another era, and its treatment of the unexpected. Although Mary and Eliza have the good fortune to be born into a well-to-do family, the very existence of their unusual lives will clearly open the door to danger, abuse, and of course, superstitious censure. Without giving the plot away (no spoilers here), Mary and Eliza are in fact, destined to have a colorful life, - one which provides perhaps more opportunities, crises, learnings, exposures and successes than could be expected based on their early experiences.
An enjoyable glimpse into medieval life, this interesting read challenges the reader to explore another dimension of diversity, as we journey into a world and a time where unusual differences, physical in nature, may turn out to be, perhaps, the least compelling facet of these remarkable and inspiring women, and what we will learn about their lives, loves, and yearnings.
My stop today on the #randomttours #blogtour for #MaidsofBiddenden by @GDHarperAuthor
A great big thank you to the author, and the publisher for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
July 5, 2022
Set in the 12th century, The Maids of Biddenden begins when conjoined twins Eliza and Mary Chulkhurst are six years old. After their mother died during childbirth the girls are sent to Malling Abbey, where they are hidden away and not expected to live long. The sisters are confined to one room and looked after by Sister Agnes. However, Eliza and Mary surprise everyone and flourish, they are bright and healthy. As they get older, the abbey can no longer look after them or provide for them. Their father is sent for, and he decides to take the girls back to his home in Biddenden. At first their stepmother is horrified by the sight of Eliza and Mary, but once the local villagers start to accept them, she begins to love them and takes on the role of their mother.
When the girls are younger, they hate being joined and lash out at each other constantly. Prior to leaving the abbey they have never seen any other children and assume that every child comes into the world joined and then get separated later. It is particularly heart-breaking when they witness other children for the first time and realise they aren’t the same, and will stay joined together forever.
The book follows the sisters at different stages in their lives, as they navigate their way joined together in one body, but with two very different minds. Some chapters are told from Eliza’s point of view and some from Mary’s. As they get older, Mary learns about the properties of plants and remedies, and she uses this knowledge to heal people. Eliza is the more confident sister; she learns how to play instruments and write songs which she performs for audiences. They learn that they have to compromise their time and sacrifice their own individual dreams, so that the other can experience theirs.
This novel is loosely based on the conjoined twins of Biddenden. There is evidence to suggest that they were real people, and the author has included some information at the end. I found this story incredibly moving and I couldn’t put it down. I enjoyed it that much, I was recommending it to people before I had even finished reading it! Because of the lack of/conflicting source material about the sisters, this book is likely the closest we’ll ever get to the real Maids of Biddenden, and what a wonderful tribute it is!
*gifted in exchange for an honest review
When the girls are younger, they hate being joined and lash out at each other constantly. Prior to leaving the abbey they have never seen any other children and assume that every child comes into the world joined and then get separated later. It is particularly heart-breaking when they witness other children for the first time and realise they aren’t the same, and will stay joined together forever.
The book follows the sisters at different stages in their lives, as they navigate their way joined together in one body, but with two very different minds. Some chapters are told from Eliza’s point of view and some from Mary’s. As they get older, Mary learns about the properties of plants and remedies, and she uses this knowledge to heal people. Eliza is the more confident sister; she learns how to play instruments and write songs which she performs for audiences. They learn that they have to compromise their time and sacrifice their own individual dreams, so that the other can experience theirs.
This novel is loosely based on the conjoined twins of Biddenden. There is evidence to suggest that they were real people, and the author has included some information at the end. I found this story incredibly moving and I couldn’t put it down. I enjoyed it that much, I was recommending it to people before I had even finished reading it! Because of the lack of/conflicting source material about the sisters, this book is likely the closest we’ll ever get to the real Maids of Biddenden, and what a wonderful tribute it is!
*gifted in exchange for an honest review
October 31, 2022
There is some debate about whether the Maids of Biddenden really did exist and how much of their story is a mix of folktales or history. There certainly seems to be some evidence for their existence with the village of Biddenden in Kent to this day having a charity which distributes cheese, bread and Biddenden cakes from funds raised from the sale of the Bread and Cheese Lands, purported to have been owned by Mary and Eliza Chulkhurst.
Whether they existed or not, what we have here is compelling tale of what it might have been like to live as conjoined twins in 12th century England. In a time when any out of the ordinary was regarded as suspicious and the work of the devil, it is quite extraordinary that Mary and Eliza not only survived but thrived into adulthood. The author gives us a great insight into the beliefs, fears and customs of 12th century people.
I was so interested to read about the religious beliefs of the time and how much influence the Church had on everyday life. Medical knowledge was very limited of course and we see how even a rudimentary knowledge of healing was so important. In terms of characters, it was good to read about how Eliza and Mary grew from children feared and hidden away, into well educated and intelligent women, valued for their individual skills and talents. With some of the chapters being narrated from their individual points of view, we do get to know them as two very distinct personalities. I would imagine that the sisters could have been separated relatively easily these days but any such attempt would have been fatal back then.
I have to admit that I don’t particularly like the cover of this one but the old adage ‘never judge a book by the cover‘ is definitely true here. This is a moving and engaging read. The Maids of Biddenden is both fascinating and well-written historical fiction and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Whether they existed or not, what we have here is compelling tale of what it might have been like to live as conjoined twins in 12th century England. In a time when any out of the ordinary was regarded as suspicious and the work of the devil, it is quite extraordinary that Mary and Eliza not only survived but thrived into adulthood. The author gives us a great insight into the beliefs, fears and customs of 12th century people.
I was so interested to read about the religious beliefs of the time and how much influence the Church had on everyday life. Medical knowledge was very limited of course and we see how even a rudimentary knowledge of healing was so important. In terms of characters, it was good to read about how Eliza and Mary grew from children feared and hidden away, into well educated and intelligent women, valued for their individual skills and talents. With some of the chapters being narrated from their individual points of view, we do get to know them as two very distinct personalities. I would imagine that the sisters could have been separated relatively easily these days but any such attempt would have been fatal back then.
I have to admit that I don’t particularly like the cover of this one but the old adage ‘never judge a book by the cover‘ is definitely true here. This is a moving and engaging read. The Maids of Biddenden is both fascinating and well-written historical fiction and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
October 23, 2022
4.5 star review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This tells the story of combined twins, Eliza and Mary. Set in the 1100s Biddenden, Kent, they were born to a rich family but spent much of their childhood in Malling Abbey away from society.
The book flips mostly between Mary and Eliza, beginning with them at a young age during their childhood. Living at an abbey, they have a dislike for each other and we can see why in their opinion. As they’re young, they bicker and fight a lot like many sisters do but it’s worse for them as they’re conjoined twins and so in each other’s pockets all the time. I couldn’t imagine how hard it must have been for them. But with the abbey falling apart and the maids in trouble, the sisters begin to share a mutual cause and are determined to fight for the maids and a place at the abbey.
Even though life was difficult for them growing up, their relationship evolves and forming a great bonding as they know that they’re always have each other’s backs.
Their lives change over the years, becoming vital members of society as they step more and more out into the world. They’re determined to live their life to the fullest, finding love among the way and finding light even in troubling times. One finds herself becoming a wonderful poet and entertainer, the other tends a psychic garden and knows the ways of healing.
Based on a true story, they’re both inspiring characters, despite the challenges faced, they were still able to forge lives as individuals. I loved these characters, they’re were definitely a force to be reckoned with. The author explains that they actually left behind quite a legacy, helping others even still after their deaths.
There was times I almost wept with this one but I don’t want to give anything away. A heart wrenching and touching story about two sisters who couldn’t be apart.
This tells the story of combined twins, Eliza and Mary. Set in the 1100s Biddenden, Kent, they were born to a rich family but spent much of their childhood in Malling Abbey away from society.
The book flips mostly between Mary and Eliza, beginning with them at a young age during their childhood. Living at an abbey, they have a dislike for each other and we can see why in their opinion. As they’re young, they bicker and fight a lot like many sisters do but it’s worse for them as they’re conjoined twins and so in each other’s pockets all the time. I couldn’t imagine how hard it must have been for them. But with the abbey falling apart and the maids in trouble, the sisters begin to share a mutual cause and are determined to fight for the maids and a place at the abbey.
Even though life was difficult for them growing up, their relationship evolves and forming a great bonding as they know that they’re always have each other’s backs.
Their lives change over the years, becoming vital members of society as they step more and more out into the world. They’re determined to live their life to the fullest, finding love among the way and finding light even in troubling times. One finds herself becoming a wonderful poet and entertainer, the other tends a psychic garden and knows the ways of healing.
Based on a true story, they’re both inspiring characters, despite the challenges faced, they were still able to forge lives as individuals. I loved these characters, they’re were definitely a force to be reckoned with. The author explains that they actually left behind quite a legacy, helping others even still after their deaths.
There was times I almost wept with this one but I don’t want to give anything away. A heart wrenching and touching story about two sisters who couldn’t be apart.
December 18, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First and foremost: wow. Just, wow. The detail, the beautiful writing, the amazing characters. This book is everything you want from a historical fiction, and more!
This book switches through three different voices seamlessly; one for each of the conjoined twins, and another that allows you to watch the events of the narrative unfold. The twins' voices change and mature as they age, showing the level of detail that GD Harper went to. In short, I'm completely in love with Harpers writing style, and I can't wait to check out more of their books!
🚨 Warning: you may well need a tissue or two by the end!
At the end of this book, there's also a bonus chapter that tells you about the real maids of Biddenden. As a history lover, I find this fascinating and I'm so glad it was added in!
📖 Favourite Quote: "Are we now to shun those whose appearance displeases us? If that were the case, many a bedraggled ruffian would find themselves barred from my inn..." - Ada, the village alewife.
Because I got this book through lovebookstours, the book also arrived dedicated and signed - this was actually my first ever tour book to arrive, so it set the bar super high! Plus, for those of you wondering - she's floppy and a dream to read! Thank you so much LBT and GD Harper - I loved every page of this book!
First and foremost: wow. Just, wow. The detail, the beautiful writing, the amazing characters. This book is everything you want from a historical fiction, and more!
This book switches through three different voices seamlessly; one for each of the conjoined twins, and another that allows you to watch the events of the narrative unfold. The twins' voices change and mature as they age, showing the level of detail that GD Harper went to. In short, I'm completely in love with Harpers writing style, and I can't wait to check out more of their books!
🚨 Warning: you may well need a tissue or two by the end!
At the end of this book, there's also a bonus chapter that tells you about the real maids of Biddenden. As a history lover, I find this fascinating and I'm so glad it was added in!
📖 Favourite Quote: "Are we now to shun those whose appearance displeases us? If that were the case, many a bedraggled ruffian would find themselves barred from my inn..." - Ada, the village alewife.
Because I got this book through lovebookstours, the book also arrived dedicated and signed - this was actually my first ever tour book to arrive, so it set the bar super high! Plus, for those of you wondering - she's floppy and a dream to read! Thank you so much LBT and GD Harper - I loved every page of this book!
May 5, 2022
I am not a great reader of historical fiction, but every now and then a book comes along that intrigues me and I want to read it, so when I was offered a copy of this book by the author and read the blurb I was fascinated and just knew this was one I wanted to read! I was not disappointed, I thought this was excellent, a well written compelling book, a fictional biography based on real life historical characters and events.
'Today she would see it in the flesh. It. She. They? What was best? Soon she would know' Conjoined twins Mary and Eliza were born in a time when there was not much acceptance for differences and they were seen as a monster or from the devil. Hidden away from the world for the first few years of their life, they grew having to work together to achieve what they wanted yet with two very different personalities.
Once they can be no longer hidden from public view they and their family, fight hard for acceptance into society. Twins who were once shunned now become revered, with their gentle spirits they capture the attention of all. Eliza a very talented musician entertains the local folk and the powerful with her music. Mary is a healer and grows herbs and plants to mix to cure ills. They become well known and travelling around the local area use their abilities to do good to those around them. They also plan a legacy to leave behind them that will continue into the future.
It is fascinating to see how Mary and Eliza accept their joining and work together to achieve their goals, as you read the book you can't help but admire their determination and persistence. The historical events and characters in the book are interesting too at the end their is a short chapter explaining some of the history and how Eliza and Mary's lives have impacted the area of Biddenden today.
I found this book really enthralling and inspirational and I thoroughly recommend it, you won't be disappointed!
I received a free copy of this book from the author, but this is my honest opinion of the book.
'Today she would see it in the flesh. It. She. They? What was best? Soon she would know' Conjoined twins Mary and Eliza were born in a time when there was not much acceptance for differences and they were seen as a monster or from the devil. Hidden away from the world for the first few years of their life, they grew having to work together to achieve what they wanted yet with two very different personalities.
Once they can be no longer hidden from public view they and their family, fight hard for acceptance into society. Twins who were once shunned now become revered, with their gentle spirits they capture the attention of all. Eliza a very talented musician entertains the local folk and the powerful with her music. Mary is a healer and grows herbs and plants to mix to cure ills. They become well known and travelling around the local area use their abilities to do good to those around them. They also plan a legacy to leave behind them that will continue into the future.
It is fascinating to see how Mary and Eliza accept their joining and work together to achieve their goals, as you read the book you can't help but admire their determination and persistence. The historical events and characters in the book are interesting too at the end their is a short chapter explaining some of the history and how Eliza and Mary's lives have impacted the area of Biddenden today.
I found this book really enthralling and inspirational and I thoroughly recommend it, you won't be disappointed!
I received a free copy of this book from the author, but this is my honest opinion of the book.
July 1, 2022
I have to say, an excellent, masterful piece of work. This is something truly unique and I haven’t read anything like it before. GD Harper brought the book and characters to life - it was extraordinary.
I hadn’t heard of the Maids of Biddenden until this book and when researching online, GD Harper has written a truly inspiring and moving book. You’ve done the history so much justice and moved me. I felt a little lost at first but once I researched into what I was reading, it all fell into place and although not my typical genre, I felt I could not put it down and devoured it.
I’ve seen on TV many cases of conjoined twins and I think Mary and Eliza had so much to deal with but were so mature and I felt they had to grow up at such a young age given their circumstsances.
It was written so poignantly and I loved the character development throughout the book.
Thank you to @gdharperauthor for sending me a signed copy of your book and wee bookmark, it was a lovely package to receive and to @rachelsrandomresources for allowing me a space on tour.
I hadn’t heard of the Maids of Biddenden until this book and when researching online, GD Harper has written a truly inspiring and moving book. You’ve done the history so much justice and moved me. I felt a little lost at first but once I researched into what I was reading, it all fell into place and although not my typical genre, I felt I could not put it down and devoured it.
I’ve seen on TV many cases of conjoined twins and I think Mary and Eliza had so much to deal with but were so mature and I felt they had to grow up at such a young age given their circumstsances.
It was written so poignantly and I loved the character development throughout the book.
Thank you to @gdharperauthor for sending me a signed copy of your book and wee bookmark, it was a lovely package to receive and to @rachelsrandomresources for allowing me a space on tour.
August 23, 2022
Based on a true story, two conjoined twins are born in Kent around the year 1100. There’s horror at their birth and they’re considered abominations, often referred to in the convent where they’re ensconced as ‘it’. An enlightened bishop and prioress decide to educate these girls and try to reintroduce them to society. It’s a brilliant take on a story that must have horrified many at the time. The girls each have a talent but the other has to hang around while they study. I really enjoyed this, as will anyone who enjoyed historical books, I think.
May 2, 2022
To say that The Maids of Biddenden was a great story does not express the depth of feeling I have for this book. The true story of Eliza and Mary, a set a conjoined twins who lived in 12th century England, is charming, riveting, full of heartache and joy. This fictional biography follows them from the time of their birth and upbringing in Malling Abbey throughout their life and many adventures with their parents Thomas and Gudrun Chulkhurst. Though there is no evidence that many of the events in this book transpired, it is a lovely tale of triumph over adversity and working together that I think everyone who is into historical fiction ought to read. I give this book 4 stars.
May 2, 2022
I have only ever read one other book about conjoined twins that I gave 5 stars too, and this was better so 5 stars doesn't seem quite enough. Incredible writing, fantastically gripping storyline and well developed characters that really popped off of the page. I loved it,
August 5, 2022
The story begins in 1106 when Mother Avicia joins Malling Abbey as a prioress. Along with the nuns, they have two young, conjoined twins, six-year-old Mary and Eliza Chulkhurst who are joined at the hip. They have been confined to a room like prisoners, but Avicia decides things need to change, as the girls are healthy and bright. Sister Agnes has been looking after the twins, but Sister Margaret has been suggesting the girls are left to die.
We hear Eliza and Mary’s viewpoints in between chapters from a narrator’s point of view. Eliza is the more outgoing one, whereas Mary is rather shy. Eliza prays to God for them to be separated, as she gets fed up with her constant companion. She often talks about “the splitting” and wants it to be done soon.
I was fascinated by the premise of this book, which is based on the true story of these girls, who were born in Kent in 1100. It is certainly a fascinating read! I got into the story straight away, the first chapter grabs your attention, so you want to read on and find out what happens. The girls seem to be in mortal danger from the first chapter, which hooks you in and we follow their stories throughout their lives.
It is very well-written, and I love the characters of the girls and how different they are to each other, their individual personalities come across really well. Mother Avicia and Sister Agnes are brilliant too! But I felt really angry at the way the twins were treated sometimes by other people.
I felt the novel was very authentic and the author had done his research. The descriptions of the conditions of the time were believable and fascinating, especially the way herbs were used for medicinal complaints.
At the end of the book, there are a few pages explaining what is known about the real twins and their story, which is also well worth a read. I hadn’t heard of them before but would like to know more.
I would recommend this book to everyone; I don’t think you need to be a fan of historical fiction to enjoy the book. The twins have such an interesting story to tell, and everyone will fall in love with them. The book is so well-written that it never becomes heavy or too complicated; it’s a joy to read!
We hear Eliza and Mary’s viewpoints in between chapters from a narrator’s point of view. Eliza is the more outgoing one, whereas Mary is rather shy. Eliza prays to God for them to be separated, as she gets fed up with her constant companion. She often talks about “the splitting” and wants it to be done soon.
I was fascinated by the premise of this book, which is based on the true story of these girls, who were born in Kent in 1100. It is certainly a fascinating read! I got into the story straight away, the first chapter grabs your attention, so you want to read on and find out what happens. The girls seem to be in mortal danger from the first chapter, which hooks you in and we follow their stories throughout their lives.
It is very well-written, and I love the characters of the girls and how different they are to each other, their individual personalities come across really well. Mother Avicia and Sister Agnes are brilliant too! But I felt really angry at the way the twins were treated sometimes by other people.
I felt the novel was very authentic and the author had done his research. The descriptions of the conditions of the time were believable and fascinating, especially the way herbs were used for medicinal complaints.
At the end of the book, there are a few pages explaining what is known about the real twins and their story, which is also well worth a read. I hadn’t heard of them before but would like to know more.
I would recommend this book to everyone; I don’t think you need to be a fan of historical fiction to enjoy the book. The twins have such an interesting story to tell, and everyone will fall in love with them. The book is so well-written that it never becomes heavy or too complicated; it’s a joy to read!
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January 21, 2023 A fascinating read about conjoined twins born in the 12th c. Though little is known of their actual life, the writer has crafted a tale that reflects the manners, customs and superstitions of the day. Well worth a read as you get into the mind of each individual twin.
June 26, 2022
The Maids of Biddenden is that rare beast which entirely absorbs the reader from page one. Helped by a flowing style of writing, and the immediate and impending danger that the twins find themselves in as six-year-olds, the reader is entirely absorbed in the story, and their fate, so much so that it's difficult to put the book down. That said, it is not just the twins themselves that drive the story - the people they interact with, those with their best and worst interests at heart - are all believable and well written, and there are occasions when the reader will be left frustrated and angered that some seem to face little punishment for their actions. The story has a number of points of view, and I found that they all worked very well - offering a view of the twins as they think of themselves, and also as others perceived them.
The story is effectively split in two; the first 45% tells the story of the Maids as young children. This element of the story is filled with a deep sense of foreboding that drives the story onward and makes the reader fearful for the future of the Maids. The narrative then moves forward a few years, and we see them as young women, trying to make a name for themselves and use their talents for good. At this point, the immediate landscape that the Maids encounter broadens considerably, and we move away from the nunnery and the settlement of Biddenden, into the politics and events of the early twelfth century, that almost consume the lives of the Maids for the remainder of their years - they lived during the time of the tragedy of the White Ship.
The story doesn't so much lose focus here, but because the impending danger has passed, the reader is instead absorbed in how the twins accomplish all that they do. There is a great deal of attention to detail here - both medical knowledge and music - and it's fascinating to see how the Maids' lives interact with known events from the period.
This is a delightful story. I was entirely engrossed and found myself snatching what time I could to carry on reading it - something that doesn't happen all that often. I highly, highly recommend The Maids of Biddenden for fans of historical fiction, and also for those who don't normally read the genre. The challenges that the twins face are well told, and the reaction their appearance sparks are conveyed well, although as the reader you will be offended by the prevailing belief that they are Godless and a monstrosity, and the fact that they were a 'sight to see' as opposed to always being appreciated for who they were and what they could accomplish. The historical notes at the back of the novel are also fascinating.
A truly heart-warming story.
The story is effectively split in two; the first 45% tells the story of the Maids as young children. This element of the story is filled with a deep sense of foreboding that drives the story onward and makes the reader fearful for the future of the Maids. The narrative then moves forward a few years, and we see them as young women, trying to make a name for themselves and use their talents for good. At this point, the immediate landscape that the Maids encounter broadens considerably, and we move away from the nunnery and the settlement of Biddenden, into the politics and events of the early twelfth century, that almost consume the lives of the Maids for the remainder of their years - they lived during the time of the tragedy of the White Ship.
The story doesn't so much lose focus here, but because the impending danger has passed, the reader is instead absorbed in how the twins accomplish all that they do. There is a great deal of attention to detail here - both medical knowledge and music - and it's fascinating to see how the Maids' lives interact with known events from the period.
This is a delightful story. I was entirely engrossed and found myself snatching what time I could to carry on reading it - something that doesn't happen all that often. I highly, highly recommend The Maids of Biddenden for fans of historical fiction, and also for those who don't normally read the genre. The challenges that the twins face are well told, and the reaction their appearance sparks are conveyed well, although as the reader you will be offended by the prevailing belief that they are Godless and a monstrosity, and the fact that they were a 'sight to see' as opposed to always being appreciated for who they were and what they could accomplish. The historical notes at the back of the novel are also fascinating.
A truly heart-warming story.
September 4, 2022
I always enjoy reading historical fiction and even more so if it's inspired by real life so when I heard about The Maids of Biddenden I instantly knew it was a book that I wanted to read and I'm so pleased that I did. This book is stunning!
The Maids of Biddenden were twins Mary and Eliza Chulkhurst who were born into a wealthy Kent family in 1100, but they were no ordinary twins as they were conjoined. Said to have been joined at the shoulder and the hip, back in these times their existence simultaneously horrified and amazed the common person and they were often thought to have been seen as a sign of the devil or an evil omen sent to expose some sin or even witchcraft in the local community. Needless to say that life wasn't easy for them right from the start but the girls soldier on and soon they find that they arer no longer just surviving, they are positively thriving!
I fell in love with Mary and Eliza right off the bat. Meeting them when they were just 6 years old and hidden away from sight being cared for by the local nuns, it was clear that despite their unfortunate condition, they both had their own individual personalities. They think that everyone is born like them and that one day they will go through a 'splitting' after which they will each be able to live their lives independently. The day that they realise that this procedure is never going to happen and that they are different was so exquisitely written it actually broke my heart to read it.
This is one of the best fiction based on fact novels I've ever read. GD Harper has managed to perfectly blend local legend and his imagination together in such a seamless fashion that doesn't feel in any way cumbersome to read. We have no way of knowing their real story but I'd love to think that their lives played out as told in this book. The sisters were an inspirational pair who showed courage, strength and tenacity. They overcame adversity and wanted to give back to their community and if the local folklore is to be believed, they founded a charity and to this day Biddenden cakes are given out and can also be purchased as souvenirs. The authors notes at the end of the book were particularly fascinating and they added to my overall enjoyment of the book, which then lead me to our favouorite search engine to seewhat else I could discover.
If historical fiction is your thing - actually no, forget that, not just historcial fictions fans - I think The Maids of Biddenden has a universal appeal for anyone who appreciates a great book and loves to lose themself in a fantastic story!
The Maids of Biddenden were twins Mary and Eliza Chulkhurst who were born into a wealthy Kent family in 1100, but they were no ordinary twins as they were conjoined. Said to have been joined at the shoulder and the hip, back in these times their existence simultaneously horrified and amazed the common person and they were often thought to have been seen as a sign of the devil or an evil omen sent to expose some sin or even witchcraft in the local community. Needless to say that life wasn't easy for them right from the start but the girls soldier on and soon they find that they arer no longer just surviving, they are positively thriving!
I fell in love with Mary and Eliza right off the bat. Meeting them when they were just 6 years old and hidden away from sight being cared for by the local nuns, it was clear that despite their unfortunate condition, they both had their own individual personalities. They think that everyone is born like them and that one day they will go through a 'splitting' after which they will each be able to live their lives independently. The day that they realise that this procedure is never going to happen and that they are different was so exquisitely written it actually broke my heart to read it.
This is one of the best fiction based on fact novels I've ever read. GD Harper has managed to perfectly blend local legend and his imagination together in such a seamless fashion that doesn't feel in any way cumbersome to read. We have no way of knowing their real story but I'd love to think that their lives played out as told in this book. The sisters were an inspirational pair who showed courage, strength and tenacity. They overcame adversity and wanted to give back to their community and if the local folklore is to be believed, they founded a charity and to this day Biddenden cakes are given out and can also be purchased as souvenirs. The authors notes at the end of the book were particularly fascinating and they added to my overall enjoyment of the book, which then lead me to our favouorite search engine to seewhat else I could discover.
If historical fiction is your thing - actually no, forget that, not just historcial fictions fans - I think The Maids of Biddenden has a universal appeal for anyone who appreciates a great book and loves to lose themself in a fantastic story!
October 22, 2022
In The Maids of Biddenden, by GD Harper, we follow twelfth-century conjoined twins Eliza and Mary Chulkhurst from the age of six to their deaths at 34.
When we first meet them, they’re living in a convent in Malling, where they’ve been raised by nuns since their mother died in childbirth. They spend most of their time confined to one room, to avoid disturbing the locals with their abnormal appearance.
Soon after this, they go to live with their father, Thomas, and new stepmother, Gudrun, in Biddenden. After the initial shock and a period of adjustment, they’re accepted into the local community. Eliza develops a talent for music, while Mary becomes a knowledgeable healer, and their reputation spreads across the county.
The Maids of Biddenden is an entertaining read that features lots of detail about work, domestic life, architecture, food, travel, entertainment, medicine, and important figures in the early 1100s. The author conducts a thorough exploration of the challenges a pair of conjoined twins might have faced at this time.
Religion is one of these challenges. Many characters, including most of the nuns in the convent, are (or, at least, start off being) scared of the twins because they believe they’re an abomination, and not “of God”. It was heart-breaking to see people reacting to them in such a hostile way, and failing to see that they were really just two little girls.
Harper does an excellent job of conveying how much influence the church had over ordinary lives during this period. We see how social care often fell to monks and nuns, who not only took in parentless children, but provided alms and medicine to those in need.
Meanwhile, those further up the religious hierarchy, such as bishops and archbishops, wield great power throughout the story. The more sympathetic ones help the sisters by ordering that they should be able to travel and go about their lives safely, and encouraging them to grow their talents.
Others, however, hinder their success by gatekeeping useful resources, or even suggesting the six-year-old twins’ fate ought to be “left to God” - i.e. they should be turned out to fend for themselves, and whether they survive or not is God’s will.
Gender and class also stymie Eliza and Mary’s progress. On the one hand, the fact that they’re regarded as unmarriageable means they’re free to pursue their interests in ways other women are not. On the other, if either of them did want to get married, they might get the other’s blessing but society would definitely be squeamish about the idea, and men tend to regard them as objects of sexual curiosity rather than potential love interests anyway.
The twins’ ambitions are only tolerated up to a certain point, with religious and secular authority figures repeatedly shutting them down for “forgetting their place” as women, not to mention daughters of a mere farmer, and this keeps the story realistic. Mary struggles to get men to recognise her superior knowledge and skills in growing medicinal plants, while Eliza has to tread carefully when writing songs about public figures.
Perhaps their biggest challenge, though, is one common to conjoined twins throughout history: they have to learn to get along, and accommodate one another.
Much of the tension in the book arises from Eliza being the more confident and outgoing of the pair; the boredom one sister suffers while the other is pursuing her particular interest; or one twin speaking out of turn when her counterpart has an audience with someone important, with mixed results. It’s gratifying to see them mature and develop a much-needed affinity with each other over the course of the novel.
Another classic source of tension is the girls’ stepmother, Gudrun, who initially goes to great lengths to stop them even coming to Biddenden. This, along with the medieval context, gives the story a fairytale-like dimension.
The Maids of Biddenden is an imaginative and richly detailed, yet realistic story of triumph over religious, gender, and class restrictions.
When we first meet them, they’re living in a convent in Malling, where they’ve been raised by nuns since their mother died in childbirth. They spend most of their time confined to one room, to avoid disturbing the locals with their abnormal appearance.
Soon after this, they go to live with their father, Thomas, and new stepmother, Gudrun, in Biddenden. After the initial shock and a period of adjustment, they’re accepted into the local community. Eliza develops a talent for music, while Mary becomes a knowledgeable healer, and their reputation spreads across the county.
The Maids of Biddenden is an entertaining read that features lots of detail about work, domestic life, architecture, food, travel, entertainment, medicine, and important figures in the early 1100s. The author conducts a thorough exploration of the challenges a pair of conjoined twins might have faced at this time.
Religion is one of these challenges. Many characters, including most of the nuns in the convent, are (or, at least, start off being) scared of the twins because they believe they’re an abomination, and not “of God”. It was heart-breaking to see people reacting to them in such a hostile way, and failing to see that they were really just two little girls.
Harper does an excellent job of conveying how much influence the church had over ordinary lives during this period. We see how social care often fell to monks and nuns, who not only took in parentless children, but provided alms and medicine to those in need.
Meanwhile, those further up the religious hierarchy, such as bishops and archbishops, wield great power throughout the story. The more sympathetic ones help the sisters by ordering that they should be able to travel and go about their lives safely, and encouraging them to grow their talents.
Others, however, hinder their success by gatekeeping useful resources, or even suggesting the six-year-old twins’ fate ought to be “left to God” - i.e. they should be turned out to fend for themselves, and whether they survive or not is God’s will.
Gender and class also stymie Eliza and Mary’s progress. On the one hand, the fact that they’re regarded as unmarriageable means they’re free to pursue their interests in ways other women are not. On the other, if either of them did want to get married, they might get the other’s blessing but society would definitely be squeamish about the idea, and men tend to regard them as objects of sexual curiosity rather than potential love interests anyway.
The twins’ ambitions are only tolerated up to a certain point, with religious and secular authority figures repeatedly shutting them down for “forgetting their place” as women, not to mention daughters of a mere farmer, and this keeps the story realistic. Mary struggles to get men to recognise her superior knowledge and skills in growing medicinal plants, while Eliza has to tread carefully when writing songs about public figures.
Perhaps their biggest challenge, though, is one common to conjoined twins throughout history: they have to learn to get along, and accommodate one another.
Much of the tension in the book arises from Eliza being the more confident and outgoing of the pair; the boredom one sister suffers while the other is pursuing her particular interest; or one twin speaking out of turn when her counterpart has an audience with someone important, with mixed results. It’s gratifying to see them mature and develop a much-needed affinity with each other over the course of the novel.
Another classic source of tension is the girls’ stepmother, Gudrun, who initially goes to great lengths to stop them even coming to Biddenden. This, along with the medieval context, gives the story a fairytale-like dimension.
The Maids of Biddenden is an imaginative and richly detailed, yet realistic story of triumph over religious, gender, and class restrictions.
July 6, 2022
must admit that I had never heard of the Maids of Biddenden but inspired by their true story the author has presented a lively, fictional account of their lives in the early part of the twelfth century.
Initially born into a fairly wealthy family, the conjoined twins, Eliza and Mary Chulkhurst, were abandoned as babies and brought up, hidden from public view, at Malling Abbey in Kent. When the Abbey falls into financial difficulties, mainly due to the care of the twins, and the fact that visitors are discouraged from visiting the Abbey in case the girls are discovered, Eliza and Mary are sent to live with their father, and step-mother, which owing to the horror and superstition surrounding the twins, and their own distinct personalities, proves to be fraught with difficulties.
Writing historical fiction brings its own challenges especially when based around the lives of those characters who actually lived during this time but by cleverly weaving historical facts with sympathetic fiction a tale emerges of two young women, growing to adulthood in a time that was prejudiced against those who were seen to be different. Eliza and Mary are certainly brought to life, and I enjoyed watching their progression from children to adults. Their individual quirks come out along with the squabbles and yet there is also deep abiding affection for each other. We feel their innocent bewilderment when, as children, they realise that they are so very different from everyone else and we also rejoice when they each find something to excel at, and enjoy.
The Maids of Biddenden is an interesting, and well written, fictional biography of two fascinating characters who, if folk legend is to be believed, went on to bequeath lands, known as the Bread and Cheese Lands, to the folk of Biddenden which, even today, supports a charity which on Easter Monday doles out food to widows and pensioners living in the area.
Initially born into a fairly wealthy family, the conjoined twins, Eliza and Mary Chulkhurst, were abandoned as babies and brought up, hidden from public view, at Malling Abbey in Kent. When the Abbey falls into financial difficulties, mainly due to the care of the twins, and the fact that visitors are discouraged from visiting the Abbey in case the girls are discovered, Eliza and Mary are sent to live with their father, and step-mother, which owing to the horror and superstition surrounding the twins, and their own distinct personalities, proves to be fraught with difficulties.
Writing historical fiction brings its own challenges especially when based around the lives of those characters who actually lived during this time but by cleverly weaving historical facts with sympathetic fiction a tale emerges of two young women, growing to adulthood in a time that was prejudiced against those who were seen to be different. Eliza and Mary are certainly brought to life, and I enjoyed watching their progression from children to adults. Their individual quirks come out along with the squabbles and yet there is also deep abiding affection for each other. We feel their innocent bewilderment when, as children, they realise that they are so very different from everyone else and we also rejoice when they each find something to excel at, and enjoy.
The Maids of Biddenden is an interesting, and well written, fictional biography of two fascinating characters who, if folk legend is to be believed, went on to bequeath lands, known as the Bread and Cheese Lands, to the folk of Biddenden which, even today, supports a charity which on Easter Monday doles out food to widows and pensioners living in the area.
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