A MEMORY OF VIOLETS A Novel of London's Flower Sellers

This intriguing historical novel brings to life the culture of the flower and watercress girls of Victorian England. Narrated expertly by Nicola Barber, the novel weaves the stories of Irish sisters Florrie and Rosie in 1876 and that of a young English woman, Tilly, in 1912. As house mother at Violet House, Tilly discovers a diary written by Florrie that propels her to find out what happened to Rosie after the diary ends. Barber aids the listener in identifying the many characters with changes in accent, tempo, and tone. Her comfortable pacing draws listeners in as she seamlessly blends history and fiction while shining a light on the harsh existence of these outcast children of Victorian England who were rescued and trained for jobs that provided a safe, stable existence. N.E.M. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2015]