The Testing of Rose Alleyn

Vivien Freeman's atmospheric novel brings late Victorian England hauntingly to life in the mind of the reader. In this beautifully written, gripping and deeply perceptive romance, we explore the choices facing an independent-minded woman at a time when women struggled for self-determination.

At the beginning of the twentieth century, young Rose Alleyn has escaped a life in domestic service and works in a bookshop owned by the charismatic Leonard Pritchard. She enjoys strong female friendships and says that she will never marry.
Her relationship with Leonard deepens, awakening her fears about the fate of women. When unexpected trouble strikes Rose must throw off the shackles that were imposed on women by male-dominated, Victorian society, draw on her courage, and act.