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Rag-and-Bone Christmas
Don’t miss the brand-new festive saga from the No.1 Sunday Times bestselling author Dilly Court!
Paradise Row, London. December 1865.
Snow is falling fast and Sally Suggs is working tirelessly to bring in enough money to keep bread on the table. Her father, a skilled rag-and-bone man, has fallen ill and now Sally has taken up his trade.
But this is a man’s world and competition is fierce, and Sally’s rival Finn Kelly always seems to be one step ahead. Her family’s one valuable possession is their horse, Flower, yet with no one to protect them, London’s underbelly of black-market traders circle closer.
Sally needs to find help in the most unexpected places if they are to survive…
Paradise Row, London. December 1865.
Snow is falling fast and Sally Suggs is working tirelessly to bring in enough money to keep bread on the table. Her father, a skilled rag-and-bone man, has fallen ill and now Sally has taken up his trade.
But this is a man’s world and competition is fierce, and Sally’s rival Finn Kelly always seems to be one step ahead. Her family’s one valuable possession is their horse, Flower, yet with no one to protect them, London’s underbelly of black-market traders circle closer.
Sally needs to find help in the most unexpected places if they are to survive…
520 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2020
295 people are currently reading
373 people want to read
About the author
Dilly Court
83 books417 followersDilly Court grew up in North-east London and began her career in television, writing scripts for commercials. She is married with two grown-up children and four grandchildren, and now lives in Dorset on the beautiful Jurassic Coast with her husband. She is the author of eighteen novels and also writes under the name of Lily Baxter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
December 27, 2024
Library blind-pick: I recently saw a good review for one of Dilly Court’s many books so when I saw this at the library I thought I would give this author a try. Also, I just had to squeeze in one final Christmas book before the Big Day 🎄
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This wonderful novel is set in Paradise Row, London. December 1865. While snow is falling all around her, Sally works tirelessly to bring in enough money to fed her and her ill father. Her father, Ted, once a skilled rag-and-bone man, has reached the end of his working days having fallen ill and so, it is all up to Sally to provide for them and her beloved horses…
“One thing she did know for certain was that Flower belonged to her and her alone. Nothing and no one would separate them.” 🥰
Honestly, I wasn’t aware of what a rag-and-bone man was, so incase anyone else is wondering (if maybe I am just being stupid 🤪) it is ‘a person who travels round an area buying old or unwanted clothes and household items in order to sell them on.’ But most importantly, this is a man’s world and competition is fierce. But what choice does she have? Sally searches high and low for career opportunities and finds herself in the most unexpected of places…
“The gangs in London are ruled by vicious thugs who will stop at nothing when large sums of money are concerned.”
All the while, Sally’s beloved and extremely valuable Andalusian horse, Flower, is at the forefront of her mind. She is the family’s one valuable possession. At many times throughout the book it is unclear who is to be trusted, especially when it comes to Flower 🐎 With no one to protect them, London's underbelly of black-market traders circle closer. Help is needed. Who will provide?
Kelly? Gideon? Both men are fighting for Sally’s trust and affection. But the question is who can be trusted when money is involved?
“Sometimes you can know someone for years and take them for granted, and it’s only when that relationship is threatened that you realise you can’t live without that person.” ♥️ This story is so rich in both plot and characters. And moreover, it is told with such beauty and grace; even the tough, cruelty of the world they live in is described in a smooth and gentle manner. It is truly beautiful to read. I am not usually one for much description in books but Dilly wrote with such elegance that I couldn’t help but be blown away by the simple beauty of it: ‘The pale winter sun was reflected on the still waters of the ornamental lake, and a cold wind tugged at Sally’s Shadwell as they rode off toward Hill Farm.’ - This is the first Dilly Court book I have read, but if her other books are written in such a way I will definitely have to get reading them.
Over the course of the book, Dilly creates a range of complex characters; some of which we grow to love and others that are hateful creatures. We share in the most heartwarming moments but also, the most painful and frightening ones. I found myself very attached to Sally by the end and almost wish there was a sequel to make sure she, and her family are living their best lives.
Overall, this is a beautifully told story. Full of character. I was surprised how much I enjoyed the historical aspect to it; I credit the author for making it so entertaining and engaging. And despite the vast number of years that have passed since 1865, I found these characters to be very relatable. After all, they are still people with feelings and needs.
The end was very emotional 🥹 so tender and simply wonderful…a perfect way to end the last Festive novel of the year. Merry Christmas everyone, I hope you all have a joyful day 🎄🙏🏼 🥰
ANY DILLY COURT FANS? 📚 looking for recommendations please 🙏🏼
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This wonderful novel is set in Paradise Row, London. December 1865. While snow is falling all around her, Sally works tirelessly to bring in enough money to fed her and her ill father. Her father, Ted, once a skilled rag-and-bone man, has reached the end of his working days having fallen ill and so, it is all up to Sally to provide for them and her beloved horses…
“One thing she did know for certain was that Flower belonged to her and her alone. Nothing and no one would separate them.” 🥰
Honestly, I wasn’t aware of what a rag-and-bone man was, so incase anyone else is wondering (if maybe I am just being stupid 🤪) it is ‘a person who travels round an area buying old or unwanted clothes and household items in order to sell them on.’ But most importantly, this is a man’s world and competition is fierce. But what choice does she have? Sally searches high and low for career opportunities and finds herself in the most unexpected of places…
“The gangs in London are ruled by vicious thugs who will stop at nothing when large sums of money are concerned.”
All the while, Sally’s beloved and extremely valuable Andalusian horse, Flower, is at the forefront of her mind. She is the family’s one valuable possession. At many times throughout the book it is unclear who is to be trusted, especially when it comes to Flower 🐎 With no one to protect them, London's underbelly of black-market traders circle closer. Help is needed. Who will provide?
Kelly? Gideon? Both men are fighting for Sally’s trust and affection. But the question is who can be trusted when money is involved?
“Sometimes you can know someone for years and take them for granted, and it’s only when that relationship is threatened that you realise you can’t live without that person.” ♥️ This story is so rich in both plot and characters. And moreover, it is told with such beauty and grace; even the tough, cruelty of the world they live in is described in a smooth and gentle manner. It is truly beautiful to read. I am not usually one for much description in books but Dilly wrote with such elegance that I couldn’t help but be blown away by the simple beauty of it: ‘The pale winter sun was reflected on the still waters of the ornamental lake, and a cold wind tugged at Sally’s Shadwell as they rode off toward Hill Farm.’ - This is the first Dilly Court book I have read, but if her other books are written in such a way I will definitely have to get reading them.
Over the course of the book, Dilly creates a range of complex characters; some of which we grow to love and others that are hateful creatures. We share in the most heartwarming moments but also, the most painful and frightening ones. I found myself very attached to Sally by the end and almost wish there was a sequel to make sure she, and her family are living their best lives.
Overall, this is a beautifully told story. Full of character. I was surprised how much I enjoyed the historical aspect to it; I credit the author for making it so entertaining and engaging. And despite the vast number of years that have passed since 1865, I found these characters to be very relatable. After all, they are still people with feelings and needs.
The end was very emotional 🥹 so tender and simply wonderful…a perfect way to end the last Festive novel of the year. Merry Christmas everyone, I hope you all have a joyful day 🎄🙏🏼 🥰
ANY DILLY COURT FANS? 📚 looking for recommendations please 🙏🏼
🌟🌟🌟🌟
October 10, 2020
Snow is falling and Sally Sughs works tirelessly to bring in enough money to feed her and her father. Her father was a skilled rag and bone man but he's now in ill health and Sally has taken over his run. competition is fierce and Sally's rival, Finn Kelly, always seems to be one step ahead. Sally's only valuable possession is her horse, Flower, and theres unscrupulous people who will go to any lengths to get their hands on Flower.
Once again, Dilly Court has given us another gem to read. The story centers around Sally and her ever growing family of waifs and strays. Sally's father and their cart horse, Boney have had to retire from the rag trade. Sally has to look for work elsewhere. She has two men vying for her affections, but which one will, suceed? Another well written book with lots of likable characters. You will be rooting for Sally all the way through this most enjoyable historical fictions book.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #HarperCollinsUK #HarprFiction and the author #DillyCourt for my ARC in exchange for an honest review
Once again, Dilly Court has given us another gem to read. The story centers around Sally and her ever growing family of waifs and strays. Sally's father and their cart horse, Boney have had to retire from the rag trade. Sally has to look for work elsewhere. She has two men vying for her affections, but which one will, suceed? Another well written book with lots of likable characters. You will be rooting for Sally all the way through this most enjoyable historical fictions book.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #HarperCollinsUK #HarprFiction and the author #DillyCourt for my ARC in exchange for an honest review
October 31, 2020
What can I say? A brilliant story, Dilly Court at her best. I loved it!
The year is 1865 Sally Suggs lives in London with her father who is a Rag and Bone Man. Sally tries to keep the business going when her father suffers ill health, but things don't go her way. Sally owns a horse that is worth a lot of money, a lasting memory of her mother, she can't bear to be parted from Flower, but as time goes on and she struggles to buy food and pay the rent it looks as though she may be forced to sell her beloved Flower.
The year is 1865 Sally Suggs lives in London with her father who is a Rag and Bone Man. Sally tries to keep the business going when her father suffers ill health, but things don't go her way. Sally owns a horse that is worth a lot of money, a lasting memory of her mother, she can't bear to be parted from Flower, but as time goes on and she struggles to buy food and pay the rent it looks as though she may be forced to sell her beloved Flower.
March 30, 2021
Plenty of reading in this year-long story of a young woman with her father's fast-failing rag and bone business. She has two horses - the worked out carthorse and her late mother's riding horse, originally from the circus.
If you like a story of London's past, working one's way up and with friends, horses and good cheer, take the reins.
I read this e-ARC book from Fresh Fiction and Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
If you like a story of London's past, working one's way up and with friends, horses and good cheer, take the reins.
I read this e-ARC book from Fresh Fiction and Net Galley. This is an unbiased review.
January 20, 2023
To było fascynujące doświadczenie! Niezwykle esencjonalna podróż do dziewiętnastowiecznego Londynu! Historia pełna nieobliczalnych szubrawców, parszywych przeciwności losu i druzgocąco niebezpiecznych scen, jednocześnie piękna, wartościowa i niepowtarzalna. W odczuciu zdumiewająco baśniowa, mocno świąteczna i niesamowicie wzruszająca. Święta handlarki starociami to niecodzienna powieść historyczna, inspirująca ludzką dobrocią oraz ciepłą życzliwością, fabularnie stanowiąca wspaniałą i niespodziewanie współczesną zachętę do szukania przedmiotom drugiego życia. Przygoda po prostu wyśmienita!
November 26, 2022
This doesn't really have the need to be 300+ pages. The story becomes so convoluted and just keeps going round and round, led by the heroine, who, by the way, is a very stiff character. Her love towards the hero wasn't reflected much in her actions, I know she's busy, but there are other ways to show that, and she simply didn't give.
ONE character here was so annoying and kinda bipolar, based on her actions. But apparently, she's just a very spoiled kid who keeps forcing the second male lead to marry her and keeps hurting the heroine for that reason. And the heroine, yes, she is kind-hearted indeed, but please, I'd like it more if she reacted like a normal person and slap that bitch at least once instead of tolerating her almost irredeemable acts and keeping on convincing that man she loves, which is a good character, to marry that little devil. Please, there are other fishes in the sea. Why let him settle with that girl?
And last but not least. This is supposed to be a Christmas novel, but it didn't feel like it. Maybe that's because all characters are poor and destitute, but that's not really what I want in celebrating Christmas.
ONE character here was so annoying and kinda bipolar, based on her actions. But apparently, she's just a very spoiled kid who keeps forcing the second male lead to marry her and keeps hurting the heroine for that reason. And the heroine, yes, she is kind-hearted indeed, but please, I'd like it more if she reacted like a normal person and slap that bitch at least once instead of tolerating her almost irredeemable acts and keeping on convincing that man she loves, which is a good character, to marry that little devil. Please, there are other fishes in the sea. Why let him settle with that girl?
And last but not least. This is supposed to be a Christmas novel, but it didn't feel like it. Maybe that's because all characters are poor and destitute, but that's not really what I want in celebrating Christmas.
November 23, 2021
Just finished! What a wonderful book! I thoroughly enjoyed it!
It's London in 1865, Sally Suggs lives in London with her Father who is a Rag n Bone man. Due to ill health her Father has to give up work. They then struggle , they barely have enough money to pay the rent or buy food. Sally tries to find work to support her Father and herself. You follow Sallys story. There's love interests, enemies, rivals and of course her beloved horse Flower who she adores.
This book is full of wonderful characters. The storyline is great and you really get into the story and love the characters. It is quite an emotional book too, I shed a few tears. I really loved reading about the way they lived in the 1800's the jobs, how they ran a house , food , the Rag n Bone trade and life in general. It was really interesting to read.
This was a wonderful book and I did not want the book to end.
Dilly Court has a new fan and I cannot wait to read more of her books.
I'm giving this book five stars *****
It's London in 1865, Sally Suggs lives in London with her Father who is a Rag n Bone man. Due to ill health her Father has to give up work. They then struggle , they barely have enough money to pay the rent or buy food. Sally tries to find work to support her Father and herself. You follow Sallys story. There's love interests, enemies, rivals and of course her beloved horse Flower who she adores.
This book is full of wonderful characters. The storyline is great and you really get into the story and love the characters. It is quite an emotional book too, I shed a few tears. I really loved reading about the way they lived in the 1800's the jobs, how they ran a house , food , the Rag n Bone trade and life in general. It was really interesting to read.
This was a wonderful book and I did not want the book to end.
Dilly Court has a new fan and I cannot wait to read more of her books.
I'm giving this book five stars *****
January 18, 2021
Life is very hard for Sally and her dad who was in the rag-and-bone trade but had to give it up as arthritis gets a grip on his body. Dilly Court shows us how difficult was to survive on those times in a big city and the story has a happy ending as it should be.
I liked it overall, it just got a bit repetitive in some parts.
I liked it overall, it just got a bit repetitive in some parts.
December 21, 2022
What a truly wonderful book, I was transported to Sally’s world and I adored it!.
All the trials and tribulations she had to go through could make anyone give up but not Sally.
Even though she barley had nothing at all she provided for orphans, her dad and her friend and anyone else who needed help and of course she always made sure her beloved horse Flower was provided for.
This is my first book by Dilly Court and it won’t be my last.
All the trials and tribulations she had to go through could make anyone give up but not Sally.
Even though she barley had nothing at all she provided for orphans, her dad and her friend and anyone else who needed help and of course she always made sure her beloved horse Flower was provided for.
This is my first book by Dilly Court and it won’t be my last.
August 21, 2021
Sally Suggs is unsure about Kelly, until she thinks he has another love interest. He is always there for her, in business and helping to support her family. I like reading books by this author and in the end the girl falls in love with her man. Would recommend this book to the romantics out there
December 30, 2024
an okay story, okay characters, great settings! i was a bit miffed at the amount of horse content, which wasn’t really for me, but i loved finding out more about the rag and bone trade & it was very feel good in the end
September 14, 2020
A magical beautiful read from this author once again.
It will touch your heart.
Paradise Row Pentroville, London 1865.
Sally Suggs works along side her da Edward, the rag and bone trade.
It's december and snowing hard, and her da worries about her she nearly twenty years old and not a little girl no more, her pa is finding the rounds harder especially in this weather his joints were not getting any better.
sally has two beloved horses Boney and Flower her dead mums thoroughbred and she wouldn't ever part with her.
working round the streets with Boney and the cart she saw women in desperation out on the streets at night there's a lot of poverty and christmas would be another day to these families.
Gideon Lawrence a vet takes a look at old Boney for sally he is near his time and offers to take him to retire up at Hill Farm in highgate to live out his days.
what are Sally and her pa to do now?
Two men want Sally's affection Gideon and Finn Kelly who both go out of their way to do everything to help them both.
This book is inspiring, Sally is a strong willed girl,that will do anything to help her loved ones and animals, I loved it all the way through, it pulled at my emotions, was never a dull moment, will happiness come for the characters in the end? its a must read for readers to love from this talented author.
It will touch your heart.
Paradise Row Pentroville, London 1865.
Sally Suggs works along side her da Edward, the rag and bone trade.
It's december and snowing hard, and her da worries about her she nearly twenty years old and not a little girl no more, her pa is finding the rounds harder especially in this weather his joints were not getting any better.
sally has two beloved horses Boney and Flower her dead mums thoroughbred and she wouldn't ever part with her.
working round the streets with Boney and the cart she saw women in desperation out on the streets at night there's a lot of poverty and christmas would be another day to these families.
Gideon Lawrence a vet takes a look at old Boney for sally he is near his time and offers to take him to retire up at Hill Farm in highgate to live out his days.
what are Sally and her pa to do now?
Two men want Sally's affection Gideon and Finn Kelly who both go out of their way to do everything to help them both.
This book is inspiring, Sally is a strong willed girl,that will do anything to help her loved ones and animals, I loved it all the way through, it pulled at my emotions, was never a dull moment, will happiness come for the characters in the end? its a must read for readers to love from this talented author.
January 19, 2023
A so-so story. At 500+ pages longer than the average novel of its sort and arguably too long, it was certainly overly drawn out in places.
Repetitive in places, in others, frustratingly and, on occasion, laughably implausible; quite how Sally's mother came to have a thoroughbred Andalusian horse ... Hmm! Something that was never explained, it niggled at the back of my mind throughout the reading of the book. That Sally is supposedly destitute and on the verge of becoming homeless and yet always has money to feed all these waifs and strays, yet another one of those things that I found myself pondering throughout; that the 'commoners' seemly mix social {and often on a level with} not just the landed gentry but lords, another one. And yet ...
Rated ****, 'I really liked it', on GoodReads, I found this book so easy to escape into, on top of which, where the characters.
OK, so they weren't always believable, indeed I found some of them caricatures, their actions, not something I'd have expected of them as individuals and certainly not something I'd have expected of someone of their gender/class and yet, for all of that, highly readable, I found myself inordinately caught up in the lives of Sally and co.
Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Repetitive in places, in others, frustratingly and, on occasion, laughably implausible; quite how Sally's mother came to have a thoroughbred Andalusian horse ... Hmm! Something that was never explained, it niggled at the back of my mind throughout the reading of the book. That Sally is supposedly destitute and on the verge of becoming homeless and yet always has money to feed all these waifs and strays, yet another one of those things that I found myself pondering throughout; that the 'commoners' seemly mix social {and often on a level with} not just the landed gentry but lords, another one. And yet ...
Rated ****, 'I really liked it', on GoodReads, I found this book so easy to escape into, on top of which, where the characters.
OK, so they weren't always believable, indeed I found some of them caricatures, their actions, not something I'd have expected of them as individuals and certainly not something I'd have expected of someone of their gender/class and yet, for all of that, highly readable, I found myself inordinately caught up in the lives of Sally and co.
Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
December 21, 2020
I wasn't sure about this at the beginning, would Sally sell Flower? Yes, no, yes no. But then it improved! This wasn't my favourite but I enjoyed it in the end.
October 21, 2020
Dilly Court is an author who I love to read. This is a great story but i did feel as if it was lacking on some of the details that Dilly Court is so good at.
The story is a great concept with Sally trying to look after her father and also her friend and three boys that need a home, but the storyline with Feather did feel to become repetitive an also i was left with questions at the end of the book, such as did Sally pay back the money did Gideon pay back Sally? Did Vassey and Collins get charged with the robbery of the horse and quite a few more.
So in all a great story it just lacked some of the finer details towards the end.
The story is a great concept with Sally trying to look after her father and also her friend and three boys that need a home, but the storyline with Feather did feel to become repetitive an also i was left with questions at the end of the book, such as did Sally pay back the money did Gideon pay back Sally? Did Vassey and Collins get charged with the robbery of the horse and quite a few more.
So in all a great story it just lacked some of the finer details towards the end.
August 8, 2021
I love Dilly Court books but this was really ennoying. First half book was amazing, but then I feel the main character couldn't make up her mind, I feel she uses both gentelmen. Especially the end was ennoying.. Kelly done everything for Sally and still she left him doing her dreams, from my experience being in marriage is to see and looking for compromises and she was very selfish. Poor guy bought a farm, wanted to do everything for her and she wasn't happy to help him in house work... Literary Wtf!!! She was behaving like stubborn child.. Of course she married him but he was ejected twice!!! Two stars for good beginning.
November 2, 2020
Sally
Sally worked with her father on the rag and bone cart very hard work but she never complained but her dad was poorly and Sally was finding it hard plus she helped anyone she could like 3 young boys she looked out for. A really great book with lots of twists and turns well worth 5 stars.
Sally worked with her father on the rag and bone cart very hard work but she never complained but her dad was poorly and Sally was finding it hard plus she helped anyone she could like 3 young boys she looked out for. A really great book with lots of twists and turns well worth 5 stars.
November 27, 2020
I truly loved this book, as always with a Dilly Court book you know you are going to be immersed in a marvelous storyline and this was no exception. Set in 1865 in London and the surrounding countryside this will sure be a great hit with saga lovers.
October 23, 2020
Good cheery Christmas tale, just what we need in these testing times (2020)
December 22, 2021
😽😻📚Claire Bear & Mel Mel's Book Reviews 📚😻😽 'Rag and Bone Christmas' by Dilly Court.
Genre: Historical Fiction
About the Book: "London. December 1865. Sally Suggs is working tirelessly to bring in enough money to keep bread on the table. Her father, a skilled rag-and-bone man, has fallen ill and now Sally has taken up his trade. Her family’s one valuable possession is their horse, Flower, yet with no one to protect them, London’s underbelly of black-market traders circle closer. Sally needs to find help in the most unexpected places if they are to survive."
My Review: Fantastic Novel! I love the author's writing style. A great balance of show and not tell with no over description. The story hooked me immediately. It is entertaining, engaging and pulls at the heartstrings. The protagonist is three dimensional, likeable and relatable. She is a strong independent woman with hard work ethics. I love how she cares for her father and how the group of friends in poverty stick together. I felt such empathy and connection to the main characters. I could picture the winter snowy settings throughout. The book has such a beautiful ending, a lovely conclusion to the story.
Triggers - Violence, Poverty and Poor Treatment of Women.
I am really enjoying Dilly Court's novels and I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a similar genre.
Disclaimer: My Book Reviews are based on my own opinions and experiences only.
If you would like to see more of my Book Reviews please visit - www.goodreads.com/clairebearmelmel
Or clairebearmelmel on Instagram
Genre: Historical Fiction
About the Book: "London. December 1865. Sally Suggs is working tirelessly to bring in enough money to keep bread on the table. Her father, a skilled rag-and-bone man, has fallen ill and now Sally has taken up his trade. Her family’s one valuable possession is their horse, Flower, yet with no one to protect them, London’s underbelly of black-market traders circle closer. Sally needs to find help in the most unexpected places if they are to survive."
My Review: Fantastic Novel! I love the author's writing style. A great balance of show and not tell with no over description. The story hooked me immediately. It is entertaining, engaging and pulls at the heartstrings. The protagonist is three dimensional, likeable and relatable. She is a strong independent woman with hard work ethics. I love how she cares for her father and how the group of friends in poverty stick together. I felt such empathy and connection to the main characters. I could picture the winter snowy settings throughout. The book has such a beautiful ending, a lovely conclusion to the story.
Triggers - Violence, Poverty and Poor Treatment of Women.
I am really enjoying Dilly Court's novels and I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a similar genre.
Disclaimer: My Book Reviews are based on my own opinions and experiences only.
If you would like to see more of my Book Reviews please visit - www.goodreads.com/clairebearmelmel
Or clairebearmelmel on Instagram
May 30, 2022
particolare......
non avevo mai letto nulla di quest'autrice ma la CE pubblica sempre letture di generi diversi per cui, uscito in offerta sul digitale, l'ho preso subito
chi si aspetta la kleypas o la quinn, qui resta deluso
l'autrice ha un genere tutto suo, dove alla precisione storica e narrativa si affianca una tipologia di narrazione molto ricca di particolari , sia sui personaggi che nelle sequenze narrative
sicuramente la storia è centrata solo su sally la protagonista: dei due uomini così presenti lungo tutto il libro, il veterinario gideon che all'inizio colpisce per il suo altruismo disinteressato perde spessore e carattere lungo la storia, diventando quasi un altro personaggio (sposerà proprio chi diceva di non volere....), mentre il determinato finn kelly acquisterà spessore e forza ai nostri occhi di lettore poco alla volta, quasi in un gioco di contrappeso con l'altro personaggio
il padre di sally così presente a inizio capitoli poco alla volta diventa un personaggio quasi sfumato mentre sempre presente a più riprese con un vero rapporto di amicizia josie
insomma una storia narrativamente particolare, corposa (siamo oltre le 300 pagine), dove sicuramente la descrizione della londra vittoriana è realisticamente data ma anche eccessivamente piena di particolari
la traduzione ed editing impeccabili insieme alla cover sottolineano il lavoro attento della CE nonostante il libro impegnativo
quattro stelle oneste
non avevo mai letto nulla di quest'autrice ma la CE pubblica sempre letture di generi diversi per cui, uscito in offerta sul digitale, l'ho preso subito
chi si aspetta la kleypas o la quinn, qui resta deluso
l'autrice ha un genere tutto suo, dove alla precisione storica e narrativa si affianca una tipologia di narrazione molto ricca di particolari , sia sui personaggi che nelle sequenze narrative
sicuramente la storia è centrata solo su sally la protagonista: dei due uomini così presenti lungo tutto il libro, il veterinario gideon che all'inizio colpisce per il suo altruismo disinteressato perde spessore e carattere lungo la storia, diventando quasi un altro personaggio (sposerà proprio chi diceva di non volere....), mentre il determinato finn kelly acquisterà spessore e forza ai nostri occhi di lettore poco alla volta, quasi in un gioco di contrappeso con l'altro personaggio
il padre di sally così presente a inizio capitoli poco alla volta diventa un personaggio quasi sfumato mentre sempre presente a più riprese con un vero rapporto di amicizia josie
insomma una storia narrativamente particolare, corposa (siamo oltre le 300 pagine), dove sicuramente la descrizione della londra vittoriana è realisticamente data ma anche eccessivamente piena di particolari
la traduzione ed editing impeccabili insieme alla cover sottolineano il lavoro attento della CE nonostante il libro impegnativo
quattro stelle oneste
November 27, 2022
Dilly Court (2020) RAG-AND-BONE CHRISTMAS (AUDIOBOOK)
BorrowBox - HarperCollins Publishers Ltd
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 out of 5 stars
BorrowBox writes, "Paradise Row, London. December 1865. Snow is falling fast, and Sally Suggs is working tirelessly to bring in enough money to keep bread on the table. Her father, a skilled rag-and-bone man, has fallen ill, and now Sally has taken up his trade. But this is a man’s world and competition is fierce, and Sally’s rival, Finn Kelly, always seems to be one step ahead. Her family’s one valuable possession is their horse, Flower, yet with no one to protect them, London’s underbelly of black-market traders circle closer. Sally needs to find help in the most unexpected places if they are to survive....:"
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Very stressful on account of Flower the Horse and some particularly bad baddies in this one!
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#DillyCourt #RagAndBoneChristmas #Book #Books #Read #Reads #Reading #Review #Reviews #BookReview #BookReviews #GoodReads #Audiobook #Audiobooks #BorrowBox #Christmas #Xmas #MerryChristmas #HappyChristmas #MerryXmas #HappyXmas #HappyHolidays #CrimboReads
BorrowBox - HarperCollins Publishers Ltd
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 out of 5 stars
BorrowBox writes, "Paradise Row, London. December 1865. Snow is falling fast, and Sally Suggs is working tirelessly to bring in enough money to keep bread on the table. Her father, a skilled rag-and-bone man, has fallen ill, and now Sally has taken up his trade. But this is a man’s world and competition is fierce, and Sally’s rival, Finn Kelly, always seems to be one step ahead. Her family’s one valuable possession is their horse, Flower, yet with no one to protect them, London’s underbelly of black-market traders circle closer. Sally needs to find help in the most unexpected places if they are to survive....:"
=====
Very stressful on account of Flower the Horse and some particularly bad baddies in this one!
=====
#DillyCourt #RagAndBoneChristmas #Book #Books #Read #Reads #Reading #Review #Reviews #BookReview #BookReviews #GoodReads #Audiobook #Audiobooks #BorrowBox #Christmas #Xmas #MerryChristmas #HappyChristmas #MerryXmas #HappyXmas #HappyHolidays #CrimboReads
December 19, 2020
Sally Suggs works alongside her father Edward on his rag and bone round in Paradise row, London.
After realising he is finding the rounds harder and harder and suffering ill health Sally is determined to take over the round so he can stay at home and rest. They have a rival Rag and bone man Finn Kelly, who at first we think is a rogue but as the book unfolds it becomes clear this is not the case and he spends evenings keeping her dad company.
Her mum died years ago leaving just the two of them, the only thing she has left of any value is her mothers' prized thoroughbred horse (flower) which is worth a small fortune and whom Sally will never part with no matter how hard up they become, however on the horizon unscrupulous men have their eye on her.
Sally is a kind generous soul who takes in 3 young boys whose father is a bullying drunk.
Such a heartwarming story just right for Christmas, it had twists and turns and kept me wanting to read to find out what came next. I love Dilly Court books and this one didn't let me down.
So worth 5 stars and more.
After realising he is finding the rounds harder and harder and suffering ill health Sally is determined to take over the round so he can stay at home and rest. They have a rival Rag and bone man Finn Kelly, who at first we think is a rogue but as the book unfolds it becomes clear this is not the case and he spends evenings keeping her dad company.
Her mum died years ago leaving just the two of them, the only thing she has left of any value is her mothers' prized thoroughbred horse (flower) which is worth a small fortune and whom Sally will never part with no matter how hard up they become, however on the horizon unscrupulous men have their eye on her.
Sally is a kind generous soul who takes in 3 young boys whose father is a bullying drunk.
Such a heartwarming story just right for Christmas, it had twists and turns and kept me wanting to read to find out what came next. I love Dilly Court books and this one didn't let me down.
So worth 5 stars and more.
November 22, 2021
I have been looking for a Christmassy book to read in order to start off the Christmas season, and having not read any Dilly Court books before, but constantly being recommended her books, I thought this would be the perfect book to start with. Even more so as I have also bought this book as a gift for somebody who is a massive fan of Dilly Court.
Although I did enjoy this book and found myself wanting to constantly go back to it when I was busy doing other things, I don't find myself wanting to or eager to pick up more of her books. I can understand why her books are really popular with the age range that it is, with the writing style and it's contents, but sadly this is not for me. Although, I am glad to have finally read one of her books and glad it was a somewhat Christmassy read, as I do see people buying all her books and eagerly picking up her new ones daily, so that curiosity has been satisfied.
Although I did enjoy this book and found myself wanting to constantly go back to it when I was busy doing other things, I don't find myself wanting to or eager to pick up more of her books. I can understand why her books are really popular with the age range that it is, with the writing style and it's contents, but sadly this is not for me. Although, I am glad to have finally read one of her books and glad it was a somewhat Christmassy read, as I do see people buying all her books and eagerly picking up her new ones daily, so that curiosity has been satisfied.
November 21, 2020
What a beautiful story! Sally is a wonderful character, strong and sure and willing to do whatever she must to keep her family safe and fed. The setting was very vivid, and the portrayal of poverty in Sally's area was very emotional, and at times hard to read, especially considering the book is set at Christmas. But the way everyone stands together and helps each other was so heartwarming, especially when you consider everything that is going on in the world nowadays - it's inspiring to see others love and care for each other so fiercely.
This is exactly what you expect from a Dilly Court book - loveable characters, a bit of drama, a heartfelt romance, and a happy ending. What more could you want?
Disclaimer - I was fortunate enough to be provided with an advance reading copy of this book by NetGalley. This has not affected my review in any way, and all opinions are my own.
This is exactly what you expect from a Dilly Court book - loveable characters, a bit of drama, a heartfelt romance, and a happy ending. What more could you want?
Disclaimer - I was fortunate enough to be provided with an advance reading copy of this book by NetGalley. This has not affected my review in any way, and all opinions are my own.
December 30, 2021
Sally Suggs and her father have a rag and bone round but when her father becomes too ill to cope with it anymore then it's down to Sally to try to make ends meet.
Finn Kelly is her rival but over time she sees a different side to him.
Yet she can't help wondering if the help he shows in the wake of her father's illness isn't so he can get his hands on their prize purebred horse just it see,s like every other horseman in London.
But is Kelly on the level or does he have a much different goal in mind.
I couldn't put this down and read over three hundred pages today just to finish it.
One of my favourites I have read so far by Dilly, such a sweet, charming story that is perfect festive fare.
Absolutely brilliant.
Finn Kelly is her rival but over time she sees a different side to him.
Yet she can't help wondering if the help he shows in the wake of her father's illness isn't so he can get his hands on their prize purebred horse just it see,s like every other horseman in London.
But is Kelly on the level or does he have a much different goal in mind.
I couldn't put this down and read over three hundred pages today just to finish it.
One of my favourites I have read so far by Dilly, such a sweet, charming story that is perfect festive fare.
Absolutely brilliant.
December 17, 2022
3.75 estrellas
Tine el gran mérito de hacerme leer 500+ páginas en un solo día. Facilito de leer con un ritmo similar a lo que se conoce como recuentos de la vida diaria de la protagonista, la cual es muy trágica por cierto.
Me ha entretenido aunque no tiene un gran encanto, describe bien el ambiente histórico principalmente por las vivencias de los personajes pero para mi gusto se queda corto en romance le falta un poquito de cursilerías.
El último 30% de la historia fue arrastrada por la terquedad de la protagonista así que fue un poco aburrido esa parte del final.
--------SPOILER--->
-Si se deshace de ese caballo se le acaban los problemas.
-Amores cruzados resultan en parejas sin química.
Tine el gran mérito de hacerme leer 500+ páginas en un solo día. Facilito de leer con un ritmo similar a lo que se conoce como recuentos de la vida diaria de la protagonista, la cual es muy trágica por cierto.
Me ha entretenido aunque no tiene un gran encanto, describe bien el ambiente histórico principalmente por las vivencias de los personajes pero para mi gusto se queda corto en romance le falta un poquito de cursilerías.
El último 30% de la historia fue arrastrada por la terquedad de la protagonista así que fue un poco aburrido esa parte del final.
--------SPOILER--->
-Si se deshace de ese caballo se le acaban los problemas.
-Amores cruzados resultan en parejas sin química.
February 5, 2023
Very easy to read, Sally Suggs could fall in muck and come out clean, lucky girl thinks she might struggle then has very generous friends and acquaintances falling at her feet to help her. First part of the book is about her struggle to stay within the rag and bone trade, final two pages are about Christmas so the titles quite misleading. Should have been called The Expensive Horse struggles or How can I save my horse as the entire book centred around the Andalusian horse Flower which got on my nerves a bit as had she just sold the horse her struggles wouldn’t have been struggles but I suppose it did help the story and help her to settle down.
October 15, 2023
Dilly Court is an author who I love to read. This is a great story but i did feel as if it was lacking on some of the details that Dilly Court is so good at.
The story is a great concept with Sally trying to look after her father and also her friend and three boys that need a home, but the storyline with Feather did feel to become repetitive an also i was left with questions at the end of the book, such as did Sally pay back the money did Gideon pay back Sally? Did Vassey and Collins get charged with the robbery of the horse and quite a few more.
So in all a great story it just lacked some of the finer details towards the end.
The story is a great concept with Sally trying to look after her father and also her friend and three boys that need a home, but the storyline with Feather did feel to become repetitive an also i was left with questions at the end of the book, such as did Sally pay back the money did Gideon pay back Sally? Did Vassey and Collins get charged with the robbery of the horse and quite a few more.
So in all a great story it just lacked some of the finer details towards the end.
October 31, 2020
Another brilliant story
I've read over 30 of Dilly Court books now and enjoyed all of them she writes such wonderful stories about people who are mainly very poor like a lot were in the 1800 their lives must have been very hard there was a lot of sadness and heart breaking times for them,but they always clung to hope and stuck it out in such a heartwarming way with help from friends or even good people who they didn't really know but helped them anyway,i really enjoyed this book Dilly Court is brilliant and an amazing author.
I've read over 30 of Dilly Court books now and enjoyed all of them she writes such wonderful stories about people who are mainly very poor like a lot were in the 1800 their lives must have been very hard there was a lot of sadness and heart breaking times for them,but they always clung to hope and stuck it out in such a heartwarming way with help from friends or even good people who they didn't really know but helped them anyway,i really enjoyed this book Dilly Court is brilliant and an amazing author.
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