The Pit Girl

by Lynette Rees

A rags to riches tale, with a plucky young heroine dertermined to put her life on the life for her family. Preorder the BRAND NEW heartwarming saga novel from Lynette Rees now! With no one to rely on, she must make an unthinkable choice…

Mari Evans has always known life would be hard, but nothing could have prepared her for how quickly things would fall apart. First, the devastating news that her father has a second family – and chose them over her. Then the tragic accident in the pit that leaves her eldest brother unable to work.

It started as an off-hand joke, a comment by her brother. ‘Cut your hair, Mari. You could pass for a lad and work the pit in my place.’

But with cholera sweeping the village and hunger gnawing at their stomachs, it’s Mari’s only option. Disguised as a boy, she takes her brother’s place underground, risking everything to keep her family from ruin.

But danger isn’t only found in the harsh conditions of pit work. One wrong step could cost her the job, her safety – and even her life.

As whispers circulate and secrets threaten to surface, Mari must tread carefully. How far will one girl go to protect the people she loves?

An emotional story of courage and sacrifice, perfect for fans of Dilly Court, Maggie Hope and Rosie Goodwin.

Praise for Lynette

'A Victorian saga that will definitely appeal to fans of Rosie Goodwin' Lizzie Lane

'...flows from the heart, and is rich in period detail. Another fabulously enjoyable read from Lynette Rees, I loved it.' Sheila Riley

'A gripping historical saga well worth reading!' AnneMarie Brear

'...a gripping tale of love prevailing despite hardship. Lynette Rees has done it again! Brilliant!' Mary Wood

Genres: Historical Fiction

280 pages, Paperback

Published September 10, 2025

About the author

"My favourite author - this lady has just overtaken Catherine Cookson - I can't wait to read more!" ~ Amazon Reviewer

Lynette Rees lives in Wales and has been writing since she was a child. She's in the fortunate position of being a hybrid author - as well as independently publishing some of her novels, she's also published with Quercus Books/Hachette UK. Currently, her most popular novels with readers are: The Governess, Ada the Coster Girl, The Cobbler's Wife and The Ragged Urchin.

Lynette's historical fiction novel, 'The Workhouse Waif', hit the number one spot on the Amazon Kindle bestseller list in 'Victorian Historical Romance' during October of 2016 - it remains one of her favourite books to date. Much to her delight at the time, she was contacted by the commissioning editor of Quercus Books who had downloaded the book from Amazon Prime and loved the story so much that she devoured it all in one sitting! The Workhouse Waif was one of the first books ever enrolled on the then, new Amazon Prime Reading programme. The commissioning editor went on to offer Lynette a traditional publishing deal for that book and three others in the series which were published during 2018 and 2019.

Lynette enjoys the freedom of writing in a variety of genres including: crime fiction and contemporary romance, though her first love is historical fiction which complements her interest in local history and genealogy. When she's not writing, or even when she is writing, Lynette enjoys a glass of wine and the odd piece of chocolate as she creates stories where the characters guide her hand. She honestly has no idea how a story will turn out until the characters tell their own tales in their own unique ways.

The most important thing to Lynette is her family and her stories illustrate this with their warm characters who often show a great deal of compassion for others and the plight they find themselves in.

Praise for Lynette Rees:

The Matchgirl: "Beautifully written and imagined, this is both an entertaining story and a fascinating slice of life-changing history..." - book review - The Lancashire Post

Beneath a Sicilian Sun (retitled: Seduced by the Sicilian): "I was seeing everything described in this. This story is also very emotional and touching with everything that happens. The emotions that they feel are expressed beautifully..." - Sanfrancisco Review of Books

Reviews

[Booklover BEV · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abercaniad Merthyr Tydfil.
A family in ruin
An unthinkable choice.
Mari Evans and her family,
With gossip spreading about her ale drinking father, a right dilemma for her mam Mavis.
Her brother Bryn the only one bringing in a wage from the pit, they just about managing and keeping her youngest Tommy and Nerys all fed it's a even harder struggle after Bryn accident forcing Mari to look for work.
This character a strong willed one provides for her family all that she can.
I totally was engrossed, it such a lovely beautiful story.
A family bond that won't ever be broken.
Loved it all.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I do enjoy a good historical saga set in Britain, but this one is the first I’ve read set in this place and this era. The Pit Girl by Lynette Rees is set in Abercanaid, in Merthyr Tydfil in 1866.
Mari Evans is thirteen years old and lives with her coal miner father Gwynfor (who drinks a lot), her mother Mavis, her brothers Tommy (10) and Bryn (16, a collier at the coal pit since he was 12) and her younger sister Nerys.
It’s a difficult time for everyone there. Cholera has hit the town, so the doctor warns them to wash their hands more and only drink cooled boiled water. The mines are the main place to work in the area, but it’s a dangerous job and there are many hazards. I don’t want to spoil anything for those reading it, but the book title already gives you an idea that events happen which mean little Mari decides to work down the pit herself.
Mari is an amazing young girl – strong, brave and determined to help her family survive by earning money, even though girls are not legally allowed to work down the mine anymore. The family go through so much, but Mari stays positive and practical.
There are many other good characters including Big Al at the pit, Mari’s friend Bobby and the shop owner Mrs Jones who she helps out. But there are nasty characters too, including Dan Sharpe and the men at the pit who don’t like the youngsters working there and the snobby Margaret ‘Marguerite’ Thomas.
The story is full of ups and downs, plenty of things happening to hold the interest of the reader. It feels very authentic and well-researched and I could really picture the scenes in the mines. The pit ponies reminded me of the film Escape from the Dark, which I saw at the cinema when I was a child. It’s very evocative, emotional and draws you in from the first chapter.

[Leona · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Pit Girl was another wonderful read by one of my favourite saga authors Lynette Rees. It didn’t take me long to get immersed in this story about Mari Evans and the hard life she and her family led. Of course life was hard for many people in the late 1800’a and children as young as ten were sent to work down the mines. I found Mari to be a strong and determined character and wanted to help her family in whatever way she could . The author has described so well how life was in those days for the mining families and the details of working down the mines was fascinating to read . A sad and emotional read at times but also one that showed bravery and courage in difficult times .

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this powerful new historical fiction novel from Lynette Rees, readers follow Mari Evans as she discovers her father has a second family he has chosen over them and an accident left her eldest brother unable to work. Disguising herself as a boy, Mari takes her brother’s place underground and risks everything to keep her family safe and secure. One wrong step could kill Mari, and danger circulates everywhere, so Mari must tread carefully as she proceeds with her plan. With danger around every corner and her family depending on her, Mari must make some difficult decisions for the good of her family and stick to her principles as challenges come her way. Well-written and packed with details, readers will love this glimpse into working-class life and the challenges that Mari and her family face. The conflicts and emotional beats are well-written and relatable, and readers will love the drama and obstacles that come their way. The setting is vibrant and brought to life by the details Rees integrates into the story, while the characters’ respective storylines are fleshed out in fantastic detail. Emotional and immersive, readers will love Lynette Rees’s latest historical fiction novel and new protagonist, Mari Evans.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mari and her family lived in Abercanaid a pit town where gossip is rife. Her Father Gwynfor likes a drink and is often out spending money they the family really needed. Luckily her older brother Bryn works at the pit too so they manage to get by. One day Mari hears women gossiping about her Father and a young woman in the town. Unfortunately the gossips were correct and Gwynfor leaves the family for his young girlfriend. Struggling to manage on just Bryn’s money is hard for the family and then tragedy strikes and Bryn gets buried in the pit. Now Mari feels the responsibility for her family is on her shoulders but what can a young 13 year old girl do. Mari will do anything for her family even disguising herself as a boy to go down the pits. This is a story of family bonds and pulling together. A great read.

[Shelagh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in southern Wales in 1866, The Pit Girl made me think of Catherine Cookson’s similar stories from the north of England. This story is beautifully crafted and immersive. I loved 13 year-old Mari Evans, who stepped up to support her mother and siblings after her father abandoned them. Their lives were believably hard and yet I was amazed by Mari’s resourcefulness and her determination in the face of one challenge after another. This story is beautifully written and the characters seemed very real to me. The prejudices of the times in which it is set, the pride of people with virtually nothing and the way their lives and work are depicted are superbly depicted. This book is both well researched and a compelling read and I coudn’t put it down.

[Donna McCaul Thibodeau · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three and a half stars rounded up to four. Mari Evans is Welsh, from a coal mining family. Her father leaves the family for another woman, and her brother, Bryn is hurt in a coal mining accident. The only way to keep her family from starving, is for Mari to pretend to be a boy, and go down the pit.
I liked this book, but I didn't love it. The author's style of writing was very simplistic, so much so that I checked to see if it was a Young Adult book, which it was not. I would rate this an average read.

Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.

[Leanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Pit Girl is a thoughtful historical saga which I am hoping will continue into a series because I enjoyed it very much. We meet a young girl by the name of Mari and her family. When times are at their hardest and then a tragedy strikes Mari decides that pretending to be a boy so she can get work at the pit is her only option to help her family. It's a honest and powerful look at the times and how everything worked back then especially the difference between males and females. I became involved in the characters and I loved reading about their plights. This book is a nice addition to the historical fiction genre and I would love to read more about these characters in future books.

[Firetruckmama · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.

“The Pit Girl” is a historical fiction book by Lynette Rees. This book follows Mari Evans, whose father leaves the family and eldest brother is hurt in a mining accident. Mari dresses up as a boy to work in the coal mines to support the family. This wasn’t a bad book, but I didn’t really enjoy it as much as I thought I would. The writing is a bit simplistic. If you enjoy historical fiction and/or want to learn more about mining towns, this might be a book to pick up. 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.

[Emma Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a book I could not put this book down and just wanted to read on to find out what happens.

The book is very descriptive telling about the conditions down the pit it certainly was interesting. It show the hardships people went through at this time. I liked the main character she was certainly strong and kept the family altogether. There was sad bits in the book but also there was some really nice bits. There were no characters that I didn’t like. There was even a wee bit of romance in the book.

The book was well written and was very informative.

Would recommend the book.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful read as always.

Lovely book again Lynette. Felt as though I was in Abercanaid with Mari. Where was the big house situated (if it existed) was it at the entrance to Abercanaid? Keep up the amazing stories x

[Pat K · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t finish this book, but gave it 3 stars because it’s a perfectly good story, and excellent narrator.
For me it reads like a middle school book, which is fine, but I want something with more drama right now.
I recommend for old kids.

[C.R. Comacchio · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance reader’s copy of this novel.

Setting this story of the Evans family in the coal mining village of Abercannaid in the former farm borough of Merthyr Tydfil, Wales, the author shows how the town’s quick industrialization by the mid 19th century affected its population. If work in the collieries and iron factories promised more steady wages than subsistence farming, it also exposed families to what were previously urban problems—cholera epidemics, mining accidents, diseases brought on by unprotected mine labour, 12 hour days worked by hungry ten year old boys.

As the story opens, Mari Evans, barely 12 years old, is desperately trying to help her mother nurse her youngest brother through what might be the deadly cholera that has been making the rounds. She has to run miles to fetch the only doctor; her sister is too young, and older brother Bryn is working the night shift down the mine. Their father, Gwynfor, is at the pub, where he has taken to staying later and even staying away. Although Mabel Evans had her suspicions, she had not dared confront him, for fear that he would leave the family. They were already stretched. Even Bryn’s wages, without their father’s breadwinner packet, could not carry them. It is understandable why many wives simply looked the other way, as long as the wandering husband continued to provide.

Although Gwynfor Evans was respected for his collier��s skills, he was a moral coward. His mistress was a local young woman barely older than Bryn. They flee to ‘start fresh’ elsewhere, possibly London, leaving a sorrowing and anxious family to fend for themselves, if they can. Just to make things worse, a mine collapse leaves Bryn, now their sole support, with fractured ribs and a crushed foot and no more than ‘a nip of brandy’ to get him through months of recovery.

While Mabel takes in laundry, and Mari works occasional hours at Mrs. Jones’ food store, paid for in provisions, she quickly decides to take radical measures. Cutting off her hair and borrowing work clothes from her school friend Bobby, she is hired on for a 3 day stint of 12 hour days, acting as a collier’s helper. New protective labour laws had prohibited girls from working underground. They could do above ground work, also heavy and dirty, but less dangerous. And also for much less pay. Mari rails against the injustice, but has little choice. And so she goes underground, where her first job is to assist Big Al Probert to take coal out of the narrow, low, and claustrophobic tunnels.

On top of all this, she keeps her job at the shop, and turns to the childless, widowed Mrs. Jones for comfort when bullies who resent the boys taking wages from them make her—newly named Lewis Lloyd—a target.

There is a lot of emotional as well as material anxiety in Mari’s story, and the author is very good at showing the hardships of daily life for all generations in coal towns like Abercannaid. The town and its mines are real, and there were several collapses in Mari’s time. It’s a very sad story, but one that focuses on the bravery and family loyalty of those like Mari who held on and gave everything they had to do so.

[Stefani Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Pit Girl by Lynette Rees
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I've been fortunate to have read another 5 star story!!! This one is a historical fiction that will take you on a journey through what it takes to stay together, support one another, and survive in a family during the 1800's.

Mari Evans is a loveable, thoughtful, and caring 12 year old character from a family of ten. After her father leaves them and her eldest brother is injured, Mari disguises herself as a boy and works at the bottom of a coal mine. She does anything she can to help her family persevere. Mari learns how to navigate an adult world and her strength begins to mature.

I read this book in 1 day! It was that engaging. I was eager to see what happened next. The storyline had its share of drama yet this family had pride and resilience. Their love for one another was powerful and endearing.

I look forward to reading more from this author.

Thank you, NetGalley, and Boldwood Books, for the advanced reader's copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Eunice R · Rating 5 out of 5]

A bittersweet story unfolds in The Pit Girl. A reader will see Mari, the central character, help hold her family together all the while it is devastatingly being wrenched apart by her dad's behavior and her older brother Bryn's mishap. There is a great glimpse of what the life of a coal miner is like: the work and the feeling of working underground, the seriousness of adhering to protocols, ever aware of the dangers and hazards as mostly seen through Mari's eyes.

I found the story to be engaging despite the sadnesses, the ups and downs, of a day in the life of a miner and mining community. I was able to read through quickly and with interest. I appreciated the faith-based input as well.

I believe there is genuine appeal for any reader but in my opinion, miner families will be able to relate the best as the fears and tensions they live with, or have lived with on a daily basis, are felt.

~ Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger ~

August 2025

Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary reveiw copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

[Louise Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mari Evans has always known life would be hard, but nothing could have prepared her for how quickly things would fall apart. First the devastating news that her father has a second family - and chose them over her. Then the tragic accident in the pit leaves her eldest brother unable to work. It started as an off-hand joke, a comment by her brother. "Cut your hair, Mari. You could pass for a lad and work the pit in my place." But with cholera sweeping the village and hunger gnawing at their stomachs, it's Mari's only option. Disguised as a boy, she takes her brothers place underground risking everything to keep her family from ruin.

We get a glimpse of what working as a coal miner involves. This is a bittersweet read of mining life and the hardships they encountered. I liked Mari, she was willing to step into her brother's shoes and work the pit to bring home his wages. This emotional read held my attention throughout.

Published 10th September 2025

I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #LynetteRees for my ARC of #ThePitGirl in exchange for an honest review.

[Angela Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did enjoy this book but the blurb gave it all away so there wasn’t much to expect in the book.

We met Mari and her family, her feckless father who went off with another woman and left her pregnant after his plans went awry. In the worst way possible in the end.

Mari’s eldest brother Bryn was left to hold the family together - then a pit accident he had crushed his foot and the family had even less to live on. A throw away comment meant that Mari went down the pit to help bring in much needed cash. As a female this practice had been outlawed.
Mari also helped in a local shop - not for money - but for provisions.
She was subjected to ridicule by those who considered themselves her betters - but she managed to show the worst lady up in the end.

The book was well written and I was intrigued by the detail into the workings of the mine -hard arduous work for everyone including the pit ponies.

There were a lot of characters to get used to - and the descriptions of the poverty and deprivation were heartbreaking- as was the fact cholera was rife.

Although it was slow in places - it was Lynette Rees producing as brilliant book as always

[Lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Mari's father takes up with another woman, life gets hard for her family, and things get worse when her brother is hurt in a mining accident. The portrayal of how hard life was for Welsh coal miners is realistic and sad, as this is set in 1866. But what was uplifting was the way people helped each other out. Characters like Mrs.Jones, Mam and Al were wonderful, and even Mari's Dad was worthy of compassion. Mari, herself, is a strong character and prepared to have a go, and she certainly did a lot of growing up in the time span of the book. Especially impressive was the way Mari's Mam rallied around Blodwyn and Mrs.Parry, very heartwarming and generous. This was an easy read despite some of the issues covered and was very enjoyable and informative. Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood books for a chance to read and review this book.

[Jeanette Fallon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mari lived with her parents and siblings in a town in Wales. Her father and brother worked in the coal mines. It was a dirty and difficult job. A dangerous job. Many were injured and even killed there.

Life went on. Day by day, the family doing their very best to make ends meet. Then one day the unthinkable happened. Their whole life was turned upside down. Drastic measures were needed. Mari cut her hair and became a pit girl. Well, really a pit boy. A young girl doing a man's job. A secret that must be kept.

This was a page turner. I finished it faster than I wanted to. I loved so many of the characters. Big Al, looks tough, but was a wonderful, caring man. Mari's Mom who has a Christian heart. Mrs. Jones who gives Mari a place to find some comfort and a cup of tea.

I highly recommend.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

The plot centers around Mari Evans, a 12-year-old girl who is trying to keep her family together amid illness, hardship, and the violence of their father, Gwynfor Evans. This narrative will tug at your heartstrings as it explores their struggles and the challenges of living in poverty. My only criticism is that there are quite a few character names to remember, but overall, the book is quite enjoyable. Set in Abercanaid in 1866, Lynette Rees consistently writes captivating sagas. Her vivid descriptions of the town and the mine allow readers to easily envision the setting. This story is yet another gem.

[Aviraj Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book no one could guess this is same author who wrote Cobbler's apprentice.
It's an excellent book not a Saga but a sweet simple Historical Fiction excellent as a Stepping point into Historical Fiction or as a mind cleanser between series.
Only issue is that there is something missing in the end as though stories are left to be told let's hope the next book provides some fulfillment.

[Karen Kingston · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the granddaughter of a pit deputy, it was interesting to read about the lives of mining families in this era, with poor health and safety, the workhouse, etc.
An interesting story about one family and their local community. I look forward to reading more by Lynette in the future.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very well written book which I thoroughly enjoyed reading. The characters were all interesting and the stories all linked together through the trials of life that the Evans family had to endure. The details about life underground in the pits were a particular favourite of mine.

[Caroline Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet story of a Welsh mining family trying to make ends meet after their father leaves them. I’d like to know what happens to Mari next.

[Kacey/Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mari is an incredible character with a tenacious personality that helps her family. She makes decisions that no one else would make and makes us wonder if we would do the same.