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The Tobacco Wives
Most anticipated by USA Today, W Magazine, New York Post, Parade, Bustle, Buzzfeed, Reader's Digest, and PopSugar and named one of the best historical fiction books of the year by Cosmopolitan ! "A beautifully rendered portrait of a young woman finding her courage and her voice." — Lisa Wingate , #1 New York Times bestselling author North Carolina, 1946. One woman. A discovery that could rewrite history. Maddie Sykes is a burgeoning seamstress who’s just arrived in Bright Leaf, North Carolina—the tobacco capital of the South—where her aunt has a thriving sewing business. After years of war rations and shortages, Bright Leaf is a prosperous wonderland in full technicolor bloom, and Maddie is dazzled by the bustle of the crisply uniformed female factory workers, the palatial homes, and, most of all, her aunt’s glossiest the wives of the powerful tobacco executives. But she soon learns that Bright Leaf isn’t quite the carefree paradise that it seems. A trail of misfortune follows many of the women, including substantial health problems, and although Maddie is quick to believe that this is a coincidence, she inadvertently uncovers evidence that suggests otherwise. Maddie wants to report what she knows, but in a town where everyone depends on Big Tobacco to survive, she doesn’t know who she can trust—and fears that exposing the truth may destroy the lives of the proud, strong women with whom she has forged strong bonds. Shedding light on the hidden history of women’s activism during the post-war period, at its heart, The Tobacco Wives is a deeply human, emotionally satisfying, and dramatic novel about the power of female connection and the importance of seeking truth. “This is a story of courage, of women willing to take a stand in the face of corporate greed, and most definitely a tale for our times.” —Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author
352 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2022
1226 people are currently reading
37338 people want to read
About the author
Adele Myers
2 books403 followersAdele Myers grew up in Asheville, North Carolina, and has a journalism degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She currently works in advertising and lives in Brooklyn, New York, with her husband, son, and their rescue dog Chipper. The Tobacco Wives is her first novel.
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March 9, 2022
15-year-old Maddie Sykes is a young Southern teen who dreams of someday becoming a renowned seamstress, just like her aunt Etta, who she would visit in Bright Leaf, North Carolina and learn the craft from each summer. After losing her father in World War II, Maddie is becoming increasingly distant from her mother, who in her grief and anger has switched her focus from mothering Maddie to finding a new husband that can take care of the two of them. In order to fully focus on that effort, Maddie's mother dumps her at her aunt's home with no notice to either Maddie or Etta, in the middle of Etta's busiest dressmaking season. It's the beginning of the summer in 1946, and all of the wives of the tobacco executives at the Bright Leaf Tobacco Company are gearing up for the company's annual gala, the biggest event of the year. Traditionally, these glamorous tobacco wives seek out Etta's renowned seamstress skills to create divine dresses that showcase their good looks and important roles within the town. Maddie feels just awful that her mother has burdened Etta with caring for her that summer, but Etta decides that she can use the extra hands from her talented niece to get all of the work done that summer.
As the two are just getting started on preparations for the gala dresses, Etta falls ill and is unable to work for some time. The task falls to Maddie, who with the support of several friendly faces around town, works furiously over the course of several weeks to make sure all of the ladies of Bright Leaf look their very best come gala time. While her aunt is in the hospital, Elizabeth "Mitzi" Winston, wife of the CEO of Bright Leaf tobacco Richard Winston and the most prominent of the tobacco wives, takes Maddie under her wing. Mitzi is gorgeous and gregarious, but mysteriously still without children, even though Maddie thinks she has to be at least 30 by now. All that untapped motherly energy is diverted towards both Maddie as well as Mitzi and Richard's other charge, David, who has a keen eye for Maddie upon her arrival. While she is staying with the Winston family and sewing together lavish creations for all of the ladies in town, Maddie accidentally stumbles upon a discovery about the tobacco industry that sustains the entire community—a discovery that could threaten the very livelihood of the women for whom she is creating these dresses. She is torn between two worlds: a world in which everyone's health is prioritized, and a world in which the community's economy is. Will Maddie expose the tobacco industry for the health hazard that it is? Will anyone believe her if she does? Or will she keep this information to herself for the sake of the jobs that sustain the good folks of Bright Leaf?
Despite a few blunders, I really enjoyed this debut novel from Adele Myers. Maddie is a really fun character—sweet, bold, talented, and determined. Mitzi is an equally engaging character, and one with a bit more depth. These two shone the brightest particularly when they were defending one another. The relationship between these two characters was perhaps my favorite part of this book, but I really wish that it had been better handled in the back portion of the book. I think it would have made much more sense for these two characters to collaborate and negotiate to get what they want, especially because this is at its heart a coming-of-age story, and those are two values that teenagers need to be armed with to make a transition into full-fledged adulthood. The other characters in this story are fairly onenote, and their motivations didn't always make a ton of sense to me. Maddie's mother and her actions were really nothing more than a vehicle for Maddie's wild Bright Leaf summer, Cornelia and Ashley both had a lot of potential that I felt was left untapped, and even Maddie herself is really frustrating in the epilogue and end of the book. Another thing that bugged me a lot about the characterizations in this book was the ambiguity with which sexual orientation was handled. Maybe it gave the villians in this story a bit more leverage, but it felt like a tool or a token more than a real reckoning of what it meant to be gay or a lesbian in the 1940s South, and Anthony, Etta, and Frances all deserved better in this regard. If you had to choose a minority discussion to add to this book, I think a discussion of race would have been much more relevant to the story and setting than a discussion of sexuality. I appreciate the author's attempt to add diversity into her book somehow but I think she made the wrong choice when it came time to execute. This book had a really unique subject, and I loved the plot and setting, but the characters fell terribly short, which is too bad because they could have made this book a home run with just a little more time left to bake in the proverbial oven.
The pacing was also pretty off in this book. I was engaged throughout, but suddenly we were travelling at warp speed towards the end there, and it all wrapped up so fast with very little falling action that I think would have really helped it out. I was ready to give this book 4 stars until I got to the epilogue. God, that was a horrible epilogue! The conversation between Mitzi and Maddie years after the events of the novel was so forced and clunky and awkward and awful. I would have much preferred to see the direct fallout following the climax of this book at the gala than to skip ahead a ton of years. The epilogue felt ultra preachy and just weird.
Where this book really sparkles is in its setting. I felt transported to the tobacco-fueled economy of 1940s North Carolina, and loved reading about the town, its ladies, their gossip, and especially their dresses. The tobacco industry at this time was a subject I knew very little about. I found it fascinating how much misinformation surrounding smoking was available to the public less than a century ago. "It's great for your lungs, cures a cough, and calms expecting mothers!" I'm sorry, what???? Truly hard to believe. It was very fun learning about this piece of history and getting a little insight into what life was like for women nearing the end of the war when the men began to return and take their jobs back; guess what? Those ladies wanted to keep those jobs, and a lot of changes sprang forth from this moment. This in particular is the reason I chose this book as one of my Women's History Month reads. Yes, it had some glaring oddities, but ultimately, I was swept away reading this book and would happily recommend it to fans of Kristin Hannah, Delia Owens, and Elizabeth Gilbert!
As the two are just getting started on preparations for the gala dresses, Etta falls ill and is unable to work for some time. The task falls to Maddie, who with the support of several friendly faces around town, works furiously over the course of several weeks to make sure all of the ladies of Bright Leaf look their very best come gala time. While her aunt is in the hospital, Elizabeth "Mitzi" Winston, wife of the CEO of Bright Leaf tobacco Richard Winston and the most prominent of the tobacco wives, takes Maddie under her wing. Mitzi is gorgeous and gregarious, but mysteriously still without children, even though Maddie thinks she has to be at least 30 by now. All that untapped motherly energy is diverted towards both Maddie as well as Mitzi and Richard's other charge, David, who has a keen eye for Maddie upon her arrival. While she is staying with the Winston family and sewing together lavish creations for all of the ladies in town, Maddie accidentally stumbles upon a discovery about the tobacco industry that sustains the entire community—a discovery that could threaten the very livelihood of the women for whom she is creating these dresses. She is torn between two worlds: a world in which everyone's health is prioritized, and a world in which the community's economy is. Will Maddie expose the tobacco industry for the health hazard that it is? Will anyone believe her if she does? Or will she keep this information to herself for the sake of the jobs that sustain the good folks of Bright Leaf?
Despite a few blunders, I really enjoyed this debut novel from Adele Myers. Maddie is a really fun character—sweet, bold, talented, and determined. Mitzi is an equally engaging character, and one with a bit more depth. These two shone the brightest particularly when they were defending one another. The relationship between these two characters was perhaps my favorite part of this book, but I really wish that it had been better handled in the back portion of the book. I think it would have made much more sense for these two characters to collaborate and negotiate to get what they want, especially because this is at its heart a coming-of-age story, and those are two values that teenagers need to be armed with to make a transition into full-fledged adulthood. The other characters in this story are fairly onenote, and their motivations didn't always make a ton of sense to me. Maddie's mother and her actions were really nothing more than a vehicle for Maddie's wild Bright Leaf summer, Cornelia and Ashley both had a lot of potential that I felt was left untapped, and even Maddie herself is really frustrating in the epilogue and end of the book. Another thing that bugged me a lot about the characterizations in this book was the ambiguity with which sexual orientation was handled. Maybe it gave the villians in this story a bit more leverage, but it felt like a tool or a token more than a real reckoning of what it meant to be gay or a lesbian in the 1940s South, and Anthony, Etta, and Frances all deserved better in this regard. If you had to choose a minority discussion to add to this book, I think a discussion of race would have been much more relevant to the story and setting than a discussion of sexuality. I appreciate the author's attempt to add diversity into her book somehow but I think she made the wrong choice when it came time to execute. This book had a really unique subject, and I loved the plot and setting, but the characters fell terribly short, which is too bad because they could have made this book a home run with just a little more time left to bake in the proverbial oven.
The pacing was also pretty off in this book. I was engaged throughout, but suddenly we were travelling at warp speed towards the end there, and it all wrapped up so fast with very little falling action that I think would have really helped it out. I was ready to give this book 4 stars until I got to the epilogue. God, that was a horrible epilogue! The conversation between Mitzi and Maddie years after the events of the novel was so forced and clunky and awkward and awful. I would have much preferred to see the direct fallout following the climax of this book at the gala than to skip ahead a ton of years. The epilogue felt ultra preachy and just weird.
Where this book really sparkles is in its setting. I felt transported to the tobacco-fueled economy of 1940s North Carolina, and loved reading about the town, its ladies, their gossip, and especially their dresses. The tobacco industry at this time was a subject I knew very little about. I found it fascinating how much misinformation surrounding smoking was available to the public less than a century ago. "It's great for your lungs, cures a cough, and calms expecting mothers!" I'm sorry, what???? Truly hard to believe. It was very fun learning about this piece of history and getting a little insight into what life was like for women nearing the end of the war when the men began to return and take their jobs back; guess what? Those ladies wanted to keep those jobs, and a lot of changes sprang forth from this moment. This in particular is the reason I chose this book as one of my Women's History Month reads. Yes, it had some glaring oddities, but ultimately, I was swept away reading this book and would happily recommend it to fans of Kristin Hannah, Delia Owens, and Elizabeth Gilbert!
March 6, 2022
Maddie is a seamstress who has just moved to Bright Leaf, North Carolina, a tobacco capital, to help her aunt with her sewing business. Her aunt’s top clients are the wives of tobacco executives.
Maddie suddenly becomes the lead seamstress and is tasked with creating their gowns for the big gala. What she finds is an underbelly of health issues in these women, and she is drawn to say something while also being terrified of the consequences.
Growing up in North Carolina with its long tobacco history, this hidden story of activism, especially women’s activism, was completely new to me. It took many years for the effects of tobacco to be exposed, and this book uncovers why.
At its heart, this is Maddie’s coming-of-age; entertaining and a joy to read. The author’s note and connection to the story are not to be missed.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Maddie suddenly becomes the lead seamstress and is tasked with creating their gowns for the big gala. What she finds is an underbelly of health issues in these women, and she is drawn to say something while also being terrified of the consequences.
Growing up in North Carolina with its long tobacco history, this hidden story of activism, especially women’s activism, was completely new to me. It took many years for the effects of tobacco to be exposed, and this book uncovers why.
At its heart, this is Maddie’s coming-of-age; entertaining and a joy to read. The author’s note and connection to the story are not to be missed.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
March 19, 2022
Such a fascinating book!! ❤️ I have been wanting to read this book from the first time I heard about it....which is odd for me for many reasons...I admit that I don't read alot of Historical Fiction, I have never smoked and I have never had any interest in the history of Big Tabacco....so why did I HAVE to get this book ASAP? The premise, the cover, the writing....all amazing...what a fantastic debut.
The south in the 1940's...I never imagined how big of a role the Tabacco Industry played. It was almost as if the owners were royalty. I could picture the glamourous woman in their fancy dresses...smoking their cigarettes. Everything....and I do mean everything...revolved around...cigarettes- jobs, social events...even motherhood...that's right ladies...light up to calm your nerves a bit while you are pregnant. We have a cigarette for that! Designed just for you ladies..OMG right?
What I loved most about this book is that it really made me think about " how far we have come baby." You will only get that line if you are of a certain generation. Remember- Joe the Camel? How about asking to sit in the smoking or non smoking section at a restaurant? Wow we have come a long way.
So this book really begs to question- when exactly did Big Tabacco realize the dangers of smoking? Tabacco being such a big part of their lives in NC that literally everyone had a tie with it. It was so interesting and eye opening to learn more about this time in history.
I loved Maddie's story and I really enjoyed how it wrapped up. Intriguing, entertaining and a absolutely wonderful debut.
Thank you so much to my partners Bibliolifestyle and William Morrow for my gifted copy.
The south in the 1940's...I never imagined how big of a role the Tabacco Industry played. It was almost as if the owners were royalty. I could picture the glamourous woman in their fancy dresses...smoking their cigarettes. Everything....and I do mean everything...revolved around...cigarettes- jobs, social events...even motherhood...that's right ladies...light up to calm your nerves a bit while you are pregnant. We have a cigarette for that! Designed just for you ladies..OMG right?
What I loved most about this book is that it really made me think about " how far we have come baby." You will only get that line if you are of a certain generation. Remember- Joe the Camel? How about asking to sit in the smoking or non smoking section at a restaurant? Wow we have come a long way.
So this book really begs to question- when exactly did Big Tabacco realize the dangers of smoking? Tabacco being such a big part of their lives in NC that literally everyone had a tie with it. It was so interesting and eye opening to learn more about this time in history.
I loved Maddie's story and I really enjoyed how it wrapped up. Intriguing, entertaining and a absolutely wonderful debut.
Thank you so much to my partners Bibliolifestyle and William Morrow for my gifted copy.
March 23, 2022
rarely do i ever find myself saying “this book would work better as a movie,” but here i am. this book would work better as a movie.
‘tobacco wives’ read more like a script than an actual novel. the dialogue was all “he said, she said.” with no emotive backing.
i’m also getting really tired of books that market themselves as “historical fiction” yet have no root in historicity. ‘tobacco wives’ is set in north carolina in the year 1946, yet myers admits to borrowing research/ details from later decades. it doesn’t come across as anachronistic, but rather lazy. there’s no need for this historical setting if it’s not ground in any historical truth and any mention of historical truths were just glossed over.
there was so much opportunity to talk about gender stereotypes, labor exploitation, racial/gender income inequality, unionization, repercussions of tobacco usage, but those plot points were incredibly neglected for the sake of describing maddie’s fugly dresses.
‘tobacco wives’ reminds me a lot of an american girl doll movie.. like “how this 10 year old girl was solely responsible for the revolutionary war” vibes (no shade to felicity merriman, she’s my ride or die). but imagine that plot with a target audience for people above the age of 8… that’s this book. some random 15 year old girl talking to major tobacco executives whilst designing couture gowns for all of their wives? come on now.
‘tobacco wives’ read more like a script than an actual novel. the dialogue was all “he said, she said.” with no emotive backing.
i’m also getting really tired of books that market themselves as “historical fiction” yet have no root in historicity. ‘tobacco wives’ is set in north carolina in the year 1946, yet myers admits to borrowing research/ details from later decades. it doesn’t come across as anachronistic, but rather lazy. there’s no need for this historical setting if it’s not ground in any historical truth and any mention of historical truths were just glossed over.
there was so much opportunity to talk about gender stereotypes, labor exploitation, racial/gender income inequality, unionization, repercussions of tobacco usage, but those plot points were incredibly neglected for the sake of describing maddie’s fugly dresses.
‘tobacco wives’ reminds me a lot of an american girl doll movie.. like “how this 10 year old girl was solely responsible for the revolutionary war” vibes (no shade to felicity merriman, she’s my ride or die). but imagine that plot with a target audience for people above the age of 8… that’s this book. some random 15 year old girl talking to major tobacco executives whilst designing couture gowns for all of their wives? come on now.
March 22, 2022
Maddie is whisked from her home in the Appalachian Holler to go to a city built on tobacco in North Carolina (think world famous cigarette maker) by her Momma to live temporarily with her Aunt Etta. World War 2 is wrapping up (this is only a historical reference) and those women, who stepped up to fill the various factory jobs are unhappy that they will be soon displaced by the war veterans. Maddie is suddenly thrust into working with her Aunt during the Party Season for the community elite and must grow-up fast and learning her place in this world.
The storyline pacing maintained my interest throughout. I found myself intrigued by Maddie's role at age 15 and being plucked down in a life very foreign to her past. It reflected my own experiences of moving from a Northern suburban community to a small, remote and very wealthy enclave set in the midst of a backward, dusty Southern town that had 100 years prior been the setting of a large plantation community where many of the descendents remained and still viewing their lives in the shadow of that bygone era. It was oppressive for me and many. While at school I felt as though a time traveler (they had just integrated the school 2 years earlier in 1977 and it seemed few were happy about that change!). Meanwhile, I worked at the only grocery store in this large enclave, where most people shopping seldom worried about their next meal and they were to busy planning their next holiday to consider the plight of their neighbors. As I struggled to understand these diverse scenarios, I was frequently reminded not being to show my outspoken personality, to come across as a mere servant at times, as does Maddie. As a result, we were both privy to some secrets and had to sort our own ethical conclusions (mine involved the Klan).
Maddie realizes that she has accessed some very disturbing information that the tobacco company wants hidden and when she challenges those in power, she is dealt a hard hand.
I loved Maddie. She is portrayed as a mature, young lady with a solid moral code and rising to unexpected challenges. She tries to be loyal, hardworking and keep her commitments but that doesn't mean she doesn't struggle with self-doubt, fear and loss over the father, who recently died in combat and a mother, who seems to self-absorbed to realize that Maddie is grieving and needs her guidance. Despite these challenges, Maddie realizes that life isn't as simple as it may appear, even for those in power and those who benefit from the hardwork of others. Nor do those who seem to have easy lives get spared from pain and heartache.
Maddie made a good heroine. The supporting roles could have been a little more fleshed out than they were, a few were intriguing (Mitzy, her benefactor of sorts, beckoned for further development) and I would have liked to see more interaction with them. For those who are thinking this will be a boring story because of the sewing aspect, don't worry, it is primarily a backdrop to drive the story.
Interspersed within the story is how a community that relies on one product for its sole means of survival, results in the house of cards that follows. The secret kept empowers some while harming others, we witness worker needs at times being ignored or subjugated because they have no power and how they strategize to gain a voice. Though not a political story, it brings perspective to the reader of the workings behind the scene of a big corporation and the "company town". I too observed this in the community I had moved though their were different driving aspects. BTW, within a short time, I promised myself, I would never live in such close quarters with a limited number of people if I could help it. Maddie also chooses a different path in life.
Though this story gives us a glimpse of some interesting historic issues, it is universal in the challenges various characters face It was serious in topic but she manages a lot of entertaining exchanges to keep it somewhat light-hearted. I do not anticipant any reviewer saying it was a slog to read, though some many not like the historic perspective delivered, Myers definitely knows to engage her reader!
Ms. Myers created fictional characters from stories of those who lived in that region (including her own family members) and kept the story authentic to the life and times of the era. Her extensive research shines though she does not drop facts just to show us she did research, instead she saves those details for the afterword which I enjoyed. This was a 10 year work in process as she has lived her other hours working a full-time job as a journalist, wife and mom. I'm looking forward to her future efforts (I do hope there will be more).
Recommend for those who enjoy historic fiction especially young adult. It is more a historical drama than a coming of age, no whiny characters or mean girls here.
The storyline pacing maintained my interest throughout. I found myself intrigued by Maddie's role at age 15 and being plucked down in a life very foreign to her past. It reflected my own experiences of moving from a Northern suburban community to a small, remote and very wealthy enclave set in the midst of a backward, dusty Southern town that had 100 years prior been the setting of a large plantation community where many of the descendents remained and still viewing their lives in the shadow of that bygone era. It was oppressive for me and many. While at school I felt as though a time traveler (they had just integrated the school 2 years earlier in 1977 and it seemed few were happy about that change!). Meanwhile, I worked at the only grocery store in this large enclave, where most people shopping seldom worried about their next meal and they were to busy planning their next holiday to consider the plight of their neighbors. As I struggled to understand these diverse scenarios, I was frequently reminded not being to show my outspoken personality, to come across as a mere servant at times, as does Maddie. As a result, we were both privy to some secrets and had to sort our own ethical conclusions (mine involved the Klan).
Maddie realizes that she has accessed some very disturbing information that the tobacco company wants hidden and when she challenges those in power, she is dealt a hard hand.
I loved Maddie. She is portrayed as a mature, young lady with a solid moral code and rising to unexpected challenges. She tries to be loyal, hardworking and keep her commitments but that doesn't mean she doesn't struggle with self-doubt, fear and loss over the father, who recently died in combat and a mother, who seems to self-absorbed to realize that Maddie is grieving and needs her guidance. Despite these challenges, Maddie realizes that life isn't as simple as it may appear, even for those in power and those who benefit from the hardwork of others. Nor do those who seem to have easy lives get spared from pain and heartache.
Maddie made a good heroine. The supporting roles could have been a little more fleshed out than they were, a few were intriguing (Mitzy, her benefactor of sorts, beckoned for further development) and I would have liked to see more interaction with them. For those who are thinking this will be a boring story because of the sewing aspect, don't worry, it is primarily a backdrop to drive the story.
Interspersed within the story is how a community that relies on one product for its sole means of survival, results in the house of cards that follows. The secret kept empowers some while harming others, we witness worker needs at times being ignored or subjugated because they have no power and how they strategize to gain a voice. Though not a political story, it brings perspective to the reader of the workings behind the scene of a big corporation and the "company town". I too observed this in the community I had moved though their were different driving aspects. BTW, within a short time, I promised myself, I would never live in such close quarters with a limited number of people if I could help it. Maddie also chooses a different path in life.
Though this story gives us a glimpse of some interesting historic issues, it is universal in the challenges various characters face It was serious in topic but she manages a lot of entertaining exchanges to keep it somewhat light-hearted. I do not anticipant any reviewer saying it was a slog to read, though some many not like the historic perspective delivered, Myers definitely knows to engage her reader!
Ms. Myers created fictional characters from stories of those who lived in that region (including her own family members) and kept the story authentic to the life and times of the era. Her extensive research shines though she does not drop facts just to show us she did research, instead she saves those details for the afterword which I enjoyed. This was a 10 year work in process as she has lived her other hours working a full-time job as a journalist, wife and mom. I'm looking forward to her future efforts (I do hope there will be more).
Recommend for those who enjoy historic fiction especially young adult. It is more a historical drama than a coming of age, no whiny characters or mean girls here.
March 1, 2022
4 Summer of reckoning stars
This was a stunning debut novel that I thoroughly enjoyed! Southern fiction tends to be a winner for me, and this fit the bill! Set in the late 1940s when tobacco was king in North Carolina and the Tobacco Wives ruled the town!
Maddie is a young aspiring seamstress. She’s spending the summer with her aunt in Bright Leaf, surprise Aunt Etta! It isn’t the best timing as Etta is in crunch mode with getting all the gowns ready for the upcoming gala.
Maddie is a quick study though and she’s met some of the women before, so she quickly gets to work on some custom gowns and altering some other ready-to-wear gowns to make everyone shine. Along the way, she catches handsome David’s eye and there’s a summer romance in the works.
There are some other sinister things at play as tobacco execs try to keep the bad side effects of tobacco under wraps and force the factory women out of jobs now that men are returning from the war. The other thing is the big launch of cigarettes, just for women, MOMints – especially good for pregnant women (I know, what???) Maddie is faced with some impossible choices as the date of the gala looms.
The author did a great job of putting me into the glamor and beauty of this time and place and I thoroughly enjoyed my escape reading. Can’t wait to read her next book.
Thank you to William Morrow/Custom House and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and honestly review this one. Now available!
This was a stunning debut novel that I thoroughly enjoyed! Southern fiction tends to be a winner for me, and this fit the bill! Set in the late 1940s when tobacco was king in North Carolina and the Tobacco Wives ruled the town!
Maddie is a young aspiring seamstress. She’s spending the summer with her aunt in Bright Leaf, surprise Aunt Etta! It isn’t the best timing as Etta is in crunch mode with getting all the gowns ready for the upcoming gala.
Maddie is a quick study though and she’s met some of the women before, so she quickly gets to work on some custom gowns and altering some other ready-to-wear gowns to make everyone shine. Along the way, she catches handsome David’s eye and there’s a summer romance in the works.
There are some other sinister things at play as tobacco execs try to keep the bad side effects of tobacco under wraps and force the factory women out of jobs now that men are returning from the war. The other thing is the big launch of cigarettes, just for women, MOMints – especially good for pregnant women (I know, what???) Maddie is faced with some impossible choices as the date of the gala looms.
The author did a great job of putting me into the glamor and beauty of this time and place and I thoroughly enjoyed my escape reading. Can’t wait to read her next book.
Thank you to William Morrow/Custom House and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and honestly review this one. Now available!
March 22, 2022
Wonderfully written. 1946 North Carolina tobacco industry. All the way back to 1940s the tobacco industry knew the dangers of tobacco use. Went on to market as safe for all including pregnant women and the unborn baby. Unrest threatens a city as one person holds the truth in her hands. Read more to learn the outcome. 5+⭐️
May 30, 2022
The Tobacco wives by Adele Myers was recommended to me by a school colleague and I was so glad it was. It was both an insightful and engaging book. I listened to the audio CD back and forth to and from school. It was fast paced and captivating. The characters were unforgettable and so well developed. There were some characters that I came to really like and some that I despised almost instantly. The Tobacco Wives told the story about the time when tobacco was a real money maker and the harmful effects that tobacco caused were still unknown. It took place in North Carolina in a little town called Bright Leaf during the 1940’s. The Tobacco Wives also explored the roles of the women during that time period.
Maddie Sykes arrived at her aunt’s house very unexpectedly. She usually visited her aunt late each summer but this time Maddie arrived just at the beginning of her aunt’s busiest time in her dress making business. Maddie had just lost her daddy in the war and her mother was determined to find a new man that would take care of her. Not wanting anything to stand in her way, Maddy’s mother deposited Maddie with her aunt, her father’s sister, and left with no clear indication of when she would return for Maddie. Her aunt welcomed Maddie with open arms and immediately immersed her into the business of making gowns for the “tobacco wives”, some of the wealthiest and most influential women in Bright Leaf, North Carolina. Shortly after Maddie’s arrival, she began to assist her aunt in helping to design and sew the gowns for the gala when her aunt became seriously ill. Her aunt became hospitalized and the full responsibility of designing and making the gowns fell on Maddie’s shoulders. Maddie was a very shy and timid young girl. She was so intimidated by the new responsibilities she had to fulfill for her aunt. Quite quickly, though, Maddie evolved into a very brave and confident young woman who knew that she had a responsibility to the other women of Bright Leaf. Maddie had learned about some very dark secrets that the executives of the tobacco industry were trying to hide. She knew she had to speak the truth. When Maddie discovered that the executives of the big tobacco industry were hiding serious health information, especially from women, Maddie knew she had to find her voice and take a stand against these greedy men.
The Tobacco Wives was Adele Myers’ first novel. It was hard for me to believe that this was her debut novel. It was so well written and captured the essence of the tobacco industry and advertising platforms for that time. I loved the vivid descriptions of the fashion worn during that time as well. Having had two parents that both smoked since their high school days but finally quit I can accept the lure they experienced of smoking cigarettes during those times. It greatly distresses me, though, when I see young people still smoking cigarettes despite all the information we now know about the risks. The Tobacco Wives was about corporate greed, speaking out about what you believe in, the role advertising played in promoting the sale of tobacco and the role women experienced and played during that time. In the author’s note, Adele Meyers explained how The Tobacco Wives began as an essay about southern families and evolved into this amazing book. She revealed that her own family history became an inspiration for writing this book. I look forward to reading more books by Adele Myers.
Maddie Sykes arrived at her aunt’s house very unexpectedly. She usually visited her aunt late each summer but this time Maddie arrived just at the beginning of her aunt’s busiest time in her dress making business. Maddie had just lost her daddy in the war and her mother was determined to find a new man that would take care of her. Not wanting anything to stand in her way, Maddy’s mother deposited Maddie with her aunt, her father’s sister, and left with no clear indication of when she would return for Maddie. Her aunt welcomed Maddie with open arms and immediately immersed her into the business of making gowns for the “tobacco wives”, some of the wealthiest and most influential women in Bright Leaf, North Carolina. Shortly after Maddie’s arrival, she began to assist her aunt in helping to design and sew the gowns for the gala when her aunt became seriously ill. Her aunt became hospitalized and the full responsibility of designing and making the gowns fell on Maddie’s shoulders. Maddie was a very shy and timid young girl. She was so intimidated by the new responsibilities she had to fulfill for her aunt. Quite quickly, though, Maddie evolved into a very brave and confident young woman who knew that she had a responsibility to the other women of Bright Leaf. Maddie had learned about some very dark secrets that the executives of the tobacco industry were trying to hide. She knew she had to speak the truth. When Maddie discovered that the executives of the big tobacco industry were hiding serious health information, especially from women, Maddie knew she had to find her voice and take a stand against these greedy men.
The Tobacco Wives was Adele Myers’ first novel. It was hard for me to believe that this was her debut novel. It was so well written and captured the essence of the tobacco industry and advertising platforms for that time. I loved the vivid descriptions of the fashion worn during that time as well. Having had two parents that both smoked since their high school days but finally quit I can accept the lure they experienced of smoking cigarettes during those times. It greatly distresses me, though, when I see young people still smoking cigarettes despite all the information we now know about the risks. The Tobacco Wives was about corporate greed, speaking out about what you believe in, the role advertising played in promoting the sale of tobacco and the role women experienced and played during that time. In the author’s note, Adele Meyers explained how The Tobacco Wives began as an essay about southern families and evolved into this amazing book. She revealed that her own family history became an inspiration for writing this book. I look forward to reading more books by Adele Myers.
March 15, 2022
I was excited to read this debut novel based on the cover and description. Sadly, I was greatly disappointed in this utterly boring novel. I honestly contemplated DNF at 55%. There is no action, a weak romance storyline, no juicy gossip and much too much descriptive text on clothing that led practically nowhere.
The “dangerous truths” about the big tobacco empire Maddie seeks to expose is nothing we don’t already know about the consequences of tobacco use.
This novel was described as dramatic and full of emotion, but I have to disagree. While it’s an easy read, that is not necessarily a good thing in this case. It lacks dimension and reeks of repetition. I would not recommend this novel to any of my friends unless they need something to put them to sleep at night.
The “dangerous truths” about the big tobacco empire Maddie seeks to expose is nothing we don’t already know about the consequences of tobacco use.
This novel was described as dramatic and full of emotion, but I have to disagree. While it’s an easy read, that is not necessarily a good thing in this case. It lacks dimension and reeks of repetition. I would not recommend this novel to any of my friends unless they need something to put them to sleep at night.
April 15, 2022
A dull, entirely heartless novel with some intriguing concepts that were ignored in favor of a few momentarily interesting descriptions of fashion design. The prose is plain as it comes and, at times, bordering on juvenile. The heavy-handedness and overexplaination of every event that occurred is exhausting, and the epilogue a masterclass in how not to write fiction (i.e., “show not tell”).
This novel also featured one of the weakest romances I’ve ever encountered in adult fiction, one of the most cartoonishly cliche villains I’ve ever read, and a few token LGBT+ characters that seemed to be present only to add some sense of diversity.
I’m offended that this is the publishing industry’s example of historical fiction that’s worth being distributed the the masses.
This novel also featured one of the weakest romances I’ve ever encountered in adult fiction, one of the most cartoonishly cliche villains I’ve ever read, and a few token LGBT+ characters that seemed to be present only to add some sense of diversity.
I’m offended that this is the publishing industry’s example of historical fiction that’s worth being distributed the the masses.
April 3, 2022
I checked twice while reading this to make sure I wasn’t reading a young adult or juvenile fiction book. The writing is so simple and boring. There’s so much dialog that sounds more like kids playing house than adults having a conversation. The storyline is predictable. I only finished the book hoping for some historical perspective, but even that was lacking. Gave some facts but nothing was complete. Just a bit of this and a bit of that. The only full fact we receive is cigarettes are bad for you, which certainly isn’t a spoiler alert.
March 8, 2025
This was an excellent book! So many insightful matters regarding the typical cover ups and corruption within corporations, govts, and doctors besides. The dangers with smoking that occurred with pregnant women alone was such a despicable situation; premature births, low birth weight, miscarriages etc as the "studies" done by the company were a shame++ as they deceived so many with devastating results. The advertising slants they used as "doctors know best", you can trust them as women needed help calming their hysterics and emotions, "to help keep baby's weight low and then for their figures afterwards!!" So much for a healthy baby...shameful. It is still mind boggling in a sense that this kind of attitude always rears its ugly head when it comes to profit over people's lives and well being as we know. It wasn't just women's health being adversely affected either as so many medical issues plagued citizens who worked in the tobacco fields and the manufacturing aspect. They even produced reconstituted cigarettes out of leftover butts and scraps from the floor...ugh. The treatment of the workers was appalling as well as they also used common tactics such as divide and conquer with race wages but the women stuck together for work security at least.
There were many Christian type elements included which was refreshing to read/pleasant surprise as a Southern culture environment but the name of Jesus was used in swearing unfortunately.... Overall, I was totally enjoyed this engrossing story with the interesting characters, and storyline, and discoveries still even though I had been familiar with a fair bit beforehand. There's always more to learn however!
It was said to have a bit of a feminist tone which turns me from bothering usually but it wasn't overwhelming by any means in this story; I admire and love men in general...just some of course were such condescending and ruthless as it is with life regardless. The powerful cigarette manufacturers and doctors who were in cahoots were rotten, plain and simple. The societal structure was certainly different in 1946 as we can imagine as this was portrayed well and certainly easy to feel caught up with it.
Wow, this is longer than my usual reviews....I can definitely recommend this book as will gladly read others by her :)
There were many Christian type elements included which was refreshing to read/pleasant surprise as a Southern culture environment but the name of Jesus was used in swearing unfortunately.... Overall, I was totally enjoyed this engrossing story with the interesting characters, and storyline, and discoveries still even though I had been familiar with a fair bit beforehand. There's always more to learn however!
It was said to have a bit of a feminist tone which turns me from bothering usually but it wasn't overwhelming by any means in this story; I admire and love men in general...just some of course were such condescending and ruthless as it is with life regardless. The powerful cigarette manufacturers and doctors who were in cahoots were rotten, plain and simple. The societal structure was certainly different in 1946 as we can imagine as this was portrayed well and certainly easy to feel caught up with it.
Wow, this is longer than my usual reviews....I can definitely recommend this book as will gladly read others by her :)
May 6, 2022
I live fifteen minutes from downtown Durham and the American Tobacco campus. Brightleaf tobacco has been a part of North Carolina history for a long time, but I’ve never read a novel about the people behind a tobacco empire. I found this glimpse into the post-war landscape of North Carolina quite fascinating. Themes of fashion and feminism prevailed—all told through the eyes of a naive girl on the cusp of womanhood.
September 15, 2021
This book was terrific, an easy engrossing read, addressed an important topic with amazingly believable characters. As a health researcher, I was engrossed by a novel about the health risks of tobacco and how, even on an individual level, a woman can make a difference in a critical health issue. These battles continue today.
And as a person who relocated from the west to the south, I loved the wisdom of southern quotes. I will think of this one whenever I unwrap a present. “We all have troubles, dear,” she said, squeezing my hand. “They just come in different wrapping paper.”
And our current political rivalry and related health risks, make me appreciate this one. “It might not be right, but just you keep in mind that it can be hard for folks to do the right thing when they’ve got something to lose.”
You will find fun, grief, discovery, love and loss in this inspiring and joyful read.
And as a person who relocated from the west to the south, I loved the wisdom of southern quotes. I will think of this one whenever I unwrap a present. “We all have troubles, dear,” she said, squeezing my hand. “They just come in different wrapping paper.”
And our current political rivalry and related health risks, make me appreciate this one. “It might not be right, but just you keep in mind that it can be hard for folks to do the right thing when they’ve got something to lose.”
You will find fun, grief, discovery, love and loss in this inspiring and joyful read.
October 3, 2023
Welcome to Bright Leaf, North Carolina where, at this time, the whole state is fuelled by tobacco farming and manufacturing. You’ll meet Madeline ‘Maddie’ Sykes and root for her as she is challenged in every aspect of her life and continually rises to the top.
In short, this book is …
“A vibrant historical debut set in 1946 North Carolina following a young seamstress who uncovers dangerous truths about big tobacco.”
“Where would we be without the Bright Leaf Tobacco Company?” You’ll have to read to find out about this company that binds together everyone in town.
“Tobacco means money for us all. Without it, we’d be a bunch of dirt-eaters around here.”
So, who are the Tobacco Wives?
“These are ladies married to the richest, most powerful men in Bright Leaf, the ones who owned the fields, the drying barns, the cigarette factory, practically the whole town.”
I instantly loved the generous Mrs. Mitzy Winston, the “first lady of Bright Leaf” and loved the course Myers had planned for this powerful woman. Mitzy is married to the president and CEO of Bright Leaf Tobacco and holds the fate of many in her hands. Her character development was amazing and readers see how strong she is when she’s put in a precarious situation.
Mitzy’s husband, on the other hand, was a piece of work. These quotes will sum up his personality and get under your skin.
“Let’s not give ourselves indigestion by talking about business at dinner. I don’t want you getting yourself worked up - especially not about factory nonsense. You let me worry about production, and you focus on selling MOMints with that pretty little face of yours.”
“The men will be back soon enough and then all the little ladies currently in my employ can get on back home where they belong.”
“The ladies have done their best to keep the lights on while you were fighting overseas, but boy are we thankful those days are over. Now, our women can get back home where they belong.”
“Soon enough we’ll get you all back home where you can focus on a woman’s real job, getting our next generation here safely.”
The last straw was the feeble excuse he gave when explaining why so many babies were on ventilators! You’ll love to hate him, too.
This book isn’t just about tobacco. It’s also about:
✔️how we learn to cope when there’s nobody to count on, nobody in our corner
✔️the sacrifice of motherhood
✔️how women were viewed/treated in that era
✔️the painful choice of doing what’s right
✔️the heartache of miscarriage
✔️the importance of working outside the home
✔️the masks we wear to hide our less-than-perfect life from the world
Things that gave me pause:
✔️“A woman who marries for money and a man who marries for beauty are both equally robbed in the end.”
✔️the many uses for tobacco; not just cigarettes and cigars
✔️the magnet sermon
✔️how Maddie could calculate the distance from her Aunt Etta’s house by the smell of the different tobacco varieties
✔️“It was strange that a dress could make you feel like you fit in, that it could fool others into believing it too.”
This book highlighting the Green Monster is one you’ll want on your reading list this Fall!
In short, this book is …
“A vibrant historical debut set in 1946 North Carolina following a young seamstress who uncovers dangerous truths about big tobacco.”
“Where would we be without the Bright Leaf Tobacco Company?” You’ll have to read to find out about this company that binds together everyone in town.
“Tobacco means money for us all. Without it, we’d be a bunch of dirt-eaters around here.”
So, who are the Tobacco Wives?
“These are ladies married to the richest, most powerful men in Bright Leaf, the ones who owned the fields, the drying barns, the cigarette factory, practically the whole town.”
I instantly loved the generous Mrs. Mitzy Winston, the “first lady of Bright Leaf” and loved the course Myers had planned for this powerful woman. Mitzy is married to the president and CEO of Bright Leaf Tobacco and holds the fate of many in her hands. Her character development was amazing and readers see how strong she is when she’s put in a precarious situation.
Mitzy’s husband, on the other hand, was a piece of work. These quotes will sum up his personality and get under your skin.
“Let’s not give ourselves indigestion by talking about business at dinner. I don’t want you getting yourself worked up - especially not about factory nonsense. You let me worry about production, and you focus on selling MOMints with that pretty little face of yours.”
“The men will be back soon enough and then all the little ladies currently in my employ can get on back home where they belong.”
“The ladies have done their best to keep the lights on while you were fighting overseas, but boy are we thankful those days are over. Now, our women can get back home where they belong.”
“Soon enough we’ll get you all back home where you can focus on a woman’s real job, getting our next generation here safely.”
The last straw was the feeble excuse he gave when explaining why so many babies were on ventilators! You’ll love to hate him, too.
This book isn’t just about tobacco. It’s also about:
✔️how we learn to cope when there’s nobody to count on, nobody in our corner
✔️the sacrifice of motherhood
✔️how women were viewed/treated in that era
✔️the painful choice of doing what’s right
✔️the heartache of miscarriage
✔️the importance of working outside the home
✔️the masks we wear to hide our less-than-perfect life from the world
Things that gave me pause:
✔️“A woman who marries for money and a man who marries for beauty are both equally robbed in the end.”
✔️the many uses for tobacco; not just cigarettes and cigars
✔️the magnet sermon
✔️how Maddie could calculate the distance from her Aunt Etta’s house by the smell of the different tobacco varieties
✔️“It was strange that a dress could make you feel like you fit in, that it could fool others into believing it too.”
This book highlighting the Green Monster is one you’ll want on your reading list this Fall!
March 26, 2022
You have to try the new cigarette for women…MOMints. Especially made for women and safe for pregnant women.
Can you imagine that type of advertisement today?
We meet the tobacco wives endorsing that statement and promoting smoking for everyone.
We also meet Maddie whose mother woke her up in the middle of the night and took her to her Aunt Etta’s.
Aunt Etta lived in the heart of tobacco land in the town called Bright Leaf and where the Bright Leaf Tobacco Company was.
Aunt Etta sewed dresses for the tobacco wives, and Maddie would help her in the summers.
Now that Maddie was there for an unspecified time, she will be helping as a seamstress for these wealthy women.
Maddie didn't know how much she would be helping, but Aunt Etta left her in charge when she became ill.
Can she do this without her aunt?
Will the women trust her?
They trusted her with their gowns, but she also finds out more about the women than their preferences for gorgeous gowns and what goes on in this seemingly idyllic town.
Will she be able to trust anyone or just play the game?
Maddie is a sweet girl with talent, but not enough confidence. You will love how she overcomes her shyness and develops confidence and joins in the fight for women’s rights and exposing the lies of the tobacco industry.
THE TOBACCO WIVES takes us inside the industry as the reader learns how things operated and not always on the up and up.
We also learn about seamstresses and fashion during that time and how tough it was for those who were not tobacco executives or the tobacco wives.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Women's fiction fans and historical fiction fans will also enjoy it. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher for an honest review.
Can you imagine that type of advertisement today?
We meet the tobacco wives endorsing that statement and promoting smoking for everyone.
We also meet Maddie whose mother woke her up in the middle of the night and took her to her Aunt Etta’s.
Aunt Etta lived in the heart of tobacco land in the town called Bright Leaf and where the Bright Leaf Tobacco Company was.
Aunt Etta sewed dresses for the tobacco wives, and Maddie would help her in the summers.
Now that Maddie was there for an unspecified time, she will be helping as a seamstress for these wealthy women.
Maddie didn't know how much she would be helping, but Aunt Etta left her in charge when she became ill.
Can she do this without her aunt?
Will the women trust her?
They trusted her with their gowns, but she also finds out more about the women than their preferences for gorgeous gowns and what goes on in this seemingly idyllic town.
Will she be able to trust anyone or just play the game?
Maddie is a sweet girl with talent, but not enough confidence. You will love how she overcomes her shyness and develops confidence and joins in the fight for women’s rights and exposing the lies of the tobacco industry.
THE TOBACCO WIVES takes us inside the industry as the reader learns how things operated and not always on the up and up.
We also learn about seamstresses and fashion during that time and how tough it was for those who were not tobacco executives or the tobacco wives.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Women's fiction fans and historical fiction fans will also enjoy it. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher for an honest review.
April 3, 2022
Simple, straightforward story. Enjoyable enough (not a dual timeline which is refreshing!), but it seemed like a YA read.
February 27, 2022
It is 1947 and 15-year-old Maddie Sykes has lost her father in the war. Her mother sends her to live with her Aunt Etta in Bright Leaf, North Carolina – the tobacco capital of the South. Etta is a popular seamstress whose clientele include the women whose husbands run Bright Leaf Tobacco. Mitzy Winston, the beautiful wife of Richard Winston, president and chief operating officer of the company, takes an immediate liking to Maddie. As the company’s annual gala approaches, Maddie finds herself working to complete the gowns for Mitzy and several of the “Tobacco Wives”. The big news of the charity ball is the launch of MOMints cigarettes, which was created to appeal to women and features pseudo health claims by the town’s local doctor. The new line of cigarettes is being made by the women who are working at the company’s factory to fill in for the men who went off to war.
In this appealing coming-of-age story, Maddie discovers that behind the seemingly perfect lives of Mitzy and her friends is a company that is lying to the public about the health hazards of cigarettes. Maddie learns of dangerous work conditions and unfair treatment of their women employees. Author Adele Myers, drawing from family history and research, creates a post-war story of a young woman with a conscience who is much wiser and braver than her years. I had yet to read a work of fiction which tackles the cigarette industry’s efforts during this period to mislead the public, so kudos to Myers.
Many thanks to William Morrow and HarperCollins for the opportunity to read this impressive debut by author Myers in advance of its March 1, 2022 release.
In this appealing coming-of-age story, Maddie discovers that behind the seemingly perfect lives of Mitzy and her friends is a company that is lying to the public about the health hazards of cigarettes. Maddie learns of dangerous work conditions and unfair treatment of their women employees. Author Adele Myers, drawing from family history and research, creates a post-war story of a young woman with a conscience who is much wiser and braver than her years. I had yet to read a work of fiction which tackles the cigarette industry’s efforts during this period to mislead the public, so kudos to Myers.
Many thanks to William Morrow and HarperCollins for the opportunity to read this impressive debut by author Myers in advance of its March 1, 2022 release.
March 22, 2022
CWs: miscarriage, child neglect
If this were a rating for my personal enjoyment, it would probably be lower. However, I'm trying to rate this based on the core quality of it, seeing as this type of fiction isn't really my cup of tea. I didn't enjoy it a whole lot, but I also recognize this wasn't really my type of read. I'll admit it--I was hooked by the cover. The blurb compared it to authors I wouldn't pick up, but the story sounded a tad spicier than what I'd expect from them, so I gave it a shot.
So barring it being the type of book I'm personally not a fan of, how did it hold up as its own entity? Well, not great. The author took on a really ambitious (and intriguing!) historical topic and surrounded it with some incredibly weak characters. I think the novel would've benefited from a third person perspective, or at least a split one. The narrator was bland, and her singular perspective didn't accomplish much. I would've loved to see some of the story from Mitzy's POV or even Dr. Hale's. There were infinitely more interesting characters than the one whose words formed the entire book. But alas, we were stuck with a narrator who never made an interesting decision, never took a risk I didn't see coming, never shocked me, moved me...
There were a lot of really intriguing plot points that sorta blew out the window, unaddressed or weakly addressed. The two characters I felt most emotionally connected to (Aunt Etta and the narrator's mother) sort of fell off the planet in the second half of the book. Sure, they get a conclusion, but by the epilogue you sorta don't care. It's also worth noting that the climax of the novel (about 20 pages before the end) was comically frustrating and disappointing. *sigh*
So what did I like? Why the second star? The setting of the novel was just really great. Summer, WWII, North Carolina tobacco fields... it was really transportive if you like that sort of thing. It only made the weak plot more disappointing, but I can't overlook the fact that at times I felt like I was driving down a country road in a polka dot dress smokin' a cigarette with a hot retro combover boy in the driver's seat.
In conclusion, don't let the gorgeous cover, or even the intriguing feminist plot, suck you in. There's WAY better light historical fiction out there.
If this were a rating for my personal enjoyment, it would probably be lower. However, I'm trying to rate this based on the core quality of it, seeing as this type of fiction isn't really my cup of tea. I didn't enjoy it a whole lot, but I also recognize this wasn't really my type of read. I'll admit it--I was hooked by the cover. The blurb compared it to authors I wouldn't pick up, but the story sounded a tad spicier than what I'd expect from them, so I gave it a shot.
So barring it being the type of book I'm personally not a fan of, how did it hold up as its own entity? Well, not great. The author took on a really ambitious (and intriguing!) historical topic and surrounded it with some incredibly weak characters. I think the novel would've benefited from a third person perspective, or at least a split one. The narrator was bland, and her singular perspective didn't accomplish much. I would've loved to see some of the story from Mitzy's POV or even Dr. Hale's. There were infinitely more interesting characters than the one whose words formed the entire book. But alas, we were stuck with a narrator who never made an interesting decision, never took a risk I didn't see coming, never shocked me, moved me...
There were a lot of really intriguing plot points that sorta blew out the window, unaddressed or weakly addressed. The two characters I felt most emotionally connected to (Aunt Etta and the narrator's mother) sort of fell off the planet in the second half of the book. Sure, they get a conclusion, but by the epilogue you sorta don't care. It's also worth noting that the climax of the novel (about 20 pages before the end) was comically frustrating and disappointing. *sigh*
So what did I like? Why the second star? The setting of the novel was just really great. Summer, WWII, North Carolina tobacco fields... it was really transportive if you like that sort of thing. It only made the weak plot more disappointing, but I can't overlook the fact that at times I felt like I was driving down a country road in a polka dot dress smokin' a cigarette with a hot retro combover boy in the driver's seat.
In conclusion, don't let the gorgeous cover, or even the intriguing feminist plot, suck you in. There's WAY better light historical fiction out there.
December 5, 2023
I have been in the mood for historical fiction lately, so I could not resist picking up The Tobacco Wives!
Good book, good story. You could definitely tell it was a debut, but the author has talent. The MC alternated from being a very naive teenager to a savvy and skeptical person... it made her as a character a little hard to believe as real.
Overall, I enjoyed it and am glad I picked it up! 3.75 stars rounded up
Good book, good story. You could definitely tell it was a debut, but the author has talent. The MC alternated from being a very naive teenager to a savvy and skeptical person... it made her as a character a little hard to believe as real.
Overall, I enjoyed it and am glad I picked it up! 3.75 stars rounded up
October 14, 2022
4 stars
I was not going to give this a 4 star rating - but something much less. That was not because I felt the author did a bad job or that the writing was not good - because as far as the author and writing I very much liked the book. My reason for a lower rating was because of the money grubbing bastards in the tobacco industry. However the author brought out such a strong reaction in me about this drug trade that I felt even though I had a negative reaction, she was due a good rating. Therefore a 4 star book.
The story of a young girl, raised by a narcissistic mother, who dumps her on her aunt. From prior years of visits Maddie had picked up the craft of her aunts sewing. Luckily she had, for when the aunt becomes ill Maddie must carry on the tradition of making the gowns for the elite women in town - the Tobacco Wives. As the story progresses, we learn that cigarette executives and stupid doctors are pushing the addiction of cigarettes to line their pockets, all the time knowing that cigarettes are bad for the health of people.
Most of this story takes place in the 1940's and the addiction of cigarettes as a health problem is known by few but not shared with the public. The story ends in the 1990's, just as changes are taking place.
This story riled me up. I put up with my parents smoking for twenty years, unable to get away from it and hating every minute of it. They believed the vile, foul lies told by cigarette companies. I hated being unable to eat a nice meal in public without the next booth or table "lighting up". I am so happy that we have had changes that will allow my grandchildren to be free of inhaling second hand smoke. I also mourn the hundreds of thousands of people addicted to this filthy habit. The lives lost to sickness and death due to their addiction. To say nothing of the expense - and where that money could have easily made a greater difference.
So even though my reaction to this story was as effusive as it was, I think the author deserves the 4 star rating for making me feel as I did.
I was not going to give this a 4 star rating - but something much less. That was not because I felt the author did a bad job or that the writing was not good - because as far as the author and writing I very much liked the book. My reason for a lower rating was because of the money grubbing bastards in the tobacco industry. However the author brought out such a strong reaction in me about this drug trade that I felt even though I had a negative reaction, she was due a good rating. Therefore a 4 star book.
The story of a young girl, raised by a narcissistic mother, who dumps her on her aunt. From prior years of visits Maddie had picked up the craft of her aunts sewing. Luckily she had, for when the aunt becomes ill Maddie must carry on the tradition of making the gowns for the elite women in town - the Tobacco Wives. As the story progresses, we learn that cigarette executives and stupid doctors are pushing the addiction of cigarettes to line their pockets, all the time knowing that cigarettes are bad for the health of people.
Most of this story takes place in the 1940's and the addiction of cigarettes as a health problem is known by few but not shared with the public. The story ends in the 1990's, just as changes are taking place.
This story riled me up. I put up with my parents smoking for twenty years, unable to get away from it and hating every minute of it. They believed the vile, foul lies told by cigarette companies. I hated being unable to eat a nice meal in public without the next booth or table "lighting up". I am so happy that we have had changes that will allow my grandchildren to be free of inhaling second hand smoke. I also mourn the hundreds of thousands of people addicted to this filthy habit. The lives lost to sickness and death due to their addiction. To say nothing of the expense - and where that money could have easily made a greater difference.
So even though my reaction to this story was as effusive as it was, I think the author deserves the 4 star rating for making me feel as I did.
August 10, 2022
North Carolina, 1946.
WWII has ended, the soldiers are headed home and change is on the horizon. For 15 year old Maddie Sykes her life is about to be completely turned upside down. Her father died while serving and her mother is on the hunt for a new husband, so she drops Maddie at her Aunt Etta's house in Brightleaf, where tobacco reigns supreme. She's dazzled by the glamorous "tobacco wives" married to the company executives. For years her Aunt has been making their gowns for the many social events of the summer. Maddie, a budding seamstress, has been helping her Aunt outfit the women of the community. But soon Maddie discovers that underneath the glitz and glitter lies some deep held secrets and multiple examples of social injustice. She's left with the difficult decision of how far she will go to right the wrongs.
A fabulous historical debut about the power of the early tobacco industry and finding the courage to fight for what is right.
WWII has ended, the soldiers are headed home and change is on the horizon. For 15 year old Maddie Sykes her life is about to be completely turned upside down. Her father died while serving and her mother is on the hunt for a new husband, so she drops Maddie at her Aunt Etta's house in Brightleaf, where tobacco reigns supreme. She's dazzled by the glamorous "tobacco wives" married to the company executives. For years her Aunt has been making their gowns for the many social events of the summer. Maddie, a budding seamstress, has been helping her Aunt outfit the women of the community. But soon Maddie discovers that underneath the glitz and glitter lies some deep held secrets and multiple examples of social injustice. She's left with the difficult decision of how far she will go to right the wrongs.
A fabulous historical debut about the power of the early tobacco industry and finding the courage to fight for what is right.
April 3, 2022
I think i would have liked this better if i read it in seventh grade.
March 23, 2022
DEBUT NOVEL REVIEW ✨ Thank you, William Morrow, for gifting me a copy of The Tobacco Wives {partner}
Genre: Historical Fiction
Time: 1946
Format: 📖
Pub Date: 3.1.2022
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆
"Imagine living like that. Not having to hold your breath every time the checkout girl rings up your groceries, not having the shame when you have to put something back. Not having to worry. "
Adele Myers has such a beautiful way of writing that I couldn't stop reading; it was full of rich, vibrant details that brought the characters and their stories to light. I devoured this novel in less than 24 hours and knew that it would be a 5 star for me very early on.
One of my favorite sections of the book featured Maddie picking out the color swatches for the wives - the details were perfect and made me feel like I was in the room with her. My ONLY complaint about the book is that I wish Myers had included sketches of the dress and hats. I need to see what inspired all the outfits!
Without giving anything away, I also appreciated the end of the story. Obviously, everything couldn't be wrapped up in a pretty bow because there was still a lot that would go into (and honestly still is) the awareness and prevention of smoking. But, I loved that Myers gave the readers one more chapter to spend with some of the characters.
🥰 Believable & lovable characters
👌🏽 Ending was well thought out
💜 Cornelia may be one of my favorite characters
🤩 Beautiful descriptions of the people, town, & fashion
🧐 Has a bit of mystery to it
🕰 Post WWII
❌- due to the nature of the book, there were references to infant death, birth defects, and miscarriage. If you have any questions or concerns, please DM me.
This was a debut novel for Adele Myers, and I can't wait to read what she writes next! I had so many people message me for my review on this book, so I hope I've convinced you to go out and pick it up from your local bookstore! 😘
If you could be successful at any hobby, what would it be? I would LOVE to be able to make my own clothes (and it does not look like I made my own clothes…)
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebookend....
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Genre: Historical Fiction
Time: 1946
Format: 📖
Pub Date: 3.1.2022
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆
"Imagine living like that. Not having to hold your breath every time the checkout girl rings up your groceries, not having the shame when you have to put something back. Not having to worry. "
Adele Myers has such a beautiful way of writing that I couldn't stop reading; it was full of rich, vibrant details that brought the characters and their stories to light. I devoured this novel in less than 24 hours and knew that it would be a 5 star for me very early on.
One of my favorite sections of the book featured Maddie picking out the color swatches for the wives - the details were perfect and made me feel like I was in the room with her. My ONLY complaint about the book is that I wish Myers had included sketches of the dress and hats. I need to see what inspired all the outfits!
Without giving anything away, I also appreciated the end of the story. Obviously, everything couldn't be wrapped up in a pretty bow because there was still a lot that would go into (and honestly still is) the awareness and prevention of smoking. But, I loved that Myers gave the readers one more chapter to spend with some of the characters.
🥰 Believable & lovable characters
👌🏽 Ending was well thought out
💜 Cornelia may be one of my favorite characters
🤩 Beautiful descriptions of the people, town, & fashion
🧐 Has a bit of mystery to it
🕰 Post WWII
❌- due to the nature of the book, there were references to infant death, birth defects, and miscarriage. If you have any questions or concerns, please DM me.
This was a debut novel for Adele Myers, and I can't wait to read what she writes next! I had so many people message me for my review on this book, so I hope I've convinced you to go out and pick it up from your local bookstore! 😘
If you could be successful at any hobby, what would it be? I would LOVE to be able to make my own clothes (and it does not look like I made my own clothes…)
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebookend....
Follow my blog: https://thebookenddiner.com/
Follow me on StoryGraph: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile...
March 15, 2022
Set in the 1940’s, this story explores the North Carolina tobacco industry. The town of Bright Leaf owes everything to Bright Leaf Tobacco, it’s founder and employer.
Maddie finds herself dropped off at her Aunt Etta’s house in Bright Leaf unexpectedly. Her military father has passed away and her mother needs time alone to find a new husband. Luckily Etta is a wonderful influence, full of Southern charm and stability. She is a successful seamstress to the tobacco wives (TW) - the spouses of the industry’s executives. Etta has trained Maddie to sew every summer she came to stay with her. Now that Maddie is thrust upon her during the very busy Gala season, Etta let’s Maddie join her in preparing gowns for the TW.
The author took some liberties in her time frame for this story. That will be off-putting to some- but I was fine with it. It added to the interest of the story. While most of the men in Bright Leaf have been gone fighting the war, the women have stepped up and have been filling the factories. Now that the men are coming back, will the women get pushed aside?
Simultaneous to this story, is one of hidden truths, deception and greed. A new cigarette just for Women has been developed in partnership with the town doctor. These cigarettes, called MoMints, are touted as healthy, able to curtail anxiety and even help with weight loss. The advertising goes so far as to recommend that pregnant women smoke these to ensure they stay healthy. (Yikes.) The TW have been recruited to be the faces of these Momints in their advertising. Who better to promote their product than the beautiful wives who are the envy of many.
These stories intertwine when Maddie finds some secret information that she must decide what to do with. Her gut tells her one thing, but her Aunt’s business and the men controlling this town tells her another.
I really enjoyed this book and read it in 2 days. I loved the descriptions of the town, the tobacco industry and the Southern royalty- the wives.
Thank you to partners #bibliolifestyle and #williammorrowbooks!
Maddie finds herself dropped off at her Aunt Etta’s house in Bright Leaf unexpectedly. Her military father has passed away and her mother needs time alone to find a new husband. Luckily Etta is a wonderful influence, full of Southern charm and stability. She is a successful seamstress to the tobacco wives (TW) - the spouses of the industry’s executives. Etta has trained Maddie to sew every summer she came to stay with her. Now that Maddie is thrust upon her during the very busy Gala season, Etta let’s Maddie join her in preparing gowns for the TW.
The author took some liberties in her time frame for this story. That will be off-putting to some- but I was fine with it. It added to the interest of the story. While most of the men in Bright Leaf have been gone fighting the war, the women have stepped up and have been filling the factories. Now that the men are coming back, will the women get pushed aside?
Simultaneous to this story, is one of hidden truths, deception and greed. A new cigarette just for Women has been developed in partnership with the town doctor. These cigarettes, called MoMints, are touted as healthy, able to curtail anxiety and even help with weight loss. The advertising goes so far as to recommend that pregnant women smoke these to ensure they stay healthy. (Yikes.) The TW have been recruited to be the faces of these Momints in their advertising. Who better to promote their product than the beautiful wives who are the envy of many.
These stories intertwine when Maddie finds some secret information that she must decide what to do with. Her gut tells her one thing, but her Aunt’s business and the men controlling this town tells her another.
I really enjoyed this book and read it in 2 days. I loved the descriptions of the town, the tobacco industry and the Southern royalty- the wives.
Thank you to partners #bibliolifestyle and #williammorrowbooks!
February 15, 2024
It was an interesting perspective to tell this story through the eyes of a young seamstress. Maddie is a likable character but does a disservice to the novel's romance.
The female characters in this novel are incredibly well-developed, but the male characters are severely lacking.
Other than that, I enjoyed getting to know the personalities in the backdrop of the North Carolina tobacco industry. I got sucked into Maddie's world and her battle to try to survive on shaky ground.
The scandal around the tobacco industry has always been immense, and it was hard to read about the recommendations to pregnant and nursing mothers.
I would definitely read another Adele Myers book.
Solid 4 Stars.
The female characters in this novel are incredibly well-developed, but the male characters are severely lacking.
Other than that, I enjoyed getting to know the personalities in the backdrop of the North Carolina tobacco industry. I got sucked into Maddie's world and her battle to try to survive on shaky ground.
The scandal around the tobacco industry has always been immense, and it was hard to read about the recommendations to pregnant and nursing mothers.
I would definitely read another Adele Myers book.
Solid 4 Stars.
April 19, 2022
This read too much like a YA novel. Repetitive, and childish. Seemed like the Author was just looking for something controversial to write about. The best part was that it was a very easy quick read.
July 13, 2022
Overview:
👎 Slow burn
🆗 Mystery...sort of
🆗 Historical fiction
🆗 Feminist
🆗 Teenage main character
🆗 No/low romance
The Tobacco Wives follows Maddie- a teenage girl recently abandoned by her mother. Now in the care of her aunt, she is making custom dresses for the wives of a small tobacco town. Obscenely wealthy women who dazzle her. As Maddie uncovers the tobacco industry's secrets, she wonders how much her newfound life is worth keeping.
The book is a missed opportunity. An almost great book- and maybe for that I am angrier at it. It ALMOST touches on meaningful social issues. It ALMOST is a mystery. It ALMOST is a coming-of-age story- but it's none of those things.
I occasionally like a slow burn, and the first 1/3rd of The Tobacco Wives really felt like it was laying the groundwork for something amazing. I was convinced my patience would pay off for a 5 star read. In the end, about 1/2 of the book was filler. Minimal character development and exploration of who the "wives" are..and Maddie herself starts to tread water. You get scene after scene of her making these dresses expecting an exploration of character or an exciting reveal, and none of those things happen.
The back of the book seems to tease a conspiracy or mystery, but this all occurs in a total of about 1 chapter. This is mostly a quiet, weirdly comfy, and sad story about a girl dealing with loss. I found a lot of it tedious, but it also has some bright, interesting moments as well- particularly dealing with Maddie's family.
I would recommend this to historical fiction enjoyers and someone looking for a quiet, understated book that doesn't ask too much from the reader.
👎 Slow burn
🆗 Mystery...sort of
🆗 Historical fiction
🆗 Feminist
🆗 Teenage main character
🆗 No/low romance
The Tobacco Wives follows Maddie- a teenage girl recently abandoned by her mother. Now in the care of her aunt, she is making custom dresses for the wives of a small tobacco town. Obscenely wealthy women who dazzle her. As Maddie uncovers the tobacco industry's secrets, she wonders how much her newfound life is worth keeping.
The book is a missed opportunity. An almost great book- and maybe for that I am angrier at it. It ALMOST touches on meaningful social issues. It ALMOST is a mystery. It ALMOST is a coming-of-age story- but it's none of those things.
I occasionally like a slow burn, and the first 1/3rd of The Tobacco Wives really felt like it was laying the groundwork for something amazing. I was convinced my patience would pay off for a 5 star read. In the end, about 1/2 of the book was filler. Minimal character development and exploration of who the "wives" are..and Maddie herself starts to tread water. You get scene after scene of her making these dresses expecting an exploration of character or an exciting reveal, and none of those things happen.
The back of the book seems to tease a conspiracy or mystery, but this all occurs in a total of about 1 chapter. This is mostly a quiet, weirdly comfy, and sad story about a girl dealing with loss. I found a lot of it tedious, but it also has some bright, interesting moments as well- particularly dealing with Maddie's family.
I would recommend this to historical fiction enjoyers and someone looking for a quiet, understated book that doesn't ask too much from the reader.
April 1, 2022
4.5 stars
Myers’ debut historical-fiction novel follows a young seamstress who unearths terrible secrets that a local tobacco company is hiding from its consumers and its employees. A recent arrival to 1946 Bright Leaf, North Carolina, Maddie Sykes is enthralled by the wives of the tobacco executives who run the town and lead seemingly perfect lives. But when Maddie uncovers some dark truths about the tobacco company’s products, she must decide if unveiling the harm being done by the company is worth upending the lives of the tobacco women and the rest of the townspeople who depend on the company for their livelihood. Myers’ detailed descriptions of working in a cigarette factory, combined with the hindsight of understanding the harm caused by tobacco and tobacco executives, make this a compelling and sometimes haunting read.
I interviewed Adele on my podcast: https://www.thoughtsfromapage.com/ade.... For more reading recommendations check out my podcast and blog: https://www.thoughtsfromapage.com and follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thoughtsfro....
Myers’ debut historical-fiction novel follows a young seamstress who unearths terrible secrets that a local tobacco company is hiding from its consumers and its employees. A recent arrival to 1946 Bright Leaf, North Carolina, Maddie Sykes is enthralled by the wives of the tobacco executives who run the town and lead seemingly perfect lives. But when Maddie uncovers some dark truths about the tobacco company’s products, she must decide if unveiling the harm being done by the company is worth upending the lives of the tobacco women and the rest of the townspeople who depend on the company for their livelihood. Myers’ detailed descriptions of working in a cigarette factory, combined with the hindsight of understanding the harm caused by tobacco and tobacco executives, make this a compelling and sometimes haunting read.
I interviewed Adele on my podcast: https://www.thoughtsfromapage.com/ade.... For more reading recommendations check out my podcast and blog: https://www.thoughtsfromapage.com and follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thoughtsfro....
April 2, 2022
4.5 stars. Maddie is a budding seamstress who was left with her aunt in Bright Leaf, North Carolina while her recently widowed mother looked for a job and a place to live. Bright Leaf is the tobacco capital of North Carolina, and her aunt is the seamstress to the wives of tobacco executives. Bright Leaf is not feeling the losses of the depression or the war, but is rich on the profits of the tobacco industry. When her aunt contracts measles and ends up hospitalized, Maddie has to take over her business creating and altering dresses for the upcoming gala. She is taken under the wing of the wife of the owner of Bright Leaf tobacco, staying in her home. When she accidentally finds and reads a letter from a prominent local doctor to the owner sharing information about the dangers of smoking to pregnant women, she knows she has to tell someone. Not only are they covering up this scientific information, but they are treating the female workers terribly, endangering their health and trying to get them all to quit as the men are returning from war and need jobs. Can this young woman change the lives of a variety of women?
The last paragraph of the blurb says, "Shedding light on the hidden history of women’s activism during the post-war period, at its heart, The Tobacco Wives is a deeply human, emotionally satisfying, and dramatic novel about the power of female connection and the importance of seeking truth." This is a great description of the themes in this book. Maddie is young and on her own. She has friends, one who is helping her with the business and one she is sort of dating, but can she trust them. I loved watching Maddie grow in this book and stand up for what she believed in her own way. I hate that big tobacco knew the dangers of smoking, yet continued to market to women, remember "We've come a long way, baby" ads for Virginia Slims? I will say I continue to be glad I live now and not in the past where women were subjected to whatever men thought they should or should not do. Make sure you read the author’s note and connection to the story at the end of the book. This is a debut novel and I can't wait to see what Adele Myers has in store for us. Shannon McManus and Janet Metzger narrate this excellent audiobook. They give the characters their own voice, expression and tone. I enjoyed the pace and emotions added to the story and recommend this one to lovers of historical fiction, women's issues and coming of age stories. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this audiobook upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
The last paragraph of the blurb says, "Shedding light on the hidden history of women’s activism during the post-war period, at its heart, The Tobacco Wives is a deeply human, emotionally satisfying, and dramatic novel about the power of female connection and the importance of seeking truth." This is a great description of the themes in this book. Maddie is young and on her own. She has friends, one who is helping her with the business and one she is sort of dating, but can she trust them. I loved watching Maddie grow in this book and stand up for what she believed in her own way. I hate that big tobacco knew the dangers of smoking, yet continued to market to women, remember "We've come a long way, baby" ads for Virginia Slims? I will say I continue to be glad I live now and not in the past where women were subjected to whatever men thought they should or should not do. Make sure you read the author’s note and connection to the story at the end of the book. This is a debut novel and I can't wait to see what Adele Myers has in store for us. Shannon McManus and Janet Metzger narrate this excellent audiobook. They give the characters their own voice, expression and tone. I enjoyed the pace and emotions added to the story and recommend this one to lovers of historical fiction, women's issues and coming of age stories. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this audiobook upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
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