The county of South Riding in Yorkshire is the beautifully rendered setting of a novel set in the mid 1930s—and written at that time—featuring a cast of memorable characters. At the center are two strong females, Sarah Burton and Mrs. Beddows. The men are no less vivid, but maybe more flawed. It’s a book about hard times, change, expectations and passion—what else does a good book need! I wanted to read this book after this spring’s Masterpiece Classic ’South Riding’ production. Some reviewers familiar with the book said the ending was rushed and many characters had back stories you just didn’t get from the miniseries. All that is true, but not as much as I expected. It is worth the read, if only to re-visit a hauntingly beautiful place and these characters.

posted Jun 14, 2011 at 4:06PM

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