This is an auction for THE BALLAD AND THE SOURCE, by Rosamond Lehmann.

Amazon.com reviews:

"FIVE STARS! This is a masterly piece of writing. The Ballad and the Source is the fourth of Rosamond Lehmann's novels I have read, and I am enormously impressed with it. The story of Sibyl Jardine is told mainly in three long conversations, between Rebecca - who is ten at the start of the novel, and Tilly a sewing maid, Sibyl herself and later Maisie, Sibyl's grand-daughter. Sibyl, both saint and sinner is a fascinating figure. An unhappy marriage leads her to leave her home, and become cut off from her child. The consequences of this are far reaching and tragic. The young Rebecca is drawn to Mrs Jardine, and determined to find out the story of her life. This story takes some years to unfold fully, and as it does Rebecca's perceptions of Mrs Jardine and her story are challenged. The writing is powerful and hugely accomplished. This is in some ways a complex novel, but Rosamond Lehmann's brilliant writing brings it all together, the story, so much of which is told through dialogue never gets lost among the speech. I found this an enthralling novel, beautifully written."

"FIVE STARS!! I found this book to be very unusual. The writing was beautiful - the evocation of the house through the blue door in the wall was magical. The characterization was well done and the story enthralling. I can't wait to put this to my book group, as I really want to discuss aspects of the book with them."

More very favourable reviews on Amazon.com.

Paperback 2006.

318 pages.

Very good condition.

The cost of shipping is $6.95.

There is of course no charge for shipping if you collect this book from my shop in Palmerston North following the auction.

Payment within seven days, please.