Adelaide Bry

Violet Elizabeth Cadell, born Violet Elizabeth Vandyke in Calcutta in 1903, was a British author who also used the pseudonym Harriet Ainsworth. After being raised in India and educated in England, she married Henry Dunlop Raymond Mallock Cadell in 1928, with whom she had two children. The couple later relocated to Portugal in 1960, where she lived out her final years until her passing in 1989.

Cadell authored numerous novels throughout her career, often characterized by light entertainment, social comedy, and romantic themes. Her works frequently explored settings in England, France, Spain, and India, and occasionally incorporated elements of mystery and fantasy. Several of her books received positive reviews for their engaging plots and brisk dialogue, with some even being considered for film adaptations or adapted for television.

Violet Elizabeth Cadell established herself as a prolific writer of light fiction during the 20th century. Her novels, such as 'Last Straw for Harriet' (1947) and 'Gay Pursuit' (1948), were often described as social comedies and light entertainment. Cadell demonstrated versatility by incorporating various genres and settings into her work. 'River Lodge' (1948) and 'Iris in Winter' (1949) were noted for their engaging narratives, while 'Brimstone in the Garden' (1950) offered a humorous take on a ghost story, with one critic praising its amusing spectral character. Her later works, like 'Spring Green' (1953) and 'Crystal Clear' (1953), continued to explore themes of romance and comedy, often set in English locales. 'Around the Rugged Rock' (1954) transported readers to Andalusia for a comedic romance, and 'Money to Burn' (1955) was recommended for its good humor.

As Cadell's career progressed, her novels continued to be well-received for their accessibility and entertainment value. 'The Yellow Brick Road' (1960), which blended suspense and fantasy, was recognized by the American Library Association as an "Interesting Adult Book of 1960 for Young People." She explored family dynamics in 'Six Impossible Things' (1961), which featured the recurring Wayne family. 'The Corner Shop' (1967) garnered praise for its brisk pace and crisp dialogue. Romantic themes remained prominent in works like 'The Golden Collar' (1969), described as a "proper treat." 'The Past Tense of Love' (1970) dealt with themes of reunion, while 'The Friendly Air' (1971) was set in Portugal and characterized as "engaging, fascinating, moving and romantically-mysterious." Even novels identified as "formula fiction" like 'Home for the Wedding' (1972) were noted for their veteran author's specialization in love stories. Later works, including 'The Marrying Kind' (1980) and 'A Lion In the Way' (1982), continued to offer witty tales and were recommended for library collections.

“social comedy of the first order, hilarious, gay and given just the right touch”

“one of the most amusing ghosts it has been my pleasure to meet”

“unexpectedly good light romance of gentry, and Americans, love and mystery, in a remote English village”

“belongs in the category of English feminine comedy”

“If you want to start the New Year off in a spirit of utter good humor, read "Money to Burn".”