Miss Marks in this one is a wonderful character and is truly what could be considered quintessentially English. Miss Marks is poor, but not needy; she works hard to take care of herself and has a stiff upper lip. She is tough, but kind and looks out for others. She knows when to take charge if needed.

Enough with Miss Buncle. Sometimes a trilogy is just a book too far. I enjoyed Miss Buncle’s Book and Miss Buncle Married, but this one lacks the charm and spontaneity of those two, doesn't seem to have any sort of narrative arc, and the characters and dialogue are unconvincing. It feels rushed – perhaps her publisher pressurised her into writing yet another chronicle of Miss B to cash in on the success of the previous books. It’s not bad – just not good. Disappointing.