The Fortunes of the Farrells   By: George de Horne Vaizey (1857-1917)

The Fortunes of the Farrells by George de Horne Vaizey is a captivating tale set in the late 19th century, following the lives of the Farrell family. Although it may not be widely known, this novel deserves recognition for its ability to transport readers into a bygone era filled with charm and drama.

The story introduces us to the Farrells, a middle-class family residing in a quaint English village. With each member's distinct personality and distinctive struggles, the author skillfully crafts a remarkable portrait of the family dynamics. From the opinionated matriarch, Mrs. Farrell, to the ambitious daughters, Violet and Daisy, and the good-natured sons, the characters come to life and draw us into their world of dreams, aspirations, and challenges.

What makes this novel particularly engrossing is the way Vaizey intertwines the Farrell family's journey with the social and historical context of the time. The ever-changing landscape of the industrial revolution poses a threat to the Farrells' traditional way of life, forcing them to adapt and make difficult decisions. This backdrop adds depth to the narrative and immerses readers in a detailed and authentic portrayal of the era.

Vaizey's writing style is accessible and engaging, making it easy to become invested in the characters and their quests for happiness and success. Each chapter seamlessly moves the story forward, revealing new layers of complexity while maintaining a sense of anticipation. Whether it is exploring the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated society or the clash between tradition and progress, the author deftly weaves these themes into the fabric of the story.

Furthermore, the author successfully highlights the significance of strong family bonds throughout the novel. Despite their individual differences and ambitions, the Farrells' unwavering support for one another in times of crisis serves as a powerful testament to the strength of familial ties. This theme resonates deeply and reminds us all of the importance of unity and solidarity, even in the face of adversity.

If there is one aspect that could be improved upon, it would be occasionally slow pacing. Some portions of the narrative may feel drawn out, and the story takes time to build momentum. However, this minor flaw does not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

In conclusion, The Fortunes of the Farrells is a compelling historical novel that transports readers to a vividly depicted world filled with love, ambition, and the struggle for self-fulfillment. Vaizey's rich character development and skillful blend of historical and personal narratives make this book a delightful read for anyone seeking an immersive journey into 19th century England.

First Page:

The house part duly convenes, and they don't find him a very agreeable host, but for the most part they persevere. He has made a preliminary will "in case of accident". He is trying to keep this will secret, and of course the young people are all agog to know what is in it. One day he accidentally leaves his desk open, and realises that someone has been at his desk, and has read the will. He calls all the young people to his bed, and asks them point blank who it was. Of course he gets various kinds of answer, from the offended, to the frightened and cowed. But by chance he finds out exactly who had peeked into his desk and read the will. We won't spoil the story for you, but would say this: that it is as good a Horne Vaizey story as any, even the earlier Pixie books... Continue reading book >>