In the Wide Open Light

by Katherine Grant

She is willing to fight for reform, but will she fight for the man she loves?

August 1819

At Northfield Hall, Julia Dixon needs a break from her life as a spinner and mother of three. When she hears that Henry Hunt will be addressing a crowd in Manchester, she decides to add her voice to calls for parliamentary reform.

Her husband, Samuel, doesn’t understand why Julia wants to travel far from home to fight for voting rights for other people—but he won’t stand in her way. After years apart from his family as a sailor, Samuel is grateful to have resurrected his marriage, and he intends to keep Julia happy, no matter what she needs.

As Julia departs, they both know the bonds of their marriage will be tested, but neither of them predict what Julia faces when she gets to St. Peter’s Field. In its aftermath, they are forced to reevaluate everything they hold dear as they fight to reunite once more.

Enjoy this one-hour read from award-winning author Katherine Grant!

119 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 6, 2025

About the author

Katherine Grant writes Regency Romance novels for the modern reader. Her writing has been recognized by Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards, the Next Generation Indie Book Awards, the National Indie Excellence Awards, the Romance Slam Jam Emma Awards, and Shelf Unbound Indie Book Awards. If you love ballgowns, secret kisses, and social commentary, a book hangover is coming your way.

Katherine also hosts the weekly Historical Romance Sampler podcast! Find out more at www.katherinegrantromance.com

Reviews

[i_hype_romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

The newest release in the multi-author Suffragette Uprising series deftly examines the joys and travails of marriage, the challenges of motherhood, and how being a mom and a wife can sometimes make a woman feel like she is losing her sense of self outside those roles.
Julia’s passion for equity has always been one of the things that defined her, and when she is given an opportunity to witness the speech of an activist she admires, she seizes it with both hands.
Samuel loves his wife for her wit and intellect, but struggles to understand why attending the event is more important than their family.
A brilliant, incisive look at both the political and civil unrest of the time and the insular dynamics of a marriage.

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this poignant love story, which combines several themes and interconnects the „Suffragette Uprising“ and the „Northfield Hall“ series. On the one hand, it is about a mature married couple who have grown apart because the wife Julia is unwilling to let restraints and convention dictate her life and wants more out of life and her husband Samuel wants a peaceful family life as he has witnessed enough atrocities, on the other hand it is about the Suffragist Movement in the early 19th century which campaigned for equality, changes in the voting system and fair living and working conditions. The plot is very well written and full of pentup emotion and tension, angst, drama, action, suspense and steamy love scenes. The Peterloo scene was oppressive and moved me to tears, the emotions and mood were so palpable. The author used great imagery to describe how like-minded people marched with hope and confidence in peaceful protest to pursue their common goal and how the rally was crushed with iron force. It also made me sad to think about how long it took for their demands to become a reality and how in some parts of the world they have still not been realised.

Julia and Samuel Dixon have been married for 15 years, but shortly after their wedding Samuel was gang pressed into the navy and Julia was forced to raise their daughter alone and earn a living. At that time she moved to Northfield Hall. When Samuel returned to her injured after years in the service, she was frustrated. Since then they have built a life together with more children and a safe home, but her anger and frustration at her restricted life and Samuel's equanimity has not diminished and her interest in universal suffrage and fair living conditions has grown.
Samuel has resigned himself to his fate and when Julia tells him that she will be travelling to Manchester for the planned demonstration, he cannot stop her, even though he is afraid for her safety, but the risk of losing her forever is too great.
As events come thick and fast, they both begin to rethink their attitude to life and their definition of happiness and security...

If you like moving historical romance novels about married couples who are in a crisis and manage to overcome it together and get their HEA, which are interwoven with an gripping background story, you will love this book!

I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to BookSirens for a copy of this short story and this is my freely given opinion.

This is a short story involving the Northfield Hall residents and is a historical romance that is atypical in that it strays away from the glitter of Mayfair, the Ton, and ballrooms, glances on the aristocracy, and features relatable working class main characters and their thoughts and lives. The differences are refreshing and wonderful.

Julia Dixon is a mature woman, and mother of three, living and working at Northfield Hall, with her husband, Samuel. Samuel and Julia married young and were separated for many years, when he was press-ganged into the navy. Julia was left a single mother of a young daughter, forced to fend for herself. Samuel and Julia were reunited after over a decade apart, but many things have changed since they were idealistic young newlyweds, including Samuel's injuries during his service. But they still found their way back to being a family, including adding two new children to their growing family.

But Julia is restless and wants more in her life, including making a social impact. To this end she seeks to join others at a meeting to hear Henry Hunt speak about social and parliamentary reform in Manchester. This will also give her some much needed time away from the young children, for herself. Samuel does not understand Julia's restlessness and desire to be away from him and the family.

This story is spoken in both Samuel and Julia's voices, expressing their personal fears and insecurities about themselves and how their relationship is changing, as the couple question where they are in life and what they mean to each other, and in their family. It is a story of mature love and devotion, in the face of very normal personal wants, fears, and doubts.

For such a relatively short number of pages, I am impressed by how much history and depth are developed about the main characters and their relationship. It is gritty and realistic, written with warmth and compassion, in the context of real historical events at the time.

4.25 stars out of 5

[Unapologetic Termagant · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's been a while since I’ve read a marriage in crisis story in which the marriage was portrayed as well and as realistically as it was in this lovely novella. At a little over 100 pages, it tackles quite a number of issues and packs quite a punch. In the Wide Open Light is a story of Julia and Samuel, who have technically been married for over 15 years, but who have in reality barely begun to live their lives together due to the injustice they suffered at the beginning of their union. Now both Julia and Samuel are older, more careworn, both emotionally and physically, and, especially in Julia’s case, more resentful of their lot in life. I think it speaks a lot to the times we’re living in and the frustrating trends in contemporary romance that it took a historical romance novella to tackle the issue of a mother and wife worn out by taking care of her family despite her love for them; I honestly cannot think of a contemporary that dares to portray this very common and relatable, but rarely talked about situation. This sweet story was such a fantastic example of why I love the current crop of (mostly indie) historical romance so much: it was so gripping to read about these good, flawed people, their triumphs and tragedies, all while learning about important social justice issues.

And while the important issue kicking off the story was obviously meticulously researched and rendered in vivid detail, my favourite part of the book was the bath scene featuring the spouses towards the end of the book; talk about hurt/comfort. It was so tender and loving, gorgeously erotic, while not shying away from showing the lovers’ bodies weathered by multiple births, a harrowing career in the Navy, and just plain passage of time.

The only thing that didn’t work for me that well was the fact that, in the end, I don’t think we actually heard just how Julia got acquitted. We hear about the main actors involved in the Peterloo Massacre, but I don’t think the text gives any detail on how Julia actually got off (well, it does in the two sex scenes, but here I mean how she evaded prison). Other that that, this was such a lovely gem.

[KelseyreadsHR · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had meant to only read half of this story before bed but hit a point of no return and had it to finish it in one sitting. It was no hardship though, I loved this novella.

Focusing on Samuel and Julia as they navigate their marriage being on the rocks and Julia wanting to attend a speech by the political orator Henry Hunt. It’s not all bad times but ever since Samuel returned from his pressed navy service four years ago, Julia and Samuel haven’t been able to get back in sync with one another. Between having three children, two being under five, and their daily work-there’s not a lot of room left at the end of the day to talk about the hurt and resentment they both still feel from their unwanted ten year separation.

I loved the banter between Samuel and Julia, their interactions were honest and realistic. It was established early on, which hooked me and didn’t want to put it down. I resonated with them and their dynamic. Samuel and Julia never question their love for one another but there’s a disconnect that adds to their already heavy mental and physical load.

I wondered how they would find their way back to one another, their gap being so vast, but loved the way they were able to get back on equal footing again.

I’ve read a few HR that’s mentioned Peterloo Massacre but this was the first one that had the characters on page during the massacre. It was interesting and horrific all at the same time.

There was so much packed into this story and with the pacing and character development, it felt like a complete story. It was well written and nothing seemed to be sacrificed. There’s so many good things I loved about this story and I’m sure I’ve forgotten something but it’s one worth reading.

In the Wide Open Light is the second book in the multi author Suffragette Uprising series and can be read at any point within the author’s The Preston’s series, Northfield Hall Novellas, or as a standalone.

There are two open door encounters.

I received an advance reader copy from Book Sirens. All opinions are my own.

[Alexandra G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Julia loves her husband and their children, but she’s tired of holding down the fort. After raising their first daughter mostly on her own, and 2 new babies since her husband’s return, she’s ready for some freedom – and joining the cause, the suffrage movement.
Barely married and pressganged into the Navy for 15 years, Samuel is just happy to be home – even if it’s minus half a leg. He’s suffered enough for one lifetime and just wants peace. If that means letting his wife go to a political rally for a fortnight, so be it.

Based on loyalty and love, this is not a happy tale. It’s a marriage in crisis; a couple that spent more time apart than together so far. There’s so much pent-up anger and frustration between these two; she feels constricted and suffocated, he feels insecure and powerless and they both swallow their feelings to maintain a fragile truce.
It struck me how quickly she realises her steadfast existence at Northfield Hall isn’t as dreary and demoralising as she assumed, and how lucky she is with her grumbly but accepting husband – a man who will move heaven and earth to see her home safe.
I loved how vividly the eventful day of the Peterloo massacre was written; from the peaceful march and gathering to the quick escalation into violence, the panic of the masses, her personal experience, the fear, the determination, the pain... it almost felt like I was right there alongside her.

It’s a gripping read; raw but very touching, mixed with the history of a dark day in English history. And even though you know there’s a guarantied happy ending, it was still very satisfying to see this couple come out on top, stronger, more connected than before.
This story wasn’t what I expected it to be; it was so much better!

[PlotTrysts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Katherine Grant continues to be unafraid to Go There with her historical romances. This novella features a marriage in kinda/sorta crisis: Julia and Samuel have been married for about a decade, but have only lived together for two hears since he was impressed into the British Navy when they were newlyweds. He's finally home and ready to settle into family life, while Julia is overwhelmed with two new children, a husband she barely knows, and a drive to fight for political change.

Then she decides to attend a rally that turns into a massacre (Peterloo, in case you're a historical junkie like we are) and is arrested. What happens next will shock you! (OK actually what happens next is that Julia and Samuel need to reevaluate their own political ideals while finally talking about their relationship. But it's hard to see how they'll find common ground!)

The book tackles romance fare in the rekindling of the marriage, but also postpartum depression, women's role in the home, expectations of masculinity especially complicated by disability, and more. If you're familiar with Grant's Northfield Hall world, this fits right in. If you're not, this is a great introduction to what she's doing with the historical romance genre.

This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novella.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This compelling short story delves into the challenges faced by a young mother, Julia, as she navigates personal and marital difficulties while seeking involvement in the political movement for parliamentary reform. Drawn to Henry Hunt's speech in Manchester, Julia's quest for change intertwines with her troubled marriage to Samuel, revealing the roots of their strained relationship and her daily struggles.

Despite its brevity, the story unfolds like a comprehensive novel, exploring themes of historical romance, governmental oppression, and personal aspiration. The narrative captivates with its drama and emotional depth, set against the backdrop of the Peterloo Massacre and the fight for reform.

The author's vivid portrayal of the couple's emotions and the shocking violence at St. Peter’s Field highlights the story's historical significance. Julia and Samuel's journey towards renewed love offers a poignant message about overcoming adversity. The epilogue emphasizes the ongoing struggle for rights, showcasing the couple's strengthened bond through their experiences.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Amelia.S · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the Wide Open Light by Katherine Grant is a poignant and stirring glimpse into the heart of personal courage amid political upheaval. Set against the turbulent backdrop of 1819 England, it beautifully weaves love, reform, and resilience into a story that feels both historically rich and deeply human.

Julia Dixon’s journey from quiet domestic life to the roar of St. Peter’s Field is as inspiring as it is heartbreaking. Through her, Grant captures the spirit of women who dared to stand where history told them not to, illuminating the private cost of public conviction. Samuel’s quiet devotion offers a powerful emotional counterpoint his steadfast love grounding the narrative even as the world around them fractures.

Grant’s prose is elegant yet accessible, full of emotional precision and compassion. Every page pulses with the sense that change whether in a nation or a marriage demands both sacrifice and hope.

In the Wide Open Light isn’t just a tale of reform; it’s a meditation on what it means to love, to fight, and to believe in a better world even when the cost feels unbearable.

[Charmaine Fernando · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written novella by Katherine Grant involving a young family and the wife's determination to be part of the universal suffragette movement.

Julia and Samuel Dixon though married for fifteen years have been apart for many of them with Samuel being gang pressed into the navy soon after their wedding. Julia was forced to raise their daughter alone. Now that Samuel is back, Julia is keen to travel to Manchester to participate in the demonstration. While he is concerned for Julia's safety, he does not feel he has the option to dissuade her from travelling there along.

They have grown apart as a couple, being away from each other such a long time and seeing as Julia single handedly raised their family by herself, he does not say anything to dissuade her.

The reader can expect to find abuse, violence, prison, to name a few, while at the same time, witnessing the history of the suffragette movement. I thoroughly enjoyed this and would recommend it.

I received an ARC from the publishers and Book Sirens and submit my honest review voluntarily.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This little historical gem packs so much into such a short read. Set in 1819 during the lead-up to the Peterloo Massacre, it follows Julia, a working-class woman who’s tired of feeling powerless and decides to join the call for reform in Manchester. Her husband, Samuel, is supportive but doesn’t quite understand why she needs to be part of it—and that tension between love, duty, and conviction runs beautifully through the whole story.

For a short read, it has surprising emotional depth. Julia’s determination feels real and grounded, and I loved how her relationship with Samuel is written—it’s not perfect, but there’s such tenderness underneath the strain. The historical detail feels authentic without being heavy-handed, and the pacing kept me hooked from start to finish.

This isn’t just about politics; it’s about courage, connection, and what it means to fight for both justice and love.

A quick but powerful read! It's perfect if you love strong heroines and rich historical settings.

I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Mindy B (reader_of_the_lost_arcs) · Rating 5 out of 5]

History repeats itself! Two hundred years later and we are dealing with corn laws (tarrifs) in the US!

This wonderful book is about a Difference Maker, as Colbert would say. Julia travels to Manchester to take part in a protest and listen to a speaker regarding civil rights, representation in government, and high tarrifs. She and the entire crowd were violently attacked by the cavalry and she was thrown in jail.

Julia and Samuel are GOOD, everyday people (not peers) and are struggling under an oppressive system. I loved them and I just wanted them to be HAPPY and be OK. I so appreciate that she did what she could, and took a step that would eventually be added to many more steps, and made positive change. We need people like her AND people like Samuel who stayed home and provided the foundation.

Thank you to Katherine Grant for the copy of the book and for always writing excellent stories that inspire me to be a better person.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bringing light to a fairly uncovered topic. I only learned about Peterloo a few years ago, and I think it needs to be wider knowledge and taught more in schools! (There is even a film now). This was a great example of taking such a horrible historical event and making it feel even more personal by having are leads right in the thick of it. Yes the romance kind of gets pushed aside for the sake of covering such a difficult time and how conflicted people felt (personal safety vs trying to right the wrong of the government etc). The epilogue does manage to find a happy note to end on without fudging history to make it seem better. I am always blown away by the level of research Katherine Grant manages to fit into even her smallest stories.

[Dominique Englebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

A troubled woman in troubled times
Julia suffocates in her marriage; she needs some respite from the monotony of her life. She decides to go to Manchester and attend a peaceful meeting over parliamentary reform. She believes in the fight for change but abhors violence. Little does she know…
The Peterloo Massacre as it has become known seen through the eyes of a woman of the working class, the excitement of the days preceding that fateful August day, the sheer terror of being charged by the cavalry with nowhere to go due to the masses of people running in all directions to try and escape what was a peaceful meeting and turned into a tragedy.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Gloria Pastorino · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly beautiful book. It doesn’t help escape reality like historical romance usually does, at least for me, so be prepared! This is the story of a marriage in crisis, of common people who have lived a hard life, of injustice and rebellion. And it’s part of the magnificent world Grant created, a world full of people who believe that a change is possible, but also of people who don’t care about changing the world, but just want to survive. A world in which
Lord Preston is the main character, larger than life, but so very human. This book works well as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading it as part of the Prestons saga.

[Debdutch · Rating 5 out of 5]

“In the Wide Open Light” by Katherine Grant

-An intense story combining a love story with serious history. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.

Set amid the turmoil of the Peterloo Massacre, Julia and Samuel’s love faces true tests.
This short yet powerful tale blends romance, hardship, and the fight for justice.
Themes of oppression, resilience, and rekindled love are woven with emotional intensity.

A stirring, historically rich romance that lingers long after the final page.

[Lyn D Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an extremely intense and well written historical romance. It tells of a marriage having troubles, a woman burdened, drama, action, a reform gathering, government abuse, violence, prison, and so many emotional issues, plot twists, and intense moments that kept me very engaged, the characters were complex, interesting, and likable. I enjoyed how their love overcame many obstacles. The ending was very good. I highly recommend reading!

[Kate Abbott · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very short story of a couple who didnt see each other and with past tragedy between them, didnt really talk. I liked the way they both came to realise what they had. This was set around an event that is not often broached in Romance, so it was good to see a story slightly out of the box. I will be looking for more stories from this author

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received a free version to read in advance of publication.
I loved the link to a real event that happened, especially for a Northfield Hall story. The characters are relatable, with real emotions and challenges in their lives. While anchored in historical events, the story is rife with emotion and feels relevant to the modern world -- especially the modern world in 2025. I can definitely recommend reading this story!

[Trina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoy reading more about Northfield Hall, wonderful characters and great world building. Although most of this story takes place out of the Hall the people lives there influence the happenings. Enjoyed learning a bit more about life in those times. Look forward to more in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Julianne W · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was incredible. It packed in so much into a novella format: rich, accurate and accessible history of progressive movement in Regency England; rich, believable story of mature characters at a crossroads in their marriage; beautiful romance and care and sexiness! Everything I love in a historic romance, beautiful written and done. Loved it start to finish.

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an interesting story about the struggles of ordinary people in the time of the Peterloo massacre.
The story centers around Julia and Samuel's marriage, their children, and her quest to make a better world for generations to come.
There were plot twists, lots of emotion, some violence, and the interesting story of what happened at the gathering.

[Nicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful read!

I haven't read many romances about couples that are already married. After reading In The Wide Open Light, I now know I need more of this. I really related to the heroine. This novella is beautifully written and relevant. Highly recommend if you love short, historical romances with bold heroines and supportive heroes.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an important short read that relates the Peterloo Massacre. The historical event serves as a backdrop for the Dixon's as they navigate their marriage. The emotions this story evokes are powerful!

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Throughly enjoyed Julia and Samuel's story of enduring love amidst the struggle of votes for women and the suffragettes. As Julua and Samuel embark on a new journey that will bring them both closer together.

[Lola]

A married couple who have spent more years apart than together?? Yes, please.
After a decade apart, they find themselves thrust into the challenge of rebuilding their marriage while also navigating the complex realities of family life, political activism, and personal growth.

I found that this book is an excellent introduction to Grant’s masterful blend of romance, history, and social commentary.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Imromanticallyinvolved · Rating 4 out of 5]

For such a short number of pages, I am impressed with the amount of depth to both the couples issues and the political reform movement. These were blended together so perfectly that I can easily imagine that this story is a personal account of events. It was written in a way that I could empathize with Samuel and Julia equally as they struggled to redefine themselves and their marriage. What I also appreciated was that Sam's feelings were validated and he was never portrayed as the "bad guy" as Julia set out on her quest both literally and figuratively.

I was fascinated and horrified by the events of what is now known as the Peterloo Massacre. The vivid details really put it in perspective and made my heart race right alongside Julia. Having characters with a first hand account of this tragedy was a brilliant way to make it feel personal, relatable and unforgettable.

This story is not the usual escape we find in a romance but it also does not lack heart. It's an excellent example of the reality of motherhood and marriage after the glow has dulled a bit. All the feelings, conflict and events felt credible and authentic with believable resolutions. A wonderful, well-researched read that grabs your emotions and connects us to a past that should never be forgotten.

I received an early copy from the author (Thank you!) All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[R Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too few people know about the Peterloo massacre and it’s cruel injustice. This book is a short novel based on that incident. It brings to light the day to day struggles people faced to make ends meet and how difficult it is to stand up for your rights. It is also a love story about a couple overcoming adversity an£ find their comfort in each other. The epilogue makes the point that the struggle for rights continues. More people should understand this.