A Quiet Valley

A novel likely written in the late 19th century. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Wales, the story follows George Rutherford and his wife, Dulcibel, as they embark on a journey that intertwines their lives with that of a young girl named Joan. The book explores themes of parental love, responsibility, and the unexpected intersections of lives in a tranquil yet impactful setting. At the start of the novel, George and Dulcibel are enjoying a wedding trip at a Welsh hotel when they discover a small child named Joan wandering alone by a riverbank. The couple takes the child into their care, leading to a deeper connection with her. As George investigates Joan's background, it becomes apparent that her mother, a troubled woman named Marian, has left her behind due to dire circumstances. The opening chapters set the stage for a heartfelt exploration of familial bonds, sacrifice, and the quest for belonging, as well as the unfolding of Joan's mysterious origins and her relationship with the Rutherfords.