What do you think?
Rate this book
The Shoemaker
The delightfully entertaining story of an impoverished vicar's daughter, born the youngest of four daughters and one son… Miss Catherine Edwina Lyndon finds she has no other choice than to accept hand-me-down dresses and one delayed, broken dream after another; all whilst her parents make every possible effort to attract husbands for her three older sisters. They spend every extra shilling with this in mind. Her three sisters are now "out" in fashionable society, but Vicar Lyndon is old-fashioned and won't permit Catherine the same opportunities until at least one or two of her sisters are wed.
Catherine has grown so accustomed to being overlooked, she doesn't realize her hopes lay on a pile of wasted dreams when she sacrifices the desire for a marriage and family of her own. She is barely holding onto the idea of championing the cause of education reform for women across England after being denied a bold request for entry to a leading university. Aggravated by a contentious new sister-in-law, she escapes the confines of a sheltered life at home in the countryside of Essex by journeying to Northampton. There, she accepts the position of companion to the daughters of an aristocratic family.
Amidst a household full of silly young ladies visiting the daughters of the peerage recently out of mourning, many sent for the holiday by their mothers with their eyes on the handsome older brother now in possession of the Duke's title, will mercy look down and make a miracle for her this year at Christmas? If so, what situations and who will be the catalysts and antagonists mercy chooses to use?
This 138 page novel which includes a Regency Glossary and illustrations, shines a brief spotlight on William Law (Church of England priest, writer, and theologian who inspired the evangelical Wesley brothers), Charles Wesley (a leading voice in the founding of the Methodist church and writer of over 6,000 hymns), and Richard Baxter (Puritan leader, theologian, and writer of the 1600's).
Lisa M. Prysock is the author of "To Find a Duchess," "Hannah's Garden: a Turn of the Century Love Story," "Abigail's Melody," "The Redemption of Lady Georgiana," "Protecting Miss Jenna," "Persecution & Providence," and a 30 Day Devotional Challenge, "Arise Warrior Princess." You can find out more about this author at www.LisaPrysock.com. A generous portion of her book proceeds helps to support missions. As always, she writes clean and wholesome Christian Historical Romance.
Catherine has grown so accustomed to being overlooked, she doesn't realize her hopes lay on a pile of wasted dreams when she sacrifices the desire for a marriage and family of her own. She is barely holding onto the idea of championing the cause of education reform for women across England after being denied a bold request for entry to a leading university. Aggravated by a contentious new sister-in-law, she escapes the confines of a sheltered life at home in the countryside of Essex by journeying to Northampton. There, she accepts the position of companion to the daughters of an aristocratic family.
Amidst a household full of silly young ladies visiting the daughters of the peerage recently out of mourning, many sent for the holiday by their mothers with their eyes on the handsome older brother now in possession of the Duke's title, will mercy look down and make a miracle for her this year at Christmas? If so, what situations and who will be the catalysts and antagonists mercy chooses to use?
This 138 page novel which includes a Regency Glossary and illustrations, shines a brief spotlight on William Law (Church of England priest, writer, and theologian who inspired the evangelical Wesley brothers), Charles Wesley (a leading voice in the founding of the Methodist church and writer of over 6,000 hymns), and Richard Baxter (Puritan leader, theologian, and writer of the 1600's).
Lisa M. Prysock is the author of "To Find a Duchess," "Hannah's Garden: a Turn of the Century Love Story," "Abigail's Melody," "The Redemption of Lady Georgiana," "Protecting Miss Jenna," "Persecution & Providence," and a 30 Day Devotional Challenge, "Arise Warrior Princess." You can find out more about this author at www.LisaPrysock.com. A generous portion of her book proceeds helps to support missions. As always, she writes clean and wholesome Christian Historical Romance.
451 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2017
82 people are currently reading
431 people want to read
About the author
Lisa M. Prysock
74 books413 followersLisa Prysock is an award-winning, "USA Today" Bestselling Author of Christian Historical Romance and Contemporary Romance novels. She writes in genres which include Christian Suspense, Westerns, Victorian Romance, Civil War Era, Mail-Order Bride stories, Mystery, and more. She enjoys including humor in her books. Readers will often find food, fashion, faith, and fun in her writing. Happily married, she and her husband of 25 years make their home in beautiful Kentucky. They have five children, grown.
Lisa's early childhood years include time spent growing up on a northern, Minnesota farm. She has many happy memories of gardening, hiking, bicycle riding, a tree house, and hanging out with a cow named Daisy, chickens, and a few horses. She also grew up in the Ohio Valley near her grandparents. Their ministry greatly impacted her life.
She enjoys working with the children and youth in her church family. She can often be found trying to put together a human video with the kids to a new Christian song. Some of her favorite activities include: family time, sewing, crochet, cross stitching, reading, sketching, scrapbooking, cooking, gardening, walking, swimming, and working out--when she is not writing.
Lisa loves all things old fashioned and sharing her faith in Jesus through her writing. Her debut novel, "To Find a Duchess," was published in 2011. Since then, she has written more than thirty novels.
For more information about Lisa, check out her website at LisaPrysock.com for reader resources, free recipes, devotionals, giveaways, and more.
Lisa's early childhood years include time spent growing up on a northern, Minnesota farm. She has many happy memories of gardening, hiking, bicycle riding, a tree house, and hanging out with a cow named Daisy, chickens, and a few horses. She also grew up in the Ohio Valley near her grandparents. Their ministry greatly impacted her life.
She enjoys working with the children and youth in her church family. She can often be found trying to put together a human video with the kids to a new Christian song. Some of her favorite activities include: family time, sewing, crochet, cross stitching, reading, sketching, scrapbooking, cooking, gardening, walking, swimming, and working out--when she is not writing.
Lisa loves all things old fashioned and sharing her faith in Jesus through her writing. Her debut novel, "To Find a Duchess," was published in 2011. Since then, she has written more than thirty novels.
For more information about Lisa, check out her website at LisaPrysock.com for reader resources, free recipes, devotionals, giveaways, and more.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
November 23, 2021
This is my first read by Christian author, Lisa M. Prysock; but it definitely won't be my last. The Shoemaker is a Regency romance set at Christmas time. Catherine Edwina Lyndon "Winnie", a vicar's daughter, has been recommended as a companion for two young women. When she reaches their home in Northampton, England. She finds their parents have both died and their brother, Lord Kingston, is now duke. Christmas is fast approaching with all the events that take place during that time period. Will romance fill the air as Christmas approaches?
Prysock fills this delightful story with all the smells, sounds, and joy of Christmas in England. . Her detailed descriptions of the life and times vividly bring the time period to life. Her list of characters at the beginning of the novel definitely help keep them straight; and even though there are quite a few due to the many houseguests, it is easy to keep them straight. I loved the Biblical passages at the beginning of each chapter. The developing relationship between Kingston and Winnie was interesting to watch as they discovered their many commonalities. And the role the Shoemaker and his family played added a wonderful Christmas touch to this delightful tale.
Prysock fills this delightful story with all the smells, sounds, and joy of Christmas in England. . Her detailed descriptions of the life and times vividly bring the time period to life. Her list of characters at the beginning of the novel definitely help keep them straight; and even though there are quite a few due to the many houseguests, it is easy to keep them straight. I loved the Biblical passages at the beginning of each chapter. The developing relationship between Kingston and Winnie was interesting to watch as they discovered their many commonalities. And the role the Shoemaker and his family played added a wonderful Christmas touch to this delightful tale.
July 23, 2019
For those who enjoy the fanciful with oh-so much detail. Way too many names to deal with - even the main characters have a couple of names. Finally had to skip over all the silly friend's names and escorts to get to the actual subject matter. Difficult to understand the title since it seemed more an after-thought than about the main theme, despite the Biblical inserts involved. Also, being a realist by nature, no rich aristocrat would choose to marry a stranger within a two week span of knowing them nor would royal parents indicate such need in their will....Despite all this, for those who enjoy this genre, and skipping over all the un-necessary details, it is an entertaining novella, especially for the Christian reader.
October 23, 2017
Fantastic book
I don't normally like books from this era but this surpassed my expectations. The author has done wonderful research to bring the time to life. I loved the character of Jorie and her family. The shoemaker had a really important role to play in sharing the love of the Lord.
I don't normally like books from this era but this surpassed my expectations. The author has done wonderful research to bring the time to life. I loved the character of Jorie and her family. The shoemaker had a really important role to play in sharing the love of the Lord.
October 27, 2017
God's Mercy
The theme of God:s Mercy is woven throughout this novel. A hint of mystery provides a touch of who dunnit which adds another clever touch to "The Shoemaker".
I especially liked the description of the shoemaker's shop. It would be fun to stand at the picture window and watch as each pair of shoes is created. I recommend this book for
The theme of God:s Mercy is woven throughout this novel. A hint of mystery provides a touch of who dunnit which adds another clever touch to "The Shoemaker".
I especially liked the description of the shoemaker's shop. It would be fun to stand at the picture window and watch as each pair of shoes is created. I recommend this book for
October 28, 2017
A Regency romance I loved!
I'm not normally a fan of Regency romances, but this one may make me re-think my opinion! Romantic without being sugary, and a bit of a mystery thrown in for good measure. A sweet, clean story with a happy ending. There are enough interesting characters to make a terrific series, should the author want to go that way. Definitely worth a read!
I'm not normally a fan of Regency romances, but this one may make me re-think my opinion! Romantic without being sugary, and a bit of a mystery thrown in for good measure. A sweet, clean story with a happy ending. There are enough interesting characters to make a terrific series, should the author want to go that way. Definitely worth a read!
November 4, 2017
Christmas
I was delighted reading this book. Learning about old times in England. Reading of mercy. You have no trouble putting your self in the ballroom or on the stair case. Lost in the library. I very much enjoyed this book. Well researched. But most of all it was a story of God's mercy and love. Liked the cover and title. It went well together. Enjoy.
I was delighted reading this book. Learning about old times in England. Reading of mercy. You have no trouble putting your self in the ballroom or on the stair case. Lost in the library. I very much enjoyed this book. Well researched. But most of all it was a story of God's mercy and love. Liked the cover and title. It went well together. Enjoy.
November 25, 2017
Sweet Christian romance
This is a book I must add in print to my personal library. I loved it! A strong presence of Christian beliefs throughout. It isn't a romance story with a strong conflict and constant roadblocks. This is a smooth expression of friendship, love, mercy, and overcoming grief. I really enjoyed the characters and religious elements.
This is a book I must add in print to my personal library. I loved it! A strong presence of Christian beliefs throughout. It isn't a romance story with a strong conflict and constant roadblocks. This is a smooth expression of friendship, love, mercy, and overcoming grief. I really enjoyed the characters and religious elements.
November 12, 2017
Lisa Prysock incorporates several delightful stories into one marvelous novel. I loved Winnie and Kingston's story, but also enjoyed learning about the shoemaker and his family and Jorie's story. This is a sweet, clean story of love, friendship and faith that I didn't want to end.
January 4, 2018
Lisa Prysock does it again, the story of Miss Catherine pulls you into the story line and makes you feel like you are in Regency London with her. You'll fall in love as the two main characters dance around each other and end up happily ever after
September 25, 2019
A delightful, historical fiction written with care, accuracy and great attention to detail. The shoemaker shop and family added such an interesting spin to the story, and the name for the book was inspiritual. Well-done, Lisa Prysock. I certainly will be reading more of your work.
May 4, 2017
Enchanting
What an enchanting and informative book, very exciting learning about the Christmas seasons of the past, and the traditions also.
What an enchanting and informative book, very exciting learning about the Christmas seasons of the past, and the traditions also.
October 29, 2017
A delightfully endearing Christian Christmas novel. Loved it. Absolutely beautiful story.
October 30, 2017
Good read
This book has enough going to keep the reader I interest for the whole book. I liked the little bit of suspense of who did it.
This book has enough going to keep the reader I interest for the whole book. I liked the little bit of suspense of who did it.
January 11, 2018
The shoemaker weaves in and out of the story leaving bits of wisdom for all who will heed his words. Beautiful love story drawing the social classes ever closer.
August 27, 2018
This is my second favorite! So many little things that are just amazingly written into a lovely story!
February 21, 2019
Awesome Book
This is a great book. It held my interest from beginning to end. Really had a hard time putting the book down.
This is a great book. It held my interest from beginning to end. Really had a hard time putting the book down.
October 13, 2020
A cute story, but...
I enjoyed the story, but it often got bogged down in unnecessary details. There were long periods of telling instead of dropping the reader into the scene. I actually got bored on several instances and either set it aside or skipped large chunks. Learning deep POV and the art of detail balance would be a great help. I also missed a typical amount of conflict and problem story lines. Everything came out way too quickly and seamlessly. However, I did stick with it until the end, almost.
I enjoyed the story, but it often got bogged down in unnecessary details. There were long periods of telling instead of dropping the reader into the scene. I actually got bored on several instances and either set it aside or skipped large chunks. Learning deep POV and the art of detail balance would be a great help. I also missed a typical amount of conflict and problem story lines. Everything came out way too quickly and seamlessly. However, I did stick with it until the end, almost.
November 18, 2025
The author clearly did a lot of research, and explains it at the end of the book, including a neat little Regency glossary.
Sadly, she seems to be just not that gifted in the sorry telling area... it often felt more like simple reports of the events and the characters all stayed quite distant. Also the misogyny and the main protagonist being the ultimate pick me while everyone else was called "silly girls" and superficial was quite annoying. Not sure if there was a love story in this book or just coercion and manipulation.
Sadly, she seems to be just not that gifted in the sorry telling area... it often felt more like simple reports of the events and the characters all stayed quite distant. Also the misogyny and the main protagonist being the ultimate pick me while everyone else was called "silly girls" and superficial was quite annoying. Not sure if there was a love story in this book or just coercion and manipulation.
February 25, 2017
The holidays
A good read...enjoy reading the love story......felt it moved too fast...the rich and poor......hard too imagine that they mingled as they did.....
A good read...enjoy reading the love story......felt it moved too fast...the rich and poor......hard too imagine that they mingled as they did.....
August 28, 2019
A governess/companion in Regency England is a story that has been done many times. This version has some nice twists and characters that will lead me to read this author again.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews