"Prepare to be swept back to pre-war London in this moving historical drama full of period detail and beautifully crafted characters."
Once again, Diney Costelo captures the essence of a period in history with pinpoint perfection and vibrancy. The hustle and bustle of city life, the drama unfolding below stairs and above it, and a captivating cast of characters – some loveable, some loathsome – instantly sweeps you up and transports you to another world. And how fabulous that world is! For poor schoolgirl Mabel Oakley, taking a job in service was never the plan; she had grand dreams of staying on at school and training to be a secretary. When an unfortunate accident forces her into the world of work earlier than she’d hoped, it’s only her resilience and steely determination that keep her dreams alive. That, and the unexpected support of the delightful Mr. Clarke. Unjudgmental, considerate, patient…he’s one of those unassuming characters that you warm to instantly and mourn long after the last page has turned. But the star of the show is undoubtedly Mabel herself. As far as strong-willed, savvy and straight-talking protagonists go, she’s up there with the best. Despite being victim to some unsavoury advances and a hefty slur on her reputation, Mabel’s fortitude never wavers. If anything, these incidents only serve to make her even more determined to prove that despite her class and gender, she can still achieve great things. And what better message to share with readers than that. The Girl Who Dared to Dream is a truly heartfelt story about family, love, aspiration and strength in the face of adversity. It’s another fine novel from a storytelling great, and one that Downton Abbey fans are going to fall instantly in love with.
| Primary Genre | Historical Fiction |
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A beautiful, feel good story! I loved Mabel, the main character, who dealt with everything that life threw at her with strength and belief. I really didn't want the story to end!
What a beautiful, feel good story. When I first started to read this book I thought that it was going to be slow with little storyline. How wrong I was! I really didn't want this book to finish. Mabel, the main character, is a role model to be looked up to.... Read Full Review
Diney Costeloe has created a world that draws us in and keeps us there to the very end and has whetted my appetite for more.
Diney Costeloe has twenty-three novels to her name but is a new author to me. The Girl who Dared to Dream is right up my street. A working-class girl has little choice but to follow the life mapped out for her by the needs of her family. The idea that a girl is only looking for a job to tide her over until she snares a young man who might have some prospects, doesn’t suit young Mabel Oakley. But how can she keep her dreams alive when her plans don't fit with family expectations? Who will fight her corner but herself when life throws a few spanners in the works? Is Mabel strong enough to battle through when her journey is not what she expects - and she must keep an open mind if she dares to think where her future will take her.... Read Full Review
