Book Blurb:
"From the very first sentence to the final full stop, Novice Threads by Nancy Jardine captivated me with its emotionally charged storytelling. With a realistic historical backdrop, Jardine has created a story that is as impossible to put down as it is to forget. This is a story that will stay with me for a very long time." Yarde Book Reviews
A thirst for education. Shattered dreams. Fragile relations.
1840s Scotland
Being sent to school is the most exhilarating thing that’s ever happened to young Margaret Law. She sharpens her newly-acquired education on her best friend, Jessie Morison, till Jessie is spirited away to become a scullery maid. But how can Margaret fulfil her visions of becoming a schoolteacher when her parents’ tailoring and drapery business suddenly collapses and she must find a job?
Salvation from domestic drudgery – or never-ending seamstress work – comes via Jessie whose employer seeks a tutor for his daughter. Free time exploring Edinburgh with Jessie is great fun, but increasing tension in the household claws at Margaret’s nerves.
Margaret also worries about her parents' estrangement, and the mystery of Jessie's unknown father.
When tragedy befalls the household in Edinburgh, Margaret must forge a new pathway for the future – though where will that be?
Book Buy Link: https://geni.us/xZkov
Author Bio:
Writer, compulsive researcher, public speaker, history obsessive, avid reader. Binge-watcher of Historical T.V. Series.
Memberships: Historical Novel Society, Romantic Novelists' Association, Scottish Association of Writers, ALLI, Federation of Writers (Scotland)
UK Writing Awards placements: The People’s Book Prize; Scottish Association of Writers B. Hammond Prize; Discovering Diamonds Reviews; Chill With a Book Reviews; B.R.A.G Medallion;
Gives local author presentations on her novels/ Roman Scotland
Contacts: http://nancyjardineauthor.com ; http://nancyjardine.blogspot.com ; http://on.fb.me/1hLgWT7
TOPAZ EYES "This is a stunning read, which absorbed my attention from the beginning." Author Jane Bwye
#1 THE BELTANE CHOICE " is one of the most convincing evocations of Celtic Britain that I have ever come across, and the central romance stands out against that background with great passion and immediacy." Simon Stirling, The Review Group.
THE TAEXALI GAME "This combination of fantasy and history, linked by an interactive computer game, is sure to appeal to a wide audience....the writer skilfully creates a most believable world." Adjudicator for The Scottish Association of Writers 'Best Self Published Book' competition.
Editorial Review:
"Novice Threads" is a captivating incursion into 19th-century Scotland, presenting a story
interwoven with family secrets, true friendships, and the challenges of daily life in a small
community. Nancy Jardine manages to create an authentic setting and memorable characters
that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned.
The story follows the life of little Margaret Law and her friend, Jessie Morison, in the village
of Milnathort. Jardine skillfully and authentically depicts the social dynamics and daily
hardships of life in 1844. The plot is driven by the curiosity and desire for understanding of
the young girls, in contrast with the conservatism and rigidity of the adults in their
community.
“Margaret Law knew her best friend Jessie was pestering Mistress Morison, but there was
always a great need to get things straight in her head. She didn’t know why, but it seemed
important to always remember everything and she was annoyed with herself that she’d
forgotten this bit of Jessie’s grandfather’s story. Jessie’s grandmother’s name was Janet but
Margaret would never dare call the old woman that. She was Mistress Morison, a person who
always scared Margaret near to death.”
This quote captures the tension between generations and the young people's need for understanding in a world full of strict rules and unresolved mysteries. The complex relationship between Margaret and Mistress Morison reflects both respect and fear towards adult authority, while also highlighting the close bond between Margaret and Jessie.
Nancy Jardine excels in describing the landscapes and rural atmosphere, and the dialogues
are authentic and full of life, contributing to the reader's immersion in the characters' world.
The secondary characters, such as Mistress Morison and other villagers, are well-drawn,
adding depth and realism to the story. Through authentic characters and lively dialogues,
Jardine creates a vibrant and detailed atmosphere, offering us an intimate glimpse into the
community and human relationships.
The book opens with a lively and amusing episode where Margaret talks to the farm cow, a
scene that underlines the humor and innocence of childhood. The conversation is abruptly
interrupted by Jessie, who appears unexpectedly, adding a layer of dynamism and authenticity
to the dialogue. Through these interactions, the author manages to introduce us to her
characters' world and make us feel part of their community.
Margaret and Jessie discuss their families and friends, gradually revealing local gossip and
intrigues. A central point of their discussion is Granny Maggie, Margaret's grandmother,
whose spicy opinions and observations add a note of realism and humor to the story. Through
these conversations, the reader learns about secondary characters like Auntie Jeannie and
Paul, and the tensions and aspirations that define their lives.
The plot thickens when Margaret is called by her parents for an important discussion. In a
solemn tone, her father explains the family's decision to leave the Muckle Kirk and join the
new United Presbyterian Church. This change reflects the religious and social movements of
the time, highlighting the community's desire for reform and progress. Margaret also learns
that she will be sent to the subscription school, news that sparks her excitement and hopes for
the future.
The description of Margaret's first day of school is filled with emotion and curiosity. The
author perfectly captures the children's excitement and impatience, as well as the importance
of education in a time when access to knowledge was limited. Interactions with new teachers
and classmates, and the discovery of rules and expectations, add depth and authenticity to
Margaret's school experience. Margaret, an intelligent and determined girl, is thrilled by the
opportunity to advance to Mr. Anderson's class after her tenth birthday. However, this
moment of joy is overshadowed by the sadness that her best friend, Jessie, cannot take the
same step due to financial and social constraints. Jessie, despite her remarkable progress in
reading, does not enjoy the same educational advantages due to the mysterious circumstances
of the payments made to Mr. Anderson. Nancy Jardine skillfully conveys the characters'
struggles and feelings.
“Margaret often trudged home to the shop bemoaning that life just wasn’t fair, and God definitely wasn’t being just to her beloved almost-sister.”
This sentence deeply captures Margaret's frustration and helplessness in the face of life's injustices, as well as her devotion to Jessie, whom she considers a sister.
The story evolves over the years, revealing new challenges and changes in the girls' lives.
After losing her grandmother, Jessie faces housing insecurity and an uncertain future, being
forced to move in with another family. Meanwhile, Margaret continues to fight for her
education despite her increasing domestic responsibilities.
Another strong aspect of the novel is the complex relationship between Margaret and her
parents, especially with her mother, Peggy. The dialogues and interactions between them
reflect not only the family dynamics of the time but also Margaret's inner struggle to find her
place and pursue her dreams despite societal and familial constraints.
Margaret, a well-defined and realistic character, is a young woman confronting the changes
and challenges of daily life in a new environment. Her relationship with Peggy, one of her
friends, undergoes significant transformations, and Margaret reflects on the changing
perceptions and behaviors of people as they age. This introspection adds depth to her
character and illustrates her emotional development.
Another important aspect of the book is the role of Mr. Duncan and the dynamics within the
Duncan household. Margaret faces her father's expectations and disapproval regarding her
insufficient salary, reflecting the economic and social tensions of the time. At the same time,
the preparations for Christmas and festive activities offer a glimpse into the traditions and
customs of Edinburgh, contrasting with Margaret's more modest memories of Milnathort. The
budding and passionate relationship between Margaret and Francis adds an element of
romance and personal exploration.
Margaret's interactions with the Duncan family, especially with Rachel, a young sick girl, are
presented with exceptional sensitivity and care. These moments highlight Margaret's empathy
and dedication, as well as the complexity of social roles and responsibilities within the
household. Margaret finds herself in a delicate position, trying to cope with the stress caused
by Rachel's deteriorating health and Helen Duncan's cruel behavior. The situation reaches a
climax when Helen, in an uncontrolled fit of rage, bursts into Rachel's room, bringing even
more suffering in an already fragile moment.
“Margaret watched the violent madwoman turn towards her, so angry that spittle was drooling out of Helen’s mouth.”
This scene clearly illustrates the tension and despair that dominate the house, making the
reader feel the emotional burden of the characters.
Helen Duncan's move to a care home brings significant changes to the Duncan household, but
also new challenges for Margaret. The relationships between family members are
reconfigured, and Margaret faces the inevitable reality of finding a new job. The moment she
receives a telegram from her uncle James is another painful blow, but also a turning point in
the story.
“‘A telegram. For you.’ With great trepidation she unfolded the missive. ‘Oh,’ she
cried. Kate steadied her elbow when she almost overbalanced. ‘It’s not from Jessie and it’s
not about work. It’s from my Uncle James. He says my mother is extremely poorly, and I
shouldn’t hesitate to visit her.’”
Margaret's return to the Duncan household after visiting her uncle and the painful farewell to
her mother once again underscores her inner strength and ability to adapt in the face of
adversity. She is greeted by Kate, who brings her back to reality with surprising and hopeful
news:
“The Master has given us permission to live in the coach house.” It was difficult not to
gape. “Together?” Kate giggled and squeezed her fingers from across the table. “We’re
going to be married next month.”
Ultimately, "Novice Threads" is a story about courage, resilience, and change. Nancy Jardine
creates complex characters whose personal and emotional evolution is carefully tracked,
leaving the reader to reflect on the human ability to face life's challenges. The book not only
offers a captivating read but also a lesson about hope and renewal in the most difficult times.
"Novice Threads" is an engaging and educational story about personal growth, relationships,
and life's challenges within a well-detailed historical context. Nancy Jardine creates
believable and complex characters, exploring class differences and the role of education in
individual empowerment. She invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and personal
transformations in a vibrant world full of authentic details about Scotland, perfect for those
who appreciate historical novels and authentic human interactions.
*****
“Novice Threads” by Nancy Jardine receives 4 stars from The Historical Fiction Company
To have your historical novel editorially reviewed and/or enter the HFC Book of the Year contest, please visit www.thehistoricalfictioncompany.com/book-awards/award-submission