Mary Broome is a fascinating exploration of class and societal norms in Edwardian England. The story follows the titular character as she navigates the challenges of being a lower-class woman in a wealthy household. The relationships between Mary, her employers, and her family are complex and fraught with tension, making for a compelling read.

Allan Monkhouse's writing is sharp and incisive, delving into the hypocrisy and double standards that exist within the rigid class structures of the time. As Mary begins to assert herself and challenge the status quo, the novel raises important questions about power, privilege, and the ways in which society dictates our roles and identities.

Overall, Mary Broome is a thought-provoking and engaging read that offers a nuanced portrayal of the complexities of class and gender dynamics. Highly recommended for readers interested in historical fiction and social commentary.

Book Description:
Before Downton Abbey, there was Mary Broome. In Allan Monkhouse's 1911 satire, when the son of a middle-class household gets their housemaid pregnant, the two families must try to combine their very different values.