The novel begins with a single chapter outlining a key event that occurs three months from the beginning of the story proper. Sisterhood prevails as the librarians grow in numbers, strength and commitment to their role, each another and their values. As the events of the story unfold they learn to support each other and women across Kentucky. The judgemental Van Cleve's are inevitably going to disapprove.Īn unlikely friendship is formed between Alice and Margery. In addition, Margery is unwilling to conform to societal expectations or to be the expected submissive female and wife. This gives Bennett's father further fuel to disapprove of Alice as Margery, Alice learns, is of a disreputable family going back generations. There's no wonder then, that Alice jumps at the chance to join Margery O'Hare, a strong, independent woman, as a travelling librarian. Upon arrival in Baileyville, Alice is treated with caution and suspicion by the locals women her own age feel she has stolen Bennett from them as a potential suitor. The 'special book' kept hidden in the library had no effect in solving Bennett's problems! Life is quick to disappoint, and Alice seems as trapped as she'd ever been.īennett seems content to share their honeymoon cabin, with his ever-present vile father, and once at home becomes distant and aloof, unable or unchoosing of intimacy.

Set in the Appalachian Mountains, Alice Wright leaves behind the humdrum of small town life in England by marrying handsome Bennet Van Cleve and moving to Baileyville, Kentucky.

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