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An ARC copy of this book was provided to me in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.
MY REVIEW:
I adore how Williams’ always does an impeccable job of creating strong female characters that don’t let expectations or society beat them down.
I have always been fascinated with the 1920’s around the world. It was a time of self-reflection, struggle and determination for people. Meet Me at the Clock takes place in Vancouver, Canada during the year 1927 and focuses on two sisters that have started a career working at the new illustrious Hotel Hamilton.
Their mother has passed away and their father is working all the time, but even then they struggle to make ends meet. Having both girls working helps to keep food on the table, but the older sister Louisa is now facing the challenge of losing herself – or at least who she thinks she is. She wants to pursue her dreams of being an actress, but when catty girls that she works with start slinging her name in the mud and implying that she’s a bit “loose” and “too friendly” with all the boys, she worries about her reputation.
A period piece that really reflects the time, hones in on challenges that women face in society, and ultimately about following our dreams. The story of these two sisters really lifts my spirits and reminds me of what’s important in life.
GET IT HERE:
Step into the opulent world of The Hotel Hamilton, where the chandelier sparkles while a maid’s aspirations fade into the woodwork.
Vancouver, Canada, 1927. A hotel maid’s duty is to never be seen. That’s no problem for Clara, who finds safety in her station. But for her sister, Louisa, it’s cold outside the limelight.
Clara is content being an obliging working girl, but she doesn’t feel worthy of the leadership responsibilities the hotel matron seems intent to thrust upon her. Torn between the unspoken limitations of her social standing and the demands of a fast-changing world, Clara is paralyzed by her fear of stepping out of line.
Louisa, an aspiring actress, is grateful for her employment at the prestigious hotel, but the feeling that she is meant for more haunts her as she sleepwalks through her days. Though Louisa’s ambitious nature yearns for a life in the theatre, she hasn’t auditioned in months. When she finally steps back into the spotlight, she brings her demons along with her, unable to forget what happened the last time she was on stage.
Already challenged with holding their family together, the sisters face the limits of their bond when prejudice and cruelty rear their dark heads. With Clara trapped in her comfortable cocoon and Louisa terrified of repeating the past, the sisters must learn from each other in order to stand against injustice and chart their own path through life.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
A writer from a young age, Tanya E Williams loves to help a reader get lost in another time, another place through the magic of books. History continues to inspire her stories and her insightful view into the human condition deepens her character’s experiences and propels them on their journey. Ms. Williams’ favourite tales, speak to the reader’s heart, making them smile, laugh, cry, and think.
Adventures in Literature 
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