Dickensblog

Have you ever wanted to know the story of the seamstress who goes to the guillotine together with Sydney Carton? You're in luck!

Yesterday was launch day for The Seamstress by Allison Pittman. I've already had a chance to read and endorse the novel, which digs deep into revolutionary French history to tell the story of Renée the seamstress, her cousin, Laurette, and their guardian, Émile. Allison has built a plausible and absorbing backstory for this character of whom we had only had a glimpse before, and I loved getting to know her better. Her talent, loyalty, and quiet strength take her farther than she ever could have dreamed, but also lead her directly into danger. But though we already know her unjust fate, it's impossible to wish that she had lived her life any other way.

Now there are two things I should tell you hardcore Dickensians going in (because you'd never forgive me if I didn't): (1) Renée's story doesn't converge with Sydney's until the end, which is understandable, since she doesn't meet him until the last moments of her life. I do like the way he's brought in, though. (2) There are some slight changes made to Dickens's account of things. You'll have to judge that part for yourself. But to do that, you'll need to read the book, and I hope you will! Aside from adding a bit of depth, color, and background to the story we already know and love, it's an excellent story in its own right.