A Victorian's Inheritance (Large print paperback)

Discover the hidden stories that shape us—begin your journey with A Victorian’s Inheritance a moving exploration of family history, resilience, and the legacies we carry. Be inspired to uncover the connections that link your own past to the present.

A signed copy of this book is available to customers in the UK, perfect for gifting or adding a personal touch to your collection.

Colour large print paperback 10 x 8 inch (254 mm x 203 mm). 193 illustrations, 568 endnotes, professional index, paper 100gsm.

A window into Victorian lives—and what it means for ours

What psychological inheritance have you received from your ancestors?



We inherit more than heirlooms. The struggles, triumphs, and even traumas of our forebears can be handed down through generations, shaping who we are.

In A Victorian’s Inheritance, family historian and former counsellor Helen Parker-Drabble brings to life the working-class world of her Victorian grandfather, uncovering how his mother’s hardships, bereavements and alcoholism in 19th-century England left their indelible mark on him. Through a unique blend of family history, social analysis, and a groundbreaking approach, she reveals how addiction, grief, and mental health challenges can influence future generations.

This deeply personal yet relatable book invites you to reflect on your own family’s untold stories. Whether you’re an avid genealogist, a lover of Victorian history, or simply curious about how your ancestors’ lives have shaped your own, A Victorian’s Inheritance will inspire you to discover the hidden legacies of your family—and better understand yourself and your relations.

Read a sample here

Reviews

This easy-to-read ground-breaking book changed the way I think about my ancestors and living family — JENNY, UK

"I found A Victorian's Inheritance fascinating. I love the rich detail of life in a rural area in Victorian England." — GAIL DIXON (AUTHOR AND REGULAR CONTRIBUTOR TO WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? MAGAZINE)

"I've always tried to think of my ancestors in relation to what was happening at the time, but your book is helping me to see them as real people with highs and lows in their own lives, and how this impacted on subsequent generations. We are not *just* a product of our parents, are we? So much more to consider." — HELEN B, UK

"Excellent. A revelation" — JERRY, UK

"A Fascinating and Thought-Provoking Read Helen's book works on many levels. It's a moving, true family story and a fascinating observation of social history. But it's also an exploration of who we are, and to what extent that is predetermined by our 'psychological inheritance'. The book is thought-provoking, well-written, meticulously researched and packed with intriguing revelations and photographs. Whether you have an interest in Helen's family (and I did not, at the outset) there is much to discover and enjoy. I'm looking forward to the next two parts. Thoroughly recommended." — AUTHOR ALEX DUNLEVY

"I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author's understanding of mental health issues and her interest in epigenetics shines through and helps us to understand where the main character (Walter) is coming from and what forms him. I have immense compassion for his mother - who, had she been born in more recent times, may have received better support. The book clearly illustrates the Victorian attitudes towards women and the general culture The author has obviously spent much time researching her subject but has also written from the heart. The book contains lots of lovely photographs and copies of documents which further enrich the reader experience. I highly recommend this, even if you have never thought of reading this kind of book before now. You won't be disappointed." — CAROL, UK

"This book has given me a fascinating insight into the lives of my ancestors. A whole new side to genealogy that I had not considered has inspired me to look at some of my own ancestors in a new light." — JILL, UK

A Victorian's Inheritance by Helen Parker-Drabble

Walter Parker & his family outside the engineer's cottage, The Tank Yard, 1896.  

The Tank Yard in the Duke of Bedford's village of Thorney, Cambridgeshire, England, 1896.

Walter Parker (standing at the centre) as an apprentice working for the Smith Brothers of Thorney, c1902.  

Walter Parker, aged 21 years, studio photograph, c1906.

The Allan Line’s RMS Ionian and SS Commonwealth at the landing stage, Liverpool. Original postcard printed c1902.