The Seamstress of New Orleans: A Fascinating Novel of Southern Historical Fiction

By Diane C. McPhail

Book Overview

Set against the backdrop of the first all-female Mardi Gras krewe at the turn-of-the-century, the acclaimed author's mesmerizing historical novel tells of two strangers separated by background but bound by an unexpected secret--and of the strength and courage women draw from and inspire in each other.

"An undercurrent of New Orleans's dark side propels the story, heightening the tension and supplying McPhail with a wealth of evocative details." - Publishers Weekly

The year 1900 ushers in a new century and the promise of social change, and women rise together toward equality. Yet rules and restrictions remain, especially for women like Alice Butterworth, whose husband has abruptly disappeared. Desperate to make a living for herself and the child she carries, Alice leaves the bitter cold of Chicago far behind, offering sewing lessons at a New Orleans orphanage.

Constance Halstead, a young widow reeling with shock under the threat of her late husband's gambling debts, has thrown herself into charitable work. Meeting Alice at the orphanage, she offers lodging in exchange for Alice's help creating a gown for the Leap Year ball of Les Mysterieuses, the first all-female krewe of Mardi Gras. During Leap Years, women have the rare opportunity to take control in their interactions with men, and upend social convention. Piece by piece, the breathtaking gown takes shape, becoming a symbol of strength for both women, reflecting their progress toward greater independence.

But Constance carries a burden that makes it impossible to feel truly free. Her husband, Benton, whose death remains a dangerous mystery, was deep in debt to the Black Hand, the vicious gangsters who controled New Orleans' notorious Storyville district. Benton's death has not satisfied them. And as the Mardi Gras festivities reach their fruition, a secret emerges that will cement the bond between Alice and Constance even as it threatens the lives they're building . . .

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1496738152
• ISBN13: 9781496738158
• Release Date: May 2022
• Publisher: John Scognamiglio Book
• Length: 304 Pages
• Weight: 0.89 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.2" x 5.8" x 8.6"

Customer Reviews

Historical Fiction

This is a Historical Fiction Mystery. I normally do not read historical fiction books that take place in the 1800's/early 1900's, so this book is not the normal historical fiction book that I go for. I put off reading this book for awhile because it scared me, but the storyline had me wanting to read it. I am so glad I picked this book up because I loved it so much. This book was so well written, and it took me on a great ride full of intrigue. I love the secrets that are slowly revealed throughout this book. I loved all the characters, and the two main characters are strong women that learn they really do not need a man. The cover of this book is so gorgeous and fits the storyline so well. I loved everything about this book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.