Showing results by narrator "Carolyn Oldershaw" in All Categories

The Song Empire has been invaded by its warlike Jurchen neighbours from the north. Half its territory and its historic capital lie in enemy hands; the peasants toil under the burden of the annual tribute demanded by the victors. Meanwhile, on the Mongolian steppe, a disparate nation of great warriors is about to be united by a warlord whose name will endure for eternity: Genghis Khan. Guo Jing, son of a murdered Song patriot, grew up with Genghis Khan's army.

It's 1862. In beautiful Hunters Hall, Harriet Edgerton is unable to produce the heir her husband, Brook, craves. She finds sympathy and friendship from Felicity Goodhall, an attractive young widow who lives nearby. Whilst Brook is far away in Jamaica on business, Harriet’s desire for a child leads to a life-changing decision when she is offered a two-week-old baby boy, unwanted by his mother. She passes him off as her own. When her secret is revealed, her marriage is in danger of falling apart.

For over 10 years, Sue Townsend has written a monthly column for Sainsbury’s Magazine, which covers everything from hosepipe bans and Spanish restaurants to writer’s block and the posh middle-aged woman she once met who'd never heard of Winnie the Pooh. Collected now for the first time, these columns from one of Britain’s most popular and acclaimed writers are funny, perceptive, and touching.