Synopsis
Only courage and spirit can help Bella survive life in a Victorian workhouse. Fleeing the abuse that she suffered there, the beautiful outcast hopes her new life in a factory town can provide the esteem and affection she craves. Torn between the worlds of masters and workers, Bella falls for the enigmatic Jack, but their relationship shatters when his true identity is revealed. In a desperate bid to revive her love, Jack unearths Bella's past, with tragic consequences. After a devastating fire, a secret emerges that seals Bella's fate, and that of everyone and everything she holds dear.
Fans of Catherine Cookson and Victorian historical romances will love this book.
Review
What an amazing story! It's both dark and lighthearted at the same time, intense and fun, as well as tragic and romantic. There is so much going on withing these pages, and so many lovable characters that you couldn't help but love it.
It's a girl's journey from childhood to womanhood. The book beautifully captures her struggles and her kind soul. No one can turn Bella Hart into a cynic. The world can try but she is determined to persevere. So much is buries in her past and she isn't sure if knowing it is better or worse. One thing is for sure though, life would never be the same again. However, Bella doesn't believe in giving up and she hopes to find a way to come to terms with her new reality.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. In fact, it's so good that I couldn't put it down once I started reading. A wonderful and soulful story of a 'workhouse waif.' I'd recommend this book to all readers, especially those who enjoy good historical fiction.
P.S. I received a complimentary copy of this book, for which I would like to thank the author.