- The Winds of Heaven by Monica Dickens. Originally published in 1955. Reprinted by Persephone Books, 2010.
Like Mariana, this is another novel by Dickens's great-grandaughter that was recently reissued by Persephone. It tells the story of the recently widowed Louise, who is shuttled back and forth between three self-centered adult daughters. All three of them care just enough about her to feel vaguely guilty about not really wanting her.
But Louise has a spirit of her own, and looks for every chance to break free from the unsettled life that she hates. She makes friends where she can, finding a kindred soul in a kindly bed salesman who writes pulp fiction on the side, though her daughters look down on him as "common." She nurtures a neglected granddaughter, and cares for anyone who will accept her help and friendship. And eventually she makes a surprising bid for independence.
With The Winds of Heaven, Monica Dickens wrote another novel that was rich in characterization and moral insight, and echoed her great-grandfather's concern for the helpless and downtrodden.
(Review copy provided by Persephone Books.)
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