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"The American Dream thrives in 1912 New York City Annie Wood, the housemaid-turned-pattern designer in The Pattern Artist, jumps at the chance to design her own clothing line when a wealthy New York couple offers to finance her endeavor. Joining the project is Annie's new husband, Sean Culver, her best friend at Butterick, Maude Nascato, and a mother figure, Edna Holmquist. Annie and her colleagues give up their careers, risking everything to follow a shared passion: clothes that are both fashionable and functional for modern, busy women in 1912. Personal and financial setbacks test old relationships and new romances while threatening to keep the business from ever selling a single dress. No one said it would be easy. But the promise of the American Dream holds a deep hope for those who work hard, trust God, and never give up." -- ONIX annotation.… (more)
User reviews
There was a bit of history, a lot of interesting facts and a new idea for a story. The characters were very well developed and interesting. The storyline flowed very well and was
The book I received for review stated that it was an advanced reader copy and not fully edited. I hope they do a better job than what is done now. I wouldn't normally comment on this but it was much-needed work to be done.
I do recommend this book if you enjoy historical romance that is clean and has a Christian foundation. I received this book to review free of charge and the review is my own, honest opinion.
Indeed, this was a seminal period in American history, and Moser injects the zeitgeist of 1912 into her novel from the first page. Annie Culver, the main character, represents the American dream and is a rags-to-riches story of a sort. She and her friends decide to take a risk and embark on a journey to opening their own dress shop, although their efforts are often frustrated and they must learn to rely on God and to seek and trust His plans above their own. The story explores the issues of women’s rights and women in the workforce and also delves into more somber subjects such as domestic abuse and rape. Moreover, in writing a Christian novel, Moser does not shy away from the hard questions that we all face at one time or another, and the applicability of these topics remains just as germane today, making “The Fashion Designer” a fantastic, inspirational read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Previous characters from The Pattern Artist are joined by new as Annie endeavors to set up a fashion house geared to the everyday woman. Annie’s story is the main focus, but this novel has a wonderful ensemble cast of women who are seeking to make a new way in the New York of 1912. The characters come from all backgrounds, aristocratic, immigrant, rich and desperately poor, making The Fashion Designer a slice of American life of that time. The author includes familiar New York landmarks, and even an historical figure in the fashion industry to bolster the book’s authenticity. The plot revolves around a woman’s fashion workshop, but the story expands to include the changing roles of women and their search for independence of thought and action. The novel’s male characters are varied as well, with some very supportive of their wives’ endeavors; others not so much. And speaking of male characters, although Annie and Sean are now happily married, there is some sweet romance afoot for some of Annie’s partners. The faith message is strongly woven throughout the narrative. In spite of obstacles and setbacks (and there are plenty!), the characters set their sights on God and His provision. As they struggle with maintaining faith, God shows them He is indeed in control.
While it is not necessary to read book 1 of the series to enjoy The Fashion Designer, I recommend that you do. You will want to get Annie’s whole story. A quick and easy read, this one is a great addition to your summer reading list.
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to Barbour Publishing for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Since I did not read the first novel in the series, I was totally confused for the first few chapters. I felt as if I came into a play at Act 2, instead of the beginning. A short synopsis of the first novel , placed at the beginning of the book, would really help those readers who have not read it. Finally, the background to the novel was explained as Annie thought back over her life and how it had changed. This being said, I will go back and read the first novel in the series. I think readers should read the novels in order so they can avoid this confusion.
The background on the fashion industry was very interesting, since it is an area I know nothing about. However, my aunts, mother, and grandmother all worked as seamstresses in the early 1900's, so I found it to be fascinating.
This would be a good choice for those desiring a clean, Christian novel. I received this book on NetGalley from Barbour, in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
In this sequel to the Pattern Artist, Annie and Sean are now married, and Annie, Maude, and Edna have a big purpose-to start a fashion company for the average working woman... or so they think...
I enjoyed seeing how humans planned, but God Himself came to the rescue time after time. I liked that when one person would get discouraged, another would pick up the mantle of encourager. It was interesting to see how one person of faith and vision could influence so many others. Annie succeeded because she trusted in God and she well understood her mission. “We’re offering our customers more than just a dress,” Annie said. “We’re offering them the chance to embrace their choice to be a modern woman.”
At times the book had a “Grace Livingston Hill” feel to it, as there were so many singles starting out who rather quickly found God’s choice of partner. I would have preferred a few less main circle characters and storylines, and a little more fleshing out of the forerunners.
Bottom line: while this was not one of the fastest books I’ve read, it was great for gaining insight into the mindset of the American woman in the early 1900’s. I recommend this book. It can stand alone.
I gratefully received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way influenced my opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
First time redading this author and can't wait to read more.
I am a fashion designer, published also so this book really appealed to me. So happy that the explicit details of dress making is included in with the story line.
Starts out with Annie and her friends,
There are many fall backs as things just don't go as planned. She never gives up and prays to God a lot and she knows he will send help. in his own way.
It's easy to keep the women straight and we learn about their past. Such a fascinating read, wish I had read the prior book about Annie first-will still be a good read.
So many historical events take place during this book also, valuable to the story and outcome. Love the parade-priceless! History of Lane Byrant was a big hit to read about!
Love how it all ends when things were so dismal at times. It's a wonder how they struggled or suvive, and suvive and flouish they did.
There is so much to this book: travel, adventure, mystery of robberies, romance, dress making, opinions from all angles of characters.