Today, I'm delighted to welcome back dear author friend and brilliant historical novelist, Nancy Jardine. I'm sharing my review of her new release, Tailored Truths, the second instalment in her gripping Silver Sampler series set in the Victorian era, in Scotland. It's not my usual era to read about, but I know I'm in for a reading treat with Nancy's new book. Read on!
Tailored Truths is currently on blog tour with The Coffee Pot Book Club. Find fascinating historical posts, enticing excerpts, great author interviews, and fabulous reviews HERE!
Tailored Truths
Silver Sampler Series, Book #2
Nancy Jardine
Review:
We're heading to Scotland in the mid 19th century, at a time of great change in work practices and production – but not necessarily for women workers!
Young Margaret returns, to settle temporarily with her friend Jessie, though not for long, until Jessie herself is soon gone away, and Margaret is left to fend for herself. But finding work, even as a gifted seamstress, is not easy. Having found employment sewing sacks, her knowledge and experience helps her better herself soon.
When she meets Sandy Watson, she falls in love. Youngest of three brothers, out of Peterhead in the north-east of Scotland, she agrees to marry him, and they move in with his parents. Part of the building serves as a workshop, as the family sewing business thrives. His older brothers are also involved in the business, overseen by his lecherous father, William.
Feeling unsafe in William's company, she urges Sandy to find them a place for themselves, like his brothers have, but Sandy is reluctant, seemingly happy to stay home. The truth behind his reasoning comes slowly to light, and after the birth of their son, Jamie, Margaret realises their predicament when Sandy gambles away their hard-earned savings. William, meanwhile, continues to make unsavoury advances, which his poor wife can't stop. An unexpected death catapults the young couple into a situation neither of them expected, but soon enough, they have a small home of their own, and now in her safe place, Margaret is fairly content. If only Sandy's more and more regular outings with his no-good-for-anything friend, Doddie, would come to an end...
But instead, tragedy strikes, leaving Margaret with no choice but to up sticks again.
Tailored Truths is a moving, heart-wrenching tale of one young woman's resilience in face of hardship, discrimination, and unwanted advances. Still so young, Margaret grows into her character as she is faced with one difficult situation after another. Ms Jardine doesn't let the poor girl off lightly!
But we follow on, enthralled, as Margaret uses her intelligence and diligence to make the best out of the chances offered to her. Jessie, now married in Glasgow, remains her steadfast friend, however, shame makes Margaret keep issues secret from her confidante. How will she be able to trust anyone, if she can't even share her fate? It's a steep learning curve for our Margaret, and I'm sure one that will continue in the next novel in the series.
We want Margaret to do well, talented as she is, and the historical background clearly portrays her struggles. Women had it twice as hard as male workers, and had to do the same jobs for less money, having to make do. Ms Jardine does not shy away from detailing the practices of the times, when many women had to find jobs to feed their families.
The Victorian era is not one I know well, yet I found myself transported back in time, to the simple living spaces of those less well off, and the dangerous work spaces of the big manufacturing businesses. The setting is very different to many romance novels set in the same period, which often tend to portray women of the upper classes – which weren't really affected by the need to work, and the related conditions.
Having lived in Scotland for nearly two decades, I'm familiar with Scots terminology, and I have no problem with any of the dialogue, most of which is in English anyway. I thought that using Scots and (north-eastern) Doric in dialogue has created an authentic Scottish setting that adds valuable impressions to the reading experience.
I found myself completely engrossed in Margaret's story – her hopes, dreams, and her challenges – and I can't wait for the next instalment in this memorable series.
If you love compelling family sagas with warm, caring characters who meet their challenges face on, but also portray a strong sense of realism, then you should check out Nancy Jardine's Silver Sampler series.
Highly recommended!
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Blurb:
An engrossing Victorian Scotland Saga (Silver Sampler Series Book 2)
Is self-supporting success enough for Margaret Law or will her future also include an adoring husband and children? She might secretly yearn for that though how can she avoid a repeat of relationship deceptions that disenchanted her so much during her teenage years?
Employment as a lady’s maid, and then as a private tutor in Liverpool in the 1860s bring thrilling opportunities Margaret could never have envisaged. Though when those posts end, her educational aspirations must be shelved again. Reliance on her sewing skills is paramount for survival when she returns to Dundee.
Meeting Sandy Watson means love, marriage and starting a family - though not necessarily in that order – are a striking development though it entails a move north to Peterhead. Yet, how can Margaret shed her fear of commitment and her independence and take the plunge?
Jessie, her sister-at-heart, is settled in Glasgow. Frequent letters are a life-line between them but when it all goes horribly wrong, the contents of Margaret’s correspondence don’t necessarily mirror her awful day-to-day realities.
Buy Link: Universal Buy Link
This title is available to read on #KindleUnlimited.
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About the Author:
Nancy Jardine writes historical adventure fiction, historical saga, time travel historical adventure and contemporary mysteries.
Research, grandchildren, gardening fill up her day in the castle country of Aberdeenshire, Scotland, when not writing or promoting her writing. Interacting with readers is a joy at Book and Craft Fairs where she signs / sells paperback versions of her novels. She enjoys giving author presentations on her books and on Ancient Roman Scotland.
Memberships include: Historical Novel Society, Scottish Association of Writers, Federation of Writers Scotland, Romantic Novelists’ Association, and the Alliance of Independent Authors.
She is self-published with Ocelot Press.
Connect with Nancy:
Thank you for such a wonderful review! I love to get reviews from readers who enjoy the work and find lots to like about both the era and my characters. Yes, Margaret isn't finding her poor Victorian Scotland life an easy ride. for sure.
ReplyDeleteYou're very welcome, Nancy. I do feel for poor Margaret, and all the stuff you put her through. But she comes back stronger. x :-)
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