I found this book to be boring with lackluster characters and a very slow moving plot. Not at all what I expected from this author.

Okay, so… A Tale of Two Cities is one of those books I should have read years ago in a high-school English class. But I didn’t. And I still haven’t. And yet, I wholeheartedly enjoyed Allison Pittman’s interpretation of its story in The Seamstress.

The Dickens classic, set within the harsh realities of the French Revolution, comes to life in a fresh light in Pittman’s novel. Renée, the seamstress, and Laurette, her cousin in the country, highlight the contrasting experiences of the era—from countryside desperation and starvation to palatial excess and ignorance. Their stories are exquisitely told, rich in historical detail, as well as faith, hope, and courage, until the bittersweet end.

Readers of historical fiction, read The Seamstress. Even if you haven’t yet read A Tale of Two Cities, like me. It’s an experience worth having. I highly, highly recommend it.

<i> Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this novel via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. </i>

4.5 stars

<u> The Seamstress </u> is one of my new favourite French Revolution period novels. From the alternating perspectives of two orphan girls, this book follows the lives of Renee, who leaves her "little sheep village" to become seamstress to Queen Marie-Antoinette, and her cousin Laurette, who forges her own life within their rural community.

Pittman's writing is brilliant and animated. She does an amazing job of bringing her characters to life. Originally inspired by the seamstress in Charles Dickens' <u> A Tale of Two Cities </u>, this vibrancy is not only restricted to Renee and Laurette, but extends to all of the individuals that they encounter during their revolutionary experiences. It felt as if I was viewing 18th century France from the eyes of people who lived there during the preceding famine and political upheaval. I particularly enjoyed how the perspectives of both the rich and the poor were highlighted throughout the journey of these two young women. I could not put this one down. I would 100% recommend this to anyone looking for 18th century French fiction.

It is rare that I am captivated from the very first page, but I was. It is also rare that I am this invested in a story, but I was. With a fast paced life filled with lots of little boys, so many commitments, and a list of things I want or should do that stretches well beyond what is humanly possible I tend to select books that are quick totread oror a dare I say short. I asked around with those on the review team before agreeing to read this story. I am so grateful they had rave reviews about Allison Pittman and will always be grateful they encouraged me to pick up this book.

Pittman beautifully developed not one but two main characters in this novel. Cousins in the late 1700’s in France who are more like sisters that bicker, fight, love and hurt. Their crushes on the same men that grow in wildly different ways were masterfully developed and so enthralling to read about. I loved the way Pittman dipped in and out of each girl’s story. These tandem story lines kept me riveted. I also loved the different perspective on Marie Antoinette. Usually portrayed as a heinous queen she is humanized and motherly which is a different and unique perspective. The Women’s March on Versailles (an actual historic event) was brutal to read about, but that is a part of historical fiction that I appreciate most. Renee’s utmost devotion to the queen, was both bizarre and riveting. I am so grateful for a fiction story that leaves me wanting to learn more about a real historical event. And that leads me to read classics like A Tale of Two Cities. I have no desire to ruin the story for you, but every hope my pure enthusiasm for the author and this story in particular will lead you to grab a copy.

Don’t miss the guest post from Pittman herself down below, but I will tell you this she has accomplished what she set out to do by ” ‘finishing’ other author’s works, fleshing out the stories of neglected characters.” The stories she chose to extend and explore took neglected characters and gave them the attention they deserve, creating beautiful tales of their lives and stories.

The good news for me is that she has a “Sister Wife” duo and so many more that I can now add to my “to read” list! Again so many thanks to the publisher for exposing me to yet another author who I now will follow with baited breath, and for a copy of the book. All these thoughts are honest and my own, and I hope they leave you wanting to READ.

I want to write a kind review because I love Allison Pittman as a writer. Her stories are the coolest ever!
Even though this book really wasn't my cup of tea I felt that it was a good story all around.
Yes, there were some pretty lengthy descriptions that really didn't need to be there.
Allison does have a way of pulling you into the story along with two cousins Laurette and Renee who seems to have the stronger voice.
She has done an excellent job in telling both sides of the French Revolution using the backdrop of A Tale Of Two Cities.
I think the thing I really didn't like about the book was the use of bad language. This is what bothered me the most.
I love learning things that the teachers didn't teach you in school. This book did just that. I learned quite a few things from reading this book.
What did draw me into this book was Marie Antoinette. What a fascinating lady!!
Allison has done her research well. You could tell that she has pyt her whole heart and soul into writing this book.
My thanks to Netgalley for this book. NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own.

Author Allison Pittman has taken a minor character from Charles Dickens’ book, “A Tale of Two Cities” and given her a tale all her own. The character now has a name, Renee, a stronger voice, and emotions that will leap off of the pages of this book and straight into your heart. The three other main characters, Laurette, Gagnon, and Marcel all come to life with the skilled stroke of the author’s pen.

For years I have been a fan of the gifted wordsmith Pittman. Her writing style is engaging and always draws me in. It was the same with this book. This book was well researched, organized, and well planned. At first I found it a little difficult but after a couple of chapters, it flowed flawlessly. The characters complimented each other with their positive and negative attitudes. They were well defined and described. My heart ached for them and I secretly hoped the author had changed Dickens’ ending, too.

Life issues of despair, hope, faith, love, redemption, treachery, war, kindness, lies, and morality are intricately woven throughout this exemplary novel. At times it was hard to read, and yet at other times it was even harder to but down. I was totally captivated. My mind had no problem imagining the scenes that played out on the pages.

Even though I have read other fiction about this time period, this book taught me more than other books about the people, turmoil, surroundings, and era. It is essential that I learn something from a novel for me to really enjoy it. The second thing I need is a Christian message if it is classified as a Christian fiction book. Bravo on both points for “The Seamstress.”

This is no light, fluffy read. It portrays real life during the French Revolution and that can be brutal. This book has stuck with me long after finishing it. It was thought provoking and beautifully written. I find it hard to describe such a masterpiece.

Definitely I recommend this gem of a novel. If you are a fan of Dickens, the classics, French Revolution, or history you will swoon over this novel. It earned a five out of five stars from me.

It’s always exciting to find a book by an author you haven’t read before. My first thought after reading the first few chapters of this book – why have I not read any of Allison Pittman’s books before? It certainly isn’t because they do not exist, only because I had not yet come across them. To say this book caught me by complete surprise would probably be an understatement. As with any book you read from an author unknown to you, you aren’t sure if their writing style is going to be your cup of tea. I knew right from the beginning that Pittman and I were going to be fast friends. I knew I was going to have to search for other books that she has written and add them to my ever growing wish list. Yes, she is that good.

First, let me comment on her ability to capture two worlds in one book, a historic one at that. Quite often I read about rags to riches stories, or those who are middle of the road. The Seamstress captured both the glamorous and the struggling with ease. Pittman seamlessly transitioned between Renee and Laurette’s POV, and I found myself really connecting with both characters in different ways. I didn’t care for Laurette’s character in the beginning to be quite honest, but Pittman transitioned her and slowly put little things into place that made me change my opinion of her. In fact, I started to almost feel sorry for her.

At the end of the day it was really Renee that stole the show for me. It was so interesting to see her go from a young girl who had amazing talent with so little to practice on, to being a young woman who could really stretch her talents and have the ability to wow the judges so to speak. You can’t help but cheer her on as she makes the move to service the Queen. For the record, I applaud Pittman’s research on this topic. Not only the surroundings and characters, but the fashion behind it as well. It was just amazing to see it come to life, at least in my mind!

Historic fans will find they cannot tear their eyes away from this beautifully sewn story. Pittman easily brings historic France to life with her vivid descriptions and eloquent writing style. I cannot wait to get my hands on more of her novels! My only regret is that I had not come across them sooner. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

My Review:


Cousins Laurette and Renee are orphaned and taken in by the kindly Gagnon. Renee is a talented seamstress, and her craft takes her within the palace walls working for Queen Marie Antoinette. Laurette longs for adventure and love, following her desires.



Inspired by The Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens, this story tells of two cousins on different sides of the revolution. Renee is content with her simple, yet when she receives the opportunity to make the dreams she never dared to dream a reality she takes it. I admired her faithfulness, and level-headedness, she is plucky and strong beyond her diminutive size.



This book does a fantastic job of drawing the vast contrasts between the upper class excess of the royal family and the desperate poverty of those with a common plight. Marcel and Gagnon could not be more opposite in their philosophies. I loved Gagnon's commitment to his faith, often standing alone against the tide.



This is a riveting book that captures both sides of the revolution, showing the desperate and unsatisfied side of the wealthy in their humanity, while showing the need for change and reform in the wave of the future. Good and bad are present on boths sides of the battlelines, and in many ways I couldn't help but think of the present day and the way that many on both sides are impassioned by their political fervor. It wasn't always easy to root for Laurette, but her story arch is beautiful nonetheless. Marcel was the kind of guy that I loved to hate, yet still felt sorry for. An engagingly spun story set against the French Revolution, that I couldn't put down. Ms. Pittman is an expert of storytelling evoking stark imagery in my head that set the tone and emotion of the story.



I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

An extraordinary novel based on a classic piece of literature. Allison Pittman’s descriptive writing style made scenes come to life for me as I was reading. Throughout the tragic events of the story, there’s still a thread of hope and redemption in the darkness. You won’t soon forget these characters or their story.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
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I liked that this was a shout out to A Tale of Two Cities. I didn't care for the whole story, but it was an interesting one about the French Revolution.

I enjoyed this, my first read, by Allison Pittman. The draw for me, was that I too, am a seamstress. I love to read books about people who sew and was curious what Allison wrote. The era was probably not my favorite era, but I am a bit of a history buff and enjoy reading novels set in historical times. This was no different.

I enjoyed the characters. My two favorites probably being Gagnon and Renee. His quiet strength and confidence in God really attracted me to his character. He seemed to have a peace about him that was desirable. He was a man of great faith.
Renee, I enjoyed her character because she too was simple. She was creative and I loved reading how she could take a dress, outfit, (whatever) and give it new life. She seemed to have gained this talent from her mother. She had a kind heart and was thoughtful.
Her cousin, Laurette, annoyed me quite a bit. She seemed self-centered and reckless, drawn to danger and a little on the wild side.

Overall, I enjoyed the book. There were parts that seemed a bit long and drawn out, and occasionally seemed to have a lot of detail that might could have been left out, but then again, I am also not one for a lot of detail. I tend to like to breeze through them main exciting events of a story. However, I have to say, the more I read, the more I enjoyed the story. Words cannot really express my emotions at the end of this book.

I received this book courtesy of the publisher and Celebrate Lit. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.

The Seamstress by Allison Pittman is an amazing work of historical fiction. Fans of A Tale of Two Cities will fall in love with this book. It is obvious that the author researched this book well and she submerses you in the world of the French Revolution. I loved that the book was well researched and consistent with the Dickens novel. However, it is a really dark novel without much redemption. It is a heavy read at times. My biggest problem with the book is that I had trouble relating to the main character. She seems so naive and I just had trouble believing that she would make all the decisions she made. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

1788 Paris is dark, gritty, and terrifying; beautiful, lavish and out-of-touch. While the Seamstress by Allison Pittman has much action in the poor countryside, much thought and control are determined in the capricious capital. With its model being The Tale of Two Cities, The Seamstress yet holds forth rays of hope peeking through the backdrop of the dank Bastille on a hot, steamy day. What an incredible, overall effect the completed story has on one's heart. Abandonment, adoption, intrigue, faith, faithlessness, famine, excess, forgiveness, greed, love, lust, loyalty, rebellion in every form; all are here and present in Paris where the food is scarce and the anger is plentiful. Pittman relates her tale through two cousins, Laurette and Renee. Unsatisfied Laurette's part is told in the third person, while innocent Renee's is narrated in first. I half wondered if that encouraged the reader to favor the purer Renee? Silver-tongued Marcel and godly, poor farmer Gagnon are major players in the drama. This is certainly a character-driven novel as we see a nation fighting against itself for survival. I loved the great attention to historical detail and political climate, while God's Word was seamlessly woven into the story in small but efficient sound bites at just the right time. This is a book to leave you reeling!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review and all opinions are my own.

This is a story of complex characters who lived during a complex time in history. This all takes place right before the French Revolution. You get to meet Marie Antoinette and her children and see that she wasn’t quite as bad as she was portrayed. The rich should have been a little more understanding. They did not understand what it was like to starve. I loved the characters in the story. My favorite character was Renée. She seems to be the most level headed. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

An historical set in 1788. Two orphaned cousins that are taken in by Emile Gagnon who has the means to support them. They did have to help around his place.

Laurette and Renee end up going their separate ways through different circumstances. Laurette only left for a short time but Renee ended up leaving and becoming a seamstress for Queen Marie Antoinette. The book is based on the novel called The Tale of Two Cities. If I read that book it was a long time ago.

I did find the book interesting, good flow of words. Fast reading. The chapters did let me know which character it was about. Being in first person that was really helpful. I was disappointed at the end of the book, but don’t let that stop you from reading it. There is a lot of good scenes in the book.

I received a advanced copy of the book. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.

I found this story so beautifully crafted, obviously the author has a great mastery of writing and uses it to the fullest. Just the description of a mundane day in the life of a few people living on a little sheep farm in France was a pleasure to read. It was not heavy with intrigue, or excitement, but I was herded through the story, like the sheep on the farm. My heart was pulled and tugged at, with the sweet nature of the farm owner, who lovingly cared for young children who were orphaned and anyone else who needed help. Then my heart was crushed a few times, with bittersweet parts of the story. I can't say too much, because of spoilers. I refuse to do that, or even hint at anything that might give the story away, just not fair to the author.

The book is published under the Christian umbrella, so holding it to a higher standard, I am going to mention that there is reference to sexual activity outside of marriage, without a lot of explicit descriptions. But you do know what's going on. It is not written in a way to make it seem OK, nor is it clearly stated that it was not OK, it is written as something that happened. And let's be real ... it is something that happens, for the better or the worse, it happens. So, move on and read the remainder of the story and notice it wasn't justified or excused.

I have read some of Dickens, I believe this story holds up to the same literary standard of a Dickens novel, maybe with less words.

Disclaimer: I received this book as a gift. I received no compensation for giving a review, other than a really good read!

Inspired by a minor character in Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities, The Seamstress by Allison Pittman could be described as a tale of two cousins — orphans raised by a guardian in the tumultuous times leading up to and including the French Revolution. Pittman takes on the daunting task of creating an entire story for not only the seamstress that Sydney Carton encounters, but also for the cousin left behind in the country and produces a story that will captivate your heart and mind. Renee and Laurette, who have shared so much in their young lives, embark on very different journeys in search of purpose in the dark times in which they live. Famine for the poor and excess in the aristocrats are on a collision course that leads to violence. Such is the time period the book explores; a time of starvation, desperation, anger, and vengeance. The two cousins come to know first hand the two sides of the conflict — revolutionaries and royalty. And though both are swept into the larger drama around them, they are separate from the forces at work.

The Seamstress is a beautifully written book as complex as the time period in which it is set. Renee’s story is written in first person, while Laurette’s is a third person narrative. Secondary characters greatly influence them and their decisions. Marie Antoinette plays a large part in Renee’s life, and I appreciate the care Pittman took in fleshing out her character. There are also three important men in the novel who play pivotal roles in Renee and Laurette’s lives. My absolute favorite is Gagnon, the man who takes the two in when they are orphaned. His tender care for them and the freedom he gives the two to choose their paths, is reminiscent of the father of the Prodigal. His unconditional love and forgiveness reflect the father and the Father. Interestingly, the town from which the girls venture forth is called Mouton Blanc (White Sheep) with a church styled the Church of The Lost Sheep. Loss is great during this turbulent time (children, spouses, innocence), but also much is gained. I am still pondering the truths expressed.

The Seamstress is not a quick or easy read. It is a book to take your time with. There are spiritual threads that are subtly woven that a reader will want to take time to think about. I also think this novel would make an excellent choice for a book club. It is definitely one to talk about.

Highly Recommended.

Audience: adults.

(Thanks to Tyndale and Celebrate Lit for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

I haven't read a novel by Pittman in quite sometime, but she was one of my favorite! The Seamstress didn't disappoint and I love that it is based on a character from Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities. Doesn't that just make you want to pull out a minor side character from other classic novels and develop their story! Which book or character would you choose to write about?

The Seamstress focuses on a young orphan Renee and her cousin Laurette and how their lives progress in light of the changing circumstances around them. While they began life together, their varying choices took them down two different paths. Renee serves the queen and palace as a master seamstress, living in all it's opulence and Laurette makes some questionable choices in her search for adventure and acceptance.

The characters in this book are exquisite. Even secondary characters are beautifully developed, like steadfast Gagnon and adventurous Marcel. The history and setting are woven into the storyline in such a way that I could picture the countryside, the characters,

the devastation and despair of the public.

This has been one of the most detailed historical books I have ever read. There are twol characters in the book that are equally important to the story. Renee and Laurette are cousins and have suffered greatly in poverty in their young years. The author does an exceptional job of drawing readers in with vivid descriptions that made me feel like I was there as the two cousins leaned on each other.

The setting takes place during the French Revolution and the hardships it caused. I loved learning more about the Revolution and how it defined people during that time. The author takes two characters that are close and gives them different paths to take. Renee is a likeable character but to me was a bit naive at times. I think she was ready for something or someone to take her away to a better life. When her chance comes, she is a bit reluctant but seizes the opportunity. I loved reading how she could take a simple piece of fabric and make it into a work of beauty. With Renee suddenly finding herself living in a place with a queen must have been hard to adjust to. I loved when the queen said to Renee, " Never under estimate the value of loyalty." Our word is everything and it speaks volumes to people who come to trust us. Can Renee find happiness living in a grand place away from her cousin?


Laurette is a little more reserved and follows rule to perfection. She is sad that Renee has left, but prays for her safety and happiness. Laurette seemed to be somewhat ready to change her life. She will find herself having to make difficult choices that could cause her to go down a path not suited to her. I think I related to her because she was always seeking approval from others. Her insecurity was evident and her desire to be needed and loved sometimes made her make poor choices.
I loved the questions certain characters had about God and how one spoke up and said that in his house he would not allow anyone to speak against Him. What a great stance he took and showed how faithful he was to God. There is a strong presence of faith in the book and I liked how the author used it to show how characters needed God in times when they felt lost or alone.

It is a historical adventure with Marie Antoinette making a big splash in the story during the French Revolution. It was hard to read about how people were starving and trying to find ways to survive. There is a sense of hope in the story and it showed as people still believed that God hadn't left them. The time period is during a difficult time in history and the author captures the emotional turmoil with grace.I wanted to give a warning to those who may be sensitive to bad language, hints of unkind things done to a woman and unthinkable violence. There are a few of those moments in the book but it is done tastefully and does hinder the story at all. It is a very well written story that I will not forget.

I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher and Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

What an amazing, epic, and powerfully moving historical fiction set during the earlier years of the French Revolution. This is the first book I’ve read by Allison Pittman and she has garnered another devoted reader! The author’s writing style is hauntingly melodic and nostalgic; the combination of first person and third person narrative works well to bring a cohesive and well-constructed plot that spans quite a few years and takes place in several places. The characters are wonderfully layered, real, flawed, yet relatable and unforgettable. Faith and prayer play major roles in the characters’ lives even as the religious landscape of France changes drastically.

Laurette and Renee are cousins and worlds apart in looks, personality, faith, and outlook on life. Laurette’s story is told in third person and Renee’s in first person. Though Renee is easier to like from the beginning, Laurette grew on me as the story progressed and she herself matured. My favorite character, though not truly a main character, has to be Gagnon. His faithfulness, gentleness, loving kindness, and steadfastness even in the midst of famine and heartbreak make him a godly man, though he does have plenty of faults. This book will make you examine what it is that we live and die for and what forgiveness and mercy truly look like.

If you enjoy well-written and well-researched historical fiction, you will absolutely adore this book. It’s a must read. I was given a copy of the book by Tyndale House Publishers via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.