Garthowen: A Story of a Welsh Homestead

"Garthowen: A Story of a Welsh Homestead" by Allen Raine is a book set in the late 1800s that tells the tale of a close-knit Welsh farming community. The main character, Gethin Owens, a youthful sailor, makes his return to his family's homestead, and the story also follows Morva Lloyd, a girl living with a guardian after surviving a shipwreck; their destinies become linked through life at Garthowen. The story starts in a busy seaport in South Wales, showing Gethin's friendly connection with his landlady, Mrs. Parry. Gethin thinks about his difficult relationship many years ago with his father that made him leave his home and the strong feelings he still has, particularly for young Morva, who used to have great affection for him. Later, the story moves to the homestead, where Morva is shown as a hardworking person, and is loved by everyone at Garthowen. The book explores important ideas like returning home, the strong bonds of family, and longing for the past for both Gethin and the other characters, crafting a detailed image of life within this Welsh town.