The Sewing Room: A Novel

by Diane Winnick

Genres: Historical Fiction

516 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 15, 2026

Reviews

[Reader · Rating 1 out of 5]

I can’t understand all the positive reviews this book has received. I struggled to like any of the main characters. Their character and judgment were often questionable, they seemed far too quick to make poor decisions, and the two main female characters’ relationship was odd which made it difficult for me to connect with them. The interaction between the characters also felt unrealistic to me. One minute they were over-the-top best friends, all sweetness and gushing over each other, and the next they were suddenly irritated and at odds—only to swing right back to calling each other “my dearest sister.” The constant back-and-forth felt forced and silly. The main male character didn’t deserve the time of day and the rest of the books’ cast felt contrived and unrealistic.

I was also very distracted by the author’s repeated and unnecessary descriptions of women’s bodies. I found the level of detail excessive and completely unnecessary to the story.

Overall, this book just wasn’t for me. The characters’ choices were frustrating, and I found the writing choices distracting rather than adding anything meaningful to the story. I won’t be reading the rest of this series.

[ronald m heineman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! A real image turner. I was not expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did. Well written, meticulously researched, informative, and completely immersive with intriguing characters and an engaging storyline! Cannot wait for Book Two in the series.

[I Love Cake · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is truly a gem from a new author! The story draws you in from the very beginning. It is a story about a Amanda, a smart and talented young woman navigating life in Victorian England. The book is well researched and replete with details about the art of interior design, period couture fashion, and fine arts liberally sprinkled throughout the story. There is also a lot of interesting insight into the difficulties of independent women with career aspirations in the Victorian Era. Amanda’s story begins in an upscale London boarding house with a cast of very charming and well-developed characters where she comes into her own and finds great friendships and love. I cant wait until the next in the series!

[Kim · Rating 2 out of 5]

Easy to read but just basic stereotypical characters. Some interesting Victorian details about clothing and interior design. Quite glaring when one character said she needed to look out for ‘red flags’ during her romances. Nice period detail but too obviously written for modern sentiment.

[Angelina M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing! It was hard to put down. Highly recommend it! Looking forward to reading Cornish Sunset (Book two) of the trilogy.

[Ken Masters · Rating 5 out of 5]

A compelling and beautifully written novel. The author’s meticulous research and period-accurate details bring a cast of rich, well-rounded characters vividly to life. A must-read

[Michael Makris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book. You will not want to put it down. The book is mesmerizing and makes you feel like you are part of the story back in the Victorian era. If you're looking for a gripping, fast-paced page-turner, this novel is for you. Can't wait for the sequel!