The Journal Of Dora Damage

Description

This work is set in Lambeth, London, in the year 1859. By the time Dora Damage discovers that there is something wrong with her husband, Peter, it is too late. His arthritic hands are crippled, putting his book-binding business into huge debt and his family in danger of entering the poorhouse. Summoning her courage, Dora proves that she is more than just a housewife and mother. Taking to the streets, she resolves to rescue her family at any price - and finds herself illegally binding expensive volumes of pornography commissioned by aristocrats.Then, when a mysterious fugitive slave arrives at her door, Dora realises she's entangled in a web of sex, money, deceit and the law. Now the very family she fought so hard for is under threat from a host of new, more dangerous foes. Belinda Starling's debut novel is a startling vision of Victorian London, juxtaposing its filth and poverty with its affluence. In "Dora Damage" we meet a daring young heroine, struggling in a very modern way against the constraints of the day, and whose resourcefulness and bravery have us rooting for her all the way.

Promotion info

For fans of Fingersmith, Girl with a Pearl Earring and The Alchemist's DaughterRights sold in Italy, Brazil, Holland and Spain

Reviews

'The vivid, stylish, witty story of a woman who refuses to accept her powerlessness ... Starling illuminates the period, diving beneath the surface of things with vertiginous introspection and consummate poise' Susanna Moore, author of The Big Girls and In the Cut 'A wonderfully vivid tale of intrigue, corruption and deceit ... Starling has left behind a heroine who is a testament to her talent and imagination' ***** Alex Clark, Red Magazine 'An elegant epitaph to a lost talent ... a triumph ... Starling created a witty and sympathetic heroine whose modern pluck enhances her charm' Francesca Segal, Observer 'A scrupulously researched, racy tale ... Starling skilfully conjures up a dank, deviant London ... Her bustling, energetic book is a worthy addition to the ranks of historical fiction' Catherine Taylor, Guardian

Author description

Belinda Starling lived in Wivenhoe, Essex with her husband and children and died in August 2006.