The Pattern Artist

The Pattern Artist #1

by Nancy Moser

English housemaid Annie Wood arrives in New York in 1911. On her own for the first time working as a Macy’s sewing department clerk, Annie catches the eye of a salesman at the Butterick Pattern Company. Through determination, hard work, and God’s leading, Annie discovers a hidden gift: she is a talented fashion designer—an artist of the highest degree. As she runs from ghosts of the past and focuses on the future, Annie enters a creative world that takes her to the fashion houses of Paris and into a life of adventure, purpose, and love.
 

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Romance, Historical, Christian, Sewing

305 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2016

About the author

Nancy Moser is the author of over forty books. Her award-winning stories will inspire you to discover your unique God-given purpose. Her genres include both contemporary and historical stories, inspirational humor, and children's books.

Her newest release, "An Undiscovered Life" is about an elderly woman who wants her family to know about her "before" life—her life before them. It's inspired by Nancy's mother who died in 2020 at age 99. It's a poignant, inspiring family story.

Another newer release is "Eyes of Our Heart" which showcases a group of ordinary people who are called to discover where God is working in their lives--and join Him.

Another recent release is "The Shop Keepers", book #3 of the Pattern Artist series about a group of women designing fashion and opening their own store in 1911-19 New York City. The first book in the series, "The Pattern Artist", was a finalist for a Romantic Times award.

Other titles include the time-travel historicals, "Where Time Will Take Me", "Where Life Will Lead Me", and the Downton Abbey-inspired Manor House Series beginning with "Love of the Summerfields."

Her historical bio-novels allow real women-of-history to share their life stories: "Just Jane" (Jane Austen), "Mozart's Sister" (Nannerl Mozart),"Washington's Lady" (Martha Washington) and "How Do I Love Thee?" (Elizabeth Barrett Browning.)

"An Unlikely Suitor" was named to Booklist's Top 100 Romance Novels of the last decade. Nancy's time-travel novel, "Time Lottery", won a Christy Award, and "Washington's Lady" was a finalist. Her contemporary books are known for their big-casts and intricate plotting.

Some contemporary titles are "The Invitation", "John 3: 16", "The Sister Circle", and "The Seat Beside Me."

Nancy and her husband live in the Midwest. She's earned a degree in architecture, traveled extensively in Europe, and has performed in numerous theaters, symphonies, and choirs. She is a fan of anything antique--humans included.

Website: nancymoser.com

Reviews

[Marlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is chock full of interesting historical details! I read an ARC (advance reader copy), and as a result, I could not follow my usual practice of reading reviews to vet books. Because I went into it knowing nothing, being surprised by the historical details really made the book for me. I won’t be listing them, because I always try not to list specific details from more than the first ten percent of a story in my book reviews. If you like novels filled with historical events and information or if you like the sewing and fashion industry, this book may very well be for you.

The Pattern Artist (2016, Shiloh Run Press/Barbour) by Nancy Moser is a standalone Christian romance set in 1911 in New York City. I selected this book from NetGalley because I really loved Nancy Moser’s An Unlikely Suitor .

4 stars

Annie Wood is an upper housemaid for a wealthy British family that has just arrived in New York City. She is along for the journey because “her ladyship would get seasick.” Annie has aspirations of being a lady’s maid someday. She loves the couture gowns of her mistress and her mistress’s daughter and truly enjoys altering and embellishing them to assist the two ladies’ maids.

There is a hero in the story, but he doesn't show up until a little bit later. So, no spoilers. However, I will say that I liked him very much. :-)

What I liked:

*Annie has so many adventures in this story, it’s rather amazing. It puts me in mind of Forrest Gump in this respect, though The Pattern Artist is much more believable. :-) (And for the record, a few scenes in Forrest Gump ruined it for me, so please don’t take my comparison as an endorsement of the movie!)

*Annie gains several faithful friends along the way. Ms. Moser really brings them to life.

*Annie really believes in herself. Her positive “can-do” attitude is wonderful.

*”Hadn’t America fought against the British to gain their freedom? Why copy what was when you had the chance to create something new and better?”

What I didn’t like:

*Annie occasionally mentions the negativity of her parents and how she doesn’t wish to be in that kind of environment. As far as I can remember, she never says anything good about them. As the heroine of a Christian novel, I would have liked to see Annie at some point exemplify love and respect for her parents, regardless of their differences. There were some other issues with Annie’s character, which I felt should have been explored for spiritual growth.

*In my opinion, Annie’s expertise in sewing is a little bit strange. She can do ABC, but not XYZ. I think it is plausible, but unlikely. She can make major alterations, but doesn’t know how to sew something from start to finish?

*There are multiple negative things that happen, but one of them I really wish hadn’t been put in the story. I think it could have been left out successfully.

***********************************************

I may read more Nancy Moser books in the future. I’ve really liked two out of three of her books so far. (The book I was dissatisfied with was Masquerade , which I read a few years ago.) My impression is that her books are more serious than those I prefer to read. So I’m leaving the door open for books she writes in the future. However, I can say unequivocally that she is a good author, and people who steer away from fluff probably would enjoy her works.

I recommend this book to fans of historical Christian romances set in America.

[Andrea AKA Catsos Person · Rating 3 out of 5]

Christian HR That is Replete with Blessings! (For the heathens: more luck than a televagelist or mega church pastor!)

I’m not the target audience for this book, meaning I don’t identify as a practicing christian. But I saw this book somewhere, and the premise grabbed me, and I am interested in gilded-age and pre WWI NYC. I do have a small “Christian Fiction” shelf, so I’m open to reading it.

While I was reading, I peeked at the author’s Goodreads bio. As it turns out, Nancy Moser has been sewing all of her life and never wore a store-bought outfit until college—she knows her way around a sewing machine. I really like when an author is able to incorporate deep knowledge of something either in personal life or interests or educational background! I love it that her idea came from something she really knows and it showed.

The premise of the book is first-rate, but her writing is average and competent—a lot of telling instead of showing.

The heroine goes through a series of lucky breaks that are as numerous as climbing rungs on a flight of stairs, and she ascends just as easily as climbing a set to boot. If this were a mainstream title, I’d say her abundant luck was mind numbing, in a Christian Fiction novel, she’s abundantly blessed as as a mega church pa$tor or televaneli$t. She rapidly goes from altering couture gowns by hand (never used a sewing machine or a sized pattern!) via assisting a pair of ladies’ maids of two wealthy women to being menaced, browbeaten and harassed by a self-made millionaire an his wife to finance her own clothing line!

Then the author flirts with feminism! Annie Wood, is reluctant to accept the offer of marriage from her beau, though a working man, comes from a well-off family. Annie wants to pursue her career! She has ambitions beyond the role of wife and mother! Her beau claps back by asking: Can’t she do both? Our heroine is still reluctant! Yo go girl! Cause once those babies start coming, what then? Well, we are into our third wave of feminism. Here’s what hasn’t changed: Married women who work still bear the brunt of housekeeping and child care. Since this is Christian fiction, I can’t see Annie and her beau engaging in any family planning/contraception once married.

Everything is resolved at the end: Our heroine finally accepts her beau’s proposal; after being worn down by the annoying millionaires, she accepts thier offer go finance her own clothing line and; she is taking her beau and friends with her into her new venture. I’m here for it. I’ll be reading the second book.

[Christin · Rating 1 out of 5]

Oh boy. This book was rough. I did finish it, but it was a chore. I even told my husband about the many "twists" and he groaned with me! Too much packed into one book, too many anticlimactic resolutions, plus, the writing was waaay more "tell" than show. It literally felt like a 300 page book report on someone's life. Plus, the theology was weak sauce. Very few mentions of the Bible, lots of relying upon feelings to determine God's word. Cheesy and misdirected. 1.5 stars.

[Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

This book started out promising, but about halfway through I felt it lost a lot of steam. I loved the characters of Annie and Maude, but the rest felt pretty one note. The historical research was fabulous, and I loved reading about how different life was in 1911, especially a servant's life, and the details of the early days of Department Stores. As a seamstress myself, I liked that Annie became a pattern artist and how it opened doors for her.

That being said, I felt her entire life since she ran away felt a bit too convenient. While there was a common thread that God was opening all the doors for her, it still seemed a bit too easy. Someone who had absolutely nothing who just so happened to find a place to stay, then just so happened to get a good job at Macy's in no time at all, and so on and so forth. While Annie was obviously a hard worker, the entire series of events felt a bit too fantastical, culminating in the random addition of the Titanic at the end. It might have worked better if the convenience and coincidence had been used sparingly, instead of at every single turn.

Sean was more interesting to me in his first appearance than the rest of the book, as he was kind of too-perfect. Iris became a non-character after Annie moved out of the bakery, and Grasston was pretty over-the-top evil.

I did enjoy reading the book, and I think the choice of time period was perfect and the details were well written.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moser has captured the American pioneering spirit in this enthralling account of a young immigrant woman rising from the ashes of unforeseen misfortune. I was spellbound from the very first page. Loved the historical details! I've sewn a Butterick pattern or two in my time so it was really interesting to see the inner workings of the company. As wells as an insider's view of Macy's Department Store. If only sales service was as exceptional today as it was back then!

Annie is a young woman with a lot of potential who pushes ahead with courage and faith in order to follow her dream. There is a certain naivety in the way she views the world at the beginning of the story but struggling through obstacles and hardships take their toll. But Annie is a survivor and she has the love and support of new friendships to help her carry on. Though she drags her heels when it comes to a certain potential suitor!

There are plenty of stunning plot twists -- some so unexpected that I had to stop reading and get my bearings. The Pattern Artist is the kind of story that entertains and inspires...and leaves you wanting more.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

One thing I have come to appreciate from Nancy Moser’s novels is the exquisite historical detail that she includes in her story. That is no less true for The Pattern Artist. It is full of details about life in New York of the early 1900’s and specifically what it would have been like to work at Macy’s as a shop girl, as well as Butterrick Pattern Compnay as a pattern artist and designer. It really highlighted a different world and a view that feels a bit unreal compared to now. Even the idea of a department story like Macy’s was considered a luxury and a novelty that it just doesn’t hold now. I enjoyed that aspect of the novel, as well as the details of sewing and clothing design of the times most desirable fashions.

Annie Wood has one of those indomitable spirits, making her a character that you hope will succeed. Her life changes drastically as the story progresses, and she is realistically shaken by all that happens, while simultaneously pleased and grateful for the good things that happen to her. I loved these things about her, and yet, there were some things I didn’t love about the story as a whole. The plot moves a bit slowly and seems to stall out on this one plot point, which for me, does nothing to propel what I considered to be the real story. I adjusted my expectations a bit once I realized this was going to take up a significant portion of the story, but it definitely wasn’t what I wished for the story’s focus. Once that aspect of the plot was more or less out of the way, I fell back into the story and was more engaged for the remainder of the story.

Overall, there was a sort of juvenile feeling to this, as though it was for a younger audience. That’s not a bad thing, just another expectation that I did not have and had to adjust. I was left with a desire of wanting more, as many of the situations just seemed to scratch the surface of the characters’ development. Despite the juvenile feeling of Annie’s character and some aspects of the story, I did appreciate that Annie possesses an overall positive outlook and willingness to rise above her current situation.

While The Pattern Artist is definitely not my favorite of the Nancy Moser novels that I’ve read thus far, it was an enjoyable read that touches on an intriguing time period and incorporates engaging historical details.

This review first appeared on Straight Off the Page.

[Nattie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I couldn't resist this book because it is historical fiction about servants and sewing. The synopsis mentioned the Butterick Pattern Company and I was practically drooling. I have a lot of vintage sewing patterns and a wonderful computerized Spiegel sewing machine, it would be nice if I actually had sewing skills! Oh well.

A large chunk of the story takes place over the course of less than 90 days. Normally a story like this would play out over a few years. The jam-packed flow of the book made Annie's life seem unrealistic. It was farfetched that a young woman would be a servant on Monday and a Macy's shopgirl on Wednesday.

In less than 90 days Annie had more major events happen to her than she'd had during her entire nineteen years. Things became more and more hard to believe as the author insisted on moving Annie up the career-ladder at warp speed.

There were a number of bits in the story that didn't make a drop of sense.

At one point Annie and her former-servant friend Valerie were living with a family who owned a bakery. Thomas, the son, fell for Annie from the first moment they met, and was not interested in Valerie which of course upset Valerie. After what couldn't have been more than six days, the subject of Thomas being interested in Annie was never mentioned again.

The book also features a vile character named Grasston who doesn't take no for an answer. He has a bone to pick with Annie and spends all his time picking it.

Annie meets too many people to really talk about them all, some of them were cliche. There was a young woman named Mildred who was jealous of her as soon as she started clerking at Macy's, then there was an older woman named Edna who became a mother-like figure to Annie in about 72 hours.

Annie's romance with the Butterick salesmen was fine, sean was a nice guy, but I'm tired of the insta-love.

There were a few things that rankled my nerves. One character felt she couldn't date because she was unable to have children, and her mother wanted grandchildren so she cut her mother off so she wouldn't disappoint her. Apparently she did not want anyone to know she couldn't carry a child.

If a woman capable of having children wasn't chomping at the bit to have them, she was looked at as though she had three heads and maybe several eyes.

The last one hundred pages or so became really God-heavy. Believing in God and trusting that he is with you was hammered home nonstop.

I wasn't in the mood for it. I choose to believe in God, but I don't want to be beaten over the head about the subject.

I regularly think about fate, and if we are all following a predetermined blueprint in life or if our lives are solely controlled by the actions of people. I wasn't in the mood to think about that while reading either, but there was little escape.

Usually I would appreciate the Titanic being thrown into the story, but it felt forced this time around, and I didn't like the predictable ending.

[Trisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read from Nancy Moser, and I can say it will not be my last. The Pattern Artist is a fantastic coming of age story. Annie, a strong young woman with big dreams and a lot to learn, she has many trials and thru it all grows not only in her character, but in her relationship with God. I have to say, you know a book is good when you find yourself talking to the characters in the book, telling them not to do something. The Pattern Artist is rich in history, and you will find several surprises too. I enjoyed learning more about this history of Butterick. I fondly remember going to the fabric store with my Mother and Grandmother, looking through the catalogs picking out patterns, searching for the matching numbered envelope in the drawers, selecting the material and helping to make outfits. Of course this book is about so much more than just pattern’s, but it certainly brought back fond memories. Even if you’ve never sewn anything, I’m sure that you will love this story!

*I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. My opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Olivia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was interested in giving this author another try as I didn't finish one book that I started by her. The first half of this book took me awhile to get into as it didn't grasp my attention. Everything with Grasston didn't seem to move the story at all! I felt that the characters could have been a little more devoloped and more details described, but the second half got a little better. I skimmed the last 3rd of the book as the story still didn't grip me. I liked the details of Macey's, Butterwick patterns, and a few historical characters-probably the main reason why I kept reading.

There were several good lessons in this book, including Anne's confession of her wrong which I was pleased about. In general the romance was good-but sometimes irritating as I felt Mr. Culver could have had a little more something in his character. My favorite characters were Maude and Danny!!

I still think some may enjoy this book, but I just couldn't get into the writing style.

*I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having grown up with a seamstress mother and learning to sew at a young age, I really enjoyed reading this book and learning about Annie's journey from housemaid to ladies' maid to Macy's sales clerk, to a Butterick pattern artist. The history was also incredibly well written including the Macy's story and the Butterick story. I used many Butterick patterns sewing my way through high school, college, early marriage and even for our son when he was little.

Annie learned two important things through her journey: to wait on God and His timing and confidence to belief in the gifts God had given her. Sean was the perfect partner for Annie and their slowly developing relationship and his support for Annie's dreams were perfect.

I reviewed the second book in this series, The Fashion Designer, so am really glad I read the first book to understand the backstory of Annie, Sean, and their group of friends.

[Janka H. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mixed feelings. The historical setting is exciting. All the energy and possibilities of the times! The authoress has obviously well researched the details and I find the novel being quite informative.
There are some enriching spiritual moments, too. Especially Mrs. Holmquist and Maude have a lot wisdom to offer.

Yet...there is also certain naivete and the lack of logic within the several subplots in the novel (the Grasston arc for example is quite hard to believe). Also...Annie is unfortunately too full of herself to be a likable character. Maude, for example, is much fuller character with many possibilities - I hope for her to have her own novel!

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, this book just blew me away! I was absolutely amazed at the wonderful writing by this author; everything that I love in a historical fiction book was included; this book did NOT disappoint! The book starts off with Annie Wood, a housemaid, landing in New York City on a voyage with her employer from England. She then meets Iris and Danny, two staff members of the home in which she is visiting. On a whim, the three decide to quit their jobs and take a chance on a new life, finding refuge in a family's bakery, which then becomes their workplace for a time. Annie has higher ambitions though, and gets a job at Macy's, which opens up a wealth of opportunities for her. From the moment that I first began reading this book, I was amazed at the historical accuracy; from the World Series Games to Mr. Straus (Macy's Co-Owner) making a few appearances, to the Butterwick Company, and lastly, the Titanic. I loved how the author interwove the various historical events to fit the lives of the featured characters; she was spot-on with how each of these historical events played-out, which made me even more intrigued as I continued to read. In terms of the characters themselves, I loved how Annie became a wonder everywhere she went; from Tuttle's, to Macy's, then Butterwick's. She stole my heart with her kindness, decency, and ambition, something that really made me idolize her as a fictional character. The secondary characters of Edna, Maude, Mildred, Iris, Danny, Thomas, Jane, and Sean outlined the beauty of Annie's life, going from a lonely housemaid, to a successful pattern artist with a wealth of friends, and even a beau! Such a well-written book, this one definitely kept me on my toes; I can't wait to read the sequel!

[Hari · Rating 1 out of 5]

Oh I wish I'd read more reviews before reading this book! The Pattern Artist has been promoted as a book about a girl who rises up from the ranks from a housemaid to a fashion designer in New York in 1911. It's supposed to be about sewing, the Butterick Pattern company, fashion houses of Paris and "a life of adventure, purpose and love" to quote the book blurb. All things I love. I really should have paid more attention to the phrase "God's leading" also in the blurb because this is a Christian instruction book first and foremost.

There was the potential for a truly interesting story, however the story's basic premise is merely there to shove Christian teachings down your throat. What also makes it so unreadable is that the author doesn't even seem to know about the basic literary technique of Show, Don't Tell. Attributed to Chekhov, it's something every novice writer needs to learn and has often been paraphrased as "Don't tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass." The characters are cardboard cutouts; the "beau" or love interest is judgemental and pushy, constantly reprimanding her and telling her what she should do; and a merciful God apparently answers chanting prayers for justice by killing (no spoiler alert I didn't say what or who ;) ). And oh my lord Madame LeFleur! It's all "so zis is", "ze ideas" and "zat fashion" or my personal favourite "Zey prefer ze term 'galeries' razer zan 'shows'", just so we don't forget that the character is French.

Fair warning. This is the review I wish I'd read before wasting my time on this book. Lucky I'm a speed reader :)

[Eva · Rating 1 out of 5]

I had a great hopes for this book, based on other reviews. The subject matter has great potential, but, what a disappointment!! It is so naive as a book for children, characters are very shallow,language - very simple, there is nothing interesting about it. I don't understand how could it have gotten such high average rating.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it!

My sister recommended the book to me! We both enjoy reading and enjoy a good book! This was a very a good book!

Annie was a maid when she came to New York with the family she works with in England.

She has dreams of becoming a lady's maid not just staying a lowly housemaid.
She gets a chance to go out in New York and has a chance to go to Macy's department store, she falls in love with the store and starts dreaming about working there.

She befriends two servants from the house that they are visiting. So when she tells Iris and her younger brother Danny about her dreams of working in Macy's, they tell her about their dreams.

So the three of them decide to leave and follow their dreams! They have their ups and downs and find a place to stay the second night

Going through everything they have to go through they stay friends, Annie gets a job at Macy's. Iris and Danny work at the bakery where they found the place to stay the second night they were out on their own.

They all seemed to be on their way up when tragedy hits home, but you must read the book to find out what it is!

Believe me you will not be disappointed in the story! It is well worth the time to read!

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 2 out of 5]

About this book:

“Can a lowly housemaid realize her own American dream?
Born into a life of hard work, English housemaid Annie Wood arrives in New York City in 1911 with her wealthy mistress. Wide-eyed with the possibilities America has to offer, Annie wonders if there’s more for her than a life of service.
Annie chooses to risk everything, taps into courage she never knew she had, and goes off on her own, finding employment in the sewing department at Macy’s. While at Macy’s Annie catches the eye of a salesman at the Butterick Pattern Company. Through determination, hard work, and God’s leading, Annie discovers a hidden gift: she is a talented fashion designer—a pattern artist of the highest degree.
As she runs from ghosts of the past and focuses on the future, Annie enters a creative world that takes her to the fashion houses of Paris and into a life of adventure, purpose, and love.”


Series: As of now, no.


Spiritual Content- Many prayers, thanking God, blessings over food & a peaceful voice; A few Scriptures are read, mentioned & talked about; Church going, hymns, sermons & thinking about God; Christmas, services & songs (along with mentions of them); Many talks about God, servants, gifts, free will, peace, & praise; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Annie believes in God and prayers, but has a hard time fathers are loving, but *Spoiler* at the end, Annie gives her life to God at the end. *End of Spoiler*; Many mentions of God; Many mentions of prayers & blessings over food; Mentions of bibles; Mentions of churches & a vicar; Mentions of blessings; Mentions of a cross necklace; A few mentions of Heaven; A couple mentions of those in the Bible; A couple mentions of Christians; A couple mentions of Jews; A couple mentions of sins; A mention of being a godsend; A mention of crossing;
*Note: A mention of the bowls of Hades; A mention of hellions; A couple mentions of superstitions; Mentions of spirits.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blast them’, a ‘drat’, two ‘dumb’s, and five ‘stupid’s; Many mentions of the Titanic, deaths & drownings; Mentions of murder, a body, blood, and a beaten & stabbed to death child (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a body, suicide, & blood (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths & how they happened (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of fighting, punching & a knife; Mentions of jail & a criminal; Mentions of drunks, drinking, beer & pubs; Mentions of cigarettes, cigars & smoking; Mentions of chambers pots, privies, waste & the stench; Mentions of bullies, a mean girl, thieves & stealing; Mentions of lying & lies; Mentions of gossip; Mentions of sarcasm & eye rolling; A mention of a war.


Sexual Content- a hand kiss, a head kiss, three cheek kisses, an almost kiss, two not-detailed kisses, and two barely-above-not-detailed; Touches, Embraces & Nearness (barely-above-not-detailed); A bit of noticing; A man swats Annie’s behind; The same man corners Annie, grabs her and bites her ear; A brute assaults Annie & tries to force himself on her, but is stopped before anything happens (barely-above-not-detailed); Another woman shares her story of when she was raped, left for the dead and being physically damaged from it all (no true details, but mentions and hints of the pain and such); Mentions of a man grabbing and rubbing against a maid; Mentions of unwanted attention, grabby men, ruination & temptations; Mentions of men winking & whistling at women; Mentions of a man’s inappropriate behavior against Annie & Iris; Mentions of a man standing too close & making rude comments to Annie; Mentions of labor & a birth (barley-above-not-detailed); Mentions of kissing & scandals; Mentions of flirting, blushes, flattery & liking someone; A mention of a married couple kissing; Love, falling in love & the emotions;
*Note: A mention of a young woman being mistaken for a 12 year old because of her flat chest; A mention of bustles that made women’s bottoms look enormous; A mention of a sign just saying ‘butt’; A couple (teasing) mentions of nakedness; Mentions of undressing, unmentionables & modesty; Mentions of a young lady who delights in eating & others making comments about her weight.

-Annie Wood, age 19
P.O.V. of Annie
Set in 1911-1912
317 pages

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Two Stars
Well. That was historically interesting. It was very fascinating with all the history the author put in it. The cover is a great fit for this book. There was a lot of Spiritual Content and I so enjoyed that fact. I liked Annie, she was fun. Sean seemed too-good-to-be-true, but he and Annie weren’t bad together. (And then I realized that he would most likely have to go to war in a few years after this book.) At first I was overwhelmed by all the characters, but after some left (or died) it was easier. Writing wise, it felt like everything happening at once, but I liked the ending.
I would truly like to give this book a higher rating, but I simply cannot because of the grabby jerk and the murder of a 13 year old. I have read the cad cliché so many times in Christian historical fiction, and frankly, I’m tired of it. Can there be action and a bit of drama that’s not sexually related?


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Shiloh Run Press) for this honest review.

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm torn on this book. There were many aspects that I enjoyed reading. I enjoyed several of the historical aspects. I liked the time period and the setting. I liked the characters. But there were moments while reading that I felt as if I was on information overload or a character that felt as if their development happened too quickly. I will say that reading the synopsis for the book had me thinking it would be just about a young woman finding her place in life and becoming a pattern artist, as the title says. Which, the book is about that, and yet there are several more aspects included.

This is a Christian fiction novel and does have a lot of talk about God, which is a major factor in this book. For the most part I enjoyed it, but there were a couple spots that I struggled with. Annie is our MC and at the beginning of the novel she didn't really know who God was but starts getting impressions to do something. She comes to learn that God is directing her and through people she meets, teaches her more the nature of God. For a Christian novel there was a good arc of her coming to rely on God and trusting in His hand to guide her. I enjoyed that and truly believe that God does guide us to where we need to be. But I also believe, as is pointed out in the book, that we have the power to choose. Sometimes we are guided as a protection and sometimes as a blessing to increase, or better our lives, or the lives of others. We are all intertwined in many ways that we may only catch a glimpse of. This novel explores that idea and shows Annie's life being bettered as she chooses certain paths, not always the best choice but she has redemptive moments to correct a mistake and learn from it.

Sometimes Annie felt like she would flit from one situation/group of friends to the next. I would just start settling in with one moment and she would jump quickly to something else. She had a hard time being satisfied at first and then would seem to be content only to feel like she needed more. That was somewhat frustrating to read. Yes it did help the story along and progress the character to where the author's end goal was for her but I felt that the flow of the story was disrupted by it at some points. I found myself skimming and flipping pages at some of these moments because I didn't connect as well with the characters then. The conversations between the characters felt rushed and disjointed in some parts. In one scene, a character was describing his back story, as requested by another character. It seemed after every sentence he would be interrupted by the different characters listening to him speak. Those interruptions felt like they were just fillers to remind us that the other characters were still there. But it was distracting. That's one example, but that happened a few times throughout that for me I couldn't connect with a moving story/moment because I'd be pulled out by an unnecessary comment.

There is some angst and we have a bad guy character throughout. At first he felt pretty intense and then it would be anticlimactic and then he'd show up as a teaser only to finish off in a way I wasn't expecting. Not bad, but not good either. But I will say he played his part well in creating a looming angst over the storyline.

As far as development of Annie, she was either too perfect and amazing at what she did with little struggle or she made some really poor choices, was embarrassed for a moment and then back to being perfect. I would have liked to see more struggle or humility for her talents. I will say though that she was a good friend to those she came in contact with. Her relationship with the love interest was frustrating. They had a great beginning but then it would fizzle out as she was becoming more notable and then she didn't want to lose what they had so she would try to hold onto him but then he was in the way of her career and so it wouldn't work. Ok I might be a little over dramatizing that but the nice balance and development that I prefer wasn't quite there. So again it was hard to connect with these characters completely that I would be reading every word and cheering for them.

I think if you are looking for a historical Christian fiction you might enjoy this one. After all my thoughts above I will say it wasn't a bad read. I was intrigued with many aspects and kept reading because I wanted to know how it would turn out. Now there are several historical aspects but some are just little bits and pieces and others are more reputable. I've read a couple other books by this author. One I really liked and the other I skimmed due to time so I can't give a good opinion on it but between all three I would probably read more or go back and reread the one I really liked. But my opinion is of course my own and what I like may not be what other readers like and some readers may find they absolutely loved this book. So if you are on the fence, even more so after reading my thoughts of the book being ok, take a chance and see for yourself. You might love it or you might feel it is ok.

Content: a few mild kisses, an attempted rape(does not get graphic), a character tells of being raped(again not graphic-just more mentioning it happened), a character being stabbed(broken record here...not graphic but does mention blood). Overall it wasn't squeaky clean but pretty close even with the above mentioned items. There are Christian discussions since it is a Christian fiction, which I already talked about the those aspects within the book.

I received a copy from the publisher, Shiloh Run Press, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Diane Shearer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The history is better than the story. If not for the subject matter being so interesting it would get three stars. This would be good for the young women in your life. Lots of good history and lessons to be learned. As a home sewer, or sewist as we call ourselves these days, I loved the story of Macy’s and Buttericks patterns. I wore homemade clothes through the 60s until I foolishly rebelled in high school. Of course, as soon as I knew our first child was on the way I started sewing again, which led to a quilting obsession. She packs a great deal into this small story and the Christian morality is very much part of the action, so if that offends you don’t read it. I don’t understand people who read Christian lit and then leave bad reviews because there’s too much religion. I can’t recommend the audiobook. It’s AI so the mispronunciation is glaring and there is no attempt to recreate accents. It’s really bad when they get to Paris and use a lot of French words. The book is about home sewers which the voice pronounces as sue-ers. I know, the English language is difficult, even for computers.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!! Who knew that my beloved ship would be in this wonderful book by Nancy!!
I love surprises like that!!!
I also enjoyed the excerpts at the from the author explaining where her ideas come from.
I too enjoyed imaging what New York looked like in that time period.
The only thing I dislike in the story was that the rich treated those that were beneath them like trash.
Other than that, I very much enjoyed my time travel for this book
I received this from Netgalley for free.
All opinions are my own!!

[Kim-Lost-In-A-Book · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars

I liked the historical aspects and tie-ins of this book, I liked the fashion plates in the back showing a couple of the dresses described in the book.

Annie was too perfect and unrealistic, and her humility seemed so fake.

Overall a good story, but it just seemed a little too over the top syrupy for me. That being said, I didn't expect it to be so dark with the story line around Danny.

[Joleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not my favorite Moser book. Far-fetched.

I did enjoy the history of the day, though.

[Joy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical, Christian, Romance.
Beautiful!
Not only are we introduced to America in the early days, but also God and finding/using our talents!

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story...reading about Annie's love of fabric and her journey in finding it was a God given gift left me feeling good after finishing the book. Traveling with her family to America at age 14 had to be a frightening adventure, especially after arriving and finding New York is a very different city from her hometown. With both positive and negative events Annie still manages to use her gift to glorify God.

"The Pattern Artist" is full of surprises and interesting history, it gets 5 stars from me.


I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Jennifer Lara · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Pattern Artist by Nancy Moser is the story of one woman’s dream to make her life better than what she lived before. Annie Wood is a housemaid for a wealthy English family. She has dreams of becoming a lady’s maid in the household as she travels with Lady Newly and her daughter, Miss Henrietta, to America. When she realizes that her dream isn’t going to become a reality, she strikes off on her own in New York City.
Set in 1911, Annie is a young woman with a natural talent for fashion and her skills for alternations and sewing are used to the advantage of the lady’s maids. She sets out with Iris and Danny Dalking, servants from the household that she’s visiting. Alone on the streets with nothing to their names, the trio is taken in by a family who runs a bakery. Knowing that working in a bakery isn’t where she wants to be, Annie sets off and tries to get at job at Macy’s. To her surprise, she does and immediately begins to establish herself with great customer service and an eye for the fashions her customers desire. She soon gets involved with a pattern salesman, Sean Culver, who helps open another door which will lead her closer to a new dream of design fashions for the everyday woman. As she works, more and more doors of opportunity open. Does she dare walk through them, knowing there is no return? Can she trust God to guide her through those doors?
The Pattern Artist is a great story of the American Spirit where “humble beginnings are a badge of honor. It’s not where you begin but where you end up.” I loved Annie who struggles with her own worth but had the bravery to try anyway. I loved all the characters she meets along the way especially Sean. The budding romance between the two is sweet and heartwarming. The story has romance, suspense, heartbreak and joy. I highly recommend The Pattern Artist.

The Pattern Artist
is available
in hardcover, paperback and Kindle/Nook
on Amazon and Barnes and Noble

[Debra Slonek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part adventure and part love story, this book was filled with well-developed characters, warm friendships and realistic relationships. This was Annie's story. Instead of dwelling on her difficult and humble past, Annie chose joy and hope.

Annie had learned to use her God given free will to make good choices which opened up the best opportunities for her. Annie's new life in America had become a series of enormous leaps of faith. As each new door of opportunity opened, she learned to walk through with a combination of humble gratitude and confidence, which served her well.

Annie had become the center of a circle of friends who supported each other and celebrated together. This circle of friends became chosen family members for one another. Annie learned many things from the people who had become part of her life.

From Danny, she learned to make the most of each day. Danny was a young man with an infectious desire for adventure and to be deliriously happy. He was also a hard worker and a fierce protector.

From Maude, she learned to use her talents wisely. At times, situations called for boldness, and other times discretion and quietness were most needed and appreciated.

From Sean, she learned that when seeking the best possible outcome, one should pray for direction and pay attention to godly gut feelings. Also, being on the right path yields a sense of peace.

Through and because of her journey and experiences, Annie now lived with peace, happiness, contentment, excitement and gratitude. Annie experienced many open doors and exercised her free will to make choices that allowed her to dream and glimpse small bits of heaven while still on earth.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Pattern Artist was an interesting historical taking place during and around the year 1911. We follow English housemaid Annie Wood from Summerside England with her employers visit to New York. Here Annie must face the crushing reality that some of her dreams may not come true, however, in true American spirit, she realizes that she can achieve more for her life here in the United States than going back home.

With her new friends, she decides to strike out on her own and when she does the floodgates are opened. Not without struggles and she even has to contend with a very evil man who begins stalking her. She also meets some very wise women who befriend her and come alongside her as she maps out her new life in the States. And romance is in the air for her when she meets a salesman by the name of Sean.

Filled with historical detail, we get to go behind the scenes of Macy’s department store and get a glimpse of what life might be like for an immigrant starting over and trying to find her place in a new world. I really liked learning about the tidbits of history that this story focused on and I was so pleased that author Nancy Moser included samples of what some of the dresses would have looked like. Sometimes it is difficult to envision a fashion that I am not familiar with and those pictures added a depth to the story. This was my first read by Nancy Moser and I look forward to more of her stories.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing. I was not required to give a positive review and the views expressed are my own.

[Brandi (Rambles of a SAHM) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It has been a couple of years since I read a novel by Nancy Moser and in that time I had forgotten just how compelling her stories could be. The Pattern Artist is about a young housemaid with a talent for sewing and designing outfits. Annie has aspirations of becoming a ladies maid because of that talent but soon finds those hopes dashed by deceit.

Annie comes from very humble beginnings and wants nothing to do with that sort of thing again. Her parents and their negativity about everything has left a bad taste and she is determined to have a different life. Annie is a pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps type of person. Unfortunately she feels as if it's all up to her and that leads to some very selfish behavior, the exact thing she was trying to eschew.

The Pattern Artist is a delightful story of man (Annie and the others) making their plans but ultimately God guiding their steps. It is a story filled with dire circumstances and Divine intervention. I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to reading more from Nancy.

If you like to read historical fiction with a twist of intrigue and romance then this book would suit you. If you are part of a book club that enjoys this genre this would be a wonderful addition. There are discussion questions included in the back that will help facilitate your discussions.

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Pattern Artist tells the story of a young immigrant woman, Annie Wood, who comes to America as a housemaid to an aristocratic British family. When she discovers she will never be more than a housemaid, she decides that is just what she doesn't want for the rest of her life.

Annie has a gift for sewing and designing. She soon finds a job in the sewing department at Macy's Department store. She soon comes to know a salesman of the Butterick Pattern Company, who puts in a good word for her and soon she is working for Butterick, designing patterns.

I enjoyed reading all about the pattern designing company. My mother was a seamstress and I very well remember cutting out the Butterick patterns she bought. Butterick was her favorite brand of patterns.

This book is rich in historical detail, something I thoroughly enjoy. The characters were engaging and the settings were wonderful. I enjoyed the book very much.

*I was provided with a copy of this book by the publisher. My review is my own.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of my favorite books of 2016. Nancy Moser has a talent for mixing historical details that give the flavor of the time with fiction to create a beautiful historical fiction novel. Annie, the main character, has spunk, ambition, and yet retains some humility also. She gains both friends and enemies, and it is fascinating to see how her choices, with God's help, shape her life. Set in 1911, the plot involves the Titanic, Butterick pattern company, social status, deception, murder, and romance. The settings include New York City, Macy's Department store, and Paris, France. With my sewing background, the information about Butterick patterns fascinated me, but I think it would also interest someone who does not sew at all. Christian historical fiction fans will love this one! I highly recommend it.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Pattern Artist is a delightful read about Annie Wood, a servant girl from London, who comes to NYC as a maid. She is an excellent seamstress, and is often called to help fancy up the ladies' dresses. She is treated poorly by the ladies' maids she works with, and along with two other servants, runs away. She gets a job at a large department store in the pattern department where she befriends a Butterick pattern salesman. From this friendship, she obtains a job at Butterick.

The book offers something for everyone - a little romance, a dastardly villain, a murder, a bit of history (Butterick, women's rights, and the Titanic!). The religious thread was wound throughout the book, but not in an overbearing manner.

If you are a fan of Downton Abbey, I think that you would enjoy this book.