From Publishers Weekly
Based on the true story of Hester Bateman, an indomitable 18th century English silversmith, this novel by the veteran author of historical romance compassionately chronicles her life from age 12 to 83, as well as the triumphs and catastrophes befalling her six children. After her mother's death, Hester lives with relatives at their tavern. There, the lissome, vivacious girl attracts John Bateman, senior apprentice to a respected goldsmith named Harwood. Although he is courting Harwood's daughter and is expected to obey the rule of sexual abstinence imposed on all apprentices, John's fully reciprocated passion for Hester leads to her pregnancy. Outraged, Harwood expels and blacklists John, whose professional downfall follows his clandestine wedding to Hester. Despite poverty, the Batemans persevere heroically, then stabilize their finances when John sets up his own thriving shop, where he tutors Hester in the crafting of precious metals. While John's artistic stature grows, Hester absorbs his knowledge, rejoices when her sons enter the business and patiently observes her family's eventful lives unfold. Each of these lifelike, affectionately etched characters commands attention, as does Laker's quietly moving portrayal of the Bateman clan's passage through the eternal circuit of birth, marriage and death.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--Ce texte provient d'une édition qui n'est plus publiée ou qui est non diponible.
From Library Journal
A prolific author of historical romances, Laker has drawn upon the life of a real woman as the inspiration for her newest novel. Hester Bateman was a noted artisan in 18th-century London, and as portrayed by Laker, a determined, passionate woman. Overcoming hardships and tragedy, she learns the craft of silversmithing from her beloved husband, John. Together they raise a family and lay the foundation for a dynasty of artisans to follow. Strong, believable characters and rich historical detail have distinguished Laker's previous novels, and this one is no exception. A worthwhile addition to most popular fiction collections.Barbara E. Kemp, Washington State Univ. Lib., Pullman
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--Ce texte provient d'une édition qui n'est plus publiée ou qui est non diponible.
