The Comfort Book Club / China Court by Rumer Godden

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2 жыл бұрын

Welcome to the first Comfort Book Club discussion! Mum and I are chatting about August's book choice, 'China Court' by Rumer Godden. There are a few spoilers in this chat, as we're assuming you have read the book if you watch! See below for details on the '84 Charing Cross Road' giveaway (this is October's book pick). Let us know your thoughts on 'China Court' in the comments, and be sure to mention whether you wish to be included in the giveaway! Special thanks to Anne and Pamela for recording some of their thoughts on 'China Court' to include within this episode.
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SUBSCRIBE: If you enjoy this video, please consider subscribing to my youtube channel. I'd be thrilled! / mirandamills
SUPPORT: No pressure at all, but if you would like to support my work by making a donation to my channel, you can 'buy me a tea!': www.buymeacoffee.com/mirandam...
INSTAGRAM: Do join me on Instagram: @mirandasnotebook ( mirandasnot...) and @mirandasbookcase ( mirandasboo...)
BOOK CLUB: I host the Comfort Book Club with my Mum, and every month we pick a comforting read and discuss it on the last Friday of the month (along with a baking session!). Everyone is very welcome to read along with us. See our other chosen reads for Autumn - Christmas here: / mirandamills
Join in on instagram, tagging @TheComfortBookClub #TheComfortBookClub
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GIVEAWAY:
(GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED - CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNER, LIZ DORRINGTON). Include a mention of '84 Charing Cross Road' in your comment if you'd like to be entered for this international giveaway. You must be over 18 to enter and must provide your address on request in order to receive the book.
The giveaway ends Monday 30th August 9am BST. The winner will be selected at random and will be contacted in the comments & announced at the start of my next video. Good luck!
LINKS:
(affiliate links used for Blackwells)
China Court by Rumer Godden: blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/pro...
A Fugue in Time by Rumer Godden: blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/pro...
84 Charing Cross Road (Slightly Foxed edition): foxedquarterly.com/shop/helen...
Heartthrobs by Carol Dyhouse: blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/pro...
Time is a Stream by Rumer Godden (short story): www.newyorker.com/magazine/19...
VANILLA CREAM RECIPE:
First, measure 4 Tbsps of sweet Sherry and 1 Tbsp water into saucepan (2 Tbsps good vanilla plus 3 Tbsps water can be substituted). Add the thin peel of one lemon and set aside for 1/2 hour.
Next, whip 575ml double cream until thickened, but still liquid (stop before the cream starts making soft peaks).
Then, soak 4 gelatine leaves in 4 Tbsps of cold water for 5 mins. Drain and remove the now softened gelatine from the water, squeezing out any excess water and add the gelatine to the Sherry mixture in the saucepan. Heat over a gentle heat stirring constantly until the gelatine is all melted and then add 2 Tbsps caster sugar, and continue stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Be careful not to boil the mixture. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 2-3 minutes.
Fold the gelatine and Sherry mixture into the cream gently with a large spoon. Pour into a prepared mould(s) (we used one old fashioned decorative pint glass mould and two small copper ones, all lightly oiled, or you can line a loaf tin with cling film that overhangs the edges, and pour the mixture into that for an easy-to-turn-out version). Cover and refrigerate for 2-3 hours, or overnight until ready to serve. For serving, ease the edges of the velvet cream gently away from the edges and carefully use a knife to loosen as much as possible, carefully dip briefly the mould into a tin filled about 1/3 full with very hot water to loosen the bottom (you might need to do this twice or so) and un-mould onto a pretty plate. Decorate with berries of your choice, and (optional) serve with a berry sauce.
NOTE: Music in my video is from Epidemic Sound, a subscription service that provides royalty free music.

Пікірлер: 229

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Our next read for the 'Comfort Book Club' is 'Period Piece' by Gwen Raverat. Our discussion video will go up on the last Friday in September. In the meantime, I'll be sharing updates and posts about the book and Gwen Raverat on the new Comfort Book Club instagram account (@thecomfortbookclub) so do follow along and keep the conversation going there! instagram.com/thecomfortbookclub/?hl=en

@rosgray5286 2 жыл бұрын

I loved China Court it was such an engaging read, I was interested in the fact that Mrs Quinn didn't pick her husband and had no say in the proposal and the same happened to Tracy. It was almost an arranged marriage which worked out well. I loved the domestic detail in the book, the cats and pasties on the window sills and the bucket of sweetpeas left out to catch the morning dew. I would like to be included in the give away for the Helen Hanff book.

@stephanielow2537 2 жыл бұрын

I've been struggling a lot with depression this year. Finding your booktube channel has cheered me up on hard days, and has motivated me to bake for my mum & grandmother on my better days. My mom is my best friend too, so I relate to Miranda so much! Thank you for your delightful videos.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

I am so sorry you have been struggling with depression, Stephanie, but I'm glad if my videos have helped in anyway! We are both very lucky to have our mums as our best friends! Take care and sending hugs ❤️

@stephanielow2537 2 жыл бұрын

@@MirandaMills Thank you! Much appreciated 😊

@andraste6746 2 жыл бұрын

I have been the same. Peaceful channels like this do help lift the mood a little.

@janetpinhorn803 2 жыл бұрын

Just as a note, I recently enjoyed Rumer Godden's memoir " A House with Four Rooms" where she referenced an Indian Proverb, in the very beginning..."everyone is a house with four rooms, a physical, , a mental, an emotional and a spiritual. Most of us tend to live in one room most of the time but, unless we go into every room every day, even if only to keep it aired, we are not a complete person." Thought you might find this interesting.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Oh yes, I mentioned this book in our discussion actually & read another interesting passage from it 😊

@bettedubois9925 2 жыл бұрын

Yes. Beautiful quote. I love her memoir Thus Far and No Further. Available from Abebooks. Insights into her life in the Himalayas. Delightful read.

@PatHerranz 2 жыл бұрын

Lovely proverb 🤍

@cherrycato1940 2 жыл бұрын

So so right Janet, I must remember to air all my rooms daily. Thanks 💕🍒

@andraste6746 2 жыл бұрын

I haven’t heard that quote for a long time, it’s so good.

@anitaday599 2 жыл бұрын

I loved the piece you read from China Court. Miranda. It reminded me so of my great grandmothers house. Floors boards that smelt of polish, sparkling clean windows that light poured through, small vases of fresh flowers. She lived to a grand age and that's why I'm lucky to hold those memories clearly xx

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Anita! What a lovely memory that passage conjured for you xxx

@sonjadevenney2524 2 жыл бұрын

I am jealous that you and your mother love the same books. My mom and I have such different tastes

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

We are lucky to have similar tastes!

@pamelapoet9 2 жыл бұрын

It's so fascinating to me when you can trace the development of an author’s style from one piece of writing to the next and when an author shares insights into their creative process. It’s like seeing a bit of the rabbit, just the tips of the ears, perhaps, peeking out of the magician’s hat. Such an interesting comment, Miranda, about the influence of The Blitz. I had also been thinking of the connection to Virginia Woolf-especially in that scene in the middle of To the Lighthouse. Mrs. Ramsay has died and the house is vacant, but the empty rooms are still alive with the past. I would love to see China Court adapted to the screen. All the period and domestic details! The lush gardens. I can just envision the editing cuts and scene fades that would move us back and forth in time. Thank you so much for sharing my clip and for chatting about Peter and Tracy. It felt a bit like time travel to hear my voice echoed back from your room. I couldn't help myself. I found myself waving hello as if you could see me. :) As always, I so appreciate the effort and enthusiasm you, as well as your mum, invest in creating such high-quality content. Looking forward to getting lost in Period Piece!

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much again for your lovely audio contribution, Pamela! And thank you for this insightful comment too. Yes, I think there are definitely comparisons that can be drawn between Godden and Woolf. I think China Court would make an absolutely marvellous film - they would give it a much better ending in the movies, too!! But all her lush descriptions of home and place and the many larger than life characters would translate so well to the screen. There is an old (1948) film that was made of 'A Fugue in Time,' starring David Niven that is well worth a watch. It was called 'Enchanted' and I found the interior / domestic scenes fascinating, as well as the glimpses of London during the war xxx

@pamelapoet9 2 жыл бұрын

@@marionknell630 Thank you for the kind note!

@pamelapoet9 2 жыл бұрын

@@MirandaMills Thank you for the film recommendation!

@happymonkey9416 2 жыл бұрын

Dear Miranda and Donna, it always cheers me to watch one of your bookish chats. You two are a delightful duo. Dare I say, a comfort among the chaos that is the world!

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

That is so sweet! Thank you so much ☺️📚💕

@kathenelson6562 2 жыл бұрын

I so enjoyed listening to this first Comfort Book Club discussion! I was sorry that I couldn’t get hands on China Court in time to read it along with you, but your comments and insights make me eager to start. There are so many details that I identify with - chief among them the importance of a house/home where you can set down roots. I adore reading both fiction and non-fictions books that center on houses and, like Godden, I have been through many moves and experienced having to leave homes I loved. I am also captivated by your description of her use of tenses and her use of the Canonical Hours for chapters, and I especially liked the matriarchal lineage that runs down through the generations. Having come from a similar matriarchal background of generations of women alone, making do, raising children, I find this very uplifting and relatable. Being able to listen to comments from your guests was a treat, and your and your mother’s readings from Godden’s books were so enlightening. Indeed, the entire discussion was marvelous. And It’s so lovely that there is another giveaway - having a SF edition of ‘84 Charing Cross Road would be wonderful. That’s so generous of you and your mother. Thank you so much! ❤️

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

I'm so glad you enjoyed our discussion, even if you couldn't get hold of a copy of China Court! Hope you have the chance to read it another time. The SF edition of '84 Charing Cross Rd' is gorgeous - good luck with the giveaway! xxx

@kathenelson6562 2 жыл бұрын

@@MirandaMills Thank you, Miranda! And I meant to mention that your cream dessert looked luscious! I am definitely going to try it. 🤍

@lizdorrington2851 2 жыл бұрын

Many thanks for the comfort book club Miranda and Donna, in these crazy times your channel is a true form of stress relief. China Court is such a complete treasure and the finding of the rare books and their legacy truly warmed my little bookish, book hoarding heart so much! I would love to win 84 Charing Cross Road first of all because it sounds like an amazing book but also just purely because it's associated with your channel which has been my sanctuary . I love the close relationship that you and Donna have, it reinforces just how precious mother and daughter relationships are and it makes me so grateful for the close bond I have with my daughter's. I want to say thank you so much for opening up this giveaway internationally so that we in Australia don't miss out, especially us here in Western Australia.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your lovely words! I definitely feel that part of the plot was of huge appeal to book lovers 😀 It's so much fun to be able to go this book club with my Mum! xxx

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Hello Liz! Congratulations - you have won the giveaway! Would you please email me your address (miranda@mirandasnotebook.com) ? xxx

@faithwentworth7906 2 жыл бұрын

I loved our first 'Comfort Book Club' discussion! Many thanks to Miranda and Donna for putting so much effort into it. I'm especially thrilled that I didn't have to tweak the Velvet Cream recipe myself!! Excited to try that out. Anne and Pamela, I loved listening to your insights. Very nice to hear actual voices. Makes it feel as if we are indeed a group. My favorite character is John Henry because without him Ripsie's life would have been tragic I think. My favorite quote is the entire first sentence of the third paragraph of the first page beginning, " The usual house sounds went on, but muted:...". When I read the very specific details that followed, I knew I would love the book. I would be thrilled to be entered into the drawing for 84 Charring Cross Road.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Great to read your thoughts, Faith, thank you. So glad you enjoyed the discussion, and I hope you have fun trying out the velvet cream! We certainly found the end result delicious 😀 I loved the opening passages of the book too xxx

@shanne6625 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Miranda and Donna for a fun and challenging first read. Your discussion helped me understand the time issues of the book in a more relevant way. I enjoyed reading China Court very much. It reminded me of home. I am from an old Southern town in the USA, Natchez, Mississippi. This is a town where houses and their histories are still valued. The houses are truly loved by the families. Stories are shared with visitors daily of the people and the lives lived in the houses. Many have been in families for generations, so I have a natural love of old homes and the people that cherish them. I bookmarked several sections that were evocative for me, the first was the description of what makes a home. Apparently, many of us loved that description. I also loved the vision of a song and how “ songs are memories, even when you don’t want them to be.” It’s like being transported in time when I hear a song from long ago, and so I am once more there for a few moments, even when it may not have been the best few moments. The final section that spoke to me was Godden’s description of loneliness, how “all humans are lonely…but loneliness can be good…loneliness is rich because it takes the imprint of each thing it sees and hears and tastes. There’s time if one is alone…” i loved the idea that being alone is not always a bad thing-that’s hard for many people today. I loved the relationship with Tracy and her grandmother. In their own ways, they were both outcasts that ultimately loved the main character of the story, China Court-they loved enough to give all for it and to endure the others who couldn’t love it. It was a grand ending for books to be the savior of the house. Cheers to rare book collectors!! Can’t wait for the next book 📕

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Your town sounds like a fascinating place, Shanne! It was so interesting to read your thoughts, thank you. I love all the descriptions you earmarked, and that passage about loneliness is very moving and very true, I think! xxx

@asrabechaz3383 2 жыл бұрын

I love China Court and it brought back many memories of other Rumer Godden books where time merges into the past, present and future, such as 'The Peacock Summer' and ' Battle at the Villa Fiorita'. As it happens the mention of the book ' 84 Charing Cross Road' reminded me of the past and in this current time, nice memories are so important, as here in Victoria, Australia, we are once again in a strict lockdown. More than thirty one years ago I read '84 Charing Cross Road' and on our honeymoon in 1990 we strolled the length of Charing Cross Road in London looking for No. 84 - it brought back memories of a very happy time. AB

@writergrrl8100 2 жыл бұрын

I love the cozy feeling attached to the idea of a house being passed down for generations. Here in Canada, that is happening less and less, except maybe within farming families, but even then, many farms are being amalgamated and the farm houses being razed or rented out to a steady stream of transient residents. My parent's own 100-year-old-plus home will also probably be razed when the farm eventually changes hands, a new monstrosity built in its place, which is the current trend. I think of all the memories etched into the walls, the traditions carved into the wood trim, that will be destroyed as time marches on.

@kimm2445 2 жыл бұрын

Hi, Miranda and Donna. Thank you for this book club and for all the comfort you two have brought us during this difficult year. I enjoyed China Court. As for the unsettling scene at the end, I think Ms. Godden was trying to be realistic about the emotions, awkwardness, fear and shock they would feel when they realized what they just did. I also wonder if the author was trying to correct what would have been seen at the time as an uneven marriage. With Walter constantly disparaging him for his family’s failure and his lack of money, Peter would seem weak by 1950s standards; that scene showed that he could “take charge,” which would have sat well with readers in the 1950s, even though it makes us ill today. Thanks again! Kim

@penelopeschinwag 2 жыл бұрын

Try as hard as I could I was unable to find a copy of China Court. Enjoyed your wonderful discussion and treat at the end. I have made your recipe suggestions for Chocolate Brownies, the best!. I have managed to procure a copy of Period Piece and will be looking forward to listening to your discussion in September. Thanks for your discussion and also the comments below. So interesting too.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

I'm so you couldn't get a copy of China Court, but glad you enjoyed our discussion anyway! And I do love that brownie recipe so much so am glad you're enjoying it too!! Looking forward to Period Piece in September! xxx

@hannasinare5280 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much for organizing the book club for your discussion, and for providing context to the book! I really appreciate the domestic details in China court, as you mentioned in the discussion. The passages that you read part of, on the smells and sounds of the house, and the descriptions of what hands do in the house. I also marked this passage about the back stairs “A comfortable smell of cooking, of wet wool drying, of hot starched linen always hangs about those stairs.” I also loved description of the garden, gardening and flower species, and how flowers are used in the story. For example, when Mrs Quin is told that her son is dead: “As they tell her, she fixes her eyes on the snowdrop, minutely looking at the three green-edged petals, the tiny stamens.” /…/ “As the words are spoken, though she is expecting them, the snowdrop seems to burn itself into her brain”. I liked Ripsie/Mrs Quinn as a character, because she does things her own way. And I really felt for Eliza in her frustration not being allowed to be useful and acknowledge for her skills, and loved her book collecting. I didn’t think of Tracy as a more stereotypic female character, rather that (in contrast to Eliza in her time) she wanted the home and domesticity, but was expected to travel and study and use all such opportunities. You discussed the male characters a bit, but I would like to mention some thoughts on Borowis and John Henry. Godden doesn’t picture Borowis so that you understand why Ripsie loves him, he only seems selfish and insensitive, but let you understand that he is charismatic. I have more sympathy for John Henry, he seems constant, being there, loving, but of course odd to declare an engagement without asking… I'm looking forward to reading Period piece and then 84 Charing Cross Road, it would be lovely to win the Slightly Foxed edition!

@kuhelide6488 2 жыл бұрын

Lovely to see you and Donna as always. I started China Court but yet to finish it and hearing your review of it, I am now keen to go back and finish it. I read 84 Charing Cross Road a couple of years ago and it has since become one of my all time favourite reads. I even made by husband visit and send me a photograph of Helene Hanff's first apartment in NYC when he was there for a work trip. The Slightly Foxed edition looks lovely and so happy that you chose 84 Charing Cross Road as one the Comfort Book Club reads. Yay!!! Hope you someday do a vlog on books about books. Have a nice weekend!

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

How fun you got him to snap a photo of her apartment! Hope you enjoy reading the rest of CC xxx

@brendahemby3848 2 жыл бұрын

I've been so looking forward to this video. I loved China Court! My daughter and I share books and as soon as I finished it I sent it off to her. Your discussion was so insightful. Makes me want to read the book again. I think Mrs. Quinn was my favorite character in the book. She came such a long way in her life and saw the others much more clearly than they saw themselves. I just ordered A Fugue in Time so I'm looking forward to reading that and then comparing the two stories. I would love to be entered into the drawing for 84 Charring Cross Road. My daughter and I love Slightly Foxed books would treasure that edition. Looking forward to the discussion next month.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much, Brenda! So glad you loved China Court, and it's lovely to hear that you read along with your daughter too! I like Mrs Quin a lot too, and I find it very satisfying that she becomes the true voice of the house. I found it so interesting to read A Fugue in Time - I thought China Court was overall a stronger book, but I really enjoyed Fugue too, and they're such similar stories in many ways that it's fascinating to compare them xxx

@RebekahBolling 2 жыл бұрын

@@MirandaMills wooo! Great read! @brendaearlhemby daughter here! Mom and I so enjoyed this book. I think my favorite part was the structure. I loved that it was so unique and different from anything else I've read. To me it was almost giving Time a voice in the book as well. Can't wait to read A Fugue in Time when mom's done. Read fast mom! Lol

@juliebradby3225 2 жыл бұрын

Oh my goodness where do i start? China Court has to be my new favourite book and will be forever. The descriptions of the house as the treasured home was so comforting and tugs at numerous memories of grandmothers and their homes where I always felt surrounded by love and all things handmade: cushions curtains aprons tablecloths, quilts cardigans...! Domestic life is respected and revered. Oh thank you such a wonderful read to submerge myself in this time as we are in our sixth lockdown here in Victoria Australia. And i haven't even talked about the people or the time stretching of the structure. Loved it and thanks girls love you both. Great balanced discussion.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

I'm so glad you enjoyed it so much, Julie, and that it kept you going through another lockdown! I loved all the descriptions of the house too. Have a lovely weekend xxx

@leticia3541 2 жыл бұрын

I can't join in with the readings for the book club unfortunately as I have so much to read for my upcoming OU year, but I'll be following along still as I enjoy listening to you and your Mum and your thoughts! I love dissecting a book and listening to people's takes on characters, plot, tone etc. It's so interesting to hear! Thanks for another lovely video. I will take myself out the running for this competition as I won't be able to participate in the read ahead of the discussion and would prefer someone to win who can! X

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Good luck with all your course reading! Glad you still enjoy the discussions xxx

@leticia3541 2 жыл бұрын

@@racheldemain1940 Hi Rachel, thank you! And yes English Literature I'm onto year 5 now so almost there. What are you studying? Best of luck too!x

@leticia3541 2 жыл бұрын

@@racheldemain1940 best of luck 😊

@joannaburgess825 2 жыл бұрын

I loved your discussion on “China Court”. I definitely want to read it, unfortunately I was in hospital much of August. I look forward to joining in for September read, “Period Piece”. I would love to read “84 Charring Cross Road. God Bless you both from across the pond. Maine USA...ps I love your channel. Reminds me of my relationship with my Mum, she passed last November.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

I'm glad to bring back happy memories, although I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope you are in much better shape now too and can enjoy joining in the September read! xxx

@joannaburgess825 2 жыл бұрын

@@MirandaMills thank you so much for your kind words!

@ingertsvard6731 2 жыл бұрын

Thank u so much. A glass of wine and a good KZfaq video from Miranda and Donna can bright up the roughest day - and it has been one. So lovely thank u.

@teresaparkins1255 2 жыл бұрын

Hello Miranda and Donna, thank you for the recipe and for choosing China Court for the first Comfort Book Club read. Reading Rumer Godden always makes me feel unsettled and this was no exception. Did Ripsie love the house, she loved the garden - it was full of memories of Borowis who was cruel, like Heathcliff. And was Stace his child? Ripsie offered solace to Isabel through Stace. I think Rumer Godden makes the houses in her stories terrifying as they dominate their inhabitants, crumbling and absorbing their emotional traumas to be played back through memories. I love the line "the house seemed to answer, 'in the midst of death we are in life'. Cecily observes it all. Peter gives Tracey a 'stinging' slap on the cheek, telling her that although he was sorry, he warned her and that another time she should believe him. It is prophetic then that the figure that is broken is both china and female - just like almost all the women in China Court broken by the men who are not as clever and destined to fail and to die young. Rumer Godden herself said that her stories were not sweet. These are issues of humanity that Rumer Godden is addressing and at the time she was writing the second wave of feminist ideas were emerging, so I am not put off as a modern reader that the gender roles are identified in this way. And yet, it is her observations of the domestic, which ground and offer a salve, in which she excels and my favourite quote from the book - "another light in the drawing room where Lady Patrick, alone too, sits with her embroidery frame, stitching, her needle making an even small plock-plock sound as it goes through the silk. At ten o'clock she will cover the frame and go to bed - alone." That is a clever and timeless picture. Anyway I've gone on too long, thank you both so much for the opportunity to talk about this book which I loved reading and I am looking forward to re-reading Period Piece for September. Happy reading, Teresa 📚

@faithwentworth7906 2 жыл бұрын

Teresa, I love your take on the book as its making me think about a few elements in a different way. Shows how layered China Court really is.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

So interesting to read your thoughts, Teresa - thank you for sharing! I didn't feel the house was threatening, as I felt it contained all the joys and memories mixed in with sorrows, but yes I think Stace was definitely Borowis's child! That is a very poignant quote you shared. Looking forward to discussing Period Piece next month! xxx

@irembilkin4395 2 жыл бұрын

Dear Miranda, your channel, your lovely and warm chats and outings with your mom have tremendously transformed my dark days since the pandemic. I look forward to each one of your comforting videos and now the fascinating read-along with the bookclub. Thank you so much.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

That is so kind; thank you very much xxx

@estefaniainfantes5557 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Miranda for creating this wonderful book club! For a lot of us is a happy place ☺️ I too want to participate in the 84 Charing Cross Road giveaway! Thank you!

@flippinpages6550 2 жыл бұрын

I loved reading so much of this book with all the descriptions of the garden. I felt the garden was a character also. It made me long for lavender. I have no luck growing lavender at my home because we have so many trees shading our place. I did love the house being saved by books and the pesky relatives not getting the house. But when I read the end with the slap I was so disturbed and felt dread for the marriage. Much like my grandmother's Harlequin romances with the alpha males dominating the winsome female in the gossamer clothing. It was a small challenge moving back and forth in time while reading. I had to skip back a few times figuring out where I was in the story. Fun. Thanks and I ordered the next book. I got China Court from Amazon and it took 2 weeks for delivery and I was worried about getting to read it on time. I got it in plenty of time.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Yes, the garden is a character in its own right too! It sounded so beautiful. Yes, thank goodness times have changed!

@indydriven2596 2 жыл бұрын

A home provides so much - not just shelter and warmth but safety and a sense of how we want to (and do) live our lives. The wonderful descriptions of China Court is what I enjoyed most. Loved the book discussion and, as always, lovely to see Donna again. I look forward to next month’s book club selection. Yes, I would like to be considered for the book give-a-way, thanks.

@Prairielily04 2 жыл бұрын

I so enjoyed this discussion! Thank you very much. I would love to receive a copy of 84 Charring Cross Road. I loved the movie but have not read the book.

@lisa1922 2 жыл бұрын

Miranda, China Court was a brilliant pick for the inaugural read of The Comfort Bookclub - I so enjoyed it, and loved listening to your discussion today with Donna - thank you! I had only read, many years ago, In this House of Brede, so I really enjoyed this opportunity to read more of Rumer Godden's fiction. I loved the fluid depiction of time, and how she evoked the beauty of the country house and made it come alive. Now I am intrigued and looking forward to reading A Fugue in Time too. I am very much looking forward to rereading Period Piece and 84 Charing Cross Road, one of my favorite books of all time. I no longer have my old paperback copy so I would be very happy to be entered into the drawing to win the gorgeous Slightly Foxed edition. Lisa xx

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much, Lisa! I'm so glad you enjoyed China Court & our first discussion video. It's so interesting to read 'A Fugue in Time' alongside China Court - I hope you enjoy it too! xxx

@lomazowr1 2 жыл бұрын

I agree China Court was a definite character in the novel.I was drawn in by the house itself the rooms the descriptions of the rooms.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Oh yes, I loved all the descriptions so much, down to the tiniest detail & even things like Cornish pasties left on the windowsill for the gardener 💕

@emilyd.jackson2277 2 жыл бұрын

Hello, Miranda and Donna. Thank you again for launching the Comfort Book Club. It's inaugural discussion was wonderful! I also enjoyed the insight both Anne and Pamela shared. Well done on the velvet cream, too. It looked delicious. I love how vague old recipes can seem to us in present times. It just goes to show how intuitive and skilled bakers and cooks were in olden days. Like many have already mentioned, I struggled at the beginning of China Court before I picked up on what Godden was doing. About half way through it clicked and I sailed through to the end. Upon reflection, her ability to weave past, present, and future was masterful. It has left me wanting to reread portions of the book (need to check the library's due date! ) and to secure a copy of my own. Godden's descriptions are too good to only read once.

@janicemacdougall1844 2 жыл бұрын

I did not finish reading China Court in time for your book discussion video but will watch it when I am finished reading. I just finished reading the section about the will and I couldn't help smiling the whole time I was reading it!!! I just love this book and am going to see if my local libraries have other books by Rumer Godden. Thank you so much for choosing this book. :) I would absolutely love to win 84 Charing Cross Road!!! Thank you for this contest and to you and your Mum for this channel.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

I love that scene where the will is read aloud too!!

@kamicastillo1451 2 жыл бұрын

That was wonderful! Also enjoyed hearing the messages from a couple of the ladies participating. I just love you and your mom!!

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much- very glad you enjoyed it 😊

@julierogers1155 2 жыл бұрын

So excited to watch/listen to this, the first video of the Comfort Book Club. I have NOT read the book yet. Ordered my copy from Blackwell's the day the book club was announced (it was just "despatched" yesterday, and it has a long way to travel to me on the west coast of the United States). For book club, I ONLY read physical books. It is not possible for me to listen to an audiobook, or even read a digital copy, and be able to discuss the book on the level of a book club. I have already ordered the next selection, and anticipate receiving it in time! For a book where the house is kind of the main character, I liked "THE BIG HOUSE" by George Howe Colt. The house is located in Cape Cod (U.S.A.) George (author) and his family are going to stay in the house, for perhaps the last time, as the heirs are talking about needing to sell the "Big House" after it being in the family for several generations.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Hope it gets to you soon, Julie! Your book recommendation sounds interesting, but the author got left off xxx

@julierogers1155 2 жыл бұрын

@@MirandaMills OH! Will edit my original comment, and the author is George Howe Colt.

@MountainWhispers86 2 жыл бұрын

I just love this book club as it works so well for me as a busy mom. Its also a joy watching your videos. Im so excited to start the next one. Plus i treated myself for my birthday gift i bought a new travel glass with a steeping basket and some new loose leaf tea to go in it and it was bought specifically when i get lost in a book i can enjoy hot tea as well :)

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much! I'm so glad you enjoy my videos! That sounds like such a fun gift to yourself - enjoy! 😊

@janicemacdougall1844 2 жыл бұрын

I just added four of Rumer Godden's children's books to my reading list. :) Unfortunately, my library does not have September's book, but I will still watch the video. :) Sometimes I wish I lived in the UK where there seem to be wonderful classics bookstores.

@sarajefferies4753 2 жыл бұрын

I loved reading along and joining in the Comfort Book club this month Miranda. Such an apt choice for a cosy read, which has been most welcome for me this month! I very much enjoyed the idea of China Court being the central character in the novel; and Rumer Godden evokes such a wonderful sense of time & place. Her description of (as you so perfectly termed it) 'cosy domesticity' is one of my favourite things about the book; and reminded me of Rosamunde Pilcher in the way she uses scent to bring the house to life; describing it as being redolent of lavender, beeswax polish & woodsmoke. I was rather disombobulated by the 'love' scene at the end, but having seen your discussion now, it does make sense! I'm looking forward to reading Period Piece next month, and although I have previously read 84 Charing Cross Road, it was a long time ago, and I don't have my own copy, so I would love to be included in your giveaway. Thank you (as always!) for everything you do to bring book lovers such wonderful content, both here and on Instagram! 😊

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much, Sara! That's true - all those cosy domestic details are a lot like a Pilcher novel; I think someone else commented that 'China Court' appealed to so many different senses, and I too loved all the descriptions of tastes, smells & sights that make up a home xxx

@sandybeth6703 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Miranda and Donna, China Court was such an amazing read. Rumer Godden’s writing is so descriptive. You can be deep in the book and suddenly it feels like you are watching a movie, so vivid are her descriptions. I loved the book and at the beginning it was so useful to have the family tree. The ending shocked me, but I understood it to mean that life is no fairy tale! Up until the moment of ‘the slap’ it had been almost too perfect; the will, the rare books, the wedding and suddenly we are brought back to reality. I would love to win 84 Charing Cross Road and I adore Slightly Foxed books. I have just purchased Period Piece for next month.

@nancyfritz1827 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Miranda and Donna for this wonderful and thoughtful discussion, your insights into this novel and the amount of time and care you obviously took in your preparations. I also enjoyed the audio contributions from the two book club members. All of your thoughts contributed to my appreciation of "China Court" I loved reading this book and felt like the house was actually telling the story of all the inhabitants (both human and animal - the pets were also important characters with their own personalities). The novel was beautifully written and I read with a note pad nearby as there were so many sentences and passages I wanted to remember. My favorite: " Through the house crept the warm and living smell of baking" My mother and grandmother were fabulous bakers so my concept of home and love is entwined with the smell of favorite family recipes that have been passed down through generations. It is almost time to make a plum tart - our September tradition that I am honored to keep going. Thank you for addressing the ending of the novel. I also struggled with it and felt a little let down, and you helped me gain some perspective. I read the 1961 edition of this book that I obtained from our library. It was marked "in fragile condition" and was indeed a bit battered and had a library card stamped with all of the checkout dates in a pocket in the back. (remember those?) As I read I found myself thinking about all the other readers through the years who also found enjoyment in this book and held it in their hands. This made the reading of China Court a very pleasurable experience! Of course I would love to win a copy of "84 Charing Cross Road". How very generous of you both!! Have a wonderful weekend (and your dessert looks delicious - the recipe would be a good challenge for the "British Baking Show"!)

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

So interesting to read your thoughts, Nancy! Thank you for this insightful comment. I’m so glad you mentioned the pets because you’re right they’re characters in their own right! I love August the poodle 🐩 ❤️ I adore the line you shared, and what a wonderful tradition of baking to have in your family. Plum tart in September - divine! I do remember those old fashioned library cards 😊❤️📚

@amandaeden4932 2 жыл бұрын

At first I almost gave up with China Court as I hated the changes in tense and I was very confused by the family members (not helped by the fact that my Kindle edition had a very small print family tree which was impossible to read - I had to look online at a copy with the "Look Inside" facility, which helped!) But I am so glad I persevered, as I really became enraptured with China Court and Rumer Godden's beautiful descriptions of the day to day running of the house, and the family. I especially loved Eliza and her devious way of raising money to buy valuable books, and Ripsie, who fell in love with the house and fittingly became it's mistress. Thank you Miranda and Donna for a wonderful read which will stay with me for a long time.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

So glad you persevered and ended up enjoying it so much, Amanda! It's a book that will stay with me for a long time too. It's a shame the kindle edition has such a hard to read / access family tree - that's really not helpful! xxx

@maureen4669 2 жыл бұрын

Hello Miranda and Donna, I've been looking forward to your book club discussion all week. Thank you for all your insights - I missed such a lot including the tenses slip between past and present. My copy is on a Kindle, so I wrote out the family tree on a piece of paper so that I could refer to it as I went along - and it was much needed. I felt that the garden was also a character in its own right as I got the impression that Mrs Quin loved it almost as much as the house. My favourite scene has to be the will-reading - very Agatha Christie as I can almost see Poirot listening in at the back and taking notes about the grasping nature of many of the family members. Thank you for including the audio comments from 2 of the book club members. Please include me in the 84 Charing Cross Road giveaway.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much Maureen! You’re so right about the will-reading scene being straight out of a Poirot novel!! I loved that bit in the book. And I agree about the garden 🪴 💚

@janetdeja2098 2 жыл бұрын

So far I've enjoyed every Rumer Godden novel I've read so thanks for introducing me to this one. I'm glad you discussed the rather jarring moment at the end which kind of shocked me. Otherwise it is a new favorite for me.

@maryhlavin5986 2 жыл бұрын

Absolutely enjoyed this book and seeing both of you together ❣️

@carijohnson5834 2 жыл бұрын

84 charring cross road . Excited to read this and so enjoy your mom and you. Your videos brighten my day. Thank you.

@lisabailes1065 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you, ladies. Your insights have given me a much better opinion of the book since I misunderstood many things. This is why book discussions are so helpful. I did love the idea that books saved the day at the end of the story! I am looking forward to more discussions in the months ahead. (84, Charing Cross Road is one of my favorites - along with the movie with Anthony Hopkins! - so I'd love to enter the contest.)

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much, Lisa! Glad you found our discussion helpful! I definitely want to rewatch 84 Charing Cross Road during October - that will be fun! xxx

@preciousbodle5151 2 жыл бұрын

Dear Donna & Miranda~~ This August was so enjoyable thanks to you both! I grew up reading Rumer Godden, and often return to my childhood favorites from her, but never have I read her adult novels until now. I fell in love with her all over again with 'China Court.' Eliza and Mrs. Quin were my favorite characters. As I completed my reading, I was reminded of another book I read earlier this month, "The Magical Language Of Others" (two different books, but they both explore similar themes, particularly one's own family history, homes, multi-generational trauma/sadness, mother-daughter-grandmother relationships, and the mysteriously profound ways the past shapes the future, and helps us better understand our own place in the world. I so enjoyed your first Comfort Book Club choice, and it made me homesick for my own grandmother, her buhay (home), garden, and bygone days spent together in the Philippines. Thank you both & much love xx

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much! I’m really glad you enjoyed China Court. The Magical Language of Others sounds like a fascinating read - thank you for the recommendation 😊💕

@juliemccartney2788 2 жыл бұрын

I really enjoy watching how you and your Mum interact with each other with such love and affection, although it is bittersweet as it makes me miss my Mum who passed away three years ago. The pudding looked amazing, so quintessentially English particularly with the blackberry accompaniment. I would like to be entered into the draw for 84 Charing Cross Road please.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

I'm very lucky to be able to share this book club with my lovely mum! ❤️

@carmelsheedy1520 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Miranda and Donna for sharing your thoughts about China Court. At the beginning of the novel I was unsure where this story was headed and by chapter three I think, I was engrossed in every characters connections and really enjoyed it by the end. Perhaps Mrs Quin saw something of herself in Tracy. I too needed the family diagram to keep track if everyone. I’m going to try to make the velvet cream, thanks for persevering with the receipt so we all can make it.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much! So pleased you're giving the velvet cream a try - I hope you enjoy it! xxx

@catherinepatterson4720 2 жыл бұрын

This was a wonderful discussion. I didn’t read this book (as I reasoned in an earlier vlog), but I have received the book. I’ve just ordered online, second hand, both autobiographical books by Rumer Godden’s, as her life sounded intriguing. I wanted to mention your discussion about Peter, how he was violent toward the female character (whose name has slipped my mind) and how he was sorry afterwards, and how he was a well liked character in the book (even by yourselves, as readers). As it’s a book club discussion, I’d like to mention the charming power narcissists have. I’ve read a lot of books, and own a number of books on this topic. This is in relation to a man meets woman. He will love bomb her with words, gifts and attention. Then he’ll subtly put her down (e.g. why are you wearing lip stick, or make a comment on her outfit or what she should wear or eat). Then he’ll discard her (e.g. not be in contact for a while, or not be in contact at all) leaving the woman wondering ‘what have I done wrong?’ Then, if he stays with her, he’ll repeat the cycle i.e. love bomb her (e.g. say sorry, take her out to dinner, buy flowers and even ask her to marry her in a short period of time) etc. A game of power and control. It’s interesting to ask ourselves, why do caring woman attract, or are magnets for, self-centred narcissistic men. A non-fiction book I own, called, ‘The Human Magnet Syndrome’ by Ross Rosenberg (a psychotherapist) helps answer this question. As woman in society we need to love ourselves first (not egotistically, but with genuine love and care for ourselves), it’s then that woman will be less of a target for such self-centred narcissistic men. However, this empathy-narcissistic attraction is complex and Ross discusses it, in detail, in his book (and on KZfaq), which I recommend for those interested in this topic. Why some woman stay in such unhealthy relationships is very complex. Some woman have reported they don’t even know how they came to be in such an abusive relationship (remembering abuse doesn’t always mean physical). Of a similar topic, is possibly the book you mentioned, ‘Heart Throbs’ by Carol Dyhouse which sounds like an interesting read. The vanilla cream desert looked delicious. I’m a quarter of the way through, ‘Period Piece’ by Gwen Raverat. So far, so good. Thank you for a great first bookclub for 2021 👩‍🏫📖

@takeflightinreading863 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Miranda and Donna! Your discussion made me appreciate China Court more, proof that although reading is a solitary activity, it is enhanced with discussions with fellow readers, a positive for book clubs. I felt Godden was excellent at describing a setting, (the garden and house), or a scene (will reading or ball). The book should have been a bit longer and give more background to the current generation. I felt Tracy was used more as a device to introduce us to the story rather than a full-fleshed character. I wish we followed Tracy to her meeting with Peter to convince him to get married. The reader needed a scene of them together. As for the infamous slap, a forced kiss would have had the same effect, like in those Harlequin/ Mills &Boon books, where one passionate kiss from the Alpha hero awakens the long-dormant passionate side of the heroine 😃 Although I own The Greengage Summer and Black Narcissus, this was my first Godden to actually have read. I was so sure you will bake a Saffron Cake 😃 Looking forward to the next read!

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much! So glad you enjoyed our discussion! Yes, I found it interesting which scenes Godden chose to write 'off-stage' as it were. I too would have liked more scenes between Tracy and Peter! And oh yes, those Mills & Boon books!! "Heartthrobs' shows some of the old M&B covers - hilariously dreadful, with titles like 'Take Me! Break Me!' and featuring a woman swooning on a broad chest!! xxx

@takeflightinreading863 2 жыл бұрын

😂😂

@bookish_views 2 жыл бұрын

Really enjoyed this video Miranda and Donna, unfortunately as much as I wanted to read the book, as I mentioned before, I’m having trouble getting them shipped over, this one is on its way so will definitely catch up and enjoy it in autumn, can’t wait even more now that I watched you discussing it. Oh and the cake looked scrumptious!! Thank you for this wonderful place that The Comfort book club is, an island of joy amidst the caos we are living in, I look forward to every post and enjoy everyone look/thoughts on the books recommended. Hope Period piece gets to me soon, fingers crossed!! ❤️

@bookish_views 2 жыл бұрын

Forgot to mention I would love to be in with a chance of winning 84 charing cross road 😉 thank you for the lovely chance ❤️

@laurac56 2 жыл бұрын

I absolutely loved this book! I’m not surprised because I usually love your suggestions, they have cost me a good portion of my book budget. 😉 I borrowed the ebook from the library, but I will be on the lookout for a hard copy since I know I will want to reread this numerous times.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Yay! I’m so happy you enjoyed it so much, and I hope you can track down a nice hard copy for your shelves 😊📚💕

@kathywilson7071 2 жыл бұрын

Absolutely amazing! Thank you for talking through the ending, as it was uncomfortable. The rest of the book, as you said Miranda, "ticked all the boxes" for me. Loved yours and Donna's comments as well Ann and Pamela. What a nice treat!

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much! I’m so pleased you enjoyed our discussion 📚💫

@Lora.Crawford 2 жыл бұрын

Enjoyed the book so much! I love thinking of China Court itself as a character! I quite liked Eliza too and several others, Tracy, Ripsie... Thought the end a bit jarring but not shocking; I grew up watching old Hollywood films, plenty of face slapping there. Thoroughly enjoyed your discussion Miranda and Donna! A real treat indeed! 📚🇬🇧🥰

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much, Lora! So glad you enjoyed the discussion! xxx

@maslina4567 2 жыл бұрын

You and your mom are always inspiring! I have not read this book but have requested it from the library. The descriptions are lovely! Home/house books are my wheelhouse. So are the gorgeous recipes you make. Thank you for enriching my days with your videos!

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your kind words! Hope you enjoy China Court when you get a chance to read it ❤️

@maslina4567 2 жыл бұрын

@@MirandaMills I certainly will! Our tastes are very similar. Happiness is learning about new-to-you books and authors. :)

@psmith4333 2 жыл бұрын

I so enjoyed the discussion today on China Court! I loved so much about the story but the ending was so fun with the reading of the will and the discovery of the books! I enjoyed reading all the many thoughts from other readers too! Till next time-Missi

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much; I'm so glad you enjoyed our discussion 😊

@eleninikolina1414 2 жыл бұрын

I rememered that Horatia in Heyer's "Convenient marriage" has a stammer. Which does not stop her from being very resolute, indeed! Looking forward to your next book club! Such a great idea! :-)

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Oh I’d forgotten that!!! Thank you for referencing another female character with a stammer 😊📚💕

@lakeishadcadogan 2 жыл бұрын

I thoroughly enjoyed the book as well. This is my first time reading a book that interweaves past, present and future. It felt a little strange at first, but I quickly got caught up in the story. I admit to peeking at the family tree a few times as well. Eliza is definitely my favorite character in the book. I loved how she asked Mr. Baxter if he would “guide her and turn her loose with books.” I’m so looking forward to next month’s book. 😊

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

I'm so glad you enjoyed it too! Yes, flipping to the family tree was essential for me at the beginning too! That's a lovely line about Eliza; I really ended up loving her story xxx

@lomazowr1 2 жыл бұрын

Both you and your Mom have a lovely style of reading descriptions to us.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

That’s very kind - thank you! Xxx

@janepetrie1654 2 жыл бұрын

This was delighful, and the velvet cream looked delicious. I read 84 Charring Cross Road years ago and loved it. Thank you for holding this giveaway.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks very much! I can definitely recommend the velvet cream 😊

@pilarmartin1933 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Miranda, you both are amazing! I found your chanel when I was watching videos about Jane Austen. I love all the things you read and it is interesting for me because I try to read some books in english. The most I read is in spanish that is my language, but sometimes there is not translation or I can't wait for it. Thank you for the video, brilliant as allways 😊

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

That is so kind, thank you very much! I’m so glad you found my channel 😊💕📚

@DianeC1975 2 жыл бұрын

I enjoyed this discussion very much. It's so nice to hear your take on the characters. I liked the book. I agree that the house was featured as the main character. Reminded me of the Green Knowe books by L.M. Boston. Anyways, I will have to read it again after hearing your talk. I missed a few things.😂. Mrs. Quinn is someone I would have liked to be friends with and I got a kick out of Cecily. I was rooting for Tracy and Peter. Times certainly have changed tho. All in all it was an interesting read. I'm looking forward to the next book. Can't wait til we get to 84,Charing Cross road, I have a special edition of that book. A couple of years ago I found a boxed Folio Society copy. Thank you for sharing these reads with us. Have a great weekend. 💐📚💕

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much Diane! I know what you mean about The Children of Green Knowe - China Court reminded me of that book too! Thanks for reading along with us 😊📚💕

@nisipici 2 жыл бұрын

The Green Knowe books have been favorites of mine since I was very young and I still re-read them. It was so nice seeing them mentioned! 💖

@rhondadownes207 2 жыл бұрын

I did have a bit of a hard time with the start of China Court because of the way it is written but, as I read further, I did get into the flow of the story and found it very enjoyable. One of my favorite parts in the story is when Barbara asks Mrs. Quin how she knew about gardens and Mrs. Quin tells her that it began with the grotto and that the garden has always rescued her. I also love the paragraphs about what “Home is.... I am very much looking forward to next month’s book club and I am interested in being added to the drawing for the October’s book club book, 84 Charing Cross Road! I’ve seen the movie but I’m happily looking forward to reading the book. 🥰📚 Thank you, Miranda and Donna, for a lovely video!

@jackie0675 2 жыл бұрын

I loved the book and thoroughly enjoyed listening to your discussion. I, too, found the ending to be "of its time". I loved all the passages describing the house and garden. Thank you for the Comfort Book Club. I would love to be in with a chance of winning such a lovely copy of 84 Charing Cross Road.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

So glad you enjoyed it! The descriptions of the house and garden were indeed beautiful xxx

@serena432 2 жыл бұрын

I enjoyed this video so much. I didn't read the book China Court, but I plan on buying the book soon. I can't wait to give the lovely recipe a try. I just ordered Period Piece. You both are as beautiful as a gorgeous summers day!

@paulamoreshead1694 2 жыл бұрын

I thoroughly enjoyed your discussion of China Court especially since you brought out some points that I hadn't realized when reading it myself. I have to be honest and say that the back and forth between different periods of time was very confusing and frustrating for me at times, but I had gotten the hang of it better by the end! 84 Charing Cross is one of my favorites, so I'm looking forward to reading it again and hoping to win a copy!

@ruthwilson6524 2 жыл бұрын

I ‘d love to win 84 Charing Cross road. Discussing a book enriches our memory and experience of it. It’s been lovely to hear your discussion and read everyone’s comments. My mum and I both enjoy Rumer Godden’s books. My first experience was reading one of her children’s books “ Miss Happiness and Miss Flower” when I was about nine.

@janetpinhorn803 2 жыл бұрын

Ladies...You've done it again! What a delightful video. I did find China Court a little difficult to "get into" but, after a while, it flowed so much that I couldn't put it down. I am looking forward to the Sept. read, but to be honest...84 Charing Cross Road is one of my all time favorites. The first time I went to London, the only real destination I had in mind was that location. If you would consider entering my name for the Slightly Foxed edition, that would be lovely.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much, Janet! I'm so glad you got caught up in the book in the end. 84 Charing Cross Road is a wonderful story, and yes you'll certainly be in the draw! xxx

@lomazowr1 2 жыл бұрын

Finally the day is here,I’ve already made new friends from all over the world who have joined your book and this is really special for me .Thanks to you Miranda and your mom for this lovely Comfort Book Club❤️📚

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Yay! I am so happy to hear that! It’s lovely to spread some bookish joy around the world & it’s been lovely seeing some of the posts on Instagram 📚💕

@yumiari2469 2 жыл бұрын

What an amazing start to the Comfort Book Club. I only just managed to finish the last chapter this afternoon and I couldn’t agree more with the jarring ending which threw me off a bit but I’m so glad both you and Donna explained why writers of that time wrote that way. I was fascinated by how Mrs Quin decided to change things up in the garden but keep everything the same in the house. Loved the little snippets from other readers too and all both your discussion about the book. Well done 👏🏽.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much, Yumi! Yes, I loved all the descriptions of the garden too and how much it was Mrs Quin's domain! xxx

@lorrainealba4105 2 жыл бұрын

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I had not heard of the author and will be looking forward to reading many of their other works. My favourite part of the book is the opening 1st and 2nd paragraph. Especially - The sound of the bell came into the house but it did not disturb it. This is lovely to think of the house as a living character. Lovely discussion and ready to read Period Place next. I would love to be entered to win 84 Charing road.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

I adore the opening paragraphs too! They pull you right into the world of the book ❤️ Consider yourself entered 😊📚💕

@lorrainealba4105 2 жыл бұрын

Period piece 🙄🤦‍♀️

@The1christy 2 жыл бұрын

I enjoyed China Court very much, and had trouble putting it down. Listening to you and your mum, I discovered a few things I hadn’t realized. Or maybe I had, but I just flew on. Looking forward to the September read. Would love the giveaway copy of Charing Cross… I love that story, too! ❤️

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

So glad you enjoyed China Court, Christy! Thank you for your comment and I’m looking forward to the September read already xxx

@criselda. 2 жыл бұрын

I have read 84 Charing Cross Road 2 years ago and loved it. It started my love for books in the epistolary style. I have read it through an e-book and would love to have a physical copy especially a Slighty Foxed edition 🥰 thank you for bringing back the book club with your Mum Donna 🤗

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you! It’s fun to have brought it back 📚💫

@kathleencraine7335 2 жыл бұрын

Wonderful discussion and the recorded thoughts of 2 other readers was a great addition. You have a wonderful way in bringing out the important essences of a book, and do it so effortlessly. I did not get a chance to read "China Court" this month, but I have decided to try "A Fugue in Time" first (although my U.S. library titles it "Take Three Tenses"--hope it's the same book!) and then read "China Court." Looking forward to "Period Piece" and I would love to have my own copy of "84, Charing Cross Road." Read it many years ago, loved it and look forward to a re-read.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Yes, 'Take Three Tenses' is the US title for 'A Fugue in Time.' Great idea to start there and build up to China Court! I think you'll notice how her writing style progresses xxx

@emily_robinson 2 жыл бұрын

I just finished "China Court" yesterday and was so looking forward to your discussion of it today and enjoyed listening to all your thoughts today while having my own cup of tea.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

That's wonderful and sounds so cosy! Thank you xxx

@Podheim 2 жыл бұрын

I thoroughly enjoyed this discussion! Thank you very much to you both. You both have such a delightfully engaging way of speaking to us! I really appreciated your perspective on the closing scene between Peter and Tracy, which was the only part of the book I didn’t like. It felt so at odds with the rest of the book, but you have helped me to take it as it is meant to be written, rather than a foreshadowing of a life of domestic violence for Tracy 😀. I loved the book connection with Eliza, particularly when you realise that the descriptions of the illustrations in the book of hours you have been reading are from her notebooks. In short, I really loved the book and am grateful to you for choosing it. I read it on my Kindle, but I shall definitely look out for a proper copy of it as I know I will read it again. I shall certainly be joining in with future reads. The Comfort book club is aptly named, not only because the books are such lovely comfort reads, but because it is such a comfort to find so many like-minded readers out there! I won’t enter the giveaway (though thank you so much for doing it) as I have ordered a different copy of the book already, so would rather it went to someone who doesn’t have it and wants to join in. Thank you again and I am looking forward to next month’s discussion. Best regards, Paula (Podheim on Instagram)

@e.danielle880 2 жыл бұрын

Very nice discussion. I ended up really enjoying this book! I thought the tense changes were clever, and the way she wrote the characters (including the house of course) kept me captivated to keep reading. I'm very glad you started with this book because I don't think I would have picked it up otherwise, to be honest. It's very different from what I usually read, but I was pleasantly surprised!

@faithwentworth7906 2 жыл бұрын

I would never have picked up this book either. This is why I love book clubs!

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

So glad it proved to be an unexpected pleasure!

@nicky7ist 2 жыл бұрын

That was a really comprehensive discussion. The slap analysis was interesting. I do find that some Georgette Heyer novels have violent incidents towards the herione. Romance books up to the 70's or 80's had this dominant male feel to them as well. Keep up the good work!

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Yes, I was surprised by the end of The Grand Sophy as I hadn't remembered that aspect to the proposal scene at all! As Sophy had just shot someone though, the melodrama certainly wasn't all one sided!!

@diamondslashranch 2 жыл бұрын

This is so lovely! I’m so glad I’ve found your channel. I’m now working my way through you older videos and my book buy list is comfortably longer now😂. Enjoy you and your mother very much.

@foxedfolios 2 жыл бұрын

Loved everything about this discussion - thanks so much Miranda and Donna. 😊 I'm just wondering if either of you have read Nora Lofts? Several of her books have houses/locations as a central unifying character - The Suffolk Trilogy (Beginning with The Town House) and Bless This House are two examples. Anyway, this was great and already looking forward to the next one. 😊💛

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much! I haven't read any Nora Lofts I don't think, but apparently Mum read them as a teenager and really enjoyed them! xxx

@heathertribe806 4 күн бұрын

Hi Miranda and Donna! I just finished reading China Court and even though it is two years after this discussion just wanted to come on here and say thank you so much for helping me clarify that ending! I wasn't sure what to make of it! This was such a great comprehensive discussion that I can't find anything to add except just to say how much I loved this very first Comfort Book Club discussion and I thought the recipe and the quick cooking insert was just wonderful! 💜

@jennywarren7980 2 жыл бұрын

I so enjoy you and your Mom! Thanks for sharing your time together with me❤️

@GinaStanyerBooks 2 жыл бұрын

This was lovely. Thank you so much both of you for putting this together for us. I struggled a little bit in the beginning of the story, as I was getting used to the tense changes and the generations all smooshed together on the page . But once I figured out what she was doing I absolutely fell in love with the story. She has such a beautiful writing style, and all the domestic details really speak to me. I agree that the wedding night scene was odd and jarring, and it just seemed a bit out of character. I am so inspired by your living such a beautiful life, reading such charming books, and sharing that with all of us. Thank you! (Donna please start up your own channel! It’d be great!)

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much, Gina! I really delighted in all the domestic details too. Lol, my mum is appalled at the idea of starting her own channel - she really doesn't do social media! But it's lovely that she agrees to be a guest on mine, and it's something we can enjoy together 😊

@carolines9943 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Miranda and Donna, I loved this book right up until the last couple of pages which really shocked me and I couldn't understand why she wrote them, it felt very jarring. Having listened to you both explain it makes a little more sense now! I particularly loved the descriptions of the house, in fact I think the house was my favourite character. Im looking forward to reading 84 Charing Cross Road and I am picking up Period Piece from the library on Tuesday.Thank you for this lovely book club. xx

@gilliankelly611 2 жыл бұрын

What a great video with you and your lovely mum. 84 Charing Cross Road looks like another great read x

@elizabethmoloney6967 2 жыл бұрын

Sadly couldn't join live as I was with my mum (who is 92) - she was not reading the same book as I couldn't find a copy of China Court in large print for her. But we had a little discussion about each of our books, as I discussed China Court and the lovely descriptions that were written, mum recalled her time in the Glasgow tenament of her birth and her aunt who sewed all her own clothes, the stitching my mum learnt from Aunt Margaret and and the relationship she had with her aunts, her grandmother and older brother. We definitely went off at a tangent but the impetus was China Court. Thank you both Miranda and Donna for the book club and sharing and discussing. 🥰

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Oh this video wasn't live, so you didn't miss anything! The messages included from other readers were pre-recorded. I'm so pleased that 'China Court' inspired such a lovely chat with your own Mum and learning a bit more of your own family xxx

@VP-tg8kd 2 жыл бұрын

I love your videos, they are so charming and warm, they have really helped me to stay sane over the last year or so. The relationship you have with your Mum shines out of the screen, as much as all the lovely books. I would love to win a copy of 84 Charing Cross Road book, it is on my TBR. Will be going over to the Comfort Book Club on Instagram. - sounds fabulous X

@lauragranda-mateu5810 2 жыл бұрын

I’ll cherish many beautiful passages from this read (Minna’s second winter at China Court; Mrs. Quin trembling fingers picking the snowdrops; the smells of the house, the sounds of the house, the feeling of the house, the cats…), but… above all, I wish I could ever say to someone -using a confident firm tone: “I think you should remember the apricot tree.” 😌 . looking forward to reading ‘84 Charing Cross Road’!

@janestuchbury6393 2 жыл бұрын

I'm so glad to have found this lovely channel! A group for true book lovers - I love Rumer Godden & can't wait to revist '84, Charing Cross Road ' I'd love to win a beautiful new copy as its so long since I last read it & those editions look lovely, a gorgeous binding to contain all those precious words. Thank you so much.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

So glad you found me! Thank you! Xx

@carosbookcase 2 жыл бұрын

Miranda, it's lovely of you and your mum to hold another giveaway. 84, Charing Cross Road is a book that holds a special place in my heart as I played the role of Cecily in a stage production. Just community theatre, but it was great fun!

@louisetate5296 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Miranda and Donna, thank you for reading those lovely extracts from the book and reminding me of them Watching your review, I felt glad I wasn't the only one who was constantly popping back and forth to the family tree to find out who was who, starting to think I was a complete dunce!! 😂 Poor Eliza, all the local children thought she was a witch, because they had caught her many times visiting the graveyard at night, appearing as if she was casting spells when she was in fact, showing the deceased Jeremy Baxter the books she had collected at his graveside! She hadn't anyone else to share her passion for valuable books, she seemed a very lonely, misunderstood character. Glad she was instrumental in saving the house! Yes that ending was very odd, I supposed there is nothing like giving someone a slap to break the ice is there? . I thought they only used to give women a slap in the face in the olden days, if they thought they were hysterical🙄 just imagine what would happen if she really cheesed him off! Really looking forward to Period Piece, I cheated and looked at the illustrations and they are gorgeous!

@kimberlygaulin9807 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for being such a balm of joy over the past year. Much like All Creatures Great & Small, I love tuning in to the two of you and your literary magic to escape! I cannot wait to read 84 Charing Cross Road next month.

@lorimiller854 2 жыл бұрын

I loved China Court and am a new Rumer Godden fan. Comfort Book Club is the perfect name, because this read was so comforting. So beautifully written with such depth. I'll be thinking about various elements and characters for a very long time. Thank you both! ❤ I appreciate all the time, care, and thought you both put into this endeavor. Looking forward to next month! I'll get reading. I would love to be entered into the drawing for 84 Charing Cross Road.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Lori! It’s a book I’ll be thinking about for a long time too ❤️

@pennyboylan1713 Жыл бұрын

I can’t thank you enough for introducing me to China Court. I simply adored it and couldn’t put it down. The device of presenting the entire family past and present, moving up and down and in and out of the family tree, giving us glimpses of the characters and how the story evolves was masterful. It was so evocative of the house and the beloved garden and reminded me of my own grandmother’s house with it’s smell of furniture polish; a very special place from my childhood. What a clever way of making the seemingly wasted life of Eliza into the gift of Tracy being able to keep China Court going. A gem of a book. I can highly recommend Coromandel Sea Change as well.

@MirandaMills Жыл бұрын

I'm so glad you enjoyed China Court so much, Penny! That's lovely to hear. I too loved that Eliza's life counted for so much in the end xxx

@hilaryking6154 2 жыл бұрын

So enjoyed discussion of China Court. My copy of book hasn't arrived yet but I am looking forward to reading it. I read 84 Charing Cross Road a few years ago and have also watched the film. I don't own a copy of the book but would be so pleased to win this one.

@susanwalsh7896 2 жыл бұрын

Firstly thank you so much Miranda and Donna for this bookclub (it is exactly what I need at the moment being once again in lockdown here in Victoria). I loved this book, my first Rumer Godden, it was amazing. From the very beginning I was hooked and read it two sittings. Like Manderley in Rebecca and Sarah Water's Little Stranger, I love it when a house is an almost living character in the story (would love more recommendations like this). Loved all the characters (good and bad) Bella reminded my of an Austen (nasty but hilarious) character. It's left me feeling like I need another book, I wanted more of Damaris, and what happened to her after she was married and left for America? I want more of Minna and Groundsel, how did Anne go in Szechwan lol. Eliza was definitely my favourite though. Can't wait for next months 'Period Piece'. Thank you again, your videos are like balm.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much! So glad you loved China Court - I know what you mean about wanting to hear much more about many of the characters! And I agree that Bella could have been in an Austen novel - all those interfering relations were very Austenesque! Looking forward to next month's read-a-long too 😊 xxx

@sarahbryan2703 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Miranda and Donna for the wonderful discussion! Your videos always brighten my weekends, and I have discovered so many new books, authors, and recipes to try. Most of the books you recommend are new to me; however, “84 Charing Cross Road” is one of my absolute favorites. I’m so looking forward to your book club discussion for this one! Thank you for your content and for the chance to win a lovely edition of “84 Charing Cross Road.”

@pamelakennedy2213 2 жыл бұрын

What a marvellous book club video. I loved hearing the recorded messages too. Keep up the good work. X

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much! xxx

@bronwenjamison2470 2 жыл бұрын

I so enjoyed the book club yesterday. You and your mum provided such a thoughtful discussion It was an excellent pick with which to begin the club. I look forward to next month. I was thinking of passages in the book I really liked and I think my favourite was about how things remain even when "one is stricken" and Mrs. Quinn lists "creature things" such as "drinking good tea from a thin porcelain cup," "the sound of a stream" and of course books - she says " even when one is taking those first steps back, bruised and wounded, one can read certain books." And, of course she includes Jane Austen! Again, thank you both for such a delightful club discussion.

@MirandaMills 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much! I'm very glad you enjoyed it. I love that quote too, and the Jane Austen reference especially pleased me as well 😊 ❤️