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December Girl
Molly Thomas is a feisty, independent soul, born on the Winter Solstice in the beautiful Boyne Valley, Ireland. At every stage of her life, she has faced troubles. As a young woman, her family are evicted from their home at Christmas. Molly swears vengeance on the jealous neighbour and land agent responsible, Flann Montgomery. Then in 1896, her baby son is taken from his pram. While Molly searches the streets for little Oliver, the police are called but her baby is gone. Why does trouble seem to follow Molly? And will she ever find out what happened to her child?
316 pages, ebook
Published March 31, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
October 25, 2017
Molly Thomas and her family have had it tough living in Ireland during the late 1800’s. On Christmas day her family was evicted from their home by their landlord. Molly felt that the action was unjustified and her suspicions are confirmed when the dishonest man moves his family into their former home. She is furious and plots her revenge. A series of bad incidents forces her to leave her family and move to London. Life is tough for the young woman and she is forced to take drastic steps to survive.
After a rough year, things improve for Molly and she gets married. One afternoon while out shopping, her baby is taken from his pram. She is desperate to find her child and exhausts herself in her search. Nobody in her community has any clues about his whereabouts, and she is worried that she might never find him. Her search is heartbreaking and unveils more mysteries about her tough life.
This book is a combination of historical fiction and mystery while touching on the universal theme of love. This is a debut novel by Nicola Cassidy and was inspired by true stories relating to eviction and kidnapping.
After a rough year, things improve for Molly and she gets married. One afternoon while out shopping, her baby is taken from his pram. She is desperate to find her child and exhausts herself in her search. Nobody in her community has any clues about his whereabouts, and she is worried that she might never find him. Her search is heartbreaking and unveils more mysteries about her tough life.
This book is a combination of historical fiction and mystery while touching on the universal theme of love. This is a debut novel by Nicola Cassidy and was inspired by true stories relating to eviction and kidnapping.
October 19, 2017
This review was originally posted on Between My Lines
December Girl by Nicola Cassidy whirled me to 1894 rural Ireland and later to London on a riveting and emotional journey. I loved reading it. So I’m excited to join today’s blog tour to tell you a bit more about this début novel from a fellow Irish blogger.
First Line of December Girl by Nicola Cassidy
“The sea was grey and the skyline was missing.”
My Thoughts on December Girl by Nicola Cassidy
My favourite thing about this book is how unexpected a journey it took me on. I didn’t guess from the outset just what direction it would take, and how seedy the locations would actually be at times. But I loved that unpredictability. So I’m not going to dive too much into the plot in this review, so that you too can experience that journey.
The main character Molly is a rebel with a heart of gold. Due to unfortunate circumstances, her family are evicted from their family home. And from that point onwards Molly plunged into a downward spiral. But no matter how dubious her decisions were at times, I always rooted for her because I loved her family loyalties, and her dogged survivor instincts. A true heroine in my eyes.
I also appreciated how meticulously researched the book was. The facts seemed accurate to me, and nothing jarred me about the historical elements. I’m a history nerd and I love my historical fiction but it needs to be authentic. Thankfully it was! The attitude of the characters, the language they spoke , and even down to the clothes they wore; all evoked a vivid sense of time and place.
I’m a book reviewer who rates with my heart. Did the book make me feel? Did the book make me forget it was a book and instead make me live the journey? In this case, most definitely yes and yes. My heart was put through the wringer at times and I felt all the emotions. If you read this book, and your heart doesn’t break at times well then you’re stone. Or at least a tougher person than me.
The bottom line:
An unpredictable emotional journey with a loveable main character that was a pleasure to read. Even if it broke my heart.
Who should read December Girl by Nicola Cassidy?
I’d recommend December Girl to you if you love historical fiction, emotional plotlines that tug at your heartstrings and strong vibrant characters. Fans of authors such as Hazel Gaynor, Evie Gaughan, Pamela Ford and Maeve Binchy might also enjoy.
Thanks to Nicola Cassidy for giving me a copy of this book for review consideration. As always, no matter what the source of the book, you get my honest, unbiased opinion.
Check out some of the other stops on this tour, to find out more about December Girl and Nicola Cassidy.
March 1, 2021
Exceptionally well written. We follow this December Girl through many ups and downs in her varied life.
The plot was rich. It was a genuine twisting story with surprises throughout. A topped with a strong solid ending.
The book was quirky, wacky, and most of the time, clever characters are fun. If you remember that this is a novel some of the crazy incidents are fun.
I recommend this book and I hope you will take time to read it as well
The plot was rich. It was a genuine twisting story with surprises throughout. A topped with a strong solid ending.
The book was quirky, wacky, and most of the time, clever characters are fun. If you remember that this is a novel some of the crazy incidents are fun.
I recommend this book and I hope you will take time to read it as well
July 21, 2020
4 stars Thanks to Book Siren for allowing to me to read this digital book.
Great book that just keeps you flipping pages...
There are three parallel stories going on in this book and although you might surmise the outcome at the end, it is the twists and turns and linking together that keeps you reading.
There is Molly, a poor girl from the streets, who has her baby stolen from his tram. There is Henry, regal and royal, once known to Molly as her landlord's son, who is soon to inherit all the forlorn trappings of his family's estate. And there is Grace, who rues the day she ever admitted to being pregnant.
I find that Cassidy has a steady hand and opulent mind when it comes to historical novels, having also read her book The Nanny at Number 43. My prior read is what drove me to read this curent book. I was not disappointed.
Great book that just keeps you flipping pages...
There are three parallel stories going on in this book and although you might surmise the outcome at the end, it is the twists and turns and linking together that keeps you reading.
There is Molly, a poor girl from the streets, who has her baby stolen from his tram. There is Henry, regal and royal, once known to Molly as her landlord's son, who is soon to inherit all the forlorn trappings of his family's estate. And there is Grace, who rues the day she ever admitted to being pregnant.
I find that Cassidy has a steady hand and opulent mind when it comes to historical novels, having also read her book The Nanny at Number 43. My prior read is what drove me to read this curent book. I was not disappointed.
October 22, 2017
December Girl is a saga of one young girls life who certainly doesn’t seem to have been dealt a good hand in life.
Molly has pretty much had a good upbringing. Sadly things change when her dad dies and her world is thrown in turmoil. I instantly connected with Molly. For one so young, she has a good head on her shoulders but due to circumstances she is forced to go down a path she could never have even imagined.
My favourite characters had to be Molly and Henry. Molly because of what she was going through and how she handles all that life throws at her. Henry, I could just imagine as a young Colin Firth. He has problems of his own to deal with and even though being from money, he isn’t pompous and really cares about people.
The story is set over so many years, taking us through every essential part of Molly’s life. It’s hard to go to much into detail due to the book description not giving much away and I don’t want to reveal anything I shouldn’t do. If you love books by writers such as Catherine Cookson though, you will love this book.
December Girl is an enthralling read that I didn’t want to put down. The authors descriptions of the settings and era was very much brought to life in my mind and I thoroughly enjoyed it. A story that had me hooked from start to finish and had me going through a whole array of emotions.
Can’t wait to read more by the author.
Molly has pretty much had a good upbringing. Sadly things change when her dad dies and her world is thrown in turmoil. I instantly connected with Molly. For one so young, she has a good head on her shoulders but due to circumstances she is forced to go down a path she could never have even imagined.
My favourite characters had to be Molly and Henry. Molly because of what she was going through and how she handles all that life throws at her. Henry, I could just imagine as a young Colin Firth. He has problems of his own to deal with and even though being from money, he isn’t pompous and really cares about people.
The story is set over so many years, taking us through every essential part of Molly’s life. It’s hard to go to much into detail due to the book description not giving much away and I don’t want to reveal anything I shouldn’t do. If you love books by writers such as Catherine Cookson though, you will love this book.
December Girl is an enthralling read that I didn’t want to put down. The authors descriptions of the settings and era was very much brought to life in my mind and I thoroughly enjoyed it. A story that had me hooked from start to finish and had me going through a whole array of emotions.
Can’t wait to read more by the author.
October 25, 2017
The opening passages of December Girl set the tone for this sumptuous historical drama, as it introduces the stones that come to play a huge part in the life of Molly Thomas, the December Girl of the title. When we first meet Molly, she is already struggling with things that have happened in her past so the loss of her baby son seems a cruel twist of fate to one who has suffered so much already. And the disappearance of baby Oliver is about to change Molly’s life forever.
After such a dramatic and “goosebump inducing” start to this book, I actually found myself a little lost as the author takes us back to the past, introducing characters and events that have shaped the woman who is Oliver’s mother. It wasn’t until Part II that things seemed to come together for me and I found myself so caught up in Molly’s life that I couldn’t let her go and so read the rest of the book in one emotionally draining session. I found myself moved far more than I had been expecting by the developments that occurred and I became almost obsessed with wanting to find out what was going to happen, whilst desperately hoping for the happy ever after that Molly deserved.
But what I loved more than anything about December Girl was that it surprised me. It didn’t follow the path I was expecting but instead twisted and turned, shocking me with certain events that happened so that I never knew which direction the drama would take next. I loved the sense of time and place the author brought to her gripping narrative but most of all I loved Molly. She was a woman ahead of her time with her quiet determination and courage in the face of all she endured. And I really couldn’t bear to let her go at the end.
This is a fabulous debut from natural storyteller Nicola Cassidy! She has obviously worked hard to develop the book she wanted to write with a cleverly crafted and well researched storyline. Highly recommended by me!
After such a dramatic and “goosebump inducing” start to this book, I actually found myself a little lost as the author takes us back to the past, introducing characters and events that have shaped the woman who is Oliver’s mother. It wasn’t until Part II that things seemed to come together for me and I found myself so caught up in Molly’s life that I couldn’t let her go and so read the rest of the book in one emotionally draining session. I found myself moved far more than I had been expecting by the developments that occurred and I became almost obsessed with wanting to find out what was going to happen, whilst desperately hoping for the happy ever after that Molly deserved.
But what I loved more than anything about December Girl was that it surprised me. It didn’t follow the path I was expecting but instead twisted and turned, shocking me with certain events that happened so that I never knew which direction the drama would take next. I loved the sense of time and place the author brought to her gripping narrative but most of all I loved Molly. She was a woman ahead of her time with her quiet determination and courage in the face of all she endured. And I really couldn’t bear to let her go at the end.
This is a fabulous debut from natural storyteller Nicola Cassidy! She has obviously worked hard to develop the book she wanted to write with a cleverly crafted and well researched storyline. Highly recommended by me!
November 5, 2017
Molly Thomas' world is turned upside down when the jealousy of a neighbour culminates in the arrest of her father, creating a series of tragic events that change Molly's life forever. As she begins to build a life for herself, the unthinkable happens - her baby is kidnapped. Can she ever find her son? And find happiness? Set between Ireland and England in the late 1800s/early 1900s, this is the story of a strong willed young woman and her struggle for survival and justice, revenge and happiness.
I really loved this book. It was sad, but it was worth reading. I thought about Molly for days afterwards. It's a well written debut, and has snippets of Irish history too - anyone particularly interested in Newgrange or similar might enjoy it.
Recommended.
I really loved this book. It was sad, but it was worth reading. I thought about Molly for days afterwards. It's a well written debut, and has snippets of Irish history too - anyone particularly interested in Newgrange or similar might enjoy it.
Recommended.
September 16, 2019
Great Historical Fiction
I read this author's second book, which I loved . This book was very good as well, but had hoped for a much more satisfying ending.
I read this author's second book, which I loved . This book was very good as well, but had hoped for a much more satisfying ending.
October 27, 2017
Molly Thomas loses more than her home, the night her family are evicted from their farmhouse in 1894. Her father is accused of stealing stones from the passage tomb at Dowth, Co.Meath, which originates back to approx. 3,200BC, but Molly knows that most of the local tenants had used the granite stones from Dowth and there a more sinister reason for their eviction.
The Thomas land is owned by the Brabazon family, who live in the nearby Brabazon House, a country mansion well known for hosting grand balls and hunting events. Henry Brabazon is a gentle soul (unlike his father) and dreams of studying criminal law in London, therefor escaping the expectations attached to being heir to the Brabazon title.
When Molly flees Ireland, after her father’s death, she is not to know that what she is running from is a lot less worse than what she is headed toward. Her life spirals out of control and she is not long becoming a victim of circumstance. Things go from bad to worse when her baby, Oliver, is taken from his pram outside a London shop and not one person has witnessed his kidnapping. Will Molly’s luck ever change, or is she cursed to suffer forever?
The novel begins with a prologue, describing the laying of the passage tomb, and then the disappearance of Oliver. The story then flicks back to the evection and introduces the Thomas family and their polar-opposites: the Brabazons.
When Molly escapes to London, via Liverpool, the narrative takes an even darker turn. The young woman is out of her depth and is preyed upon, almost instantaneously. Back at Brabazon House, Henry has his own problems: those of expectations and tradition. Then, the reader is introduced to Gladys and Albert, and a connected thread within the story. The tale continues in England and Ireland, right up until the War of Independence, and immediately afterward.
This is the debut title from Co. Louth native, Nicola Cassidy, who herself grew up in the Boyne Valley and knows the landscape of Dowth extremely well. She has taken the historic monument and used it as an anchor for her story. The saga is spread over almost five decades of turbulent Anglo-Irish relations yet only addresses the violent wars toward the end of the novel, which may be to appeal to the reader who is wanting more Downton Abbey than Rebellion. The structure is a little confusing at times, with the 1896 thread being somewhat lost in the flitting to-and-fro from other strands of the saga and there are chapter headings, for example: “Dowth, Co. Meath, Ireland, St Stephen’s Day. 1894, 10.20pm (Twenty Months Before)” which could have been simplified, ensuring a more fluid reading experience. But these are small editing issues, rather than any criticism of the writing or indeed the story.
December Girl is awash with historical detail about Drogheda and the surrounding countryside, even using nuggets of actual events. The linen industry is booming, the shipping port is a hive of activity and the streets are described with loving detail. Molly is a feminist, before her time and the reader is not treated to a sugar-coated view of her struggles as an independent woman. Far from it. Her story is dark and disturbing. Henry is an altogether lighter character, with a good heart and the benefit of a wealthy upbringing. Brabazon House sounds idyllic and typical of the Anglo-Irish country houses which still stand today. Nicola Cassidy is a name to watch out for. She has come a long way, in a relatively short period of time, and I am sure we have not heard (or read) the last of her yet.
The Thomas land is owned by the Brabazon family, who live in the nearby Brabazon House, a country mansion well known for hosting grand balls and hunting events. Henry Brabazon is a gentle soul (unlike his father) and dreams of studying criminal law in London, therefor escaping the expectations attached to being heir to the Brabazon title.
When Molly flees Ireland, after her father’s death, she is not to know that what she is running from is a lot less worse than what she is headed toward. Her life spirals out of control and she is not long becoming a victim of circumstance. Things go from bad to worse when her baby, Oliver, is taken from his pram outside a London shop and not one person has witnessed his kidnapping. Will Molly’s luck ever change, or is she cursed to suffer forever?
The novel begins with a prologue, describing the laying of the passage tomb, and then the disappearance of Oliver. The story then flicks back to the evection and introduces the Thomas family and their polar-opposites: the Brabazons.
When Molly escapes to London, via Liverpool, the narrative takes an even darker turn. The young woman is out of her depth and is preyed upon, almost instantaneously. Back at Brabazon House, Henry has his own problems: those of expectations and tradition. Then, the reader is introduced to Gladys and Albert, and a connected thread within the story. The tale continues in England and Ireland, right up until the War of Independence, and immediately afterward.
This is the debut title from Co. Louth native, Nicola Cassidy, who herself grew up in the Boyne Valley and knows the landscape of Dowth extremely well. She has taken the historic monument and used it as an anchor for her story. The saga is spread over almost five decades of turbulent Anglo-Irish relations yet only addresses the violent wars toward the end of the novel, which may be to appeal to the reader who is wanting more Downton Abbey than Rebellion. The structure is a little confusing at times, with the 1896 thread being somewhat lost in the flitting to-and-fro from other strands of the saga and there are chapter headings, for example: “Dowth, Co. Meath, Ireland, St Stephen’s Day. 1894, 10.20pm (Twenty Months Before)” which could have been simplified, ensuring a more fluid reading experience. But these are small editing issues, rather than any criticism of the writing or indeed the story.
December Girl is awash with historical detail about Drogheda and the surrounding countryside, even using nuggets of actual events. The linen industry is booming, the shipping port is a hive of activity and the streets are described with loving detail. Molly is a feminist, before her time and the reader is not treated to a sugar-coated view of her struggles as an independent woman. Far from it. Her story is dark and disturbing. Henry is an altogether lighter character, with a good heart and the benefit of a wealthy upbringing. Brabazon House sounds idyllic and typical of the Anglo-Irish country houses which still stand today. Nicola Cassidy is a name to watch out for. She has come a long way, in a relatively short period of time, and I am sure we have not heard (or read) the last of her yet.
November 3, 2017
‘What if your child was taken?’
Words that invoke terror in the mind of every parent….
Irish debut novelist, Nicola Cassidy, writes about Molly Thomas, ‘a feisty, independent soul' struggling to keep herself above water in anyway she can.
December Girl is Molly Thomas’s story.
The year is 1896. A young mother is in a shop queuing, with her baby beside her in his pram. She turns to pay. She looks back…
‘Empty. Oliver. Gone.
My baby! My baby’s gone!
I let the panic take over. There were screams now. I could hear them coming from my throat. I was wailing’
These are the words of Molly Thomas, a young girl from Ireland, alone on the streets of London. Almost two years earlier Molly lived with her family in Co. Meath as tenants of a local wealthy family. Molly loved her home and loved nothing more than feeling the wind in her hair as she climbed up Dowth mound, a ‘grassy Stone Age tomb that lay like an upside-down pudding bowl’ in her family’s sheep field. But one action caused a turning point in Molly’s young life forcing her down a very different and unexpected path.
Evicted from their home, Molly experiences anger like never before. Moved to a neighbour’s house and eventually into town, Molly misses the life she once had.
Over time Molly’s life completely unravels and she soon finds herself in London. Initially struggling with the cards dealt her, Molly wonders will she ever be able to see the daylight again….and then her baby is taken……
Now I have to admit that I was completely taken aback with the path this novel took. Once I got into it, I found it very difficult to put down. I was distraught. I was heartbroken. I was almost lighting a candle for Molly, in the hope it would assist her in some small way to overcome all the horrors placed in her path.
This is no light tale about a young girl’s exploits and disappointments in the late 19th century. December Girl is a story of love and heartbreak, of family and disappointments, of fear and courage. It is a story of a very brave young girl as she attempts to rise above the life given her. But each time she almost reaches the top, she is knocked back down.
December Girl is also a historical account of a time when the world was a changing place. Estates were being sold off and the tenants were able to live more comfortable lives. The power of the landowner was greatly reduced. Nicola Cassidy mentions the many Irish who fought alongside the English during the First World War, with the Irish Rebellion of 1916 also mentioned. It was quite interesting to see the impact of societal changes on the landlord as the estates begin to crumble. The ordinary folk begin to climb up and rightfully claim their own place in the world.
Nicola Cassidy based her novel on two historical occurrences, an actual eviction in Dowth in 1880 and a kidnapping of a child in Dublin during the 1960’s. With these ideas firmly planted in her head, Nicola expertly wound the two stories together creating this wonderful novel that quite literally broke my heart.
An incredible debut, I so look forward to what Nicola produces next. Can I just mention the cover? It is stunningly evocative in it’s simplicity. It is ghostly, it is moving, it is beautiful.
December Girl is out now and it’s definitely a book for all, whether you are a person who chooses historical fiction or not.
An emotional novel – poignant, distressing, heartrending and tragic…..yet compelling, engrossing and disturbingly real.
Words that invoke terror in the mind of every parent….
Irish debut novelist, Nicola Cassidy, writes about Molly Thomas, ‘a feisty, independent soul' struggling to keep herself above water in anyway she can.
December Girl is Molly Thomas’s story.
The year is 1896. A young mother is in a shop queuing, with her baby beside her in his pram. She turns to pay. She looks back…
‘Empty. Oliver. Gone.
My baby! My baby’s gone!
I let the panic take over. There were screams now. I could hear them coming from my throat. I was wailing’
These are the words of Molly Thomas, a young girl from Ireland, alone on the streets of London. Almost two years earlier Molly lived with her family in Co. Meath as tenants of a local wealthy family. Molly loved her home and loved nothing more than feeling the wind in her hair as she climbed up Dowth mound, a ‘grassy Stone Age tomb that lay like an upside-down pudding bowl’ in her family’s sheep field. But one action caused a turning point in Molly’s young life forcing her down a very different and unexpected path.
Evicted from their home, Molly experiences anger like never before. Moved to a neighbour’s house and eventually into town, Molly misses the life she once had.
Over time Molly’s life completely unravels and she soon finds herself in London. Initially struggling with the cards dealt her, Molly wonders will she ever be able to see the daylight again….and then her baby is taken……
Now I have to admit that I was completely taken aback with the path this novel took. Once I got into it, I found it very difficult to put down. I was distraught. I was heartbroken. I was almost lighting a candle for Molly, in the hope it would assist her in some small way to overcome all the horrors placed in her path.
This is no light tale about a young girl’s exploits and disappointments in the late 19th century. December Girl is a story of love and heartbreak, of family and disappointments, of fear and courage. It is a story of a very brave young girl as she attempts to rise above the life given her. But each time she almost reaches the top, she is knocked back down.
December Girl is also a historical account of a time when the world was a changing place. Estates were being sold off and the tenants were able to live more comfortable lives. The power of the landowner was greatly reduced. Nicola Cassidy mentions the many Irish who fought alongside the English during the First World War, with the Irish Rebellion of 1916 also mentioned. It was quite interesting to see the impact of societal changes on the landlord as the estates begin to crumble. The ordinary folk begin to climb up and rightfully claim their own place in the world.
Nicola Cassidy based her novel on two historical occurrences, an actual eviction in Dowth in 1880 and a kidnapping of a child in Dublin during the 1960’s. With these ideas firmly planted in her head, Nicola expertly wound the two stories together creating this wonderful novel that quite literally broke my heart.
An incredible debut, I so look forward to what Nicola produces next. Can I just mention the cover? It is stunningly evocative in it’s simplicity. It is ghostly, it is moving, it is beautiful.
December Girl is out now and it’s definitely a book for all, whether you are a person who chooses historical fiction or not.
An emotional novel – poignant, distressing, heartrending and tragic…..yet compelling, engrossing and disturbingly real.
November 1, 2017
DECEMBER GIRL by Nicola Cassidy is a powerful historical novel that emotionally battered me from all angles as I instantly got sucked into another time and place with gritty characters that will haunt me for a long time to come.
It is the 19th Century and Molly Thomas is her daddy's December girl but when greed and corruption find the Thomas family turfed onto the side of the road, it will have unbearable and long-standing consequences on Molly who longs for justice. Fast forward a few years and Molly is dealt another blow when her little baby is taken from his pram and simply vanishes into thin air. How can one woman survive the trauma and ordeals that she has suffered? But somehow she does, however, the dark horrors of her past are always there, waiting in the background, calling her name ...
DECEMBER GIRL by Nicola Cassidy is the perfect example of a stunning debut with exquisite attention to historical detail, characters that burrow into your heart and soul, and a plot that throws many unexpected twists along the way to take your breath away. This is not a nostalgic look back at a simpler time but a harrowing story that got under my skin and made me so emotional as I prayed, yes actually prayed, that Molly would find the peace that she deserved. The topics of family loyalty, corruption, power, and revenge are expertly handled as the story moves from different characters points of view and different years within the 19th Century.
I couldn't put DECEMBER GIRL down, yet I didn't want to reach the last page for fear of what it might hold, but this outstanding story of strength, courage, and that spark of Irish spirit that nobody can ever really explain makes this novel one of the best debuts I have ever read. I cannot wait to see what is next from Nicola Cassidy.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
It is the 19th Century and Molly Thomas is her daddy's December girl but when greed and corruption find the Thomas family turfed onto the side of the road, it will have unbearable and long-standing consequences on Molly who longs for justice. Fast forward a few years and Molly is dealt another blow when her little baby is taken from his pram and simply vanishes into thin air. How can one woman survive the trauma and ordeals that she has suffered? But somehow she does, however, the dark horrors of her past are always there, waiting in the background, calling her name ...
DECEMBER GIRL by Nicola Cassidy is the perfect example of a stunning debut with exquisite attention to historical detail, characters that burrow into your heart and soul, and a plot that throws many unexpected twists along the way to take your breath away. This is not a nostalgic look back at a simpler time but a harrowing story that got under my skin and made me so emotional as I prayed, yes actually prayed, that Molly would find the peace that she deserved. The topics of family loyalty, corruption, power, and revenge are expertly handled as the story moves from different characters points of view and different years within the 19th Century.
I couldn't put DECEMBER GIRL down, yet I didn't want to reach the last page for fear of what it might hold, but this outstanding story of strength, courage, and that spark of Irish spirit that nobody can ever really explain makes this novel one of the best debuts I have ever read. I cannot wait to see what is next from Nicola Cassidy.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
February 22, 2020
"December Girl", written by an exciting new voice in Historical and Women's Fiction; Ms. Nicola Cassidy, brings us the deeply moving and dark story of Molly Thomas, a young girl growing up at the turn of the century~ Ireland 1890's.
The story opens with the building of the Dowth Mound, a Neolithic passage tomb, with stones hand quarried and hand placed for the sacred time of the Winter Solstice. These stones call through time and bind young Molly, she was born on December 21st...the Winter Solstice to Ireland.
What we soon discover there are tragedies and secrets that Molly can't escape. With choices she made and others that were made for her, she tries running from mistakes that eventually catch up, sending the reader on a journey that leads to the hard streets of London and back with a heaviness like the stones from Dowth Mound.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you to BookSirens, Bombshell Books and the author Ms. Nicola Cassidy for the opportunity to read this Advanced Readers Copy of "December Girl". The opinions expressed in this review are mine alone.
The story opens with the building of the Dowth Mound, a Neolithic passage tomb, with stones hand quarried and hand placed for the sacred time of the Winter Solstice. These stones call through time and bind young Molly, she was born on December 21st...the Winter Solstice to Ireland.
What we soon discover there are tragedies and secrets that Molly can't escape. With choices she made and others that were made for her, she tries running from mistakes that eventually catch up, sending the reader on a journey that leads to the hard streets of London and back with a heaviness like the stones from Dowth Mound.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you to BookSirens, Bombshell Books and the author Ms. Nicola Cassidy for the opportunity to read this Advanced Readers Copy of "December Girl". The opinions expressed in this review are mine alone.
November 5, 2017
December Girl has to be one of the saddest stories I've ever read, but one which had me totally gripped.
The pain and devastation Molly endures during her life is just heart-breaking. When we first meet her she is a girl at home with her parents and younger brothers, about to be evicted from their home at Christmastime, by a selfish and uncaring landlord. There was a massive divide between the rich and poor in 1895, although I'm not sure if things are too much different these days in some cases.
The stress of the situation causes her beloved father to have a fatal heart-attack and their lives are changed for ever. Molly never gets over the death of her father and her life is more than difficult, especially when she makes the decision to avenge her fathers death, leaving her looking over her shoulder for the rest of her life.
The story is set between 1895 and 1921 and such a lot happens during these years, more than any one person should ever endure during their lifetime. There are some happy times, of course, but mostly an all consuming sadness which drew me to Molly, willing everything to turn out well for her.
I can't believe this is a debut. It's the most captivating, character driven story which is so beautifully written I could feel the emotion pouring off the page.
Many thanks to Bombshell Books for my ARC and to Nicola Cassidy for her most thoughtful gift.
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The pain and devastation Molly endures during her life is just heart-breaking. When we first meet her she is a girl at home with her parents and younger brothers, about to be evicted from their home at Christmastime, by a selfish and uncaring landlord. There was a massive divide between the rich and poor in 1895, although I'm not sure if things are too much different these days in some cases.
The stress of the situation causes her beloved father to have a fatal heart-attack and their lives are changed for ever. Molly never gets over the death of her father and her life is more than difficult, especially when she makes the decision to avenge her fathers death, leaving her looking over her shoulder for the rest of her life.
The story is set between 1895 and 1921 and such a lot happens during these years, more than any one person should ever endure during their lifetime. There are some happy times, of course, but mostly an all consuming sadness which drew me to Molly, willing everything to turn out well for her.
I can't believe this is a debut. It's the most captivating, character driven story which is so beautifully written I could feel the emotion pouring off the page.
Many thanks to Bombshell Books for my ARC and to Nicola Cassidy for her most thoughtful gift.
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November 11, 2017
This is a gritty historical tale of family, heartbreak and secrets set in Ireland and London. The author was inspired by The Boyne Valley area where she grew up and where she still lives. This is an area rich in history and elements of the novel are inspired by real locations and events. The heroine of the novel is Molly Thomas a smart and independent young woman who's life is changed forever when her family is evicted from their home. The loss of her home, her father and her way of life hits Molly hard and following a shocking betrayal she travels to London to start again, but thrust into London's dark underbelly she faces heartbreak once again as her baby boy is snatched from his pram.
The hero of the tale is Henry Brabazon; the landlord's son. Henry and Molly move in different circles, but Henry does not want to to emulate his entitled, spendthrift father; he too faces crisis and must make hard choices, but in Molly he sees a bright and feisty character, someone who could perhaps be a friend. A graceful blend of timelines, mysteries and fine storytelling, December Girl seamlessly straddles the territory between saga and historical mystery, making this a perfect choice for fans of historical fiction and mysteries alike.
I was lucky enough to be a beta reader for this novel while Nicola was writing it and to see and read it in it's finished form is a real thrill. I loved the story from the beginning and in particular the two main characters; each on their separate and difficult journeys as their paths cross again and again.
The hero of the tale is Henry Brabazon; the landlord's son. Henry and Molly move in different circles, but Henry does not want to to emulate his entitled, spendthrift father; he too faces crisis and must make hard choices, but in Molly he sees a bright and feisty character, someone who could perhaps be a friend. A graceful blend of timelines, mysteries and fine storytelling, December Girl seamlessly straddles the territory between saga and historical mystery, making this a perfect choice for fans of historical fiction and mysteries alike.
I was lucky enough to be a beta reader for this novel while Nicola was writing it and to see and read it in it's finished form is a real thrill. I loved the story from the beginning and in particular the two main characters; each on their separate and difficult journeys as their paths cross again and again.
January 25, 2021
I love historical fiction, but the more I read, the more picky I get as to what I personally like. Character development is everything to me in how I enjoy a book. I don't have to like specific characters but they have to come alive! This book, by writer Nicola Cassidy is a fabulous book that captures three main characters throughout their lives starting in the 1860's. From Ireland and London, rich, poor, so many tragedies that forever change a young girl heart and soul and go on to define her future. This emotionally gripping book was well written, and kept me engaged from start to finish. Certainly Ms. Cassidy is someone I will watch for in the future.
Thank you to Book Siren for a copy of this book for an honest review.
Thank you to Book Siren for a copy of this book for an honest review.
December 10, 2019
Written well and told a heartfelt story in Ireland
October 28, 2017
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What a fantastic book!! I was gripped straight from the off and didn't want to put it down at all, I needed to know what happened!! I thought that it was a great storyline and I thoroughly enjoyed the whole thing. Molly is a brilliant character and I really felt for her especially with the opening of the book and having a 15 week old baby myself. This was a brilliantly written book that hooked me and took me on a rollercoaster of a ride, at times I felt like my emotions were all over the place. Brilliant for a debut author - 4.5 stars from me, rounded up to 5 for Goodreads and Amazon!!
What a fantastic book!! I was gripped straight from the off and didn't want to put it down at all, I needed to know what happened!! I thought that it was a great storyline and I thoroughly enjoyed the whole thing. Molly is a brilliant character and I really felt for her especially with the opening of the book and having a 15 week old baby myself. This was a brilliantly written book that hooked me and took me on a rollercoaster of a ride, at times I felt like my emotions were all over the place. Brilliant for a debut author - 4.5 stars from me, rounded up to 5 for Goodreads and Amazon!!
August 2, 2018
Well this was a ride.
Full disclosure- this is not a happy book. It is heart wrenching and gritty and filled with so much despair it was hard to read at times, but at the same time, it was so, so worth it.
Historical novels are my favourite, and Cassidy really captures the feel for the time that just feels real in a way that many period pieces don't. The stakes feel real and not just a stepping stone to the happy ending, which I appreciated.
Right from the beginning you are thrust into Molly Thomas's life as it falls apart, forcing the reader to feel the same bewilderment and distress she does, and the opening leads to a pervading sense of dread as you know that everything will lead up to Molly losing her son, especially when you get that lightbulb moment and suddenly you know exactly where it's going. Honestly for me the real tragedy was that
With this story, Cassidy takes many risks through the characters she created and the paths they take, but what struck me was how she gets you to feel for them. No matter how much you disagree with the decisions Molly makes, you just ,keep rooting for her to get her happy ending. On the other hand, no matter how respectable and well to do Gladys seems, her chapters constantly fill you with unease once you know what she's doing, and I barely felt any sympathy for her at all.
I loved this book and will be buying a physical copy of it soon just so that I can have the satisfaction of turning the pages in agitation to find out what happens next.
Full disclosure- this is not a happy book. It is heart wrenching and gritty and filled with so much despair it was hard to read at times, but at the same time, it was so, so worth it.
Historical novels are my favourite, and Cassidy really captures the feel for the time that just feels real in a way that many period pieces don't. The stakes feel real and not just a stepping stone to the happy ending, which I appreciated.
Right from the beginning you are thrust into Molly Thomas's life as it falls apart, forcing the reader to feel the same bewilderment and distress she does, and the opening leads to a pervading sense of dread as you know that everything will lead up to Molly losing her son, especially when you get that lightbulb moment and suddenly you know exactly where it's going. Honestly for me the real tragedy was that
With this story, Cassidy takes many risks through the characters she created and the paths they take, but what struck me was how she gets you to feel for them. No matter how much you disagree with the decisions Molly makes, you just ,keep rooting for her to get her happy ending. On the other hand, no matter how respectable and well to do Gladys seems, her chapters constantly fill you with unease once you know what she's doing, and I barely felt any sympathy for her at all.
I loved this book and will be buying a physical copy of it soon just so that I can have the satisfaction of turning the pages in agitation to find out what happens next.
October 31, 2017
The cover of December Girl is hauntingly attractive and the tagline ‘What if your child was taken?’ was sufficient to lure me in. Nicola Cassidy is a new author to me and this is her debut novel. While I enjoy historical books set in/around the 1st and 2nd World Wars, I admit travelling back to the 1800’s was a tiny bit out of my comfort zone but I needn’t have worried. The beautiful writing and subject matter soon pulled me in and I became engrossed.
Set in Ireland, Molly is a character that will leave your emotions in ribbons. To say she has a difficult life is an understatement .. at times it feels as though the lull before the storm will enable her to overcome adversity and be triumphant, she certainly deserves an easier life than she has.
The attention to detail is addictive, at the time Molly was searching for baby Oliver I could barely breathe .. I was right there with her. This is a book of family heartache, revenge and so many moments of grief. At times it is hard going purely because you want to fast-forward and see the conclusion instead of feeling helpless as a by-stander.
A wonderful insight into the era, setting and Irish facts .. I look forward to what Nicola writes next, this is a phenomenal start.
My thanks to the author, publisher and Sarah Hardy at Bombshell Books for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Set in Ireland, Molly is a character that will leave your emotions in ribbons. To say she has a difficult life is an understatement .. at times it feels as though the lull before the storm will enable her to overcome adversity and be triumphant, she certainly deserves an easier life than she has.
The attention to detail is addictive, at the time Molly was searching for baby Oliver I could barely breathe .. I was right there with her. This is a book of family heartache, revenge and so many moments of grief. At times it is hard going purely because you want to fast-forward and see the conclusion instead of feeling helpless as a by-stander.
A wonderful insight into the era, setting and Irish facts .. I look forward to what Nicola writes next, this is a phenomenal start.
My thanks to the author, publisher and Sarah Hardy at Bombshell Books for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
November 12, 2017
4:5 stars An absolutely captivating read,
I had a slight concern going back in to the 1800, but the story fit so well in to the era, that I soon settled in to the story.
It is set in parts, which does help with the plot.
Nicola Cassidy, gave us a family saga with darkness, twists and heart breaking moments.
I invested in to Molly’s character and she was brought to life extremely well.
Wanting to follow her journey, which although not an easy path was eloquently written.
I loved being immersed into the lives, passing decades and just loved the grit, grimness, lives of those told.
It took me back to my teens, when all I read was Catherine Cookson.
Perfect for reading this time of year, I hope to read more by this author soon.
I had a slight concern going back in to the 1800, but the story fit so well in to the era, that I soon settled in to the story.
It is set in parts, which does help with the plot.
Nicola Cassidy, gave us a family saga with darkness, twists and heart breaking moments.
I invested in to Molly’s character and she was brought to life extremely well.
Wanting to follow her journey, which although not an easy path was eloquently written.
I loved being immersed into the lives, passing decades and just loved the grit, grimness, lives of those told.
It took me back to my teens, when all I read was Catherine Cookson.
Perfect for reading this time of year, I hope to read more by this author soon.
August 27, 2021
I received a free copy of this book from BookSirens. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When Molly Thomas is seventeen, her family is evicted from their home in rural Ireland. This sets in motion a series of events the puts Molly on a path to destruction and eventually leads to unspeakable tragedy. She swears vengeance on the landlord who stole their home, whom she also believes is responsible for the death of her father, but is Molly who finds herself a victim. Life is not kind to Molly after she leaves Dowth, and each time happiness seems within her grasp, tragedy sweeps it away. Later, when living in London, her infant son is stolen from his pram.
The story is less about the kidnapping and more about Molly herself. While it is told from the points of view of Molly, Henry Brabazon, the son of the man who owned Molly's home, and the woman who steals her son, the focus of the book is how Molly deals with the events that shape her life. The early 20th century was a difficult time to be a woman, with few choices available. These choices narrow even further if the woman finds herself outside the boundaries of respectability with a child to care for.
It would be easy to excuse some of Molly's choices. Especially the violent ones. So much of what happens to her, and the resulting grief, trauma, and depression, would explain the extremes of violence and explosive rage. So much is taken from her after her father's death, it seems merciful to absolve her of responsibility. After all, life is more complex than right and wrong.
I cant do that. Because even though Molly suffered abuse, trauma, heartbreak, and the vagaries of power, she had a choice in how she responded to these events. Limited choices, perhaps, but choices all the same. I believe her bouts of depression and struggle with overwhelming guilt shows she knew this, too.
There was only one way for her story to end, and it would not be a happy ending.
At times, I could not decide if I liked this book or not. It flashes backwards and forwards in time, revealing and then going back to explain what happened. I liked Molly in the beginning, felt heartbroken for her losses, but later I found her to be full of self pity and inertia. Her reaction to every obstacle seemed to be avoidance or violence. There were minor formatting errors, and places where words and letters were out of order or missing. There was also a chapter from the POV of Gladys, the kidnapper, when the child is suddenly four years old that seemed out of place in the sequence of events.
In the end, I decided I did like the book. It's a well-told story, even if it is a tragic one. Molly was a victim of circumstances as much as she was a victim of her own decisions. The fact that she suffered a great deal of guilt and remorse spoke to her character. I became invested in her story, hoping she would find happiness and love and be able to put the past behind her, and the story stayed with me after I turned the last page.
When Molly Thomas is seventeen, her family is evicted from their home in rural Ireland. This sets in motion a series of events the puts Molly on a path to destruction and eventually leads to unspeakable tragedy. She swears vengeance on the landlord who stole their home, whom she also believes is responsible for the death of her father, but is Molly who finds herself a victim. Life is not kind to Molly after she leaves Dowth, and each time happiness seems within her grasp, tragedy sweeps it away. Later, when living in London, her infant son is stolen from his pram.
The story is less about the kidnapping and more about Molly herself. While it is told from the points of view of Molly, Henry Brabazon, the son of the man who owned Molly's home, and the woman who steals her son, the focus of the book is how Molly deals with the events that shape her life. The early 20th century was a difficult time to be a woman, with few choices available. These choices narrow even further if the woman finds herself outside the boundaries of respectability with a child to care for.
It would be easy to excuse some of Molly's choices. Especially the violent ones. So much of what happens to her, and the resulting grief, trauma, and depression, would explain the extremes of violence and explosive rage. So much is taken from her after her father's death, it seems merciful to absolve her of responsibility. After all, life is more complex than right and wrong.
I cant do that. Because even though Molly suffered abuse, trauma, heartbreak, and the vagaries of power, she had a choice in how she responded to these events. Limited choices, perhaps, but choices all the same. I believe her bouts of depression and struggle with overwhelming guilt shows she knew this, too.
There was only one way for her story to end, and it would not be a happy ending.
At times, I could not decide if I liked this book or not. It flashes backwards and forwards in time, revealing and then going back to explain what happened. I liked Molly in the beginning, felt heartbroken for her losses, but later I found her to be full of self pity and inertia. Her reaction to every obstacle seemed to be avoidance or violence. There were minor formatting errors, and places where words and letters were out of order or missing. There was also a chapter from the POV of Gladys, the kidnapper, when the child is suddenly four years old that seemed out of place in the sequence of events.
In the end, I decided I did like the book. It's a well-told story, even if it is a tragic one. Molly was a victim of circumstances as much as she was a victim of her own decisions. The fact that she suffered a great deal of guilt and remorse spoke to her character. I became invested in her story, hoping she would find happiness and love and be able to put the past behind her, and the story stayed with me after I turned the last page.
November 15, 2020
Molly Thomas has no idea what tragic events are about to unfold in her life when she is living peacefully on a farm in Ireland with her parents and two brothers. Following the deceptive manipulations of a land agent, her family is evicted, quickly followed by the death of her beloved father. Her mother is forced by her homeless situation to marry a self-important, vicious man who proves to be Molly's worst nightmare. Parallel to Molly's unfortunate circumstances, are the stories of Henry, the heir to his father's fortune and title, and Gladys, whose desire to have a child pushes her to extreme measures. Their lives eventually merge in unexpected and tragic ways. Molly’s long-held deep secrets about her past when she did everything possible to survive haunt her throughout her life.
This is an engaging novel. The author is an excellent story teller. There are heartbreaking passages and there are events that make Molly’s future seem hopeful. The timeline does shift, often precipitously, so close attention is required to fully understand the circumstances and trajectory of the story.
This is an engaging novel. The author is an excellent story teller. There are heartbreaking passages and there are events that make Molly’s future seem hopeful. The timeline does shift, often precipitously, so close attention is required to fully understand the circumstances and trajectory of the story.
February 3, 2020
I received a free copy of this book from booksirens in exchange for an honest review.
This is a dark, sad book. It's full of heartache, and when Molly is searching for her baby my heart goes out to her. There was just something that kept me from fully connecting with the story. Given the events that occured, and the ending, I should have been crying (I'm one of those people that cry over anything sad or emotionally moving, but reading this I did not feel that familiar prickle in my eyes. I think it may have been the structure of the story-- it was a tad confusing at first, jumping back and forth in time. However, once I realized that the date on the chapter heading did not necessarily correlate to the events in the chapter, it got easier to follow.
The scene with the Russian dolls, and the scenes at the end, were truly heartbreaking.
This is a dark, sad book. It's full of heartache, and when Molly is searching for her baby my heart goes out to her. There was just something that kept me from fully connecting with the story. Given the events that occured, and the ending, I should have been crying (I'm one of those people that cry over anything sad or emotionally moving, but reading this I did not feel that familiar prickle in my eyes. I think it may have been the structure of the story-- it was a tad confusing at first, jumping back and forth in time. However, once I realized that the date on the chapter heading did not necessarily correlate to the events in the chapter, it got easier to follow.
The scene with the Russian dolls, and the scenes at the end, were truly heartbreaking.
December 12, 2017
I gave this book a 3.5 stars, but rounded it up to 4-stars for the goodreads review. It's better than a 3-star, but not quite deserving of a 4-star, but here are my definitions of star ratings:
3 Stars – It wasn’t bad; a harmless and easy read. Some inconsistencies in the story’s characters or plot, but I got what the author was trying to say. Nevertheless, I won’t be rushing out to get this writer’s next book, and will gladly donate my copy to the local library or charity shop.
4 Stars – This was a very good book! I completely enjoyed it. The characters were well developed, and believable. The story was interesting and captivating. Yeah, I’d recommend this book.
___________
The writing style in 'December Girl' was very good; impressive prose for this author's first novel. The author kept to the same voice throughout the story, which made for easy reading. The story flips through different scenes, different characters, and different times. And with this, the reader gets to know each character very well. Sometimes the flipping and changing to different events and time periods was confusing and awkward, but it worked out in the end.
It was a bit confusing as to the significance of Dowth, the Winter Solstice, and the story of Molly; the only connection being that she was born and buried on December 21st. I feel the story would have stood well without the reference to Dowth. The added layer of a December 21st born child wasn't necessarily visited throughout the story, only via the Prologue and Epilogue, and reader is to assume that such a significant date of birth gave the main character, Molly, added spirit and fire in her personality & temperament that she might not have possessed if she was born on any other day.
The story carries on at a nice pace, weaving a tale that is held together by the weaknesses and desperation of its characters for survival during the late 1800's / early 1900's in Ireland and England. The story is one of misery, and the reader does wonder if things will ever go right for Molly. However, towards the latter part of the story, the author picks up the pace rather quickly, and we feel as if we've been on a steady, easy horse ride all along, and are now galloping and racing towards the finish line. This leaves the reader feeling that maybe the author just wanted to get this story finished. Molly gives birth to two babies in the space of 5-pages; loses her young son to the 1916 Easter Rising war, kills herself, and her long lost first son born from the rape by her step-father years ago, emerges to find his mother, and lands at the doorstep of the Brabazon estate. This all happens quickly, but on one hand, I feel that Molly needed some resolution, even if it was found in death, so was happy that things were wound up rather quickly. But on the other hand, I was sad to have the story end so suddenly, and wonder if there is going to be a follow-on piece of work about this family, and their legacy.
Overall, a well written book with a beautiful language and writing style. The characters are made vivid not only by their description, but by their actions, and the reader gets to know them well through carefully scripted and beautiful prose. A very good start for this young Irish writer's first novel, and she shows to be a very promising novelist, and one to watch out for. I look forward to reading her next piece of work. I would recommend 'December Girl' as a good read.
3 Stars – It wasn’t bad; a harmless and easy read. Some inconsistencies in the story’s characters or plot, but I got what the author was trying to say. Nevertheless, I won’t be rushing out to get this writer’s next book, and will gladly donate my copy to the local library or charity shop.
4 Stars – This was a very good book! I completely enjoyed it. The characters were well developed, and believable. The story was interesting and captivating. Yeah, I’d recommend this book.
___________
The writing style in 'December Girl' was very good; impressive prose for this author's first novel. The author kept to the same voice throughout the story, which made for easy reading. The story flips through different scenes, different characters, and different times. And with this, the reader gets to know each character very well. Sometimes the flipping and changing to different events and time periods was confusing and awkward, but it worked out in the end.
It was a bit confusing as to the significance of Dowth, the Winter Solstice, and the story of Molly; the only connection being that she was born and buried on December 21st. I feel the story would have stood well without the reference to Dowth. The added layer of a December 21st born child wasn't necessarily visited throughout the story, only via the Prologue and Epilogue, and reader is to assume that such a significant date of birth gave the main character, Molly, added spirit and fire in her personality & temperament that she might not have possessed if she was born on any other day.
The story carries on at a nice pace, weaving a tale that is held together by the weaknesses and desperation of its characters for survival during the late 1800's / early 1900's in Ireland and England. The story is one of misery, and the reader does wonder if things will ever go right for Molly. However, towards the latter part of the story, the author picks up the pace rather quickly, and we feel as if we've been on a steady, easy horse ride all along, and are now galloping and racing towards the finish line. This leaves the reader feeling that maybe the author just wanted to get this story finished. Molly gives birth to two babies in the space of 5-pages; loses her young son to the 1916 Easter Rising war, kills herself, and her long lost first son born from the rape by her step-father years ago, emerges to find his mother, and lands at the doorstep of the Brabazon estate. This all happens quickly, but on one hand, I feel that Molly needed some resolution, even if it was found in death, so was happy that things were wound up rather quickly. But on the other hand, I was sad to have the story end so suddenly, and wonder if there is going to be a follow-on piece of work about this family, and their legacy.
Overall, a well written book with a beautiful language and writing style. The characters are made vivid not only by their description, but by their actions, and the reader gets to know them well through carefully scripted and beautiful prose. A very good start for this young Irish writer's first novel, and she shows to be a very promising novelist, and one to watch out for. I look forward to reading her next piece of work. I would recommend 'December Girl' as a good read.
December 20, 2017
Review first published here: https://joyfulantidotes.com/2018/01/1...
In a nutshell, December Girl by Nicola Cassidy is a tale of family bonds, love, revenge and murder. Set in the late 1800s, it centres around the young and feisty Molly Thomas. Molly’s life is full of troubles, beginning with the eviction of her family from their home, which she vows to seek vengeance for, to the kidnapping of her baby son from his pram.
I love historical fiction and was really excited to be offered a copy of December Girl by Nicola. I wasn’t disappointed and can only praise the author for how great this book was. Based on real events, it was well researched and very reflective of the time. It actually reminded me a lot of Lesley Pearce who does these types of books wonderfully.
The book is very well written overall but I have to admit that part one was slow to move for my taste and didn’t intrigue me much. I think this was because in part one, and actually some other parts of the book as well, we get an explanation of how the events of the book which we already know from the blurb occurred. So, nothing really new happens. However, when Cassidy starts throwing in the twists and turns of the story later on, she really starts to shine. All of a sudden I couldn’t put the book down and one morning Christmas week I found myself getting up at 7am just so I could find out what happens.
I liked the character of Molly but not because I related to her or anything like that but because she evoked different types of emotions and thoughts in me that I usually don’t get with the protagonist of a book. Considering all that happened to Molly throughout the course of December Girl, I really thought that I would be cheering her on but I found her rather hard to like or be sympathetic towards. A lot of the time I found myself instead pondering whether or not she was really strong or really silly. I liked that as I have recently realised I don’t need to find a character likable or relatable to enjoy them. The rest of the characters in the book I found rather minor but they served their purpose well. Although, I must say that I would like to know more about Gladys as I think she could make a good book in her own right.
Overall, I am very, very satisfied with this book. Any other historical fiction fans out there, do yourself a favour and go pick up a copy.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In a nutshell, December Girl by Nicola Cassidy is a tale of family bonds, love, revenge and murder. Set in the late 1800s, it centres around the young and feisty Molly Thomas. Molly’s life is full of troubles, beginning with the eviction of her family from their home, which she vows to seek vengeance for, to the kidnapping of her baby son from his pram.
I love historical fiction and was really excited to be offered a copy of December Girl by Nicola. I wasn’t disappointed and can only praise the author for how great this book was. Based on real events, it was well researched and very reflective of the time. It actually reminded me a lot of Lesley Pearce who does these types of books wonderfully.
The book is very well written overall but I have to admit that part one was slow to move for my taste and didn’t intrigue me much. I think this was because in part one, and actually some other parts of the book as well, we get an explanation of how the events of the book which we already know from the blurb occurred. So, nothing really new happens. However, when Cassidy starts throwing in the twists and turns of the story later on, she really starts to shine. All of a sudden I couldn’t put the book down and one morning Christmas week I found myself getting up at 7am just so I could find out what happens.
I liked the character of Molly but not because I related to her or anything like that but because she evoked different types of emotions and thoughts in me that I usually don’t get with the protagonist of a book. Considering all that happened to Molly throughout the course of December Girl, I really thought that I would be cheering her on but I found her rather hard to like or be sympathetic towards. A lot of the time I found myself instead pondering whether or not she was really strong or really silly. I liked that as I have recently realised I don’t need to find a character likable or relatable to enjoy them. The rest of the characters in the book I found rather minor but they served their purpose well. Although, I must say that I would like to know more about Gladys as I think she could make a good book in her own right.
Overall, I am very, very satisfied with this book. Any other historical fiction fans out there, do yourself a favour and go pick up a copy.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2017
4.5 rounding up to 5
An absolute delight. It is a long time since I've read historical fiction - or any other genre - as absorbing and immersive as this debut novel from Nicola Cassidy.
The story is set in Drogheda in the late nineteenth century and follows the tragic story of Molly Thomas, whose family is evicted from their homestead at the whim of an unscrupulous land agent. This catastrophic event sets in motion a narrative that sets Molly down a path that will lead her to a London whorehouse and later a missing baby. (The scene where her baby vanishes is the story's opener, and it's truly heart-in-mouth stuff)
Parallel to this story is that of the land agent's boss, Henry Brabazon, the resident Ascendancy toff inheriting the ancestral pile. Henry and Molly's lives are to intersect again and again (including in said whorehouse) as he battles to save his estate.
The exquisiteness is in the detail. In one of the crucial scenes, when Molly is summoned to her stepfather's shed, she paints Russian dolls - later her blood is described as the same colour as the paint. The narrative style is also complex, flashing back from events, which is very well done. I just love the writing here, its felicitious dashes of detail, and immersion, seemingly effortless, in the time period. The Drogheda Regatta, the endless, unclearable "slate" used by the brothel madam in London to keep her workers close, every nook explored by the narrative is well and subtly researched. The emotional stakes are high and it is a pure roller-coaster ride. If, in the final section, Cassidy might have put her foot on the accelerator a bit and rushed past scenes and decades, she has earned the reader's curiosity about what happens to Molly, Henry - and Oliver.
There are the occasional copy-editing slips such as misplaced commas that should have been caught. Also I don't see the need for the prologue and epilogue, but that is just a personal preference. But for all that, I would like to use a term Tara Sparling created - this novel is *book heroin*. I inhaled it from start to finish. If this is a sign of things to come, then Nicola Cassidy is an exciting new talent and I cannot wait to read more of her work. Brava, wonderful!
An absolute delight. It is a long time since I've read historical fiction - or any other genre - as absorbing and immersive as this debut novel from Nicola Cassidy.
The story is set in Drogheda in the late nineteenth century and follows the tragic story of Molly Thomas, whose family is evicted from their homestead at the whim of an unscrupulous land agent. This catastrophic event sets in motion a narrative that sets Molly down a path that will lead her to a London whorehouse and later a missing baby. (The scene where her baby vanishes is the story's opener, and it's truly heart-in-mouth stuff)
Parallel to this story is that of the land agent's boss, Henry Brabazon, the resident Ascendancy toff inheriting the ancestral pile. Henry and Molly's lives are to intersect again and again (including in said whorehouse) as he battles to save his estate.
The exquisiteness is in the detail. In one of the crucial scenes, when Molly is summoned to her stepfather's shed, she paints Russian dolls - later her blood is described as the same colour as the paint. The narrative style is also complex, flashing back from events, which is very well done. I just love the writing here, its felicitious dashes of detail, and immersion, seemingly effortless, in the time period. The Drogheda Regatta, the endless, unclearable "slate" used by the brothel madam in London to keep her workers close, every nook explored by the narrative is well and subtly researched. The emotional stakes are high and it is a pure roller-coaster ride. If, in the final section, Cassidy might have put her foot on the accelerator a bit and rushed past scenes and decades, she has earned the reader's curiosity about what happens to Molly, Henry - and Oliver.
There are the occasional copy-editing slips such as misplaced commas that should have been caught. Also I don't see the need for the prologue and epilogue, but that is just a personal preference. But for all that, I would like to use a term Tara Sparling created - this novel is *book heroin*. I inhaled it from start to finish. If this is a sign of things to come, then Nicola Cassidy is an exciting new talent and I cannot wait to read more of her work. Brava, wonderful!
November 4, 2017
4.5/5
Molly Thomas is a feisty, independent soul, born on the Winter Solstice. At every stage of her life she has faced troubles. As a young woman her family are evicted from their home at Christmas. Molly swears vengeance on the jealous neighbour and land agent responsible, Flann Montgomery. Then in 1896 her baby son is taken from his pram. Molly searches the streets for Oliver. The police are called but her baby is gone. Why does trouble seem to follow Molly? And will she ever find out what happened to her child?
Well, what can I say about December Girl only that I didn't like it, I absolutely LOVED it. It was brilliant and I cannot believe that this is Nicola's debut novel, it was written so well and with such emotion. December Girl is a tale of family bonds, love, revenge and murder. It is a historical fiction novel set in Ireland in the 19th Century, mainly in Drogheda where I live so I had a good feel for the locations here that were used in the novel and part of it is also in London. There are multiple back stories intertwined throughout December Girl which works so well and it all comes together to make this novel just perfect. For me it was such an emotionally charged read as so much happens to Molly from almost the start of the novel and then when you think that everything's going to be ok, something else is thrown into the mix and you're plunged back to thinking, is she ever going to catch a break!? I don't want to say anymore about this as I don't want to give too much away other than go and pick up a copy of December Girl in your local bookshop or on Kindle and snuggle up on the couch with this and definitely some chocolate (as you're going to need it). I HIGHLY recommend December Girl and I'd even go as far as to say it'd definitely be in my top reads of 2017.
I'm really looking forward to seeing what Nicola's next novel will have in store but no pressure at all.
Molly Thomas is a feisty, independent soul, born on the Winter Solstice. At every stage of her life she has faced troubles. As a young woman her family are evicted from their home at Christmas. Molly swears vengeance on the jealous neighbour and land agent responsible, Flann Montgomery. Then in 1896 her baby son is taken from his pram. Molly searches the streets for Oliver. The police are called but her baby is gone. Why does trouble seem to follow Molly? And will she ever find out what happened to her child?
Well, what can I say about December Girl only that I didn't like it, I absolutely LOVED it. It was brilliant and I cannot believe that this is Nicola's debut novel, it was written so well and with such emotion. December Girl is a tale of family bonds, love, revenge and murder. It is a historical fiction novel set in Ireland in the 19th Century, mainly in Drogheda where I live so I had a good feel for the locations here that were used in the novel and part of it is also in London. There are multiple back stories intertwined throughout December Girl which works so well and it all comes together to make this novel just perfect. For me it was such an emotionally charged read as so much happens to Molly from almost the start of the novel and then when you think that everything's going to be ok, something else is thrown into the mix and you're plunged back to thinking, is she ever going to catch a break!? I don't want to say anymore about this as I don't want to give too much away other than go and pick up a copy of December Girl in your local bookshop or on Kindle and snuggle up on the couch with this and definitely some chocolate (as you're going to need it). I HIGHLY recommend December Girl and I'd even go as far as to say it'd definitely be in my top reads of 2017.
I'm really looking forward to seeing what Nicola's next novel will have in store but no pressure at all.
November 7, 2017
I was going to give this book 4 stars. I was trying to decide what I would change and what I disliked to warrant only 4 stars but being completely honest the answer was nothing. Nothing I would change. This book was fantastic. So it had to be 5 stars.
Now don't get me wrong. I didn't like or enjoy this book, it's not that kind of book. It is certainly not a romance with a lovey dovey happy ending. Far from it. This book is heartbreaking. It is full of darkness and sadness and it doesn't even have a happy ending. Completely different to what I normally read then. Somehow though this book had me feeling all the emotions.
From the first chapter I was hooked. A little boy goes missing and as a mother myself my heart was in my mouth. The book then tells the story of the events leading up to the missing boy and afterwards. The only thing I had issue with was it took me a little while to get used to the different time changes but after a few chapters I soon adjusted and could easily tell what happened when. Alot happens in this book, it's never boring. As soon as you pick it up you lose yourself and are at the edge of your seat the entire time. Eventually when you do put it down, it stays with you, you find yourself going over the things you read and longing to pick it back up so you can find out what happens and where the story takes you next.
I do feel this book may be hard for some people to read as it could contain triggers, I am pretty ok with most things but part of this was difficult for me and I did have to step away for a short time to breathe.
I thought this was a fantastic read and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to try something abit different to romance. I definitely want to read more by Nicola Cassidy.
Now don't get me wrong. I didn't like or enjoy this book, it's not that kind of book. It is certainly not a romance with a lovey dovey happy ending. Far from it. This book is heartbreaking. It is full of darkness and sadness and it doesn't even have a happy ending. Completely different to what I normally read then. Somehow though this book had me feeling all the emotions.
From the first chapter I was hooked. A little boy goes missing and as a mother myself my heart was in my mouth. The book then tells the story of the events leading up to the missing boy and afterwards. The only thing I had issue with was it took me a little while to get used to the different time changes but after a few chapters I soon adjusted and could easily tell what happened when. Alot happens in this book, it's never boring. As soon as you pick it up you lose yourself and are at the edge of your seat the entire time. Eventually when you do put it down, it stays with you, you find yourself going over the things you read and longing to pick it back up so you can find out what happens and where the story takes you next.
I do feel this book may be hard for some people to read as it could contain triggers, I am pretty ok with most things but part of this was difficult for me and I did have to step away for a short time to breathe.
I thought this was a fantastic read and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to try something abit different to romance. I definitely want to read more by Nicola Cassidy.
October 28, 2017
Check out my full review here:
https://confessionsofabookgeek.com/20...
December Girl is Cassidy’s debut novel, and it’s a corker. Well written, with a feisty but lovable female lead, this historical novel tells a sad, and at times quite dark tale, that is an emotional roller-coaster from start to finish. It’s a much more complex read than I was expecting, and what started out as a historical mystery quickly turned into something much more sinister and intense.
There are some revelations and heart-breaking surprises in this story that I definitely didn’t see coming, and all the while I wished for Molly’s Happy Ever After. You’ll have to read the book to find out what happens to her.
The Rating
3.5/5
https://confessionsofabookgeek.com/20...
December Girl is Cassidy’s debut novel, and it’s a corker. Well written, with a feisty but lovable female lead, this historical novel tells a sad, and at times quite dark tale, that is an emotional roller-coaster from start to finish. It’s a much more complex read than I was expecting, and what started out as a historical mystery quickly turned into something much more sinister and intense.
There are some revelations and heart-breaking surprises in this story that I definitely didn’t see coming, and all the while I wished for Molly’s Happy Ever After. You’ll have to read the book to find out what happens to her.
The Rating
3.5/5
January 26, 2018
Beautiful writing. Nicola Cassidy somehow manages to maintain her lead character's likeability through a plot that leads her to sometimes terrible acts. Molly's edge is apparent from the start, making her a compelling character to follow. The descriptions of time and setting are wonderfully handled, bringing forth the scenes with just the right amount of detail.
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