What do you think?
Rate this book
The Katherine Wheel #2
Peace Lily
Peace Lily is the sequel to DAFFODILS and book two of the 'Katherine Wheel' series.
After the appalling losses suffered during World War One, three of its survivors long for peace, unaware that its aftermath will bring different, but still daunting, challenges.
Katy trained as a mechanic during the war and cannot bear to return to the life of drudgery she left behind. A trip to America provides the dream ticket she has always craved and an opportunity to escape the strait-jacket of her working class roots. She jumps at the chance, little realising that it will change her life forever, but not in the way she’d hoped.
Jem lost not only an arm in the war, but also his livelihood, and with it, his self esteem. How can he keep restless Katy at home and provide for his wife? He puts his life at risk a second time, attempting to secure their future and prove his love for her.
Cassandra has fallen deeply in love with Douglas Flintock, an American officer she met while driving ambulances at the Front. How can she persuade this modern American to adapt to her English country way of life, and all the duties that come with inheriting Cheadle Manor? When Douglas returns to Boston, unsure of his feelings, Cassandra crosses the ocean, determined to lure him back.
As they each try to carve out new lives, their struggles impact on each other in unforeseen ways.
After the appalling losses suffered during World War One, three of its survivors long for peace, unaware that its aftermath will bring different, but still daunting, challenges.
Katy trained as a mechanic during the war and cannot bear to return to the life of drudgery she left behind. A trip to America provides the dream ticket she has always craved and an opportunity to escape the strait-jacket of her working class roots. She jumps at the chance, little realising that it will change her life forever, but not in the way she’d hoped.
Jem lost not only an arm in the war, but also his livelihood, and with it, his self esteem. How can he keep restless Katy at home and provide for his wife? He puts his life at risk a second time, attempting to secure their future and prove his love for her.
Cassandra has fallen deeply in love with Douglas Flintock, an American officer she met while driving ambulances at the Front. How can she persuade this modern American to adapt to her English country way of life, and all the duties that come with inheriting Cheadle Manor? When Douglas returns to Boston, unsure of his feelings, Cassandra crosses the ocean, determined to lure him back.
As they each try to carve out new lives, their struggles impact on each other in unforeseen ways.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2014
586 people are currently reading
488 people want to read
About the author
Alex Martin
11 books134 followersI came late to writing. No, that's wrong. I came late to publishing my writing. And what a thrilling ride it's proving to be.
I'm never happier than when bashing both brain and keyboard in my Plotting Shed wherever that may be! On gloriously creative days, I can look up and find hours have passed. I'm amazed the scenery is unchanged, fixed, when I've been absorbed in heart-stopping drama or tragedy, or romance.
At last, I am following my bliss. I'm a bit late to the party, but I'm dancing.
There was an old black and gold typewriter knocking about my childhood home. When I wasn't skinning my knees climbing trees or wandering aimlessly in the countryside with my dog and my dreams, I could be found, as now, typing away with imaginary friends whispering in my ear.
My first novel, The Twisted Vine, is based on a happy time picking grapes in France in the 1980s. I met some amazing people there but none as outrageous as those that sprang to life on my screen. Daffodils is based in Wiltshire, where I grew up. It attempts to portray how ordinary lives, and the rigid social order, were radically altered by the catalyst of the First World War. This book developed into The Katherine Wheel Series, with a sequel set in 1919 in the aftermath of WW1, Peace Lily, and Speedwell, taking the characters into the roaring twenties and the dangerous world of motor-racing. Willow (a novella) introduces the next generation who face daunting challenges in WW2 in Woodbine and Ivy, the final book in this epic saga which draws all the many threads together in the previous six books into a dramatic climax.
The Spirit Level comprises two dual-time ghost stories. The Rose Trail is set in the English Civil War and Triskelion has a Druid priestess giving Fay and Percy an urgent message for the modern world.
The next book is always just around the corner. I'm just listening to the whispers from the other side to get the full picture... And now that book (my tenth!) is here. Warrior Queens is the third book in The Spirit Level Series although the link is tenuous. Three friends struggle through adversity and only their bond can get them through. A modern tale of girlpower.
I'm never happier than when bashing both brain and keyboard in my Plotting Shed wherever that may be! On gloriously creative days, I can look up and find hours have passed. I'm amazed the scenery is unchanged, fixed, when I've been absorbed in heart-stopping drama or tragedy, or romance.
At last, I am following my bliss. I'm a bit late to the party, but I'm dancing.
There was an old black and gold typewriter knocking about my childhood home. When I wasn't skinning my knees climbing trees or wandering aimlessly in the countryside with my dog and my dreams, I could be found, as now, typing away with imaginary friends whispering in my ear.
My first novel, The Twisted Vine, is based on a happy time picking grapes in France in the 1980s. I met some amazing people there but none as outrageous as those that sprang to life on my screen. Daffodils is based in Wiltshire, where I grew up. It attempts to portray how ordinary lives, and the rigid social order, were radically altered by the catalyst of the First World War. This book developed into The Katherine Wheel Series, with a sequel set in 1919 in the aftermath of WW1, Peace Lily, and Speedwell, taking the characters into the roaring twenties and the dangerous world of motor-racing. Willow (a novella) introduces the next generation who face daunting challenges in WW2 in Woodbine and Ivy, the final book in this epic saga which draws all the many threads together in the previous six books into a dramatic climax.
The Spirit Level comprises two dual-time ghost stories. The Rose Trail is set in the English Civil War and Triskelion has a Druid priestess giving Fay and Percy an urgent message for the modern world.
The next book is always just around the corner. I'm just listening to the whispers from the other side to get the full picture... And now that book (my tenth!) is here. Warrior Queens is the third book in The Spirit Level Series although the link is tenuous. Three friends struggle through adversity and only their bond can get them through. A modern tale of girlpower.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
April 5, 2015
The aftermath of World War I is evident everywhere, the heartbreak is still fresh, when the two young women return to Cheadle Manor. Cassandra Smythe returns as the sole heir, after her brother Charles lost his life in the war. She has to take over the role of executive manager of the estate from her grieving and ageing father, but her mother is not ready to accept the new role of women in society.
Kathy Phipps returns to her husband, Jem, and her family who all work for Lord Robert and Lady Amelia on their vast estate. The camaraderie of the war is soon forgotten when the old order returns between working class and gentry.
A new reality awaits them in which life throws them several new curve balls. Jem lost an arm in the war, and is no longer able to continue his work as a gardener. Like all the disabled veterans, he is dumped on the trash heaps of history and must fend for himself. Kathy, who was trained as a mechanic in the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps, is no longer wanted in the army. The jobless couple must face an uncertain future, while life at the manor, with class conscious Lady Amelia in the lead, slowly picks up speed again.
The young people have to battle and adjust to an environment where the part of the population who did not participate in the war, do not understand the trauma and its aftermath for those who are trying to overcome their memories and nightmares of the battle front. The peace lilies deceptively grace the halls and homes. There is a cruel irony in their beauty.
This is a light read, in comparison with the outstanding first book 'Daffodils'. The spirit of hope is the the main ingredient in the story. Family relationships, love, and social prejudice throws obstacles on the road to recovery for the four young people: Kathy and Jem, Cassandra and Douglas.
Loyalty between husband and wife, between friends, between family, determine the outcome of Kathy's difficult journey. She is the main character, who has to overcome the one obstacle after the other to survive the past and future. She becomes the victim of circumstances and must find her way back to self-respect and hope. Like an old-fashioned corset, she could hardly breath or move easily without feeling crushed.
Cassandra's hardship will be on a different level, where money is no object, job security is not an issue, and prejudice is not a threat. In the end, their friendship will be tested in ways they have never seen coming.
A very good, and very relaxing read.
Kathy Phipps returns to her husband, Jem, and her family who all work for Lord Robert and Lady Amelia on their vast estate. The camaraderie of the war is soon forgotten when the old order returns between working class and gentry.
A new reality awaits them in which life throws them several new curve balls. Jem lost an arm in the war, and is no longer able to continue his work as a gardener. Like all the disabled veterans, he is dumped on the trash heaps of history and must fend for himself. Kathy, who was trained as a mechanic in the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps, is no longer wanted in the army. The jobless couple must face an uncertain future, while life at the manor, with class conscious Lady Amelia in the lead, slowly picks up speed again.
Jem:"Both sets of parents - Bert and Agnes; George and Mary - they still had to scratch about to put enough food on the table for their families. The manor was unchanged. Sir Robert and Lady Amelia were still lording it over the rest of them. What right had they to live in that fucking great mansion when he and Katy - and God knows she'd worked as hard as any man during that Godforsaken war - were bunked up with the Beagles in the tiny lodge house that guarded their posh, locked gate?"Lady Amelia's bitterness over her only son's death leads to the dismantling of relationships, even Cassandra's American fiance Douglas Flintock, leaves for Boston in a fury. It would lead to new paths for both girls when they sail over the Atlantic to rescue love, but run into trouble in the country for the brave and the free, where class differences are defined differently but just as cruel.
The young people have to battle and adjust to an environment where the part of the population who did not participate in the war, do not understand the trauma and its aftermath for those who are trying to overcome their memories and nightmares of the battle front. The peace lilies deceptively grace the halls and homes. There is a cruel irony in their beauty.
This is a light read, in comparison with the outstanding first book 'Daffodils'. The spirit of hope is the the main ingredient in the story. Family relationships, love, and social prejudice throws obstacles on the road to recovery for the four young people: Kathy and Jem, Cassandra and Douglas.
Loyalty between husband and wife, between friends, between family, determine the outcome of Kathy's difficult journey. She is the main character, who has to overcome the one obstacle after the other to survive the past and future. She becomes the victim of circumstances and must find her way back to self-respect and hope. Like an old-fashioned corset, she could hardly breath or move easily without feeling crushed.
Cassandra's hardship will be on a different level, where money is no object, job security is not an issue, and prejudice is not a threat. In the end, their friendship will be tested in ways they have never seen coming.
A very good, and very relaxing read.
June 5, 2022
great read!
Alex did it again! This book is wonderful! I am loving this series and cannot wait to read book 3!
Alex did it again! This book is wonderful! I am loving this series and cannot wait to read book 3!
July 31, 2016
Great sequel
Great sequel but can also be a great stand alone read. The story starts off where DAFFODILS ended and I enjoyed it just as much. The story is captivating and moves quickly. I'm looking forward to ordering the next book to see how this story continues.
Great sequel but can also be a great stand alone read. The story starts off where DAFFODILS ended and I enjoyed it just as much. The story is captivating and moves quickly. I'm looking forward to ordering the next book to see how this story continues.
February 21, 2022
I enjoyed this book set in the aftermath of World War One. Intriguing is the social impact of the war: The increasing liberation of women, the increasing breaking down of the rigid class structure in England and the terrible impact on the returning injured and devastated soldiers of all classes. There is also an interesting contrast between life and attitudes in the USA with those in England. Our heroine Katy and her family are subjected to terrible injustice as we follow the lives of the friends and lovers introduced in the first book. I recommend this series
February 21, 2022
Good 2nd book of the series
Book 2 after the war, deals with both Katy and Cassandra. Not quite as much action but still very good.
Book 2 after the war, deals with both Katy and Cassandra. Not quite as much action but still very good.
September 30, 2016
Great story
I read this book in one day! I had to keep going to find out what was going to happen next. I am truly invested in the lives of these fantastic characters and their story. I can't wait to read the next book but I also don't want to get to the end of their story.
I read this book in one day! I had to keep going to find out what was going to happen next. I am truly invested in the lives of these fantastic characters and their story. I can't wait to read the next book but I also don't want to get to the end of their story.
October 26, 2021
Brief synopsis from the book cover:
After the appalling losses suffered during World War One, three of its survivors long for peace, unaware that its aftermath will bring different, but still daunting, challenges.
Katy trained as a mechanic during the war and cannot bear to return to the life of drudgery she left behind. A trip to America provides the dream ticket she has always craved and an opportunity to escape the strait-jacket of her working class roots. She jumps at the chance, little realising that it will change her life forever, but not in the way she’d hoped.
Jem lost not only an arm in the war, but also his livelihood, and with it, his self esteem. How can he keep restless Katy at home and provide for his wife? He puts his life at risk a second time, attempting to secure their future and prove his love for her.
Cassandra has fallen deeply in love with Douglas Flintock, an American officer she met while driving ambulances at the Front. How can she persuade this modern American to adapt to her English country way of life, and all the duties that come with inheriting Cheadle Manor? When Douglas returns to Boston, unsure of his feelings, Cassandra crosses the ocean, determined to lure him back. As they each try to carve out new lives, their struggles impact on each other in unforeseen ways.
My rating:
Plot: 4 out of 5 stars
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Character development: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
Recommended for readers of:
Historical Fiction
General Fiction
Review:
This is a well written story that gives a great insight into live in Britain in the aftermath of WWI, it follows the members of the different social classes as they are struggling to pick up their lives again in a world where everything is changed . The story is well balanced, not only does it portrays the hardship of life, the trauma caused by the war and the social change that is sweeping Britain and the world but there is also space for a bit of love, friendship, loyalty and joy.
This book is the second in the series but the story concludes and the end of the book so it can also be read as a standalone.
Overall:
This is a well developed, story, very captivating. The book gives a realistic historical insight into live in Britain during a period that the world is recovering from the trauma and loss of WWI The plot flows well and is captivating. The characters feel realistic and their actions are described in great detail which gave the book an authentic feel.
After the appalling losses suffered during World War One, three of its survivors long for peace, unaware that its aftermath will bring different, but still daunting, challenges.
Katy trained as a mechanic during the war and cannot bear to return to the life of drudgery she left behind. A trip to America provides the dream ticket she has always craved and an opportunity to escape the strait-jacket of her working class roots. She jumps at the chance, little realising that it will change her life forever, but not in the way she’d hoped.
Jem lost not only an arm in the war, but also his livelihood, and with it, his self esteem. How can he keep restless Katy at home and provide for his wife? He puts his life at risk a second time, attempting to secure their future and prove his love for her.
Cassandra has fallen deeply in love with Douglas Flintock, an American officer she met while driving ambulances at the Front. How can she persuade this modern American to adapt to her English country way of life, and all the duties that come with inheriting Cheadle Manor? When Douglas returns to Boston, unsure of his feelings, Cassandra crosses the ocean, determined to lure him back. As they each try to carve out new lives, their struggles impact on each other in unforeseen ways.
My rating:
Plot: 4 out of 5 stars
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Character development: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
Recommended for readers of:
Historical Fiction
General Fiction
Review:
This is a well written story that gives a great insight into live in Britain in the aftermath of WWI, it follows the members of the different social classes as they are struggling to pick up their lives again in a world where everything is changed . The story is well balanced, not only does it portrays the hardship of life, the trauma caused by the war and the social change that is sweeping Britain and the world but there is also space for a bit of love, friendship, loyalty and joy.
This book is the second in the series but the story concludes and the end of the book so it can also be read as a standalone.
Overall:
This is a well developed, story, very captivating. The book gives a realistic historical insight into live in Britain during a period that the world is recovering from the trauma and loss of WWI The plot flows well and is captivating. The characters feel realistic and their actions are described in great detail which gave the book an authentic feel.
October 7, 2021
Peace Lily Book 2
This book takes place after WWI in England and America.Many young folks from all walks of life participated in WWI. When they returned home after a gruelling and arduous war which took place from July 29 1914 to November 11 1918, many didn’t return, and if they did, they were changed forever, either physically or mentally.Many died in the mud at Passchendaele.
This story is about how they had to adjust and find themselves. The world seemed upside down after the war. It was a time when the old class system differences were blurred a bit, between the upperclass and working class, especially for those who befriended one another during the war.
Cass and Katy had been great friends during the war, Cass as an ambulance driver, and Katy as a mechanic. Their friendship was tested as they were from different classes. Cass decided to go to Boston to see her fiancé, and she invited Katy as her companion. They travelled out to the coast to enjoy the sea. They all had a serene time at her Fiancé’s summer house in Falmouth, Massachusetts but the entire plan goes awry when something horrific happens. This storyline is very realistic as the social times were changing drastically between the classes. In the end conscience, empathy, and understanding change things for the better, bridging people together for the better.
This book takes place after WWI in England and America.Many young folks from all walks of life participated in WWI. When they returned home after a gruelling and arduous war which took place from July 29 1914 to November 11 1918, many didn’t return, and if they did, they were changed forever, either physically or mentally.Many died in the mud at Passchendaele.
This story is about how they had to adjust and find themselves. The world seemed upside down after the war. It was a time when the old class system differences were blurred a bit, between the upperclass and working class, especially for those who befriended one another during the war.
Cass and Katy had been great friends during the war, Cass as an ambulance driver, and Katy as a mechanic. Their friendship was tested as they were from different classes. Cass decided to go to Boston to see her fiancé, and she invited Katy as her companion. They travelled out to the coast to enjoy the sea. They all had a serene time at her Fiancé’s summer house in Falmouth, Massachusetts but the entire plan goes awry when something horrific happens. This storyline is very realistic as the social times were changing drastically between the classes. In the end conscience, empathy, and understanding change things for the better, bridging people together for the better.
July 12, 2021
Excellent series
After reading the first book I immediately read the second ie the series. What a hard life veterans male and female end up with . Do we ever learn from life's experiences? The class system, racial prejudice, equality of both sexes. I hope future generations see below the skin color and economic challenges.
After reading the first book I immediately read the second ie the series. What a hard life veterans male and female end up with . Do we ever learn from life's experiences? The class system, racial prejudice, equality of both sexes. I hope future generations see below the skin color and economic challenges.
September 18, 2021
Beautiful war romance.
I loved this story and It gave me an insight into the lives of people during war time. It follows the story of 2 friends who used to be maid and her mistress. As volunteers in the armythey become involved with all the suffering and heartbreak. Their lives change dramatically and it is an excellent follow-up of their exploits and lives after the war.
I loved this story and It gave me an insight into the lives of people during war time. It follows the story of 2 friends who used to be maid and her mistress. As volunteers in the armythey become involved with all the suffering and heartbreak. Their lives change dramatically and it is an excellent follow-up of their exploits and lives after the war.
October 11, 2021
Wonderful tale of post world war one England.
I loved this story centered on two young couples after the first World War. All four of them were involved in the war, and the aftermath tells a story of hopes shattered and love realized. The division of social classes becomes blessedly blurred for their generation. And what ensues is a tale that I found hard to put down.
I loved this story centered on two young couples after the first World War. All four of them were involved in the war, and the aftermath tells a story of hopes shattered and love realized. The division of social classes becomes blessedly blurred for their generation. And what ensues is a tale that I found hard to put down.
September 24, 2021
Peace Lily
Be careful about what you ask, desire, dream, want or wish cause it just might come true plus some stuff you didn't ask for and didn't want. In the end the price had been high but the reward was worth it.
Be careful about what you ask, desire, dream, want or wish cause it just might come true plus some stuff you didn't ask for and didn't want. In the end the price had been high but the reward was worth it.
November 12, 2021
Peace Lily
This is a very interesting book. It keeps one not wanting to put it down without reading all the way to the end. Its a delightful story of how real life has its good and bad times but ends up being real. Worth readin!
This is a very interesting book. It keeps one not wanting to put it down without reading all the way to the end. Its a delightful story of how real life has its good and bad times but ends up being real. Worth readin!
August 15, 2017
Fantastic! I was constantly at the edge of my seat! I love Alex Martin's writing!
May 15, 2018
Good series
February 12, 2019
Excellent everyone should read this
April 9, 2020
Another fantastic story
Can't wait to read the next two books which I have bought. Poor Katy is always walking into things that she doesn't deserve. Loved this one as well.
Can't wait to read the next two books which I have bought. Poor Katy is always walking into things that she doesn't deserve. Loved this one as well.
July 29, 2020
Can't wait for the next book!!
November 5, 2020
Interesting book
I really enjoyed this book. I recommend it for anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.
I really enjoyed this book. I recommend it for anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.
August 15, 2022
loved this.
I learned things about WWI that were new to me and loved the story. Very much worth reading. Go for it.
I learned things about WWI that were new to me and loved the story. Very much worth reading. Go for it.
November 18, 2021
Enjoying reading the continuing story of these characters. Really good job of showing the good and bad in them. I really admire Katy and Jem.
Currently reading
January 21, 2021I read the whole series and would recommend to read the whole series
June 15, 2022
Book Review- #2 Peace Lily by Alex Martin
I really enjoyed reading this, second in a series of five novels. The characters have depth, the social commentary is perceptive, and the story line is engaging.
Alex Martin is a master at capturing emotion and tone:
She sat back down on the running board of the car and watched the rain falling onto the wet courtyard. Pools collected where the cobbles had been worn down by horse's hooves for so many years. The sky, pregnant with water, dimmed into twilight with not even a nod to a sunset. The gloom matched her mood.
Cross-generational inter-relationships provide background:
Agnes laid the platter of sliced bread in the middle of the table. "You'd better wash those filthy hands before supper, too." Katy ground her teeth. As a married woman of twenty-four, she really didn't need to be told to wash her hands before eating. Folding her lips tight, she went to the scullery sink and poured water from the jug on to her palms before soaping off the black carbon.
In April, 1912, she was hired by the White Star Line to carry back the surviving members of Titanic's crew to England after they had been detained in the United States for investigations. The Lapland arrived in England on April 28, 13 days after the Titanic sank.
Their ocean liner, "The Lapland", blasted its foghorn and its massive bulk lifted, as they left the wide river-mouth and hit the open sea. There had been few ships to choose from for their voyage, as most were in dry dock being reconstructed after their service as troopships in the war…
She drew in another gulp of ozone-rich sea air. Soon the seagulls would return to land and just the vast Atlantic Ocean would surround them. She wasn't frightened of the sea. To Cassandra, it felt like a watery embrace…
In those days, traumatic experiences were best swept under the carpet and ignored:
The one subject they didn't discuss was the war. It was enough to acknowledge that each had served time in Flanders without dwelling on the scars.
One detects a certain cynicism about hypocrisy and judgemental religion:
They all trooped off to church, as normal. And, as normal, the piety spouted by the preacher left Cassandra unmoved. There never seemed to be any compassion in the sermons, only judgement. It didn't help her nerves.
I enjoyed reading apt descriptions:
She turned away and looked out over the windswept, wet desert of the Atlantic. It stretched away to seeming infinity without all the ugly structures people built on land.
Humour is always lurking, providing relief from the cruelty of social’betters’.
Lady Smythe's mouth dropped open and stayed that way for at least thirty seconds, without any words issuing from its usually busy orifice.
Jem’s bravery in learning to drive a Sunbeam motor car from a written booklet impressed me.
Only fifteen shillings, not a patch on the wages he'd got from Hayes for driving that old Sunbeam but still, it was ready cash.
Central to the whole story, was the fact that it was now peace after an horrific war:
The peace lily on the hall table had flowered in the heat; its single petal stood white and feminine against the dark foliage, but the shape of its stamen looked decidedly phallic. Cassandra thought it peculiarly unsuitable as a greeting for visitors and wondered if her mother would understand why.
An excellent read, warmly recommended!
I really enjoyed reading this, second in a series of five novels. The characters have depth, the social commentary is perceptive, and the story line is engaging.
Alex Martin is a master at capturing emotion and tone:
She sat back down on the running board of the car and watched the rain falling onto the wet courtyard. Pools collected where the cobbles had been worn down by horse's hooves for so many years. The sky, pregnant with water, dimmed into twilight with not even a nod to a sunset. The gloom matched her mood.
Cross-generational inter-relationships provide background:
Agnes laid the platter of sliced bread in the middle of the table. "You'd better wash those filthy hands before supper, too." Katy ground her teeth. As a married woman of twenty-four, she really didn't need to be told to wash her hands before eating. Folding her lips tight, she went to the scullery sink and poured water from the jug on to her palms before soaping off the black carbon.
In April, 1912, she was hired by the White Star Line to carry back the surviving members of Titanic's crew to England after they had been detained in the United States for investigations. The Lapland arrived in England on April 28, 13 days after the Titanic sank.
Their ocean liner, "The Lapland", blasted its foghorn and its massive bulk lifted, as they left the wide river-mouth and hit the open sea. There had been few ships to choose from for their voyage, as most were in dry dock being reconstructed after their service as troopships in the war…
She drew in another gulp of ozone-rich sea air. Soon the seagulls would return to land and just the vast Atlantic Ocean would surround them. She wasn't frightened of the sea. To Cassandra, it felt like a watery embrace…
In those days, traumatic experiences were best swept under the carpet and ignored:
The one subject they didn't discuss was the war. It was enough to acknowledge that each had served time in Flanders without dwelling on the scars.
One detects a certain cynicism about hypocrisy and judgemental religion:
They all trooped off to church, as normal. And, as normal, the piety spouted by the preacher left Cassandra unmoved. There never seemed to be any compassion in the sermons, only judgement. It didn't help her nerves.
I enjoyed reading apt descriptions:
She turned away and looked out over the windswept, wet desert of the Atlantic. It stretched away to seeming infinity without all the ugly structures people built on land.
Humour is always lurking, providing relief from the cruelty of social’betters’.
Lady Smythe's mouth dropped open and stayed that way for at least thirty seconds, without any words issuing from its usually busy orifice.
Jem’s bravery in learning to drive a Sunbeam motor car from a written booklet impressed me.
Only fifteen shillings, not a patch on the wages he'd got from Hayes for driving that old Sunbeam but still, it was ready cash.
Central to the whole story, was the fact that it was now peace after an horrific war:
The peace lily on the hall table had flowered in the heat; its single petal stood white and feminine against the dark foliage, but the shape of its stamen looked decidedly phallic. Cassandra thought it peculiarly unsuitable as a greeting for visitors and wondered if her mother would understand why.
An excellent read, warmly recommended!
November 25, 2014
Even though this was the second book in a series, it can certainly be read as a standalone book. Katy Phipps and Cass Smythe come from two very different worlds but show how their worlds have collided. The journey of the two girls through the war in Daffodils shows how they are alike and how they are different. The war changed so many things and so many things were left unchanged. But Katy accompanies Cassandra across the ocean for a trip to Boston. The story details their adventures of love and friendship in Boston. But when things go very wrong and Katy returns early, Jem, Katy's husband, stands by her for all time. Katy wants to dream of a better life but seems to always have roadblocks thrown in front of her.
Martin's character development and descriptions bring these families to life. I felt myself cheering for their successes and crying for their setbacks.
While there wasn't nearly the historical references in Peace Lily, I recommend this book for anyone looking for an enjoyable read. I'm hoping that there will be another book in the series and Martin has left that door open.
Martin's character development and descriptions bring these families to life. I felt myself cheering for their successes and crying for their setbacks.
While there wasn't nearly the historical references in Peace Lily, I recommend this book for anyone looking for an enjoyable read. I'm hoping that there will be another book in the series and Martin has left that door open.
January 26, 2017
This second book in the trilogy continues the story of Katy and Jem, and the characters from the manor, particularly Cass, with whom Katy has become friends by working together during the war. The aftermath of the war is felt by everyone, as disabled veterans return and cannot find jobs or understanding of what they have been through. Class issues that were unimportant during the war become significant again, especially in the relationship between Katy and Cass. Hired as Cass' personal maid to travel to Boston with her, Katy gets to experience her dream of adventure, but it ends in a traumatic event and she is forced to return to England in shame. Her husband, Jem, stands by her and supports her, as does her renewed friend, Cass. The themes in to second book revolve around family, class issues, the impact of war, and inevitable changes.
I immediately started Speedwell, the third book in the trilogy, upon finishing this one.
I immediately started Speedwell, the third book in the trilogy, upon finishing this one.
February 14, 2016
"Peace Lily" is an enlightening look at two women's contributions to WWI, and the struggles they encountered after the war, while trying to put the pieces of their lives back together.
Read full review in the 2016 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2016 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 5, 2022
Douglas is staying at the manor, but he ends uip at odds with his future MIL - something that is extremely easy to do. Finally, unable to take it any more, he leaves for the States, inviting Cass to visit him in Boston.
Cass can see the rundown condition of the estate. She says she is going to go over the books with their estate manager, Hastings, and see what can be done. Her mother has one of her usual fits, until her husband says he'd like his daughter to take over for him.
Every meal is a trial for Cass, no longer used to the rich food and multiple courses her mother demands at every meal, not after having years of plain Army fare. But her mother has a heary appetite for all that and has gained a great deal of weight, so a change to lighter fare is not in the cards at the table.
After getting things done and planned out with Hastings, Cass is ready to go to America. Jem, still without a prosthesis at the time, can't find a job. Cass says Katy can act as her lady's maid, which will pay well, and Katy can go with her to America. During this time, though, she'll have to stay in the servants' quarters and be called by her last name, and observe all the prewar conventions. But this wasn't supposed to kill their friendship...yet, ir nearly does. If it hadn't been for Ariadne, whom they met for tea when they go to London to shop, it would have killed their friendship completely.
At first, the Flintocks seem like a nice group by and large. One of Douglas's sisters is training to be a doctor, the other has been dutifully helping her father in his legal offices, but he won't let her read for the law. He wants to find some way to make Douglas finish law school and take over the law firm one day. His mother is from the South, and grew up on a plantation staffed by slaves, but now, her family are making more money without the slaves.
Douglas shows them around Boston and environs, usually with Douglas's best friend Fred around. Katy isn't a good sailor, so when they go up to the summer house on the beach, she stays at home, and Doug's friend Fred, feeling like a 5th wheel, stays on the shore and fishes all day. Fred gives no indication that he has fallen for Katy, until one day, when he cozies up to her when she's dozed off on the porch, and he tells her. Shocked to the core, she tells him she's married, and that she loves her husband with all her heart and soul. He becomes irate. She had lost her wedding ring on the ship when trying to see if fresh air would help her severe seasickness, and she has lost so much weight from seasickness that the ring fell off inro the ocean. She had been sure Doug would tell Fred she was married and off-limits, but neither he nor Cass said a word. The worst thing is Doug's sister Cheryl is in love with Fred, and has made a surprise visit, has seen the screaming Katie, and the snarling Fred, still trying to rape Katy again, and convinces herself that Katy is stealing her man. She feels jilted, so she writes a letter right after the incident, to Cass's mother, accusing Katy of wantonness and adultery, for stealing her man, as she sees it. It is also what she tells their family. Meanwhile, Katy is in shock, unable to do anything but scrub herself repeatedly in the tub, discard the clothes Fred ripped off her, and dress again. She stares off into space and doesn't speak. Cass finally gets the truth out of Katy, and shares it with Doug. They try to share it with his family, but the butler, about whose advances Katy had complained, lies about Katy and says she flirted with him. Unable to take anything more from the butler, about whom he has had other, similar complaints, Doug punches him on the jaw and knocks him out. Knowing there will never be any peace for Katie, and with unfinished business of their own, Doug funds a private cabin for Katy's trip back, and Cass pays her all her wages at once so she has what she needs.
Katy goes home and Jem meets her, and partway home, Jem - acting as chauffeur with Cass's Sunbeam - stops so Katy can tell her side of the story.
Not long after, Cass and Doug return, Doug having shipped his car over with them, allowing them to take their time driving home, Cass springs on the parents that the unfinished business was their marriage before a justice of the peace. Surprisingly, Mrs. Smythe has not said a word until dinner is over, and she laments not having the wedding in England. They make a lame excuse which, surprisingly, Mrs. Smythe accepts. It is a while later that the newlyweds bring up the subject of Katy and Cass tells them the truth, supported by Doug. While Cass's dad is accepting and sympathetic, he mother insists Katy is a wanton.
Katy finds something and thinks of a way that she mightbe able to get a job as a mechanic. It falls apart....but Cass and Doug, always full of ideas, and with the connections Cass has, make a decision. They set about doing something for their friends, who aren't allowed on Smythe lands, though their parents have had their jobs and housing retained - mostly because Mr. Smyth stood up to his wife.. But what about Jem and Katy? Jem got a prosthesis for hiw arm and has been working with and altering it to suit what he needs to do better. But it appears Lady Smythe has banned them from being hired anywhere on land owned by the manor. How will Cass and Doug keeo their promise to Katy and Jem?
Cass can see the rundown condition of the estate. She says she is going to go over the books with their estate manager, Hastings, and see what can be done. Her mother has one of her usual fits, until her husband says he'd like his daughter to take over for him.
Every meal is a trial for Cass, no longer used to the rich food and multiple courses her mother demands at every meal, not after having years of plain Army fare. But her mother has a heary appetite for all that and has gained a great deal of weight, so a change to lighter fare is not in the cards at the table.
After getting things done and planned out with Hastings, Cass is ready to go to America. Jem, still without a prosthesis at the time, can't find a job. Cass says Katy can act as her lady's maid, which will pay well, and Katy can go with her to America. During this time, though, she'll have to stay in the servants' quarters and be called by her last name, and observe all the prewar conventions. But this wasn't supposed to kill their friendship...yet, ir nearly does. If it hadn't been for Ariadne, whom they met for tea when they go to London to shop, it would have killed their friendship completely.
At first, the Flintocks seem like a nice group by and large. One of Douglas's sisters is training to be a doctor, the other has been dutifully helping her father in his legal offices, but he won't let her read for the law. He wants to find some way to make Douglas finish law school and take over the law firm one day. His mother is from the South, and grew up on a plantation staffed by slaves, but now, her family are making more money without the slaves.
Douglas shows them around Boston and environs, usually with Douglas's best friend Fred around. Katy isn't a good sailor, so when they go up to the summer house on the beach, she stays at home, and Doug's friend Fred, feeling like a 5th wheel, stays on the shore and fishes all day. Fred gives no indication that he has fallen for Katy, until one day, when he cozies up to her when she's dozed off on the porch, and he tells her. Shocked to the core, she tells him she's married, and that she loves her husband with all her heart and soul. He becomes irate. She had lost her wedding ring on the ship when trying to see if fresh air would help her severe seasickness, and she has lost so much weight from seasickness that the ring fell off inro the ocean. She had been sure Doug would tell Fred she was married and off-limits, but neither he nor Cass said a word. The worst thing is Doug's sister Cheryl is in love with Fred, and has made a surprise visit, has seen the screaming Katie, and the snarling Fred, still trying to rape Katy again, and convinces herself that Katy is stealing her man. She feels jilted, so she writes a letter right after the incident, to Cass's mother, accusing Katy of wantonness and adultery, for stealing her man, as she sees it. It is also what she tells their family. Meanwhile, Katy is in shock, unable to do anything but scrub herself repeatedly in the tub, discard the clothes Fred ripped off her, and dress again. She stares off into space and doesn't speak. Cass finally gets the truth out of Katy, and shares it with Doug. They try to share it with his family, but the butler, about whose advances Katy had complained, lies about Katy and says she flirted with him. Unable to take anything more from the butler, about whom he has had other, similar complaints, Doug punches him on the jaw and knocks him out. Knowing there will never be any peace for Katie, and with unfinished business of their own, Doug funds a private cabin for Katy's trip back, and Cass pays her all her wages at once so she has what she needs.
Katy goes home and Jem meets her, and partway home, Jem - acting as chauffeur with Cass's Sunbeam - stops so Katy can tell her side of the story.
Not long after, Cass and Doug return, Doug having shipped his car over with them, allowing them to take their time driving home, Cass springs on the parents that the unfinished business was their marriage before a justice of the peace. Surprisingly, Mrs. Smythe has not said a word until dinner is over, and she laments not having the wedding in England. They make a lame excuse which, surprisingly, Mrs. Smythe accepts. It is a while later that the newlyweds bring up the subject of Katy and Cass tells them the truth, supported by Doug. While Cass's dad is accepting and sympathetic, he mother insists Katy is a wanton.
Katy finds something and thinks of a way that she mightbe able to get a job as a mechanic. It falls apart....but Cass and Doug, always full of ideas, and with the connections Cass has, make a decision. They set about doing something for their friends, who aren't allowed on Smythe lands, though their parents have had their jobs and housing retained - mostly because Mr. Smyth stood up to his wife.. But what about Jem and Katy? Jem got a prosthesis for hiw arm and has been working with and altering it to suit what he needs to do better. But it appears Lady Smythe has banned them from being hired anywhere on land owned by the manor. How will Cass and Doug keeo their promise to Katy and Jem?
October 29, 2014
After reading Daffodils, I had to find out what happened to Katie and Jem. Now that I have read Peace Lily, I am wanting another book to tell me more about their lives. Post World War II historical fiction at it's best. Very believable, and absorbing read. Thank you Alex Martin.
May 4, 2015
Interesting and relatable characters, authentic dialogue!
Compelling and insightful look inside the lives of those so impacted by the Great War. The results of which so dramatically altered European social dynamics. Highly recommend this enjoyable book.
Compelling and insightful look inside the lives of those so impacted by the Great War. The results of which so dramatically altered European social dynamics. Highly recommend this enjoyable book.
March 28, 2017
I liked Peace Lily even more than Daffodils. With this second book in the trilogy, l have become more invested in the characters. I've already started Speedwell- the final installment. Kudos to Ms. Martin.
England, just after World War l
England, just after World War l
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews