The Dressmaker
Ladies of Roderick Glen, Book 2
Marigold + Hadley
She wants to forget the tragic memories that tie them together. He wants to tear down the walls that keep them apart.
Marigold Pendleton has always prided herself on her independence. Possessing neither wealth nor great beauty, she has resigned herself to life as a spinster and is determined to look after her own needs. As dressmaker for the village of Roderick Glen, she is known for her loyalty and compassionate nature. Few of the residents would ever guess the truth—that beneath her sweet spirit, Marigold carries the weight of a dreadful secret and a guilty conscience.
Hadley Stevenson is proud of his position as steward of Cheswick Park, though it often means dealing with the constant drama that haunts the Earl of Rockingham and his family wherever they go. He longs for a wife and family of his own, but his childhood friend, Marigold, has no idea he has been in love with her for years. Despite his best efforts, he is unable to break through the barriers that surround her heart.
When a crisis forces Marigold to rely on Hadley more than she ever has before, she struggles to reconcile her growing feelings for him with the knowledge that he is the only one who knows the truth about the tragic event that has defined her life. As the walls between them finally begin to crumble, can she release the pain of the past to embrace the joy of the future that awaits her?
The second book in the Ladies of Roderick Glen series, The Dressmaker brings to life the continuing stories of the citizens of Roderick Glen as they traverse the rocky pathways that lead to faith, family, forgiveness, and love.
What Readers Have to Say
No surprise it was excellent….I choked up a few times in this one, cried at the end. When a writer paints such a beautiful picture with words how can you not? I enjoyed Marigold’s story quite a bit, I’ll confess that this book was much easier for me to get into than the first. I am anxious to see the conclusion of the storyline with George and Fiona!!! Well done.
- James
What I liked about this book was the themes of forgiveness that were woven throughout. Forgiveness both of ourselves and others. Carrying burdens of an unforgiving heart can cripple us from enjoying the good things in front of us. I could see in many of the characters how a refusal to forgive things from the past prevented them from experiencing the joy that was in front of them. I also felt there were solid faith elements throughout this story that point out that true joy and contentment are found in the Lord.
- Emily
In The Piano Teacher, I was really interested in Marigold and Hadley’s story. When I found out The Dressmaker was about them, I was so excited!
This book was beautiful and sweet with a message that impacts.
I loved the characters, especially Marigold and Hadley. Watching them grow separately and then growing together was such a sweet and special thing. I loved Marigold’s character growth. She is consumed by guilt from her past and is struggling to forgive herself. The message here is really important and one I don’t want to forgive. God is willing to forgive us for our mistakes. We just have to forgive ourselves. I loved Hadley so much. He was such a great male lead. His love for Mary was the sweetest thing.
I truly loved this book! The themes of family, forgiveness, love, and faith was weaved in beautifully. If you love historical fiction, this is a good one!
- Emma
The Dressmaker reads like the perfect stitches of Marigold’s handiwork. Self’s newest story solidifies her prowess, making us all want to know what happens in books three and beyond.
So, who should read The Dressmaker? Anyone looking for a new and upcoming writer should read Kristie Self. Also, those who fell in love with Downton Abbey or Pride and Prejudice will certainly fall in love with The Piano Teacher and The Dressmaker.
- Kate