Episode 1

Ten years after the end of the Second World War, Betty is married to a troubled veteran with whom she shares two children. Her secretarial wages keep the lights on and the drink flowing - but Betty craves complete freedom from domestic responsibilities.

Read by Elysia Welch
Written by Agnes Owens
Abridged by Gaynor Macfarlane
Produced by Eilidh McCreadie

Agnes Owens was born in 1926 and wrote in the spaces afforded by earning a living and running a household. After attending a creative writing evening course, her first novel 'Gentlemen of the West' was published in 1984. This was followed by five short novels and three short story collections, all critically acclaimed. She died in 2014. The works of Agnes Owens are republished in 2026 to mark the centenary year of a brilliant, compelling author who is finally receiving the attention she deserves.