“Hope, love, loss and injustice fit together to create Molly’s heroic character. A fitting prequel that will give you a fresh understanding for The Dressmaker and the tale of Tilly Dunnage in pre-war Melbourne.”
Molly completes the trilogy of The Dressmaker and the sequel The Dressmaker’s Secret by adding Molly Dunnage’s story as a prequel.
As World War One looms on the horizon, Molly resides with her father August and Aunt April in Carlton, Melbourne. Set in amongst the relentless protesting for the Suffragette and their pursuit of voting rights for women, equal rights in pay, protections in domestic violence and financial independence.
From their protests in Melbourne streets, to the inhumane work environments in their industrial sewing factory with duping and cruel foremen – Molly focuses a spotlight on life in an Australian city and the realities for women.
In amongst the unfair rules for different classes, Molly Dunnage is able to craft her unique corsetry and sewing skills to pursue financial rewards. Her supportive family guide with wisdom and humour, providing a heartwarming narrative in contrast to the harsh social times.
Conniving, manipulative power players set out to thwart her endeavours and have thoughtless regard for the price innocent Molly will pay. Hope, love loss and injustice fit together to create Molly’s heroic character. A fitting prequel that will give you a fresh understanding for The Dressmaker and the tale of Tilly Dunnage.
If you’re a fan of Kerry Greenwood’s Phryne Fisher or Pip William’s Dictionary Of Words then this is a genuine comparison.
Sue Reid
Read By Reid NZ
Macmillan Australia
ISBN 9781761561764