Peter Davies' beloved chronicle of the Doncaster Belles is set to return to bookshelves in a new edition, bringing this classic of women's football literature to a fresh audience. Originally published by Mandarin in 1997, this upcoming release promises to introduce a new generation to one of football's most compelling stories.
Davies, the acclaimed author of All Played Out, captured the essence of the legendary Doncaster Belles in the original work, establishing it as a masterpiece of sports journalism. His immersive account follows a unique group of women who dominated one of women's football's most successful periods, playing not for glory or riches, but for the pure love of the game.
The book's enduring appeal lies in Davies' ability to paint a vivid portrait of life both on and off the pitch. From industrial estate playing fields to South Yorkshire nightclubs, he documents a world where talent meets earthly humour, where determination faces off against adversity. The author's keen eye for detail brings to life characters who transcend the sport itself, creating an intimate portrait of female friendship and solidarity.
As the Yorkshire Post noted in its review of the original edition, this is "that rarest of sports books—a cracking good read that will appeal to the reader without the slightest interest in sport." This upcoming edition promises to maintain that broad appeal while speaking to contemporary audiences about timeless themes of community, passion, and perseverance.
Davies' unpretentious writing style perfectly matches his subjects' straightforward nature. He captures the distinctive spirit of South Yorkshire and its people, preserving a crucial moment in women's football history when the sport stood between its amateur roots and its professional future.
The timing of this new edition couldn't be more relevant. As women's football continues its journey toward greater recognition and professional status, "I Lost My Heart to the Belles" serves as both a historical document and a contemporary inspiration. It reminds us how far the sport has come while highlighting the enduring spirit that drives it forward.
For readers discovering the Belles for the first time or revisiting their remarkable story, this new edition promises to enchant and inspire. It's more than just a sports book—it's a celebration of determination, friendship, and the beautiful game, as relevant today as when it was first published.
The return of this classic work will undoubtedly introduce Davies' masterful storytelling to a new audience while reminding long-time fans why they fell in love with the Belles in the first place. Whether you're a football enthusiast or simply appreciate compelling human stories, this upcoming edition deserves a place on your reading list.
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Published: UnknownPrice: £UnknownPaperback: UnknownISBN-13: 9781840185225Dimensions: 234 x 156 (mm)
