Valentine Grey
Valentine Grey by Sandi Toksvig is a digital original published by Virago in 2012, comprising 341 pages. Set in London in 1897, the narrative follows Valentine Grey, a young girl raised in the warm climate of India, who struggles with the constraints of Victorian society. Her life takes a turn when she reconnects with her adventurous cousin, Reggie, and his lover, Frank, who introduce her to the vibrant underground of London, including theatre and cycling.
As the story unfolds, the Boer War looms, prompting Reggie’s father to enlist him. However, it is Valentine who seizes the opportunity to don her cousin’s uniform and venture into battle, seeking both adventure and liberation. The book explores themes of gender, liberty, and the complexities of empire and injustice, providing a rich backdrop for Valentine’s journey. Readers will find a sweeping tale that delves into the societal constraints of the time while highlighting the personal struggles of its characters.
Official synopsis Publisher
London 1897 and a young girl, Valentine Grey, arrives in England. She’s been brought up in the remote and sunny climes of India and finds being forced into corsets and skirts in damp and cold country insufferable. The only bright spot: her exciting cousin, Reggie.
Reggie, and his lover Frank seek out the adventure the clandestine bars and streets of London offer and are happy to include Valentine in their secret, showing her theatre, gardens – even teaching her how to ride a bicycle.
And then comes the Boer War which Reggie’s father volunteers him for; the empire must be defended. But it won’t be Reggie who dons the Volunteer Regiment’s garb. Valentine takes her chance, puts on her cousin’s uniform, and, leaving Reggie behind, heads off to war. And for a long while it’s glorious and liberating for both of the cousins, but war is not glorious and in Victorian London homosexuality is not liberating . . .
This huge and sweeping story about gender and liberty, about empire and injustice is a wonderful and brilliant new departure by one of Britain’s best-loved writers and performers.
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