It is June 1957 and for Jean Swinney, features editor, columnist, and general dogsbody at a provincial newspaper, it seems a day like any other. However, a letter from a reader will lead to far reaching consequences.
The letter refers to a mention in the paper of a scientific study of parthenogenesis (the ability of females to reproduce without the involvement of a male) in some lower order animals. The correspondent, Gretchen Tilbury, claims it happened to her some ten years ago. Jean is despatched to investigate the potential ‘virgin birth’ story.
Naturally and professionally sceptical, Jean nevertheless is drawn to Gretchen and her family: daughter Margaret who is the spit of her mother; and husband Howard, an older man who met and took on the single mother soon after the birth. The family are delightful and accommodate Jean’s attention, which gives her a welcome respite from her spinsterish home life restricted by the needs of her infirm and determinedly dependent mother.
The narrative unfolds unhurriedly as Jean investigates the claim, becomes increasingly embraced by the Tilburys, and struggles with her mother’s demands. Though easy paced, it is always engrossing due to the punchy writing style (from Jean’s point of view throughout) and authentic period detail.
Slowly, cracks appear in the smooth running, ordinary lives of Jean’s and the Tilburys. Things happen, pasts emerge, characters fill out, and tension grows to a fine climax.
This is an excellent
novel, refreshingly free from graphic crime and violence, yet full of jeopardy,
mystery, moral dilemma, and pitch perfect prose. A delight.
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