An Experiment in Love

Carmel McBain, the only daughter of Irish-Catholic parents, is driven by her mother's ambition to rise above their struggling mill town life. As Carmel earns a scholarship to a local convent school and later secures a place at London University, she embarks on a transformative journey that brings both achievement and isolation. This coming-of-age tale explores themes of social class, family ties, faith, and the personal sacrifices inherent in striving for success, all crafted with Hilary Mantel's signature wit and insight.