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The Price of Coal
It is 1926 and Caroline is starting to enjoy a varied and interesting social life. Her allowance is secure for now, but can she evade the advances of her suitors and maintain her independence?
After a life-changing event, Caroline and her father George move into a new apartment in Cheltenham and quickly meet the other residents. The General Strike forces Caroline to consider her situation in a different light, and to understand that actions have consequences. Her address is not the only change Caroline must come to terms with over the next few months as she watches her friends marry and begin to settle down. To clear her head, Caroline travels to an artists’ retreat in Cornwall. Yet this only adds to the confusion she feels about her own future.
With her the anniversary of her brother’s death once again looming, a chance conversation may provide the solution to Caroline’s need to take the next step on her journey to independence.
After a life-changing event, Caroline and her father George move into a new apartment in Cheltenham and quickly meet the other residents. The General Strike forces Caroline to consider her situation in a different light, and to understand that actions have consequences. Her address is not the only change Caroline must come to terms with over the next few months as she watches her friends marry and begin to settle down. To clear her head, Caroline travels to an artists’ retreat in Cornwall. Yet this only adds to the confusion she feels about her own future.
With her the anniversary of her brother’s death once again looming, a chance conversation may provide the solution to Caroline’s need to take the next step on her journey to independence.
330 pages, Paperback
Published September 13, 2022
About the author
Mary Lay
12 books9 followersBorn in 1970 in the English county of Berkshire, Mary now finds herself in the Cotswolds via Devon and Cornwall. She enjoys gardening, art and listening to classical music.
Mary’s favourite colour is green and her favourite city is Copenhagan.
Mary’s favourite colour is green and her favourite city is Copenhagan.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
November 12, 2022
I finished Book One recently so I was quite excited to see how Caroline got on.
This story is very much a coming of age story, of Caroline but also the people she comes into contact with, and how they choose to grow.
And oh they grow. This book continues nicely from no. 1 as it returns where the first left off.
Caroline has a few suitors, she develops her art skills, she does some more travelling.
The characters in this are just breathtaking. The author has woven historical fact and customs seamlessly with real life drama and emotion. I'm utterly captivated by it.
I did feel the ending was a little abrupt but I was quite happy to have a few more pages.
Wonderful wonderful story. Book 3 can arrive any time soon now please.
This story is very much a coming of age story, of Caroline but also the people she comes into contact with, and how they choose to grow.
And oh they grow. This book continues nicely from no. 1 as it returns where the first left off.
Caroline has a few suitors, she develops her art skills, she does some more travelling.
The characters in this are just breathtaking. The author has woven historical fact and customs seamlessly with real life drama and emotion. I'm utterly captivated by it.
I did feel the ending was a little abrupt but I was quite happy to have a few more pages.
Wonderful wonderful story. Book 3 can arrive any time soon now please.
September 25, 2022
I loved following Caroline through 1926 as she continues to explore herself and the world. The author brings to life the era with her description. Caroline is such a lovely character, and I just wanted to stay in her world with her. Her kind-nature towards her friends and her fascination for the world is a joy to read. I hope there'll be a book 3 as I'd love to know what Caroline does next!
April 17, 2023
Another great story by Mary Lay. This author creates a world and characters that are totally believable. I loved spending time with Caroline and her friends. The gentle story telling is soothing, and compelling despite, or maybe because of, the lack of drama.
I did find the omnipresent narration a bit distracting at times because I am used to reading close person 3rd or 1st person narratives, but it adds to the 'old world' charm.
I was sorry to say goodbye to Caroline but reassured that I can read the next in the series before too long!
I did find the omnipresent narration a bit distracting at times because I am used to reading close person 3rd or 1st person narratives, but it adds to the 'old world' charm.
I was sorry to say goodbye to Caroline but reassured that I can read the next in the series before too long!
March 7, 2023
Fantastic second book in the series
What a delight it was to step back into Caroline’s world. The characters have such depth that you really want to invest in them and see how they develop.
I love the South West and steam trains and the books are so atmospheric by their lovely descriptions.
I am thrilled to see how Caroline is developing as a free spirit, which is something I really connect with.
I already have book 3 so will happily dive in again soon.
What a delight it was to step back into Caroline’s world. The characters have such depth that you really want to invest in them and see how they develop.
I love the South West and steam trains and the books are so atmospheric by their lovely descriptions.
I am thrilled to see how Caroline is developing as a free spirit, which is something I really connect with.
I already have book 3 so will happily dive in again soon.
April 30, 2023
Another excellent book from this author, following Caroline's journey of discovery. Caroline might have a number of suitors but her independent streak is refreshing as she explores the world and tries to determine her place in it. Cannot wait to find out what happens next. I would highly recommend this series.
November 16, 2022
Another instalment in the adventures of Caroline. A gentle read, but still touching on some of the difficult issues women faced in the years between the wars. Very enjoyable. I look forward to the next episode.
May 29, 2024
A read too light for me.
December 2, 2022
A great 2nd book in the series. Loved it and can’t wait for the next one.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews