Bells of Lowell Vols 1-3 Author:Tracie Peterson, Judith Miller Two veteran novelists team up in this evangelical Christian historical fiction series debut that explores interesting social issues, but eventually falls flat. Nineteenth-century New England is in the throes of change as it morphs from an agricultural economy to textile industry. Caught in the growing pains of her little town of Lowell, Mass., i... more »s the comely Lilly Armbruster, who has lost the family farm through the death of her parents and the greed of her older brother. Her devotion to the ambitious Matthew Cheever is dispelled when he seemingly sells out his values to become the protege of a dubious business mentor. Lilly contracts to work in the textile mills with the idea of becoming an "instrument of God" and sabotaging the business that she feels has cost her everything she loves. The story begins promisingly enough with some discerning historical insights about the problems of industrialization for women and ethnic groups (sexual harassment, poor working conditions, prejudicial treatment), but the pacing is slow, the dialogue and actions are often wooden and the abundant sermonizing is a constant distraction. Although there are some surprises in the character development of Lilly and Matthew, other characters are one-dimensional and undergo unbelievable transformations too quickly. The sulky Lilly is also difficult for the reader to like. However, fans of Peterson and Miller will likely appreciate that the authors wrap up enough loose ends to make this work not only as a stand-alone title but also as an introduction to the series.
Daughter of the Loom: The mill town of Lowell, Massachusetts, comes to life with intrigue and drama from the creative writing team of Judith Miller and Tracie Peterson. Young women at the end of the 19th century seek employment from driven men intent on transforming America's textile industry. Daughters of the Loom features Lilly Armbruster, who is forced to work in the mills as her only means for survival. But Lilly's resentment runs deep against the "lords of the loom"--the men she believes have stolen her father's farm and caused his premature death. Her animosity happens to include Matthew Cheever, her childhood friend and one-time betrothed. Though separated by their opposing views about the future of the mill and the community that surrounds it, the emotions of their hearts still bind them. Will their dreams for the future allow their fragile love to survive?
A Fragile Design: Book 2 of The Bells of Lowell. The mill town of Lowell, Massachusetts, beckons Arabella Newberry when she decides to flee the life of the Shakers. There she finds the independence she seeks and a greater purpose as she works for educational reform. But Lowell, plagued by ethnic strife, seems no longer a safe haven but rather a danger when several girls go missing. As rumors and conflict invade the industry of the mill, Arabella struggles with her own heart as two men vie for her love.
These Tangled Threads: Book 3 of Bells of Lowell. Timid yet alluring Daughtie Winfield finds herself in a precarious position when the new doctor casts his favor upon her. Though flattered by his attention, she is drawn to Liam Donohue, a local Irish artisan. As Daughtie and Liam work together to help runaway slaves, their friendship blossoms. But her work in the mills is threatened when a downturn in profits causes the Associates to decrease wages?resulting in plans for a strike. With the fate of the textile industry in an upheaval, will her hopes for love be thwarted as dissension infiltrates life in Lowell?« less