A Historical Moment Reimagined
Helen Simonson’s third novel, ‘The Hazelbourne Ladies Motorcycle and Flying Club,’ transports readers to the English seaside in the summer of 1919. Set just after World War I, the narrative captures a time when everything and nothing had changed for women in England. The novel intertwines historical context with personal stories, making it a compelling read for those interested in the period.
Central Characters and Their Journeys
The story revolves around Constance Haverhill, who finds herself in a precarious situation after the war. With her bookkeeping job gone, she is reluctantly working as a companion to the elderly Mrs. Fog at a seaside hotel. Constance’s life takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of Poppy Wirrall and her brother Harris. Poppy, a spirited woman who delivered messages and supplies via motorcycle during the war, is now trying to establish a motorcycle taxi business. Harris, a war veteran who lost a leg, struggles with his dreams of flying again amid societal constraints.
Thematic Elements and Cultural Context
Simonson weaves in various themes such as racism, jingoism, and the repercussions of war, along with the limitations imposed by class expectations on women. The novel reflects the complex society of post-war England—a world still grappling with women taking on roles that were once considered unthinkable. Despite these heavy themes, the book has moments of levity, primarily through its flatly villainous characters, adding balance to the narrative.
A Summertime Tale with Depth
Set against the backdrop of a picturesque seaside, ‘The Hazelbourne Ladies Motorcycle and Flying Club’ offers more than just a historical account. The fresh seaside descriptions, romantic entanglements, and introspective tone make it an engaging story. The novel concludes with a bittersweet ending, fitting for a book that simultaneously celebrates personal freedoms and acknowledges societal constraints.
While some readers may wish for more focus on the motorcycle club and its aspirations, the novel’s depth and historical accuracy make it a noteworthy addition to Helen Simonson’s oeuvre.