Review by Booklist Review
In 1876 London, two Irish sisters struggle to survive by selling flowers and watercress. Abused by their father and eventually orphaned, the girls have a heartbreaking existence, with little food to eat and nights spent huddled in doorways. But when the girls accidentally become separated, their lives are changed forever. Fast-forward nearly 40 years, to when young Tilly Harper leaves the green hills of the Lake District to work in London as a housemother at Mr. Shaw's Home for Watercress and Flower Girls. Founded as a refuge for orphaned and disabled flower girls, the home provides food, shelter, and a livelihood for its charges. Shortly after Tilly arrives, she finds a box containing former resident Flora Flynn's diary documenting her search for her missing sister. When Tilly decides to find out what happened to Rosie, her own life is transformed. Gaynor (The Girl Who Came Home, 2014) once again brings history to life. With intriguing characters and a deeply absorbing story, her latest is a fascinating examination of one city's rich history and the often forgotten people who lived in it.--Gladstein, Carol Copyright 2015 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Library Journal Review
In 1876 London, eight-year-old flower seller Florrie and her beloved little sister, Rosie, are separated during a disturbance near Covent Garden and, sadly, lost to each other forever. In 1912, Tilly Harper earns a position in Shaw's Homes for Watercress and Flower Girls, leaving her younger sister Esther behind with little regret. By chance Tilly is given Florrie's old room and finds a notebook filled with memories of Rosie. Gaining self-confidence, Tilly investigates what she believes happened to the missing girl; is she right? Although these stories take place some 30 years apart and show contrasting sibling dynamics, both focus on the intense bond between sisters. It's easy to appreciate the author's intricate connections built among the four girls, but it becomes almost too easy to guess what's coming. Verdict Historical details and the unique perspective of penniless, physically challenged young girls could make Gaynor's second historical novel (after The Girl Who Came Home) a good book club choice. A tidy ending and sweet romance will satisfy readers hoping to exhale a long, contented sigh as they finish the last page.-Stacey Hayman, Rocky River P.L., OH (c) Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
