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Black Country #2
The Wives' Revenge
A gritty tale of triumph over hardship, and justice for the downtrodden. Lindsey Hutchinson returns with another Black Country saga perfect for fans of Josephine Cox.
Violet Clancy can take no more of her violent stepfather's attentions, so when he meets a tragic end she feels justice has been done. Looking around the bleak and pitiless Black Country town of Wednesbury, she realises that there are many other wrongs that she could help to put right.
Joining a coterie of women who call themselves The Wednesbury Wives, Violet and her friends soon set about winning justice for the abused and trying to make life a little easier for those for whom grinding poverty is every day.
But even in the hardest lives, some light must shine, and before long the wives find laughter and romance in their close-knit town. But will their friendships survive when some of their good deeds are brought into doubt, and some of their methods are called into question? And is justice always worth it, no matter what the price?
- GenresHistorical Fiction
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2017
500 people are currently reading
179 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 15, 2021
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It feels like going back to my roots with this book.
My ever first book I read freely by choice (not counting school books) was Catherine Cookson. Then onto other authors writing the same kind of genre in historical fiction which I thoroughly enjoyed.
It was great returning to an historical fiction novel that took a fantastic subject matter that was all too common and bandy these women together like suffragettes on a historic history breaker.
I loved this bunch of women so much. Determined to stand up for themselves, courageous and meeting things head on among the tears and the triumphs.
December 14, 2017
Great characterisation portrayed as we follow the group of Wednesday wives in 1887 Black Country, England. Fighting for justice for women, justice they will try achieve in any way and at all cost!.
There will be harrowing situations, tears and laughs along the way as we get to know this bonded group of women and the hardships faced.
I learnt a lot from this book and enjoyed it very much.
My thanks go to the publisher, author and Netgalley in providing me with a arc of this book in return for an honest review.
There will be harrowing situations, tears and laughs along the way as we get to know this bonded group of women and the hardships faced.
I learnt a lot from this book and enjoyed it very much.
My thanks go to the publisher, author and Netgalley in providing me with a arc of this book in return for an honest review.
July 22, 2017
I loved this book
Wow what a story the wednesbury wives all come together normal housewives and mothers to protect other women from brutal beatings drunking husbands dealing with them in their own way. This book is so different to any family saga I have ever read before. The second by the author enjoyed the workhouse children and this one as well. Looking forward to the next. It had me hooked and couldn't put it down
Wow what a story the wednesbury wives all come together normal housewives and mothers to protect other women from brutal beatings drunking husbands dealing with them in their own way. This book is so different to any family saga I have ever read before. The second by the author enjoyed the workhouse children and this one as well. Looking forward to the next. It had me hooked and couldn't put it down
January 19, 2018
I listened to the audiobook version of this book and I really enjoyed listening to the story.
Absolutely brilliant. Loved every word. Storytelling at it's best. Recommended.
Absolutely brilliant. Loved every word. Storytelling at it's best. Recommended.
June 30, 2017
The Wives’ Revenge is a new historical novel by Lindsey Hutchinson. We are swept back to 1887. Violet Clancy lives with her mum, Kath Clancy Sligo and her step-father, John in Wednesbury, England (the Black Country). Primrose Berry has done it again. She caused trouble and Violet was blamed for it. Violet knows what will happen when John finds out. When Kath finds out what John has been doing to her daughter, she calls a meeting of the Wednesbury Wives’ (Annie Green, Mary Forbes, Martha Slater, Kath Clancy, Joyce Clews and Violet Clancy). John Sligo soon meets an unfortunate demise. Woman in the town know if they need assistance, they can get help from the Wives’. They assist abused woman, find lost children, and so much more. Violet is asked to join the group when she leaves school and starts looking for work. After what happened with John, Violet avoids men. Then the persistent Spencer Gittins comes along. He is a kind and compassionate young man who falls for Violet. After the two marry, Violet can provide more help to the town. This group of close-knit women set out to get justice for the abused (sometimes revenge) and help the poor in their town. See what a group of hardworking and caring women can do when they band together in The Wives’ Revenge.
The Wives’ Revenge is an engaging novel that captured my attention from the very first page. I found the book to be well-written and have very lifelike characters. Thanks to the authors descriptions, I could visualize the town and her characters. I thought the author did an excellent job at capturing the time period especially with the dialogue (though, I did not like the continual use of the word wench). It was a very different time when the laws did not protect women and children. But the ladies of the Wednesbury Wives’ could and would help them. The Wives’ Revenge has a heartwarming ending. I do want to mention that the book contains foul language, violence, murder and sexual assault. Some of situations are just heartbreaking. There is also love, respect, courage and lifelong friendships. My rating for The Wives’ Revenge is 5 out of 5 stars (I loved it). I found the authors use of what my father called “ten dollar words” amusing (I love big words) and I learned a new word too (coterie). The Wives’ Revenge is one of those books that you will be thinking about for days after you finish it (it lingers in your mind). I will be reading Lindsey Hutchinson’s next book The Lost Sisters.
The Wives’ Revenge is an engaging novel that captured my attention from the very first page. I found the book to be well-written and have very lifelike characters. Thanks to the authors descriptions, I could visualize the town and her characters. I thought the author did an excellent job at capturing the time period especially with the dialogue (though, I did not like the continual use of the word wench). It was a very different time when the laws did not protect women and children. But the ladies of the Wednesbury Wives’ could and would help them. The Wives’ Revenge has a heartwarming ending. I do want to mention that the book contains foul language, violence, murder and sexual assault. Some of situations are just heartbreaking. There is also love, respect, courage and lifelong friendships. My rating for The Wives’ Revenge is 5 out of 5 stars (I loved it). I found the authors use of what my father called “ten dollar words” amusing (I love big words) and I learned a new word too (coterie). The Wives’ Revenge is one of those books that you will be thinking about for days after you finish it (it lingers in your mind). I will be reading Lindsey Hutchinson’s next book The Lost Sisters.
July 10, 2017
Hell has no fury like …................................
Set in the colliery town of Wednesbury in the Black Country between Birmingham and Wolverhampton, this novel has more than a passing resemblance to the books of Catherine Cookson. It is 1887 when the story opens and young Violet Clancy is in trouble again. Since her father's death, her mother Kath has married John Sligo, and life is difficult for Violet and even her mother is at a loss as to why her behaviour has deteriorated.
This is a very readable book and follows the formation of the 'Wednesbury Wives', a group of women who band together to right the wrongs against women. If you like, a sort of impoverished, Victorian, Ku Klux Klan!
As time goes on the Wives become infamous for their activities and are known as far away as Birmingham. Whilst being a force for good, their methods are at best questionable and at worst criminal.
Whilst this isn't my preferred genre there are many readers who will thoroughly enjoy it. There is plenty of action, interesting characters and unlikely relationships, and it paints a picture of the deprivation and cruelty of life in a mining town at the end of the 19th century.
For me, it lacked credibility and was rather formulaic and for these reasons, I cannot give it more than 3 stars. However, it is an easy and entertaining read.
Pashtpaws
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of this book to review.
Set in the colliery town of Wednesbury in the Black Country between Birmingham and Wolverhampton, this novel has more than a passing resemblance to the books of Catherine Cookson. It is 1887 when the story opens and young Violet Clancy is in trouble again. Since her father's death, her mother Kath has married John Sligo, and life is difficult for Violet and even her mother is at a loss as to why her behaviour has deteriorated.
This is a very readable book and follows the formation of the 'Wednesbury Wives', a group of women who band together to right the wrongs against women. If you like, a sort of impoverished, Victorian, Ku Klux Klan!
As time goes on the Wives become infamous for their activities and are known as far away as Birmingham. Whilst being a force for good, their methods are at best questionable and at worst criminal.
Whilst this isn't my preferred genre there are many readers who will thoroughly enjoy it. There is plenty of action, interesting characters and unlikely relationships, and it paints a picture of the deprivation and cruelty of life in a mining town at the end of the 19th century.
For me, it lacked credibility and was rather formulaic and for these reasons, I cannot give it more than 3 stars. However, it is an easy and entertaining read.
Pashtpaws
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of this book to review.
July 3, 2017
Book
Not my usual style of reading but I was completely enthralled from start to finish . The wife's were a force to be reckoned with truly worth 5 stars
Not my usual style of reading but I was completely enthralled from start to finish . The wife's were a force to be reckoned with truly worth 5 stars
July 25, 2024
Black Country #2
Violet Clancy can take no more of her violent stepfather's attention, so when he meets a tragic end, she feels justice has been done. Looking around the bleak and pitiless Black Country town of Wednesbury, she realises that there are many things that she could help put right. Joining a coterie of women who call themselves The Wednesbury Wives, Violet and her friends soon set about winning justice for the abused, and trying to make life a little better for those for whom grinding poverty is every day. But even in the hardest lives, some light must shine, and before long the wives find laughter and romance in their close-knit town. But will their friendships survive when some of their good deeds are brought into doubt, and some of their methods are called into question?
In 1887, in the Black Country town of Wednesbury, a group of friends and neighbours formed the group, The Wednesbury Wives. The people of Wednesbury know they can go to the Wednesbury Wives if they need help, no matter what.
I loved all the main characters in this book. Back in 1887, the law did not protect women and children. A case of the judge's favourite tipple was enough to get the judge to take the man's side, thank goodness that has now changed. The book does contain sexual assault, child abuse, child death, and murder. There are a couple of breathtaking stories from the women. The ending is heart-warming
#KindlePurchase.
Violet Clancy can take no more of her violent stepfather's attention, so when he meets a tragic end, she feels justice has been done. Looking around the bleak and pitiless Black Country town of Wednesbury, she realises that there are many things that she could help put right. Joining a coterie of women who call themselves The Wednesbury Wives, Violet and her friends soon set about winning justice for the abused, and trying to make life a little better for those for whom grinding poverty is every day. But even in the hardest lives, some light must shine, and before long the wives find laughter and romance in their close-knit town. But will their friendships survive when some of their good deeds are brought into doubt, and some of their methods are called into question?
In 1887, in the Black Country town of Wednesbury, a group of friends and neighbours formed the group, The Wednesbury Wives. The people of Wednesbury know they can go to the Wednesbury Wives if they need help, no matter what.
I loved all the main characters in this book. Back in 1887, the law did not protect women and children. A case of the judge's favourite tipple was enough to get the judge to take the man's side, thank goodness that has now changed. The book does contain sexual assault, child abuse, child death, and murder. There are a couple of breathtaking stories from the women. The ending is heart-warming
#KindlePurchase.
August 26, 2017
This is the first book I have read by this author and I really enjoyed it.
The book is set in the Black Country and begins in the 1800s when women had very few rights and were often subjected to brutal behaviour from their husbands. The Wednesbury Wives band together to protect each other and to seek justice and revenge for wrongdoings.
I found the book easy to read with characters I could empathise with. The plot was engaging and kept my interest right though the book until the end. I finished it within a few days. It was very different to other family saga books I have previously read. I enjoyed the ending which was heartwarming.
I will be reading other books by this author as I enjoyed this one. Highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book is set in the Black Country and begins in the 1800s when women had very few rights and were often subjected to brutal behaviour from their husbands. The Wednesbury Wives band together to protect each other and to seek justice and revenge for wrongdoings.
I found the book easy to read with characters I could empathise with. The plot was engaging and kept my interest right though the book until the end. I finished it within a few days. It was very different to other family saga books I have previously read. I enjoyed the ending which was heartwarming.
I will be reading other books by this author as I enjoyed this one. Highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2017
*Received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
This book starts in 1884 but covers a span of at least 20 years, so it has the feeling of a family saga. It was tough for me to get into but it picked up around the 30% mark. Some people may find it too simplistic, but for me, it was a stress reliever because there was a solution for every problem (something I don't get in my real life!). While there are some rough topics mentioned (rape, physical abuse, abortion), none of it is described in lurid detail. Also, any consensual sex is all the way behind closed doors.
I'm not sure if I would buy this for myself, but if I was asked to buy a book for one of my husband's elderly aunties this book would be under consideration.
This book starts in 1884 but covers a span of at least 20 years, so it has the feeling of a family saga. It was tough for me to get into but it picked up around the 30% mark. Some people may find it too simplistic, but for me, it was a stress reliever because there was a solution for every problem (something I don't get in my real life!). While there are some rough topics mentioned (rape, physical abuse, abortion), none of it is described in lurid detail. Also, any consensual sex is all the way behind closed doors.
I'm not sure if I would buy this for myself, but if I was asked to buy a book for one of my husband's elderly aunties this book would be under consideration.
August 4, 2017
How could I not like this book. In the old days of men treating their wives as beating mats and taking all their possessions on marriage this book is a ray of sunshine despite the harsh realities of life in a poor town. What starts out as retribution to a few bad men soon turns around to better living conditions and work for everyone. A smashing read.
May 10, 2018
In spite of poor grammar, some questionable word choice and a plot that is at times strains credulity, I enjoyed this book. I guess it's because of likable characters who are realistic even when some of what they do seems a bit unrealistic.
November 17, 2018
Brilliant read
Another brilliant book by Lindsay Hutchinson. Such a page turner. Such an emotional rollercoaster. I would highly recommend this book, can't wait to read the next one in the series.
Another brilliant book by Lindsay Hutchinson. Such a page turner. Such an emotional rollercoaster. I would highly recommend this book, can't wait to read the next one in the series.
June 30, 2019
Well researched period setting and sufficient motivation for the characters' actions. Well rounded by the end. The difficulty was keeping the tone appropriate and the book has an emotionally satisfying ending.
July 11, 2019
This is quite possibly the worst book I’ve ever read. I’m sorry, but I can barely come up with constructive things to say - it was amateur. It jumped all over & the character development was weak. I’m so glad it’s over.
October 26, 2019
Great read
Another good book by Lindsey Hutchinson. She keeps me enthralled from start to finish. This story about how the Wednesbury wives looked out for the people of the town was excellent
Another good book by Lindsey Hutchinson. She keeps me enthralled from start to finish. This story about how the Wednesbury wives looked out for the people of the town was excellent
January 11, 2022
I loved this book, it was so well told. I've read so many of her books in the past few weeks.
This book showed that women when together can do anything. The story was so funny in places, and incredibly sad. Read it, it is a wonderful book.
This book showed that women when together can do anything. The story was so funny in places, and incredibly sad. Read it, it is a wonderful book.
December 21, 2017
Using God’s name in vain over and over!!
This could and should be a good book to read. However, every sentence it seemed to feel should use God’s name in vain.As an author surely you can find a better way to express yourself!! One day you will meet your maker on bended knee and will have to explain yourself!
This could and should be a good book to read. However, every sentence it seemed to feel should use God’s name in vain.As an author surely you can find a better way to express yourself!! One day you will meet your maker on bended knee and will have to explain yourself!
January 20, 2018
Wives revenge
Very good book. Id love to see this on television as a series,it would be very easy viewing. Highly recommended.
Very good book. Id love to see this on television as a series,it would be very easy viewing. Highly recommended.
December 5, 2018
Just so hard to put down
The story comes alive with both laugher and tears.
U can imagine sitting round the table enjoying a cup of tea, and putting the works to rights.
The story comes alive with both laugher and tears.
U can imagine sitting round the table enjoying a cup of tea, and putting the works to rights.
August 9, 2019
A very good read
January 27, 2020
Great read,
Started reading this book and you soon get to feel as if you’re part of the story ,it gets you gripped right up to the very end.
Started reading this book and you soon get to feel as if you’re part of the story ,it gets you gripped right up to the very end.
June 13, 2021
How many illegal things can a group of women do without being caught this book was good to start but started to be predictable and a bit unbelievable towards the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2021
Another great story
Lyndsey is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. I am now going to look for my next good read
Lyndsey is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. I am now going to look for my next good read
March 30, 2023
A bit darker than book 1.
I love the writing though
I love the writing though
Read
December 21, 2024Love this book read all three in a weekend couldnt put my kindle down
May 2, 2025
easy read very sad in parts 😢
October 15, 2017
This is the type of book I enjoy. I learned some historical facts while enjoying a good story. It was well worth the read. It kept up a good pace and never went through a boring part where some of these types of books do. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
February 18, 2020
Woman's revenge
Housewarming story of Wensbury woman ensuring that woman of their town and community are treated as they should, from abusive husbands to back street abortion clincs anyone who is wrong doing meets the Wensbury Wives.
Housewarming story of Wensbury woman ensuring that woman of their town and community are treated as they should, from abusive husbands to back street abortion clincs anyone who is wrong doing meets the Wensbury Wives.
August 23, 2017
Regally enjoyed this book felt as thought you actually knew the people a really good read would recommend. A lovely end to it
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews