Merthyr Tydfil South Wales 1984.
this is the story of Betsan Morgan and her family, left to look after her father David and twins Alys and Aled after their mothers death, it's not long till their father finds a replacement, Elinor Evans the wicked step mother, Betsan always wonders what happened to her aunt Maggie and decides to go to search for her and find out why she is not in contact anymore, finding secrets she has a hard struggle ahead of her.
This book the winter waif was such a relaxing easy read, that will touch your heart, I enjoyed every single chapter, happy and heart breaking moments, that makes it such an inspirational read.

The Winter Waif by Lynette Rees.
I’m not ashamed to say there are a couple of instances in this book that made tears come to my eyes, but it is an inspiring novel showing what a hard scrabble life was like in 1884.

I’m in love with heartbreakingly, beautifully written book about the families that lived in Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales in 1884.
I’m not ashamed to say there are a couple of instances in this book that made tears come to my eyes, but it is an inspiring novel showing what a hard scrabble life was like in the 1884.
Where some families live hard lives working in the workhouses and some families just get by day to day at menial jobs.
But there are a few young children that grow up able to grasp at the rare opportunities available, trying to make their families lives better. This book honors The Winter Waif.

#TheWinterWaif
#LynetteRees
#BoldwoodBooks

After the death of her motherGwen Betsan Morgan struggles as she was close to her. Then she is faced with a new problem, namely Elinor Evans who her father suddenly brings home. Betsan is thankful for neighbour Bronwen Jenkins who helps out with the youngsters twins Aled & Alys.
When things get too much for Betsan she goes up to the attic to sit with her mother's portrait.
It would seem that David Morgan will do anything for Elinor, but does she push her luck when she sells Gwen’s sewing machine. Betsan certainly thinks so and goes to find where her Aunt Maggie lives in a poorer part of town to see if she can help.
I liked the was Elinor’s character was described. My favourite character was Jimmy.
I did wonder if there would be a follow up!

A simple sweet story with just enough drama and tragedy to keep the story moving. In a lot of ways, the House of Arden reminds me of the Mr. Selfridge series.