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The Rebel of Seventh Avenue
Fashion, I came to realise, wasn’t just about beautiful dresses. It was about self-respect, freedom of expression and power.
1910, Edinburgh. Young seamstress Maisie McIntyre’s world shatters with her mother’s death. Desperate to escape the grinding poverty that has defined her life so far, Maisie makes a daring she steals a bolt of peacock-blue silk, a stash of money and sails for New York City.
With nothing but raw talent and fierce determination, Maisie’s gift for dressmaking opens doors she never imagined. As she builds her couture empire, designing bold, modern fashions for Manhattan’s elite, Maisie falls for Joseph Jackson, a talented Black architect with dreams as ambitious as her own. But in a world steeped in prejudice, she finds herself facing an impossible choice.
Vividly recreating the glamour and grit of early 20th century New York – from the devastating Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire to the emerging women’s rights movement – comes a sweeping tale of ambition, love and a woman determined to fashion not just beautiful clothes but her own place in a man’s world. Fans of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, An American Beauty and novels by Marie Benedict will be spellbound by The Rebel of Seventh Avenue.
Readers have fallen in love with The Rebel of Seventh Avenue
‘This is one of the best books I have ever read, and my favorite read of 2025. Do not miss this beautiful story!’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I loved everything about this book and it kept me reading non stop… loved every page.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘The Rebel of Seventh Avenue instantly became one of my top ten favorite books.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘An enchanting story of a woman who lived to create in New York, inspired by the story of Coco Chanel. Impossible to put down, from start to finish.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Completely fascinating… a tear-jearker… so beautifully written.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘What a stunning historical fiction saga that completely swept me away. It's a story full of female empowerment, resilience and courage at a time where women were expect to be in the background.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘INCREDIBLE and one I will be thinking about for a long time to come. It was beautifully written and I felt so attached to all the characters and was very sad to finish it.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Beautiful historical fiction… a must read.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘If you close your eyes, it will take you from the sewing factories, to the beautiful work room and to the factory floor in Edinburgh… wonderful and heartbreaking. Such a beautiful book.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘An utterly amazing read. From the minute you read the first page you will not be able to put it down until you read the last page.
1910, Edinburgh. Young seamstress Maisie McIntyre’s world shatters with her mother’s death. Desperate to escape the grinding poverty that has defined her life so far, Maisie makes a daring she steals a bolt of peacock-blue silk, a stash of money and sails for New York City.
With nothing but raw talent and fierce determination, Maisie’s gift for dressmaking opens doors she never imagined. As she builds her couture empire, designing bold, modern fashions for Manhattan’s elite, Maisie falls for Joseph Jackson, a talented Black architect with dreams as ambitious as her own. But in a world steeped in prejudice, she finds herself facing an impossible choice.
Vividly recreating the glamour and grit of early 20th century New York – from the devastating Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire to the emerging women’s rights movement – comes a sweeping tale of ambition, love and a woman determined to fashion not just beautiful clothes but her own place in a man’s world. Fans of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, An American Beauty and novels by Marie Benedict will be spellbound by The Rebel of Seventh Avenue.
Readers have fallen in love with The Rebel of Seventh Avenue
‘This is one of the best books I have ever read, and my favorite read of 2025. Do not miss this beautiful story!’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I loved everything about this book and it kept me reading non stop… loved every page.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘The Rebel of Seventh Avenue instantly became one of my top ten favorite books.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘An enchanting story of a woman who lived to create in New York, inspired by the story of Coco Chanel. Impossible to put down, from start to finish.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Completely fascinating… a tear-jearker… so beautifully written.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘What a stunning historical fiction saga that completely swept me away. It's a story full of female empowerment, resilience and courage at a time where women were expect to be in the background.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘INCREDIBLE and one I will be thinking about for a long time to come. It was beautifully written and I felt so attached to all the characters and was very sad to finish it.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Beautiful historical fiction… a must read.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘If you close your eyes, it will take you from the sewing factories, to the beautiful work room and to the factory floor in Edinburgh… wonderful and heartbreaking. Such a beautiful book.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘An utterly amazing read. From the minute you read the first page you will not be able to put it down until you read the last page.
430 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2025
897 people are currently reading
601 people want to read
About the author
Annabelle Marx
3 books47 followersAnnabelle is the author of two historical fiction novels: the bestselling The Herbalist's Secret and the recently published The Rebel of Seventh Avenue.
Brought up in Dorset, America, London, Hong Kong and Wiltshire, Annabelle has worked in photography, event production and marketing. But her passions are in food and writing.
Running her own cottage industry making handmade jams, jellies and chutneys she became the recipient of two Great Taste Awards.
When writing began to take over her life, she joined the Faber Academy and completed their How to Write a Novel course. Annabelle now lives between Sutherland and Wiltshire and recently finished an MA in Creative Writing at Bath Spa University.
Brought up in Dorset, America, London, Hong Kong and Wiltshire, Annabelle has worked in photography, event production and marketing. But her passions are in food and writing.
Running her own cottage industry making handmade jams, jellies and chutneys she became the recipient of two Great Taste Awards.
When writing began to take over her life, she joined the Faber Academy and completed their How to Write a Novel course. Annabelle now lives between Sutherland and Wiltshire and recently finished an MA in Creative Writing at Bath Spa University.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
July 12, 2025
Absolutely loved this historical fiction novel by Annabelle Marx from the first page to the last! Emotional, riveting, fascinating and powerful. It takes us on a journey through the world of fashion design in the past and all the challenges women faced to have a voice, freedom, independence and in owning a business. It covers numerous sensitive topics but handled respectfully. This is a great novel that I am very glad I read. I did not have time to read and review it due to some sudden family priorities for Storm publishing when offered to me but I knew I would read it later on my kindle unlimited subscription. Which I have come this weekend. I could not set it down as it captivated me. I highly recommend this wonderfully written novel with an intriguing plot, excellent cast of characters and beautifully presented descriptions. I cannot praise this novel enough. Read it and see!
April 25, 2025
I have loved historical fiction books since I was young and this had everything I love of these kind of books. I can't say I am particularly interested in fashion but I have been interested in historical fashion. This book did such a wonderful way to portray every single outfit and it was done to the details! For some reason I was not very bothered by these smaller details like which fabric or how what material the button would be made of. I felt that this just added an extra layer to the story and made it so much more believable. Something else I did enjoy was how the author came with Maisie's designs! They felt so genuine and unique and it's just a shame that this is a book and not reality. The author did an excellent job with that! I am impressed over the amount of details of every design Maisie made and that made this book a wonderful read.
As for the story itself I throughly enjoyed it. I loved Maisie's journey. I liked how she stood up not only for herself but also for her friends. I loved her friendship with Oti but also with the other seamstresses that worked for her. She saw the person for who she was and not the color of her skin. That cannot have been easy in those days and especially in the beginning when Maisie just started her journey as a fashion designer. But she never backed down from her principles and she always put herself first and that cannot have been easy in those days.
We follow her from her early teens to her sixties and this book spans over decades. Sometimes I felt the story a little bit dragging but I did like how the author never stayed so much during one time. Like weeks could gone by, even years. The author did stay in certain areas but the story kept moving and I liked that. I did find, however, the last part a little bit weaker than the first.
Except from the last part of this book, I might have wished for more romance. However, it was very clear that Maisie wasn't that kind of woman and she made her own way through life even though the pressure of getting married must have been strong. But I loved her courage for taking her own path in life and love might not have come from a man (I won't spoil anything about the love interest) but her love was the clothes she designed and that was fun to read and it made everything worth it in the end.
Thank you netgalley for this arc. My opinions are my own.
As for the story itself I throughly enjoyed it. I loved Maisie's journey. I liked how she stood up not only for herself but also for her friends. I loved her friendship with Oti but also with the other seamstresses that worked for her. She saw the person for who she was and not the color of her skin. That cannot have been easy in those days and especially in the beginning when Maisie just started her journey as a fashion designer. But she never backed down from her principles and she always put herself first and that cannot have been easy in those days.
We follow her from her early teens to her sixties and this book spans over decades. Sometimes I felt the story a little bit dragging but I did like how the author never stayed so much during one time. Like weeks could gone by, even years. The author did stay in certain areas but the story kept moving and I liked that. I did find, however, the last part a little bit weaker than the first.
Except from the last part of this book, I might have wished for more romance. However, it was very clear that Maisie wasn't that kind of woman and she made her own way through life even though the pressure of getting married must have been strong. But I loved her courage for taking her own path in life and love might not have come from a man (I won't spoil anything about the love interest) but her love was the clothes she designed and that was fun to read and it made everything worth it in the end.
Thank you netgalley for this arc. My opinions are my own.
May 18, 2025
** 3.75 stars** thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing.
For a book I wasn't expecting to be invested in, the end managed to make me cry. This is a tale of an American dream during a time where all the odds were stacked against a single woman refusing to be controlled by men. Is it a little idealistic? Perhaps. Unrealistic? Probably. But it is a beautiful story, one where you root for the main character the whole way from childhood to death. I do think, however, that being a fan of fashion is kind of a must. I am not that into it myself, and the great paragraphs of detail were lost on me as I skimmed for the greater developments and drama in Maisie's life. I think Maisie's story with Joseph is what truly made me cry. A story of missed opportunities, pride and, yes, a ambition getting in the way of a potential family and love, but neither truly regretting it because of what it allowed Maisie to do. Her story is of what beauty can come from being single and creating your own family not through marriage, but through friends, and chosen connections. It's not a very approachable read, and covers topics such as sexual assault, harrasment, racism, sexism and misogyny, war and PTSD, be warned. But it is still a haunting and hopeful story.
For a book I wasn't expecting to be invested in, the end managed to make me cry. This is a tale of an American dream during a time where all the odds were stacked against a single woman refusing to be controlled by men. Is it a little idealistic? Perhaps. Unrealistic? Probably. But it is a beautiful story, one where you root for the main character the whole way from childhood to death. I do think, however, that being a fan of fashion is kind of a must. I am not that into it myself, and the great paragraphs of detail were lost on me as I skimmed for the greater developments and drama in Maisie's life. I think Maisie's story with Joseph is what truly made me cry. A story of missed opportunities, pride and, yes, a ambition getting in the way of a potential family and love, but neither truly regretting it because of what it allowed Maisie to do. Her story is of what beauty can come from being single and creating your own family not through marriage, but through friends, and chosen connections. It's not a very approachable read, and covers topics such as sexual assault, harrasment, racism, sexism and misogyny, war and PTSD, be warned. But it is still a haunting and hopeful story.
April 1, 2025
As much as I wanted to live this book I just didn't. The synopsis really intrigued me - Scottish roots (my maternal grandparents), NYC (my birthplace), fashion and a strong female (who doesn't love that). However, hard as I tried I just couldn't connect with the main character - I just didn't like her. I also felt the book was way to detailed on the descriptions of fabrics, colors, movements of fabrics, etc. Unless you're really interested in that it's kind of boring. It didn't get really going until about 50% and I thought finally it had found its footing but then it got lost again. Not for me. Thanks to Netgalley, author and publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 17, 2026
The Rebel of Seventh Avenue was a bit of a surprise. I do enjoy a good historical fiction book, but they are usually set in times of war and conflict. The two world wars, which this book spans and beyond, are really nothing more than background to the story of a seamstress who evolves into a world-famous designer and couture house. At the same time, there are social issues brought in that are indicative of the times and show how one woman dealt with the constrictions society placed on her life.
Maisie McIntyre grew up in Edinburgh, Scotland. Her family was quite poor. Her father disappeared when she was young, leaving her mother to figure out how to care for her two daughters. When she is gifted a sewing machine to ease the conscience of the wealthy woman she worked for, her mother works as a seamstress. Of the two daughters, Maisie is the only one who shows an interest in her mother’s work and learns from her. Maisie has dreams far beyond Edinburgh, but she doesn’t know how to achieve them until circumstances force her to bolt the city. She heads for New York with her mother’s sewing machine, a bolt of blue silk, and lots of ambition.
The story is primarily set in New York City, where Maisie navigates building a fashion empire. She makes friends and loses them in tragic situations. She finds the love of her life, but it’s a forbidden love in its time that threatens to topple everything she has built.
I’m not a fashion maven, but I loved how The Rebel of Seventh Avenue showed Maisie trying to navigate a world that she was so far ahead of. She needs a wealthy patron to get things going, and helps a mousy, quiet new bride come into her own through fashion. Still, the old values prevailed, and Maisie had to make choices. There are several times, though, where she draws a line in the sand and will not cave to social pressure to do something else. At the same time, she’s conscious of where she came from and all of the people who are depending on her for work.
To read my complete review, please go to The Rebel of Seventh Avenue by Annabelle Marx – Strong Women in Historical Fashion Fiction
Maisie McIntyre grew up in Edinburgh, Scotland. Her family was quite poor. Her father disappeared when she was young, leaving her mother to figure out how to care for her two daughters. When she is gifted a sewing machine to ease the conscience of the wealthy woman she worked for, her mother works as a seamstress. Of the two daughters, Maisie is the only one who shows an interest in her mother’s work and learns from her. Maisie has dreams far beyond Edinburgh, but she doesn’t know how to achieve them until circumstances force her to bolt the city. She heads for New York with her mother’s sewing machine, a bolt of blue silk, and lots of ambition.
The story is primarily set in New York City, where Maisie navigates building a fashion empire. She makes friends and loses them in tragic situations. She finds the love of her life, but it’s a forbidden love in its time that threatens to topple everything she has built.
I’m not a fashion maven, but I loved how The Rebel of Seventh Avenue showed Maisie trying to navigate a world that she was so far ahead of. She needs a wealthy patron to get things going, and helps a mousy, quiet new bride come into her own through fashion. Still, the old values prevailed, and Maisie had to make choices. There are several times, though, where she draws a line in the sand and will not cave to social pressure to do something else. At the same time, she’s conscious of where she came from and all of the people who are depending on her for work.
To read my complete review, please go to The Rebel of Seventh Avenue by Annabelle Marx – Strong Women in Historical Fashion Fiction
May 12, 2025
I chose this book for many reasons. Both the cover and the title appealed to me. It's set in New York City in the early 20th century. I love historical novels set in New York. The premise of a young immigrant woman trying to make her place in the fashion industry sounds interesting. And, even, more interesting is the hint of an interracial relationship which could have been full of difficulties in the early 1900s.
So, the stage was set. But, somehow, it did not come together for me. There were many, many pages describing fabrics. The colour, the shimmer, the sheen, how the fabric would flow. The description of the clothing created was endless and repetitive. Colours, collars, cuffs, trim. Perhaps someone who is a fashion designer would be able to appreciate it. It was just too much for me.
The characters did not seem real to me. I did not feel like I knew any of them. The dynamics of the relationship between the MFC (Maisie) and her man, didn't develop. The description was superficial. I just could not connect. On the positive side, Maisie was a determined woman to achieve what she set out to do. I just wish I could have enjoyed her journey more.
I always feel bad when a book does not live up to my expectations. I do see many positive reviews. Which is good. This just was not the book for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
So, the stage was set. But, somehow, it did not come together for me. There were many, many pages describing fabrics. The colour, the shimmer, the sheen, how the fabric would flow. The description of the clothing created was endless and repetitive. Colours, collars, cuffs, trim. Perhaps someone who is a fashion designer would be able to appreciate it. It was just too much for me.
The characters did not seem real to me. I did not feel like I knew any of them. The dynamics of the relationship between the MFC (Maisie) and her man, didn't develop. The description was superficial. I just could not connect. On the positive side, Maisie was a determined woman to achieve what she set out to do. I just wish I could have enjoyed her journey more.
I always feel bad when a book does not live up to my expectations. I do see many positive reviews. Which is good. This just was not the book for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
April 21, 2025
This story started out strong. Interesting main character and backstory, New York City on the horizon, and detailed discussions of fashion. I'm not a fashion type of person but the way different fabrics and sewing techniques were discussed were interesting, even to me.
However, the second part of the book dragged on and on, with detailed explanations of situations and historical events. The reader needs a bit of room for their own imagination and interpretation of the story, but this started to feel more like a history textbook than a novel. I was increasingly bored and started to dislike most characters. For some reason, they lacked depth and started to change too much in the second half of the book.
Overall, not a bad book, but maybe this just wasn't for me.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this e-arc.
However, the second part of the book dragged on and on, with detailed explanations of situations and historical events. The reader needs a bit of room for their own imagination and interpretation of the story, but this started to feel more like a history textbook than a novel. I was increasingly bored and started to dislike most characters. For some reason, they lacked depth and started to change too much in the second half of the book.
Overall, not a bad book, but maybe this just wasn't for me.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this e-arc.
January 14, 2026
You’ll find me at the forefront of a historical fiction queue!!!
I find them really reflective, insightful and empowering, especially as a woman, and The Rebel of Seventh Avenue did not fail in delivering these.
This story is very character driven; begins with Maisie and ends with her.
I’m always a sucker for stories of resilient and rebellious women, because, as I’ve come to understand, the world isn’t an easy passage for women, and at such, you have to demand for what you want.
Maisie was such a fantastic character to glean through. Her life was a riveting experience that pulled me in and left me full.
It must have taken a lottt to be unconventional in the 1900s, but Maisie held her ground.
Although, towards the end, the story got too descriptive and filled with exaggerating prose that wasn’t needed, this was still a fantastic book!
I find them really reflective, insightful and empowering, especially as a woman, and The Rebel of Seventh Avenue did not fail in delivering these.
This story is very character driven; begins with Maisie and ends with her.
I’m always a sucker for stories of resilient and rebellious women, because, as I’ve come to understand, the world isn’t an easy passage for women, and at such, you have to demand for what you want.
Maisie was such a fantastic character to glean through. Her life was a riveting experience that pulled me in and left me full.
It must have taken a lottt to be unconventional in the 1900s, but Maisie held her ground.
Although, towards the end, the story got too descriptive and filled with exaggerating prose that wasn’t needed, this was still a fantastic book!
May 9, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy
The Rebel of Seventh Avenue by Annabelle Marx is a first person-POV historical set in Scotland and the US in the early twentieth century. Maisie McIntyre’s entire life was changed when her family received a Singer sewing machine, developing a love of sewing, fashion, and design. When her mother dies, she steals a bolt of gorgeous, expensive fabric and heads to New York to change her future.
What I really liked was how honest the narrative was about the difficulties faced by interracial and Queer couples at the time. The love of Maisie’s life is Joseph, the brother of one of her employees (who is a very talented embroiderer) but at every turn, it is made obvious that no matter how much they love each other, New York society is not going to accept them. There’s mentions of a racist attack against Joseph’s friend, a Black man involved in a relationship with a white woman, and Maisie’s most important client early in her career states very clearly that she will not support a designer who employs people of color or is in a relationship with them. Maisie also has the chance of having a lavender marriage with a gay man who later becomes her friend and we see the pressure for those marriages. None of this is easy to read and some of it is very heartbreaking and possibly triggering for some readers, but these things did happen.
The tone is a lot more reflective and melancholy. We open with Maisie looking at a wedding dress she sewed for herself but never had a chance to wear and then the rest of the book is her hardships, the reality of the world she lives in, and the tragedies connected to those things. What was really interesting was how familiar it feels in the current climate. The first World War and then the Roaring Twenties followed by the economic downturn of the Great Depression mirror a lot of what is happening right now as we head into what could very well be a global recession. Much like the flappers moving away from grand embellishments and accessories, I can see people around me spending less and less.
I think someone who is really into fashion history would be very interested in this. I was unaware of how much embroidery played a part in early twentieth century fashions outside of wedding dresses or traditional gowns. The plot also recognizes the part that Black Americans played in fashion and the hurdles they faced to get a job and be recognized for their talents. There’s also mentions of Hollywood and fashion icons, which adds a lot of flavor and voice to the text.
Content warning for mentions of sexual assault and depictions of pregnancy, birth homophobia and racism
I would recommend this to fans fashion history and readers of historical looking for something that takes place in the turn of the twentieth century
The Rebel of Seventh Avenue by Annabelle Marx is a first person-POV historical set in Scotland and the US in the early twentieth century. Maisie McIntyre’s entire life was changed when her family received a Singer sewing machine, developing a love of sewing, fashion, and design. When her mother dies, she steals a bolt of gorgeous, expensive fabric and heads to New York to change her future.
What I really liked was how honest the narrative was about the difficulties faced by interracial and Queer couples at the time. The love of Maisie’s life is Joseph, the brother of one of her employees (who is a very talented embroiderer) but at every turn, it is made obvious that no matter how much they love each other, New York society is not going to accept them. There’s mentions of a racist attack against Joseph’s friend, a Black man involved in a relationship with a white woman, and Maisie’s most important client early in her career states very clearly that she will not support a designer who employs people of color or is in a relationship with them. Maisie also has the chance of having a lavender marriage with a gay man who later becomes her friend and we see the pressure for those marriages. None of this is easy to read and some of it is very heartbreaking and possibly triggering for some readers, but these things did happen.
The tone is a lot more reflective and melancholy. We open with Maisie looking at a wedding dress she sewed for herself but never had a chance to wear and then the rest of the book is her hardships, the reality of the world she lives in, and the tragedies connected to those things. What was really interesting was how familiar it feels in the current climate. The first World War and then the Roaring Twenties followed by the economic downturn of the Great Depression mirror a lot of what is happening right now as we head into what could very well be a global recession. Much like the flappers moving away from grand embellishments and accessories, I can see people around me spending less and less.
I think someone who is really into fashion history would be very interested in this. I was unaware of how much embroidery played a part in early twentieth century fashions outside of wedding dresses or traditional gowns. The plot also recognizes the part that Black Americans played in fashion and the hurdles they faced to get a job and be recognized for their talents. There’s also mentions of Hollywood and fashion icons, which adds a lot of flavor and voice to the text.
Content warning for mentions of sexual assault and depictions of pregnancy, birth homophobia and racism
I would recommend this to fans fashion history and readers of historical looking for something that takes place in the turn of the twentieth century
May 20, 2025
I love historical fiction & so when I saw this book on NetGalley, I requested it right away. The cover is so beautiful & I really wanted to enjoy this book.
I was so disappointed when I could not connect with the FMC & the story. The plot spans over decades & it just felt a bit drawn out for me. The book was repetitive. The historical setting and the potential for exploring an interracial relationship in early 1900s NYC were intriguing but the book ultimately fell flat for me. The characters felt shallow and underdeveloped, and I never felt truly invested in any of them.
If you are into fashion, overly detailed descriptions of fabrics and fashion design, you will probably like this book.
I was so disappointed when I could not connect with the FMC & the story. The plot spans over decades & it just felt a bit drawn out for me. The book was repetitive. The historical setting and the potential for exploring an interracial relationship in early 1900s NYC were intriguing but the book ultimately fell flat for me. The characters felt shallow and underdeveloped, and I never felt truly invested in any of them.
If you are into fashion, overly detailed descriptions of fabrics and fashion design, you will probably like this book.
April 19, 2025
This was wonderful historical fiction, with vibrant characters facing real life issues. Maisie McIntyre dreams of better things and she makes it happen. The portrayal of race issues in America was well done, as was the way the major world events impacted her life. The philanthropy throughout the book was good to read about, and of course , the fashion was fun. Although sad in places, there was a lot of joy as well. As it covered a long timeline, there were lots of changes in attitudes and habits, which were also a pleasure to read about. A thoroughly entertaining book, many thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing an ARC.
July 27, 2025
A beautifully written historical fiction tale that drew out so many emotions. Maisie is a strong woman who flees to America to assert her independence and individuality. She becomes a couturier to some of the richest women in America continually expands her business showcasing her unique approach to fashion. She understands outfitting women is more than just a pretty dress. Her personal life may never have been what would have ultimately satisfied her, but she finds love and friendship, along with heartbreaking losses.
As she describes fabric and her fashions, it is easy to visualize the garment down to the minute details of the embroidery.
Prejudice, war, economic depression, women’s right’s, and family (blood or otherwise) are all strong themes.
Listened on Hoopla.
As she describes fabric and her fashions, it is easy to visualize the garment down to the minute details of the embroidery.
Prejudice, war, economic depression, women’s right’s, and family (blood or otherwise) are all strong themes.
Listened on Hoopla.
Read
October 3, 2025Could use more discussion of actual dressmaking but still a good read!
March 25, 2025
I was excited to read Annabelle Marx’s latest novel, even though I know nothing about the history of fashion, or anything much at all about the world of clothes designing. I learned so much.! The story is set in the early 20th century, and follows an ambitious fashion designer called Maisie McIntyre. We see her rise from the slums of Edinburgh, to the wealthy circles of New York, to the glamour of Hollywood, gradually perfecting her art, creating the iconic fashions of the era. Maisie says at one point: “fashion, I came to realise, wasn’t just about the beautiful dresses, it was about self-respect, freedom of expression and power.”
This novel covers so much - female ambition, the fight for equality, black rights, war, love, heartbreak - I could go on.
Annabelle Marx has written a wonderful, thought provoking, heartwarming book, weaving fact and fiction seamlessly. Brilliant stuff!
This novel covers so much - female ambition, the fight for equality, black rights, war, love, heartbreak - I could go on.
Annabelle Marx has written a wonderful, thought provoking, heartwarming book, weaving fact and fiction seamlessly. Brilliant stuff!
April 30, 2025
I picked up this ARC as this novel’s description seemed to be a good combination of some of my interests - the lives of women, fashion, and emotional explorations of the lives of others. On the whole, the story is interesting, and the broader strokes of the protagonist’s life are interesting. I did appreciate the detail that went into researching the history of fashion and trying to align this story through multiple large events in American and world history.
The reason why this book lost some stars for me had to do with the quality of the writing. I caught a few syntax and grammatical errors in this electronic ARC that I hope are removed before publication. I also found the dialogue to be a bit clunky in some places and the characters using modern day parlance and vocabulary that does not fit the time period. But beyond that, there were portions of the work that tended to rely on a lot of telling the reader what happened rather than showing them through experience. A lot of devastating and emotionally disturbing events occur in this protagonist’s life and they’re just told to us instead of them truly being unpacked and showing us how and why they were so emotionally fraught for the protagonist.
I also had qualms about the ways in which minor characters who were people of color were written. The protagonist’s Premier in her cotoure house is an African American woman who seems to be injected into the story as a sort of blind support for the main character in her expeditions, or subservient role. There were passages where I felt like the character in question (Oti) was extremely one dimensional and only there to serve as a wing woman for our protagonist. There are quite a lot of passages actually that seem to just be a lot of virtue signaling and attempts of our white protagonist to be a girl boss or champion against bigotry and racism in a performative manner.
Ultimately, while I think the overall plot and bones of this work are good, there were some issues I had with the delivery of the writing and quality of it that meant that this novel just didn’t work as well for me as I would have liked. I do think that this is worth reading if you are interested in learning about fashion throughout history and how the rise of couture houses came to be.
The reason why this book lost some stars for me had to do with the quality of the writing. I caught a few syntax and grammatical errors in this electronic ARC that I hope are removed before publication. I also found the dialogue to be a bit clunky in some places and the characters using modern day parlance and vocabulary that does not fit the time period. But beyond that, there were portions of the work that tended to rely on a lot of telling the reader what happened rather than showing them through experience. A lot of devastating and emotionally disturbing events occur in this protagonist’s life and they’re just told to us instead of them truly being unpacked and showing us how and why they were so emotionally fraught for the protagonist.
I also had qualms about the ways in which minor characters who were people of color were written. The protagonist’s Premier in her cotoure house is an African American woman who seems to be injected into the story as a sort of blind support for the main character in her expeditions, or subservient role. There were passages where I felt like the character in question (Oti) was extremely one dimensional and only there to serve as a wing woman for our protagonist. There are quite a lot of passages actually that seem to just be a lot of virtue signaling and attempts of our white protagonist to be a girl boss or champion against bigotry and racism in a performative manner.
Ultimately, while I think the overall plot and bones of this work are good, there were some issues I had with the delivery of the writing and quality of it that meant that this novel just didn’t work as well for me as I would have liked. I do think that this is worth reading if you are interested in learning about fashion throughout history and how the rise of couture houses came to be.
June 1, 2025
"Fashion, I came to realise, wasn't just about beautiful dresses, it was about self-respect, freedom of expression and power"
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a stunning historical fiction saga that completely swept me away. You don’t need to be a fashion expert to connect and truly immerse yourself in the story of Maisie McIntyre - 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙍𝙚𝙗𝙚𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙎𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙝 𝘼𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙪𝙚. It’s a story full of female empowerment, resilience and courage at a time where women were expect to be in the background. I’m a huge fan of immersive and niche historical fiction with unforgettable and strong characters that inspire you. It’s truly a love letter to fashion and feminism and I did not expect to enjoy it as much as I did.
The story follows Maisie McIntyre’s journey from her humble beginnings in Edinburgh to establishing herself as a fashion visionary in New York and dressing societies’ elite. The narrative spans decades, from 1910s to 1960s. The are some real historical events weaved into the story, for example the suffragette movement or the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire of 1911. You can tell that the author did her research and delivered because the impact of these events, whilst fictionalised, left a some deep mark in the character’s heart.
Along the way, we meet some truly extraordinary and tenacious group of women, all united through their immigrant roots and love for fabrics, embroidery, colour and fashion. I found them to be very authentic and true to their nature - whilst I didn’t connect to all of them, I respected them so much and loved seeing how those relationships developed. I loved how Maisie always stood by her values and protected herself but also those she love fiercely, which as an immigrant woman in 1920s New York, must not been easy.
The story is not without its tragedy however, and there were quite a few impactful and brutal scenes that made me angry for the injustice but also tugged at my heartstrings. I will be lying if I didn’t admit that I teared up at some parts.. There is a bit of romance that you do root for, but you soon realise that Maisie is not that woman, which must’ve been quite tough at a time where society expected your life’s purpose to be marriage. This just made me admire her more!
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙍𝙚𝙗𝙚𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙎𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙝 𝘼𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙪𝙚 reminded me why I love a well-researched, purposeful and vivid historical fiction story. I enjoyed reading this greatly and Maisie’s love for fashion and colour was electrifying.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing this copy in exchange for a review.
December 3, 2025
Today on “Y’all Have to Read This,” I’ve got a powerful historical fiction novel for you. The Rebel of Seventh Avenue by Annabell Marx follows the remarkable life of Maisie McIntyre, a woman who rises from extreme poverty in early 1900s Edinburgh to build a fashion empire in New York City.
The daughter of a gifted seamstress, Maisie grows up learning the craft at her mother’s side. After her mother’s death, she secretly plans her escape to America, determined to use her talent to become a top-tier tailor for the wealthy women of Fifth Avenue. The novel spans her entire life from childhood to her final days, revealing a woman who is resilient, resourceful, and unshakeably determined even in the face of profound grief.
Marx also weaves in the harsh realities of the era: the exploitation of female immigrants, the brutal working conditions, and the sacrifices many women made just to survive. It’s rich, emotional, and full of history.
I really enjoyed this book and gave it four stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
And honestly? I think it would make a fantastic movie.Check it out and let me know what you think! Be sure to like and follow for more book recs.
Until next time, Happy Reading, Y’all! 💕📚
The daughter of a gifted seamstress, Maisie grows up learning the craft at her mother’s side. After her mother’s death, she secretly plans her escape to America, determined to use her talent to become a top-tier tailor for the wealthy women of Fifth Avenue. The novel spans her entire life from childhood to her final days, revealing a woman who is resilient, resourceful, and unshakeably determined even in the face of profound grief.
Marx also weaves in the harsh realities of the era: the exploitation of female immigrants, the brutal working conditions, and the sacrifices many women made just to survive. It’s rich, emotional, and full of history.
I really enjoyed this book and gave it four stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
And honestly? I think it would make a fantastic movie.Check it out and let me know what you think! Be sure to like and follow for more book recs.
Until next time, Happy Reading, Y’all! 💕📚
April 8, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
While I enjoyed the descriptions of period fashion, I could not connect with the characters, specifically the main character. Her life was a bit too uncomplicated, surviving major moments in history by suddenly deciding to make lipstick or lampshades. I am all for a powerhouse working woman, this character just didn’t resonate with me and the struggles of being a female boss in the early 20th century glossed over. 2.75/5
While I enjoyed the descriptions of period fashion, I could not connect with the characters, specifically the main character. Her life was a bit too uncomplicated, surviving major moments in history by suddenly deciding to make lipstick or lampshades. I am all for a powerhouse working woman, this character just didn’t resonate with me and the struggles of being a female boss in the early 20th century glossed over. 2.75/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this ARC copy in exchange for my review.
Plot: A tragic incident leaves Maisie McIntyre's mother unable to continue working as a servant. The mother's employer brings her a sewing machine so she will be able to have an income which changes Maisie's life. After her mother's death, Maisie finds a lot of money that her mother had hidden away. Maisie takes the money and a stolen bolt of cloth, jumps on a ship, and heads to America. There, she builds a fashion empire.
My Thoughts: I loved Maisie's character. She was strong, determined, ambitious, and unafraid to challenge gender stereotypes. She broke boundaries between races and classes. The story begins in the early 1900s and takes us through various incidents in history--the Shirtwaist Factory fire, the suffrage movement, and two world wars (my favorite way to learn about history). If you love fashion, you will love this story. There were lots of dress descriptions (especially at the beginning of a new chapter), but I wish there were some pictures of them included to give a visual. The only thing that really annoyed me was her relationship with Joseph. Joseph was black, and an interracial relationship was frowned upon at that time. Although she had feelings for him, Joseph knew their relationship would never work. However, she spent a lifetime pining over someone that she was close to for 5 minutes and never even kissed. It just didn't make sense to me. Overall, it was a really good story.
Plot: A tragic incident leaves Maisie McIntyre's mother unable to continue working as a servant. The mother's employer brings her a sewing machine so she will be able to have an income which changes Maisie's life. After her mother's death, Maisie finds a lot of money that her mother had hidden away. Maisie takes the money and a stolen bolt of cloth, jumps on a ship, and heads to America. There, she builds a fashion empire.
My Thoughts: I loved Maisie's character. She was strong, determined, ambitious, and unafraid to challenge gender stereotypes. She broke boundaries between races and classes. The story begins in the early 1900s and takes us through various incidents in history--the Shirtwaist Factory fire, the suffrage movement, and two world wars (my favorite way to learn about history). If you love fashion, you will love this story. There were lots of dress descriptions (especially at the beginning of a new chapter), but I wish there were some pictures of them included to give a visual. The only thing that really annoyed me was her relationship with Joseph. Joseph was black, and an interracial relationship was frowned upon at that time. Although she had feelings for him, Joseph knew their relationship would never work. However, she spent a lifetime pining over someone that she was close to for 5 minutes and never even kissed. It just didn't make sense to me. Overall, it was a really good story.
April 15, 2025
This is meant to be a sweeping epic saga that spans decades in the life of one woman. And it is, its just rather fast paced (yet slow?) and seemed to only scratch the surface in some places where it should definitely have cut deeper.
Maisie McIntyre is a young Scottish girl who runs away to New York and builds a fashion empire gathering friends and family into her orbit along the way. But while these relationships shape her, we never fully see the depth of these connections. We’re told about them in the way someone would relay the words to you, but we never feel them fully in my opinion.
Her relationship with her mother is described as lacking physical affection and color yet half way through the book she looks back on her mother as the women who ‘stitched her together’. How? There was no strong bond other than her mother teaching her to sew. There was no motherly advice, no demonstrations of motherly love, no defining moments. Many of the characters in the book are like this. Surface only never deeper and their closeness or importance only conveyed through the passing of time.
So many characters come and go and while they may not have more than a few pages scattered through the chapters each one does play a pivotal role. Some have resolution and an explanation of what becomes of them while others fade into the ether or are left unfulfilled. Oti and Aiden are essentially mainstays, but they seem to only exist in her orbit, have no life that isn’t connected to her. They never marry, they never find happiness that isn’t tied to hers somehow. I loved Oti’s character, and I would have loved for her to find a companion to share her life with but that wasn’t meant to be. At one point she even tells Maisie she prefers the ambitious career driven Maisie to the one who would fight bigotry and settle down with Joseph. That rubbed me the wrong way and paved the way for Oti to always put Maisie’s happiness before her own. I have no problem with people without color writing characters that are people of color, but its nuanced and sometimes the intention is loss in a slightly offensive manner while the author is trying to convey something else entirely. With Oti she was independent but always waiting on Maisie hand and foot. The dynamic felt master and servant despite the friendship they shared. Aidan was clever and witty and at times reduced to a sidekick. He felt a bit like Auntie Mame, sweeping in with presents and glamour and fun ideas and then disappearing again.
Her relationship with Joseph was a complicated one. It felt rushed and slow at the same time. I knew it was her great love because she told me and because the passage of time kept them in each other’s path, but I struggled to feel it. Giving each other up was vital to the story but it seemed as though the actual romance happened so fast it didn’t quite take root and then suddenly it was over and there was decades of longing and loss.
The thing with this book is I felt like it was a person telling me the story, not necessarily a book showing it me, if that makes sense at all. It was compelling nonetheless and I was very interested in the story. I feel like this would make an amazing movie to show the emotions that couldn’t be conveyed in the book.
I also loved and hated the chapter break dress descriptions. It was a nice addition to the story, however since the average person has no idea what turn of the century women’s wear looks like off the top of their head it was awkward and impossible to visualize. I have no idea what the stitching and hem would have looked like because I had no idea about anything she mentioned. It would have been nice if the finished book had illustrations for each described.
I will say this book is living rent free in my head right now. I loved that Maisie was essentially unlikeable to a degree. Her flaws made her real. The locations were exciting, and the journey was riveting. I absolutely had issues with some things, but this book kept me engaged. It made me care about the outcome. It introduced me to people that history may have forgotten. It delivered on its promise to show me a rebel.
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Maisie McIntyre is a young Scottish girl who runs away to New York and builds a fashion empire gathering friends and family into her orbit along the way. But while these relationships shape her, we never fully see the depth of these connections. We’re told about them in the way someone would relay the words to you, but we never feel them fully in my opinion.
Her relationship with her mother is described as lacking physical affection and color yet half way through the book she looks back on her mother as the women who ‘stitched her together’. How? There was no strong bond other than her mother teaching her to sew. There was no motherly advice, no demonstrations of motherly love, no defining moments. Many of the characters in the book are like this. Surface only never deeper and their closeness or importance only conveyed through the passing of time.
So many characters come and go and while they may not have more than a few pages scattered through the chapters each one does play a pivotal role. Some have resolution and an explanation of what becomes of them while others fade into the ether or are left unfulfilled. Oti and Aiden are essentially mainstays, but they seem to only exist in her orbit, have no life that isn’t connected to her. They never marry, they never find happiness that isn’t tied to hers somehow. I loved Oti’s character, and I would have loved for her to find a companion to share her life with but that wasn’t meant to be. At one point she even tells Maisie she prefers the ambitious career driven Maisie to the one who would fight bigotry and settle down with Joseph. That rubbed me the wrong way and paved the way for Oti to always put Maisie’s happiness before her own. I have no problem with people without color writing characters that are people of color, but its nuanced and sometimes the intention is loss in a slightly offensive manner while the author is trying to convey something else entirely. With Oti she was independent but always waiting on Maisie hand and foot. The dynamic felt master and servant despite the friendship they shared. Aidan was clever and witty and at times reduced to a sidekick. He felt a bit like Auntie Mame, sweeping in with presents and glamour and fun ideas and then disappearing again.
Her relationship with Joseph was a complicated one. It felt rushed and slow at the same time. I knew it was her great love because she told me and because the passage of time kept them in each other’s path, but I struggled to feel it. Giving each other up was vital to the story but it seemed as though the actual romance happened so fast it didn’t quite take root and then suddenly it was over and there was decades of longing and loss.
The thing with this book is I felt like it was a person telling me the story, not necessarily a book showing it me, if that makes sense at all. It was compelling nonetheless and I was very interested in the story. I feel like this would make an amazing movie to show the emotions that couldn’t be conveyed in the book.
I also loved and hated the chapter break dress descriptions. It was a nice addition to the story, however since the average person has no idea what turn of the century women’s wear looks like off the top of their head it was awkward and impossible to visualize. I have no idea what the stitching and hem would have looked like because I had no idea about anything she mentioned. It would have been nice if the finished book had illustrations for each described.
I will say this book is living rent free in my head right now. I loved that Maisie was essentially unlikeable to a degree. Her flaws made her real. The locations were exciting, and the journey was riveting. I absolutely had issues with some things, but this book kept me engaged. It made me care about the outcome. It introduced me to people that history may have forgotten. It delivered on its promise to show me a rebel.
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
April 28, 2025
Annabelle Marx delivers in this beautifully written historical fiction novel that integrates history and fashion in a thought provoking and entertaining read. Beginning in Scotland in 1902, Maisie McIntyre is the daughter of a poor widow who struggles to provide for her 2 daughters. When her mother is injured by the son of her employer, Maisie and her sister Netta are forced to become the providers for their family and work in laundry service for the wealthy of Edinburgh. Maisie's mother uses her injury and subsequent disability to becomes a well respected seamstress, often clothing the finest women in town and teaches Maisie her skills . In 1910, when her mother dies, life becomes more complicated as Netta becomes the mother to multiple children and Maisie is working even harder to provide for their growing family, all while continuing to sew and design. One day, as Maisie is dreaming up designs and imagining a better life for herself, she finds a hidden stash of money in their tenement. She takes the cash and goes to a shop, intending on splurging on lush fabrics and embellishments to create the frock of her dreams. While being overwhelmed with such extravagances, Maises steals a beautiful swatch of fabric and decides to take the rest of her found money and take a boat to New York, where she will start a new lie for herself.
With a first class passage booked, Maisie disguises herself as a widow and embarks on her first class voyage across the ocean, While on ship, she befriends a wealthy newlywed, Mrs. Rex Marshall, someone who becomes valuable to her once she reaches New York. Maisie finds herself a job working in garment factory, where she works many hours with little pay. There she befriends Rosa, an Italian immigrant and talented embroiderer. Maisie also finds herself introduced man named Aiden, who helps her get her own little shop started while she works in the factory. Maisie soon reaches out to Mrs. Marshall and sells her on commissioning a dress to update her work. With wild success, Maisie's fashion side hustle begins to bloom and she decides to embark on her own fashion house, Maison McIntyre with Rosa being her right hand woman. The two can finally quite the factory and live a better life. Only their dream is crushed when there is a fire in the factory, and Rosa does not survive.
Overcome with guilt, Masie does not know how she will go on without her best friend. She tries her best to stay connected to Rosa's family, but the relationship is strained. She is saved one day with the introduction to a striking young man, Joseph, who quickly becomes her friend and architectural tour guide of New York City, Their friendship turns to romance , and also must be kept a secret, as Joseph is black, Joseph introduces Maisie to his sister, Oti, who is a talented seamstress. Maisie hires Oti, and other women of color to work behind the scenes as Maison McIntyre continues to expand and becomes wildly successful.
As Maison McIntyre continues to grow, Maisie expands her growing empire in both physical space and manpower, hiring Rosa's adult daughter Nina. She is soon dressing the finest ladies who are travelling far and wide to wear her attire. Maisie also begins a love affair with a married congressman, named Tori, spanning several years and resulting in pregnancy. Maisie also longs to reconnect with her older sister Netta, who she hasn't seen in over 20 years. Maisie reaches out and convinces Netta to come to New York and help her care for her child. Her lover turns out to be working with the mob and is assassinated, prompting her to take another career opportunity in Los Angeles, as a film costume designer, bringing Netta and her daughter with her.
After many years of success LA, WWII falls upon the world, forcing Maisie to shift direction of her career and Maison McIntyre once again, returning to Scotland where she revamps her business to fit the needs of the new world adapting to war. Her fashions become more practical, fitting the needs of those affected by the war, while keeping her business afloat and her employees paid. When the war ends, Maisie makes one final move home to New York, where she is dealt with a progressive illness that ultimately forces her to hand over the business to her daughter, Jessica.
This book takes the reader on a journey through time, spanning many decades and dealing with progressive issues of the times. Beautifully written and engaging until the very end,
With a first class passage booked, Maisie disguises herself as a widow and embarks on her first class voyage across the ocean, While on ship, she befriends a wealthy newlywed, Mrs. Rex Marshall, someone who becomes valuable to her once she reaches New York. Maisie finds herself a job working in garment factory, where she works many hours with little pay. There she befriends Rosa, an Italian immigrant and talented embroiderer. Maisie also finds herself introduced man named Aiden, who helps her get her own little shop started while she works in the factory. Maisie soon reaches out to Mrs. Marshall and sells her on commissioning a dress to update her work. With wild success, Maisie's fashion side hustle begins to bloom and she decides to embark on her own fashion house, Maison McIntyre with Rosa being her right hand woman. The two can finally quite the factory and live a better life. Only their dream is crushed when there is a fire in the factory, and Rosa does not survive.
Overcome with guilt, Masie does not know how she will go on without her best friend. She tries her best to stay connected to Rosa's family, but the relationship is strained. She is saved one day with the introduction to a striking young man, Joseph, who quickly becomes her friend and architectural tour guide of New York City, Their friendship turns to romance , and also must be kept a secret, as Joseph is black, Joseph introduces Maisie to his sister, Oti, who is a talented seamstress. Maisie hires Oti, and other women of color to work behind the scenes as Maison McIntyre continues to expand and becomes wildly successful.
As Maison McIntyre continues to grow, Maisie expands her growing empire in both physical space and manpower, hiring Rosa's adult daughter Nina. She is soon dressing the finest ladies who are travelling far and wide to wear her attire. Maisie also begins a love affair with a married congressman, named Tori, spanning several years and resulting in pregnancy. Maisie also longs to reconnect with her older sister Netta, who she hasn't seen in over 20 years. Maisie reaches out and convinces Netta to come to New York and help her care for her child. Her lover turns out to be working with the mob and is assassinated, prompting her to take another career opportunity in Los Angeles, as a film costume designer, bringing Netta and her daughter with her.
After many years of success LA, WWII falls upon the world, forcing Maisie to shift direction of her career and Maison McIntyre once again, returning to Scotland where she revamps her business to fit the needs of the new world adapting to war. Her fashions become more practical, fitting the needs of those affected by the war, while keeping her business afloat and her employees paid. When the war ends, Maisie makes one final move home to New York, where she is dealt with a progressive illness that ultimately forces her to hand over the business to her daughter, Jessica.
This book takes the reader on a journey through time, spanning many decades and dealing with progressive issues of the times. Beautifully written and engaging until the very end,
June 16, 2025
The fashion industry was and still is cut throat. Only strong women with flair, passion and incredible work ethic survive. "The Rebel of Seventh Avenue" by Annabelle Marx introduces us to Maisie McIntyre. Living in the tenaments of 1910 Edinburgh, she works hard in a laundry to help put food on the family table and by night slowly develops her dressmaking skills, under the tutelage of her mother who was injured in a workplace incident that was swept under the carpet by her being "paid off" with a sewing machine and a new way of making a crust. Tragically her mother dies well before her time, as a hard poor life catches up with her.
Maisie is desperate to escape the grinding poverty that has defined her life so far, so makes a daring choice: she steals a bolt of peacock-blue silk, a stash of money and sails for New York City, under disguise as a mourning widow. She meets people on this voyage who will be pivotable in building her new life.
On arrival, she must start at the bottom of the New York ragtrade. She works in a factory which locks it's door when the work day is underway and physically pats down its staff as they leave at the end of the day! Maisie luckily avoids the devastating Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, but loses her beloved friends.
She is determined to build her own courtier empire, along the way supporting women of all colour and nationality.
This is an era of the emerging women’s rights movement and Maisie is a woman determined to fashion not just beautiful clothes, but her own place in a man’s world; fostering a workforce where self confidence can build and talent is able to be demonstrated and acknowledged. Needless to say customers will be lost along the way as this rebellious stance shocks many.
Maisie falls in love with Joseph Jackson, a talented Black architect with dreams as ambitious as her own. But in a world steeped in prejudice, she finds herself making an impossible choice.
This is a story of grit rather than glamour, as far as Maisie is concerned. She works incredibly hard, avoids the limelight and parties of the pre and post first world war. An enormous fortune is built; easily destroyed on the word of mouth of wealthy women who crave being the centre of attention or the wall street crash and war time downturns that demanded diversification and clever business acumen.
A riveting story. Not based on any one actual historical figure but incorporating people of the time like Coco Chanel. This is the best type of historical fiction, the blending of real events along with a compelling story. Each chapter introduces an outfit made by Maisie and proceeds to tell the story of the inspiration and manufacture of this garment.
Thank you to NetGalley, Annabelle Marx and Storm Publishing for providing me with the opportunity to read this novel. I was captivated from start to finish and will actively look out for Annabelle's books in the future.
Maisie is desperate to escape the grinding poverty that has defined her life so far, so makes a daring choice: she steals a bolt of peacock-blue silk, a stash of money and sails for New York City, under disguise as a mourning widow. She meets people on this voyage who will be pivotable in building her new life.
On arrival, she must start at the bottom of the New York ragtrade. She works in a factory which locks it's door when the work day is underway and physically pats down its staff as they leave at the end of the day! Maisie luckily avoids the devastating Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, but loses her beloved friends.
She is determined to build her own courtier empire, along the way supporting women of all colour and nationality.
This is an era of the emerging women’s rights movement and Maisie is a woman determined to fashion not just beautiful clothes, but her own place in a man’s world; fostering a workforce where self confidence can build and talent is able to be demonstrated and acknowledged. Needless to say customers will be lost along the way as this rebellious stance shocks many.
Maisie falls in love with Joseph Jackson, a talented Black architect with dreams as ambitious as her own. But in a world steeped in prejudice, she finds herself making an impossible choice.
This is a story of grit rather than glamour, as far as Maisie is concerned. She works incredibly hard, avoids the limelight and parties of the pre and post first world war. An enormous fortune is built; easily destroyed on the word of mouth of wealthy women who crave being the centre of attention or the wall street crash and war time downturns that demanded diversification and clever business acumen.
A riveting story. Not based on any one actual historical figure but incorporating people of the time like Coco Chanel. This is the best type of historical fiction, the blending of real events along with a compelling story. Each chapter introduces an outfit made by Maisie and proceeds to tell the story of the inspiration and manufacture of this garment.
Thank you to NetGalley, Annabelle Marx and Storm Publishing for providing me with the opportunity to read this novel. I was captivated from start to finish and will actively look out for Annabelle's books in the future.
June 15, 2025
|:: The Rebel of Seventh Avenue
By Annabelle Marx
Chapter title: Maw Page 28
Edinburgh 1902.
5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
{ My heart was now beating so fast I could hardly breathe. I got up, just to be able to do something, to force air into my lungs, and began pacing up and down the tiny room.
This money was for our family, to make our lives better.
Turn
Perhaps I could keep it all for myself.
Turn
Should I tell Netta?
Turn
But if I didn't, she'd never know. I could just leave and start my own life somewhere else.
Turn
But if Maw had left it for us, she'd know what is done. Somehow she'd know. I came to a halt.
What should I do?
Standing in the middle of the room I heard footsteps on the stairs, voices: Netta and Duncan returning with the girls. }
We follow a beautiful, unpredictable, and very talented Masie McIntyre from a young age when she would sit and sew for her mother right up to the life-changing age of 19.
With the help of a boat destined for America and nothing but ideas and inspiration floating around in her head. She set out to make the life she has always dreamed of. She had a vision, a passion, and her visions were hers to grasp and make come true, once she put dreary Scotland behind her, she could breathe finally.. In her bones, she knew she could not be a wife, married to a man, cleaning and taking care of him, a hoard of children running around never giving her a moment's peace.
No, her life was to be something else. She wasn't sure exactly what it would be yet but she had ideas.
And it involved Colour. Shape. Tailoring. Sketching, and taking the world by storm.
And that is exactly what she did. One goal after another.
This book was so inspiring and influential. To have a book that praised women, showing the beautiful harmony we could have if we all worked together and even though it touched briefly on some uncomfortable subjects, it made the story so raw and engaging. I find myself looking at the way people dress now.
It's unnerving because I have never been an arty person but after reading what Masie achieved in her lifetime, it made me look at mine. I know life is precious, you should live every day to the max. Just as wonderful as it was to see Maisie thriving, it put into perspective what could happen during pregnancy, postnatal depression, and other circumstances that unfortunately we sometimes find ourselves in.
I thought this story was amazing. It did steal a little bit of my heart and I'm so grateful to you for allowing me to read this.
It's one of those books you will never, ever forget.
A huge thank you to Annabelle Marx, Storm Publishing, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and relay my honest feedback. ::|
By Annabelle Marx
Chapter title: Maw Page 28
Edinburgh 1902.
5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
{ My heart was now beating so fast I could hardly breathe. I got up, just to be able to do something, to force air into my lungs, and began pacing up and down the tiny room.
This money was for our family, to make our lives better.
Turn
Perhaps I could keep it all for myself.
Turn
Should I tell Netta?
Turn
But if I didn't, she'd never know. I could just leave and start my own life somewhere else.
Turn
But if Maw had left it for us, she'd know what is done. Somehow she'd know. I came to a halt.
What should I do?
Standing in the middle of the room I heard footsteps on the stairs, voices: Netta and Duncan returning with the girls. }
We follow a beautiful, unpredictable, and very talented Masie McIntyre from a young age when she would sit and sew for her mother right up to the life-changing age of 19.
With the help of a boat destined for America and nothing but ideas and inspiration floating around in her head. She set out to make the life she has always dreamed of. She had a vision, a passion, and her visions were hers to grasp and make come true, once she put dreary Scotland behind her, she could breathe finally.. In her bones, she knew she could not be a wife, married to a man, cleaning and taking care of him, a hoard of children running around never giving her a moment's peace.
No, her life was to be something else. She wasn't sure exactly what it would be yet but she had ideas.
And it involved Colour. Shape. Tailoring. Sketching, and taking the world by storm.
And that is exactly what she did. One goal after another.
This book was so inspiring and influential. To have a book that praised women, showing the beautiful harmony we could have if we all worked together and even though it touched briefly on some uncomfortable subjects, it made the story so raw and engaging. I find myself looking at the way people dress now.
It's unnerving because I have never been an arty person but after reading what Masie achieved in her lifetime, it made me look at mine. I know life is precious, you should live every day to the max. Just as wonderful as it was to see Maisie thriving, it put into perspective what could happen during pregnancy, postnatal depression, and other circumstances that unfortunately we sometimes find ourselves in.
I thought this story was amazing. It did steal a little bit of my heart and I'm so grateful to you for allowing me to read this.
It's one of those books you will never, ever forget.
A huge thank you to Annabelle Marx, Storm Publishing, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and relay my honest feedback. ::|
May 21, 2025
𝕋𝕙𝕖 ℝ𝕖𝕓𝕖𝕝 𝕠𝕗 𝕊𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕙 𝔸𝕧𝕖𝕟𝕦𝕖 🪡
"Nobody was going to own me, nobody was going to tell me how to live my life." Maisie mclntyre
TW: Racism, Violence, Homophobia, and SA.
Happy Release day and hello, my sweet, awful creatures! 🦇
I hadn't expected this ARC to be sent to me, as I got the email a week before the release date, but I quickly realized that the story and book are so well narrated that I ended up finishing it quite quickly.
Maisie McLntyre, a young Woman stuck in a life consisting of working in a textile factory with bad working conditions and taking care of her mother and sister, decides in a moment of courage that she wants to follow her dream and become a famous fashion designer in New York. This story follows all the hardships and happenings on her path to fame, including the lives of the people she meets along the way. The question is, will Maisie be able to achieve her dreams and become New York's most requested fashion designer, or collapse under the pressure of being a woman in a man's world and make her way back home?
This is a heartbreaking, rage-inducing story of a woman trying to survive through the misogyny, racism, and upcoming wars at the beginning of the 1900s as she climbs the stairs of fame and realizes that misogyny is not just caused by men, but also by women. Feminism at its finest!
I don’t know how to put the emotions I felt as I read this book into words, but I can tell you that I had moments where I had to put the book down and take a breather. I am too much of an empath and feel for someone intensely which is why I try to move past stories like this one. However, I do not regret reading this book, on the contrary, it became one of my favorite feminist stories.
Usually, I tend to build a connection to the FMC and relate to them slightly, and I do not deny that I had a few moments in which I sympathized with her. Though when she became the mistress of the Senator, all the sympathy I had for her disappeared... You guys know that I cannot stand women like that, as I don't see how any reason would make it okay for a woman to hurt another by doing that. Even if it was or is normalized for powerful men to have a mistress, I will not be justifying that. Ever.
In conclusion, I loved this Story for the women who held onto each other since the first days of working in a small room until they made it to a whole couture house together, hand by hand.
Until next time!
Mira 💗
"Nobody was going to own me, nobody was going to tell me how to live my life." Maisie mclntyre
TW: Racism, Violence, Homophobia, and SA.
Happy Release day and hello, my sweet, awful creatures! 🦇
I hadn't expected this ARC to be sent to me, as I got the email a week before the release date, but I quickly realized that the story and book are so well narrated that I ended up finishing it quite quickly.
Maisie McLntyre, a young Woman stuck in a life consisting of working in a textile factory with bad working conditions and taking care of her mother and sister, decides in a moment of courage that she wants to follow her dream and become a famous fashion designer in New York. This story follows all the hardships and happenings on her path to fame, including the lives of the people she meets along the way. The question is, will Maisie be able to achieve her dreams and become New York's most requested fashion designer, or collapse under the pressure of being a woman in a man's world and make her way back home?
This is a heartbreaking, rage-inducing story of a woman trying to survive through the misogyny, racism, and upcoming wars at the beginning of the 1900s as she climbs the stairs of fame and realizes that misogyny is not just caused by men, but also by women. Feminism at its finest!
I don’t know how to put the emotions I felt as I read this book into words, but I can tell you that I had moments where I had to put the book down and take a breather. I am too much of an empath and feel for someone intensely which is why I try to move past stories like this one. However, I do not regret reading this book, on the contrary, it became one of my favorite feminist stories.
Usually, I tend to build a connection to the FMC and relate to them slightly, and I do not deny that I had a few moments in which I sympathized with her. Though when she became the mistress of the Senator, all the sympathy I had for her disappeared... You guys know that I cannot stand women like that, as I don't see how any reason would make it okay for a woman to hurt another by doing that. Even if it was or is normalized for powerful men to have a mistress, I will not be justifying that. Ever.
In conclusion, I loved this Story for the women who held onto each other since the first days of working in a small room until they made it to a whole couture house together, hand by hand.
Until next time!
Mira 💗
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this eCopy to review
I went into The Rebel of Seventh Avenue with high hopes. A historical novel set in the early 20th century, spanning from Edinburgh to New York, and centred around fashion, ambition, and forbidden love? It sounded like a dream. And in some ways, it delivered—but in others, it left me wanting more.
The story follows Maisie McIntyre, a young Scottish seamstress who, after the death of her mother, steals a bolt of peacock-blue silk and some money, and sets sail for New York City. There, she builds a couture empire from the ground up, designing bold, modern fashions for Manhattan’s elite. Along the way, she falls in love with Joseph Jackson, a talented Black architect, and faces the harsh realities of racism, sexism, and societal expectations.
While the premise is compelling and the historical backdrop—especially the depiction of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire and the women’s rights movement—is vividly drawn, I found the narrative repetitive at times. There were long stretches focused on fabric choices and design details that, while authentic, didn’t always move the story forward. I often felt like I was being told the same things about Maisie’s struggles and triumphs without gaining new insight.
Most importantly, I struggled to connect emotionally with Maisie. Her journey is undeniably difficult and her ambition admirable, but something about her inner world felt distant. I wanted to feel her heartbreak, her passion, her fire—but instead, I often felt like a spectator rather than a participant in her story.
That said, the book does shine in its exploration of the social issues of the time, particularly the challenges faced by interracial and queer couples. These moments were some of the most powerful and thought-provoking in the novel.
In the end, The Rebel of Seventh Avenue is a beautifully written, well-researched novel that just didn’t quite hit the emotional notes I was hoping for. It’s worth a read for fans of historical fiction and fashion, but be prepared for a slower, more reflective pace.
I went into The Rebel of Seventh Avenue with high hopes. A historical novel set in the early 20th century, spanning from Edinburgh to New York, and centred around fashion, ambition, and forbidden love? It sounded like a dream. And in some ways, it delivered—but in others, it left me wanting more.
The story follows Maisie McIntyre, a young Scottish seamstress who, after the death of her mother, steals a bolt of peacock-blue silk and some money, and sets sail for New York City. There, she builds a couture empire from the ground up, designing bold, modern fashions for Manhattan’s elite. Along the way, she falls in love with Joseph Jackson, a talented Black architect, and faces the harsh realities of racism, sexism, and societal expectations.
While the premise is compelling and the historical backdrop—especially the depiction of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire and the women’s rights movement—is vividly drawn, I found the narrative repetitive at times. There were long stretches focused on fabric choices and design details that, while authentic, didn’t always move the story forward. I often felt like I was being told the same things about Maisie’s struggles and triumphs without gaining new insight.
Most importantly, I struggled to connect emotionally with Maisie. Her journey is undeniably difficult and her ambition admirable, but something about her inner world felt distant. I wanted to feel her heartbreak, her passion, her fire—but instead, I often felt like a spectator rather than a participant in her story.
That said, the book does shine in its exploration of the social issues of the time, particularly the challenges faced by interracial and queer couples. These moments were some of the most powerful and thought-provoking in the novel.
In the end, The Rebel of Seventh Avenue is a beautifully written, well-researched novel that just didn’t quite hit the emotional notes I was hoping for. It’s worth a read for fans of historical fiction and fashion, but be prepared for a slower, more reflective pace.
May 1, 2025
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher of The Rebel of Seventh Avenue, Storm Publishing, for the opportunity to read an advance copy of the book, This book is a solid 3 stars - but it could have been 5 stars. The book reminded me of a wonderful series I read years ago called The Tea Rose, by Jennifer Donnelly - and like that series, I loved the characters the Annabelle Marx developed. I enjoyed the story. I didn't want to put the book down and was disappointed when I reached the last page. Why 3 stars for The Rebel of Seventh Avenue then? The author's use of foreshadowing was just cringeworthy. So, while the characters were well thought out and the story was engaging, there were points in time where something would be said or a detail included, that led me, the reader, to groan and guess what would happen next. I don't want to give any spoiler alerts, but suffice to say, if you know anything about American history at the turn of the 20th century and even a little bit about labor issues, race relations, the immigrant experience, WWI, Prohibition or the Great Depression - you will not be surprised at many of the turns the story takes - you will instead expect things to happen in a way that is entirely too coincidental IMO. Also, upon reflection, I wished for a different title for this book. I did not see the main character as a rebel. An innovator? Yes. Courageous? In many ways. Flawed? In a very human way. But rebel? Not so much. And unless you are very familiar with New York, you may not understand the reference to Seventh Avenue - and it's tie to where the garment district is located. I guessed at the reference but had to Google it to confirm my suspicions. I wished I could have given the author this feedback before posting such a review because I enjoyed many aspects of this book and think others would enjoy it also - but I can't in good conscience give it any more than 3 stars or put it on my list of highly recommended books. That said, 3 stars isn't bad - it's solid - and as I mentioned - I enjoyed reading it and you probably will too.
May 13, 2025
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Annabelle Marx’s The Rebel of Seventh Avenue captures the transformative power of fashion as both a statement of personal freedom and a vehicle for social change. Set in the early 20th century, the novel follows Maisie McIntyre, a talented seamstress whose journey intertwines with the evolving roles of women in society.
Fashion in the novel serves as more than adornment—it is armor, rebellion, and a coded language of defiance. The suffragettes used structured, practical clothing to assert authority and determination, while the liberating flapper style reflected a generation breaking free from societal restraints. Even mourning attire, typically associated with grief, is portrayed as a tool of subterfuge, allowing women to maneuver unnoticed when secrecy is paramount.
Maisie’s story unfolds through her relationships—with fellow seamstresses, clients seeking individuality in their clothing, and the chosen family she forms along the way. These connections underscore the strength found in female solidarity, weaving together themes of friendship, tradition, and the pursuit of independence. Including a exploration of class and race as the characters strive to build lives beyond the expectations imposed upon them.
Through richly detailed settings, Marx immerses readers in a world where fashion is stitched into history. Moments like the struggles of early garment workers and the rise of women’s rights are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, making the book both an engaging read and a thoughtful reflection on social evolution.
For those drawn to historical fiction that merges personal ambition with broader cultural shifts, The Rebel of Seventh Avenue offers a vibrant and immersive journey. It is a story of resilience, creativity, and the quiet yet powerful ways in which clothing shapes identity and destiny.
Annabelle Marx’s The Rebel of Seventh Avenue captures the transformative power of fashion as both a statement of personal freedom and a vehicle for social change. Set in the early 20th century, the novel follows Maisie McIntyre, a talented seamstress whose journey intertwines with the evolving roles of women in society.
Fashion in the novel serves as more than adornment—it is armor, rebellion, and a coded language of defiance. The suffragettes used structured, practical clothing to assert authority and determination, while the liberating flapper style reflected a generation breaking free from societal restraints. Even mourning attire, typically associated with grief, is portrayed as a tool of subterfuge, allowing women to maneuver unnoticed when secrecy is paramount.
Maisie’s story unfolds through her relationships—with fellow seamstresses, clients seeking individuality in their clothing, and the chosen family she forms along the way. These connections underscore the strength found in female solidarity, weaving together themes of friendship, tradition, and the pursuit of independence. Including a exploration of class and race as the characters strive to build lives beyond the expectations imposed upon them.
Through richly detailed settings, Marx immerses readers in a world where fashion is stitched into history. Moments like the struggles of early garment workers and the rise of women’s rights are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, making the book both an engaging read and a thoughtful reflection on social evolution.
For those drawn to historical fiction that merges personal ambition with broader cultural shifts, The Rebel of Seventh Avenue offers a vibrant and immersive journey. It is a story of resilience, creativity, and the quiet yet powerful ways in which clothing shapes identity and destiny.
April 15, 2025
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for allowing me to access a ARC of this book.
Edinburgh 1910, Maisie McIntyre is a girl with dreams. Working in a hotel basement washing laundry and living in poverty with her mother and older sister Netta. After their mothers death, Maisie comes across an evelope of money and seeing it as a chance to live out her dreams heads for New York, leaving Netta and her young family behind. Maisie steals some beautiful peacock blue silk before she goes hoping it will help her pick up work as a seamstress making clothing for the upper class. We follow Maisie over the course or her life as she fights to make a name for herself in a society where only a man can be taken seriously in the world of business. However, Maisie lives out her dream of having her own couture empire, showcasing her talent for design and love of colour. She finds love with Joseph, but as a black man, the prejudice they face threatens to tear her buisness down.
I was really drawn to the title and description of this book. The timing of the 1920s through to the late 1950's, are some of my favourite eras.
The hurdles Maisie has to jump through had me routing for her success. As a woman with a fierce passion and dedication to her work, along with a strong love for those around her, Maisie is a character to be admired.
I loved the vibe of this book, the glitz and glamour of the fashion industry, the high society lifestyle mixed with the hardworking lower classes who are aiming for more.
The author manages to weave in true life events such as the suffragette movement and the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, a devestating loss of lives due to poor and unsafe working conditions. The fire event in particular left me feeling such shock and emotion, with the final nod to it at the end of the story a beautiful touch.
Edinburgh 1910, Maisie McIntyre is a girl with dreams. Working in a hotel basement washing laundry and living in poverty with her mother and older sister Netta. After their mothers death, Maisie comes across an evelope of money and seeing it as a chance to live out her dreams heads for New York, leaving Netta and her young family behind. Maisie steals some beautiful peacock blue silk before she goes hoping it will help her pick up work as a seamstress making clothing for the upper class. We follow Maisie over the course or her life as she fights to make a name for herself in a society where only a man can be taken seriously in the world of business. However, Maisie lives out her dream of having her own couture empire, showcasing her talent for design and love of colour. She finds love with Joseph, but as a black man, the prejudice they face threatens to tear her buisness down.
I was really drawn to the title and description of this book. The timing of the 1920s through to the late 1950's, are some of my favourite eras.
The hurdles Maisie has to jump through had me routing for her success. As a woman with a fierce passion and dedication to her work, along with a strong love for those around her, Maisie is a character to be admired.
I loved the vibe of this book, the glitz and glamour of the fashion industry, the high society lifestyle mixed with the hardworking lower classes who are aiming for more.
The author manages to weave in true life events such as the suffragette movement and the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, a devestating loss of lives due to poor and unsafe working conditions. The fire event in particular left me feeling such shock and emotion, with the final nod to it at the end of the story a beautiful touch.
May 22, 2025
The Rebel of Seventh Avenue is an ambitious, sweeping historical fiction that follows Maisie McIntyre, a bold and determined seamstress from Edinburgh, as she builds a new life in early 20th-century New York. From a traumatic start in Scotland to rising through the fashion world in Manhattan, Maisie’s journey is filled with heartbreak, reinvention, and resilience.
I was drawn in by the setting and the rich historical detail—especially the backdrop of immigration, the women’s movement, and the early days of American fashion. Maisie is a compelling character who never stops pushing forward, no matter what life throws her way. Her relationships, particularly with Rosa and Joseph, add depth and emotion to the story.
That said, a few things didn’t quite work for me. The use of heavy Scottish dialect ("tae" for "to," "nae" for "no") was difficult to read at times and pulled me out of the narrative. There were also some strange timeline inconsistencies early on, and the story becomes a bit chaotic with so many plot twists, time jumps, and dramatic turns packed into one book.
Over the course of the book, Maisie experiences tragedy, success, love, loss, and more than a few shocking twists— The pacing can feel rushed in the second half as years—and entire eras—fly by.
Despite that, I admired the ambition and emotional depth of this story. If you enjoy generational sagas, fierce female leads, and historical fiction with lots of drama, this one delivers. It’s not perfect, but it kept me turning the pages until the very end.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I was drawn in by the setting and the rich historical detail—especially the backdrop of immigration, the women’s movement, and the early days of American fashion. Maisie is a compelling character who never stops pushing forward, no matter what life throws her way. Her relationships, particularly with Rosa and Joseph, add depth and emotion to the story.
That said, a few things didn’t quite work for me. The use of heavy Scottish dialect ("tae" for "to," "nae" for "no") was difficult to read at times and pulled me out of the narrative. There were also some strange timeline inconsistencies early on, and the story becomes a bit chaotic with so many plot twists, time jumps, and dramatic turns packed into one book.
Over the course of the book, Maisie experiences tragedy, success, love, loss, and more than a few shocking twists— The pacing can feel rushed in the second half as years—and entire eras—fly by.
Despite that, I admired the ambition and emotional depth of this story. If you enjoy generational sagas, fierce female leads, and historical fiction with lots of drama, this one delivers. It’s not perfect, but it kept me turning the pages until the very end.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 29, 2025
Annabelle Marx’s The Rebel of Seventh Avenue is a sweeping, evocative work of historical fiction that captures the grit, glamour, and heartbreak of a woman determined to redefine both fashion and her own destiny.
Maisie McIntyre begins life in 1910s Edinburgh, where poverty and hardship weigh heavily on her family. With little more than her mother’s sewing machine, her own raw talent, and a stolen bolt of silk, she takes a daring leap—sailing for New York to chase her dream of becoming a couturier. What unfolds is a vivid portrait of a woman who refuses to be bound by her circumstances, carving out a career in an industry as dazzling as it is ruthless.
From sweatshops with locked doors to the rise of her own couture house on Seventh Avenue, Maisie’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. She becomes not just a dressmaker to Manhattan’s elite, but a champion for women of every background, insisting on a place for creativity, dignity, and equality in a world resistant to change. Yet her ambition comes at a personal cost—especially when she falls in love with Joseph Jackson, a brilliant Black architect whose own dreams clash against the era’s harsh prejudices.
Marx brings the early 20th-century fashion world to life with exquisite detail—the textures of fabric, the artistry of design, and the relentless pressure of keeping up with both society’s demands and personal aspirations. But beyond the gowns and glamour, this is a novel about sacrifice, love, and the fight for a better future.
Immersive, empowering, and deeply moving, The Rebel of Seventh Avenue will captivate fans of Fiona Davis, Chanel Cleeton, and Jennifer Chiaverini. Maisie McIntyre is a heroine readers won’t soon forget.
Maisie McIntyre begins life in 1910s Edinburgh, where poverty and hardship weigh heavily on her family. With little more than her mother’s sewing machine, her own raw talent, and a stolen bolt of silk, she takes a daring leap—sailing for New York to chase her dream of becoming a couturier. What unfolds is a vivid portrait of a woman who refuses to be bound by her circumstances, carving out a career in an industry as dazzling as it is ruthless.
From sweatshops with locked doors to the rise of her own couture house on Seventh Avenue, Maisie’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. She becomes not just a dressmaker to Manhattan’s elite, but a champion for women of every background, insisting on a place for creativity, dignity, and equality in a world resistant to change. Yet her ambition comes at a personal cost—especially when she falls in love with Joseph Jackson, a brilliant Black architect whose own dreams clash against the era’s harsh prejudices.
Marx brings the early 20th-century fashion world to life with exquisite detail—the textures of fabric, the artistry of design, and the relentless pressure of keeping up with both society’s demands and personal aspirations. But beyond the gowns and glamour, this is a novel about sacrifice, love, and the fight for a better future.
Immersive, empowering, and deeply moving, The Rebel of Seventh Avenue will captivate fans of Fiona Davis, Chanel Cleeton, and Jennifer Chiaverini. Maisie McIntyre is a heroine readers won’t soon forget.
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