2017/19 Dorothy Whipple: Someone at a Distance (1951) ****

Dorothy Whipple was born and brought up in Blackburn and became a successful novelist between the Wars. She has been championed by Persephone books in this splendid edition published in 2014. This was her last adult novel and, arguably, her best. J B Priestley called her the Jane Austen of the Twentieth century and this is a great novel, showing subtle insight into the pitiless ruthlessness of the narcissist. And Louise, the French companion to old Mrs North, is a study in self regard and how the schemingly attractive person can destroy a happy and companionable marriage, as well as the love of a daughter. I am sure that Jane Austen would have enjoyed this and recognised the players. the wife Ellen who earns the contempt of the French she-devil because she wants to garden and cares not for her appearance is poignant. Sweetly so too are Louise's parents who have a happy and companionable time when she is not there. This novel shows great understanding of people and the delicate balance of their happinesses.