Wives and Daughters

In a bright June morning, the Gibson household awakens to the gentle stirrings of young Molly, a curious and imaginative girl whose world is framed by the modest comforts of a country town. As she watches the bustle of her family and the imposing presence of her mother’s strict companion, Betty, Molly’s days are filled with simple pleasures—bonnet‑making, garden walks, and the anticipation of the upcoming town gala. The novel captures the rhythm of everyday life, weaving together the hopes, anxieties, and subtle rivalries that shape the relationships among the Gibson family, their neighbours, and the genteel visitors who drift in and out of their world.

Through Molly’s eyes we glimpse the tender beginnings of friendships and the first flutter of affection that mark the transition from childhood to adolescence. The story balances warmth with the occasional sting of social expectation, offering a vivid portrait of mid‑Victorian England where love, duty, and personal growth intertwine. Listeners will find themselves drawn into a richly detailed community, rooting for Molly as she navigates the joys and challenges of her formative years.