Berta Ruck
A land-girl's love story
"A Land-Girl's Love Story" by Berta Ruck is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young woman named Joan Matthews, who finds herself disillusioned after her love interest, Captain Harry Markham, fails to say goodbye before leaving for war. Devastated by his apparent betrayal, Joan grapples with feelings of loss and uncertainty about her future, leading her to consider a drastic change in her life. The book explores themes of love, personal growth, and the roles of women in wartime. The opening of the novel introduces Joan as she navigates the emotional turmoil caused by Harry's departure. After receiving the scathing news from a friend about Harry's new acquaintance, Joan sinks into despair, feeling overwhelmed by her stagnant office job and longing for something different. A chance letter from Richard Wynn, a long-forgotten suitor from her past, proposing marriage, further complicates her emotions. Amidst this personal crisis, she encounters a passionate call for women to join the Land Army, prompting her to question her purpose and ultimately leading her to toss a coin to decide her fate—stay in her troubled life in London or embrace the adventure of farming and work in the countryside. The narrative sets the stage for Joan's transformation as she embarks on a new chapter of life filled with unexpected encounters and potential for love.