Love and Other Consolation Prizes: A Novel

"An evocative, heartfelt, beautifully crafted story that shines a light on a fascinating, tragic bit of forgotten history."— Kristin Hannah, author of The Nightingale

For twelve-year-old Ernest Young, a charity student at a boarding school, the chance to go to the World's Fair feels like a gift. But only once he's there, amid the exotic exhibits, fireworks, & Ferris wheels, does he discover that he is the one who is actually the prize. The half-Chinese orphan is astounded to learn he will be raffled off—a healthy boy "to a good home."

The winning ticket belongs to the flamboyant madam of a high-class brothel, famous for educating her girls. There, Ernest becomes the new houseboy & befriends Maisie, the madam's precocious daughter, & a bold scullery maid named Fahn. Their friendship & affection form the first real family Ernest has ever known—& against all odds, this new sporting life gives him the sense of home he’s always desired.

But as the grande dame succumbs to an occupational hazard & their world of finery begins to crumble, all three must grapple with hope, ambition, & first love.

Fifty years later, in the shadow of Seattle’s second World’s Fair, Ernest struggles to help his ailing wife reconcile who she once was with who she wanted to be, while trying to keep family secrets hidden from their grown-up daughters.

Against a rich backdrop of post-Victorian vice, suffrage, & celebration, Love & Other Consolations is an enchanting tale about innocence & devotion—in a world where everything, & everyone, is for sale.

“All the charm & heartbreak of Hotel on the Corner of Bitter & Sweet . . . Based on a true story, Love & Other Consolation Prizes will warm your soul.”— Martha Hall Kelly, author of Lildac Girls.