Philippa Gregory's "The Little House" tells the story of Ruth Cleary, an orphaned young woman of modest means who has married the only son of English gentry. Focused on his family, her husband Patrick is thrilled when his parents offer to purchase "the little house" which is within walking distance of their own home. Apprehensive about leaving the city and living within Elizabeth Cleary's (Patrick's mother) sphere of influence, Ruth still agrees to the plan. It is only when she and Patrick move in with his parents during the renovation of "The Little House" that Ruth's troubles come to the forefront. The process by which she resolves her issues and solve her problems is a fascinating psychological journey.
Philippa Gregory has done it again - "The Little House" is a very good read, filled with interesting characters and nuanced situations. Unlike her historical novels, Gregory's more contemporary stories seem to focus on psychologically fragile women. Often, these women are orphaned or of "reduced circumstances." If you have read "Fallen Skies" or "A Respectable Trade," you will recognize this pattern. Like the women in these stories, Ruth Cleary eventually finds the strength to rectify her personal situation. The men these women marry have psychological issues of their own which precipitate events leading to various tragic conclusions. Always well-written, Philippa Gregory's novels draw the reader into the story; evoke emotional responses to both characters and situations; and result in the reader seeking her other books.
While Gregory does bring different situations and characters into each novel, there is still a sameness pervading the books. "The Little House" seems to be another variation on a familiar pattern. It is for this reason that I rated this novel a 4-star book.
Bonnie Bell
Sonja Randall
B Bradley