Bad Blood

Lorna Sage's Bad Blood is a poignant memoir detailing her eccentric upbringing and the lives of three generations of women, filled with humor and insight.

In Bad Blood, Lorna Sage recounts her childhood marked by gothic elements in a vicarage on the Welsh borders, leading into her tumultuous teenage years. This memoir captures a unique era, filled with humor and insight, as Sage reflects on the lives of three generations of women within her family. The narrative paints a vivid picture of a time long gone, exploring the complexities of her eccentric upbringing and the societal changes that shaped her experiences.

The memoir spans the 1940s, where Sage's life was influenced by her charismatic yet dissolute vicar grandfather, to the 1950s, which saw the invention of fish fingers revolutionizing domestic life for housewives like her mother. As she approaches the 1960s, Sage's own teenage pregnancy at 16 becomes a pivotal moment in her life, sparking outrage among those around her. Her grandmother's humorous blame of this event on the 'fiendish invention of sex' adds a layer of wit to the narrative, showcasing Sage's ability to find humor in challenging circumstances.

Bad Blood is not just a memoir; it is a rich tapestry of familial relationships, societal expectations, and personal growth. Sage’s writing is both engaging and intelligent, making her story resonate with readers as she navigates the complexities of womanhood across generations. This 20th Anniversary Edition includes an introduction by Frances Wilson, further enriching the reader's understanding of Sage's impactful work.