A woman who must atone for her past. A village that needs her courage.
CORNWALL, 1537.
Mawde Sherman returns to the village of St Mawes to find it is not the thriving community she left behind as a child. The fishing fleet has dwindled and poverty is rife.
When the local priory closes, the villagers despair. They lose a source of charity and many lose paid work. Mawde wants to help the villagers, and her husband has a plan. But Mawde discovers a dark side to Nicholas and a selfish desire for wealth.
Plagued by nightmares about her past, Mawde must make amends. She believes God will forgive her if she helps St Mawes to thrive again. When a foe from Mawde’s childhood moves into the village, her emotions are conflicted. He is a cruel reminder of her past. He is also a man who can help her.
Small acts of charity are not enough to secure the village’s future. The long-term solutions involve great risks, but is Mawde prepared to take them?
A gripping tale about hardship, determination and love.
Dionne Haynes is the author of the Mayflower Collection novels, a series of books that has proven popular with descendants of the Mayflower passengers and fans of historical fiction. She parted ways with her medical career after 20 years as a doctor when the time had come to fulfil her dream of becoming a full-time author. She lives with her husband in Plymouth, England where they enjoy walking coastal paths and exploring historic houses. You can get a FREE novella – visit dionnehaynes.com for details. Connect on social media on Facebook (@DionneHaynesUK) and Instagram (@dionnehaynes.author).
4.5 stars, rounding up. The Mistress of Carrick is the second book in the series and follows on from Mawde of Roseland. The story is set in the Cornish village of St Mawes, beginning in the year 1537, during the reign of King Henry VIII. Mawde has returned to her childhood home with her new husband to start her married life. Unfortunately, the village and her marriage both have problems.
The story moves at a good pace, and I don't think it's essential to have read the first book in the series to follow what's going on in this sequel. Although, it was interesting to see Julian back on the scene, and having met him in the first book will show you how his character has developed.
For historical fiction, there is a good amount of period detail throughout the story and the book has a suitably dramatic ending, although there is scope for a third book in the series. If I have any criticisms, it's that sometimes the dialogue felt a bit stiff and formal between the family, but that's just my feeling.
Overall, this is a good historical drama, with some interesting twists and turns and strong main characters.
Quick and easy to read, hard to put down. Mawde is an ordinary woman set in Tudor times featuring a small seaside village in Cornwall 1537. Perfect for fans of historical fiction. I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher and this is my unbiased review.
Having Read Mawde of Roselands which I couldn't put down and didn't want it to end , I have now finished the following book Mistress of Carrick Again it was a book I just kept on reading the storyline was full of content to keep you on the edge of your seats so to speak,This book was worth waiting for and I am sorry I have finished it . I now must praise the Author Dionne Hayes ,wonderful writing and must now read your other books too. I recommend all to read this book ,both books you won't be dissapointed. More please.
This is a well researched, well written historical story. I loved Mawde's determination and strength throughout the story. It was fascinating to see how she dealt with each setback and rose up to meet each challenge. She went from being the most scorned woman to the most loved person in St. Mawe's. I liked the characters and the storyline. I would recommend it to readers who enjoy Historical fiction. I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Another enthralling book, I thoroughly enjoyed the twists and turns of the storyline. I particularly loved the links to factual history in the West Country. I can't wait to read Dionne's next book.
After the captivating journey in Mawde of Roselands, I eagerly dove into Mistress of Carrick to follow Mawde's adventures and see where her path would lead. Dionne Hayes once again delivers a saga filled with trials, tribulations, and the indomitable spirit of a woman seeking redemption.
Mawde's story is one of strength, sacrifice, and unwavering resolve to help others as she grapples with the sins of her past. This installment beautifully intertwines love, heartbreak, and heroism, showcasing Hayes' mastery in weaving complex characters and compelling narratives.
I highly recommend Mistress of Carrick alongside Mawde of Roselands. Both books are a testament to Hayes' talent and will undoubtedly captivate readers.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my unbiased review.