I read this book many years ago but the memory of it stays with me - I was 'in' the story from start to finish and felt almost a loss when I finished reading it. I was with Ruth from her beginnings in the wilds of Yorkshire, on her eventful journey to the USA and after that shared her many enterprises, her disappointments and her passions. This is a book of great atmosphere. I have read her subsequent books each year all of which were beautifully written and am looking forward to reading her latest book 'Midsummer Meeting' which I have ready at my bedside table. I am sure I shall not be disappointed. May she continue to entertain us for many years to come.