THE GIRL WHO DARED TO DREAM
Diney Costeloe
Aria Books
October 13, 2022
400 pages
I had read a couple of this author’s previous books and thoroughly enjoyed them. I was excited to see that she has a new book.
This is a cozy family tale set in London pre WW 1. Our lead character is Mabel, a 15 year old girl who has high aspirations for herself. She does not want to go into “service” as most girls her age do. Mabel wants to continue in school and get a “proper” job. Tragedy strikes the family and Mabel cannot fulfill her plans. We follow her life as she is obliged to work as a servant for a wealthy family.
I’ve always enjoyed historical novels and period stories. The way of life over hundred years ago is very interesting. The author’s description of Mabel’s struggles at a job tugs at the reader’s heart. A bit of a mystery develops discrediting Mabel’s reputation.
This has been a great story to lose myself in. Mabel’s character shows amazing strength and determination for someone of her age. She experiences hardship but has the gumption and tenacity to rise above it all. She is headstrong but she is ethical. She is outspoken. She loves her family (mother, disabled father and 2 younger brothers) and wants to play a responsible role in that family.
I think this book would appeal to fans of Rosamund Pilcher. The writing style is similar, smooth flowing and easily draws the reader in. I appreciate a good story. These days, when the world is in so much turmoil, it feels good to lose myself in a good story.
Mabel is The Girl Who Dared to Dream and she achieved her Dream. Mabel is a young lady who is way ahead of her time!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an Advance Readers Copy.
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