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Quaker Trilogy #1
No Shame, No Fear
A young Quaker girl and the son of a wealthy merchant face intolerance and persecution in this gripping historical novel that evokes the passion and idealism of young love.
"Don't cry. We won't be parted. I promise."
It is 1662, and England is reeling from the aftereffects of civil war, with its clashes of faith and culture. Susanna, a young Quaker girl, leaves her family to become a servant in town. Seventeen-year-old Will returns home after completing his studies to begin an apprenticeship arranged by his wealthy father. Susanna and Will meet and fall in love, but can their bond survive — no matter what? Theirs is a story that speaks across the centuries, telling of love and the fight to stay true to what is most important, in spite of parents, society, and even the law.
"Don't cry. We won't be parted. I promise."
It is 1662, and England is reeling from the aftereffects of civil war, with its clashes of faith and culture. Susanna, a young Quaker girl, leaves her family to become a servant in town. Seventeen-year-old Will returns home after completing his studies to begin an apprenticeship arranged by his wealthy father. Susanna and Will meet and fall in love, but can their bond survive — no matter what? Theirs is a story that speaks across the centuries, telling of love and the fight to stay true to what is most important, in spite of parents, society, and even the law.
293 pages, Paperback
First published November 3, 2003
16 people are currently reading
1408 people want to read
About the author
Ann Turnbull
75 books44 followersAnn Turnbull is an English author of numerous books for young readers, including No Shame, No Fear and Forged in the Fire. She was born in Hertford, was brought up in southeast London, and now lives in Shropshire, England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
July 20, 2016
After seeing this in the Friends House bookshop, and in Meeting House libraries, for years I finally decided to borrow it from my Meeting House library. I'm looking forward to reading Forged in the Fire, the next book in the series, which I can also borrow from the MH library. I was also pleased to discover that there's a 3rd book in the series due out next month. Serendipity.
I believe this is the 1662 law mentioned in the book, if you wish to read it: http://www.british-history.ac.uk/repo... If you search the same site for 'quaker 1662' you also come up with a lot of other historical references and reports that may be of interest.
I found it to be a good blend of fictional story and Quaker history, although I would like to know more about Quakers in Shropshire in the 1660s (1662 being a mere 10 years after the 'official' founding of Quakerism). I wasn't quite convinced by the fact that they met in a public room in an ale-house, as most Quakers of that time were still meeting in private houses, fields, or barns (such as how the Eaton Bellamy Meeting is described), but I guess this was used as a storytelling device so that their Meetings could be broken up more publicly and forcibly (and therefore more dramatically). Nor was I sure that there would have been quite so many Quakers in the area at that time, but I have no knowledge of Quaker history in Shropshire for that time so I trust the author did her research.
There was lots of Quaker history to like though. The mention of Elders (which did exist then, although not in a formalised way as they do now), the descriptions of plain speech and dress, and the wonderful explanations of hat customs and oath taking. Overall I thought the Quaker aspect was well researched and well presented.
Looking forward to the next book. This has also made me keen to track down more fiction featuring Quakers to read. I'll have to see what else I can find in Meeting House libraries!
I believe this is the 1662 law mentioned in the book, if you wish to read it: http://www.british-history.ac.uk/repo... If you search the same site for 'quaker 1662' you also come up with a lot of other historical references and reports that may be of interest.
I found it to be a good blend of fictional story and Quaker history, although I would like to know more about Quakers in Shropshire in the 1660s (1662 being a mere 10 years after the 'official' founding of Quakerism). I wasn't quite convinced by the fact that they met in a public room in an ale-house, as most Quakers of that time were still meeting in private houses, fields, or barns (such as how the Eaton Bellamy Meeting is described), but I guess this was used as a storytelling device so that their Meetings could be broken up more publicly and forcibly (and therefore more dramatically). Nor was I sure that there would have been quite so many Quakers in the area at that time, but I have no knowledge of Quaker history in Shropshire for that time so I trust the author did her research.
There was lots of Quaker history to like though. The mention of Elders (which did exist then, although not in a formalised way as they do now), the descriptions of plain speech and dress, and the wonderful explanations of hat customs and oath taking. Overall I thought the Quaker aspect was well researched and well presented.
Looking forward to the next book. This has also made me keen to track down more fiction featuring Quakers to read. I'll have to see what else I can find in Meeting House libraries!
March 25, 2008
"He's not for thee," Susanna Thorn's mother tells her after she looks back at the handsome young man who made sure little Deb was unhurt after a fall on the road. But Susanna cannot keep his kind action and pleasing countenance from her head, even though he is clearly not a Friend. And William's thoughts, as it turns out, keep turning to the fascinating, pretty maid whose gaze lingers with him still, though she is a Quaker. What a surprise for both Will and Susanna when they happen upon each other again at a Quaker meeting at the Seven Stars, an alehouse in Hemsbury. The bookshop where Su has begun work makes for a convenient meeting place, and the two fall quickly and deeply in love. But troubles arise in the town--new laws are passed which make it illegal for Quakers to meet, and prejudice against Susanna's faith grows stronger. Meanwhile, Will's father, a wealthy merchant, is much against his son finally showing his long-time interest in a different faith. With such strains added to William and Su's relationship, will the words Susanna's mother spoke be proven true or utterly wrong?
The issues of family, faith, and feelings that this exceptionally engaging book deal with make this love story one that can be enjoyed for the good writing and depth alone. Find out of if true love really does exist for Susanna and William in Forged in the Fire.
The issues of family, faith, and feelings that this exceptionally engaging book deal with make this love story one that can be enjoyed for the good writing and depth alone. Find out of if true love really does exist for Susanna and William in Forged in the Fire.
November 13, 2023
Excellent young adult story about falling in love and finding faith in the context of the Quaker movement in seventeenth century England. Seems generally historically accurate and is very engaging written. (Note for my research: does not name drop Fox or other famous Friends of the period.)
April 21, 2009
England, 1662, at the beginning of the Quaker prosecution. 15-year-old Susanna Thorn decides she’s old enough to get a job in town in order to support her Quaker family. 17-year-old William has just returned from Oxford, and his rags-to-riches father is encouraging him to be apprenticed to a good connection in London. Their paths cross accidentally one day in the middle of the road, and their lives are changed forever.
William finds himself inexplicably drawn to Susanna and her Quaker tradition. He begins to attend these illegal Quaker gatherings with the full knowledge that if his father finds out he will have a heart attack and probably disown his only son. Meanwhile, the prosecution of the Quakers is hitting Susanna hard, hurting those she loves, and she fears for her beloved William’s life.
William and Susanna’s relationship is a love that by all means should not occur, and yet with true love, they just might be able to make it out alright. Their story is sweet and full of the tense detail of excellent historical fiction. Anyone who likes historical fiction and a good love story should read this book.
William finds himself inexplicably drawn to Susanna and her Quaker tradition. He begins to attend these illegal Quaker gatherings with the full knowledge that if his father finds out he will have a heart attack and probably disown his only son. Meanwhile, the prosecution of the Quakers is hitting Susanna hard, hurting those she loves, and she fears for her beloved William’s life.
William and Susanna’s relationship is a love that by all means should not occur, and yet with true love, they just might be able to make it out alright. Their story is sweet and full of the tense detail of excellent historical fiction. Anyone who likes historical fiction and a good love story should read this book.
February 3, 2011
The narrative is told from the perspective of Susana, a young Quaker girl who moves to the city to find work and falls in love with the son of a rich merchant. The story takes place in England during the time when the Quakers were persecuted since they were regarded as heretics.
It is an interesting plot which presents good examples of courage and standing up for what you believe in.
However, as the love story between Susana and William progresses a lot of emphasis is put on the physical aspect of their relationship. Maybe they don't go all the way, but there are a couple of scenes that are too descriptive for the young audience the book targets.
It is an interesting plot which presents good examples of courage and standing up for what you believe in.
However, as the love story between Susana and William progresses a lot of emphasis is put on the physical aspect of their relationship. Maybe they don't go all the way, but there are a couple of scenes that are too descriptive for the young audience the book targets.
June 8, 2025
“A book you loved as a child” completed for my summer reading challenge! I first read this book in middle school and begged the school librarian to get the sequel. Rereading now, having lived more than twice as much life as I had the first time, our main characters seem impossibly young to be dealing with all of the issues they’re facing. Will and Su’s story of young love in the face of religious persecution still holds up all of these years later.
March 1, 2010
England in 1662 is a country struggling with the aftermath of a civil war. Susanna is a fifteen-year-old Quaker girl who has left her country home to become a servant in the city. Seventeen-year-old Will, who comes from a wealthy family, has finished his studies and has now come to the same city as Susanna to begin his apprenticeship. When Will and Susanna meet, they fall in love. But they are of completely different social classes and religions, and there are many obstacles standing in their way. Meanwhile, persecution of the Quakers is increasing, and Susanna begins to fear for her safety and that of her friends and family. Can Will and Susanna find a way to be together, or will they be kept apart by the society they live in?
This book was a wonderful historical romance for teens. I particularly enjoyed reading about this historical setting, which the author brought to life in detail, because I have not read many books set in this time period. I truly enjoyed reading about Will and Susanna and their struggle to be together. I highly recommend this book to teen readers who enjoy historical fiction.
This book was a wonderful historical romance for teens. I particularly enjoyed reading about this historical setting, which the author brought to life in detail, because I have not read many books set in this time period. I truly enjoyed reading about Will and Susanna and their struggle to be together. I highly recommend this book to teen readers who enjoy historical fiction.
June 23, 2010
No Shame, no Fear, is a poignant and sensitive account of the persecution of Quakers in the 17th century - in the early years of Charles II reign. 15 year old Quaker Susanna goes to work as a servant in the home of a Quaker woman who runs a print shop. Will the son of a wealthy local man, converts to Quakerism - a faith he has found himself interested in for some time. The two young people are from different worlds, and life is anything but easy for Quakers at this time, frequently arrested and attacked for their beliefs and way of life. Yet Will and Susanna are determined to follow their hearts and stand up for their faith.
I found the details of the lives and beliefs of Quakers to be fascinating, and, it is what made me want to read this book in the first place. Very enjoyable read, not too heavy and the historical details seemed well done too.
I found the details of the lives and beliefs of Quakers to be fascinating, and, it is what made me want to read this book in the first place. Very enjoyable read, not too heavy and the historical details seemed well done too.
August 25, 2009
Historical fiction, detailing events that occurred between the Quakers and the authorities/Church of England during the 1622 on. It's interesting to learn some of the events that may have taken place, however, the characters don't really develop until the very end. This makes for a story that is mediocre at times. The love story aspect is fun at the beginning, but starts to lull and doesn't really drive the story line like it could. A better book giving information on the religious persecution people went through during this time period is Exiled-the true story of John Lathrop.
April 22, 2007
I didn't know anything about Quakers (other than what I'd picked up reading about other stuff, mostly the Underground Railroad) so that I didn't know they were persecuted. It's a very good book, not as depressing as most British kids' lit, and it made me want to research more about Quakers during the ??00s, and how they were persecuted. I mean really - was it that bad? Seems to me it's like killing Canadians, or hunting baby geese, but obviously someone felt threatened. Dumbasses.
September 21, 2007
About 16th c. Quakers in England, and the persecution they endured. My favorite historical fiction novel (EVER, maybe, since I don't read that many of them), possibly because it also has a great romance. The sequel is good, but not as good as this one.
April 15, 2009
I liked this book and will probably read the sequel but it lacked a little in plot development. I could relate to the quakers and their convictions through persecution though.
May 5, 2017
A quiet, character-driven story about romance, faith, and the discrimination faced by the Quakers in 17th century England.
No Shame, No Fear was just what I was looking for - surprising since I wasn't aware I was looking for anything, and picked it up in the library on a whim. But historical English fiction is an old love of mine, and this book concerns something I hadn't really heard of before. As an introduction to the Quaker faith and its history, this book was enlightening for someone as unversed as me. (All I knew was that Quakers say 'I affirm', because they don't swear oaths as they try always to be truthful.) It follows some predictable paths, both as a romance and as a story exploring the discrimination of a new and minority faith, but they're all solid tropes that I enjoy.
The characters were likeable, if rather typical for the genre. Susanna will stay with me for her faith and convictions. She was mostly mature and level-headed, though I also enjoyed the lovesickness and sulkiness she sometimes displayed; it made her feel like an authentic fifteen-year-old to me. Other memorable characters were Mary, Susanna's employer; I was won over from the start when her independent ownership of a bookshop and stationer's was presented without comment. Historical sexism is a lot more complicated than it is sometimes presented, but the existence of women like Mary was matter-of-fact and commonplace - maybe so matter-of-fact that the women like her often seem to be forgotten or left out of discussions of what life was like for women centuries ago.
The other memorable aspect of the book for me was Will's questioning as a new convert to the Quaker faith. He examines concepts of family and loyalty, and the true meaning of respect, and how he can balance his own personal beliefs about these ideas with the teachings of the new faith he is strongly drawn to.
While I enjoyed No Shame, No Fear in its comfortable predicability and found it very readable, it doesn't much stand out from the myriad historical romances I've read when the Quaker aspect is taken out. Come for the interesting presentation of a new faith in it's early stages, and for the type of characters and romance you read and enjoyed before; nothing will blow you away, but it might shed some light on a previously-unknown topic, and it well suits a quiet afternoon.
Content warnings
- corporal punishment: Will's father beats him for disobedience on one occasion; previous beatings are obliquely mentioned and future beatings are threatened. This was a normal child-rearing habit of the period, but I still found it unpleasant and worth mentioned
- misogynistic slurs: Susanna is frequently called a whore by Will's father, who blames her for Will's disobedience
- groping: Susanna is groped when she's restrained and unable to do anything; this is a very minor event and hardly thought on beyond the mention that it happened, but I found it very disturbing
No Shame, No Fear was just what I was looking for - surprising since I wasn't aware I was looking for anything, and picked it up in the library on a whim. But historical English fiction is an old love of mine, and this book concerns something I hadn't really heard of before. As an introduction to the Quaker faith and its history, this book was enlightening for someone as unversed as me. (All I knew was that Quakers say 'I affirm', because they don't swear oaths as they try always to be truthful.) It follows some predictable paths, both as a romance and as a story exploring the discrimination of a new and minority faith, but they're all solid tropes that I enjoy.
The characters were likeable, if rather typical for the genre. Susanna will stay with me for her faith and convictions. She was mostly mature and level-headed, though I also enjoyed the lovesickness and sulkiness she sometimes displayed; it made her feel like an authentic fifteen-year-old to me. Other memorable characters were Mary, Susanna's employer; I was won over from the start when her independent ownership of a bookshop and stationer's was presented without comment. Historical sexism is a lot more complicated than it is sometimes presented, but the existence of women like Mary was matter-of-fact and commonplace - maybe so matter-of-fact that the women like her often seem to be forgotten or left out of discussions of what life was like for women centuries ago.
The other memorable aspect of the book for me was Will's questioning as a new convert to the Quaker faith. He examines concepts of family and loyalty, and the true meaning of respect, and how he can balance his own personal beliefs about these ideas with the teachings of the new faith he is strongly drawn to.
While I enjoyed No Shame, No Fear in its comfortable predicability and found it very readable, it doesn't much stand out from the myriad historical romances I've read when the Quaker aspect is taken out. Come for the interesting presentation of a new faith in it's early stages, and for the type of characters and romance you read and enjoyed before; nothing will blow you away, but it might shed some light on a previously-unknown topic, and it well suits a quiet afternoon.
Content warnings
- corporal punishment: Will's father beats him for disobedience on one occasion; previous beatings are obliquely mentioned and future beatings are threatened. This was a normal child-rearing habit of the period, but I still found it unpleasant and worth mentioned
- misogynistic slurs: Susanna is frequently called a whore by Will's father, who blames her for Will's disobedience
- groping: Susanna is groped when she's restrained and unable to do anything; this is a very minor event and hardly thought on beyond the mention that it happened, but I found it very disturbing
August 24, 2022
Turnbull does not create so much as a romance in an historical setting as an unfolding of the consequences Quaker’s faced when adopting to their form of worship. The reader learns about the doctrines of the Quakers and the persecution they endure via the ‘eyes’ of a young Anglican who accepts the religious teachings and casts off / and is cast off by his family. Although we are assured Will has been considering the conversion for quite some time, the reader has to admit, his encounters with the young “Friend” Su do coincide with his increased interest.
After falling in love, witnessing hardships, beatings and adult advice to accept the realities of their lives, Will and Su do let us know they are destined for each other, just that they have recognized the maturity in waiting a few years before they marry. No immediate happy ending (checked and found that there is a sequel, that explains quite a lot) and thus a feeling of less romantic intent than historical fiction aimed at enlightening the reader about the history of the Quaker faith without fanfare or excitement.
Best line: “I felt the wrong that was being done to the young woman, and yet at the same time I was afraid of her and of whatever inner strength upheld her.”
After falling in love, witnessing hardships, beatings and adult advice to accept the realities of their lives, Will and Su do let us know they are destined for each other, just that they have recognized the maturity in waiting a few years before they marry. No immediate happy ending (checked and found that there is a sequel, that explains quite a lot) and thus a feeling of less romantic intent than historical fiction aimed at enlightening the reader about the history of the Quaker faith without fanfare or excitement.
Best line: “I felt the wrong that was being done to the young woman, and yet at the same time I was afraid of her and of whatever inner strength upheld her.”
August 2, 2020
A thoroughly touching story of Susanna, a young Quaker girl and Will, the son of a wealthy merchant, who fall in love. The story is set in 1662 against the violent persecution of Quakers and when Will decided to become a Quaker, their love and faith are tested to their limits.
I found the story truly engaging and my heart bleeds for anyone who stands up for their faith, yesterday or today. Whilst the descriptions of the violence inflicted on the Quakers and also by Will's father on Will are not hidden, they aren't graphic or gratuitous so it's suitable for teenagers. I want to know what happens next so book 2 is on order...
I found the story truly engaging and my heart bleeds for anyone who stands up for their faith, yesterday or today. Whilst the descriptions of the violence inflicted on the Quakers and also by Will's father on Will are not hidden, they aren't graphic or gratuitous so it's suitable for teenagers. I want to know what happens next so book 2 is on order...
November 11, 2019
At first I enjoyed this book because it was talking about the Quakers, something I wasn't very familiar with. As the book went along, I found myself getting bored at the repetition of the book. The characters fell in love, but it seemed a bit rushed and naive because they were both very young. There were parts of the book that I really enjoyed, but other parts seemed to drag on. I liked how it was written from the viewpoints of both William and Susanna. I'll probably read the rest of the series, just because I'm curious to see how their relationship turns out now that they live so far away.
February 19, 2018
I enjoyed reading this book for various reasons. I loved the viewpoint and setting set in the 1600s in England, and how every day was for people back then. They had to walk everywhere and even talked very different than we do today. That was something I had to get used to: their language. I also liked reading about the clashes of culture and religion. It was interesting to compare and contrast the era to today and it has made me realize how far the human race has advanced technologically.
January 30, 2018
A sweet YA novel set in 1662 England which explores a small slice of history, namely the persecution of early Quakers. It's an easy read, perhaps a little repetitive and too subdued in tone, but it does avoid many of the cliches one would expect from a teenage romance plot. Worth a quick read!
January 27, 2020
I really admired how the author has described the characters and the lifestyle of that certain period. It was super fast paced with lots of action and emotion and I just found out that it’s a trilogy!! I was literally longing to read more of these precious characters.
August 7, 2019
My first foray into British period dramas, I fell in love with this novel.
January 4, 2018
This book was extremely boring and had no pizazz to it. I could barely read it, although I guess I just was not interested in it. I couldn't really keep up with it as well, but it was just confusing in general.
February 20, 2011
'He is not for thee Susannah."
"Don't cry, we won't be parted, I promise.' - Will
No Shame, No Fear is set in England 1662, just after the civil war and there are many disputes over religious faith and culture.
Susanna is a young Quaker girl who has left her home in a small countryside village to go to work as a servant in the town of Hemsbury after her father is in jail for his Quaker beliefs and the bailiffs have raided her home. In the community, the Quakers are a feared, hated by some because of their different and simplistic way of thinking about their Christian faith
Meanwhile, seventeen year old Will has just finished his studies at Oxford and is returning home, where his father is trying to arrange a suitable apprenticeship for him in London using his wealth and influence.
By chance, the two meet and Will is intrigued by Susannah and her welcoming group of Quaker friends whose ways seem strange to him. As his curiosity grows, he spends more time with Susannah and a secret romance blossoms between them. Will, knows that his father, an Alderman would oppose to him mixing with a young Quaker girl and getting involved in the illegal Quaker meetings, as well as his sudden change in behaviour. With society, family and even the law against them, they must fight to what is most important to them and stay true to their love. Is it strong enough to overcome the many obstacles that stand between them?
What I loved most about this book was the way that each chapter was told from an alternating view point so that you got to know each of the characters of Will and Susannah really well and gave me a deeper understanding of the rift between their social standing and what ill would be giving up to follow his heart for Susannah. The plain yet language was what made the book so beautiful and it included the Quaker 'thee' and 'though' at some times made the story seem very authentic.
I could definitely tell that the author mus have put a lot of research into writing the book, for I learnt a lot about the manners, dress, food, apprenticeships, households (such as laundering) prison systems and law of the time. The detail of the Quakers, who called themselves Friends was very fascinating and I loved reading about their story of faith though suffering and persecution from Parliament through the eyes of two young people in love. There is no need to worry about the theme of faith and religion making the writing seem 'preachy' for it is not like that at all.
Characterisation- I thought that the character of Susannah was right for the plot and the fact that she was a young Quaker. She was very innocent and has many questions about her faith but is strong inside and brave when it comes to the things that she cares about. However, although I liked her, I think that she could have been given more of a distinct personality.
Will is the character who undergoes the most change in the book after meeting Susannah and getting involved with the Quakers. I got the feeling that although it is hard for him to decide whether to defy his family and society to turn his back on everything he has ever known, he never really fitted into it that well in the first place. He has a lot of courage and is very caring but I must admit that pondering on it, some of the life changes that he chose to make and the changes in him were quite quick.
Anne Turnball definitely got me involved with with story without unrealistic excitement and twists happening in the story all the time but through compelling descriptions and human emotions and suffering.
Verict: No Shame, No Fear, had me rooting for the love of William and Susannah and sympathising with the Quakers and their battle with faith in a combination which kept me hooked.
"Don't cry, we won't be parted, I promise.' - Will
No Shame, No Fear is set in England 1662, just after the civil war and there are many disputes over religious faith and culture.
Susanna is a young Quaker girl who has left her home in a small countryside village to go to work as a servant in the town of Hemsbury after her father is in jail for his Quaker beliefs and the bailiffs have raided her home. In the community, the Quakers are a feared, hated by some because of their different and simplistic way of thinking about their Christian faith
Meanwhile, seventeen year old Will has just finished his studies at Oxford and is returning home, where his father is trying to arrange a suitable apprenticeship for him in London using his wealth and influence.
By chance, the two meet and Will is intrigued by Susannah and her welcoming group of Quaker friends whose ways seem strange to him. As his curiosity grows, he spends more time with Susannah and a secret romance blossoms between them. Will, knows that his father, an Alderman would oppose to him mixing with a young Quaker girl and getting involved in the illegal Quaker meetings, as well as his sudden change in behaviour. With society, family and even the law against them, they must fight to what is most important to them and stay true to their love. Is it strong enough to overcome the many obstacles that stand between them?
What I loved most about this book was the way that each chapter was told from an alternating view point so that you got to know each of the characters of Will and Susannah really well and gave me a deeper understanding of the rift between their social standing and what ill would be giving up to follow his heart for Susannah. The plain yet language was what made the book so beautiful and it included the Quaker 'thee' and 'though' at some times made the story seem very authentic.
I could definitely tell that the author mus have put a lot of research into writing the book, for I learnt a lot about the manners, dress, food, apprenticeships, households (such as laundering) prison systems and law of the time. The detail of the Quakers, who called themselves Friends was very fascinating and I loved reading about their story of faith though suffering and persecution from Parliament through the eyes of two young people in love. There is no need to worry about the theme of faith and religion making the writing seem 'preachy' for it is not like that at all.
Characterisation- I thought that the character of Susannah was right for the plot and the fact that she was a young Quaker. She was very innocent and has many questions about her faith but is strong inside and brave when it comes to the things that she cares about. However, although I liked her, I think that she could have been given more of a distinct personality.
Will is the character who undergoes the most change in the book after meeting Susannah and getting involved with the Quakers. I got the feeling that although it is hard for him to decide whether to defy his family and society to turn his back on everything he has ever known, he never really fitted into it that well in the first place. He has a lot of courage and is very caring but I must admit that pondering on it, some of the life changes that he chose to make and the changes in him were quite quick.
Anne Turnball definitely got me involved with with story without unrealistic excitement and twists happening in the story all the time but through compelling descriptions and human emotions and suffering.
Verict: No Shame, No Fear, had me rooting for the love of William and Susannah and sympathising with the Quakers and their battle with faith in a combination which kept me hooked.
October 20, 2008
I first came across No Shame, No Fear in Adele Geras' review in The Guardian. I read and loved Troy and was interested in reading a book Geras said, "Needs a trumpet to be blown for it." The narrative alternates between two points of view--that of Susanna, a young Quaker girl, and William, a young man just home from Oxford. Set in England in 1662 just as the Quaker Act is passed, Susanna takes a job as an apprentice in a print shop to help provide for her family since her father has been incarcerated. William is about to embark on a seven year apprenticship for a wealthy merchant in London. The two meet once on the road and again in the print shop and matters get thornier from there. William begins investigating the Quaker faith, expressly against his father's wishes, and the two find themselves drawn to each other at a time when such a connection could prove fatal to both.
This short, simple tale held my interest easily and I found myself learning quite a bit about a time in history and a subset of the English population I was fairly unfamiliar with. Naturally, I found myself rooting for the starcrossed kids and was impressed when they both unexpectedly ended up displaying a bit more maturity than they could have given their youth and infatuation. The bad news is the ending does not resolve Susanna and Will's numerous problems. The good news is there's another book which, hopefully, does.
This is a scene early on in the book told from Susanna's perspective. Will comes into the print shop and finds Susanna reading a book called The Pious Prentice.
"You should read poetry," he said, "not this stuff."
"Poetry?"
We stood, not touching now, but still breathless, aware of each other's bodies.
"Poetry." He mimicked my suspicious tone. "Have you never read any? Is it frowned upon?"
"I think my father would feel it might. . .lead to unsuitable thought. It's a thing for scholars and gentlemen, is it not?"
"I'll lend you some," he said, "and you shall see for yourself. John Donne--no, George Herbert. Herbert was a godly man, a parish priest, much revered."
A priest. I felt I was entering dangerous lands. And yet I had been taught that the light was within everyone, that I should seek it and respond to it. Perhaps I should hear what this priest had to say.
Turnbull's writing style is so unobtrusive, it matches the simple, clean lines of the story very well. The pages fly by quickly and, as I said, the end leaves a few rather important issues unresolved so I recommend you have the sequel in hand when you sit down to read No Shame, No Fear. Sadly, I did not. I'll be remedying the situation shortly.
This short, simple tale held my interest easily and I found myself learning quite a bit about a time in history and a subset of the English population I was fairly unfamiliar with. Naturally, I found myself rooting for the starcrossed kids and was impressed when they both unexpectedly ended up displaying a bit more maturity than they could have given their youth and infatuation. The bad news is the ending does not resolve Susanna and Will's numerous problems. The good news is there's another book which, hopefully, does.
This is a scene early on in the book told from Susanna's perspective. Will comes into the print shop and finds Susanna reading a book called The Pious Prentice.
"You should read poetry," he said, "not this stuff."
"Poetry?"
We stood, not touching now, but still breathless, aware of each other's bodies.
"Poetry." He mimicked my suspicious tone. "Have you never read any? Is it frowned upon?"
"I think my father would feel it might. . .lead to unsuitable thought. It's a thing for scholars and gentlemen, is it not?"
"I'll lend you some," he said, "and you shall see for yourself. John Donne--no, George Herbert. Herbert was a godly man, a parish priest, much revered."
A priest. I felt I was entering dangerous lands. And yet I had been taught that the light was within everyone, that I should seek it and respond to it. Perhaps I should hear what this priest had to say.
Turnbull's writing style is so unobtrusive, it matches the simple, clean lines of the story very well. The pages fly by quickly and, as I said, the end leaves a few rather important issues unresolved so I recommend you have the sequel in hand when you sit down to read No Shame, No Fear. Sadly, I did not. I'll be remedying the situation shortly.
April 12, 2014
Saya beli buku ini secara impulsif saja. Buku ini lagi diskon dan saya pikir sinopsisnya menarik. Historical dan ada unsur cinta terlarang. Aihh... (Apa sih?)
Buku ini dibagi dua sudut pandang, Will dan Susanna secara selang-seling. Sesuai sinopsisnya, ini memang kisah dua orang di masa kepercayaan dianggap tabu. Terus-terang saya tidak terlalu mengerti sistem kepercayaan apa yang dimaksud. Saya harus membuka Wikipedia dulu. Itu pun saya hanya baca sekilas.
Pada dasarnya, di zaman itu Inggris memegang kuat sistem kebangsawanan. Seorang "Quaker" (panggilan untuk sesama penganut kepercayaan) memandang kesetaraan di atas segalanya. Mereka masih menggunakan bahasa Inggris kuno (thou, thy, thine) dan para bangsawan tidak menyukai mereka (biasanya bangsawan kan dipanggil My Lord, Your Grace atau apalah). Itu sebabnya dibuat hukum yang melarang mereka beribadah di satu tempat. Tapi namanya juga orang. Keukeuh melanggar dan banyak yang dipenjara juga dibunuh, termasuk teman-teman Susanna.
Will baru lulus sekolah dan sedang mempersiapkan diri untuk mengikuti apprenticeship. Masa depannya sudah terjamin sampai ia bertemu dengan Susanna. Saya tidak terlalu suka bagaimana hubungan keduanya dimulai. Terlalu instan dan merupakan cinta pada pandangan pertama yang tidak believable, khas zaman dulu banget. Pokoknya Will menyukai aliran kepercayaan itu dan menjadi pengikut setia hingga ayahnya mengetahui semuanya. Sang ayah melapor pada walikota untuk menghancurkan tempat ibadah Susanna sekaligus memenjarakan orang-orang yang melawan.
Novel ini ingin menunjukkan keteguhan dalam memegang kepercayaan masing-masing. Mungkin karena saya bukan orang-orang seperti Will dan Susanna yang rela dipenjara demi tetap setia pada kepercayaan mereka, saya tidak bisa ikut simpati. Will rela bersikap kurang ajar dan mengecewakan ayahnya yang sudah susah-susah menjamin masa depan putranya itu. Dia juga lebih memilih Susanna dibanding keluarganya sendiri. Bagus sih, hanya saja saya tetap merasa Will terlalu tergesa-gesa mengambil keputusan yang ceroboh. Untungnya, majikan Susanna mampu menasehati Will. Bagaimanapun Will ingin menikahi Susanna, ia tidak akan bisa menafkahi sebuah keluarga tanpa warisan ayahnya. Ia harus berjuang sendiri jika ingin tetap mencari jalan dengan caranya sendiri. Dasar anak muda labil, ckckckck...
Ceritanya cukup menarik walau emosinya tidak terlalu dalam. Realistis, namun kurang bikin greget. Karakter Will dan Susanna juga terlalu biasa, tidak unik gitu. Jadi, mudah dilupakan.
http://sabrinazheng.blogspot.com/2014...
Buku ini dibagi dua sudut pandang, Will dan Susanna secara selang-seling. Sesuai sinopsisnya, ini memang kisah dua orang di masa kepercayaan dianggap tabu. Terus-terang saya tidak terlalu mengerti sistem kepercayaan apa yang dimaksud. Saya harus membuka Wikipedia dulu. Itu pun saya hanya baca sekilas.
Pada dasarnya, di zaman itu Inggris memegang kuat sistem kebangsawanan. Seorang "Quaker" (panggilan untuk sesama penganut kepercayaan) memandang kesetaraan di atas segalanya. Mereka masih menggunakan bahasa Inggris kuno (thou, thy, thine) dan para bangsawan tidak menyukai mereka (biasanya bangsawan kan dipanggil My Lord, Your Grace atau apalah). Itu sebabnya dibuat hukum yang melarang mereka beribadah di satu tempat. Tapi namanya juga orang. Keukeuh melanggar dan banyak yang dipenjara juga dibunuh, termasuk teman-teman Susanna.
Will baru lulus sekolah dan sedang mempersiapkan diri untuk mengikuti apprenticeship. Masa depannya sudah terjamin sampai ia bertemu dengan Susanna. Saya tidak terlalu suka bagaimana hubungan keduanya dimulai. Terlalu instan dan merupakan cinta pada pandangan pertama yang tidak believable, khas zaman dulu banget. Pokoknya Will menyukai aliran kepercayaan itu dan menjadi pengikut setia hingga ayahnya mengetahui semuanya. Sang ayah melapor pada walikota untuk menghancurkan tempat ibadah Susanna sekaligus memenjarakan orang-orang yang melawan.
Novel ini ingin menunjukkan keteguhan dalam memegang kepercayaan masing-masing. Mungkin karena saya bukan orang-orang seperti Will dan Susanna yang rela dipenjara demi tetap setia pada kepercayaan mereka, saya tidak bisa ikut simpati. Will rela bersikap kurang ajar dan mengecewakan ayahnya yang sudah susah-susah menjamin masa depan putranya itu. Dia juga lebih memilih Susanna dibanding keluarganya sendiri. Bagus sih, hanya saja saya tetap merasa Will terlalu tergesa-gesa mengambil keputusan yang ceroboh. Untungnya, majikan Susanna mampu menasehati Will. Bagaimanapun Will ingin menikahi Susanna, ia tidak akan bisa menafkahi sebuah keluarga tanpa warisan ayahnya. Ia harus berjuang sendiri jika ingin tetap mencari jalan dengan caranya sendiri. Dasar anak muda labil, ckckckck...
Ceritanya cukup menarik walau emosinya tidak terlalu dalam. Realistis, namun kurang bikin greget. Karakter Will dan Susanna juga terlalu biasa, tidak unik gitu. Jadi, mudah dilupakan.
http://sabrinazheng.blogspot.com/2014...
August 31, 2016
See this review and more on my blog: https://readwritetravel.wordpress.com...
Susanna is a young Quaker woman used to the hardships and taunts thrown at her people. Will is the son of a wealthy merchant, used to fine cloth, servants, and the frivolities of his rank. When Susanna takes a job as an assistant in a bookseller’s house in the town, her life and Will’s collide. As Will slowly takes on the Quaker way of life, they fight persecution on all sides–from the government that wants to take their religion from them, and from their parents who want to keep them apart. In the face of so much opposition, can they stay true to each other–and to themselves?
Another fantastic historical read by Ann Turnbull. I previously read Alice, in Love and War, my review for which you can read here. I liked this book even better because both of the main characters, while idealistic, were realistic in their hopes and dreams and desires. I could relate to Susanna, who wanted to leave her country life for life in the town, her excitement about books and learning, and running up against so many obstacles to be with the boy she loved.
As with Alice, this book’s historical details set me back in time with a printing press, beer drunk at all hours, using urine to clean linen, and the layers upon layers that women had to don to be considered decent. The religious aspect of this book was done well, too. The persecution that Quakers faced was well described, if not always easy to read, as modern readers will be able to look on and think, “How could anyone do this to such a peaceable people?” For any worried about reading a religious book, it’s not preachy in any sense–just true to its time in history.
One of my favorite parts of this book, though, was the ending. Let’s just say it isn’t your typical romance. The couple choose the road less traveled because that is what’s better for them at the time, and, once again, it’s the more realistic decision. Perhaps not all readers will be satisfied with the ending (in which case, there is a sequel that undoubtedly will meet their needs), but others will look at the characters and know that they will be stronger for it–individually and in their relationship.
Highly recommended to all fans of historical fiction, young and old. I can’t wait to read the sequel.
Susanna is a young Quaker woman used to the hardships and taunts thrown at her people. Will is the son of a wealthy merchant, used to fine cloth, servants, and the frivolities of his rank. When Susanna takes a job as an assistant in a bookseller’s house in the town, her life and Will’s collide. As Will slowly takes on the Quaker way of life, they fight persecution on all sides–from the government that wants to take their religion from them, and from their parents who want to keep them apart. In the face of so much opposition, can they stay true to each other–and to themselves?
Another fantastic historical read by Ann Turnbull. I previously read Alice, in Love and War, my review for which you can read here. I liked this book even better because both of the main characters, while idealistic, were realistic in their hopes and dreams and desires. I could relate to Susanna, who wanted to leave her country life for life in the town, her excitement about books and learning, and running up against so many obstacles to be with the boy she loved.
As with Alice, this book’s historical details set me back in time with a printing press, beer drunk at all hours, using urine to clean linen, and the layers upon layers that women had to don to be considered decent. The religious aspect of this book was done well, too. The persecution that Quakers faced was well described, if not always easy to read, as modern readers will be able to look on and think, “How could anyone do this to such a peaceable people?” For any worried about reading a religious book, it’s not preachy in any sense–just true to its time in history.
One of my favorite parts of this book, though, was the ending. Let’s just say it isn’t your typical romance. The couple choose the road less traveled because that is what’s better for them at the time, and, once again, it’s the more realistic decision. Perhaps not all readers will be satisfied with the ending (in which case, there is a sequel that undoubtedly will meet their needs), but others will look at the characters and know that they will be stronger for it–individually and in their relationship.
Highly recommended to all fans of historical fiction, young and old. I can’t wait to read the sequel.
April 14, 2011
Susanna Thorn is a Quaker during a time of great persecution in England. Quakers are being imprisoned, including Susanna's own father. Susanna has longed to go to a city for a while, so she volunteers to get work. A fellow Friend, Mary, runs a printing press and agrees to take her on as a servant. So Susanna sets of for the town of Hemsbury, and a new life.
Will Heywood is about to be apprenticed when he meets Susanna. His father hates Quakers and would never approve of their growing relationship, but how long can Will keep it a secret? Especially as he becomes as interested in the religion as he is in the girl. As the persecution grows worse their friends are arrested one by one and even their youth will not protect them.
I really liked this book. It is set in a fascinating time period and is about such a strong group of people. They are not any stronger in anyone in else in a physical sense, but their faith helped them to endure terrible hardships without fear.
I liked Susanna, but it was Will's storyline that interested me the most. He grew and changed throughout the story while Susanna remained basically the same person as she was at the beginning. A little older and wiser, but the same. I liked how the story told of Will's difficulties in facing his father. He was willing to brave the authorities and risk arrest for his new friends and faith, but he was afraid of how his family would react.
This story is less about religion than it is about those who's lives are changed by it. This is a book about human beings with ordinary lives who make ordinary mistakes, but their beliefs help them make it through the troubles and misunderstandings of ordinary life. They endure horrible persecutions, but the book always seemed to be more about the characters than it is about any of the bad things that happens to them.
I would recommend this book and its sequel, Forged in the Fire, to anyone who is interested in history, religion, or young people growing up.
http://liedermadchen.blogspot.com/201...
Will Heywood is about to be apprenticed when he meets Susanna. His father hates Quakers and would never approve of their growing relationship, but how long can Will keep it a secret? Especially as he becomes as interested in the religion as he is in the girl. As the persecution grows worse their friends are arrested one by one and even their youth will not protect them.
I really liked this book. It is set in a fascinating time period and is about such a strong group of people. They are not any stronger in anyone in else in a physical sense, but their faith helped them to endure terrible hardships without fear.
I liked Susanna, but it was Will's storyline that interested me the most. He grew and changed throughout the story while Susanna remained basically the same person as she was at the beginning. A little older and wiser, but the same. I liked how the story told of Will's difficulties in facing his father. He was willing to brave the authorities and risk arrest for his new friends and faith, but he was afraid of how his family would react.
This story is less about religion than it is about those who's lives are changed by it. This is a book about human beings with ordinary lives who make ordinary mistakes, but their beliefs help them make it through the troubles and misunderstandings of ordinary life. They endure horrible persecutions, but the book always seemed to be more about the characters than it is about any of the bad things that happens to them.
I would recommend this book and its sequel, Forged in the Fire, to anyone who is interested in history, religion, or young people growing up.
http://liedermadchen.blogspot.com/201...
February 24, 2009
In 1662 England, fifteen-year-old Susanna Thorn lives daily in the fear of her parents being arrested. Their crime? Quakerism. From a modern viewpoint, it is difficult to imagine what harm simple, honest, peaceful "Friends" could do. However, the right to worship freely did not exist in 1662 England. The church of England was THE religion. Those of other religious sects openly living their beliefs were at risk of persecution and even prosecution. The Quakers in particular, who believed in equality of class and gender, were a serious threat to traditional English society.
It is unsurprising, then, that Susanna's story opens with her home being raided and her father imprisoned. With her family's livelihood at stake, Susanna goes to work as a lowly print shop's assistant in the local town of Hemsbury. Meanwhile, seventeen-year-old Hemsbury native Will Heywood is living under very different circumstances. The only son of a wealthy merchant, Will has just returned from London, where he received a classical education and now has plenty of opportunities awaiting him. So when Will meets Susanna and is drawn to her faith just as Quaker meetings are outlawed, his life seems to have taken the worst possible turn.
This riveting, bittersweet read had me thinking about the persecution members of my church (Mormonism) have faced and asking myself if I had the strength to follow my religion so unashamedly in the same position. In fact the severe, unending persecution these characters endured made it difficult to read. The simple, unadorned writing, however, made the pages fly by. Overall, a sweet story of young love amidst seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
It is unsurprising, then, that Susanna's story opens with her home being raided and her father imprisoned. With her family's livelihood at stake, Susanna goes to work as a lowly print shop's assistant in the local town of Hemsbury. Meanwhile, seventeen-year-old Hemsbury native Will Heywood is living under very different circumstances. The only son of a wealthy merchant, Will has just returned from London, where he received a classical education and now has plenty of opportunities awaiting him. So when Will meets Susanna and is drawn to her faith just as Quaker meetings are outlawed, his life seems to have taken the worst possible turn.
This riveting, bittersweet read had me thinking about the persecution members of my church (Mormonism) have faced and asking myself if I had the strength to follow my religion so unashamedly in the same position. In fact the severe, unending persecution these characters endured made it difficult to read. The simple, unadorned writing, however, made the pages fly by. Overall, a sweet story of young love amidst seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
December 23, 2013
On whole I found this book, to be a good insight into a Quaker's life in the sixteen hundreds. It told the reader about the troubles and prejudice they faced, and I thought this was good way to learn about these events.
The characters portrayed a good example of local life, as it was thought to be. However Will annoyed me, as he was so naive, he reminded me of Romeo, due to his eagerness to marry a younger girl, after only knowing her for a short period of time. Suzanna, on the other hand, was brave, but chased after Will, when there was more important things at stake, for instance Nat's health.
Throughout this book, I really liked a lot of the other characters such as Mary. They really brought the book together, and are what made me carry on reading to find out what happened to them. They all had different qualities, which aided in the character development of Suzanna. She became, more mature and brave,. Saying that she still did have the mind of a teenager, one who gets very caught up in the moment.
I did enjoy the book, however I won't be carrying on with the series, as I don't think I could handle reading about Will and Suzanna's relationship for another two books.
Not to discredit this book, I am glad I read it, and would recommend it to anyone who likes history. It has a good story line, and plot. I just personally couldn't manage two more books.
The characters portrayed a good example of local life, as it was thought to be. However Will annoyed me, as he was so naive, he reminded me of Romeo, due to his eagerness to marry a younger girl, after only knowing her for a short period of time. Suzanna, on the other hand, was brave, but chased after Will, when there was more important things at stake, for instance Nat's health.
Throughout this book, I really liked a lot of the other characters such as Mary. They really brought the book together, and are what made me carry on reading to find out what happened to them. They all had different qualities, which aided in the character development of Suzanna. She became, more mature and brave,. Saying that she still did have the mind of a teenager, one who gets very caught up in the moment.
I did enjoy the book, however I won't be carrying on with the series, as I don't think I could handle reading about Will and Suzanna's relationship for another two books.
Not to discredit this book, I am glad I read it, and would recommend it to anyone who likes history. It has a good story line, and plot. I just personally couldn't manage two more books.
August 17, 2008
William is the wealthy son of an alderman. He has a family duty to respect his father and the Church of England, which becomes a problem when Will finds himself a seeker of the Quaker religion. Susanna is a devout Quaker of fifteen years, struggling to help her family survive. Her father is in prison for refusing to pay tithes/fines to the Anglican church. Of course, these two fall in love, practically at first sight. Will and Susanna give their first person perspectives. The book is about their love for God and each other. Thinking of these characters and how the Quakers faced such persecution in the 17th century reminded me of my own ancestors in their desires for religious freedom. It is a simply written romance, which holds a strong, necessary message for young adults. These two characters are able to put God and responsibility above their own desire to be together. What can be better than to remind teens of the 21st century the value of becoming less impuslive, less worldly, and to have the utmost faith in God- even if it means you will be persecuted? Because of one particular kissing scene (which was possibly inauthentic for a conservative Quaker girl), I would keep this in mind for older teens.
July 15, 2016
Wish I had known this was part of a trilogy!!! I got to the end and said...."That it? How unfulfilling." So know, going in that there is more to the story.
I was fascinated with the historical aspect of this story. I had no idea how the Quakers were persecuted in England in the 1600s. And of course, with modern sensibilities, some of it was hard to read. But the historical element of this book was well done. Right down to the stench from sewage running down the middle of the road to the difficulty of society and all of its rules.
The romance that develops between William and Susanna was quite sweet and realistic. They are young, and hormones run high making a quick marriage the most imperative thing on earth. I found Williams journey into a spiritual life well told. It's hard to convey what someone feels when touched by Spirit, but I though Turnbull did a nice job giving the reader and inside look at the process.
An interesting and easy read. I will go on and read the next book. I'm invested enough in the characters to want to know the end of their story.
I was fascinated with the historical aspect of this story. I had no idea how the Quakers were persecuted in England in the 1600s. And of course, with modern sensibilities, some of it was hard to read. But the historical element of this book was well done. Right down to the stench from sewage running down the middle of the road to the difficulty of society and all of its rules.
The romance that develops between William and Susanna was quite sweet and realistic. They are young, and hormones run high making a quick marriage the most imperative thing on earth. I found Williams journey into a spiritual life well told. It's hard to convey what someone feels when touched by Spirit, but I though Turnbull did a nice job giving the reader and inside look at the process.
An interesting and easy read. I will go on and read the next book. I'm invested enough in the characters to want to know the end of their story.
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