From Publishers Weekly Veteran storyteller Cookson (The Bannaman Legacy, The Moth once again captures the stratified society of Northumberland in the late 19th century. When the local pastor's daughter, tomboyish Nancy Ann Howard, attracts the master of the manor, Dennison Harpcore, their unlikely, cross-class marriage sets off a chain of events that irrevocably changes the lives and social position of many in the community. Harpcore, notorious for wenching and gambling, is for a time transformed by the virginal object of his desire. Nancy Ann, for her part, once the novelty of wealth loses its charm, matures through personal adversity, loss of innocence and Harpcore's suicide. Nancy Ann's fate is tied to those of three men, the last of whom will bring her what she finally recognizes as happiness. The Cookson way with a long, intricately woven narrative compensates for sketchiness of characterization, particularly of the male characters. As usual, readers will be absorbed by her evocation of the social landscape of late 19th century England. Doubleday Book Club main selection; Literary Guild alternate. Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title. From Library Journal Roaming the countryside with her dog and fighting with the McLoughlin boys is not proper behavior for a Victorian country parson's daughter. Though Nancy Ann's free and passionate spirit is a frequent source of distress to her parents, it attracts Dennison Harpcore, wealthy bon vivant master of Rossburn House; quiet and kindly Graham, lord of the manor; and intense, brilliant David, bastard nephew to Dennison. It is Harpcore who courts and marries her despite the difference in age and station. Again her independence brings conflict, loyal friends, and bitter enemies as she battles to win a place in society and a position in her own household. Hasty final chapters do not fulfill the promise of the more thoroughly developed beginning ones, but this is still a book and a heroine that will charm many. Literary Guild alternate; Doubleday Book Club main selection. Cynthia Johnson Whealler, Cary Memorial Lib., Lexington, Mass.Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
