At the Stroke of Nine O’Clock
Description:
London 1949. The lives of three very different women are about to collide.
At the Stroke of Nine O’Clock, the ninth novel from Jane Davis was shortlisted for The Selfies Book Awards 2020.
‘You don’t read a Jane Davis book – you inhabit it. At the Stroke of Nine O’clock is no exception.’ ~ Clare Flynn, author of The Pearl of Penang
Like most working-class daughters, Caroline Wilby is expected to help support her family. Alone in a strange city, she must grab any opportunity that comes her way. Even if that means putting herself in danger.
Star of the silver screen, Ursula Delancy, has just been abandoned by the man she left her husband for. Already hounded by the press, it won’t be long before she’s making headlines for all the wrong reasons.
Patrice Hawtree was once the most photographed debutante of her generation. Now childless and trapped in a loveless marriage, her plans to secure the future of her ancient family home are about to be jeopardised by her husband’s gambling addiction.
Each believes she has already lost in life, not knowing how far she still has to fall.
Six years later, one cause will reunite them: when a young woman commits a crime of passion and is condemned to hang, remaining silent isn’t an option.
“Why do I feel an affinity with Ruth Ellis? I know how certain facts can be presented in such a way that there is no way to defend yourself. Not without hurting those you love.”
”It’s a feminist treatise against men. It’s a battle in the class war against noblesse oblige and inbred rights. It’s a plea for the understanding of women everywhere. It’s all of these things and more.’ ~ Perry Iles
Editorial Reviews

A Historical Novel Society Editor’s Choice
This is the first time I have come across this author, and what a revelation! She writes stunning prose that keeps the pages turning. She understands her women, their faults, and the way they pull together when the chips are down. Some succeed, but too many, like poor Ruth Ellis, fall between the cracks. In this telling, the reader feels that not only should Ruth not have been hanged, but she should never have been found guilty. Highly recommended. Read full review.
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Want to save money? At the Stroke of Nine O’Clock is also included in the value box set, The London Collection.
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Read an interview
In Conversation with JJ Marsh, author of the Beatrice Stubbs series.
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Questions for book clubs
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Prefer audiobooks?
At the Stroke of Nine O’Clock is now available as an audiobook from Saga Egmont, with narration by Bea Holland.
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