Family History

The sequel to The Edwardians - a novel of high society in a changing world.

In Family History, we meet Evelyn, a thirty-nine-year-old widow who embodies grace and charm. Living a seemingly perfect life, she becomes entangled in a passionate romance with Miles, a man fifteen years her junior. However, beneath the surface of their relationship lies a complexity that challenges their connection. Evelyn is deeply conventional and struggles with jealousy, especially as she grapples with Miles's more relaxed attitude toward life and work. His commitment to his job often leaves her feeling neglected, revealing the tensions that arise from their differing perspectives.

As the story unfolds, Family History explores the intricacies of love, desire, and societal expectations in the early 1930s. Vita Sackville-West skillfully navigates themes of work and personal fulfillment, illustrating how these elements affect both Evelyn and Miles. Their strong personalities clash, leading to moments of passion but also heartache, as they come to realize that love alone may not be sufficient to bridge their differences.

Through Evelyn's journey, we witness the evolving landscape of relationships in a changing world. The sequel to The Edwardians, this novel delves into high society's complexities, challenging the norms of the time while highlighting the universal quest for connection and understanding. Ultimately, Family History serves as a poignant reflection on the nature of love and the sacrifices it often demands.