The lime walk - J.A. Noble

1815. Almost seventy years earlier, Ralph Challiss acquired the Uppham estate on the turn of a card. Caring for it has brought his son Thomas Challiss to an early death. His grandson George Challiss cant wait to be rid of it. Born at Uppham in 1795, a penniless ex-guardsman Thomas Roberts, formerly with Wellingtons Army of Alliance, is determined to gain possession of Uppham, where he hopes to create a dynasty with Mary Emma Kay.Set during the economic depression that followed the Battle of Waterloo, The Lime Walk gives a closely observed picture of how the Challisses of Uppham and their neighbours cope with living in turbulent times in an isolated Norfolk village which is threatened by angry, disillusioned bread-rioters.Regency life is clearly portrayed: a privileged few, an endless tide of returning servicemen, massive unemployment, food shortages, the desperation of the homeless and the violent anger of the dishonestly dispossessed. It is a period minus the comforts, technological advantages and modern welfare system available to the majority of Britons in the twenty-first century.Readers who enjoy a palatable approach to social history painted with a light touch, who relish an absorbing story and prefer their history sweetened with more than a dash of romance will love The Lime Walk.