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Trying Times for the Mill Girls by Chrissie Walsh #Review #TheLockwoodInheritanceBook2

  West Yorkshire 1900-1918 Today we are going back to the early days of the twentieth century to see how life in Almondbury changes at this critical time.   Trying Times for the Mill Girls by Chrissie Walsh is published  today on December 5th by Boldwood Books .   You can read  my review of Book 1 in the Lockwood Inheritance series, A New Dawn for the Mill Girls   here   In changing times, even the strongest must fight to hold on... At the dawn of a new century, mill mistress Verity Hardcastle and her husband Oliver welcome their long-awaited twins: gentle, golden-hearted Briony and spirited, stormy Blaise. From the beginning, their children seem destined to pull in different directions—but the Hardcastles stand united, proud stewards of Lockwood Mill and its tight-knit community of hardworking girls. As the winds of change sweep through Yorkshire—from the rise of the suffragette movement to the shadow of war—the mill stands firm. ...

Under the Mistletoe by Sue Moorcroft #Review

 


This was one of those festive books which I was looking forward to reading so I am absolutely delighted to be on the tour to celebrate the publication of Sue Moorcroft’s Under the Mistletoe by Avon on 28th October.   

Christmas. A time for family, friends – and rekindling old flames…

When Laurel returns to the village of Middledip, she’s looking for a quiet life. Adjusting to her recent divorce, she’s ready to spend some time getting back on her feet amidst the glorious snow-dusted countryside.

Yet, life in Middledip is far from straightforward. Coming to the aid of her sister, Rea, as she navigates her own troubles, Laurel barely has a moment to think about where her own life is going.

However, time stands still when she sees her old flame, Grady Cassidy – and it’s soon as if they’ve never been apart. But through her happiness, Laurel remembers why she left the village all those years ago, as she recalls a dark night and Grady’s once-wayward brother, Mac…

Can Laurel learn to forgive and forget? Or will her chances of Christmas under the mistletoe with Grady remain a dream?

An enchanting, festive read, perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan and Carole Matthews.


 My Thoughts

I found all the ingredients I always enjoy in a Christmas story but there is a lot more to the novel than that. Christmas and festive crafts overlay the story and add a glorious sparkly gloss over the village. Laurel's family ties are strong and what brings her back to Middledip. She has a secret which she has tried to bury in the past but which has influenced her all her adult life. The characterisation in the novel is a strength. We are introduced to the thoughts of several characters, either directly or through their actions. This gives them a certain depth. 

    The different generations interact in the story and at times, you can see them learn from each other. Despite the serious issues, there is a hopeful tone, with the possibility of forgiveness and moving on, if the characters can take that step. There are parallels in Laurel and Grady's lives. They realise that there is something in their lives that they both have to come to terms with. You also see their relationships with their siblings and niece and nephew. They also share a creative streak and express themselves through their art. I enjoyed all these story threads and found it to be a great Christmas read.

In short: Second chances and family ties.

About the Author


Sue Moorcroft is a Sunday Times bestselling author and has reached the coveted #1 spot on Amazon Kindle UK as well as top 100 in the US. She’s won the Goldsboro Books Contemporary Romantic Novel Award, Readers’ Best Romantic Novel award and the Katie Fforde Bursary. Sue’s emotionally compelling, feel-good novels are currently released by publishing giant HarperCollins in the UK, US and Canada and by other publishers around the world. She’s also well known for short stories, serials, columns, writing ‘how to’ and courses.

Born in Germany into an army family, Sue spent much of her childhood in Cyprus and Malta but settled in Northamptonshire, England aged ten. She loves reading, Formula 1, travel, time spent with friends, dance exercise and yoga.

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Book link: Amazon UK   |  Kobo  |  Apple  |  WH Smith
                | Bookshop.org    |  Audible

Thanks to Sue Moorcroft, Avon Books and Rachel of Rachel's Random Resources for a copy of the book and a place on the tour.

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