A Maids Ruin, Lynne Francis
A Maids Ruin, Lynne Francis
List: $24.99 | Sale: $17.50
Club: $12.49

A Maid's Ruin
a gripping saga of love and betrayal

Author: Lynne Francis

Narrator: Annie Aldington

Unabridged: 9 hr 39 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Published: 03/05/2020


Synopsis

A brand new saga of love and betrayal in late 18th century Kent and London from saga author Lynne Francis, perfect for fans of Dilly Court and Rosie Goodwin.

Margate, 1786. Dairymaid Molly Goodchild dreams of a better life. Up at the crack of dawn to milk her uncle's cows, the one comfort of her day is her friendship with apprentice gardener, Charlie.

When dashing naval officer, Nicholas, arrives in town, Molly's head is turned by his flattering attentions and she casually spurns Charlie - believing this is her chance to escape a life of drudgery. Yet when Molly needs Nicholas most, he lets her down.

With her hopes in tatters, Molly is forced to flee Margate for London, where she finds herself struggling to survive.

What will she risk in her search for a better life? And will she ever find the love she deserves?

About Lynne Francis

Lynne Francis grew up in Yorkshire but studied, lived and worked in London for many years. She draws inspiration for her novels from a fascination with family history, landscapes and the countryside.Her first saga series, the Mill Valley Girls, was set in west Yorkshire but a move to east Kent, and the discovery of previously unknown family links to the area, gave her the idea for a Georgian-era trilogy. Lynne's exploration of her new surroundings provided the historical background for the novels, as well as allowing her to indulge another key interest: checking out the local teashops and judging the cake.When she's not at her desk, writing, Lynne can be found in the garden, walking through the countryside or beside the sea.


Reviews

Goodreads review by Jessica on April 16, 2020

This book told the story of Molly and her loves and betrayals. Set in Kent and London the author captures the era beautifully with wonderful descriptions of Margate, Chatham and parts of London, and with fabulous tales of life in the 18th century and the challenges it presented. It's a page turner a......more

Goodreads review by Sandra on September 03, 2020

I really enjoyed this book, reading about my local area which is what initially drew me to the book. I was very much invested in Molly's character and particularly enjoyed her ventures in London. I found the writing style reminiscent of Catherine Cookson and am so pleased to have found another excel......more

Goodreads review by Marlene on January 25, 2025

Wonderfully atmospheric for those of us who live on the coast near Margate. Many of us will recognise the desire to leave the familiar behind in search of a more exciting life in London. Set in the late 1700s, this exquisitely researched book will take you back to your youth to relive those feelings......more

Goodreads review by Jules on June 26, 2020

I really enjoyed this story, loved the detailed descriptions of London and Margate in the 18th century. Felt like I was there alongside Molly and her dramas. It was a real page turner, can't wait to see what happens next!......more

Goodreads review by Sindonia Tyrell on February 25, 2021

A thoroughly enjoyable read. Thoroughly enjoyed reading this. From Molly's early life, through her downfall, her struggles and eventual happy ending I was completely swept along. A super story and I can't wait for the next instalment.......more


Quotes

An impressively researched Cinderella tale of a sweetly ambitious country girl, deserving of a better life than being her aunt's drudge. Feisty, but too innocent with men, she falls unwisely in love and is forced to find a new life and place to call home. Themes of art and horticulture perfectly link the locations of Kent and London and the City tavern scenes with their lusty characters, are a particular delight. I loved this five star book

An engaging, thoroughly researched tale of youthful naivety and courage in the face of adversity, full of rich detail and imagination. Highly recommended!