Strait Lace by Rosemary Hayward
'A smartly plotted historical novel offering an intriguing insight into the Suffragette movement and what they were fighting for. Highly recommended!'
The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
EDITORIAL REVIEW
​​I’m a big fan of historical novels, so this was right up my street. The author, Rosemary Hayward, has worked wonders here, offering readers a thought-provoking insight into women’s rights in England at the beginning of the 1900s. Shown through the eyes of Harriet, the daughter of a rather forward thinking father, the story follows her as she fights for her rights, and the rights of all women, even getting to meet (and follow) the enigmatic Emmeline Pankhurst.
I must say, there’s a lot to enjoy in this smartly plotted novel. Firstly, the writer did a superb job of balancing family drama with historical events of the time. For example, the developing chemistry between the protagonist and Tom Bardhill is well-handled while, at the same time, the author’s knowledge of, say, the voting system of the time, is excellent.
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Secondly, I loved the flow of the story. It’s accessibly written, the author smartly allowing the characters to put across the news of the day as opposed to long info dumps. And thirdly, the setting ‘feels’ correct – whether it’s the way the characters talk or travel, or dress – you just know it’s correct – or as correct as it could be.So, if you happen to be on the lookout for a drama-filled novel which successfully puts across the battle many women went through to get the vote, this book is for you. I think most readers will find it not only educational ( the book was inspired by a story about Helen Watts, a daughter of a vicar of Lenton and a suffragette), but they’ll also be rooting for Harriet and Tom to find a happy and fufilling life – even if they end up travelling a long way to find it.
A Wishing Shelf Book Review
9th January 2025
Patricia Román
What Rosemary Hayward does so well is bring the feminist cause right into the parlour, the dining room and even the scullery. Her message is clear; votes for women, and at all levels of society. Her research is outstanding. Readers will close the book knowing much more about the When the Why and the Who of the fight for female emancipation. And she is not scared to confront the How either. The merits and morality of using violence and hunger strike for the greater good is discussed with passion around the Edwardian family`s dining table, whilst Harriet, the main protagonist, goes much further; seizing the moment to take brave and resolute action for her beloved feminist cause.
Cathie Dunn
Strait Lace proved to be an incredible story. It contains so much historical detail, and I must admit that it reminded me of the reason why I love historical fiction – we can learn about history through the eyes of fictional characters involved in real events.
I also found the reactions from politicians of the day revealing. The author has looked deep into the records to find their machinations and views, depending on where the wind was blowing. Ostensibly pro-vote, they often prevaricated, finding excuse after excuse. Not much has changed in 120 years, it seems. Especially given the recent shift in some countries to control women's lives again, after decades of trying to break down all barriers. Perhaps it's time to hit those barricades again...
The research undertaken is staggering, and it adds a realistic sense to the rather direct narrative. We don't see events through rose-tinted glasses, with the benefit of time passed since.
If you love learning about history relating to the fight for women's rights, then don't miss this insightful, revealing novel. It's a real treat.
https://ruinsandreading.blogspot.com/2025/03/review-strait-lace-by-rosemary-hayward.html
Maureen Armour
The author created characters you cared about, some you learned to hate, and a narrative incorporating the twists and turns of the early 20th century leading up to WWI! Gender roles and issues, early medicine and manufacturing, and the political ebb and flow of various parties and persons, including some nice bashing of W Churchill and Lloyd George.
She artfully spun her tale around real persons and events! Learned about hunger strikes and forced feedings in graphic detail!!