Violet to Vita: The Letters of Violet Trefusis to Vita Sackville-West, 1910-1921 Book

This book is based upon the letter's sent to Vita Sackville West, written by Violet Trefusis (Mrs Keppel's Daughter) it pertains to a very famous or should that be infamous affair the two conducted between 1918 - 1920.

I discovered this book in a wonderful second hand book shop in Gloucester, I remember walking down a tiny alley and suddenly being in the midst of this vast hidden shop, very appropriate with the tone of the book I purchased.

I didn't really know too much about their story, other than things my Mother had told me.

The two had known each other as children, Violet had always been infatuated with Vita, and gradually with time the relationship changed, Vita was however happily married to Harold Nicholson, a prominent political whom also had homosexual tendencies. They both loved each other madly, but the pull of Violet at times could be too much.

As I mentioned this book comprises of the letters that Violet sent to Vita. Vita kept all of her letters whereas alas Violet destroyed hers along with all her diaries. The book therefore places Violet's letters alongside Vita's memoirs - being able to tell both sides of the tale of Violet and Julian, Vitas persona. 

The book shows us a lost world of hidden lives bewilderment and the power of true love. So strong it lead them to do the most extraordinary things. It compliments 'Portrait Of A Marriage' very well, a fascinating read.