Another Heartbeat In The House

Two women living a hundred years apart. One home that binds them together.

When Edie Chadwick travels to Ireland to close up her uncle’s lakeside lodge, it’s as much to escape the burden of guilt she’s carrying as to break loose from the smart set of 1930’s London.

The old house is full of memories – not just her own, but those of a woman whose story has been left to gather dust in a chest in the attic: a handwritten memoir inscribed with an elegant signature . . . Eliza Drury.

As she turns the pages of the manuscript, Edie uncovers secrets she could never have imagined: an exciting tale of ambition, hardship, love and tragedy – a story that has waited a lifetime to be told…

Reviews

“Beaufoy convincingly channels voices from the 1930s and 1840s to create a hugely enjoyable book, perfect for a lazy summer afternoon.” – Irish Times

“Everything is alive in Kate Beaufoy’s new novel: the slang of a former era rings authentically, a house has a personality, a dog has a voice. If you’re looking for an absorbing, delicious well-told tale in which to lose yourself, this is it.” – Evening Herald

“[Beaufoy’s] keen ear for dialogue echoes with the wit of Austen.” – Irish Independent

“Sweeps you away to an Ireland of the past and keeps you utterly enthralled.” – Marian Keyes

“A compelling atmosperic story brimming with period detail about two feisty, independent heroines who will steal your heart.” – Cathy Kelly

“With a marvellously evocative setting, strong and believable lead characters and a pacey plot, Another Heartbeat in the House is a great read” – Liz Trenow

“A delightful story, rich, engrossing and vividly told.” – Rachel Hore

“A historical novel about a proto-feminist who might have been the inspiration for Thackeray’s Becky Sharp. It’s funny, intelligent and intriguing.” – Best Books of Summer, Woman & Home

“Lightness of touch with wonderful scene-setting, a brace of brave and independent female characters who nest in your imagination and refuse be evicted – and William Thackeray to boot… Settle in and enjoy.” – Deirdre Purcell

Click here to get Reading Group questions for this book.
Click here to read an article from the Irish Times 15 July 2015