Mrs Forsythe by Vivienne Lingard

Marjorie Forsythe is the central character in this intelligent and compelling novel that explores a woman's life from a previous era who was unhappily constrained by the confines of domesticity of marriage and raising a family. It is only after her husband’s passing in the 1970s that she can finally step out on her own and explore other life options, her passions and her dreams.

Marjorie builds a new life for herself in Wellington, and she sets herself an agenda that she explores with great enthusiasm. She works, learns a new language, takes dance lessons, and many more things – she is her own mistress and won’t let others take away from her pursuits. She is determined and resilient, although often much too forthright with her long-suffering friends and family who find her challenging, especially when she puts pen to paper and informs them of any wrongdoings or faults.

But her tough exterior is better understood when details of her childhood emerge. Her father was killed at war and her mother couldn’t cope, perhaps causing Marjorie to also be emotionally detached. She has fierce intelligence but usually doesn’t warm to others.

The novel is punctuated by memorable retorts by Marjorie, often delivered with irony and wit, and she is a formidable, unforgettable woman. And the author takes us on a journey as Marjorie lives an entirely different life from before. But will she find happiness?

It’s a fascinating insight into the lives of women who might have wanted more from their lives than only marriage and motherhood, in a time when women’s choices were constrained, and often there was no time or budget for higher learning or being able to pursue other goals in life apart from raising a family. Well-written and will provoke much discussion.

Reviewer: Karen McMillan

Artistry Publishing