Lucy Odell
Laurie's warm but partially protected mother, whom he loves while concealing important parts of himself.
The book
Who they are in the book
Spoiler-freeLucy wants Laurie's safety and happiness but receives the careful version of his life that he believes she can accept.
Their affection shows that concealment can coexist with genuine family love.
How the book draws them
- AppearanceShe is a well-kept middle-aged English woman.
- DressA 1940 dress and coat reflect conventional respectability.
- ExpressionWarmth is accompanied by understandable anxiety.
- FamilyShe has rebuilt a household with Gareth after Michael's death.
She remains married to Gareth and part of Laurie's family world.
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