Jam and Roses
Jam and Roses by Mary Gibson is a historical fiction novel published by Head of Zeus on January 15, 2015. Set in London during 1923, the story unfolds in Bermondsey, a vibrant area known for its bustling docks and factories. The narrative follows Milly Colman, who works at Southwell’s jam factory, providing her with both financial independence and a reprieve from her challenging home life, where she must shield her family from her father’s violent behavior. As autumn arrives, a hop-picking trip in Kent offers the Colman women a much-needed escape, but a fateful decision on one September night tests Milly’s courage and resilience.
Readers will find a rich tapestry of life in 20th-century London, exploring themes of women’s strength and cultural heritage against the backdrop of World War II. The novel delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the struggles faced by women during this era. With 416 pages, this edition presents a detailed portrayal of Milly’s journey, highlighting the emotional and societal challenges of the time.
Official synopsis Publisher
The poignant and powerful second novel from the bestselling author of Custard Tarts and Broken Hearts.
London, 1923.
Bermondsey is the larder of London with its bustling docks, spice mill, tannery and factories.
Milly Colman knows she’s lucky. Working at Southwell’s jam factory all week means she can have a pay packet and a laugh with her mates come Saturday. It’s a welcome escape from home, where Milly must protect her mother and sisters from her father’s violent temper.
When autumn comes, hop-picking in Kent gives all the Colman women a longed-for respite. But it is there, on one golden September night, that Milly makes the mistake of her life and finds her courage and strength tested as never before.
PRAISE FOR JAM AND ROSES:
‘This book is raw and powerful and a fabulous read. This is where girl power came from; women like Milly and her family, girls who did not even have the vote at this time. This book is also a history lesson, telling the story of the general strike’ Mrs H, Amazon reviewer.
‘Well written, with pace, engaging characters, a good narrative and some suspense. A real authentic tone, too: the central characters reminded me of the formidable spirit of my mother/grandmothers who lived through, and survived, these demanding times‘ Fredmart, Amazon reviewer.
‘A fantastic read! I was hooked from the first paragraph, Mary Gibson is a fabulous and talented writer. A book you can’t put down but, yet you want to find out the ending without wanting the book to finish. Well done and thank you. Can’t wait to read the next book‘ Michelle Thompson, Amazon reviewer.
‘If you enjoy post war stories of women’s hardship, based in london, then this is the book to read. It kept me enthralled from the start. Highly recommended’ Shell R, Amazon reviewer.
‘So full of emotion and tragedies, but also humour, happiness, love and hate‘ Patsy, Amazon reviewer.
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