For the first 40% of this novel, I really wasn't sure whether I was going to continue, it was very different, both in the way it was written and the story itself, I am so glad I did continue because it really was a lovely love story and the ending was perfect. The story follows the lives of Edie and Theo, along with several other key characters in the years encompassing 1905 through 1924 in Ballarat. It is a different time to now and it was a time of change and a time of war. A lovely story, that seems to meander it's way along, never in a hurry, as is mentioned in the story, these characters are used to waiting.

Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin (Australia), TEEN / MIRA for a copy in return for an honest review

I thought The Art of Preserving Love was difficult to describe. Then I realised, once I’d finished reading the rich and unique tale, that the book’s title describes it beautifully. Preserving love, eternal love which doesn't fade no matter the circumstances, is a major theme throughout. And I mean love in all its forms, not just romantic.

There is romance, of course, but it isn't written in the traditional form. The romance more or less just weaves its way through what I’d probably class as a historical women’s fiction book. At times I was reminded a little of The Dressmaker, only this book isn't quite as dark as I found that. (I must point out I haven’t read that book, only seen the movie.)

At the beginning of the book we are introduced to 19 year old Edie. In 1905 Ballarat, she is in love with Theo who plays the organ at her church, even though most believe she is too plain to catch his eye. From here, the book covers Edie’s growth from a spoilt self absorbed girl whose only care is the length of her skirt, to 1924 when Edie is a self assured independent woman who has sacrificed much for love.

Langton doesn’t centre completely on Edie and Theo, however. She introduces seemingly random characters and focuses on their stories intently until she manages to pull the threads together and we eventually understand each individual's inclusion and impact upon the novel’s plot.

I liked all the female characters, especially Edie’s maid, Beth, and Theo’s mother, Lilly. However, I didn’t feel I became as attached to the male characters. In fact, if there is one flaw in the book it would be that I’m not sure if I was ever particularly fond of Theo. There was something about him I found quite often unappealing.

Many historical events are covered within the 1905 to 1924 timeframe - the most obvious
being WW1. I thought Langton was strongest when describing the war and its lasting effects. This not only included the returning soldiers and their shellshock/PTSD but the way the war changed society in general, the political climate and such things as the feminist movement.

The institution of marriage is comprehensively studied also. Divorce, sex before marriage, forced marriages, marriage for convenience or religious reasons, de facto relationships, extramarital affairs, and same sex relationship are all brought up at some stage. It’s interesting how some ideas have changed considerably and yet some are still exactly as they were in the early 20th century.

Another interesting subject Langton included was the medical advice given at the time. True story: My great aunt had a (slight) birth defect and was basically left for dead by the medical profession around the same time this novel started, so the idea of the character Gracie being written off by the doctors is not unrealistic.

The medical profession and society’s ignorance when it comes to dealing with mental health has probably only improved by a fraction sadly. However, I’m happy to announce that no one suggests drinking a wine laced with cocaine anymore. I’m sure it sounded like a good idea at the time… And I won’t mention what they wanted to feed a newborn baby instead of a mother’s breast milk!

Being set in Ballarat gave Langton the chance to also focus on Australia’s early struggles when it came to workers’ rights. I’m not sure if Langton lives in the area or has just researched it thoroughly but she certainly made the large country town come alive. In fact, the book has a very Australian feel to it. Perfect for an Australia Day weekend.

Highly recommend.

4 ½ out of 5