I have viewed several references that this novel is a historic romance. I do not believe that tag gives credit to the absorbing story that is based on the narrative of life experiences shared with Frances by her mother, Julia, of the time period 1914-1919. It is a poignant story of daily life in northern England during WWI, including urban poverty, attitudes to foreign nationals (Julia's German-Jewish father), and women's struggle for independence through suffragette meetings to the right to choose their preference of work and to be paid appropriately for that work. In some moments it is difficult to understand why women's struggles still continue for respect and equality. But to understand all the undercurrents of today, it is important to read the history and the “can do” attitude that never fails women and especially when we give each other comfort, support, and encouragement.

For more details, be sure to visit Frances Brody's website: http://frances-brody.com/sagas/breadstreet.html ( )