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The Weaver's Daughter
Kate's loyalties bind her to the past. Henry's loyalties compel him to strive for a better future. In a landscape torn between tradition and vision, can two souls find the strength to overcome their preconceptions?
Loyalty has been at the heart of the Dearborne family for as long as Kate can remember, but a war is brewing in their small village, one that has the power to rip families asunder --including her own. As misguided actions are brought to light, she learns how deep her father's pride and bitterness run, and she begins to wonder if her loyalty is well-placed.
Henry Stockton, heir to the Stockton fortune, returns home from three years at war seeking refuge from his haunting memories. Determined to bury the past, he embraces his grandfather's goals to modernize his family's wool mill, regardless of the grumblings from the local weavers. When tragedy strikes shortly after his arrival, Henry must sort truth from suspicion if he is to protect his family's livelihood and legacy.
Henry has been warned about the Dearborne family. Kate, too, has been advised to stay far away from the Stocktons, but chance meetings continue to bring her to Henry's side, blurring the jagged lines between loyalty, justice, and truth. Kate ultimately finds herself with the powerful decision that will forever affect her village's future. As unlikely adversaries, Henry and Kate must come together to find a way to create peace for their families, and their village, and their souls - even if it means risking their hearts in the process.
Loyalty has been at the heart of the Dearborne family for as long as Kate can remember, but a war is brewing in their small village, one that has the power to rip families asunder --including her own. As misguided actions are brought to light, she learns how deep her father's pride and bitterness run, and she begins to wonder if her loyalty is well-placed.
Henry Stockton, heir to the Stockton fortune, returns home from three years at war seeking refuge from his haunting memories. Determined to bury the past, he embraces his grandfather's goals to modernize his family's wool mill, regardless of the grumblings from the local weavers. When tragedy strikes shortly after his arrival, Henry must sort truth from suspicion if he is to protect his family's livelihood and legacy.
Henry has been warned about the Dearborne family. Kate, too, has been advised to stay far away from the Stocktons, but chance meetings continue to bring her to Henry's side, blurring the jagged lines between loyalty, justice, and truth. Kate ultimately finds herself with the powerful decision that will forever affect her village's future. As unlikely adversaries, Henry and Kate must come together to find a way to create peace for their families, and their village, and their souls - even if it means risking their hearts in the process.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2018
About the author
Sarah E. Ladd
20 books2,810 followersI would love to connect with you on Facebook and talk about all things Regency! Be sure to like my page for updates: http://www.facebook.com/SarahLaddAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 408 reviews
November 27, 2019
.
The Romeo-and-Juliet-esque romance between Kate Dearborn and Henry Stockton is perfectly paced and dimensional . . .' (RT Book Reviews)
This historical Christian romance selection is a joy to read. Amid turmoil from the longtime feud between competing professions, set in Britain's Industrial Revolution, comes the ability to forge ahead with new ideas and relationships, if only they are willing to take a chance. Each side sees the changes as an affront to their profession and they are ready to battle.
My mother once told me that we cannot control what others do, we can only control how we react to it. Being angry will only hurt you and not them. And yet, lost affection can be painful.
The reader bounces from tension and action, conventionality versus updates, anger versus romance, suspense, and disappointments with unexpected twists and turns. The author is able to weave this tale together and entertain the reader with captivation and interest.
This is a powerful story of a strong woman who struggles as the stakes increase, causing violence and unrest, you follow along and wonder if they will ever find a solution to their struggles. With Henry's new outlook on life, it appears there might just be a possibility.
This stand-alone book is powerful and realistic at the same time. The author does an incredible job of letting us know the intricate details of Britain's Industrial Revolution conflicts. the reader may feel sadness as it comes to a conclusion since there will be no further connections with the characters they have come to love and enjoy.
..
The Romeo-and-Juliet-esque romance between Kate Dearborn and Henry Stockton is perfectly paced and dimensional . . .' (RT Book Reviews)
This historical Christian romance selection is a joy to read. Amid turmoil from the longtime feud between competing professions, set in Britain's Industrial Revolution, comes the ability to forge ahead with new ideas and relationships, if only they are willing to take a chance. Each side sees the changes as an affront to their profession and they are ready to battle.
My mother once told me that we cannot control what others do, we can only control how we react to it. Being angry will only hurt you and not them. And yet, lost affection can be painful.
The reader bounces from tension and action, conventionality versus updates, anger versus romance, suspense, and disappointments with unexpected twists and turns. The author is able to weave this tale together and entertain the reader with captivation and interest.
This is a powerful story of a strong woman who struggles as the stakes increase, causing violence and unrest, you follow along and wonder if they will ever find a solution to their struggles. With Henry's new outlook on life, it appears there might just be a possibility.
This stand-alone book is powerful and realistic at the same time. The author does an incredible job of letting us know the intricate details of Britain's Industrial Revolution conflicts. the reader may feel sadness as it comes to a conclusion since there will be no further connections with the characters they have come to love and enjoy.
..
April 28, 2021
Now this one is a good story! A Regency centered around the strife between the weavers and the millers as machine-weaving mills take over the previously hand-done cloth industry—both unique and interesting in scope. It was hard to lay it aside to do other tasks, and I found both Henry and Kate to be equally engaging and principled characters. It was a joy to spend time with both of them, to see how Kate endeavors to show respect to her difficult father, and how Henry defends his livelihood with compassion and forgiveness. I wanted to root for both of them to succeed. I also loved how their romance was circumspect and appropriate to the time period they are in.
The antagonists were also believable and interesting. For example, Frederica is just as trapped as Kate is, despite her fancy lifestyle and better position in society.
I definitely am hoping that this is the start of a new series, and that we get to have a book on Frederica and a book on Kate's brother Charles!
Cons: I didn't like how Mollie's having a child out of wedlock was portrayed in a couple places. At first it was made clear that she had asked God's forgiveness for her "indiscretion," but in later scenes it was called "error in judgment" and "perceived sin," which made it sound like she hadn’t done something all that bad. It's hinted that her sin of lying is greater than her sexual sin, while Biblically both are against God's laws.
Language: "for heaven's sakes" used lightly
Thanks to NetGalley for a free review copy. A favorable review was not required.
The antagonists were also believable and interesting. For example, Frederica is just as trapped as Kate is, despite her fancy lifestyle and better position in society.
I definitely am hoping that this is the start of a new series, and that we get to have a book on Frederica and a book on Kate's brother Charles!
Cons: I didn't like how Mollie's having a child out of wedlock was portrayed in a couple places. At first it was made clear that she had asked God's forgiveness for her "indiscretion," but in later scenes it was called "error in judgment" and "perceived sin," which made it sound like she hadn’t done something all that bad. It's hinted that her sin of lying is greater than her sexual sin, while Biblically both are against God's laws.
Language: "for heaven's sakes" used lightly
Thanks to NetGalley for a free review copy. A favorable review was not required.
April 24, 2018
This author is an absolute auto buy for me when she has a new release out. A slow to start romance, the book really hooked me. A romantic Regency suspense that I was able to guess until the end. The story wasn't a bunch of fluff romance but the story built steadily with a great story . Work at the mill is assured for everyone in this small village. That's how they support their families but as we all know life changes. Times evolve and get more modern and people start to get replaced by machines in the wool mills even back in 1812 . With many men out of work and no way to support their families riots start and tragedies occur. Henry Stockton takes over the mill with his grandfather's passing. Will he bring new ideas that make people happy and will he be deemed trustworthy after his grandfather made so many enemies? Kate Dearborne has been warned to stay away from Henry, their families are in competition with their mills but they keep finding themselves at the same places at the same time. Can their hearts trust and will love find wings and fly? The author does and excellent job of engaging the reader throughout the book. I hope to see stories from some secondary characters, namely Mollie, who has a child of of wedlock and Charles, Kate's brother.
Pub Date 10 Apr 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson--FICTION through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Pub Date 10 Apr 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson--FICTION through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 25, 2018
A story beset by unrequited love and questions of loyalty, The Weaver's Daughter starts out gently, then culminates in tension-filled scenes and a satisfying ending.
The setting and time-period make for a compelling read. At this point in history, mill owners and weavers were at odds. New technologies were making production more efficient, and mill owners had to change or risk losing their business. This didn't sit well with the weavers, who valued tradition and loyalty to each other. The new machinery that threatened their jobs were the focal point of the strife between the two groups in this story. I found these details to be fascinating. There were North and South vibes all over this story, and I really enjoyed that aspect of it. though Henry Stockton is not quite as stern as Mr. Thornton, it had the same overtones of the disparity between classes. As usual with this time period, I'm always saddened that children were forced to work in order to help their family survive.
Kate, our weaver' daughter, is caught in the middle. Fiercely loyal to her father, a weaver, and her brother, a worker at Stockton Mill, Kate is already divided between the two men, as her father will not speak to his son on any condition. When Henry Stockton returns from war, she begins to question her fealty to her father, not necessarily because of Henry himself, but because of her father's own questionable loyalty to her. Is her loyalty misplaced, and how will she respond when lives are at stake?
I appreciated that the story is presented from the points of view of both Kate and Henry. They are both likable, yet realistically flawed. Their characters display compassion for others, with a sincere determination to do what is right. I found both of them to be engaging both as individuals and when they interacted with each other.
Another character, Frederica, also has a few scenes from her point of view, which had me concerned a bit that she would turn out to be the "villain" of the story and do something cheesy or melodramatic, but that wasn't to be. A complex antagonist, I ended up feeling a lot of empathy for her. It set up things nicely for a story about her, and I hope that's the case because I do think there may be hope for her yet.
And, ah, I can't resist saying something about the romance. It was sweet, tension-filled, and utterly swoon-worthy. Regency readers and historical romance readers will be find a worthy read in The Weaver's Daughter. I enjoyed every moment I spent reading it and look forward to reading more of Ladd's books as soon as I can.
I received an advanced copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review; the opinions expressed here are my own.
The setting and time-period make for a compelling read. At this point in history, mill owners and weavers were at odds. New technologies were making production more efficient, and mill owners had to change or risk losing their business. This didn't sit well with the weavers, who valued tradition and loyalty to each other. The new machinery that threatened their jobs were the focal point of the strife between the two groups in this story. I found these details to be fascinating. There were North and South vibes all over this story, and I really enjoyed that aspect of it. though Henry Stockton is not quite as stern as Mr. Thornton, it had the same overtones of the disparity between classes. As usual with this time period, I'm always saddened that children were forced to work in order to help their family survive.
Kate, our weaver' daughter, is caught in the middle. Fiercely loyal to her father, a weaver, and her brother, a worker at Stockton Mill, Kate is already divided between the two men, as her father will not speak to his son on any condition. When Henry Stockton returns from war, she begins to question her fealty to her father, not necessarily because of Henry himself, but because of her father's own questionable loyalty to her. Is her loyalty misplaced, and how will she respond when lives are at stake?
I appreciated that the story is presented from the points of view of both Kate and Henry. They are both likable, yet realistically flawed. Their characters display compassion for others, with a sincere determination to do what is right. I found both of them to be engaging both as individuals and when they interacted with each other.
Another character, Frederica, also has a few scenes from her point of view, which had me concerned a bit that she would turn out to be the "villain" of the story and do something cheesy or melodramatic, but that wasn't to be. A complex antagonist, I ended up feeling a lot of empathy for her. It set up things nicely for a story about her, and I hope that's the case because I do think there may be hope for her yet.
And, ah, I can't resist saying something about the romance. It was sweet, tension-filled, and utterly swoon-worthy. Regency readers and historical romance readers will be find a worthy read in The Weaver's Daughter. I enjoyed every moment I spent reading it and look forward to reading more of Ladd's books as soon as I can.
I received an advanced copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review; the opinions expressed here are my own.
July 16, 2018
The Weaver’s Daughter is a fresh take on the Regency Romance. Focusing on the birth of the Industrial Revolution, Sarah Ladd shows us how the painful beginnings changed society – all brought to life through the eyes of appealing characters. Henry and Kate’s romance is sweet and compelling, and the story is an exciting and romantic read. Highly recommended!
March 22, 2018
A lovely tale set in England during the early 1800s. The Weaver's Daughter is about family loyalty, innovation, working conditions and more.
Kate is the daughter of a weaver. She loves the family business and loves her father. Her father has plans to marry her to one of his employees. Her father treasures tried and true methods and is resistant to technology changes that could reduce employment opportunities.
Henry is the grandson of the owner of a wool mill. His grandfather embraces technology and seeks out new ways.
There is clearly tension between the two families. I love that this novel is not so much a romance as it is about the two main characters figuring out their own path and forming their own opinions about how a business should be run and their lives lived.
Kate is such a wonderful heroine. She is loyal, loving and hard working. I loved how she put the needs of others above her own.
And the cover...stunning.
My gratitude to the author and publisher Thomas Nelson for an ARC of this novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
Kate is the daughter of a weaver. She loves the family business and loves her father. Her father has plans to marry her to one of his employees. Her father treasures tried and true methods and is resistant to technology changes that could reduce employment opportunities.
Henry is the grandson of the owner of a wool mill. His grandfather embraces technology and seeks out new ways.
There is clearly tension between the two families. I love that this novel is not so much a romance as it is about the two main characters figuring out their own path and forming their own opinions about how a business should be run and their lives lived.
Kate is such a wonderful heroine. She is loyal, loving and hard working. I loved how she put the needs of others above her own.
And the cover...stunning.
My gratitude to the author and publisher Thomas Nelson for an ARC of this novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
May 28, 2018
About this book:
“Kate's loyalties bind her to the past.
Henry's loyalties compel him to strive for a better future.
In a landscape torn between tradition and vision, can two souls find the strength to overcome their preconceptions?
Loyalty has been at the heart of the Dearborne family for as long as Kate can remember, but a war is brewing in their small village, one that has the power to rip families asunder --including her own. As misguided actions are brought to light, she learns how deep her father's pride and bitterness run, and she begins to wonder if her loyalty is well-placed.
Henry Stockton, heir to the Stockton fortune, returns home from three years at war seeking refuge from his haunting memories. Determined to bury the past, he embraces his grandfather's goals to modernize his family's wool mill, regardless of the grumblings from the local weavers. When tragedy strikes shortly after his arrival, Henry must sort truth from suspicion if he is to protect his family's livelihood and legacy.
Henry has been warned about the Dearborne family. Kate, too, has been advised to stay far away from the Stocktons, but chance meetings continue to bring her to Henry's side, blurring the jagged lines between loyalty, justice, and truth. Kate ultimately finds herself with the powerful decision that will forever affect her village's future. As unlikely adversaries, Henry and Kate must come together to find a way to create peace for their families, and their village, and their souls - even if it means risking their hearts in the process.”
Series: As of now, no.
Spiritual Content- Church going; Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; Mentions of churches, church going, services, & ministers; A few mentions of prayers & thanking God; A few mentions of miracles; A mention of a prayer book; A mention of sin;
*Note: Mentions of ghosts & a man is called one; A few mentions of a man’s demons; A couple mentions of superstitious & evil.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blast’, a ‘drat’, an ‘idiot’, a ‘what in blazes’, a ‘what in heaven’s name’, two ‘Egad’s, two ‘la’s, and two ‘stupid’s; A few mentions of curses (said, not written); A bit of sarcasm; Finding a murdered body of a family member & blood (up to semi-detailed); A carriage accident, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Fighting, gunshots, fires, vandalism, & shooting (to harm, not kill) another (semi-detailed); Seeing a fight/brawl, injuries, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of a war, horrors, battles, fighting, beatings, being shot at, being stabbed, blood/bleeding, seeing others dying, & deaths (barely-above-not-detailed); Many mentions of fires, smoke, carriage accident, fight/brawls, being shot, injuries, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of violence, attacks, crimes, threats of killing and harm, & vandalism; Mentions of a murder, murderer, the body, how it happened, blood, stabbings, & gunshots (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths through fevers; Mentions of hangings & the acts that lead to being hung; Mentions of a work accident, injuries, blood/bleeding, & pain (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of hatred; Mentions of drinking, alcohol, & drunks; Mentions of pipes, tobacco, & smoking; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of nightmares; A few mentions of duels; A few mentions of jail/prison; A couple mentions of bars.
Sexual Content- a forehead kiss, and two semi-detailed kisses; Remembering a kiss (up to semi-detailed); Thinking about kissing someone (does not happen); Touches, Warmth, & Recalling touches (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing & Smelling (barely-above-not-detailed, x2); Mentions of Henry’s sister’s pregnancy out of wedlock (no details on how it happened); Mentions of a kiss & kissing (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of flirting, flirts, & people throwing themselves at the opposite gender; Mentions of scandals, reputations, & chaperones; A few mentions of a man looking at Kate with desire (it’s unsaid what kind of desire it is); A few mentions of blushes; A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of men fraternizing with unmarried women; A mention of a woman using her feminine charms on a man; A mention of men ogling a woman; A mention of men staring at a woman hungerly; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Mentions of childbirth pain & mothers dying in childbirth; A couple mentions of dresses accentuating a woman’s curves.
-Kate Dearborne, age 21
-Henry Stockton, age 25
P.O.V. switches between them & Frederica (x4)
Set in 1812 (Prologue in 1801)
350 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
I’ve actually read all of this author’s other books, but I have to say I enjoyed this one the most due to the substance in it. There’s a lot more drama in this book than I was expecting, based on the cover. I found all the historical parts (the textile industry) fascinating and thought-provoking over the history of making material to later be made into clothes.
For characters: I loved Kate and her backbone. Henry is very moral, but truly both main characters were, which was very refreshing and came across well. I will admit that it was odd to see Frederica’s POV, but I’m thinking that maybe she’ll have her own book? Oooh, Mollie too, please!
I do have to mention about the writing style was different then I can recall seeing before. Chapters wouldn’t switch back-and-forth between the main couple like the majority of “romance” books do. Instead it’s a bit of his POV, then a bit of her POV, just the right amount each time. Odd to comment on, but I really liked that.
I wish that there had been more faith content shown, mainly at times when Kate & Henry could have prayed over the danger within these pages, but it was an engaging read.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Thomas Nelson) for this honest review.
“Kate's loyalties bind her to the past.
Henry's loyalties compel him to strive for a better future.
In a landscape torn between tradition and vision, can two souls find the strength to overcome their preconceptions?
Loyalty has been at the heart of the Dearborne family for as long as Kate can remember, but a war is brewing in their small village, one that has the power to rip families asunder --including her own. As misguided actions are brought to light, she learns how deep her father's pride and bitterness run, and she begins to wonder if her loyalty is well-placed.
Henry Stockton, heir to the Stockton fortune, returns home from three years at war seeking refuge from his haunting memories. Determined to bury the past, he embraces his grandfather's goals to modernize his family's wool mill, regardless of the grumblings from the local weavers. When tragedy strikes shortly after his arrival, Henry must sort truth from suspicion if he is to protect his family's livelihood and legacy.
Henry has been warned about the Dearborne family. Kate, too, has been advised to stay far away from the Stocktons, but chance meetings continue to bring her to Henry's side, blurring the jagged lines between loyalty, justice, and truth. Kate ultimately finds herself with the powerful decision that will forever affect her village's future. As unlikely adversaries, Henry and Kate must come together to find a way to create peace for their families, and their village, and their souls - even if it means risking their hearts in the process.”
Series: As of now, no.
Spiritual Content- Church going; Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; Mentions of churches, church going, services, & ministers; A few mentions of prayers & thanking God; A few mentions of miracles; A mention of a prayer book; A mention of sin;
*Note: Mentions of ghosts & a man is called one; A few mentions of a man’s demons; A couple mentions of superstitious & evil.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blast’, a ‘drat’, an ‘idiot’, a ‘what in blazes’, a ‘what in heaven’s name’, two ‘Egad’s, two ‘la’s, and two ‘stupid’s; A few mentions of curses (said, not written); A bit of sarcasm; Finding a murdered body of a family member & blood (up to semi-detailed); A carriage accident, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Fighting, gunshots, fires, vandalism, & shooting (to harm, not kill) another (semi-detailed); Seeing a fight/brawl, injuries, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of a war, horrors, battles, fighting, beatings, being shot at, being stabbed, blood/bleeding, seeing others dying, & deaths (barely-above-not-detailed); Many mentions of fires, smoke, carriage accident, fight/brawls, being shot, injuries, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of violence, attacks, crimes, threats of killing and harm, & vandalism; Mentions of a murder, murderer, the body, how it happened, blood, stabbings, & gunshots (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths through fevers; Mentions of hangings & the acts that lead to being hung; Mentions of a work accident, injuries, blood/bleeding, & pain (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of hatred; Mentions of drinking, alcohol, & drunks; Mentions of pipes, tobacco, & smoking; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of nightmares; A few mentions of duels; A few mentions of jail/prison; A couple mentions of bars.
Sexual Content- a forehead kiss, and two semi-detailed kisses; Remembering a kiss (up to semi-detailed); Thinking about kissing someone (does not happen); Touches, Warmth, & Recalling touches (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing & Smelling (barely-above-not-detailed, x2); Mentions of Henry’s sister’s pregnancy out of wedlock (no details on how it happened); Mentions of a kiss & kissing (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of flirting, flirts, & people throwing themselves at the opposite gender; Mentions of scandals, reputations, & chaperones; A few mentions of a man looking at Kate with desire (it’s unsaid what kind of desire it is); A few mentions of blushes; A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of men fraternizing with unmarried women; A mention of a woman using her feminine charms on a man; A mention of men ogling a woman; A mention of men staring at a woman hungerly; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Mentions of childbirth pain & mothers dying in childbirth; A couple mentions of dresses accentuating a woman’s curves.
-Kate Dearborne, age 21
-Henry Stockton, age 25
P.O.V. switches between them & Frederica (x4)
Set in 1812 (Prologue in 1801)
350 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
I’ve actually read all of this author’s other books, but I have to say I enjoyed this one the most due to the substance in it. There’s a lot more drama in this book than I was expecting, based on the cover. I found all the historical parts (the textile industry) fascinating and thought-provoking over the history of making material to later be made into clothes.
For characters: I loved Kate and her backbone. Henry is very moral, but truly both main characters were, which was very refreshing and came across well. I will admit that it was odd to see Frederica’s POV, but I’m thinking that maybe she’ll have her own book? Oooh, Mollie too, please!
I do have to mention about the writing style was different then I can recall seeing before. Chapters wouldn’t switch back-and-forth between the main couple like the majority of “romance” books do. Instead it’s a bit of his POV, then a bit of her POV, just the right amount each time. Odd to comment on, but I really liked that.
I wish that there had been more faith content shown, mainly at times when Kate & Henry could have prayed over the danger within these pages, but it was an engaging read.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Thomas Nelson) for this honest review.
January 27, 2020
Meet Kate Dearborne and Henry Stockton. Two people from opposing worlds. Kate is from a family firmly built on generations who had made their living as weavers; Henry Stockton, the grandson to the man who brought in mills and equipment to produce materials much faster than any weaver could. Both are loyal, but not to a fault. Their love of truth and seeing the enmity between the weavers and millers with a compassionate eye is what pulls the story through with perfect tension and pacing.
Some special moments that I personally enjoyed in this story were the Winter’s End Festival, Kate’s pet sheep named Ivy, multiple quotes and phrases worth underlining and highlighting, the wintery setting, the theme of truth and forgiveness, and
of course, the sweet romance.
The Weavers Daughter will easily be added to my personal list of books that I wish were made into movies.
Quote: “Everyone makes mistakes in their life. It is how you respond to them and learn from them that matters.” ~ Henry Stockton
Some special moments that I personally enjoyed in this story were the Winter’s End Festival, Kate’s pet sheep named Ivy, multiple quotes and phrases worth underlining and highlighting, the wintery setting, the theme of truth and forgiveness, and
of course, the sweet romance.
The Weavers Daughter will easily be added to my personal list of books that I wish were made into movies.
Quote: “Everyone makes mistakes in their life. It is how you respond to them and learn from them that matters.” ~ Henry Stockton
May 8, 2018
I loved the feeling of being immersed in the setting as I read this book! The author wove in details of the weavers, mills, and the politics of both sides without becoming boring, rather it enhanced the plot and showed insights into the characters and the hard work they tackled. It reminded me very much of the BBC miniseries of North and South, with industry being at the forefront of everyone's lives. Kate is a strong woman who has been raised participating in the work of the weavers, but as she is ready to take on more responsibility, she finds that her father and others only see her value in marrying to strengthen the weavers' position. She struggles with the conflict between her stubborn father and her brother Charles who has chosen to work as an accountant for the mill owners. I loved her relationship with her brother and felt bad that they were being made to choose between the life they grew up with and a brighter future. Her unlikely friendship with Henry was so sweet and as he continually shows his compassion and kindness, her eyes are opened to new possibilities for the community. The story has a steady pace as tensions mount and conflicts arise, and I was surprised by how far the weavers' protests went. I appreciated the history and learning more about this difficult time of change and transition and how it affected families and communities.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
April 4, 2018
4.5*
Today was a fabulous day! I was able to dive into this book and become immersed in the lives and culture of the weavers and millworkers of Amberdale, Yorkshire, England. The tension was palpable, the strife was straining at the seams, ready to burst and be set aflame with only the slightest spark of anger.
With progress comes change. Often, that change means loss of livelihoods for skilled, hard workers. That is exactly what is happening, and has been happening for many years in this little mill town. When the demands for product increase and the ability to meet those demands comes at the price of new equipment, less men to work the equipment and less pay going out, it is hard to ignore progress. Yet how can you ignore the people who have become like family, whom you work with day in and day out for years on end?
I loved the prologue. It was a great way to set up a glimpse 10 years prior to the main story, and the frustrations starting, by showing an incident that truly fueled hurt and anger. Yet, I loved having that glimpse of a certain character and then watching that character throughout the whole novel. The choices made and the growth brought on by the goodness and mercy of this character. I should probably include loving heart as well as goodness and mercy when describing said character. I could also tell you who the character is. You've probably already guessed that it is one of the main characters and you'd be correct. Kate. From the beginning setup of the story and her plight, the reader is connected emotionally to her through her hurt, her loss, her ache, her anger. Then throughout the book we watch as she evolves and grows. Becoming better than she began. While all around her is churning turmoil and anger being stirred up and fueled by greed.
How long can anger and feuds, past hurts and wrongs last? Especially without it eating away at you? Changing you. Affecting all those around you. What would you do to protect the ones you love? How long can going to any length to protect everything around you not completely change and make you unrecognizable to loved ones. Everyone is affected, especially in a small village where everyone relies on each other. When lines are drawn, which side do you stand on? When loved ones are on either side, what then? Do you try to cover up past mistakes or do you be truthful and honest even with the repercussions that are sure to come? Will peace, redemption and love ever be attainable again?
Just a handful of questions for you to think about and all questions that pertain to so many characters throughout this book. It was very well written. I loved the themes of redemption and change and also of not forgiving. Sarah E. Ladd is very skilled in writing flawed characters who endear themselves to the reader, leaving us wishing, hoping and even silently cheering them on in their progression. We're hoping for good to prevail and for love to conquer all. The suspense and sorrow build with a sweet resolution and peace. Yes, if you can't tell, this is a Christian Fiction novel. It wasn't preachy but woven gently throughout the story of everyday characters living their lives and interacting with other as flawed characters.
Henry Stockton. He returns to the mill of his childhood. The mill where he left many lingering questions behind, only to return with haunting memories of war. What he returns to isn't peaceful. It's struggle and loss and sorrow. He must learn to navigate it all, keep the peace if possible and try to find peace in his own personal demons. There isn't a lot of emphasis on any particular demon he's dealing with from being at war.
Kate is torn. She's loyal to her family. But what happens when that family is on both sides of the struggle? She must choose between family, and decide where to place her loyalty. Or does she sidestep it all, abandoning everything? Or does she choose to do what's right? With the pressure from all sides, friends, family, her heart and sorrows from the past, Kate finds herself torn as to what to do. Yet she could be the means of peace and good if only her family will listen. The weavers and millers must find a way to stop this feud before more heartache and loss ensue.
I really enjoyed this story. Anytime Sarah E. Ladd has a new book coming out, I jump for joy. I love her writing style and her stories. If you're looking for a great read I highly recommend this one, or any of her novels. I took off half a star because there were some aspects that were built up throughout the story that didn't resolve, or really just petered out. Aspects that I felt could have been explored a little bit more and develop a little more tension to the story. Don't get me wrong. There was tension, but I would have liked to have these aspects add a little more dimension to the tension. Overall, I enjoyed my time immensely while reading about these characters. The love story is sweet and builds gently throughout the book. Henry's just swell! I am looking forward to seeing if she gives a couple other characters in this book their own story and continues on with this series.
Content: Clean. Some remembrances from war, some fighting and gunshots. A murder. No sexual content. This is a Christian Fiction read as I mentioned above in my review but very well written and appropriate for this time period.
I received a copy from the publisher, Thomas Nelson, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Today was a fabulous day! I was able to dive into this book and become immersed in the lives and culture of the weavers and millworkers of Amberdale, Yorkshire, England. The tension was palpable, the strife was straining at the seams, ready to burst and be set aflame with only the slightest spark of anger.
With progress comes change. Often, that change means loss of livelihoods for skilled, hard workers. That is exactly what is happening, and has been happening for many years in this little mill town. When the demands for product increase and the ability to meet those demands comes at the price of new equipment, less men to work the equipment and less pay going out, it is hard to ignore progress. Yet how can you ignore the people who have become like family, whom you work with day in and day out for years on end?
I loved the prologue. It was a great way to set up a glimpse 10 years prior to the main story, and the frustrations starting, by showing an incident that truly fueled hurt and anger. Yet, I loved having that glimpse of a certain character and then watching that character throughout the whole novel. The choices made and the growth brought on by the goodness and mercy of this character. I should probably include loving heart as well as goodness and mercy when describing said character. I could also tell you who the character is. You've probably already guessed that it is one of the main characters and you'd be correct. Kate. From the beginning setup of the story and her plight, the reader is connected emotionally to her through her hurt, her loss, her ache, her anger. Then throughout the book we watch as she evolves and grows. Becoming better than she began. While all around her is churning turmoil and anger being stirred up and fueled by greed.
How long can anger and feuds, past hurts and wrongs last? Especially without it eating away at you? Changing you. Affecting all those around you. What would you do to protect the ones you love? How long can going to any length to protect everything around you not completely change and make you unrecognizable to loved ones. Everyone is affected, especially in a small village where everyone relies on each other. When lines are drawn, which side do you stand on? When loved ones are on either side, what then? Do you try to cover up past mistakes or do you be truthful and honest even with the repercussions that are sure to come? Will peace, redemption and love ever be attainable again?
Just a handful of questions for you to think about and all questions that pertain to so many characters throughout this book. It was very well written. I loved the themes of redemption and change and also of not forgiving. Sarah E. Ladd is very skilled in writing flawed characters who endear themselves to the reader, leaving us wishing, hoping and even silently cheering them on in their progression. We're hoping for good to prevail and for love to conquer all. The suspense and sorrow build with a sweet resolution and peace. Yes, if you can't tell, this is a Christian Fiction novel. It wasn't preachy but woven gently throughout the story of everyday characters living their lives and interacting with other as flawed characters.
Henry Stockton. He returns to the mill of his childhood. The mill where he left many lingering questions behind, only to return with haunting memories of war. What he returns to isn't peaceful. It's struggle and loss and sorrow. He must learn to navigate it all, keep the peace if possible and try to find peace in his own personal demons. There isn't a lot of emphasis on any particular demon he's dealing with from being at war.
Kate is torn. She's loyal to her family. But what happens when that family is on both sides of the struggle? She must choose between family, and decide where to place her loyalty. Or does she sidestep it all, abandoning everything? Or does she choose to do what's right? With the pressure from all sides, friends, family, her heart and sorrows from the past, Kate finds herself torn as to what to do. Yet she could be the means of peace and good if only her family will listen. The weavers and millers must find a way to stop this feud before more heartache and loss ensue.
I really enjoyed this story. Anytime Sarah E. Ladd has a new book coming out, I jump for joy. I love her writing style and her stories. If you're looking for a great read I highly recommend this one, or any of her novels. I took off half a star because there were some aspects that were built up throughout the story that didn't resolve, or really just petered out. Aspects that I felt could have been explored a little bit more and develop a little more tension to the story. Don't get me wrong. There was tension, but I would have liked to have these aspects add a little more dimension to the tension. Overall, I enjoyed my time immensely while reading about these characters. The love story is sweet and builds gently throughout the book. Henry's just swell! I am looking forward to seeing if she gives a couple other characters in this book their own story and continues on with this series.
Content: Clean. Some remembrances from war, some fighting and gunshots. A murder. No sexual content. This is a Christian Fiction read as I mentioned above in my review but very well written and appropriate for this time period.
I received a copy from the publisher, Thomas Nelson, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
January 9, 2020
What drew me to this book was it's beautiful cover. Goodreads' friends reviews and ravings about this book and author pushed me to try this new-to-me-author.
I love stories set in the regency area and this one was another great story. Add to this the action and suspense, Romeo and Juliet romance and a twist I did not see coming at the end, this is probably one of my favaourite regency stories. I am not sure if all of this author's books as a suspense element to it (I am hoping it does), but if it does I can see Sara E. Ladd becoming a favourite for this genre and era.
The characters and their paths in this story was also greatly developed and both Kate's empathy towards other, her independence and internal struggle between her father, her brother and Henry made for a strong female character. Henry's own struggles with his experience in the war and trying to make his family's business a success as well as do what is right, made for a strong hero.
There was also a lot of side characters to love and hate with their own pains, mistakes, attitudes and consuming zeal for their agenda.
The romance had a slow development pace which I loved because it didn't overwhelm the relationships between all the characters or the mystery/suspense plot.
Narrator: I listened to the audiobook and love the narrator. She did great in giving each character his or her own voice and made for a very entertaining story.
I love stories set in the regency area and this one was another great story. Add to this the action and suspense, Romeo and Juliet romance and a twist I did not see coming at the end, this is probably one of my favaourite regency stories. I am not sure if all of this author's books as a suspense element to it (I am hoping it does), but if it does I can see Sara E. Ladd becoming a favourite for this genre and era.
The characters and their paths in this story was also greatly developed and both Kate's empathy towards other, her independence and internal struggle between her father, her brother and Henry made for a strong female character. Henry's own struggles with his experience in the war and trying to make his family's business a success as well as do what is right, made for a strong hero.
There was also a lot of side characters to love and hate with their own pains, mistakes, attitudes and consuming zeal for their agenda.
The romance had a slow development pace which I loved because it didn't overwhelm the relationships between all the characters or the mystery/suspense plot.
Narrator: I listened to the audiobook and love the narrator. She did great in giving each character his or her own voice and made for a very entertaining story.
January 22, 2018
Fueled with pride, prejudice and selfishness and then combated with giving, serving and loving others unconditionally is how I would sum this book up! It describes people’s fear of technology even in the 1800’s and the wave of the future and their livelihood.
Kate Dearborne is the weaver’s daughter. She helps out doing everything to make cloth. She has been doing this all her life. But the Stockton’s have money and have changed the way things are done and it is taking away jobs with the technology. It also has small children doing simple tasks. Kate’s father does well but times are changing and men do foolish things when threatened with their livelihood. Kate’s brother Charles now works for the Stocktons. He is no longer welcome at home and his father doesn’t speak to him. Kate loves them both and sees her brother often.
Henry is the grandson and heir to the Stockton legacy. He left for three years and fought a war. He comes back changed. He has nightmares and his perception in life has changed. His once possible future wife is just not what he is looking for or wants anymore. He doesn’t want someone who is fickle or drama laden. He wants someone caring and serving and someone like Kate. As they run into each other often, they both find that they both have the same goals and aspirations in life. He listens to her and tries to make changes based on what she suggests but is met with opposition due to the same pride,prejudice and selfishness and lack of forgiveness in his “enemies”.
As time moves forward, things go from bad to worse and people’s lives and livelihoods are tested and hurt. Kate is made to decide where her loyalties are and she can’t decide when it could mean people could be hurt.
What I like is that this is like Romeo and Juliet. Except with better outcomes. People have to learn to grow and continue to be kind and humble and open and serve others and then you will be happy no matter how things might turn out! It helps that Kate and Henry are so darn cute for each other. And even in Henry’s home there is turmoil.
If you like books that make you think, forgiveness, doing the right thing, protecting what is yours, telling the truth and righting wrongs, babies, finding your match in life, pride, prejudice, and a good book then this might be for you.
Kate Dearborne is the weaver’s daughter. She helps out doing everything to make cloth. She has been doing this all her life. But the Stockton’s have money and have changed the way things are done and it is taking away jobs with the technology. It also has small children doing simple tasks. Kate’s father does well but times are changing and men do foolish things when threatened with their livelihood. Kate’s brother Charles now works for the Stocktons. He is no longer welcome at home and his father doesn’t speak to him. Kate loves them both and sees her brother often.
Henry is the grandson and heir to the Stockton legacy. He left for three years and fought a war. He comes back changed. He has nightmares and his perception in life has changed. His once possible future wife is just not what he is looking for or wants anymore. He doesn’t want someone who is fickle or drama laden. He wants someone caring and serving and someone like Kate. As they run into each other often, they both find that they both have the same goals and aspirations in life. He listens to her and tries to make changes based on what she suggests but is met with opposition due to the same pride,prejudice and selfishness and lack of forgiveness in his “enemies”.
As time moves forward, things go from bad to worse and people’s lives and livelihoods are tested and hurt. Kate is made to decide where her loyalties are and she can’t decide when it could mean people could be hurt.
What I like is that this is like Romeo and Juliet. Except with better outcomes. People have to learn to grow and continue to be kind and humble and open and serve others and then you will be happy no matter how things might turn out! It helps that Kate and Henry are so darn cute for each other. And even in Henry’s home there is turmoil.
“Everyone makes mistakes in their life. It is how you respond to them and learn from them that matters.”
If you like books that make you think, forgiveness, doing the right thing, protecting what is yours, telling the truth and righting wrongs, babies, finding your match in life, pride, prejudice, and a good book then this might be for you.
May 25, 2018
"The Weaver's Daughter" by Sarah Ladd is a Regency story full of feuding families and forbidden love. It has a Romeo and Juliet feel to it that readers will love! Lovers of historical fiction and the Regency will find a lot to appreciate in this new novel by Ms. Ladd.
Ms. Ladd excels in her attention to historical detail and her descriptions of the time period and setting. She gives great depictions of the village and English country side. This is not the normal Regency of high society, drawing rooms and balls. Rather it brings the reader to the everyday lives of the working class. I learned a lot about mills and the weavers of the time period while reading. The pace is a little slower with some lengthier descriptions of the mills that some readers may find to be more tedious. I still highly enjoyed the book and it’s nice to have a change of pace once in a while.
Ms. Ladd also writes her characters in a relatable way. The two main characters are flawed, yet loveable. Kate, our heroine, wants to help her father with his business, but he chooses others to help instead of her. He thinks she should tend to things in the cottage and dye house and be more of a lady. She has spent her life around the business. Her father thinks she needs to marry another weaver and marry for security. It’s all about loyalty and staying in the family business. Yet Kate is strong willed and not afraid to stand up for herself.
Henry, the hero, is a man who has been to war and is trying to reconcile the horrors he experienced in war to everyday life in his village. He also realizes he’s now entered a new war zone; one between the millers and weavers. I like that Henry realizes that the things he thought mattered before the war–a beautiful wife, possessions and power–don’t really matter. Now he wants safety, security, happiness, justice, hope and forgiveness. He is such a kind man. He and Kate are caught in the middle of their families’ battles.
Can these star crossed lovers be together? Will they forgo loyalty to their family for love? You will just have to read to find out!
Content: This is a clean read with a PG rating for some mild content. Some examples of the content are: men drink ale; talk of brandy and smoking a pipe; talk that a woman has disgraced herself by getting pregnant out of wedlock; a man uses snuff; it is said that a man curses, but the words are not actually written; a man seems to have PTSD from war.
Rating: I give this book 4 stars.
Genre: Christian fiction; Historical fiction; Romance; Regency
I want to thank Sarah Ladd, Thomas Nelson and the Fiction Guild for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
Ms. Ladd excels in her attention to historical detail and her descriptions of the time period and setting. She gives great depictions of the village and English country side. This is not the normal Regency of high society, drawing rooms and balls. Rather it brings the reader to the everyday lives of the working class. I learned a lot about mills and the weavers of the time period while reading. The pace is a little slower with some lengthier descriptions of the mills that some readers may find to be more tedious. I still highly enjoyed the book and it’s nice to have a change of pace once in a while.
Ms. Ladd also writes her characters in a relatable way. The two main characters are flawed, yet loveable. Kate, our heroine, wants to help her father with his business, but he chooses others to help instead of her. He thinks she should tend to things in the cottage and dye house and be more of a lady. She has spent her life around the business. Her father thinks she needs to marry another weaver and marry for security. It’s all about loyalty and staying in the family business. Yet Kate is strong willed and not afraid to stand up for herself.
Henry, the hero, is a man who has been to war and is trying to reconcile the horrors he experienced in war to everyday life in his village. He also realizes he’s now entered a new war zone; one between the millers and weavers. I like that Henry realizes that the things he thought mattered before the war–a beautiful wife, possessions and power–don’t really matter. Now he wants safety, security, happiness, justice, hope and forgiveness. He is such a kind man. He and Kate are caught in the middle of their families’ battles.
Can these star crossed lovers be together? Will they forgo loyalty to their family for love? You will just have to read to find out!
Content: This is a clean read with a PG rating for some mild content. Some examples of the content are: men drink ale; talk of brandy and smoking a pipe; talk that a woman has disgraced herself by getting pregnant out of wedlock; a man uses snuff; it is said that a man curses, but the words are not actually written; a man seems to have PTSD from war.
Rating: I give this book 4 stars.
Genre: Christian fiction; Historical fiction; Romance; Regency
I want to thank Sarah Ladd, Thomas Nelson and the Fiction Guild for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
April 26, 2018
I have read every book that this author has written. They are always enjoyable novels that have fully immersed me in the time period. But I can say, without a doubt, that The Weaver’s Daughter is definitely my favorite book by Sarah E. Ladd that I have read so far.
These characters! Oh My! I just loved them, especially Henry Stockton. My heart hurt for him so much for many reasons as I read through the book. He suffered a lot during the war and was plagued with guilt and trauma from that experience. His noble character was evident in the way he treated his sister, as well as his care and growing feelings toward Kate. Henry was a special man indeed.
This novel had great romantic chemistry between Henry and Kate, wonderful historical detail, and a thread of danger that kept me thoroughly engrossed in the story to the very last page.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
These characters! Oh My! I just loved them, especially Henry Stockton. My heart hurt for him so much for many reasons as I read through the book. He suffered a lot during the war and was plagued with guilt and trauma from that experience. His noble character was evident in the way he treated his sister, as well as his care and growing feelings toward Kate. Henry was a special man indeed.
This novel had great romantic chemistry between Henry and Kate, wonderful historical detail, and a thread of danger that kept me thoroughly engrossed in the story to the very last page.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
April 26, 2018
I love Sarah Ladd’s regency novels, and The Weaver’s Daughter is no different. She’s set this novel in the period of the weavers’ rebellion as mills are automating the production of cloth. The heroine is caught between the traditions of the weavers and the restrictions placed on women. The hero just wants to forget the war he’s returned from. Together they are caught betwixt and between the mores of their time, the clash of industry, and the tug of love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book with its rich historical conflict and a romance that is sweet and Star-crossed from the beginning.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book with its rich historical conflict and a romance that is sweet and Star-crossed from the beginning.
March 18, 2018
Originally posted on Reveries Reviews.
Title: The Weaver’s Daughter
Author: Sarah E. Ladd
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Era: Regency
Setting: mid-England countryside
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Source: from Netgalley (in exchange for an honest review)
Overall Rating: 3/5 stars
The Weaver’s Daughter by Sarah E. Ladd is a beyond amazing book with a serious moral issue. That may sound harsh, but that’s the only way to describe it. This review may offend some of y’all, but I’ve got to be truthful about my convictions, so here goes.
I still have some very positive things to say about this book. It was quite well-done. Beautiful writing, interesting setting, intriguing plot, and awesome characters. This book has it all … except that one subplot.
I’m again abandoning my regular format because this is a review that defies structure. I need to be able to talk freely.
It was really a five-star novel. From the tension between the up-and-coming mills and the old-fashioned weavers, to the (forbidden) romance between Kate and Henry, to Kate’s relationship with her father and on and on … beautiful.
It progressed smoothly, kept my attention, had an interesting mystery and a lot of excitement, and was reminiscent of North and South (only I actually like the characters and plot and all a lot better than North and South, shoot me).
Also, am I the only one who is just like: YAY MILLS YAY PROGRESS LET’S BOOT THOSE SLOW WEAVERS OUT OF HERE AND ACTUALLY GET SOME WORK DONE!? Because this is how I feel … 😛
Also, all the weavers are complete jerks. Some of the mill folks are jerks, too, but the weavers were extra special jerks.
The whole setting was so excellent. The description really got me wrapped up in the book, combined with the excellent characters. Henry was my favorite, while Catherine’s brother and Catherine herself ran close second and third. Catherine’s dad was a jerk. #nuffsaid
The only problem was the subplot I mentioned earlier. Now, there are some mild spoilers in this next section, but since they are so mild they probably aren’t even spoilers in some ways, I won’t bother to mark them as such. Also, I hope y’all Christian readers will choose not to read this book, so it doesn’t really matter.
Molly, Henry’s younger sister, got pregnant out of wedlock … and Henry as well as Catherine act like this is perfectly okay (as do all the “good guy” characters).
Molly wants to keep her pregnancy a secret and comes up with a lie to cover up (understandable, considering the fact that she is going to be thrown off the earth once Regency society finds out), but all the characters are vehement that Molly needs to tell the truth.
And once she tells the truth the consequences of her sin (YES I SAID THE S-WORD) will go away?
Her lie is a worse sin that her sleeping with a man while unmarried and conceiving a child by him?
I am just so steamed about this that I’m getting angry again as I type.
Yes, forgiveness is very important … but only if the sinner is repentant. Because that’s what Molly is. A sinner. And I know we’re all sinners … but just ’cause we’re all sinners doesn’t mean that sin is okay.
It’s never okay.
If Molly’s lie wasn’t “a mistake” or “a temporary lapse of judgment,” neither was her fornication. (The pregnancy isn’t really the problem morally, just to clarify; let it never be said that a pregnancy is anything but a gift. Though it might seem like a consequence.)
This entire book treats anyone who judges Molly for her fornication like scum. But … that’s wrong. Judging people is wrong, and no sin is any worse than the other (as far as getting one into Hell and making you need Jesus, that is), but … that doesn’t make sin okay.
Also, even though we don’t have a right to judge anyone, of course, Molly will get judged. All the characters are living in this fantasy world where, if Molly is honest about her sin, then nothing bad will happen.
Er, excuse me? Regency England, anyone? Welcome to the 19th century? Molly is going to suffer for this for the rest of her life. Henry (and everyone) sheltering her from this fact is gonna do her no good.
Nor is acting like everything’s going to be okay, Mr. Protective Big Brother. Dear Henry, your sister cannot just move past this. Sin is never gonna just go away unless you confront it. And though Molly is perhaps very sorry she conceived, even sorry she gave away her virtue, she is definitely not thinking of it on the level of sin.
More like an impropriety or an inconvenience of sorts. But what God thinks is what matters … not what society thinks.
I get where the author was going. She wanted to show that fornication is not a worse sin than any other sin as far as salvation goes – or that’s my best guess.
But you can’t go about that by making lying seem a lot worse than it is and making fornication similar to dropping a plate on the floor. (Which would be a mistake.) (Unless you threw that plate at someone’s head.) (That’s concussioning thy neighbor.) (Or something to that effect.)
CONTENT: 4/5
Language: n/a
Violence: men are shot and killed or badly wounded, one man murdered in cold blood, others killed during a violent attack on the mill. Some talk about blood, treatment of wounds, etc. A brawl at a public dance leads to many a split lip.
Sexual: a semi-detailed account of childbearing. Molly has a child out of wedlock and this is treated as a ‘temporary lapse of judgment,’ a ‘mistake,’ and a ‘scandal’ but not as sin which it is (see my whole rant ^^). A couple kisses, a bit detailed.
Other: MOLLY LIES HEAVEN FORBID THAT MOLLY LIES OH NO WHAT SHALL WE DO!?!?!?!?! Lies are such a terrible sin … worse than any other, in fact …
Not recommended for readers under sixteen unless they are discerning and won’t be strayed by the confirmation of sin.
OVERALL: 3/5
I’m sorry, but I cannot and will not recommend this book to any Christian reader. Secular readers might enjoy it, as it is a great (5-star!) book except for the Molly fiasco. But Christian readers shouldn’t allow this kind of thing in their fiction. It’s abominable.
Review by Kellyn Roth of Reveries Reviews
Title: The Weaver’s Daughter
Author: Sarah E. Ladd
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Era: Regency
Setting: mid-England countryside
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Source: from Netgalley (in exchange for an honest review)
Overall Rating: 3/5 stars
The Weaver’s Daughter by Sarah E. Ladd is a beyond amazing book with a serious moral issue. That may sound harsh, but that’s the only way to describe it. This review may offend some of y’all, but I’ve got to be truthful about my convictions, so here goes.
I still have some very positive things to say about this book. It was quite well-done. Beautiful writing, interesting setting, intriguing plot, and awesome characters. This book has it all … except that one subplot.
I’m again abandoning my regular format because this is a review that defies structure. I need to be able to talk freely.
It was really a five-star novel. From the tension between the up-and-coming mills and the old-fashioned weavers, to the (forbidden) romance between Kate and Henry, to Kate’s relationship with her father and on and on … beautiful.
It progressed smoothly, kept my attention, had an interesting mystery and a lot of excitement, and was reminiscent of North and South (only I actually like the characters and plot and all a lot better than North and South, shoot me).
Also, am I the only one who is just like: YAY MILLS YAY PROGRESS LET’S BOOT THOSE SLOW WEAVERS OUT OF HERE AND ACTUALLY GET SOME WORK DONE!? Because this is how I feel … 😛
Also, all the weavers are complete jerks. Some of the mill folks are jerks, too, but the weavers were extra special jerks.
The whole setting was so excellent. The description really got me wrapped up in the book, combined with the excellent characters. Henry was my favorite, while Catherine’s brother and Catherine herself ran close second and third. Catherine’s dad was a jerk. #nuffsaid
The only problem was the subplot I mentioned earlier. Now, there are some mild spoilers in this next section, but since they are so mild they probably aren’t even spoilers in some ways, I won’t bother to mark them as such. Also, I hope y’all Christian readers will choose not to read this book, so it doesn’t really matter.
Molly, Henry’s younger sister, got pregnant out of wedlock … and Henry as well as Catherine act like this is perfectly okay (as do all the “good guy” characters).
Molly wants to keep her pregnancy a secret and comes up with a lie to cover up (understandable, considering the fact that she is going to be thrown off the earth once Regency society finds out), but all the characters are vehement that Molly needs to tell the truth.
And once she tells the truth the consequences of her sin (YES I SAID THE S-WORD) will go away?
Her lie is a worse sin that her sleeping with a man while unmarried and conceiving a child by him?
I am just so steamed about this that I’m getting angry again as I type.
Yes, forgiveness is very important … but only if the sinner is repentant. Because that’s what Molly is. A sinner. And I know we’re all sinners … but just ’cause we’re all sinners doesn’t mean that sin is okay.
It’s never okay.
If Molly’s lie wasn’t “a mistake” or “a temporary lapse of judgment,” neither was her fornication. (The pregnancy isn’t really the problem morally, just to clarify; let it never be said that a pregnancy is anything but a gift. Though it might seem like a consequence.)
This entire book treats anyone who judges Molly for her fornication like scum. But … that’s wrong. Judging people is wrong, and no sin is any worse than the other (as far as getting one into Hell and making you need Jesus, that is), but … that doesn’t make sin okay.
Also, even though we don’t have a right to judge anyone, of course, Molly will get judged. All the characters are living in this fantasy world where, if Molly is honest about her sin, then nothing bad will happen.
Er, excuse me? Regency England, anyone? Welcome to the 19th century? Molly is going to suffer for this for the rest of her life. Henry (and everyone) sheltering her from this fact is gonna do her no good.
Nor is acting like everything’s going to be okay, Mr. Protective Big Brother. Dear Henry, your sister cannot just move past this. Sin is never gonna just go away unless you confront it. And though Molly is perhaps very sorry she conceived, even sorry she gave away her virtue, she is definitely not thinking of it on the level of sin.
More like an impropriety or an inconvenience of sorts. But what God thinks is what matters … not what society thinks.
I get where the author was going. She wanted to show that fornication is not a worse sin than any other sin as far as salvation goes – or that’s my best guess.
But you can’t go about that by making lying seem a lot worse than it is and making fornication similar to dropping a plate on the floor. (Which would be a mistake.) (Unless you threw that plate at someone’s head.) (That’s concussioning thy neighbor.) (Or something to that effect.)
CONTENT: 4/5
Language: n/a
Violence: men are shot and killed or badly wounded, one man murdered in cold blood, others killed during a violent attack on the mill. Some talk about blood, treatment of wounds, etc. A brawl at a public dance leads to many a split lip.
Sexual: a semi-detailed account of childbearing. Molly has a child out of wedlock and this is treated as a ‘temporary lapse of judgment,’ a ‘mistake,’ and a ‘scandal’ but not as sin which it is (see my whole rant ^^). A couple kisses, a bit detailed.
Other: MOLLY LIES HEAVEN FORBID THAT MOLLY LIES OH NO WHAT SHALL WE DO!?!?!?!?! Lies are such a terrible sin … worse than any other, in fact …
Not recommended for readers under sixteen unless they are discerning and won’t be strayed by the confirmation of sin.
OVERALL: 3/5
I’m sorry, but I cannot and will not recommend this book to any Christian reader. Secular readers might enjoy it, as it is a great (5-star!) book except for the Molly fiasco. But Christian readers shouldn’t allow this kind of thing in their fiction. It’s abominable.
Review by Kellyn Roth of Reveries Reviews
February 3, 2020
This historical Christian romance novel was well written with great character development. I found the plot to be particularly interesting, being set in the midst of a feud between traditional weavers and "modern" millers. So, I really enjoyed this novel, and I think that a sequel to this novel would be appropriate as well as fantastic, since the ending was open enough to allow for it. Anyway, this was the second novel that I have read by Sarah E. Ladd, and I am really glad that I have found her books this year because the ones that I have read so far have been great.
April 3, 2018
Are you looking for a consistent reliable author for clean regency fiction? Then look no further. Sarah Ladd is one of the best when it comes to unique and new plots, well developed characters and an engaging storyline.
The Weaver's Daughter is no exception. This is a tale of two families that have been at odds for many years, not only that, they are being torn apart from within. As industry is transforming in the region, the need for weavers is shrinking. Understandably as the Mills switch to more advanced machinery the traditional laborers in the Yorkshire Moors, are finding themselves out of work, and resorting to desperate measures. They are lashing out in illegal and violent ways as they try to destroy the Mills in the area. Silas Dearborne has been a master weaver his entire life and has already lost one son, whom he considers a traitor of the worst kind, to the Stockton Mill. His daughter Kate, is loyal, smart and true and has judged the Stocktons to be the worst kind of people.
Though he has been presumed dead in the war, heir to the Mill, Henry Stockton is back in Amberdale and the news has spread fast. Under pressure from his grandfather, and the Pennington's (the other wealthy Mill owners in the area), it doesn't take long for Henry to realise he has changed, and the things that used to matter to him are fading into the distance.
As Kate and Henry negotiate their respective circumstances, they find their situations are not all that dissimilar. Desperate to prove themselves to their respective family heads, they find that stubbornness rules.
Will Kate soften towards her brother Charles reasoning for leaving a dying trade to work for what he calls the 'future' in the Mill, and in turn give Henry a chance? Will Henry be able to get through to his Grandfather, and the weavers of the village and find ways to compromise?
As tensions escalate, Henry and Kate find themselves coming together despite the climate of conflict.
I loved the real history that Sarah always pulls into the story. It's interesting to note that whenever change comes along there will always be that need to accept and adapt. It'll never be without its challenges - in this case, the people lost livelihoods. Skills long valued become useless. Though many could now find employment in the Mill, it's clear the conditions were harsh. The hours long. The pressure to send their young children in also, and the abuse of that by some Mill owners a real problem. Even though the weavers choose a path that appears fruitless and dangerous, you will feel great empathy for their plight. Sarah does a great job of reaching across the barriers and allowing the reading to clearly see both sides of the difficulties being presented and taking you to a place of genuine concern for all.
There is a fairly size able group of characters, who all play a significant part. The mystery over Henry's sister Mollie, was intriguing and I'm hoping she gets a story next. I liked the lightness she brought to the serious storyline, despite the situation she has found herself in. Charles also would be a fun one to explore. He plays a pivotal role at supporting Kate through the difficulties that are thrown her way.
This is a beautiful story of overcoming barriers, of learning to not judge based on hearsay, or even by association. Both Kate & Henry are so very different from their father and grandfather yet both are judged for them. Discovering who you are may be something very different to what you've always believed.
I really enjoyed this book. As a child I visited some of the Mills in England, and really love the history of this time.
(I recently read another book based in Yorkshire and with a Mill as the main plot. There was far too much dialect written into the dialogue. Sarah has not done this, and I much preferred it - it works, really well. Thank you, for keeping your writing to a more classical style.)
Thanks to Netgalley & Thomas Nelson for a complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
The Weaver's Daughter is no exception. This is a tale of two families that have been at odds for many years, not only that, they are being torn apart from within. As industry is transforming in the region, the need for weavers is shrinking. Understandably as the Mills switch to more advanced machinery the traditional laborers in the Yorkshire Moors, are finding themselves out of work, and resorting to desperate measures. They are lashing out in illegal and violent ways as they try to destroy the Mills in the area. Silas Dearborne has been a master weaver his entire life and has already lost one son, whom he considers a traitor of the worst kind, to the Stockton Mill. His daughter Kate, is loyal, smart and true and has judged the Stocktons to be the worst kind of people.
Though he has been presumed dead in the war, heir to the Mill, Henry Stockton is back in Amberdale and the news has spread fast. Under pressure from his grandfather, and the Pennington's (the other wealthy Mill owners in the area), it doesn't take long for Henry to realise he has changed, and the things that used to matter to him are fading into the distance.
As Kate and Henry negotiate their respective circumstances, they find their situations are not all that dissimilar. Desperate to prove themselves to their respective family heads, they find that stubbornness rules.
Will Kate soften towards her brother Charles reasoning for leaving a dying trade to work for what he calls the 'future' in the Mill, and in turn give Henry a chance? Will Henry be able to get through to his Grandfather, and the weavers of the village and find ways to compromise?
As tensions escalate, Henry and Kate find themselves coming together despite the climate of conflict.
I loved the real history that Sarah always pulls into the story. It's interesting to note that whenever change comes along there will always be that need to accept and adapt. It'll never be without its challenges - in this case, the people lost livelihoods. Skills long valued become useless. Though many could now find employment in the Mill, it's clear the conditions were harsh. The hours long. The pressure to send their young children in also, and the abuse of that by some Mill owners a real problem. Even though the weavers choose a path that appears fruitless and dangerous, you will feel great empathy for their plight. Sarah does a great job of reaching across the barriers and allowing the reading to clearly see both sides of the difficulties being presented and taking you to a place of genuine concern for all.
There is a fairly size able group of characters, who all play a significant part. The mystery over Henry's sister Mollie, was intriguing and I'm hoping she gets a story next. I liked the lightness she brought to the serious storyline, despite the situation she has found herself in. Charles also would be a fun one to explore. He plays a pivotal role at supporting Kate through the difficulties that are thrown her way.
This is a beautiful story of overcoming barriers, of learning to not judge based on hearsay, or even by association. Both Kate & Henry are so very different from their father and grandfather yet both are judged for them. Discovering who you are may be something very different to what you've always believed.
I really enjoyed this book. As a child I visited some of the Mills in England, and really love the history of this time.
(I recently read another book based in Yorkshire and with a Mill as the main plot. There was far too much dialect written into the dialogue. Sarah has not done this, and I much preferred it - it works, really well. Thank you, for keeping your writing to a more classical style.)
Thanks to Netgalley & Thomas Nelson for a complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
March 31, 2018
4.5 stars
Sarah Ladd writes a Regency with a fresh perspective. This is not your expected Regency story of romance that takes place in drawing rooms and ballrooms. The Weaver's Daughter tells of the advancements made in the textile mills in the early 1800's and their effects on the local artisans in the small villages of England. In Henry and Kate, we are given two strong characters, who are each seeking to overcome the prejudice between the weavers and the mill-workers in a turbulent time of violence and destruction. Coming from separate sides of this conflict, they must each decide what is right.
" Now he could easily become lost in the murky shades of gray, where ideas were wrong for some and right for others; black for one side and white for the next. Never before had his decisions held such weight and impacted so many."
Can their tender feelings for each other grow as tension between the two groups continue to escalate?
The thread of love and forgiveness are subtly woven in this story of divided loyalties. The mounting tensions, mystery and unexpected plot twist will have the reader eagerly turning the pages as they come to a satisfying conclusion.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Sarah Ladd writes a Regency with a fresh perspective. This is not your expected Regency story of romance that takes place in drawing rooms and ballrooms. The Weaver's Daughter tells of the advancements made in the textile mills in the early 1800's and their effects on the local artisans in the small villages of England. In Henry and Kate, we are given two strong characters, who are each seeking to overcome the prejudice between the weavers and the mill-workers in a turbulent time of violence and destruction. Coming from separate sides of this conflict, they must each decide what is right.
" Now he could easily become lost in the murky shades of gray, where ideas were wrong for some and right for others; black for one side and white for the next. Never before had his decisions held such weight and impacted so many."
Can their tender feelings for each other grow as tension between the two groups continue to escalate?
The thread of love and forgiveness are subtly woven in this story of divided loyalties. The mounting tensions, mystery and unexpected plot twist will have the reader eagerly turning the pages as they come to a satisfying conclusion.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 12, 2018
Originally posted on Reveries Reviews.
Title: The Weaver’s Daughter
Author: Sarah E. Ladd
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Era: Regency
Setting: mid-England countryside
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Source: from Netgalley (in exchange for an honest review)
Overall Rating: 3/5 stars
The Weaver’s Daughter by Sarah E. Ladd is a beyond amazing book with a serious moral issue. That may sound harsh, but that’s the only way to describe it. This review may offend some of y’all, but I’ve got to be truthful about my convictions, so here goes.
I still have some very positive things to say about this book. It was quite well-done. Beautiful writing, interesting setting, intriguing plot, and awesome characters. This book has it all … except that one subplot.
I’m again abandoning my regular format because this is a review that defies structure. I need to be able to talk freely.
It was really a five-star novel. From the tension between the up-and-coming mills and the old-fashioned weavers, to the (forbidden) romance between Kate and Henry, to Kate’s relationship with her father and on and on … beautiful.
It progressed smoothly, kept my attention, had an interesting mystery and a lot of excitement, and was reminiscent of North and South (only I actually like the characters and plot and all a lot better than North and South, shoot me).
Also, am I the only one who is just like: YAY MILLS YAY PROGRESS LET’S BOOT THOSE SLOW WEAVERS OUT OF HERE AND ACTUALLY GET SOME WORK DONE!? Because this is how I feel … :P
Also, all the weavers are complete jerks. Some of the mill folks are jerks, too, but the weavers were extra special jerks.
The whole setting was so excellent. The description really got me wrapped up in the book, combined with the excellent characters. Henry was my favorite, while Catherine’s brother and Catherine herself ran close second and third. Catherine’s dad was a jerk. #nuffsaid
The only problem was the subplot I mentioned earlier. Now, there are some mild spoilers in this next section, but since they are so mild they probably aren’t even spoilers in some ways, I won’t bother to mark them as such. Also, I hope y’all Christian readers will choose not to read this book, so it doesn’t really matter.
Molly, Henry’s younger sister, got pregnant out of wedlock … and Henry as well as Catherine act like this is perfectly okay (as do all the “good guy” characters).
Molly wants to keep her pregnancy a secret and comes up with a lie to cover up (understandable, considering the fact that she is going to be thrown off the earth once Regency society finds out), but all the characters are vehement that Molly needs to tell the truth.
And once she tells the truth the consequences of her sin (YES I SAID THE S-WORD) will go away?
Her lie is a worse sin that her sleeping with a man while unmarried and conceiving a child by him?
I am just so steamed about this that I’m getting angry again as I type.
Yes, forgiveness is very important … but only if the sinner is repentant. Because that’s what Molly is. A sinner. And I know we’re all sinners … but just ’cause we’re all sinners doesn’t mean that sin is okay.
It’s never okay.
If Molly’s lie wasn’t “a mistake” or “a temporary lapse of judgment,” neither was her fornication. (The pregnancy isn’t really the problem morally, just to clarify; let it never be said that a pregnancy is anything but a gift. Though it might seem like a consequence.)
This entire book treats anyone who judges Molly for her fornication like scum. But … that’s wrong. Judging people is wrong, and no sin is any worse than the other (as far as getting one into Hell and making you need Jesus, that is), but … that doesn’t make sin okay.
Also, even though we don’t have a right to judge anyone, of course, Molly will get judged. All the characters are living in this fantasy world where, if Molly is honest about her sin, then nothing bad will happen.
Er, excuse me? Regency England, anyone? Welcome to the 19th century? Molly is going to suffer for this for the rest of her life. Henry (and everyone) sheltering her from this fact is gonna do her no good.
Nor is acting like everything’s going to be okay, Mr. Protective Big Brother. Dear Henry, your sister cannot just move past this. Sin is never gonna just go away unless you confront it. And though Molly is perhaps very sorry she conceived, even sorry she gave away her virtue, she is definitely not thinking of it on the level of sin.
More like an impropriety or an inconvenience of sorts. But what God thinks is what matters … not what society thinks.
I get where the author was going. She wanted to show that fornication is not a worse sin than any other sin as far as salvation goes – or that’s my best guess.
But you can’t go about that by making lying seem a lot worse than it is and making fornication similar to dropping a plate on the floor. (Which would be a mistake.) (Unless you threw that plate at someone’s head.) (That’s concussioning thy neighbor.) (Or something to that effect.)
CONTENT: 4/5
Language: n/a
Violence: men are shot and killed or badly wounded, one man murdered in cold blood, others killed during a violent attack on the mill. Some talk about blood, treatment of wounds, etc. A brawl at a public dance leads to many a split lip.
Sexual: a semi-detailed account of childbearing. Molly has a child out of wedlock and this is treated as a ‘temporary lapse of judgment,’ a ‘mistake,’ and a ‘scandal’ but not as sin which it is (see my whole rant ^^). A couple kisses, a bit detailed.
Other: MOLLY LIES HEAVEN FORBID THAT MOLLY LIES OH NO WHAT SHALL WE DO!?!?!?!?! Lies are such a terrible sin … worse than any other, in fact …
Not recommended for readers under sixteen unless they are discerning and won’t be strayed by the confirmation of sin.
OVERALL: 3/5
I’m sorry, but I cannot and will not recommend this book to any Christian reader. Secular readers might enjoy it, as it is a great (5-star!) book except for the Molly fiasco. But Christian readers shouldn’t allow this kind of thing in their fiction. It’s abominable.
~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews
Title: The Weaver’s Daughter
Author: Sarah E. Ladd
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Era: Regency
Setting: mid-England countryside
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Source: from Netgalley (in exchange for an honest review)
Overall Rating: 3/5 stars
The Weaver’s Daughter by Sarah E. Ladd is a beyond amazing book with a serious moral issue. That may sound harsh, but that’s the only way to describe it. This review may offend some of y’all, but I’ve got to be truthful about my convictions, so here goes.
I still have some very positive things to say about this book. It was quite well-done. Beautiful writing, interesting setting, intriguing plot, and awesome characters. This book has it all … except that one subplot.
I’m again abandoning my regular format because this is a review that defies structure. I need to be able to talk freely.
It was really a five-star novel. From the tension between the up-and-coming mills and the old-fashioned weavers, to the (forbidden) romance between Kate and Henry, to Kate’s relationship with her father and on and on … beautiful.
It progressed smoothly, kept my attention, had an interesting mystery and a lot of excitement, and was reminiscent of North and South (only I actually like the characters and plot and all a lot better than North and South, shoot me).
Also, am I the only one who is just like: YAY MILLS YAY PROGRESS LET’S BOOT THOSE SLOW WEAVERS OUT OF HERE AND ACTUALLY GET SOME WORK DONE!? Because this is how I feel … :P
Also, all the weavers are complete jerks. Some of the mill folks are jerks, too, but the weavers were extra special jerks.
The whole setting was so excellent. The description really got me wrapped up in the book, combined with the excellent characters. Henry was my favorite, while Catherine’s brother and Catherine herself ran close second and third. Catherine’s dad was a jerk. #nuffsaid
The only problem was the subplot I mentioned earlier. Now, there are some mild spoilers in this next section, but since they are so mild they probably aren’t even spoilers in some ways, I won’t bother to mark them as such. Also, I hope y’all Christian readers will choose not to read this book, so it doesn’t really matter.
Molly, Henry’s younger sister, got pregnant out of wedlock … and Henry as well as Catherine act like this is perfectly okay (as do all the “good guy” characters).
Molly wants to keep her pregnancy a secret and comes up with a lie to cover up (understandable, considering the fact that she is going to be thrown off the earth once Regency society finds out), but all the characters are vehement that Molly needs to tell the truth.
And once she tells the truth the consequences of her sin (YES I SAID THE S-WORD) will go away?
Her lie is a worse sin that her sleeping with a man while unmarried and conceiving a child by him?
I am just so steamed about this that I’m getting angry again as I type.
Yes, forgiveness is very important … but only if the sinner is repentant. Because that’s what Molly is. A sinner. And I know we’re all sinners … but just ’cause we’re all sinners doesn’t mean that sin is okay.
It’s never okay.
If Molly’s lie wasn’t “a mistake” or “a temporary lapse of judgment,” neither was her fornication. (The pregnancy isn’t really the problem morally, just to clarify; let it never be said that a pregnancy is anything but a gift. Though it might seem like a consequence.)
This entire book treats anyone who judges Molly for her fornication like scum. But … that’s wrong. Judging people is wrong, and no sin is any worse than the other (as far as getting one into Hell and making you need Jesus, that is), but … that doesn’t make sin okay.
Also, even though we don’t have a right to judge anyone, of course, Molly will get judged. All the characters are living in this fantasy world where, if Molly is honest about her sin, then nothing bad will happen.
Er, excuse me? Regency England, anyone? Welcome to the 19th century? Molly is going to suffer for this for the rest of her life. Henry (and everyone) sheltering her from this fact is gonna do her no good.
Nor is acting like everything’s going to be okay, Mr. Protective Big Brother. Dear Henry, your sister cannot just move past this. Sin is never gonna just go away unless you confront it. And though Molly is perhaps very sorry she conceived, even sorry she gave away her virtue, she is definitely not thinking of it on the level of sin.
More like an impropriety or an inconvenience of sorts. But what God thinks is what matters … not what society thinks.
I get where the author was going. She wanted to show that fornication is not a worse sin than any other sin as far as salvation goes – or that’s my best guess.
But you can’t go about that by making lying seem a lot worse than it is and making fornication similar to dropping a plate on the floor. (Which would be a mistake.) (Unless you threw that plate at someone’s head.) (That’s concussioning thy neighbor.) (Or something to that effect.)
CONTENT: 4/5
Language: n/a
Violence: men are shot and killed or badly wounded, one man murdered in cold blood, others killed during a violent attack on the mill. Some talk about blood, treatment of wounds, etc. A brawl at a public dance leads to many a split lip.
Sexual: a semi-detailed account of childbearing. Molly has a child out of wedlock and this is treated as a ‘temporary lapse of judgment,’ a ‘mistake,’ and a ‘scandal’ but not as sin which it is (see my whole rant ^^). A couple kisses, a bit detailed.
Other: MOLLY LIES HEAVEN FORBID THAT MOLLY LIES OH NO WHAT SHALL WE DO!?!?!?!?! Lies are such a terrible sin … worse than any other, in fact …
Not recommended for readers under sixteen unless they are discerning and won’t be strayed by the confirmation of sin.
OVERALL: 3/5
I’m sorry, but I cannot and will not recommend this book to any Christian reader. Secular readers might enjoy it, as it is a great (5-star!) book except for the Molly fiasco. But Christian readers shouldn’t allow this kind of thing in their fiction. It’s abominable.
~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews
May 6, 2018
The Weaver's Daughter is a combination of regency romance, historical fiction, and suspense. Pitting 2 families against one another, the Stocktons and the Deerbornes both have a long history in the woolen industry. The Deerborne family are weavers and the Stockton family are mill owners. It is a battle between the weavers who wish the status quo and the mill owners who wish to become part of modern industrialization to produce more and increase their profits. Kate Deerborne, Charles Deerborne, and Henry Stockton all find themselves caught between the two sides especially after Henry's grandfather, the mill owner, is found murdered.
I found the history of this deadly feud between the two contingents very interesting. Ladd's historical research is obvious as she pulled me into the heated contentions between the two sides in an industry whose history was little known to me. Kate and Henry were both wonderful main characters, and I loved how they worked together to try and find a middle ground. They both were extremely caring people and wanted to find the best solution for all the workers. The touch of suspense with Henry's grandfather's murder and the surprise culprit made this book a definite 5 star read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
I found the history of this deadly feud between the two contingents very interesting. Ladd's historical research is obvious as she pulled me into the heated contentions between the two sides in an industry whose history was little known to me. Kate and Henry were both wonderful main characters, and I loved how they worked together to try and find a middle ground. They both were extremely caring people and wanted to find the best solution for all the workers. The touch of suspense with Henry's grandfather's murder and the surprise culprit made this book a definite 5 star read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
April 18, 2018
Like many of Sarah E. Ladd's books, this is a Regency story set in a part of Regency society not often touched on in novels. The Christianity in the book is very light and only mentioned occasionally, but I expected that since that is how most of Sarah Ladd's novels are. Her style seems to be more subtle Christianity, clean read sort, so that was what I was expecting and that's what this book is.
The historical conflict of the old weaving industry clashing with the new machine powered mills was a part of history I didn't know much about and I found it fascinating learning about it in this book. There is a lot of tension and hurt caused by changing times and lifestyles, and that was really well-portrayed in this book. Thanks to all the conflict, this book also had more action and tension than some of this author's other novels, and I enjoyed it for that reason.
Because the conflict between mill owners and weavers was such a big presence in the book, it tended to overshadow some of the other small plot points that sometimes fell by the wayside and weren't fully developed. It is mentioned that Henry is dealing with some sort of PTSD from the Napoleonic Wars, but it isn't really touched on more than a few mentions. The whole storyline with Henry's sister Molly seemed a bit oversimplified to the point it didn't add as much to the plot as it seemed like it wanted to. It seems like that whole situation was added to show how forgiving Henry and Kate were as part of the build up for their actions toward the larger conflict, but there were other ways of showing that. But since the plot with the mill owners and weavers took over, the secondary story line wasn't developed quite as much as it could have been.
But other than that, I enjoyed the book and I really liked the characters of Kate and Henry.
The reader of the audiobook did a good job, but she isn't my favorite narrator.
The historical conflict of the old weaving industry clashing with the new machine powered mills was a part of history I didn't know much about and I found it fascinating learning about it in this book. There is a lot of tension and hurt caused by changing times and lifestyles, and that was really well-portrayed in this book. Thanks to all the conflict, this book also had more action and tension than some of this author's other novels, and I enjoyed it for that reason.
Because the conflict between mill owners and weavers was such a big presence in the book, it tended to overshadow some of the other small plot points that sometimes fell by the wayside and weren't fully developed. It is mentioned that Henry is dealing with some sort of PTSD from the Napoleonic Wars, but it isn't really touched on more than a few mentions. The whole storyline with Henry's sister Molly seemed a bit oversimplified to the point it didn't add as much to the plot as it seemed like it wanted to. It seems like that whole situation was added to show how forgiving Henry and Kate were as part of the build up for their actions toward the larger conflict, but there were other ways of showing that. But since the plot with the mill owners and weavers took over, the secondary story line wasn't developed quite as much as it could have been.
But other than that, I enjoyed the book and I really liked the characters of Kate and Henry.
The reader of the audiobook did a good job, but she isn't my favorite narrator.
March 25, 2022
I really enjoyed Kate and Henry's story. It was interesting to me to see how their relationship formed despite all that stood between them. I liked how Henry was able to see Kate's goodness almost right away, and how Kate was able to overcome her own prejudices and see who Henry was at a heart level.
I loved that extending grace and mercy even to those who've wronged us was a theme in the book . . . it's an important lesson that I'm still trying to learn!
I loved that extending grace and mercy even to those who've wronged us was a theme in the book . . . it's an important lesson that I'm still trying to learn!
December 12, 2019
I love Sarah Ladd's books! Her style gives me the same cozy feel I get when watching an Elizabeth Gaskell film. I loved the setting, characters, and tension in this story. A great read to settle in with this winter!
May 6, 2018
I was captured in this book about love, loyalty, deception, honor, and forgiveness. There are probably more words to be added to the list, but I can't think of them right now. :)
Kate and Henry could be described as star-crossed lovers. There families are basically feuding. Henry's family is looking at progression and bringing in new inventions to speed up the business of making wool into material. The competition is fierce, and progression means the possibility of people loosing their jobs and the traditions passed down in families. The book brings up a great point of adding to technology and using fewer people to fuel and industry. Also, the plight of children workers is looked at. I loved how she was sympathetic to the children and made an advocate for them in the story.
This book reminded me that things are not always as they appear to be and there are two sides to every situation. The theme of the book was about mending relationships and making life better in the community. It took the vision of a man recently returned from war to see that life needed to change in the village. It also took the compassion of a woman to help him see where to make the changes.
This is a great book. It contains a few kisses and non-graphic violence.
Source: I requested a review copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Kate and Henry could be described as star-crossed lovers. There families are basically feuding. Henry's family is looking at progression and bringing in new inventions to speed up the business of making wool into material. The competition is fierce, and progression means the possibility of people loosing their jobs and the traditions passed down in families. The book brings up a great point of adding to technology and using fewer people to fuel and industry. Also, the plight of children workers is looked at. I loved how she was sympathetic to the children and made an advocate for them in the story.
This book reminded me that things are not always as they appear to be and there are two sides to every situation. The theme of the book was about mending relationships and making life better in the community. It took the vision of a man recently returned from war to see that life needed to change in the village. It also took the compassion of a woman to help him see where to make the changes.
This is a great book. It contains a few kisses and non-graphic violence.
Source: I requested a review copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
March 18, 2018
'She had done what she told herself not to do. Somehow, in the cracks of daily life, she had let the wall around her heart crumble.'
Once again, Sarah Ladd has penned a powerful Regency! I have been a fan since her very first book and I eagerly await each offering from her.
The small village of Amberdale is torn with divided loyalties. Kate Dearbourne's family are weavers and their means of earning a living is being threatened by the big mills, one of which is run by the Stocktons, the richest folks in the village. Both Mr. Stockton and Kate's father are men of pride and bitterness. This small village seems to be at war and the sides are drawn well and good, with families set to be ripped apart.
Henry Stockton returns home after 3 years at war to this situation. He decides to go with his grandfather and modernize the family's wool mill, paying no heed to the local weavers' grumbling. Tragedy soon strikes and Henry is left to figure out how to proceed with the least amount of damage.
Henry and Kate, although seen as enemies in the eyes of all the village, find themselves drawn together, but how can this work without further destroying both their families? Both these young people soon realize that their loyalties may have been misplaced. Can they both stand for what is right even if it means losing what they have in their hearts for each other?
Sarah Ladd has such a way with words. When I crack open one of her book, I am transported back to the time and place and find myself walking the lanes with her characters, entering their homes and hearth, hearing their conversations. Her descriptions are vivid, her research impeccable and her characterization amazing. Beautifully written, this book is, and the mystery contained herein quite good indeed. I never guessed the culprit, not for a moment. Heart wrenching emotions also make this book one not to be missed, both for Ladd's fans and anyone who has never read her.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Once again, Sarah Ladd has penned a powerful Regency! I have been a fan since her very first book and I eagerly await each offering from her.
The small village of Amberdale is torn with divided loyalties. Kate Dearbourne's family are weavers and their means of earning a living is being threatened by the big mills, one of which is run by the Stocktons, the richest folks in the village. Both Mr. Stockton and Kate's father are men of pride and bitterness. This small village seems to be at war and the sides are drawn well and good, with families set to be ripped apart.
Henry Stockton returns home after 3 years at war to this situation. He decides to go with his grandfather and modernize the family's wool mill, paying no heed to the local weavers' grumbling. Tragedy soon strikes and Henry is left to figure out how to proceed with the least amount of damage.
Henry and Kate, although seen as enemies in the eyes of all the village, find themselves drawn together, but how can this work without further destroying both their families? Both these young people soon realize that their loyalties may have been misplaced. Can they both stand for what is right even if it means losing what they have in their hearts for each other?
Sarah Ladd has such a way with words. When I crack open one of her book, I am transported back to the time and place and find myself walking the lanes with her characters, entering their homes and hearth, hearing their conversations. Her descriptions are vivid, her research impeccable and her characterization amazing. Beautifully written, this book is, and the mystery contained herein quite good indeed. I never guessed the culprit, not for a moment. Heart wrenching emotions also make this book one not to be missed, both for Ladd's fans and anyone who has never read her.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 23, 2018
Loyalty, love and family are at the heart of this dramatic tale, set in 1812 Yorkshire. The backdrop of a growing feud between the industrial mill owners and the traditional weavers, sets the stage for a complicated romance. The author does a good job creating tension between the two factions, throwing in an unsolved murder and adding divided loyalties in the main character's family too.
The dilemma of choosing to do what is right vs staying loyal to her prideful, stubborn father puts Kate right in the middle of the conflict. Her gentle, brave soul is torn and it was interesting to see which direction she would choose. I cheered her on as she stood up to the bullies in her world, courageously putting her self on the line to help others. Henry's character grew on me as he changed through events, overcoming his own prejudice and wounds from battles abroad and at home. The writing flows well, and the pace is steady, building in tension as the conflict comes to a head, with a few plot twists to make it extra interesting at the end.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Regency era tales with drama and clean romance. 4.5 stars
(An e-book was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)
The dilemma of choosing to do what is right vs staying loyal to her prideful, stubborn father puts Kate right in the middle of the conflict. Her gentle, brave soul is torn and it was interesting to see which direction she would choose. I cheered her on as she stood up to the bullies in her world, courageously putting her self on the line to help others. Henry's character grew on me as he changed through events, overcoming his own prejudice and wounds from battles abroad and at home. The writing flows well, and the pace is steady, building in tension as the conflict comes to a head, with a few plot twists to make it extra interesting at the end.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Regency era tales with drama and clean romance. 4.5 stars
(An e-book was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)
January 15, 2018
No one thought Henry Stockton would return from the war alive, and when the young heir to Stockton's cloth mill comes back to the village, not everyone is happy about it. Things have changed in the three years he's been away. There's a growing feud between the mill owners and the weavers--who are convinced that the new machines are ungodly means of depriving them of their livelihood.
Kate Dearborne is in a difficult position. Her father is leader of the weavers, but her brother has defected to go work at the mill. Everyone knew that old Stockton didn't care a whit for the weavers' families, but the new heir Henry seems different. Kate befriends Henry's sister and feels increasingly attracted to Henry's care and kindness. But he's still a Stockton, and she's a Dearborne--if the weavers' agitation turns to violence, which side will she take?
This Regency romance features on far more than balls and parties, showing the sea change that the Industrial Revolution created in small villages in England as artisans were replaced by manufacturers. Kate and Henry are both sympathetic characters, not afraid to stand up for what they believe in. Henry, in particular, is a rock for his sister to lean on and a fearless leader when protecting his own mill workers. He must learn to re-acclimate to civilian life after the horrors of war and discover just how important his grandfather's work actually was for the village. Kate, on the other hand, must overcome her frustration at being overlooked by her father because of her sex and learn the virtue of forgiveness in a time where everyone is eager to take offense. This book was a quick and satisfying read, one of the most enjoyable Regency romances I've read in a long time.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Kate Dearborne is in a difficult position. Her father is leader of the weavers, but her brother has defected to go work at the mill. Everyone knew that old Stockton didn't care a whit for the weavers' families, but the new heir Henry seems different. Kate befriends Henry's sister and feels increasingly attracted to Henry's care and kindness. But he's still a Stockton, and she's a Dearborne--if the weavers' agitation turns to violence, which side will she take?
This Regency romance features on far more than balls and parties, showing the sea change that the Industrial Revolution created in small villages in England as artisans were replaced by manufacturers. Kate and Henry are both sympathetic characters, not afraid to stand up for what they believe in. Henry, in particular, is a rock for his sister to lean on and a fearless leader when protecting his own mill workers. He must learn to re-acclimate to civilian life after the horrors of war and discover just how important his grandfather's work actually was for the village. Kate, on the other hand, must overcome her frustration at being overlooked by her father because of her sex and learn the virtue of forgiveness in a time where everyone is eager to take offense. This book was a quick and satisfying read, one of the most enjoyable Regency romances I've read in a long time.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 23, 2018
The Weaver's Daughter is an absolutely breathtaking story of love and overcoming odds. It reminded me of a Romeo and Juliet tale, without the suicide at the end.
I really loved how this story flowed seamlessly between Kate and Henry's POV. I often feel that an author cannot seamlessly switch a POV from female to male. The characters can so often sound as if they have the exact same voice. So, when I find an author that does it well, I can't help but savor the experience. Sarah Ladd really outdid herself with this novel. These are characters to love and cherish. Characters that I genuinely wanted to wish well.
I did feel as if there were nearly two tropes in this book. An insta-love vibe and a love triangle. However, just like with the character voice, the author did this so well. It felt very organic to the story. And really, the insta-love wasn't like two strangers meeting. Kate and Henry were acquainted.
My favorite thing about this story was Fredrica. Why did I love the villain of the story? Well, she's a character I couldn't help but love to hate. Call me crazy, but I like those characters that make me want to reach through the pages and smack them about.
Overall, I think this is the best book that I have read by Sarah Ladd and I've read almost all of hers.
Everything was just spot on for me. The romance. The tension. The love that Henry had for his family. EVERYTHING. I loved it!
One last thing to mention and for me, this is not a negative. I felt that Molly's (Henry's sister) pregnancy would have been a bigger deal for the time period than Henry made it out to be. But, I loved the story anyway and it didn't detract from the story for me. Maybe it's because I frequently deal with judgemental people who need to give it a rest. While some may feel that Molly's sin is being justified, I didn't feel that way. I felt that Henry was just determined to love his sister. That's how families should be. They should love each other no matter what.
Really, I have nothing negative at all to say about The Weaver's Daughter. I would like to see if there are any plans to turn this into a series.
Note: Kristin reads and reviews both Christian and secular fiction on A Simply Enchanted Life. Out of respect for my readers, I am including a content review. This content review will help you decide whether this book is suitable for you.
Christian or Secular: Christian
ASEL Rating: mild romantic, suggestive scenes but no descriptions or details, mild violence (though no detailed description)
Content to be aware of: A woman is pregnant out of wedlock (not detailed), mild violence including a murder and mentions of war.
Suggested Age: 15+
This book was provided to me by The Publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. All opinions are my own.
This review originally posted on A Simply Enchanted Life
I really loved how this story flowed seamlessly between Kate and Henry's POV. I often feel that an author cannot seamlessly switch a POV from female to male. The characters can so often sound as if they have the exact same voice. So, when I find an author that does it well, I can't help but savor the experience. Sarah Ladd really outdid herself with this novel. These are characters to love and cherish. Characters that I genuinely wanted to wish well.
I did feel as if there were nearly two tropes in this book. An insta-love vibe and a love triangle. However, just like with the character voice, the author did this so well. It felt very organic to the story. And really, the insta-love wasn't like two strangers meeting. Kate and Henry were acquainted.
My favorite thing about this story was Fredrica. Why did I love the villain of the story? Well, she's a character I couldn't help but love to hate. Call me crazy, but I like those characters that make me want to reach through the pages and smack them about.
Overall, I think this is the best book that I have read by Sarah Ladd and I've read almost all of hers.
Everything was just spot on for me. The romance. The tension. The love that Henry had for his family. EVERYTHING. I loved it!
One last thing to mention and for me, this is not a negative. I felt that Molly's (Henry's sister) pregnancy would have been a bigger deal for the time period than Henry made it out to be. But, I loved the story anyway and it didn't detract from the story for me. Maybe it's because I frequently deal with judgemental people who need to give it a rest. While some may feel that Molly's sin is being justified, I didn't feel that way. I felt that Henry was just determined to love his sister. That's how families should be. They should love each other no matter what.
Really, I have nothing negative at all to say about The Weaver's Daughter. I would like to see if there are any plans to turn this into a series.
Note: Kristin reads and reviews both Christian and secular fiction on A Simply Enchanted Life. Out of respect for my readers, I am including a content review. This content review will help you decide whether this book is suitable for you.
Christian or Secular: Christian
ASEL Rating: mild romantic, suggestive scenes but no descriptions or details, mild violence (though no detailed description)
Content to be aware of: A woman is pregnant out of wedlock (not detailed), mild violence including a murder and mentions of war.
Suggested Age: 15+
This book was provided to me by The Publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. All opinions are my own.
This review originally posted on A Simply Enchanted Life
October 14, 2021
What a sweet story of love, loyalty, trust, and forgiveness. It truly was a sweet tale that I fully enjoyed everything about it.
I enjoyed Kate's strong character but yet willingness to obey her father, even if he was a tough cookie. I admired how even though she craved more responsibility and respect, she didn't disrespect her father in the process. Time and time again she bowed to his will even if it hurt her every time.
Henry was just the perfect man to show Kate that she can be loved and they made a perfect team as they fought for better conditions for the mill workers. His story was a sad and heart felt one. My heart went out to him time and time again and I loved him more through it all.
If you're looking for a sweet, cozy read like I was during this time of being laid up then this book is for you! Highly recommend it!
I enjoyed Kate's strong character but yet willingness to obey her father, even if he was a tough cookie. I admired how even though she craved more responsibility and respect, she didn't disrespect her father in the process. Time and time again she bowed to his will even if it hurt her every time.
Henry was just the perfect man to show Kate that she can be loved and they made a perfect team as they fought for better conditions for the mill workers. His story was a sad and heart felt one. My heart went out to him time and time again and I loved him more through it all.
If you're looking for a sweet, cozy read like I was during this time of being laid up then this book is for you! Highly recommend it!
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