The Seamstress of New Orleans: Sneak Peek

by Diane C. McPhail

Be one of the first to read this sneak preview sample edition of Diane McPhail’s mesmerizing new historical novel set a gainst the backdrop of the first all-female Mardi Gras krewe in turn-of-the-century New Orleans, revealing the tale of two strangers separated by background but bound by an unexpected secret—and of the strength and courage women draw from and inspire in each other.
 
The year 1900 ushers in a new century and the promise of social change, and women rise together toward equality. Yet rules and restrictions remain, especially for women like Alice Butterworth, whose husband has abruptly disappeared. Desperate to make a living for herself and the child she carries, Alice leaves the bitter cold of Chicago far behind, offering sewing lessons at a New Orleans orphanage.
 
Constance Halstead, a young widow reeling with shock under the threat of her late husband’s gambling debts, has thrown herself into charitable work. Meeting Alice at the orphanage, she offers lodging in exchange for Alice’s help creating a gown for the Leap Year ball of Les Mysterieuses, the first all‑female krewe of Mardi Gras. During Leap Years, women have the rare opportunity to take control in their interactions with men, and upend social convention. Piece by piece, the breathtaking gown takes shape, becoming a symbol of strength for both women, reflecting their progress toward greater independence.
 
But Constance carries a burden that makes it impossible to feel truly free. Her husband, Benton, whose death remains a dangerous mystery, was deep in debt to the Black Hand, the vicious gangsters who controled New Orleans’ notorious Storyville district. Benton’s death has not satisfied them. And as the Mardi Gras festivities reach their fruition, a secret emerges that will cement the bond between Alice and Constance even as it threatens the lives they’re building . . .

53 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 9, 2022

About the author

Diane C. McPhail is an artist, writer, and minister. In addition to holding an M.F.A., an M.A., and D.Min., she has studied at the University of Iowa distance learning and the Yale Writers’ Workshop, among others. Diane is a member of North Carolina Writers' Network and the Historical Novel Society. She lives in Highlands, North Carolina, with her husband.

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very wordy book for as little of a story there is... the tie that binds the 2 FMCs is glaringly obvious from the beginning, and it took way too long to unpack for my taste..plus the redundance🤯

It reminded me of British dramas... too much dialogue and nothing ever really happens and the emotions are acted subtly.

I did like the background of New Orleans Mardi Gras history peppered throughout.

[Diane · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was excited to read The Seamstress of New Orleans. Having family in the area and loving the rich history of New Orleans, I was sure this would be a hit for me. Unfortunately, it fell flat. I was listening to the audio version, which may have contributed to my having some difficulty keeping track of the characters - I would rewind and listen to pieces twice. The story was extremely slow and really dragged. I did not feel there was much of a plot given the wealth of material that was available. Knowing how much work goes into writing a book, it is painful to give a low review, however I just never made a connection with the material.

[carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

read this book twice, can't put it down after reading, and I want more!

[Ckc · Rating 2 out of 5]

Tedious. Repetitious.

[Crystal Peplinski · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars. Well written and memorable

[Janet Hildebrandt · Rating 2 out of 5]

I like the character and plot ideas, but it didn't quite live up to them.

[Leslie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Could see it coming from the first chapters- it was telling, not showing. I prefer the opposite.

[Janet Hutcheson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really do want to reread this book. It was about the second only all female Krewe during Marci Gras in the year 1900. Lots of interesting facts during this time period and the story kept me guessing until the very end. I may have missed this but the one thing I just don’t understand is why Constance didn’t have any photos of her husband displayed for their children. Even with a bad marriage, Benton was the children’s father …..thank you Penguin Random House and #BetweenTheChapters! for sending me this advanced copy. It will be available May 31, 2022

[Virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.