This saga of war and family from a New York Times-bestselling author is “sheer, wonderful storytelling” (Chicago Tribune). Spanning six decades, these three novels follow a man and his family as they struggle to adapt to life in a new world. From the death of Queen Victoria through the swinging sixties, this acclaimed saga is an unforgettable story of a farming family and a vanishing way of … family and a vanishing way of life.
Long Summer Day: Lt. Paul Craddock returns to England after the Boer War to resume civilian life. His father has died, leaving Craddock heir to a scrap-metal business. But instead of continuing the family business, he purchases an auctioned-off thirteen-hundred-acre estate, Shallowford, where he will be changed by his love for two women: fiercely independent Grace Lovell and lovely, demure Claire Derwent.
Post of Honour: Through hard work and love of the land, Craddock has transformed his sprawling estate and enjoys a peaceful country life with his wife and three children. But war has begun its inevitable march across England, and this remote corner of Devon cannot escape its destruction. As the Great War ends and another threatens to erupt, Craddock’s faith and the strength he derives from his family must sustain him and his village through trying, tumultuous times.
The Green Gauntlet: Though Craddock’s village has endured despite the sorrows of war, he has new perils to face. Emerging property laws threaten his livelihood, dividing his family over the future of his beloved Shallowford. For his sons and daughter, the fifties and sixties will be a time of discovery and change that will resonate in the lives of their own children.
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This three book series was the most satisfying read I have had in years. I’m looking forward to reading another Delderfield novel in the near future. I was worried the ending might disappoint, but it was wonderful and perfect. I recommend this series with all my heart.
Great saga series spanning many years. Set in Devon and showing a love of the countryside. Great read.
Delderfield is unbeatable for story-telling and unique characters. I understand the time from the Boer War to the 1950’s in England and the people who lived it.
I have enjoyed reading R.F. Delderfield for many years. This collection has characters that become like real friends. You root for them, mourn with them, and celebrate with them. Beautifully written; I can almost imagine a countryside I’ve never seen.
R F Delderfield is one of the great British storytellers. He creates unforgettable characters in whose lives the reader becomes completely involved. Like Downton Abbey, the story revolves around the inhabitants of a great country house, but in this book we learn more about the farmers, gamekeepers (and the occasional poacher!) whose daily activities create such a fascinating community.
A very well written good view of a Squire dealing with personal, agricultural and World War issues in England from 1900 to 1960.
Beautifully written- wonderful glimpse into pre WWI Englandpp
Wonderful historical reading.
I read this series years ago. Great story line, lovely characters and great descriptions of the setting.
I love everything this author writes.
I learned a great deal about English history, English rural life, WWI, WW2. This series is a page-turner.
One of my favorite series.The characters are so believable. I became enchanted by Ikey Palfrey and his history.Would love to see BBC do a remake of this.
Loved the English pre-WWI history and transition of society to post-war. Great characters.
I like R H Delderfield as a rule as an author. He writes beautifully and always incorporates historical happenings during the era he is writing about. Always fascinating to read and marvelous memborable charachters!
I am enjoying this series. I have finished the first two and have thoroughly enjoyed them. The characters are realistic and enjoyable to know. Looking forward to the third in the series.
Best book series I have read that covers a long period of recent English history – three wars . Told from the view point of a very appealing family.
Series about a family and community during the years of WWI and WWII. And all the changes they undergo during that time in Great Britain. Interesting characters, good writing.
I love All his books and I stayed up late for a week to devour this trilogy. His characters are always so real. Highly recommend.
I bought the first book probably 40 years ago and then the rest of the series. Edges toward historical fiction as it involves both world wars. I’ve read the series several times.
Love Delderfield’s books….His description of WW2 experiences brings it close to home.