Grace and Marion are sisters, saying goodbye to their childhood friend, Alfred, who has just come of age after growing up as a ward to the girls’ father, Dr. Jeddler. Alfred promises to come back someday to marry Marion when he has finished medical school and made his fortune. The years pass, but their happy plans take a sorrowful turn, and it will take all their courage to survive the battle of life.
The best part of this book, by far, was the hilarious servant-girl, Clemency! She is awkward and kind, gentle and sweet, clumsy and odd, and deliciously funny. I was actually laughing out loud in public while reading about her antics!

Nobody but Dickens can balance such serious and funny material in the same story. The plot is quite full for such a short book, and I was completely surprised by the ending! I like that a lot of the story is told from the outside perspectives of side characters commenting to one another on the doings of the main characters. It gave a depth to the plot, and made for some interesting character studies.

I adore the sweet romances in this book, and I was so touched by the love of this close family, and their affection for one another. They are always ready to sacrifice for the other person and do all they can to make the other person happy. It’s very emotional and precious.

Overall, another perfect Dickens book that I thoroughly enjoyed!