Tidings

This was supposed to be just Christmas like any other. Maybe less crowded than usual as some of Will's four children decided they would prefer to go somewhere else rather than spend it in an delapidated old mill in Morvan, the summer retreat of their parents. But fate apparently intervened and all members of the family (and some people who would like to join the family) gathered together around the fire-place. Words were spoken but these were kind words, words of forgiveness and understanding. Gifts were exchanged but they were given straight from the heart. Songs were sung and for once everybody joined in. There is not much of a story here beyond six people get together, each with his or her emotional baggage, only to learn that they love each other. Sounds so simple but few people can make a novel as good as this one of such a simple story. This is the best of Wharton's novels, it is so quiet and unassuming that reviewers missed it completely and publishers did not bother to keep it in print. Consequently, it may be somewhat difficult to get hold of a copy but rest assured - it is well worth the effort.