I haven’t read Charles Dicken’s A Tale of Two Cities since high school, and so I did not remember the character of the seamstress. However, I love reading stories about the French Revolution, as it is an often overlooked time period in my reading experience, and Allison Pittman has written an excellent novel in The Seamstress.

This is the first book I’ve read by Ms. Pittman, and I was immediately drawn in. She has created a setting and characters so vivid I could immediately see the setting and the characters in my head. The story begins when the main character, Renee, and her cousin, Laurette, are taken in by a neighbor, Gagnon, who lets them sleep in his barn and work on his farm.

Renee is a great character. She loves the farm and raising sheep, though a little too idealistic. It seems weird to say that someone who grew up in poverty and endured the struggles of that upbringing could be idealistic, but once she moved to Paris to work in the royal household, I found her often naïve and hopeful when she should have been more aware of the consequences of the unrest growing in pre-Revolutionary France.

Laurette is the other main character, and I related to her immensely. She was desperate for a place to belong and kept trying to fill it with people and things instead of God. The themes of redemption are strongest in her storyline and I found myself rooting for her as she navigated her way through a life of uncertainties and unwise choices.

The Seamstress is a book that will stick with you. I was rooting for all the characters and the portrayal of the King of France and Marie Antoinette is an interesting one, and one not often seen as they are considered the “villains” of the French Revolution.

I give this book 4/5 stars and recommend it to those wanting to read more about the French Revolution and those who enjoy nuanced takes on polarizing historical figures (in this case, Marie Antoinette). The book is well-written and the themes of redemption, what makes a family a family, and equality in the eyes of the government are given appropriate amounts of page space and conclude the story in a way that is satisfying.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through CelebrateLit. All opinions are my own.**

This historical novel set at the birth of the French Revolution captures the setting and emotions of the time. The characters seem realistic, but I didn’t feel like I could truly relate well to them. The first third of the book, I had to make myself keep reading because, although I enjoy historical books, this didn’t offer the read I expected from a Christian publisher. Too much immorality for me and so depressing. But because of others’ praise for it and my commitment to review the book, I persevered. The story is compelling, and the fates of the characters skillfully weave together in surprising ways. The latter fourth of the novel speaks more of personal faith as the tale escalates and works its way into the reader’s heart. It does give one much to think about regarding life and people’s choices and how they affect others. I enjoyed A Tale of Two Cities and have read it several times in the past. This story is based on a small character from Charles Dickens’ work. And the ending will evoke tears. History is tough and painful, as is this book. I do think it gives a better understanding of the period and presents a different perspective of Marie Antoinette. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

Allison Pittman has written a fabulous work of historical fiction set during the French Revolution, in which she uniquely portrays the revolution from the years leading up to and during the event, and from both inside Paris and in the outlying French countryside.

I had to wait a few days to write this review. I had to take it in—the story, the bigness, the voices of the characters. This ambitious novel is what I would classify as real literature, told from the points of view of cousins, one in first person, one in third. The first-person point of view almost prevented me from picking up the book, not because I’m against first person, it’s just not my favorite. HOWEVER, Ms. Pittman not only wrote the first-person voice beautifully, she moved seamlessly between the first and third character, giving a whole new depth of perspective to the story.

I also loved that all the characters are flawed, some in big obvious ways, others more subtly, and yet even the subtle flaws have huge impact on their lives. They are human. So human in fact, that this is only the second story in a long time to make me cry.

People, it’s SO GOOD.

The Seamstress is based upon a minor character in Charles Dickens A Tale of Two Cities. I believe Mr. Dickens would be pleased to be associated with Ms. Pittman’s work. I think it will end up at the end of the year as one of my favorite books of the year.

This book. While it is not what I'd call an action packed, exciting, fast paced story, it nevertheless, as I started reading, drew me in and compelled me to read. Just one more chapter.

It begins with the charming story of two cousins, living in the country, during the French Revolution. They are orphaned, and then given a place to live by kind Gagnon.

A strange twist of fate occurs and Renee leaves this safe, cozy little country cottage and goes to live at the palace with a stranger. What she experiences there is the opposite of all she's ever known.

It was truly the best of times and the worst of times. Every bit of food they had was worked for. The down-to-earthiness, the hominess of their home, meager as it was, is written about in such a way as to make you want to go there and see it. And even more, makes you feel as though you have been there.

I love reading historical fiction books, especially the ones that make you feel as though you are living right there with the characters, experiencing right there with them, all the joys and sorrows of life as they are facing them. And that is what this book does.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

4.5 Stars
Let me start by saying how amazed I am that Allison Pittman took two sentences out of a Charles Dickens book and weaved an entirely new and engaging story out of it. Two sentences about a seamstress at the end of A Tale of Two Cities and readers get this beautifully stitched juxtaposition of wealth and poverty, city and county, opulence and simple.
Told through points of view of two cousins, The Seamstress takes readers from the French countryside to the palace in Versailles. Laurette and Renee are young women living in the tumultuous preface to the French Revolution. I found it interesting how quickly their situations flipped in this story. Even more so the ease in which Pittman presented these two story lines, so different than each other, is pure mastery of writing.
While Laurette wasn’t too likable at the start of The Seamstress, she learned and grew from her impetuousness and fickle heart and by the end of the book completely changed my opinion of her. Renee, the more grounded of the cousins to begin with, is talented and loyal until the end (again, if you read about her in Dickens, you are already aware of a big spoiler. But don’t let that detour you).
From the desperation, unrest, hopelessness and filth of the common people to the elaborate fashions, décor, and excess in the lives of royalty and upper class, Pittman pours it all out onto the pages of a story that draws readers in and puts them in the middle of the French Revolution.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Seamstress by Allison Pittman is a phenomenal story. From page one to the end, I was completely captivated. The characters are well-crafted and endearing. And the setting is amazing. I felt like I was in revolutionary France during the 1790s. The Seamstress is an overall stunning read.

Laurette’s storyline is absolutely beautiful, and left me loving Jesus all the more. In her tale, Laurette eventually acknowledges how ugly her sin is, asks for forgiveness, and recognizes just how blessed she is by God. But, as is typical with humans, Laurette’s guilt over her past sticks with her a little. You see, she’s a bit like Gomer from the book of Hosea … Laurette really does struggle with believing she deserves the blessings God gives her. She looks at it all in wonder and asks God, “Why am I so richly blessed?” I love the realism in Laurette’s character. I’ve been there — feeling like I am the worst sinner on earth, and unable to understand how God could love me so much and bless me beyond what I deserve. Laurette’s tale is a great reminder that the God we serve is bigger than any mistake we may make. His love can cover a multitude of filth. We just have to be willing to go to Him and ask for His help.

Renee is a beautifully magnificent character. I knew going into this book that her story does not end well, but I didn’t care. I wanted to see how Pittman would develop this cameo character. Renee is a character full of depth, innocence, and beauty. She endeared herself to my heart right from the start. The best part of Renee’s character is her steadfastness to the Lord no matter the cost to herself. She is brave and courageous in her faith in a way that really made me take a long look at myself. How strong am I in my faith in God? Do I trust Him with my very life? Am I willing to stand for God no matter what the world is demanding from me? I’m not sure anyone can adequately answer these questions until they are tested, but I appreciate the mirror Renee’s character held up so I could contemplate the strength of my faith in God.

The beginnings of the French Revolution are happening here in America. There is so much unsubstantiated hate and baseless anger flying free today it’s sickening. The worst part is that everything is emotions-based. Fact and Truth seem to be things of the past. Mainstream American society has kicked God out and made itself its own god. The pure evil and violence illustrated in The Seamstress is terrifying, but what’s more terrifying is that I can see the unrest and grumblings happening right now in my own home state. People are screaming and yelling. They are knee-jerk reacting. And it’s 100% based on feelings. Try telling someone an actual fact and that person treats you like you’re the most intolerant, evil human who ever walked the face of the earth. It’s scary. There is one part in this novel that I really LOVED. One of the characters, Marcel, is very anti-establishment. He is part of the jeering, pamphlet-reading, screaming crowd who calls for the death of the monarchy. He underestimates the mob he’s helping to create, and when he sees what the French Revolutionists are truly capable of he realizes the errors of his emotional ways. I tell my husband often that one day all of these emotional, violent, hate-filled people we see today in America are going to get exactly what they are screaming for. But it won’t truly be what they want. Once they realize this it will be too late and too many innocent people will have been slain on their altars of blind hatred and unadulterated anger. I wish those yelling the hardest in our country would wake up because they are being played.

The Seamstress by Allison Pittman is a stellar novel — a true 2019 must-read! This book is a masterpiece in the same way A Tale of Two Cities is. The Seamstress has sown its way into my heart, and will not easily be forgotten. I highly, times infinity, recommend this amazing piece of exquisite literature.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author via Celebrate Lit through NetGalley. I also received a paperback copy of this novel via the publisher, Tyndale. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

As a Christian book reviewer, it is desire of my heart to always give an honest, but kind review. In that spirit, I will just say that this book was not my cup of tea. While this book is about a minor character from Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities, it reminded me of Les Misérables, though I’m only vaguely familiar with each book, having never read either. For those who enjoy the drama and depression of the old classics, this book may be exactly what you’re looking for. I’m not a fan of the classics anyway, so it’s not surprising that I did not enjoy this story. I did not agree with the doctrinal beliefs of the characters or their moral aptitude. I felt the proverbial “bedroom door” was not shut soon enough. I did not connect with these characters on either an emotional or spiritual level.
The historical research is well-done, and the story is well-written. Ms. Pittman takes a very realistic approach to the French Revolution. French words are sprinkled into the dialogue and narrative, enough to give a sense of time and place, but not enough to be annoying or make reading difficult. Ms. Pittman is an excellent author, and while this is the first book of hers that I’ve read, it did not dissuade me from reading her other works.

Wow what a powerful story. A step into history.

It's set in France 1788 just before, then during the French revolution. There is a place not far from where I live that was constructed with the hope that Marie Antoinette would find asylum there, but sadly she never made it. Going there, seeing how it was made ready for her, I wished I could have made or helped to make some of the things for her. In particular I remember a quilt made from velvet pieces with beautiful embroidery around each piece. My grandmother made one similar and the women in our family all stitched on it. It enhances my feeling about Marie, the war and a seamstress she might have had.

Renee is a poor girl taken in as an orphan with her cousin by a man, not that much older than them, who runs a farm that's been in his family for generations. They don't have much but she delights in small things and loves her new family, growing in a Christian way. They have a friend who believes in eliminating the royalty from France. Near their house a carriage overturns and Renee mends the gown of a woman who was within. The mending is quite clever and fashionable. The woman is close to the queen, and decides to take Renee with her.

Renee, though quite young, finds a new life at the palace, and her skills make her a favorite. I delight in reading about the fabrics and thread as the story describes how she uses them. And in the beauty of the palace. The author skillfully tells several sides of the struggle at this time and I found it very difficult to put down. It's hard not to feel strongly for the characters, and its not a very happy time overall for any of them. I like the depiction of Marie Antoinette as a good person who tried to help the poor. A get-lost-in-it book for me. Huge depths of emotion.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I only needed to read the first few pages of The Seamstress, by Allison Pittman, to know that this story was not only powerfully profound, but that it was most certainly going to have an undeniable and lasting impact upon my heart. The Seamstress is historical fiction at its absolute finest. Utterly memorable and touching, this novel is the rare piece of literature that evokes the full spectrum of human emotions, thoughts, and sympathies.
Nestled within its pages, this novel holds everything a reader wholeheartedly desires. The intensely compelling plot flows effortlessly between two points of view while also weaving together intricate scenes of adversity, suspense, intrigue, romance, sacrifice, and redemption. Every word and phrase within this outstanding book is rich with deep meaning and thoughtful purpose. The well-researched details and the remarkably stunning descriptions ensure that every moment spent reading this story is a moving experience to be savored and treasured. Most assuredly, this novel deserves numerous compliments, ongoing attention, and purposeful re-readings.
Page after page, the Seamstress succeeded in stitching an indelible pattern upon my heart and in my mind. That a story so full of tragedy and loss could be told so beautifully and still be infused with such hope is a testament to the phenomenal writing talent the author possesses. This is the first book I have read by Allison Pittman, but with it she has easily secured a place among my most favorite of authors. It is my sincere pleasure to recommend this unforgettable novel to all readers.
*I was given a copy of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley and Celebrate Lit. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.

We follow two cousins back at the time prior and during the French Revolution, living on a farm, having been given sanctuary by their guardian.
One is a talented seamstress and we follow her to the royal court and watch her win favor there. What a hard time in history for the French people, and we put faces on what leads to the over thrown of their government.
Surprises are found here, and all the way to the end I was hoping for different answers, but once you start on this story you will have to keep on reading, sheep and all, starvation and violence, you will need to know who is going to survive.

I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.

This book went on my TBR as soon as I finished reading the first line of the description. I knew exactly which cameo character the description was referring to, despite having no recollection that said character had mentioned she was a seamstress in Dickens’ tale, and I wanted to know her story. It meant that I also knew a major spoiler about the end of this novel before I even began, but in the hands of a skilled story-teller like Allison Pittman, that becomes irrelevant. It’s the journey that counts, and this one was every bit as engrossing as I hoped it would be.

The story is told from the point of view of two orphaned cousins, Renée and Laurette, who watch the revolution unfold from two very different perspectives: Renée from the gilded halls of Versailles, and Laurette from the increasingly poverty-stricken countryside, where lack of food and employment are driving people to desperation and madness. Both worlds were vividly and authentically rendered in all their complexities, and I loved the way they contrasted each other, one having all the appearance of wealth but little happiness, and the other struggling with so little yet often showcasing the generosity and strength of the human spirit.

In fact, all those contrasts mentioned in Dickens’ well-known opening permeate this story. We see the best and worst of human nature, wisdom and foolishness and their end, devout belief and incredulity at war with one another, Light piercing the Darkness, the consolation of hope in the face of despair, and, just as in A Tale of Two Cities, a bittersweet end. Quite simply, a masterly and deeply moving read.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

The Seamstress was inspired by The Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens. It was the first book that I have read by Allison Pittman. She takes the readers back in time to the time of the French Revolution in the 18th century and makes the readers feel like they are a part of the action. The chapters switched back and forth between two cousins and their differing experiences during the French Revolution. The characters had strong loyalty and patriotism toward their country, but expressed those traits in different ways. Some of the storyline was a little slower paced than I would have preferred, but fans of historical fiction will enjoy this latest novel by Allison Pittman.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I feel that I should admit that I never read A Tale of Two Cities...I know...I know...I'm missing out. But that also means I was able to be completely surprised by every nook and cranny of The Seamstress. 

There is so much more to The Seamstress than the tale of two cousins. When you read books set in the midst of war, you know there will be heartache and heartbreak. There were some wrong choices made by everyone, but what good is a perfect character?

Both girls' stories have their own path after they are separated, and I waited anxiously for the moment when they might reunite with one another. I had no idea if they ever would, it was just one of the reasons I kept reading. I felt that I knew where the story would end up, but that glimmer of uncertainty was thrilling.

While Renée had faith from the beginning, Laurette struggled to find God's goodness in the middle of her war-torn world. Only Gagnon can get through to her the power of God's love. The Seamstress was a marvelous representation that God's grace is sufficient for all needs. Even when it seemed there was no hope, God was there to lend a helping hand.

Marcel was a great voice for the revolution. His ideas might have been extreme, but he embodied the fierce desire for change...even if the way he went about his life and the way he instigated change hurt those around him.

I thought the alternating views between Laurette and Renée was thoughtfully done and the settings of each character properly described without becoming monotonous. Each character that we met had their own distinct personality, along with hopes and dreams that made them come to life. And the ending...goodness...I can't say much because I don't want to ruin it...just make sure you have tissues nearby.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to leave a review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

'Never find your esteem in the eyes of anyone other than our Heavenly Father who loves you' Gagnon.
An incredible book that is almost impossible to put down! Set as the French Revolution is simmering under the surface, the author takes us along as she weaves the life story of two young orphans, their guardian and their choices. Was it possible that being a seamstress for the queen would keep young Renee safe? How could it be, that rebellion would lead to food, being rain or end the famine? Written with such wonderful historical detail, I felt like I was there, feeling the crush of people in revolt and almost smelling the blood of those sacrificed for the cause.
I received this ARC through Tyndale House Publishers Inc. and CelebrateLit. All impressions and opinions are my own.

This is the first book I've read by Allison Pittman. The story was interesting but somehow it felt heavy. It switched back and forth between two cousins and what they were going through. The time period is just before and during the French Revolution. It was an Advanced Reader's Copy so the editing wasn't perfect but still well done.
What I liked about the book was that it was well written and the story was interesting. What I did not like was the use of the French words/terms. I speak English and sometimes the words/phrases were re-stated in English but many times they were not. If you are writing in English and want to add foreign words and phrases make sure they are re-stated in English so your readers can follow along.
I give this book three out of five stars mostly because of the French words/phrases. This is a Christian book and it is not overly preachy but does deliver the Gospel message in a nice way. I requested to read and review this book through Netgalley. The opinions are my own and freely given.

THE SEAMSTRESS by ALLISON PITTMAN is an historical novel that takes place in France during the reign of Louis VI and Marie Antoinette. It is a story that will stay with you long after you have read the last page and is both heart warming and heart wrenching.
We have all heard about the horrors of the French Revolution, of the poverty and hunger of the masses that turned to violent hatred towards the nobles and the clergy for their excesses in a time of drought and famine.
Laurette and Renee are cousins who have been taken in by Emile Gagnon who farms sheep and goats on his land in Mouton Blanc, which means "white sheep". He is a godly man who is Christlike in his protection and love for his "family". Renee is a shepherdess who is also an amazing seemstress. Laurette is more of a homemaker, making meals out of next to nothing. She also helps in looking after the two boys that Gagnon takes in, when they are abandoned by their parents.
Renee's talents are discovered by a noblewoman who takes her to Versailles where she is known as "la couturiere", and is in great demand, especially by the queen and her children.
It is a story of jealousy and passion, hatred and forgiveness, loyalty and tyranny.
I am not going to tell you any more except to say I really enjoyed this book and can highly recommend it.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

The time is late 1700s, the place is France, the economy is depressed, the taxes are outrageous, and the conditions for farming are less than ideal. Laurette and Renee are cousins who have been orphaned and have been taken in by a local sheep farmer, Emile Gagnon. Marcel is a friend to the girls, but he is also one raising up the people against the crown.

Marie Antoinette is clearly unaware of the ramifications of the actions of the king and her. This blindness to the plight of her people led to the French Revolution and to her losing her head.

Allison Pittman has taken a tough time in history and made it a compelling read. I must say that this book will bring tears to your eyes. It is a five star book, two thumbs up, and a whistle that will bring the dogs.

My thanks go to Tyndale House Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book.

As France is ready to explode in rebellion from the tyranny of the nobility, young Émile Gagnon takes in two young cousins to keep them from starving. This moving tale of the seamstress who makes a brief appearance in A Tale of Two Cities shows the good, the bad, and the ugly of France at a desperate turning point in her history. As the girls grow to womanhood they are faced with the choice of what to heed: the gentle voice of their protector calling for them to fix their eyes on God, or, that of the debonair insurgent crying out for revolution. Readers can expect to be swept away by this powerful narrative and experience this tragic time in history through the eyes of the cousins, Laurette and Renée. With a strong message of the grace of God, The Seamstress brings the conflict of the French Revolution to life in a vivid, insightful manner.

Oh my...this book is outstanding!!!

Certain to remain one of my all-time favorites, this epic novel and its characters will haunt the reader long after the last page has been read. Ms.Pittman, as a new-to-me author, blew me away with her beautiful prose that masterfully told a story set amidst the turbulent times surrounding the French Revolution. Giving a nod to Charles Dicken's Tale of Two Cities, Ms. Pittman has crafted a story with memorable characters who face the harsh realities of the time with courage. The eclectic cast of characters displayed both weakness and strength that is part of human nature as they fought for survival, loyalty and love during this difficult time. Faith threads of forgiveness and grace are woven throughout.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Netgalley and the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

A captivating tale of two cousins in the mists of the French Revolution. This contains all the elements that I love in Historical Fiction - Love, Loyalty, Amazing Characters and Events, etc. Written in a way that the modern reading can enjoy while still be immersed into a small part of the past. Without giving anything away, I'll just say I loved this reading this book.