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Margaret of the North

by E. Journey (Goodreads Author)

3.56 of 5 stars 3.56 · rating details · 34 ratings · 18 reviews

A sequel to North and South, Margaret of the North takes off from both Elizabeth Gaskell's book and its retelling on the BBC series. Margaret is a young woman in Victorian times contending with the press of modernity and industrialization and struggling with the age-old complexities of human relationships. After marrying John Thornton, she faces challenges and influences t...more

ebook, 437 pages

Published April 25th 2012 by Amazon

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Jun 21, 2012 Xenia rated it 4 of 5 stars

This is the fourth sequel to Elizabeth Gaskell's North & South that I read. I enjoyed it very much which surpised me. My most favorite thing about the book is the love between John Thornton and Margaret Hale which is constant. It never faltered, not even once. That aspect, I think, is very important to the story and honors Elizabeth Gaskell. Anything less would have ruined the book for me and I probably would not have finished it. Unlike many romance novels of today the hero and heroine get...more This is the fourth sequel to Elizabeth Gaskell's North & South that I read. I enjoyed it very much which surpised me. My most favorite thing about the book is the love between John Thornton and Margaret Hale which is constant. It never faltered, not even once. That aspect, I think, is very important to the story and honors Elizabeth Gaskell. Anything less would have ruined the book for me and I probably would not have finished it. Unlike many romance novels of today the hero and heroine get into huge misunderstandings throughout the book and run away from one another. Even denying their love for each other at times. It was nice to see that is not the case in this book.

The character of Mrs Thornton,(John's mother) is, I think, written closer to the Hannah Thornton of the book that Elizabeth Gaskell wrote. In the BBC miniseries Mrs Thornton while strict and stiff does seem just a tad softer than the Hannah Thornton in the book. I do wish though that in Margaret of The North that Hannah Thornton did not remain so mean spirited for so long still after John married Margaret. She was just awful and I could not like her at all. I also was a bit appalled at her initial reaction to John and Margaret's first child. No matter who the mother is Elise was her grandchild and the first one at that.

I loved the passion between John and Margaret and it was great that the author included that aspect of their relationship. It was also very tastefully done. All of the scenes of quiet moments that John and Margaret spent together, in their bedroom, in the conservatory, in Paris and in Cadiz were so lovely. I always pictured John Thornton as an extremely passionate man who knows how to show his love to Margaret.

This book is very well written, but there are a few words in it that I had to look up. It is great learning new words but when it comes to reading books for pleasure I usually warn authors against using words that most people do not know or use in every day life. Just keep it simple.

All in all this is a very good book and I am glad that I read it. (less)

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Aug 02, 2012 David Lloyd rated it 3 of 5 stars

The romantic classics follow a rather simple recipe. Man and woman meet. There is immediately an underlying attraction, but before they can act upon it, events lead them astray and they grow to despise each other, even more so because of the sexual tension which haunts them. But, in the end, it is true love which conquers all and our hero and heroine join together in a passionate embrace, ensuring us that they will live happily ever after.

There is something smugly satisfying in reading such a ha...more The romantic classics follow a rather simple recipe. Man and woman meet. There is immediately an underlying attraction, but before they can act upon it, events lead them astray and they grow to despise each other, even more so because of the sexual tension which haunts them. But, in the end, it is true love which conquers all and our hero and heroine join together in a passionate embrace, ensuring us that they will live happily ever after.

There is something smugly satisfying in reading such a happy ending. It doesn’t really matter if we really believe that they will live together happily ever after. For a moment, we collectively share a leap of faith, believing that all is possible, if only we find the right person.

Such endings have satisfied people for a long time - centuries, in fact. But lately, readers seem to want more. They want to know what happens next. Do Darcy and Elizabeth marry? Do their passion and newly found intimacy stand the test of time?

And this is where the sequels fit in. Not sequels written by the original authors. They have long since left this world. But sequels written by new authors.

In most cases, the new authors try to maintain the colour and texture of the original work. Where they decide to take us, regarding the progression of the plot, is another matter. Much of this depends on their own view of the world. Do they believe that love will continue to conquer all, despite the mundane trials and tribulations of daily life? Or do they believe that passion and intimacy will slowly fade away.

In “Margaret of the North”, a sequel to Elizabeth Gaskell’s “North and South”, E. Journey chooses the first course. Throughout the sequel, the passion and intimacy between Margaret and John not only show no signs of fading, but appear to grow in intensity. But, whereas this may pay homage to our romantic desires, it does not make for the best reading. Much of the strength of the original story was in the conflict between Margaret and John which leads to their realization of their love for each other in the end. Our expectancy, as to where this conflict may lead us, makes for compelling reading. But in the sequel, things are a little too perfect, and although the repetitive text informing us of their love for each other may be reassuring, it leaves no room for expectation, and makes for very slow reading at times.

Another source for conflict in the original story was the goings on at the mill. Would the mill keep on running, would the workers strike, would the owners of the mill understand the needs of the workers better. These concerns were not only an integral part of the evolving plot, but also had a significant effect upon the relationship between Margaret and John. However, this compelling conflict is lost in the sequel. Margaret has received a sizable inheritance and John no longer needs to worry about how to finance the reopening of the mill. Margaret also has the means now by which to finance her progressive ideas about improving workers’ conditions, something which John fully supports. The only real remaining source of conflict is Margaret’s relationship with John’s mother. John’s mother cannot find it in her heart to accept or like Margaret. However, except for the sadness that this causes in Margaret’s heart, it has no significant effect on John and Margaret’s relationship, nor on other things which take place.

While the sequel is fairly well written, I found that the method of telling the story through the eyes, and more specifically - through the minds of the characters, left me somewhat detached. Reflections ran on for a little too long and I found too much of the text repetitive. And without elements of conflict, the characters seemed too one dimensional, at times. I also found that too much effort was invested in retelling many of the events that took part in the first book, as if only in this way could we truly understand what was transpiring. I would have preferred that the understanding of events in the original to be more subtly presented.

As you may have guessed - although I consider myself a romantic by nature - I am also a pessimist as to how long romance can last. If you do not share such pessimism, you may see many of the things I have written about quite differently in your own reading of the book.
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Jul 21, 2012 Sevinar rated it 5 of 5 stars

Note: THIS REVIEW IS FROM MY BLOG AND IS BASED ONLY ON THE VERY FIRST 7500 WORDS. IT IS HERE BY REQUEST TO HELP PEOPLE UNDERSTAND WHAT THIS NOVEL IS REALLY ABOUT AND THIS OBNOXIOUS CAPITAL LETTERING IS SO NO ONE OVERLOOKS THIS FACT.

Title: Margaret of the North
Author: EJourney
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Margaret-of-the...

Characters:
5/5
Erm okay, before I review this, I'd just like to admit to the world that I have a subscription to Netflix and well, you know how Netflix stalks your preferences?...more

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Oct 06, 2012 Indie Kindle Blitz rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

E. Journey’s Margaret of the North is an engaging sequel to Elizabeth Gaskell’s North and South. The story of Margaret and John’s romance from North and South is one that really engages readers and leaves them wanting more. Journey has fulfilled that desire with her book. Readers who enjoyed North and South will find reading this sequel to be a distinct pleasure.

Journey brings a freshness and vitality to Gaskell’s characters. Margaret is every bit as compelling a character as she was in Gaskell’...more

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Aug 24, 2012 Darla rated it 4 of 5 stars

First and foremost, I must commend the author E Journey on writing such a beautiful and moving novel. It must have taken a long time and much effort, and it really shows in the pages of Margaret of the North. I’ve read too many books where it is obvious the author rushed the process or was just “winging it”, and this is clearly not the case here. The narrative was tight and strong, and the plots were well thought out and artfully woven together. I am a stickler for grammar and punctuation, and w...more

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Aug 13, 2012 Book Princess Sophia rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, kindle-reads, relationships, romance

It has been many, many years since I’ve read Elizabeth Gaskell’s North and South, and I admit I’d forgotten much of the story. However I remembered that I enjoyed it, so I was eager to read this continuation of Margaret’s journey in Margaret of the North. Right away I was drawn into the rich and atmospheric world E. Journey described, and was instantly brought to another time and place and felt an immediate connection with the characters of Margaret and John. The author quickly and thoroughly br...more

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Oct 08, 2012 Rich rated it 5 of 5 stars

First, a disclosure: I am related to the writer. But I did do my dissertation on married women's reactions to changing social possibilities, a strong theme in this book. So, I do have something to say although I did balk at reading this novel, at first. I don't get much into romances. But I did relent and was surprised to find this novel engaging.

This novel is more than just a romance. It also tries to further develop some of the complexity of Gaskell’s original novel. Margaret is more independe...more First, a disclosure: I am related to the writer. But I did do my dissertation on married women's reactions to changing social possibilities, a strong theme in this book. So, I do have something to say although I did balk at reading this novel, at first. I don't get much into romances. But I did relent and was surprised to find this novel engaging.

This novel is more than just a romance. It also tries to further develop some of the complexity of Gaskell’s original novel. Margaret is more independent and rebellious than we would expect of a Victorian woman, ignoring some of the social restrictions on women of that time, challenging authority when she sees injustice. including Thornton’s initial disregard for the rights of his workers. It may even be argued that she uses her sexual power on him to lead him to change some of his views and the actions he takes toward his workers. You can see in her actions to improve the lot of wotkers that Margaret continues to leave the sealed off world of feminine domesticity to engage in the masculine public world through philanthropy. .

The tender, sensitive, loving side of Thornton is also shown throughout the novel not only in his encounters with Margaret. His caring for his workers develops further. This softening or blurring of roles for both Margaret and Thornton has led them into a new way of meeting each other, more as persons than rigid role players.

Thornton’s world also increases and becomes more open, and the author shows this using the benefit of her art training: The lead characters visit Paris to witness the great upheavals of the reconstruction of the city, adding the element of historical artistic developments to upheavals caused by industrialization. In describing Paris and the lively Parisian cafes, she brings her understanding of the birth of modernism in art to demonstrate not only Thornton’s admitting that “careless ease” has a purpose but also that rapid changes are clearly taking place in other cities.

Margaret of the North: a romance, yes. But a romance situated in changing times, in changing social and sexual roles, in social and artistic upheavals.(less)

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Aug 20, 2012 April rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: drama, families-and-relationships, historical-fiction, kindle, literary

As I was reading “Margaret of the North”, I found myself feeling torn more than anything. On one hand I thought the writing to be lovely…E. Journey is skilled at weaving engaging prose. But on the other hand I kept feeling like I was always waiting for something to actually happen. I guess for me, there weren’t enough high stakes to provide the story with the tension that its predecessor had. While it’s nice to see Margaret rich and happy and in love, there are no imminent threats, no real dange...more

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Feb 21, 2013 Kristin rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

When I first received this Goodreads Giveaway, I was concerned at reading the back cover: "Your guilty pleasure. An enduring romance." I thought maybe I had stumbled upon erotica or something. The dedication perpetuated that concern: "...we find it not only in longing, aching gestures and smoldering eyes;..." Thankfully, the book is not that way at all, but it is way over the top when it comes to gushy prose and description. I am not the right audience for this book. I love Jane Austen and her a...more

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Aug 21, 2012 Stacy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, romance

I'm a sucker for a great romance and Margaret of the North by E. Journey did not disappoint! I loved the language and the tone of the narrative as we continue on with the saga of Margaret and John’s life after the end of “North and South”. There were times where I thought the pacing slowed a bit too much for my liking, and there were some excessive details that I thought did little or nothing to add to the richness of the story. But other than the few places that I skimmed over I thought the sto...more

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Aug 30, 2012 Jhonni Parker rated it 5 of 5 stars

Loved this book! Wow, I only just finished it a few hours ago and I can’t get it out of my mind! I wanted to stay forever lost in the pages of this story, never to leave. I love the way the E. Journey writes, the words seemed to almost put me in a trance at times! I was totally pulled into Margaret’s world and felt her struggles along with her as she navigated the terrain of her new life and all the conflicts that came with it. Was this book perfect? Of course not…no book is. But what it did do...more

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Aug 27, 2012 Samantha rated it 3 of 5 stars

I had a hard time getting in to this book at first, mostly because I had no idea what the other book/story (North and South) was about. I’d never even heard of it, but I do like historical romance so I thought I’d give it a shot. I do feel like the author brought me up to speed on the events that occurred prior to the opening of her novel “Margaret of the North”, but for me, I kept feeling like there was something I wasn’t quite getting. So I don’t know if this is my own fault for having not bee...more

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Aug 22, 2012 Carla rated it 5 of 5 stars

Being totally unfamiliar with the story that “Margaret of the North” is based on (the series “North and South”), I was able to read and appreciate this book with a clear and open mind. I immediately was drawn into the story of Margaret and John and loved watching their romance unfold. The author did a wonderful job of taking my imagination to another time and place and keeping it there. The characters were well-rounded and dynamic, the storyline engaging and intricate, and the descriptions clear...more

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Aug 16, 2012 Kaylee rated it 4 of 5 stars

I've read so many stories that end just as they were getting “good”, meaning the hero/heroine finally resolve their differences; realize they are madly in love, only to have the book end. How many times I’ve wanted to know the story AFTER the story where we can enjoy the fruits of the lovelorn characters labors. But it is not without its risks…one has to wonder when people connect and fall in love amidst all the drama and turmoil, what will their lives be like once the dust has settled? Will it...more

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Aug 15, 2012 Karen *ReaderGirl* rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: family-relationships, drama, government-and-society, history, kindle-reads, romance

E. Journey wastes no time in setting the stage for her part 2 of “North and South” after John and Margaret realize they are in love and the rest of their life awaits them. This was a wonderful, well-written novel that truly captured my imagination and had me eagerly turning the pages. However, I thought that there were times where the narrative from the individual characters went on unnecessarily long, and was being “told” to me instead of having me experience their emotions first hand (telling...more

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Aug 19, 2012 BellaReadz rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, history, kindle-reads, loved, romance, drama

A stunning piece of literary brilliance! Wow, it is not often where I am really impressed with the way an author writes (I usually care more about the plot and tend to shy away from the literary stuff), but this book was…for lack of a better word – beautiful. I loved the near-magical way that E. Journey strung sentences together that evoked such vivid imagery simply with words. Although I had never seen the miniseries “North and South” and was pretty unfamiliar with the plot, I never felt lost o...more

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May 04, 2013 Christina rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The writing in this story is quite lovely and heartfelt, but I spent most of my reading time waiting for something to happen, for some drama to unfold. There were a few things that added to the plot - family tensions, mostly - but not much in the way of external drama or conflict. Most of the book is just John and Margaret being happy. Over and over again. I'd rate the plot and lack of conflict a 2/5, but the writing style bumps it up a notch for me.

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Feb 22, 2013 Donna O'neill rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Loved it, big fan of Elizabeth Gaskell's North & South, great suquel

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About E. Journey

A flaneuse writing and illustrating what she sees and loves. In a past life, EJ, who has a dormant Ph.D. in the field of psychology from the University of Illinois, did mental health program research, evaluation and development. Now, she does art in various media from oils to digital paintings and writes when she feels she has something to say. Some of her musings reside in cyberspace at www.eveon ...more

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