The old vicarage : $b A novel

"The Old Vicarage" by Mrs. Hubback is a story set in the 1800s that follows the Duncan family after a big loss. It mainly focuses on Hilary Duncan and her stepmother, Mrs. Duncan, highlighting their life in a countryside Vicarage. The book explores important ideas like faith, family duties, and what it's like to grow up. From the very beginning, the book creates a strong feeling of sadness as it shows the beautiful summer turning dark with worry. Hilary and her stepmother talk deeply about love, duty, and the hard responsibilities that Hilary will have to face when her mother passes away. This conversation shows that Mrs. Duncan is very sick and wants to share her last wishes with Hilary, setting a tone of sadness and deep feelings. This scene introduces Hilary as a kind but new to the world person, hinting at the tough emotional path she will walk as she deals with her mother's passing and her family's tricky relationships.