Tuesday, August 4, 2009

The Four Graces

The Four Graces by Dorothy Emily Stevenson

Book 86 of 100 for the 100+ Reading Challenge

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Four Graces, first published in 1946, is my favorite D.E. Stevenson novel thus far. That's really saying something since I have enjoyed them all!

This is the story of a vicar and his four grown daughters who live in a small village during WWII. The novel explores life and love for this endearing family during this period of history. There is a fun cast of supporting characters including the annoying aunt who arrives after her flat in London has been bombed, the Oxford scholar who has come to study Roman ruins, and the military personnel stationed nearby. There are a few minor characters who appear both in this book and The Two Mrs. Abbotts, and for me that only added to its appeal.

D.E. Stevenson has a unique ability to take regular daily life and write it in a way that is so compelling and fun. Apart from the romance angle of the book, which you can see a mile off, nothing really happens in this book. And yet, I was riveted. Tucked into the story are reflections on everyday life that would stop me in my tracks for their profundity.

This is a wonderful read I wholeheartedly recommend.

Source: Library

3 comments:

The Reading Momster said...

Gosh! I need to surely get to this author then! Thank you for the lovely recommendation!

bermudaonion said...

I love the cover - so different from today's covers. The book sounds delightful too.

Jeanette said...

I am sure I will get this read at some point as I have every intention of reading every single D.E. Stevenson novel I can get my hands on. :-)
I am glad you've been enjoying her books!