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The Painter's Daughters: The award-winning debut novel selected for BBC Radio 2 Book Club
SELECTED FOR THE BBC RADIO 2 BOOK CLUB | WINNER OF THE MSLEXIA NOVEL COMPETITION
1759, Ipswich. Sisters Peggy and Molly Gainsborough are the best of friends and do everything together. They spy on their father as he paints, they rankle their mother as she manages the books, they tear barefoot through the muddy fields that surround their home. But there is another reason they are from a young age, Molly has had a tendency to forget who she is, to fall into confusion, and Peggy knows instinctively that no one must find out.
When the family move to Bath, Thomas Gainsborough finds fame as a portrait artist, while his daughters are thrown into the whirl of polite society. Here, the merits of marriage and codes of behaviour are crystal clear, and secrets much harder to keep. As Peggy goes to greater lengths to protect her sister, she finds herself falling in love, and their precarious situation is soon thrown catastrophically off-course. The discovery of a betrayal forces her to question all she has done for Molly - and whether any one person can truly change the fate of another . . .
Inspired by true events and told with irresistible vibrancy and wit, Emily Howes' award-winning debut is a captivating and deeply moving novel about art, sisterhood and the price we pay for love.
1759, Ipswich. Sisters Peggy and Molly Gainsborough are the best of friends and do everything together. They spy on their father as he paints, they rankle their mother as she manages the books, they tear barefoot through the muddy fields that surround their home. But there is another reason they are from a young age, Molly has had a tendency to forget who she is, to fall into confusion, and Peggy knows instinctively that no one must find out.
When the family move to Bath, Thomas Gainsborough finds fame as a portrait artist, while his daughters are thrown into the whirl of polite society. Here, the merits of marriage and codes of behaviour are crystal clear, and secrets much harder to keep. As Peggy goes to greater lengths to protect her sister, she finds herself falling in love, and their precarious situation is soon thrown catastrophically off-course. The discovery of a betrayal forces her to question all she has done for Molly - and whether any one person can truly change the fate of another . . .
Inspired by true events and told with irresistible vibrancy and wit, Emily Howes' award-winning debut is a captivating and deeply moving novel about art, sisterhood and the price we pay for love.
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First published February 27, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 529 reviews
December 5, 2023
The Painter’s Daughters brings the story behind so many paintings of Thomas Gainsborough, renowned 18th century English painter.
The story explores the close bond between two sisters, Peggy and Molly Gainsborough. Molly is older, but Peggy knows she needs to protect her sister, who occasionally experiences mental confusion. They both enjoy roaming barefoot through the fields surrounding their home in Ipswich, but the mother stops it. She feels that the daughters need to be raised as proper ladies. Thus, the family moves to Bath, where Molly’s bouts progress and Peggy continues to cover it up as much as she can. When a man by the name Johann Fischer enters the scene, the sisters’ bond gets under fractured.
This story has a feel of a build up until the end, and the mystery aspect continues to linger to the very last pages. The story is told through the eyes of sisters and a young woman named Meg Grey. It is not clear what her connection is to the family, but Peggy questions the mystery behind her mother’s family. Those who are into mystery may have stronger connection to this lingering aspect.
The threads of the story are loose to the very end. I wished they were tied up much earlier. I’m more into straightforward storytelling rather than lingering mystery. That lingering aspect made me disengage with the story half-way through. For me tying the ends much earlier would make the read much more engaging, and understanding earlier on the direction of the story as half-way through I questioned the point of telling this story. I had to reread the synopsis to understand it.
Nevertheless, it is still a fascinating story of two sisters who are subject of their father’s many paintings. It always makes the experience much richer to be able to look at a painting and know a story behind it.
I enjoyed Peggy’s sharp tongue and honest observations without holding anything back. The sisters’ voices at the beginning of the story are very distinct, but as the story progresses I wished for more of character-development to make them distinct individuals with their traits besides devotion and protection.
This richly imagined story is written with outstanding prose which is the strong part of this story.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story explores the close bond between two sisters, Peggy and Molly Gainsborough. Molly is older, but Peggy knows she needs to protect her sister, who occasionally experiences mental confusion. They both enjoy roaming barefoot through the fields surrounding their home in Ipswich, but the mother stops it. She feels that the daughters need to be raised as proper ladies. Thus, the family moves to Bath, where Molly’s bouts progress and Peggy continues to cover it up as much as she can. When a man by the name Johann Fischer enters the scene, the sisters’ bond gets under fractured.
This story has a feel of a build up until the end, and the mystery aspect continues to linger to the very last pages. The story is told through the eyes of sisters and a young woman named Meg Grey. It is not clear what her connection is to the family, but Peggy questions the mystery behind her mother’s family. Those who are into mystery may have stronger connection to this lingering aspect.
The threads of the story are loose to the very end. I wished they were tied up much earlier. I’m more into straightforward storytelling rather than lingering mystery. That lingering aspect made me disengage with the story half-way through. For me tying the ends much earlier would make the read much more engaging, and understanding earlier on the direction of the story as half-way through I questioned the point of telling this story. I had to reread the synopsis to understand it.
Nevertheless, it is still a fascinating story of two sisters who are subject of their father’s many paintings. It always makes the experience much richer to be able to look at a painting and know a story behind it.
I enjoyed Peggy’s sharp tongue and honest observations without holding anything back. The sisters’ voices at the beginning of the story are very distinct, but as the story progresses I wished for more of character-development to make them distinct individuals with their traits besides devotion and protection.
This richly imagined story is written with outstanding prose which is the strong part of this story.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2024
The Painter’s Daughters is an historical fiction that captures Peg and Molly Gainsborough, the daughters of the well known painter Thomas Gainsborough. Beginning in their youth, when they are wild impetuous children, it follows them through to their final days.
The title may use the word “daughters”, but the story really focuses on the younger daughter, Peg. Peg does not understand where Molly goes sometimes, how she drifts away, what her “funny spells” are. Still, she works hard to protect her sister. The family moves to Bath, so the young girls can become useful. “Accomplished, handsome, fashionable daughters can be useful to a man.” Howe perfectly captures the expectations for young ladies of the era. But also how easily they could be taken advantage of, how often they were pawns in a meaningless game. It makes some interesting points about love, self-sacrifice and obligations. The final meeting of Fischer and Peg was the best scene in the book.
There’s also a secondary plot line involving an innkeeper’s daughter and the Prince of Wales.
The story was a bit of a slog to get through. I was hoping for more about Gainsborough himself and his works. He is more of a shadow character, not often in the frame.
Howe does a good job of setting the stage as to time and place, especially their time in Bath. The remedies for madness seemed well researched.
Other than Peg, I didn’t feel any of the characters were fully fleshed out.
There is an Author’s Note in the beginning which might have provided some insight. Unfortunately, in the ARC I had, it was so messed up as to be unintelligible.
My thanks to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for an advance copy of this book.
The title may use the word “daughters”, but the story really focuses on the younger daughter, Peg. Peg does not understand where Molly goes sometimes, how she drifts away, what her “funny spells” are. Still, she works hard to protect her sister. The family moves to Bath, so the young girls can become useful. “Accomplished, handsome, fashionable daughters can be useful to a man.” Howe perfectly captures the expectations for young ladies of the era. But also how easily they could be taken advantage of, how often they were pawns in a meaningless game. It makes some interesting points about love, self-sacrifice and obligations. The final meeting of Fischer and Peg was the best scene in the book.
There’s also a secondary plot line involving an innkeeper’s daughter and the Prince of Wales.
The story was a bit of a slog to get through. I was hoping for more about Gainsborough himself and his works. He is more of a shadow character, not often in the frame.
Howe does a good job of setting the stage as to time and place, especially their time in Bath. The remedies for madness seemed well researched.
Other than Peg, I didn’t feel any of the characters were fully fleshed out.
There is an Author’s Note in the beginning which might have provided some insight. Unfortunately, in the ARC I had, it was so messed up as to be unintelligible.
My thanks to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for an advance copy of this book.
January 20, 2024
This was an interesting piece of historical fiction regarding the two daughters of famous painter Thomas Gainsborough in England's 1700s. He would often make them subjects of his paintings. The author drew from documented history to tell a story about two daughters born a year apart, with the eldest Molly having intermittent psychological issues. The mother had a secret heritage leading back to royalty so hoped for them to thrive in polite society. The younger daughter Meg was quite devoted to her sister acting as a caregiver and keeper of her secret. While Molly likely belonged in an asylum, the family closed ranks to navigate the choppy waters of her mental illness.
I loved reading about all the trappings of this time in England, from the countryside of Ipswich to the bustling streets of Bath. A favorite item to search on the internet was sedan chairs used by the wealthy when travelling through the narrow and filthy streets of the UK at the time. The normal future for a young, privileged girl at this juncture was enjoying "the season", wearing fancy clothes, attending balls- ultimately looking for a suitable husband. I also enjoyed reading about the servants who maintained the cozy kitchen that always had a comforting fire burning in the hearth and flagstone floors, as well as someone to help you dress and fix your hair.
There was a dueling storyline involving another Meg, a descendant of the girls that slowly reveals the royal heritage of the Gainsborough sisters. Unlike some dual storylines that serve to leave the reader a bit dizzy, both were a pleasure to read in equal measure. The famous British historical fiction author Hilary Mantel read the book and said it was "beautifully written", and I have to agree.
Thank you to the publisher Simon & Schuster who provided an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
March 6, 2024
The Painter’s Daughters is historical fiction based on the lives of the daughters of the 18th century English artist Thomas Gainsborough. They are Mary, called Molly, and Margaret, called Peggy, given the same name as her mother. As the story begins, we find the family living in Ipswich, in Suffolk, with Thomas dividing his painting between the landscapes he loved and the portraits that could support his family. The two girls enjoy running through the fields and playing which is leading to heated discussions between their parents. Father wants to stay in Ipswich and enjoys seeing his daughters enjoy a free, happy life. Mother is concerned for their future, how they will enter society, meet husbands. And she worries that Thomas is missing a more lucrative clientele if they were to relocate to Bath.
Another issue that slowly begins to arise is rather odd, occasionally alarming incidents when Molly seems to not be herself. Peggy witnesses this more than her parents but becomes her sister’s protector, sensing this is something to hide.
There is an alternating thread in this novel, from the point of view of a young woman named Meg. She narrates her story beside Peggy’s, but from years earlier. Not until the end of the book is the full impact of Meg’s tale revealed with the threads coming together.
The problem I had with this novel primarily relates to Meg’s narrative. While I do understand its relevance to the story, I felt that it slowed the primary narrative too much. Peggy’s story lost momentum and, in a non-action story, forward motion is important to maintain. I was tempted to stop reading but I’m glad that I didn’t as I would have missed the end of Molly and Peggy’s stories.
My rating is 3.5 rounded down to 3.
Thanks to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for an eARC of this book. This review is my own.
Another issue that slowly begins to arise is rather odd, occasionally alarming incidents when Molly seems to not be herself. Peggy witnesses this more than her parents but becomes her sister’s protector, sensing this is something to hide.
There is an alternating thread in this novel, from the point of view of a young woman named Meg. She narrates her story beside Peggy’s, but from years earlier. Not until the end of the book is the full impact of Meg’s tale revealed with the threads coming together.
The problem I had with this novel primarily relates to Meg’s narrative. While I do understand its relevance to the story, I felt that it slowed the primary narrative too much. Peggy’s story lost momentum and, in a non-action story, forward motion is important to maintain. I was tempted to stop reading but I’m glad that I didn’t as I would have missed the end of Molly and Peggy’s stories.
My rating is 3.5 rounded down to 3.
Thanks to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for an eARC of this book. This review is my own.
September 10, 2023
3.5 Stars
This is the story of the daughters of Thomas Gainsborough, a famous painter in the 1700s, Peggy and Molly, as well as his life as a struggling artist as this begins.
The two girls are inseparable, and as they live in a fairly quiet location, surrounded by acres of fields to roam through and run through as they please, they live a fairly idyllic life. Their father, nearby, painting, their mother inside making sure the home is kept the way she wants it. A simple life.
Neither of the parents seem to be aware of the reason why the girls are inseparable, though. Only Peggy seems to be aware of how Molly seems to drift away, forgetting the simplest of things, including who she is, or where they are, at times. Peggy takes it upon herself to be Molly’s ever constant companion, sleeping beside her to make sure that Molly doesn’t wander off without her being aware of it.
In the midst of this, their parents decide to move to Bath, where they will no longer have the freedom they had before. They are now a part of a community which carries certain expectations, attending church, and taking part in community events. As Molly declines, it becomes harder and harder for Peggy to protect her from what will become of her as she continues to fade away from reality. Still, Peggy is determined to protect Molly as long as she can.
Then a young man, Johann Fischer, enters the picture, he catches the eye, and hearts, of both girls - unbeknownst to Peggy or Molly, he begins courting them both at first, but eventually Peggy questions her relationship with him, and her relationship with Molly, as well.
I loved this story of the bond of sisterhood, although it began to unravel a bit for me as the end approached.
Pub Date: 27 Feb 2024
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Simon & Schuster
February 5, 2024
This was not a light fluffy read. This was a tragedy. And it pulled me in like Wuthering Heights but without a possible romance. The lure of something maybe wonderful to come, but alas it is written of the realities of our history. A past I wanted to look away from and I found uncomfortable. The novel is not true, not really. And it spoke of the harsh lives of women in a time I’m grateful I was not apart of. Women who controlled nothing and had to bear everything. It was also about sisters. Sister so entangled that I am still unsettled about them. When I finished this I looked for all of the painters work and love the art.
But after saying all this I found the writing brilliant. It is layered with conflict and passion of survival that was said so well. I am reader of most things who has turned into a reviewer by chance and these are my thoughts.
It was a painful 5 ⭐️ and I will be thinking about this one for months and grateful for my life.
Thanks Simon & Schuster via NetGalley.
Just some of my favorite quotes:
“It is not fury with his lust. It is not the humiliation, as I had thought at first. It is fury with what he has debased. Trust. Faith. Honesty. It is fury that he has wasted those things in me, and that I have let him.”
“I gambled everything, and I won it for us. And you were supposed to ruin everything, but you saved me. And they don’t sing about that in the ballads, do they, Margaret Burr? They don’t sing about us.”
‘I cannot stand it! You act as if it has no consequence, as if people have no – feelings! You break words away from their meanings, until nothing holds true at all.’
“He takes a step towards me, as if he is going to explain myself to me in the way that only men do……It is not fair, I think, with a kind of despair. You may take what you want. “
But after saying all this I found the writing brilliant. It is layered with conflict and passion of survival that was said so well. I am reader of most things who has turned into a reviewer by chance and these are my thoughts.
It was a painful 5 ⭐️ and I will be thinking about this one for months and grateful for my life.
Thanks Simon & Schuster via NetGalley.
Just some of my favorite quotes:
“It is not fury with his lust. It is not the humiliation, as I had thought at first. It is fury with what he has debased. Trust. Faith. Honesty. It is fury that he has wasted those things in me, and that I have let him.”
“I gambled everything, and I won it for us. And you were supposed to ruin everything, but you saved me. And they don’t sing about that in the ballads, do they, Margaret Burr? They don’t sing about us.”
‘I cannot stand it! You act as if it has no consequence, as if people have no – feelings! You break words away from their meanings, until nothing holds true at all.’
“He takes a step towards me, as if he is going to explain myself to me in the way that only men do……It is not fair, I think, with a kind of despair. You may take what you want. “
September 30, 2025
Roman istoric despre cele două fiice: Peggy și Molly, ale pictorului englez Thomas Gainsborough din secolul al XVIII-lea, recunoscut ca unul dintre cei mai mari portretisti ai timpului său. Toată viața sa însă Gainsborough va rămâne credincios satului englezesc în care a crescut și ale cărui peisaje le va picta cu o pasiune pe care timpul nu o va știrbi. În portretele sale din care își câștigă existența, deoarece îi va fi foarte greu să își întrețină familia din pictura peisagistică, artistul îmbină peisajul cu personajele în așa fel încât să obțină o compoziție armonioasă,naturală și plină de lirism.
Un roman captivant și emoționant, ce explorează universul familiar al pictorului, dragostea și sacrificiul, instituția căsătoriei și rolul femeilor într-o societate patriarhală, bolile mintale și tratamentul acestora care de cele mai multe ori erau negate de catre societate, banii și ierarhia socială, dar și, bineînțeles, arta.
Recomand.
Un roman captivant și emoționant, ce explorează universul familiar al pictorului, dragostea și sacrificiul, instituția căsătoriei și rolul femeilor într-o societate patriarhală, bolile mintale și tratamentul acestora care de cele mai multe ori erau negate de catre societate, banii și ierarhia socială, dar și, bineînțeles, arta.
Recomand.
December 9, 2023
The Painter’s Daughters imagines the lives of Peggy and Molly Gainsborough, daughters of the painter Thomas Gainsborough. He married Margaret Burr who was perhaps the illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Beaufort as he had settled an income on her mother. Emily Howes’ novel considers that Frederick Prince of Wales was the real father, and that Molly inherited porphyria, as did Frederick’s son, George III.
Portraits by their father display the friendship between Peggy and Molly, and their relationship is the heart of the novel. As the child Molly developed symptoms of mental illness, Peggy covers for her. Peggy ties Molly’s hair to the bedpost so she could not sleep walk. She notices when a spell was coming on, and pinched Molly to get her focused. And, she takes the blame for the turmoil Molly creates.
As they grow up, Peggy believes that Molly can never be a wife. Molly longs to break free, and falls in love with a charming musician, who turns out to be an unreliable cad. The historical Molly did have a failed marriage.
The novel is deeply psychological, delving into the sister’s inner lives. Readers learn about the historical period and the painter’s life, but the focus is on the choices Peggy makes, taking responsibility for her sister, giving up any personal life out of love for her sister.
The chapters alternate between the sisters and their mother’s back story, how an innkeeper’s daughter was bedded by a prince and sought economic support to raise their child.
An engrossing read that satisfies on many levels, I kept thinking about Peggy and Molly for days.
Thanks to the publisher for a free book.
Portraits by their father display the friendship between Peggy and Molly, and their relationship is the heart of the novel. As the child Molly developed symptoms of mental illness, Peggy covers for her. Peggy ties Molly’s hair to the bedpost so she could not sleep walk. She notices when a spell was coming on, and pinched Molly to get her focused. And, she takes the blame for the turmoil Molly creates.
As they grow up, Peggy believes that Molly can never be a wife. Molly longs to break free, and falls in love with a charming musician, who turns out to be an unreliable cad. The historical Molly did have a failed marriage.
The novel is deeply psychological, delving into the sister’s inner lives. Readers learn about the historical period and the painter’s life, but the focus is on the choices Peggy makes, taking responsibility for her sister, giving up any personal life out of love for her sister.
The chapters alternate between the sisters and their mother’s back story, how an innkeeper’s daughter was bedded by a prince and sought economic support to raise their child.
An engrossing read that satisfies on many levels, I kept thinking about Peggy and Molly for days.
Thanks to the publisher for a free book.
February 23, 2024
This debut historical fiction novel paints a dark and dreary picture of how life and love can be cruel. I enjoy a good book about artists and their paintings, but I had a hard time connecting with this one and would be hard pressed to recommend it.
Set in 18th century England, the settings in this story have a very Old World feeling and seem to be always filled with mud. The story started off rather slow and I waited and waited for it to get better. The artist Thomas Gainsborough is best known for his landscapes and his portrait painting. His most notable work is The Blue Boy. However, the artist plays a supporting role in this story as the father to his two sheltered daughters.
Throughout their lives Peggy closely watches over her sister Molly who has mental health issues. The girls are brought up with a patient, loving father who was seldom home and a belligerent mother who cared more about public appearances.
Oddly enough, the chapters about the two girls switch back and forth with another storyline that is about an innkeeper's daughter and her relationship to the Prince of Wales. At 50% into this secondary story, I still had no clue what connection it had to the Gainsborough family. Things were often alluded to rather than being explained and I felt too often that many questions were left unanswered.
Overall, I liked this story about sisterly love, betrayal, and devotion. I just didn't love it.
My sincere thanks to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for giving me the opportunity to read a DRC of this novel. All opinions expressed are my own.
Set in 18th century England, the settings in this story have a very Old World feeling and seem to be always filled with mud. The story started off rather slow and I waited and waited for it to get better. The artist Thomas Gainsborough is best known for his landscapes and his portrait painting. His most notable work is The Blue Boy. However, the artist plays a supporting role in this story as the father to his two sheltered daughters.
Throughout their lives Peggy closely watches over her sister Molly who has mental health issues. The girls are brought up with a patient, loving father who was seldom home and a belligerent mother who cared more about public appearances.
Oddly enough, the chapters about the two girls switch back and forth with another storyline that is about an innkeeper's daughter and her relationship to the Prince of Wales. At 50% into this secondary story, I still had no clue what connection it had to the Gainsborough family. Things were often alluded to rather than being explained and I felt too often that many questions were left unanswered.
Overall, I liked this story about sisterly love, betrayal, and devotion. I just didn't love it.
My sincere thanks to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for giving me the opportunity to read a DRC of this novel. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 19, 2024
Set in 18th century Ipswich, we begin the story with Peggy and Molly as young girls. Peggy is keen to learn to paint, just like her father, but she struggles with spending time away from her sister. Molly has begun to show signs of being unwell, entering into trance-like states and sometimes forgetting where she is. Over time, Peggy begins to learn the things that she can do to return Molly to herself, including inflicting pain.
As they grow into adults, Peggy begins to realise she will never be able to leave her sister; that Molly will be unable to marry and lead the life expected of them by their parents. But Molly refuses to believe that just because she is "mad", it doesn't mean she can't marry and have children. Their relationship begins to break down as Molly relays to Peggy that all she ever remembers from their childhood is that Peggy always wanted to hurt her.
Throughout the years, Peggy has also questioned her heritage. Overheard conversations between her mother and father have always made her wonder where her parents have got their money from. As a painter, her father is commissioned for artwork but has this been able to provide the life they have become accustomed to?
I absolutely loved The Painter's Daughters. I have a younger sister and, although we weren't always close (we are now!), for me, having a sister has always meant there's been a constant person in my life who would always be there no matter what. She and I would do anything for each other and I loved that bond between Peggy and Molly, and felt the tug at my heartstrings at the times when they argued.
Emily Howes is a wonderful writer and told this retelling of the family of artist, Thomas Gainsborough, exceptionally well. Brilliant and, if you're a historical fiction lover, I highly recommend!
As they grow into adults, Peggy begins to realise she will never be able to leave her sister; that Molly will be unable to marry and lead the life expected of them by their parents. But Molly refuses to believe that just because she is "mad", it doesn't mean she can't marry and have children. Their relationship begins to break down as Molly relays to Peggy that all she ever remembers from their childhood is that Peggy always wanted to hurt her.
Throughout the years, Peggy has also questioned her heritage. Overheard conversations between her mother and father have always made her wonder where her parents have got their money from. As a painter, her father is commissioned for artwork but has this been able to provide the life they have become accustomed to?
I absolutely loved The Painter's Daughters. I have a younger sister and, although we weren't always close (we are now!), for me, having a sister has always meant there's been a constant person in my life who would always be there no matter what. She and I would do anything for each other and I loved that bond between Peggy and Molly, and felt the tug at my heartstrings at the times when they argued.
Emily Howes is a wonderful writer and told this retelling of the family of artist, Thomas Gainsborough, exceptionally well. Brilliant and, if you're a historical fiction lover, I highly recommend!
August 29, 2023
It is amazing how Emily Howes writes about two sisters who are so extraordinarily different. She uses words that make the girls come alive. I am overjoyed to see a Historical Fiction written about Thomas Gainsborough. I remember everyday seeing a painting of The Blue Boy. It hung over a staircase in my elementary school. I have to admit my heart pittered and pattered reading these were the daughters of Thomas Gainsborough. I feel as though Peg might shadow Meg all of their lives. It is astounding how two siblings can enter the world from the same parents and end up completely different. One might mirror the father and one might skip along and resemble a fourth cousin. Who knows? it is a paradox. One so special large tomes are written about the DNA trail.
Sadly, Meg's mind is confused. She seems like a blind child. Perhaps, it is the blank stare that causes this feeling. I am not sure whether Meg's mother just sees Meg as a disobedient child. Perhaps, she does know something is seriously wrong. With horrors she speaks of Bedlam. I am sure Mr. Gainsborough has detected it as more than just play. The one who really knows and is keeping Meg safe is Peg. Peg is mother and sister. Family dynamics take a lifetime to explore. Thankfully, authors like Emily Howes starts us on the journey.
Sadly, Meg's mind is confused. She seems like a blind child. Perhaps, it is the blank stare that causes this feeling. I am not sure whether Meg's mother just sees Meg as a disobedient child. Perhaps, she does know something is seriously wrong. With horrors she speaks of Bedlam. I am sure Mr. Gainsborough has detected it as more than just play. The one who really knows and is keeping Meg safe is Peg. Peg is mother and sister. Family dynamics take a lifetime to explore. Thankfully, authors like Emily Howes starts us on the journey.
April 4, 2024
This was a fantastic debut novel from Emily Howes. It was absolutely brilliant and beautifully written. Featuring art, mental illness, sibling relationships, and filled with historical details about the 1700s, the Painter's Daughters was simply perfect.
The story begins in Ipswich when Peggy and Molly are very young and follows them as their childhood progresses in Bath. Molly has started to show signs of mental illness and Peggy is trying to keep her well. As they become adults Peggy realizes that she will always have to be with Molly and that her sister will never lead a normal life.
Emily Howes does such an amazing job telling this story about the family of artist Thomas Gainsborough. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The story begins in Ipswich when Peggy and Molly are very young and follows them as their childhood progresses in Bath. Molly has started to show signs of mental illness and Peggy is trying to keep her well. As they become adults Peggy realizes that she will always have to be with Molly and that her sister will never lead a normal life.
Emily Howes does such an amazing job telling this story about the family of artist Thomas Gainsborough. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
May 3, 2024
this gets a stamp of approval on an art history level and on a sister level
February 21, 2024
Bravo, Emily Howes, on writing a beautiful and poignant life history of the painter Thomas Gainsborough and his family. I didn't realize I needed to know this story but you have proved I did. It looks like Howes did a lot of research to write this and from what I have gathered from my own research, is pretty close to spot-on with most of the details and facts of this family. It was remarkable how, even with small elements, she was able to bring it all to life with stunning attentiveness.
This story has two parts to follow: one is the lives of the painter and his wife and children, Molly and Margaret (his daughters). Specifically we are reading through Margaret's eyes. We are introduced to them as young children and follow their upbringing - all the way through to the end. The sisters have a unique bond, one that is threatened time and again, especially as madness plays a big part in their relationship. I should warn that there is a lot related to mental illness, so if this is a trigger, please note it. The other part is about a woman named Meg, who begins a journey too few would be able to survive. These two parts do merge in a shocking way (unless you have done your research and know the history). Every time I opened the book I was intrigued and needed to know more. The heartbreak these characters go through is sometimes immense.
If you have ever looked at Gainsborough's paintings you will see them come to life in this book. And Howes creates the reasons behind each one as well. If you are a historical fiction lover, this is absolutely the book for you. I unfortunately had to wipe my tear filled eyes at the end because I knew there wasn't anything left to read. Everything came together nicely in the end, with explanation for the two story lines. If Howes takes on another project like this, I will devour it. I am so grateful to Simon and Schuster for the opportunity to read this!
This story has two parts to follow: one is the lives of the painter and his wife and children, Molly and Margaret (his daughters). Specifically we are reading through Margaret's eyes. We are introduced to them as young children and follow their upbringing - all the way through to the end. The sisters have a unique bond, one that is threatened time and again, especially as madness plays a big part in their relationship. I should warn that there is a lot related to mental illness, so if this is a trigger, please note it. The other part is about a woman named Meg, who begins a journey too few would be able to survive. These two parts do merge in a shocking way (unless you have done your research and know the history). Every time I opened the book I was intrigued and needed to know more. The heartbreak these characters go through is sometimes immense.
If you have ever looked at Gainsborough's paintings you will see them come to life in this book. And Howes creates the reasons behind each one as well. If you are a historical fiction lover, this is absolutely the book for you. I unfortunately had to wipe my tear filled eyes at the end because I knew there wasn't anything left to read. Everything came together nicely in the end, with explanation for the two story lines. If Howes takes on another project like this, I will devour it. I am so grateful to Simon and Schuster for the opportunity to read this!
January 16, 2024
A Touching Historical Fiction Family Drama of Mental Health, Sacrifice and Betrayal
SUMMARY
Peggy and Molly are the daughters of the renowned portrait artist Thomas Gainsborough. The two sisters are best friends and enjoy playing in the English countryside. They often spy on their father while he paints and rattles their mother's nerves with their mischief.
When Molly periodically suffers from episodes of mental confusion, forgetting who and where she is, Peggy feels responsible for covering for Molly. When the family moves to Bath, Molly's episodes become more frequent and challenging for Peggy to conceal.
In Bath, the girls are introduced to polite society, and Peggy ultimately falls in love with her father’s friend, Johann Fischer, a well-known composer. Her world is turned upside down by a betrayal. Peggy questions everything she has ever done for Molly as the betrayal unfolds. Should she have always covered for Molly? Now everyone will know…
REVIEW
THE PAINTER's DAUGHTER is an interesting and informative historical fiction novel set in the 1700’s. Peggy and Molly’s touching story and the themes of mental health, sacrifice, and betrayal were captivating.
In addition to the two sisters, the novel intermittently introduces another character, Meg Grey, a young woman working in the kitchen of her father's inn in Harwich. Although Meg's story is compelling, without a connection, it interrupts the flow of the main story. I frequently reread pages to ensure I wasn't missing something in this family drama. Who is this Meg Grey?
Thanks to Netgalley for an advance reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Publisher Simon & Schuster
Published February 27, 2024
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
SUMMARY
Peggy and Molly are the daughters of the renowned portrait artist Thomas Gainsborough. The two sisters are best friends and enjoy playing in the English countryside. They often spy on their father while he paints and rattles their mother's nerves with their mischief.
When Molly periodically suffers from episodes of mental confusion, forgetting who and where she is, Peggy feels responsible for covering for Molly. When the family moves to Bath, Molly's episodes become more frequent and challenging for Peggy to conceal.
In Bath, the girls are introduced to polite society, and Peggy ultimately falls in love with her father’s friend, Johann Fischer, a well-known composer. Her world is turned upside down by a betrayal. Peggy questions everything she has ever done for Molly as the betrayal unfolds. Should she have always covered for Molly? Now everyone will know…
REVIEW
THE PAINTER's DAUGHTER is an interesting and informative historical fiction novel set in the 1700’s. Peggy and Molly’s touching story and the themes of mental health, sacrifice, and betrayal were captivating.
In addition to the two sisters, the novel intermittently introduces another character, Meg Grey, a young woman working in the kitchen of her father's inn in Harwich. Although Meg's story is compelling, without a connection, it interrupts the flow of the main story. I frequently reread pages to ensure I wasn't missing something in this family drama. Who is this Meg Grey?
Thanks to Netgalley for an advance reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Publisher Simon & Schuster
Published February 27, 2024
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
November 27, 2023
This is a voluntary review for a complimentary ARC kindly provided by NetGalley and the author/publisher.
This one was a struggle for me. It moves slow and left me wondering what the point of the story was. The emotional bond between the two sisters and their father came across, as did their lesser connection with their mother, but it left me flat. Someone used the word melancholy which I think perfectly describes this story.
This one was a struggle for me. It moves slow and left me wondering what the point of the story was. The emotional bond between the two sisters and their father came across, as did their lesser connection with their mother, but it left me flat. Someone used the word melancholy which I think perfectly describes this story.
September 28, 2023
I loved this book. It interested me from the start to know that it was about the real-life daughters of Thomas Gainsborough, a famous painter from the 1700s. Gainsborough’s best-known works are The Blue Boy and Mr. and Mrs. Andrews, both of which are among my favorites of the period. He also painted numerous portraits of his daughters as they grew, as well as captivating landscapes.
The titular “daughters” – Molly and Peggy – are as close as sisters can get. As the eldest, Molly, begins to show signs of madness (she dissociates at times and needs coaxing back to reality), the younger, Peggy, pledges herself to keeping Molly’s secret, even from her parents. As the girls grow older and the family moves from Ipswich to the larger town of Bath, and as their mother urges them “into society”, it becomes harder for Peggy to keep Molly’s secret. When the two girls fall in love with the same man, things come to a head.
As a work of historical fiction, this is among the best I’ve read. The author believably recreates 1700s England and spins a tale of madness and intrigue that fits what is known about Gainsborough, his family and his patrons. One warning, though…about half-way through the book, I looked Gainsborough up on Wikipedia to read what is known, factually, about the painter. I would not recommend this, as the entry gives away nearly everything. If you’re interested in the book, it’s best to go in blind. Except for the paintings – there’s no harm in admiring Gainsborough’s paintings before reading about them, to get a feel for his style and to see what he and his daughters looked like. Highly recommended.
The titular “daughters” – Molly and Peggy – are as close as sisters can get. As the eldest, Molly, begins to show signs of madness (she dissociates at times and needs coaxing back to reality), the younger, Peggy, pledges herself to keeping Molly’s secret, even from her parents. As the girls grow older and the family moves from Ipswich to the larger town of Bath, and as their mother urges them “into society”, it becomes harder for Peggy to keep Molly’s secret. When the two girls fall in love with the same man, things come to a head.
As a work of historical fiction, this is among the best I’ve read. The author believably recreates 1700s England and spins a tale of madness and intrigue that fits what is known about Gainsborough, his family and his patrons. One warning, though…about half-way through the book, I looked Gainsborough up on Wikipedia to read what is known, factually, about the painter. I would not recommend this, as the entry gives away nearly everything. If you’re interested in the book, it’s best to go in blind. Except for the paintings – there’s no harm in admiring Gainsborough’s paintings before reading about them, to get a feel for his style and to see what he and his daughters looked like. Highly recommended.
June 25, 2024
Well written and well plotted, though I would have a tough time saying I “liked” this.
Howes is a lovely writer and this is an interesting meditation on familial duty and the repercussions of madness, but it’s hard to get away from the fact that it’s a deeply depressing story populated by characters who are difficult to like.
It’s easy to feel some sympathy for the girls, sure, but I don’t think I would call them likable. And they aren’t especially interesting either aside from their dealings with the family’s strain of mental illness, which is mostly sadder than it is intriguing.
I thought the setting and sense of place were a bit of a bright spot (particularly in a book where the descriptive content—generally speaking—wasn’t great). I was intrigued by Howes’ evocations of each place the family lived, particularly Bath.
The story could have used stronger links to Gainsborough’s work, particularly since I’d imagine that’s what will draw most readers to the book in the first place. Without the art evoking a sense of beauty and historical significance for the story, it mostly just feels like a swampy, tragic period piece. Great if that’s what you’re into, but if you were looking for greater insight into the great painter himself and what his life was like, look elsewhere.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Howes is a lovely writer and this is an interesting meditation on familial duty and the repercussions of madness, but it’s hard to get away from the fact that it’s a deeply depressing story populated by characters who are difficult to like.
It’s easy to feel some sympathy for the girls, sure, but I don’t think I would call them likable. And they aren’t especially interesting either aside from their dealings with the family’s strain of mental illness, which is mostly sadder than it is intriguing.
I thought the setting and sense of place were a bit of a bright spot (particularly in a book where the descriptive content—generally speaking—wasn’t great). I was intrigued by Howes’ evocations of each place the family lived, particularly Bath.
The story could have used stronger links to Gainsborough’s work, particularly since I’d imagine that’s what will draw most readers to the book in the first place. Without the art evoking a sense of beauty and historical significance for the story, it mostly just feels like a swampy, tragic period piece. Great if that’s what you’re into, but if you were looking for greater insight into the great painter himself and what his life was like, look elsewhere.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
February 3, 2024
DNF! I am 20% in and nothing is happening. It is so slow and boring. Life is too short to waste. I’m disappointed, I was so looking forward to a good historical fiction. Thanks to Simon and Schuster for the gifted copy but this is not for me.
https://www.instagram.com/bestestbook...
https://www.instagram.com/bestestbook...
December 14, 2025
adding their mother’s POV would’ve done wonders for this story.
October 30, 2025
O carte care se citește încet, ca o pânză care prinde contur pas cu pas. „Fiicele pictorului” vorbește despre artă, tăcere și despre locul femeilor într-o lume care le vede doar ca muze, nu ca creatoare. Mi-a plăcut tonul blând și felul în care detaliile picturii se amestecă cu viața de zi cu zi. Uneori e lentă, dar are ceva liniștitor în ritmul ei. O poveste despre curajul de a-ți găsi propria voce chiar și atunci când lumea te pictează altfel. Perfectă de citit cu o cafea și toamnă-n geam.
Recomand cu încredere tuturor iubitorilor de artă și nu doar
Recomand cu încredere tuturor iubitorilor de artă și nu doar
February 27, 2024
*** Happy Publication Day ***
In this excellent debut historical fiction novel, Emily Howes hits a home run with her depiction of the lives of Molly and Peggy Gainsborough, daughters of the portrait artist. It is an intriguing look into their lives and the secret the family tried to hide.
Children Mary (Molly) and Margaret (Peggy) Gainsborough lead a carefree life in the English countryside while their father Thomas tries to earn a living as a landscape artist. Realizing there is more money to be had as a portrait artist and bowing to his wife's wishes for a more societal life for their daughters, the family moves to Bath in the early 1700s. Success finds Thomas, but at what cost to his daughters? Molly's mental health declines, and Peggy, trying to keep the severity of it from her parents, vows to protect her from commitment to Bedlam. Little did Peggy know the implications of keeping this vow would have on her life.
This carefully crafted novel is beautifully written and transported me to 1700s English life. It is well-researched, resulting in an intimate look into the lives of the Gainsborough family and the society in which they moved. It is a fast-paced and engaging story that captured me from page one. Ms. Howes's next book is about the life of Mrs. Charles Dickens, and I can't wait. If you enjoy historical fiction or good storytelling, you should pick up this book. It's excellent.
Thank you, NetGalley and Simon & Schuster, for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The publication date is February 27, 2024.
In this excellent debut historical fiction novel, Emily Howes hits a home run with her depiction of the lives of Molly and Peggy Gainsborough, daughters of the portrait artist. It is an intriguing look into their lives and the secret the family tried to hide.
Children Mary (Molly) and Margaret (Peggy) Gainsborough lead a carefree life in the English countryside while their father Thomas tries to earn a living as a landscape artist. Realizing there is more money to be had as a portrait artist and bowing to his wife's wishes for a more societal life for their daughters, the family moves to Bath in the early 1700s. Success finds Thomas, but at what cost to his daughters? Molly's mental health declines, and Peggy, trying to keep the severity of it from her parents, vows to protect her from commitment to Bedlam. Little did Peggy know the implications of keeping this vow would have on her life.
This carefully crafted novel is beautifully written and transported me to 1700s English life. It is well-researched, resulting in an intimate look into the lives of the Gainsborough family and the society in which they moved. It is a fast-paced and engaging story that captured me from page one. Ms. Howes's next book is about the life of Mrs. Charles Dickens, and I can't wait. If you enjoy historical fiction or good storytelling, you should pick up this book. It's excellent.
Thank you, NetGalley and Simon & Schuster, for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The publication date is February 27, 2024.
April 12, 2024
The Painter's Daughters is a work of biographical fiction focusing on Molly and Peggy Gainsborough (yes, daughters of Thomas Gainsborough). As with all biographical fiction, one can't assume that what one is reading is "true," but Emily Howes, the author, does a fair job in the afterword explaining which bits of the story are based on unproven claims and notes the occasional shifts she has made in dates.
The novel follows two story lines that seem disconnected, but that play off against each other well, giving the author multiple ways to explore the exploitation of young women by more powerful men in the 1700s. I read this title in two nights and sincerely enjoyed myself. Molly and Peggy's lives were difficult: Molly had increasing mental health issues as she grew up, and Peggy spent much of her life trying to "protect" Molly by hiding her illness from her family and outsiders. Both women have strengths, despite the difficulties they're wrestling with, and I appreciated Howes' exploration of what their inner lives might have been like.
If you enjoy historical fiction, particularly that set in the 1700s, this is book you should keep an eye out for.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
The novel follows two story lines that seem disconnected, but that play off against each other well, giving the author multiple ways to explore the exploitation of young women by more powerful men in the 1700s. I read this title in two nights and sincerely enjoyed myself. Molly and Peggy's lives were difficult: Molly had increasing mental health issues as she grew up, and Peggy spent much of her life trying to "protect" Molly by hiding her illness from her family and outsiders. Both women have strengths, despite the difficulties they're wrestling with, and I appreciated Howes' exploration of what their inner lives might have been like.
If you enjoy historical fiction, particularly that set in the 1700s, this is book you should keep an eye out for.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
January 30, 2024
This book was very interesting. It takes place in the 1700s and is about painter Thomas Gainsborough, his wife, and daughters. His eldest daughter, Molly, is not all mentally there. Obviously that was very bad in the 1700s. His other daughter Peggy tries to hide what is wrong with Molly as best she can because she does not want her to get sent away to an asylum. There is not a lot of good that happens in this novel. It is just everything the family goes through. They are not rich by any means but they get by. Of course they want their daughters to marry rich men so they will be taken care of, but Peggy knows it can never happen for Molly and it can never happen for her because she will always have to take care of Molly. It is rough. I guess this book is also about keeping secrets and sisterhood. Thomas Gainsborough painted his daughters so I had to look up his paintings so that was fun to see.
-And he will have to play the game that we all play, the game of blanking out the things that are not convenient to remember.
-And he will have to play the game that we all play, the game of blanking out the things that are not convenient to remember.
January 8, 2024
This book is depressing and only mildly interesting
The subplot is more interesting than the main imo
The subplot is more interesting than the main imo
August 22, 2024
The Painter’s Daughters
by Emily Howes
Thank you so much @simonsbooks #simonbooksbuddy for the gifted copy.
About the book 👇🏽
Peggy and Molly Gainsborough—the daughters of one of England’s most famous portrait artists of the 1700s and the frequent subject of his work—are best friends. They spy on their father as he paints, rankle their mother as she manages the household, and run barefoot through the muddy fields that surround their home. But there is another reason they are inseparable: from a young age, Molly periodically experiences bouts of mental confusion, even forgetting who she is, and Peggy instinctively knows she must help cover up her sister’s condition.
When the family moves to Bath, it’s not so easy to hide Molly’s slip-ups. There, the sisters are thrown into the whirlwind of polite society, where the codes of behavior are crystal clear. Molly dreams of a normal life but slides deeper and more publicly into her delusions. Peggy knows the shadow of an asylum looms for women like Molly, and she goes to greater lengths to protect her sister’s secret.
But when Peggy unexpectedly falls in love with her father’s friend, the charming composer Johann Fischer, the sisters’ precarious situation is thrown catastrophically off course. Her burgeoning love for Johann sparks the bitterest of betrayals, forcing Peggy to question all she has done for Molly, and whether any one person can truly change the fate of another.
✨ My thoughts:
I don’t know what took me so long to read this! A very intriguing Historical Fiction I read through quickly. Not my usual genre of choice but I loved this! The dual storylines worked well and kept me engaged throughout. This is far from a light read and even somewhat devastating but it’s truly impossible to put down. The Painter’s Daughters is out now!
“I gambled everything and won it for us. And you were supposed to ruin everything, but you saved me. And they don’t sing about that in ballads, do they, Margaret Burr? They don’t sing about us.”
Happy reading 📖 🎨
by Emily Howes
Thank you so much @simonsbooks #simonbooksbuddy for the gifted copy.
About the book 👇🏽
Peggy and Molly Gainsborough—the daughters of one of England’s most famous portrait artists of the 1700s and the frequent subject of his work—are best friends. They spy on their father as he paints, rankle their mother as she manages the household, and run barefoot through the muddy fields that surround their home. But there is another reason they are inseparable: from a young age, Molly periodically experiences bouts of mental confusion, even forgetting who she is, and Peggy instinctively knows she must help cover up her sister’s condition.
When the family moves to Bath, it’s not so easy to hide Molly’s slip-ups. There, the sisters are thrown into the whirlwind of polite society, where the codes of behavior are crystal clear. Molly dreams of a normal life but slides deeper and more publicly into her delusions. Peggy knows the shadow of an asylum looms for women like Molly, and she goes to greater lengths to protect her sister’s secret.
But when Peggy unexpectedly falls in love with her father’s friend, the charming composer Johann Fischer, the sisters’ precarious situation is thrown catastrophically off course. Her burgeoning love for Johann sparks the bitterest of betrayals, forcing Peggy to question all she has done for Molly, and whether any one person can truly change the fate of another.
✨ My thoughts:
I don’t know what took me so long to read this! A very intriguing Historical Fiction I read through quickly. Not my usual genre of choice but I loved this! The dual storylines worked well and kept me engaged throughout. This is far from a light read and even somewhat devastating but it’s truly impossible to put down. The Painter’s Daughters is out now!
“I gambled everything and won it for us. And you were supposed to ruin everything, but you saved me. And they don’t sing about that in ballads, do they, Margaret Burr? They don’t sing about us.”
Happy reading 📖 🎨
June 10, 2024
Listened to this on Audible. A fascinating historical novel but lost its way and was a bit slow at times. However still really interesting book and a sad indictment of the lack of rights of women and people with mental health issues at that time.
The biggest issue was that the alternating story of another woman was not tied in to the main story until the very end of the book. It would have meant more if it had been linked in sooner.
But a great first novel from this writer and clearly researched in great detail.
The biggest issue was that the alternating story of another woman was not tied in to the main story until the very end of the book. It would have meant more if it had been linked in sooner.
But a great first novel from this writer and clearly researched in great detail.
January 22, 2024
What a beautiful story! I was thoroughly immersed in this one. I’d highly recommend it to anyone, particular those who appreciate historical fiction along with strong literary elements of nuance, and a bit of mystery story revealed. It’s that perfect sweet spot and intersection of historical fiction genre that I love and look for, in appreciating the subtleties of character navigating difficult choices in life, to sharing a vivid story in biography, notably to the English painter, within an honest service and tribute to the social outlook of the time. I will really look forward to discussing this one in book club.
Thank you to Book Club Favorites at Simon & Schuster for the free copy for review.
Expected publication: February 27, 2024.
The Story
Many themes, and multi-dimensional.
The biographical telling was really special. Spending time in the technique, connection, and appreciation of art. Gorgeous and emotive in description. Paid perfect homage to the craft, and lifestyle, complete with tie-ins and use of artistic allegory in-between.
Conveyed societal outlook well, particularly for the livelihood and future. Status and place in this world.
I loved the capture of the innocence and wonder of childhood. The perspective of uncertainty, both in the small and little things. Tender moments, questioning, confusion, and acceptance. Imagination of a child. Depicted the childlike qualities of fun, seeking adventure, curiosity, restraint, trust, routine, bonding, freedom, and growth.
Depicted the complex and conflicting parts of each relationship. The most concerning and intense moments to what is personally sacred and intriguing even if no one shares the same sentiment. Coupled with a balance of continual self-examination that directed energy well, in both hope and grievances, and not jarring in turn, was tight in the storyline and trajectory, and flowed within the writing.
The undercurrent of sorting those complex and conflicting feelings as a child, also on behalf of another, being attuned, while desiring to grow up and flourish, but the former stops you somehow. Coping at a young age and suppressed self-expression. Magical thinking of a child, to maladaptive. Physiological and psychological manifestations. A careful approach to what is pathological. Incorporated symbolism and subtle gesture.
Reading the emotions of another person, who is seemingly unpredictable and navigating that. The heart of soothing a parent, in the perspective of a child, and the lengths one would go to avoid shame, embarrassment, and judgment. Grasping for approval and affection. Looking internally to explain another’s behavior. Imposition and demand. Control. Compulsions. Invalidation. Expectations. As well as protecting. Pretend. Spilled onto, yet sometimes the origin, notably a course also in tandem with dynamics and needs of a sibling.
Self-preservation and sanity.
Loyalty and betrayal.
The Writing
Talented, and uniqueness in writing style. Sort of had some select, incorporated details or vignette-type scenes that were very strong and powerful to drive the delicate parts of story and for completeness. Whether confirming in quiet reiteration, supporting, explanatory, or foreshadow.
Loved the way the POV for the characters was written, including dual timeline in addition to present tense (which is incredibly rare for me, to enjoy together or even in isolation typically), was sorted out, nicely layered, and both paced well in parallel. The fascination kept up and the perspectives really shined through.
Subtle displays of love and emotion, repulsion, attachment, and mentionable reactions of everyone with remarkable perceptiveness.
Rich in allegory as well as imagery all around.
Much to be said for in the mood, atmosphere, dress, and scenery.
Tone
Meek and somewhat grim. Fitting for the overall and secondary storyline.
Felt very satisfying, with some components of literary lingering that I very much appreciate.
I will definitely be looking forward to more from this author.
Blog post
Thank you to Book Club Favorites at Simon & Schuster for the free copy for review.
Expected publication: February 27, 2024.
The Story
Many themes, and multi-dimensional.
The biographical telling was really special. Spending time in the technique, connection, and appreciation of art. Gorgeous and emotive in description. Paid perfect homage to the craft, and lifestyle, complete with tie-ins and use of artistic allegory in-between.
Conveyed societal outlook well, particularly for the livelihood and future. Status and place in this world.
I loved the capture of the innocence and wonder of childhood. The perspective of uncertainty, both in the small and little things. Tender moments, questioning, confusion, and acceptance. Imagination of a child. Depicted the childlike qualities of fun, seeking adventure, curiosity, restraint, trust, routine, bonding, freedom, and growth.
Depicted the complex and conflicting parts of each relationship. The most concerning and intense moments to what is personally sacred and intriguing even if no one shares the same sentiment. Coupled with a balance of continual self-examination that directed energy well, in both hope and grievances, and not jarring in turn, was tight in the storyline and trajectory, and flowed within the writing.
The undercurrent of sorting those complex and conflicting feelings as a child, also on behalf of another, being attuned, while desiring to grow up and flourish, but the former stops you somehow. Coping at a young age and suppressed self-expression. Magical thinking of a child, to maladaptive. Physiological and psychological manifestations. A careful approach to what is pathological. Incorporated symbolism and subtle gesture.
Reading the emotions of another person, who is seemingly unpredictable and navigating that. The heart of soothing a parent, in the perspective of a child, and the lengths one would go to avoid shame, embarrassment, and judgment. Grasping for approval and affection. Looking internally to explain another’s behavior. Imposition and demand. Control. Compulsions. Invalidation. Expectations. As well as protecting. Pretend. Spilled onto, yet sometimes the origin, notably a course also in tandem with dynamics and needs of a sibling.
Self-preservation and sanity.
Loyalty and betrayal.
The Writing
Talented, and uniqueness in writing style. Sort of had some select, incorporated details or vignette-type scenes that were very strong and powerful to drive the delicate parts of story and for completeness. Whether confirming in quiet reiteration, supporting, explanatory, or foreshadow.
Loved the way the POV for the characters was written, including dual timeline in addition to present tense (which is incredibly rare for me, to enjoy together or even in isolation typically), was sorted out, nicely layered, and both paced well in parallel. The fascination kept up and the perspectives really shined through.
Subtle displays of love and emotion, repulsion, attachment, and mentionable reactions of everyone with remarkable perceptiveness.
Rich in allegory as well as imagery all around.
Much to be said for in the mood, atmosphere, dress, and scenery.
Tone
Meek and somewhat grim. Fitting for the overall and secondary storyline.
Felt very satisfying, with some components of literary lingering that I very much appreciate.
I will definitely be looking forward to more from this author.
Blog post
March 4, 2024
I’m excited to share my thoughts on this beautifully written and evocative story of Thomas Gainsborough’s two beloved daughters, Peggy and Molly, who are the best of friends and spend their lives in each other’s pockets. This rich and vivid reimagining captures sisterly love and devotion, in all its shades of generosity, envy, desire, ambition, loyalty, tenderness and protection.
The story starts off in Ipswich in late 18th century but the family moves to Bath where most of the novel is set. We see the idyllic childhood of the sisters crumble when Molly, the eldest of the two, starts getting confused easily and suffers accidents. It is a moving and captivating look at mental health issues and madness within a close familial setting.
It is also a coming-of-age story, journeying the struggles for both Peggy and Molly to be seen as individuals rather than the idealistic portraits of the girls together painted by their father. As the sisters become their own person with desires, hopes and dreams, a betrayal forces Peggy to reflect on the sacrifices she’s made for Molly.
I absolutely adored this historical story that brings to life the story behind the paintings displayed at The National Gallery. It is compassionate and full of love and the sisters captivated me. I couldn’t resist going to The National Gallery to see the portraits for myself. The one in the first pic is of the daughters cradling a cat. Highly recommend seeing the portraits IRL.
A gorgeous debut for historical fiction lovers ❤️
Also a shoutout to the gorgeous cover!!
The story starts off in Ipswich in late 18th century but the family moves to Bath where most of the novel is set. We see the idyllic childhood of the sisters crumble when Molly, the eldest of the two, starts getting confused easily and suffers accidents. It is a moving and captivating look at mental health issues and madness within a close familial setting.
It is also a coming-of-age story, journeying the struggles for both Peggy and Molly to be seen as individuals rather than the idealistic portraits of the girls together painted by their father. As the sisters become their own person with desires, hopes and dreams, a betrayal forces Peggy to reflect on the sacrifices she’s made for Molly.
I absolutely adored this historical story that brings to life the story behind the paintings displayed at The National Gallery. It is compassionate and full of love and the sisters captivated me. I couldn’t resist going to The National Gallery to see the portraits for myself. The one in the first pic is of the daughters cradling a cat. Highly recommend seeing the portraits IRL.
A gorgeous debut for historical fiction lovers ❤️
Also a shoutout to the gorgeous cover!!
April 6, 2025
This is more literary fiction than I normally like, and the beginning was pretty slow, but I ended up liking it. It’s based on real people: painter Thomas Gainsborough, his wife, Margaret Burr, and daughters Mary (“Molly”) and Margaret (“Peggy”). At ten percent a secondary story line is introduced that features another Margaret (“Meg”). I thought the connection between the two stories was obvious, but apparently not, based on other reviews, so I won’t spoil it here.
It’s very character-driven and focused on family devotion. Much work was put into the art of prose. It’s a story of sisters in a time of misunderstood mental illness. Recommended for fans of literary historical fiction.
I was a little disappointed that the book spelled out a key element instead of letting the subtlety speak for itself. Maybe too many beta readers didn’t get it otherwise.
*Reader’s Choice Nominee Spring 2025*
Language: Some strong language
Sexual Content: Mildly explicit
Violence/Gore: Mild
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
It’s very character-driven and focused on family devotion. Much work was put into the art of prose. It’s a story of sisters in a time of misunderstood mental illness. Recommended for fans of literary historical fiction.
I was a little disappointed that the book spelled out a key element instead of letting the subtlety speak for itself. Maybe too many beta readers didn’t get it otherwise.
*Reader’s Choice Nominee Spring 2025*
Language: Some strong language
Sexual Content: Mildly explicit
Violence/Gore: Mild
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
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