Small Pleasures by Clare Chambers

Such a quiet book that handles some hard topics. Jean is a reporter who takes on an interesting story of a woman claiming that her child was the result of a virgin birth. Jean is skeptical as is the rest of the newsroom but agrees to research and report the findings. As she gets to know Gretchen, her daughter Margaret and current husband Howard, Jean starts to like these people and begins to root for them. Test after test is run and Jean interviews as many people who were at the hospital around the same time as Gretchen where the supposed miracle conception took place. Jean could be called a dutiful spinster living with her crotchety frail mother but when she is included in the Tidbury family's lives Jean starts coming out of her shell. This story takes place in 1950's London, which means they did not have the precise DNA tests they do now and society judged women harshly who had children out of wedlock. Achingly sweet, this story is of good people trying to deny themselves their true self by trying to do the right thing. For readers who love a good historical story with a deep character dive touched with sweetness.  4 stars