I've never read such an in depth study of what it was to be a lady's maid in the 1800s. Lily Wilson was a real person and really was employed as Elizabeth Barrett Brownings maid but one can hardly believe she was as 'real' as Forster's creation. Her thoughts, feelings and emotions are minutely examined. Her relationship with with Barrett Browning is the main focus of the book and it is this that creates the tension, the rollercoaster of emotions we experience through Lily.
There were times I loathed the Elizabeth Barrett Browning of this book, I felt she was warm towards Lily when she was useful to her, but if Lily was in trouble she became cold and unfeeling. I found myself caring deeply for Lily and behind her all the way.
An utterly absorbing and emotionally stirring read!
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