Literature Love // The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets

The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets

The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets by Eva Rice was on our reading list this week - set in the 1950s, between London and rural England. The story centres on Penelope, and how her life is transformed by the chance encounter with the enigmatic Charlotte - the pair share an instant bond as they find themselves sharing a taxi to visit Charlotte's eccentric Aunt Clare just minutes after meeting for the first time.

The book follows the girls as they swoon after teddy boys (certainly the wrong sorts of boys for nice young girls like Charlotte and Penelope according to Aunt Clare...), get giddy over Johnny Ray and are knocked off of their feet by smouldering Americans. A whole host of eccentric characters are woven into the charming tapestry of the story, Charlotte's cousin Harry, an introspective magician, Penelope's younger brother Inigo, rebellious and obsessed with the new sounds of America - especially when his Uncle brings over a very early record by a 'funny hillbilly cat' named Elvis and Penelope's mother who is endearingly melodramatic.

Set against the backdrop of a crumbling stately home and glamorous parties in London - this dreamy book is perfect for taking you back in time to the romance and splendour of the 50s.

Excuse us while we loose ourselves in daydreams of kissing Elvis and Teddy boys... *sigh*

Much love.

R&L xx