Mrs Boots

By Deborah Carr

What it’s about?

From Goodreads:

Jersey, 1885

On the beautiful island of Jersey, Florence Rowe lives a quiet life working in her father’s bookshop. Life for the Rowe family is good, but Florence can’t help yearning for more…

When Jesse Boot, the successful owner of Boots the chemist, arrives on the island, Florence is immediately captivated by his tales of life in a busy, bustling city on the mainland. For the first time ever, Florence imagines a life away from the constraints of Jersey society, of being someone more than just a shopgirl.

Until her parents reveal the shocking news they will refuse any marriage proposal from Mr Boot. Can Florence find a way to be with the man she loves and make a new life for herself?

What I think?

My response to Mrs Boots is divided – I loved the characters but was so frustrated because I want to know what happens next!

Not much happens plot wise in this book – it’s all about character. Florence Rowe is torn between being modern and independent and traditional and respecting her parents.

Her relationship with Jesse Boot unfolds gently. Their affinity is obvious yet their relationship follows the acceptable patterns of Victorian courtship. Despite being both being adults and the fact that the will be financially secure, Jesse and Florenxe obey her parents wishes.

I loved the insights into Victorian shop life and the kindness that Florence shows to some of her customers.

Mr and Mrs Rowe are interesting characters. Mrs Rowe refuses to accept Florence will be happy with Jesse Boot. She is firmly against the marriage and even put quite shocking conditions in the wedding itself. I’m interested to see if her opinion change into the future.

Florence is a so real in this book, I’m really looking forward to seeing how she develops in the second book. Her married life in Nottingham is going to be a huge contrast to family life in Jersey and it Jersey fascinating to see how she adapts.

Thank you Netgalley for this digital copy in return for an honest review.

You can order Mrs Boots from:

Waterstones: click here

Amazon.co.uk: click here