Bad Blood: A Memoir

Dive into the captivating and darkly humorous world of Lorna Sage's *Bad Blood: A Memoir*, a critically acclaimed and internationally bestselling account of her unconventional upbringing and escape from the confines of post-World War II Britain. This 10th Anniversary edition invites a new generation of readers to experience Sage's unflinching honesty and sharp wit as she dissects three generations of family history, marked by scandalous weddings, complex relationships, and a pervasive sense of societal constraint. Lorna Sage, celebrated literary critic and author, fearlessly lays bare her childhood in a remote Welsh border town, a place seemingly untouched by the progress of the 20th century. Far from a nostalgic reminiscence, *Bad Blood* paints a vivid and often shocking portrait of a family wrestling with poverty, infidelity, and the stifling expectations of their time. Sage's narrative pulls no punches, revealing the secrets and eccentricities that simmered beneath the surface of her seemingly ordinary life. She explores her relationship with her charismatic but unreliable grandfather, a figure who both fascinated and troubled her, and her own burgeoning sense of independence in a world that offered limited opportunities for women. More than just a personal story, *Bad Blood* is a poignant reflection on the social and cultural landscape of mid-20th century Britain. Sage masterfully weaves together personal anecdotes with insightful observations about class, gender, and the changing role of women in society. Her writing is both lyrical and incisive, drawing the reader into her world with its rich details and unforgettable characters. This memoir stands out from others in its genre thanks to Sage's keen intellect and her ability to analyze her own experiences with a critical eye. Comparisons to Frank McCourt's *Angela's Ashes* and Tobias Wolff's *This Boy's Life* are apt, but Sage's voice is uniquely her own. She brings a literary sensibility to her storytelling, crafting a narrative that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally resonant. This is a memoir that stays with you long after you've turned the final page, prompting reflection on your own family history and the forces that have shaped your own life. Winner of the prestigious Whitbread Biography Award, *Bad Blood* is a testament to the power of memory and the enduring allure of a well-told story. This edition, published by Harper Perennial, offers a fresh opportunity to discover why the *New York Times Book Review* lauded it as a book that "fills us with wonder and gratitude," solidifying Lorna Sage's place as one of the most important and insightful voices in contemporary literature. Perfect for readers interested in biography, memoir, literary criticism, women's studies, British history, and anyone who appreciates masterful storytelling. Explore the complex tapestry of family, history, and personal liberation in *Bad Blood*.