Tell Me I'm Forgiven:
The Story of Forgotten Stars Gwen Farrar & Norah Blaney
by Alison Child

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A fascinating addition to the fields of lesbian biography and theatre history

Gwen Farrar and Norah Blaney were drawn together by mutual desire and astonishing talent and versatility. They became England's first great female musical comedy double act, singing the popular love songs of the 1920s to each other onstage and making dozens of recordings.

They barely disguised the secret of their lesbian partnership, which was to endure across three decades against all the odds. In this vivid biography, their lives are documented in full for the first time.

"I adored this lovely, moving story. Lesbian passion – skilfully evoked – in the 1920s showbiz milieu. Wish I'd been there!" Miriam Margolyes, actor (Harry Potter, Call The Midwife)

"Alison Child has brilliantly evoked the poignancy of nostalgia for those of us with memories of the 'good old days'." Helena Whitbread, researcher and editor, The Secret Diaries of Miss Anne Lister

"A perfect match between biographer and subject. Alison Child does this wonderful duo proud."
Diana Souhami, author, Gluck, The Trials of Radclyffe Hall, Wild Girls

"A story of showbiz chemistry and lesbian love... amazing women!" Peter Bradshaw, film critic

"Fascinating and moving... an important missing piece in the jigsaw of lesbian history."
Dr Jane Traies, author, Now You See Me

"Sumptuously illustrated... true in fact and spirit to a forgotten age." Charles Duff, author of The Lost Summer: The Heyday of the West End Theatre and Charley's Woods: Sex, Sorrow and a Spiritual Quest in Snowdonia

'Tell Me I'm Forgiven' is available now

About the author

Alison Child holds a degree in history from Cambridge University and a masters in research from the University of Brighton. She is the creative director of Behind The Lines Theatre Company and lives with her partner Rosie in Hove.

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