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The Hat Girl From Silver Street
Life is tough for Ella Bancroft. After her father, Thomas, is wheelchair-bound by an accident at the tube works, the responsibility for keeping a roof over their head falls to Ella. Ella’s mother died when she was ten, and her sister Sally lives with her no-good, work-shy husband Eddy, so is no help at all. If she and her father are to keep the bailiffs from the door, then Ella must earn a living.
But Ella is resourceful as well as creative, and soon discovers she has a gift for millinery. Setting up shop in the front room of their two-up, two-down home in Silver Street, Walsall, Ella and Thomas work hard to establish a thriving business. Before long, the fashionable ladies of the Black Country are lining up to wear one of Ella’s beautiful creations, and finally Ella dares to hope for a life with love, friendship and family.
Meeting the man she longs to marry should be a turning point for Ella, but life’s twists and turns can be cruel. As the winter grows colder, events seem to conspire to test Ella’s spirit. And by the time spring is approaching, will the hat girl of Silver Street triumph, or will Ella have to admit defeat as all her dreams are tested.
The Queen of the Black Country sagas is back with a heart-breaking, unforgettable, page-turning story of love, life and battling against the odds. Perfect for fans of Val Wood and Lyn Andrews.
But Ella is resourceful as well as creative, and soon discovers she has a gift for millinery. Setting up shop in the front room of their two-up, two-down home in Silver Street, Walsall, Ella and Thomas work hard to establish a thriving business. Before long, the fashionable ladies of the Black Country are lining up to wear one of Ella’s beautiful creations, and finally Ella dares to hope for a life with love, friendship and family.
Meeting the man she longs to marry should be a turning point for Ella, but life’s twists and turns can be cruel. As the winter grows colder, events seem to conspire to test Ella’s spirit. And by the time spring is approaching, will the hat girl of Silver Street triumph, or will Ella have to admit defeat as all her dreams are tested.
The Queen of the Black Country sagas is back with a heart-breaking, unforgettable, page-turning story of love, life and battling against the odds. Perfect for fans of Val Wood and Lyn Andrews.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 4, 2021
235 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
March 4, 2021
Life is tough for Ella Bancroft. After her father, Thomas, is wheel-chair bound by an accident at the tube works, the responsibility for keeping a roof over their heads falls to Ella. Ella is resourceful as well as creative, and soon discovers she has a gift for millinery. She sets up shop in their two-up, two-down home in Silver Street. Before long, the fashionable ladies of the Black Country are lining up to waer one of Ella's beautiful creations. Meeting the man she longs to marry should be a turning point. But not everything goes to plan.
This is another well writen book that draws you in at the beginning and doesn't let you go until the end. With a cast full of characters you will mostly love, a few that deserve what they get in life and one spoilt brat you will quickly want to put over your knee and give them a good skelp. This is a heartwarming but also heartbreaking tale of romance, friendships, betrayal, deaths and loyalty. I would liked to have learned more about what happened next to Ella and the rest of the remaining characters. But i was glad to see a few characters get their comeuppance.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #BoldwoodBooks and the author #LindseyHutchinson for my ARC #TheHatGirlOfSilverStreet in exchange for an honest review.
This is another well writen book that draws you in at the beginning and doesn't let you go until the end. With a cast full of characters you will mostly love, a few that deserve what they get in life and one spoilt brat you will quickly want to put over your knee and give them a good skelp. This is a heartwarming but also heartbreaking tale of romance, friendships, betrayal, deaths and loyalty. I would liked to have learned more about what happened next to Ella and the rest of the remaining characters. But i was glad to see a few characters get their comeuppance.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #BoldwoodBooks and the author #LindseyHutchinson for my ARC #TheHatGirlOfSilverStreet in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2021
I am excited to be taking part in the #BlogTour for Lindsey Hutchinson's heartbreaking new saga THE HAT GIRL FROM SILVER STREET.
A little different from previous books I have read by this author, THE HAT GIRL FROM SILVER STREET reminds me a little of Catherine Cookson in style and tale rather than the usual stories of orphans I have come to know by Lindsey Hutchinson. Set in 1900, it focuses on a young woman who makes a name for herself as a milliner in the Black Country town of Walsall towards the end of the Victorian era, her life and her loves as well as her heartbreaks.
An apprentice hat maker, Ella Bancroft works under the watchful eye of her mean and nasty employer Ivy Gladwin. Encouraged by her kind father to see her true worth, Ella leaves the job where she is under-appreciated for a new venture that she endeavours to make a success.
Wheelchair-bound after a work accident some years before, Thomas Bancroft feels useless and unable to contribute until one evening, playing with some ribbon, he discovers a rare talent he never knew he had. Finally with a reason to smile again, he and Ella set up shop together in the front room of their house where she can put her millinery skills to work on making the finest hats in Walsall.
Unsure of her success in the beginning, Ella soon finds herself in demand when Mrs Elena Fortescue pays her a visit to buy a hat for her son's upcoming wedding. On subsequent visits she brings the bride-to-be, Darcie Newland, and her friends as prospective customers. But spoilt and snobbish Darcie turns her nose up at the provincial little shop and anything it offers, despite having loved the hat Mrs Fortescue had purchased previously. However, Darcie thought she had purchased such exquisite finery in London or Birmingham, or somewhere far more fashionable than Silver Street. But Ella would not be swayed and soon put the spoilt Darcie in her place, much to the amusement of Elena Fortescue and her friends.
Then, having heard such favourable things about the milliner from his mother, Harper Fortescue decided to pay the shop a visit to purchase something different for his upcoming wedding. He didn't expect to walk away with more than a new hat but upon entering and seeing Ella for the first time, Harper fell in love. Little did he know that Ella's emotions were as awhirl as his were and as soon as he left the shop, Ella couldn't stop thinking about him. Thomas could see his daughter was in love but wisely advised that nothing good could come from it as social status divide them. Besides, he was betrothed to another and was not hers to have. And yet, Harper cannot keep away from the little shop or the beautiful milliner.
Meanwhile, back in town Ivy Gladwin was at a loss as to why her sales had all but disappeared as day after day people passed her window display but no one entered her shop. Then one day the bell above the door tinkled as a woman walked in and pointed at the hat taking pride of place in her display window. Smiling, Ivy prepared herself for the compliments she expected from her hard work but instead was shocked when the woman criticised the monstrosity and by way of parting said there were far more striking and modern hats being sold down on Silver Street for a much better price. Ivy was speechless. Silver Street? Ella? She wouldn't...would she? Ivy knew then what she had to do. She took herself down to Silver Street to take a look for herself and was disheartened when she saw the beautiful hats on display in the front window. And then, Ivy smiled wickedly as an inkling of an idea began to form. What better way to draw customers back to her shop and get her revenge back on Ella at the same time?
Also hoping to gain from Ella's success is her sister Sally who could not be more different. Newly pregnant, Sally attempts to ingratiate herself with her younger sister in the hope she will be rewarded, as her husband Eddy had not yet seen fit to get himself work of any kind to support both his wife and expected child. This causes a lot of tension between the sisters as Sally strikes out spitefully at even the mention of Eddy and work. Sally even resents Ella's kindhearted neighbour Flossie Woolley's presence each time she finds her in the cosy kitchen. But Sally is needing money for the baby, and soon, as she makes suggestions to sell items that Ella prefers to hold on to. Furious at being unable to sway her sister, Sally flounces out without so much as a goodbye each time. And yet every day, Sally returns with yet more criticism and vitriol to spout, no doubt.
When Ella's sales start dropping off and continue to do so, Ella and her father endeavour to put measures into place to ensure her bespoke designs remain protected. And yet no matter what she does, customers appear to now be going elsewhere.
Despite his circumstances, Harper Fortescue cannot keep away from the little shop on Silver Street. He finds any excuse to pay a visit, purchasing many hats along the way. Although he is promised to another in a marriage of convenience, it is clear just looking at them that the couple are in love. But Harper is of middle class standing and Ella is just a milliner...what can the future possibly hold for them?
And then tragedy rocks Ella's world in a way she wonders will she ever come back from it?
Secrets, betrayals and deception abound in this touching yet heartbreaking tale set in the late Victorian era as we meet plenty of characters along the way - some likeable, some not so likeable. With a good range of traits from vindictive and sly to the sweet and gentle to the candid and outspoken, prepared to feel a range of emotions along the way, getting entirely lost in the story.
Due to the nature of sagas, they are generally predictable but still rather enjoyable. Despite this I found one aspect to be quite unpredictable as I didn't expect it, nor did I like it. But aside from the unexpected ending, THE HAT GIRL FROM SILVER STREET is an entirely enjoyable story that is perfect for fans of historical fiction sagas like Catherine Cookson and Dilly Court.
I would like to thank #LindseyHutchinson, #RachelsRandomResources, #Netgalley and #BoldwoodBooks for an ARC of #TheHatGirlFromSilverStreet in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
A little different from previous books I have read by this author, THE HAT GIRL FROM SILVER STREET reminds me a little of Catherine Cookson in style and tale rather than the usual stories of orphans I have come to know by Lindsey Hutchinson. Set in 1900, it focuses on a young woman who makes a name for herself as a milliner in the Black Country town of Walsall towards the end of the Victorian era, her life and her loves as well as her heartbreaks.
An apprentice hat maker, Ella Bancroft works under the watchful eye of her mean and nasty employer Ivy Gladwin. Encouraged by her kind father to see her true worth, Ella leaves the job where she is under-appreciated for a new venture that she endeavours to make a success.
Wheelchair-bound after a work accident some years before, Thomas Bancroft feels useless and unable to contribute until one evening, playing with some ribbon, he discovers a rare talent he never knew he had. Finally with a reason to smile again, he and Ella set up shop together in the front room of their house where she can put her millinery skills to work on making the finest hats in Walsall.
Unsure of her success in the beginning, Ella soon finds herself in demand when Mrs Elena Fortescue pays her a visit to buy a hat for her son's upcoming wedding. On subsequent visits she brings the bride-to-be, Darcie Newland, and her friends as prospective customers. But spoilt and snobbish Darcie turns her nose up at the provincial little shop and anything it offers, despite having loved the hat Mrs Fortescue had purchased previously. However, Darcie thought she had purchased such exquisite finery in London or Birmingham, or somewhere far more fashionable than Silver Street. But Ella would not be swayed and soon put the spoilt Darcie in her place, much to the amusement of Elena Fortescue and her friends.
Then, having heard such favourable things about the milliner from his mother, Harper Fortescue decided to pay the shop a visit to purchase something different for his upcoming wedding. He didn't expect to walk away with more than a new hat but upon entering and seeing Ella for the first time, Harper fell in love. Little did he know that Ella's emotions were as awhirl as his were and as soon as he left the shop, Ella couldn't stop thinking about him. Thomas could see his daughter was in love but wisely advised that nothing good could come from it as social status divide them. Besides, he was betrothed to another and was not hers to have. And yet, Harper cannot keep away from the little shop or the beautiful milliner.
Meanwhile, back in town Ivy Gladwin was at a loss as to why her sales had all but disappeared as day after day people passed her window display but no one entered her shop. Then one day the bell above the door tinkled as a woman walked in and pointed at the hat taking pride of place in her display window. Smiling, Ivy prepared herself for the compliments she expected from her hard work but instead was shocked when the woman criticised the monstrosity and by way of parting said there were far more striking and modern hats being sold down on Silver Street for a much better price. Ivy was speechless. Silver Street? Ella? She wouldn't...would she? Ivy knew then what she had to do. She took herself down to Silver Street to take a look for herself and was disheartened when she saw the beautiful hats on display in the front window. And then, Ivy smiled wickedly as an inkling of an idea began to form. What better way to draw customers back to her shop and get her revenge back on Ella at the same time?
Also hoping to gain from Ella's success is her sister Sally who could not be more different. Newly pregnant, Sally attempts to ingratiate herself with her younger sister in the hope she will be rewarded, as her husband Eddy had not yet seen fit to get himself work of any kind to support both his wife and expected child. This causes a lot of tension between the sisters as Sally strikes out spitefully at even the mention of Eddy and work. Sally even resents Ella's kindhearted neighbour Flossie Woolley's presence each time she finds her in the cosy kitchen. But Sally is needing money for the baby, and soon, as she makes suggestions to sell items that Ella prefers to hold on to. Furious at being unable to sway her sister, Sally flounces out without so much as a goodbye each time. And yet every day, Sally returns with yet more criticism and vitriol to spout, no doubt.
When Ella's sales start dropping off and continue to do so, Ella and her father endeavour to put measures into place to ensure her bespoke designs remain protected. And yet no matter what she does, customers appear to now be going elsewhere.
Despite his circumstances, Harper Fortescue cannot keep away from the little shop on Silver Street. He finds any excuse to pay a visit, purchasing many hats along the way. Although he is promised to another in a marriage of convenience, it is clear just looking at them that the couple are in love. But Harper is of middle class standing and Ella is just a milliner...what can the future possibly hold for them?
And then tragedy rocks Ella's world in a way she wonders will she ever come back from it?
Secrets, betrayals and deception abound in this touching yet heartbreaking tale set in the late Victorian era as we meet plenty of characters along the way - some likeable, some not so likeable. With a good range of traits from vindictive and sly to the sweet and gentle to the candid and outspoken, prepared to feel a range of emotions along the way, getting entirely lost in the story.
Due to the nature of sagas, they are generally predictable but still rather enjoyable. Despite this I found one aspect to be quite unpredictable as I didn't expect it, nor did I like it. But aside from the unexpected ending, THE HAT GIRL FROM SILVER STREET is an entirely enjoyable story that is perfect for fans of historical fiction sagas like Catherine Cookson and Dilly Court.
I would like to thank #LindseyHutchinson, #RachelsRandomResources, #Netgalley and #BoldwoodBooks for an ARC of #TheHatGirlFromSilverStreet in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
February 21, 2021
What a wonderful story The Hat Girl From Silver Street was, and also my first outing with this author and be I will come back to based on this book.
The story revolves around Ella, the younger, and nicer of two sisters. She is a hard worker under the employ of a milliner. With low wages and unfair working conditions, her father encourages Ella to leave. Between them, they start their own business and this introduces them to many other people.
This is a lovely story that I found very easy to get caught up in, so much so I read it in one sitting. The author delves into the living conditions briefly as well as the hardships and uncertainties of the time. Starting a business from scratch is a brave decision but the author has given solid reasons. Meeting new people in a society is one fraught with danger as Ella's shop is in her house.
This story revolves around family and life in general. A society that is all about class and getting the best marriage deals is something the author did tackle well. It made for an agonising waiting game as I read the story, getting more and more drawn in.
There are some really good characters that range from the outspoken to the more gentle and with a good range of traits that include vindictive, sly, aloof and downright nasty there is something to keep a sense of intrigue. This means that you will root for some and wait for the others to get their comeuppance.
Overall a great story to lose yourself in for a few hours, it is one that I found easy reading as well as very addictive. A little predictable at times but still very enjoyable. One for those that do like their historical fiction and romance that leans more towards the family saga style of story. One I would recommend and a great introduction for a new to me author.
The story revolves around Ella, the younger, and nicer of two sisters. She is a hard worker under the employ of a milliner. With low wages and unfair working conditions, her father encourages Ella to leave. Between them, they start their own business and this introduces them to many other people.
This is a lovely story that I found very easy to get caught up in, so much so I read it in one sitting. The author delves into the living conditions briefly as well as the hardships and uncertainties of the time. Starting a business from scratch is a brave decision but the author has given solid reasons. Meeting new people in a society is one fraught with danger as Ella's shop is in her house.
This story revolves around family and life in general. A society that is all about class and getting the best marriage deals is something the author did tackle well. It made for an agonising waiting game as I read the story, getting more and more drawn in.
There are some really good characters that range from the outspoken to the more gentle and with a good range of traits that include vindictive, sly, aloof and downright nasty there is something to keep a sense of intrigue. This means that you will root for some and wait for the others to get their comeuppance.
Overall a great story to lose yourself in for a few hours, it is one that I found easy reading as well as very addictive. A little predictable at times but still very enjoyable. One for those that do like their historical fiction and romance that leans more towards the family saga style of story. One I would recommend and a great introduction for a new to me author.
March 4, 2021
The Hat Girl From Silver Street by Lindsey Hutchinson is an excellent historical fiction novel that I truly enjoyed.
This is the first book I have read by this author, and I am now a definite fan.
This book takes place in Victorian era England and follows the young woman, Ella Bancroft, as she tries to overcome the losses and obstacles in her past to create a life for herself. Despite all of the problems she has faced during her childhood, she is determined to find some ray of happiness and success. This story takes the reader with Ella as she finds herself, her purpose, and tries to find her place within her village to help her family stay afloat, and in the process she also hopes to one day find love.
I really liked Ella. She is smart, loyal, imperfect, like able, and stronger then she realizes. I loved her transformation throughout the story, and I enjoyed the twists and turns the author placed within that journey.
I really enjoyed this warm story and look forward to reading more from this talented author.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Boldwood Books for this excellent arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.
This is the first book I have read by this author, and I am now a definite fan.
This book takes place in Victorian era England and follows the young woman, Ella Bancroft, as she tries to overcome the losses and obstacles in her past to create a life for herself. Despite all of the problems she has faced during her childhood, she is determined to find some ray of happiness and success. This story takes the reader with Ella as she finds herself, her purpose, and tries to find her place within her village to help her family stay afloat, and in the process she also hopes to one day find love.
I really liked Ella. She is smart, loyal, imperfect, like able, and stronger then she realizes. I loved her transformation throughout the story, and I enjoyed the twists and turns the author placed within that journey.
I really enjoyed this warm story and look forward to reading more from this talented author.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Boldwood Books for this excellent arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication.
March 5, 2021
The Hat Girl from Silver Street by Lindsey Hutchinson grips the heart and gently twists it.
This historical fiction saga set in 1900 revolves around Ella, a sweet girl taking care of her depressed wheel-chair-bound father. Working in the millinery trade for a witch of a shopkeeper, she is barely holding body, soul, and home together.
With help from her father, she sets out to open a shop selling her own creations. Times are so hard in the Black Country, and they scrimp by until fortune begins to smile upon them. Then trouble once again finds poor Ella. Will she be able to overcome the heartbreak that follows her?
The cast of characters is well-defined. I promise you will either love or hate them. When I thought it was unrealistic that so much was working out for Ella and her friend Kitty, the rug is pulled out from under them.
The subject of depression is artfully woven throughout the story, which had to be accurate in that period of time. Life was so hard for common people.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. It made me laugh, cry, and even talk to the characters a time or two. If historical fiction is your genre, you will love this story. Please don't take my word for it; pick up a copy today and judge for yourself.
I read this book through Kindle Unlimited but did receive a copy for a blog tour.
This historical fiction saga set in 1900 revolves around Ella, a sweet girl taking care of her depressed wheel-chair-bound father. Working in the millinery trade for a witch of a shopkeeper, she is barely holding body, soul, and home together.
With help from her father, she sets out to open a shop selling her own creations. Times are so hard in the Black Country, and they scrimp by until fortune begins to smile upon them. Then trouble once again finds poor Ella. Will she be able to overcome the heartbreak that follows her?
The cast of characters is well-defined. I promise you will either love or hate them. When I thought it was unrealistic that so much was working out for Ella and her friend Kitty, the rug is pulled out from under them.
The subject of depression is artfully woven throughout the story, which had to be accurate in that period of time. Life was so hard for common people.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. It made me laugh, cry, and even talk to the characters a time or two. If historical fiction is your genre, you will love this story. Please don't take my word for it; pick up a copy today and judge for yourself.
I read this book through Kindle Unlimited but did receive a copy for a blog tour.
January 24, 2021
1900, walsall, Black Country, Ella Bancroft apprentice hat maker working for Ivy Gladwin at her shop, her father who is unable to work after an accident at the tube works they rely on Ella's wages, but she starts making mistakes and Ivy sends her packing. Back in 24 Silver Street Ella with her father's help decides to do her hat business from home and its a success and dashing Harper Fortescue and his mother are two of her first customers, the love between the couple is so strong but Harper is entering into a marriage of convenience and she is just a milliner what does the future hold for the couple. we meet lots of characters along the way in Ella's story and some heart breaking moments that will touch your heart. It's a beautiful book that reader's are going to love, A natural story teller this author's books just get better and better, this is one unique read.
October 28, 2021
What a miserable book. Poor Ella blighted over and over again. Initially I felt sad for her but by the end I was almost laughing at the ridiculousness of her tragedies. The last 10% of the book seemed to be written in a mad rush to pack in as much misery as possible. I love historical romances but this has to be one of my least favourite of all time. I give it two stars for readability, let down by far to much tea drinking, miserable and unpleasant characters, too much negativity and a rushed and far too miserable an ending. Worse than an episode of Eastenders... I wouldn’t bother if I were you, there’s many many better books out there.
March 14, 2021
Upsetting story line
This was a very different story which I enjoyed until the ending, I do not appreciate miserable endings,in future I shall give this author a miss. There is so much misery at the moment, I most certainly do not need to read more.
This was a very different story which I enjoyed until the ending, I do not appreciate miserable endings,in future I shall give this author a miss. There is so much misery at the moment, I most certainly do not need to read more.
November 10, 2021
totally absurd
this is a ridiculous book, unbelievable and has no basis in reality. I am sure that whomever wrote this, could absolutely do much better
this is a ridiculous book, unbelievable and has no basis in reality. I am sure that whomever wrote this, could absolutely do much better
June 4, 2022
Such a disappointing ending. Not worth the read.
June 2, 2023
Okay read
this wasn't a very good book. Very predictable and childish in the character development. Would not recommend. At least it was free.
this wasn't a very good book. Very predictable and childish in the character development. Would not recommend. At least it was free.
March 5, 2021
I have read a few of Lindsey’s books now and I have really enjoyed them. When I read the synopsis for ‘The Hat Girl From Silver Street’, I knew that I was going to be in for a treat. I was spot on too as reading ‘The Hat Girl From Silver Street’ was certainly a treat and I enjoyed every single minute of it but more about that in a bit.
I loved the character of Ella Bancroft and took to her from the very start. In fact I grew to consider her to be more a friend than a character in a book. She is a lovely young lady, who is working as a sort of apprentice/ assistance to an unpleasant woman, who treats Ella like a piece of dirt. Something happens and Ella is forced to leave her job. Ella is forced to find another way to bring the pennies in as she is the only wage earner in that house. Ella’s father and Ella come up with the idea of setting their own business up. Ella doesn’t have it easy at home either. She lives with her disabled father, who is only able to get about with the aid of a wheelchair. Ella has a sister, who is married to a workshy individual. Ella certainly has a lot on her plate.
It’s no word of a lie when I say that I was drawn into this story from the very first word on the very first page. The book seemed to develop a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t willing to break. I just couldn’t put the book down. The book wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. I think that part of my addiction to this book is down to the fact that I liked Ella so much and I had to find out what happened to her and to her family. I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough as I worked my way through the story. Then all too quickly I reached the end of the book and I had to bid farewell to Ella.
‘The Hat Girl From Silver Street’ is superbly written but then I think that to be true of Lindsey’s books in general. She certainly has a way of writing stories that really get under your skin and affect you emotionally. I found that on more than one occasion my eyes welled with tears and at other times I was saying random comments to the book as if the individual concerned could hear me. I find that if I enjoy a book to the extent that I enjoyed this one then I tend to ‘live’ the story as if it were real. ‘The Hat Girl From Silver Street’ certainly took me on one hell of an emotional rollercoaster ride. I found ‘The Hat Girl From Silver Street’ to be a gripping read, which held my attention from start to finish and it had me on the edge of my seat.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Hat Girl From Silver Street’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Lindsey’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I loved the character of Ella Bancroft and took to her from the very start. In fact I grew to consider her to be more a friend than a character in a book. She is a lovely young lady, who is working as a sort of apprentice/ assistance to an unpleasant woman, who treats Ella like a piece of dirt. Something happens and Ella is forced to leave her job. Ella is forced to find another way to bring the pennies in as she is the only wage earner in that house. Ella’s father and Ella come up with the idea of setting their own business up. Ella doesn’t have it easy at home either. She lives with her disabled father, who is only able to get about with the aid of a wheelchair. Ella has a sister, who is married to a workshy individual. Ella certainly has a lot on her plate.
It’s no word of a lie when I say that I was drawn into this story from the very first word on the very first page. The book seemed to develop a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t willing to break. I just couldn’t put the book down. The book wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. I think that part of my addiction to this book is down to the fact that I liked Ella so much and I had to find out what happened to her and to her family. I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough as I worked my way through the story. Then all too quickly I reached the end of the book and I had to bid farewell to Ella.
‘The Hat Girl From Silver Street’ is superbly written but then I think that to be true of Lindsey’s books in general. She certainly has a way of writing stories that really get under your skin and affect you emotionally. I found that on more than one occasion my eyes welled with tears and at other times I was saying random comments to the book as if the individual concerned could hear me. I find that if I enjoy a book to the extent that I enjoyed this one then I tend to ‘live’ the story as if it were real. ‘The Hat Girl From Silver Street’ certainly took me on one hell of an emotional rollercoaster ride. I found ‘The Hat Girl From Silver Street’ to be a gripping read, which held my attention from start to finish and it had me on the edge of my seat.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Hat Girl From Silver Street’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Lindsey’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
March 17, 2021
The Hat Girl from Silver Street by Lindsey Hutchinson is a historical fiction saga set in Victorian England. It is 1900 we are in the Black country, Walsall. Ella Bancroft is an apprentice hatmaker working in a shop. Her father has an accident at work so they live on Ella's wages alone, until the day she makes one mistake too many and is sacked.
Ella and her father set up a Milliners from their home with Ella making hats. The business takes of and she meets Harper, a dashing young man who falls for Ella as much as she falls for him. Their biggest issue is the marriage of convenience that Harper is already promised to. What hope is there for the couple when Ella is a lowly milliner? What does the future hold, if anything for this young couple?
What an emotional book such heartbreaking moments that tugged at my heartstrings. The characters we meet on Ella's journey along with Ella, are all well developed and give you the feeling of being back in the 1900s with them all. I adore a good saga as I love history and really enjoy being wrapped up in times gone by and all the problems people had then. I almost feel like I have an extended family whenever I finish a book such as this! A beautiful book that holds a beautiful tale. Another fantastic saga from the Boldwood stable of writers.
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the copy of the book today.
Ella and her father set up a Milliners from their home with Ella making hats. The business takes of and she meets Harper, a dashing young man who falls for Ella as much as she falls for him. Their biggest issue is the marriage of convenience that Harper is already promised to. What hope is there for the couple when Ella is a lowly milliner? What does the future hold, if anything for this young couple?
What an emotional book such heartbreaking moments that tugged at my heartstrings. The characters we meet on Ella's journey along with Ella, are all well developed and give you the feeling of being back in the 1900s with them all. I adore a good saga as I love history and really enjoy being wrapped up in times gone by and all the problems people had then. I almost feel like I have an extended family whenever I finish a book such as this! A beautiful book that holds a beautiful tale. Another fantastic saga from the Boldwood stable of writers.
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the copy of the book today.
July 18, 2022
My Blog
Wow! What a book. One that took me to heights of elation and slammed me back to earth in a matter of few pages.
Ella’s triumphs and tribulations had my insides in turmoil. One moment she would be rejoicing with happiness; the next moment she would be shedding tears over another setback.
The Hat Girl from Silver Street is an utterly gripping story. I finished the book in two days straight. I was mesmerized by Hutchinson’s writing skills. The story flowed smoothly. I eagerly kept on turning the pages to see how Ella would conquer all the challenges that life threw at her. With help from her near and dear ones, she succeeds but also learns a truth: sometimes, you cannot win. You simply must accept. I cannot divulge anything more than this.
I liked all the characters in the story. Not even one seemed a waste to me. Hutchinson breathes life into every character, each of whom contributes to the drama. However, Ella was my favorite due to her creativity and resilient spirit. Her father, Thomas, comes a close second due to his staunch support for Ella.
Despite a heartbreaking conclusion, I loved the book. Usually, I do not like tragic endings, however, that’s the power of Hutchinson’s writing. Highly recommended for lovers of historical and literary fiction.
A complimentary digital copy was provided to me by the publisher for review. It does not affect my opinion of the book.
Wow! What a book. One that took me to heights of elation and slammed me back to earth in a matter of few pages.
Ella’s triumphs and tribulations had my insides in turmoil. One moment she would be rejoicing with happiness; the next moment she would be shedding tears over another setback.
The Hat Girl from Silver Street is an utterly gripping story. I finished the book in two days straight. I was mesmerized by Hutchinson’s writing skills. The story flowed smoothly. I eagerly kept on turning the pages to see how Ella would conquer all the challenges that life threw at her. With help from her near and dear ones, she succeeds but also learns a truth: sometimes, you cannot win. You simply must accept. I cannot divulge anything more than this.
I liked all the characters in the story. Not even one seemed a waste to me. Hutchinson breathes life into every character, each of whom contributes to the drama. However, Ella was my favorite due to her creativity and resilient spirit. Her father, Thomas, comes a close second due to his staunch support for Ella.
Despite a heartbreaking conclusion, I loved the book. Usually, I do not like tragic endings, however, that’s the power of Hutchinson’s writing. Highly recommended for lovers of historical and literary fiction.
A complimentary digital copy was provided to me by the publisher for review. It does not affect my opinion of the book.
Read
March 5, 2021This is an engaging story of a young woman who is struggling to keep her family afloat. She is working as an assistant hat maker to a woman whose ideas are out of fashion and who isn't shy about stealing Ella's ideas. Her father decides that it is time for Ella to open her own shop.
The book deals with topics such as disability during this time period. Ella's father is unable to walk which strains the family finances. Through the book you see him moving out of depression to finding meaning and unexpected skills by helping Ella make hats. However, there is some derogatory language about disability used in Ella's mind when she described him as "emasculated" by not being able to walk. It didn't seem accurate or necessary for the story.
There are also a lot of considerations of class dynamics. Ella is working class and has her store front in her house in an unfashionable area of town. Her first customers are upper class. There is a woman who is engaged to a person in that supportive family who is horrified to be required to come to a working class house.
I'd recommend this book for fans of historical fiction with strong female characters who face a lot of adversity.
This review was originally posted on Based On A True Story
March 4, 2021
The Hat Girl From Silver Street by Lindsey Hutchinson is women’s fiction with a lot going on. In fact, it is a lot of things but not any one thing. One could almost consider it a story of friendship, or a historical family drama, or a romance, or a tragedy, or a story of friendship. It is all these things while also being a beautiful inspiring novel celebrating the resilience of the human spirit and the determination to pursue a dream.
I was quite taken with the character Ella Bancroft from the beginning. Events made her life one of two steps forward and one step backwards as the sayings goes. Cheerfulness and perseverance were two strong attributes of this character. Her life is not easy in Black Country at the turn of the century. Her approach is admirable and inspiring in what I thought would be a somewhat Cinderella story. Sadly, it is not, the conclusion is not at all what was expected.
I truly hope that this is not the last that will be seen of Ella and her friends. The ending was so shocking that I felt that something more must happen to Ella in a future book. Still I loved this story but while Ella accepts her seemingly future life, I cannot but hope for another visit to Ivella’s shop.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I was quite taken with the character Ella Bancroft from the beginning. Events made her life one of two steps forward and one step backwards as the sayings goes. Cheerfulness and perseverance were two strong attributes of this character. Her life is not easy in Black Country at the turn of the century. Her approach is admirable and inspiring in what I thought would be a somewhat Cinderella story. Sadly, it is not, the conclusion is not at all what was expected.
I truly hope that this is not the last that will be seen of Ella and her friends. The ending was so shocking that I felt that something more must happen to Ella in a future book. Still I loved this story but while Ella accepts her seemingly future life, I cannot but hope for another visit to Ivella’s shop.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 3, 2021
Thank you to Lindsey Hutchinson and Rachel's Random Resources for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The Hat Girl From Silver Street is one of the most dramatic books I've ever read. You have so much going on throughout the entire book; the drama doesn't end until the story does. The early pages of this novel draw you in right away with fantastic writing and enough spectacles to satisfy any lover of juicy drama. It's the type of book you don't want to end because you're so entertained that you could just remain in that world observing everything.
So let's talk about characters. Ella is the delightfully ordinary main character. There is literally nothing special about her but yet she is so perfect in her role. Hutchinson did an amazing job with this cast of characters. They all have such different personalities and perspectives. This is one cast of characters that won't be easily forgotten. From the quiet hat maker, to the jealous business woman, to the handsome rich guy, to the spiteful scorned woman, this book has it all. Also, I absolutely loved Ella's dad. He is the supportive person that every single person needs in their life.
My only critique is that a couple situations were resolved too easily for Ella. I feel like the parts where these issues were resolved could have been drawn out a little more.
I'm not a fan of book series by any means, however if the author ended up turning this book into a series and kept writing about these characters I would absolutely keep reading. I'd recommend The Hat Girl From Silver Street for anyone who would like a soap opera in literary form.
The Hat Girl From Silver Street is one of the most dramatic books I've ever read. You have so much going on throughout the entire book; the drama doesn't end until the story does. The early pages of this novel draw you in right away with fantastic writing and enough spectacles to satisfy any lover of juicy drama. It's the type of book you don't want to end because you're so entertained that you could just remain in that world observing everything.
So let's talk about characters. Ella is the delightfully ordinary main character. There is literally nothing special about her but yet she is so perfect in her role. Hutchinson did an amazing job with this cast of characters. They all have such different personalities and perspectives. This is one cast of characters that won't be easily forgotten. From the quiet hat maker, to the jealous business woman, to the handsome rich guy, to the spiteful scorned woman, this book has it all. Also, I absolutely loved Ella's dad. He is the supportive person that every single person needs in their life.
My only critique is that a couple situations were resolved too easily for Ella. I feel like the parts where these issues were resolved could have been drawn out a little more.
I'm not a fan of book series by any means, however if the author ended up turning this book into a series and kept writing about these characters I would absolutely keep reading. I'd recommend The Hat Girl From Silver Street for anyone who would like a soap opera in literary form.
April 27, 2022
I cheered Ella on during this book about a milliner who suffers several losses in her young life. Ella quits her job after her boss (Ivy) is very rude, critical, and just plain nasty to her. Not knowing what to do next she turns to her father for advice. Her father, who was crippled from a work accident, suggested she go into business designing and selling her own hats. He turned out to be quite adept at helping her with the process until he died from a heart attack.
The loss of her father devastated Ella and left her wondering how she would function without him. With very little money she decides to find an assistant that would work for room and board. Soon Kitty moves in and becomes not only her assistant but her best friend. Together they watch Ella's shop become a success until Ella's sister, Sally, sabotages her efforts.
The book has other well-developed characters (friend and foe) and some good, clean romance.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys books set in 1900s England. Keep those tissues close, you might need one here and there.
Enjoy
The loss of her father devastated Ella and left her wondering how she would function without him. With very little money she decides to find an assistant that would work for room and board. Soon Kitty moves in and becomes not only her assistant but her best friend. Together they watch Ella's shop become a success until Ella's sister, Sally, sabotages her efforts.
The book has other well-developed characters (friend and foe) and some good, clean romance.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys books set in 1900s England. Keep those tissues close, you might need one here and there.
Enjoy
March 9, 2021
Another gem from Lindsey Hutchinson!
What an inspirational and impressive young girl, Ella, is – I finished this book on International Women’s Day and it was totally fitting.
Ella is one of the strongest heroine’s I’ve had the pleasure to read for a very long time.
She lost her mum at a young age, her older sister wasn’t too helpful and her brother-in-law is even worse – I really felt for Ella, having to care for her dad and provide food and keep a roof over their heads.
Her boss took her for granted and treated her badly, so I was over the moon when she decided to start up her own business with the support of her father – this was an excellent move.
The book is written at a good pace and in the usual Lindsey Hutchinson writing style that draws you in, I love how real and relatable all the characters feel, I felt as if I knew them personally.
Read this book if you want a great story with an inspiring heroine.
What an inspirational and impressive young girl, Ella, is – I finished this book on International Women’s Day and it was totally fitting.
Ella is one of the strongest heroine’s I’ve had the pleasure to read for a very long time.
She lost her mum at a young age, her older sister wasn’t too helpful and her brother-in-law is even worse – I really felt for Ella, having to care for her dad and provide food and keep a roof over their heads.
Her boss took her for granted and treated her badly, so I was over the moon when she decided to start up her own business with the support of her father – this was an excellent move.
The book is written at a good pace and in the usual Lindsey Hutchinson writing style that draws you in, I love how real and relatable all the characters feel, I felt as if I knew them personally.
Read this book if you want a great story with an inspiring heroine.
March 9, 2021
How young Ella grows from being an apprentice to a slave driver of a milliner and establishes her own successful business makes for a remarkable story. She goes to work to support her wheelchair bound father, but then he finds that he can help her with setting up a business. Through her business she meets the man she falls in love with. But then trouble comes in many ways and Ella's spirit is tested.
This is a story of entrepreneurship, courage, loyalty and love that manages to draw you in although it is set in the 1900s. The characters in the story are so well defined - some mean, vindictive, some kind and gentle - and it's easy to get emotionally involved with the story. I found myself moved to tears at times, and smiling at other times as I got so caught up in this beautifully told story.
This is my first book from this author, but I'm certainly going to be looking out for more from her as her writing reminds me of Catherine Cookson, whose books I grew up with.
This is a story of entrepreneurship, courage, loyalty and love that manages to draw you in although it is set in the 1900s. The characters in the story are so well defined - some mean, vindictive, some kind and gentle - and it's easy to get emotionally involved with the story. I found myself moved to tears at times, and smiling at other times as I got so caught up in this beautifully told story.
This is my first book from this author, but I'm certainly going to be looking out for more from her as her writing reminds me of Catherine Cookson, whose books I grew up with.
February 20, 2024
Cute, but terrible ending
I chose to rate this book 3 stars because it was really a cute story until the end. The British slang was a little hard to understand for an American like myself, but with the help of kindle search and the context of the sentences, I was able to enjoy the book pretty much. There were a couple of spelling errors, but not enough to deter me from finishing the book. The characters were well written, and I loved most and hated some as if they were real people. I'm not a fan of the kind of ending this book has, so that is the make reason for only 3 stars. I would recommend a book little this for teenage girls to ladies of a more mature nature, as there is a couple of British curse words(not 18+ words, but I wouldn't want a 12 year old reading them). A guy may find it a little too mushy for their tastes, but I will not judge a man for enjoying it if they chose to read this.
I chose to rate this book 3 stars because it was really a cute story until the end. The British slang was a little hard to understand for an American like myself, but with the help of kindle search and the context of the sentences, I was able to enjoy the book pretty much. There were a couple of spelling errors, but not enough to deter me from finishing the book. The characters were well written, and I loved most and hated some as if they were real people. I'm not a fan of the kind of ending this book has, so that is the make reason for only 3 stars. I would recommend a book little this for teenage girls to ladies of a more mature nature, as there is a couple of British curse words(not 18+ words, but I wouldn't want a 12 year old reading them). A guy may find it a little too mushy for their tastes, but I will not judge a man for enjoying it if they chose to read this.
September 17, 2021
I always have loved anything that has come from the British Isles. My Mom is from Luton, England. She immigrated to USA in the 1950s. I have visited a few times to England. Luton is known for making hats back in the day. I was told my Nannie worked at one when she was younger. So naturally I was drawn to this book just because of the title.
What a story! Ella was the "hat girl". She had a tough life but she was determined to make her life better. Her talent was in designing and making hats.
I enjoyed the book and landed up reading it in one night. But I will be honest, I was really upset with the ending. It surprised me. I wasn't expecting it to end the way it did. I would love to read a sequel to this book and further follow Bella's journey.
What a story! Ella was the "hat girl". She had a tough life but she was determined to make her life better. Her talent was in designing and making hats.
I enjoyed the book and landed up reading it in one night. But I will be honest, I was really upset with the ending. It surprised me. I wasn't expecting it to end the way it did. I would love to read a sequel to this book and further follow Bella's journey.
May 2, 2021
I really enjoyed this story and could not put the book down.
Ella works for a milliner but finds the woman she works with not a very nice person.
Ella’s Father is a cripple due to a accident at his work and is unable to work but seems to be really good with his hands. Ella’s Father suggests she set up on her own as her designs are really good.
She goes ahead and business is really good she acquires richer clientele who recommends her to their friends.
I found the book sad but happy in places and it was funny with some of the things that happened.
The only thing is I wasn’t so keen on the ending but won’t give that away.
I would recommend this book.
Ella works for a milliner but finds the woman she works with not a very nice person.
Ella’s Father is a cripple due to a accident at his work and is unable to work but seems to be really good with his hands. Ella’s Father suggests she set up on her own as her designs are really good.
She goes ahead and business is really good she acquires richer clientele who recommends her to their friends.
I found the book sad but happy in places and it was funny with some of the things that happened.
The only thing is I wasn’t so keen on the ending but won’t give that away.
I would recommend this book.
May 3, 2021
Copy from Netgalley in exchange for a non bias and honest review.
'The Hat Girl from Silver Street', doesn't sound that interesting but, my word, it will drawn in from the first line right until the last word, just like it did me.
More up and downs than a roller coaster, I loved all the individual characters especially Ella and her father, a lovely bond between them.
A very well written book, happy, sad and lots of whit, I'm sure you'll love it as such as I did.
Most definitely recommend you read it, it will not disappoint.
'The Hat Girl from Silver Street', doesn't sound that interesting but, my word, it will drawn in from the first line right until the last word, just like it did me.
More up and downs than a roller coaster, I loved all the individual characters especially Ella and her father, a lovely bond between them.
A very well written book, happy, sad and lots of whit, I'm sure you'll love it as such as I did.
Most definitely recommend you read it, it will not disappoint.
July 19, 2025
A lovely read,but poor Ella thought she had lost everything when her father died, and her selfish sister wanted to sell her dead Fathers bedroom furniture, and her dead Mother’s ring, but Ella refused to do it? Ella thought she would take in a lodger to help with the rent, and in comes the lovely Kitty, and things start to look up!
Then Ella meets the charming Harper, and she falls for him, and kitty falls for the handsome Felix, I cannot say more without giving the book away, so please read it’s a five star ⭐️
Then Ella meets the charming Harper, and she falls for him, and kitty falls for the handsome Felix, I cannot say more without giving the book away, so please read it’s a five star ⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2023
Strong female characters
I liked the characters and the twists. The shifting of tenses mid sentence was disruptive to the flow in a few places. I questioned the main character calling the customers and older people by their first name, especially those above her station as that would not have been acceptable. There's the mention of a telephone but the wealthy people are still using carriages. I would have liked a tidier wrap up. The story kept me interested throughout.
I liked the characters and the twists. The shifting of tenses mid sentence was disruptive to the flow in a few places. I questioned the main character calling the customers and older people by their first name, especially those above her station as that would not have been acceptable. There's the mention of a telephone but the wealthy people are still using carriages. I would have liked a tidier wrap up. The story kept me interested throughout.
October 25, 2023
I never write reviews, but this book was something else. The writing was choppy, at best. It bounces around between way too many characters, the story lines are wildly dramatic, and the ending - just why? WHY! But dang it, I couldn't stop reading it. I'm not sure if I should recommend this to anyone or not, but here I am telling you that I read it in 2 days, and as a mom of 2 young kids, let me tell you, that means I now have to spend my next 5 days catching up on laundry. That's laundry math for you.
July 2, 2024
How does drivel like that ever get published? The majority of it would be suitable for twelve year olds with all these instant falling in loves and rapidly successful business endeavors.
October 25, 2021
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review,
Ella Bancroft literally pulls herself up as a talented milliner in Victorian England. At first employed by a jealous employer, Ella manages to establish herself in her home as a milliner, and soon many ladies from her town shop up to buy her wares. Sensitive and poignant, this is a well written novel and worth the read.
Ella Bancroft literally pulls herself up as a talented milliner in Victorian England. At first employed by a jealous employer, Ella manages to establish herself in her home as a milliner, and soon many ladies from her town shop up to buy her wares. Sensitive and poignant, this is a well written novel and worth the read.
June 12, 2023
Great read,but not my usual genre.
Very fast page turner with good characters & kept my interest.
Sisters can be a blessing or a curse,in this instance, you decide?
Poor milliner & rich boy fall instantly in love,when he comes to buy a hat,but their love is not to be.
Tuberculosis, was stalking the town.
Spoiled rich girl takes a licking in matrimony.
Very fast page turner with good characters & kept my interest.
Sisters can be a blessing or a curse,in this instance, you decide?
Poor milliner & rich boy fall instantly in love,when he comes to buy a hat,but their love is not to be.
Tuberculosis, was stalking the town.
Spoiled rich girl takes a licking in matrimony.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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