Book Review: Love and Other Consolation Prizes

Love and Other Consolation Prizes

A Novel



by Jamie Ford

Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine

Ballantine Books



Historical Fiction

Pub Date 12 Sep 2017

I am reviewing Love and Other Consolation Prizes Through Ballantine Books and Netgalley:

Ernest Young is a twelve year old charity student at a boarding school, and the chance to go to the World’s fair is a gift to him. But when he gets there amongst the exotic exhibits, fireworks, and Ferris Wheels, he is shocked to learn he is one of the Prizes. He will be raffled off, a healthy boy to a good home.

A flamboyant madam of a high class brother, famous for educating girls wins the ticket. It is there that Ernest becomes the new houseboy and befriends Maisie, The Madam’s precious daughter as well as a scullery maid named Fahn. Their friendship and affection give Ernest the first real family he has ever had. Against all odds, this new sporting life gives him the sense of home he has always longed for.

But the Grand Dame succumbs to the occupational hazard and the world of finery begins to crumble. The three must grasp with hope, ambition, as well as first love.

Fifty years after the World’s Fair, in the Shadow Of Seattle’s Second World Fair, Ernest struggles to help his ailing wife reconcile who she once was, with who she wanted to be. All the while hiding the family secrets from their grown daughters.

I give Love and Other Consolation Prizes five out of five stars!

Happy Reading!