Helen — Georgette Heyer

A contemporary romance set in the changing times before and after the world war, and protagoniced by Helen, a young girl with antiquated Victorian values, who does not approve the new Edwardian society. Admired by several suitors, she does not think she can marry a modern man.

One of the four "contemporary" novels Georgette Heyer had suppressed.

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"I don't want her to be able to pass senseless examinations, or to waste her time over subjects that won't do her a bit of good."

The birth of Helen Marchant was attended by tragedy.

Going on to be raised by her eccentric, doting father, she never wanted for anything, and happily nursed her ambitions of becoming a writer.

But with the advent of war, Helen's ordered, privileged life is turned upside down -- and never quite returns to its former serenity. Now grappling with a new reality, Helen must also grapple with the affections of two very different men in a world she little understands...and then, tragedy strikes once more.