As someone far removed from the domestic arts spiritually (a domestic goddess I am not), I am fascinated by those women whose lives and identities have centered around their home and household - and by choice! How can that be enough? How do they fill that achievement- and goal-shaped space that careers occupy for the likes of me? (That sounds patronising but is not intended to be, in the slightest). The concept is so foreign to me that it is akin to an unsolved mystery that continues to fascinate. And Marjorie was a local to me personality who took domestic arts to new heights. I really enjoyed this biography and exploration of Marjorie's life - it is well written, it doesn't shy away from some of the less-than-perfect aspects of the 'good old days' (e.g. domestic abuse) nor does it seek to squeeze what was clearly an multifaceted personality into a very small and clearly defined box. I've met people who knew Marjorie and inevitably people either loved her or hated her. A strong woman. And one who remains an enigma. ( )