Poignant

‘The Song of Peterloo’ – Carolyn O’Brien

Manchester 1819: Prices are high and wages are low, but as the poor become poorer, the rich are alarmed by their calls for reform.

Mill-worker Nancy Kay struggles to support her ailing mother and sensitive son. Desperate to provide for them, she is inspired to join the growing agitation. But, as she risks everything to attend a great assembly on St Peter’s Field, Nancy is unaware the day will go down in history, not as a triumph but as tragedy; the Peterloo massacre.

This is one woman’s story of belief in change, pieced together by her family and friends and the two men who share her momentous summer. A story of hope, and sacrifice, and above all, courage.

This historical tale haunted me after I had finished reading it. I did not have a complete appreciation of the characters and plot until the final page had been read and this is reflected in my star rating.

Based on a true story, the writer provides readers with a detailed insight into the events leading up to the tragic massacre. Told from different viewpoints, we gradually learn more about the female protagonist, Nancy, in her struggles for holding her family together, coupled with her desperation to build a better future for her son. I found it difficult to engage with the different characters and, whilst the narratives were cleverly different to build on the developing characterisation, I could not warm too quickly to the likes of Samson or Nancy.

It was only as the morning of the massacre dawned, did I really have a feel for plot and characters. This was the part of the story that interested me the most and I simply could not put it down. Struggling to get in to the story at the beginning, my interest in the event itself was finally satisfied in the final third of the novel. I only wish that this had featured more in the story, although I do understand why O’Brien took the time to establish a backstory for several characters. Consequently, I found the first two-thirds of the novel difficult to engage with and, at times, I did find my mind wandering. There was something about the narrative that I struggled to get into. I don’t know if it was the different Manchurian dialects or the varied perspectives. However, by the day of the massacre, I did feel ready to emotionally connect with Nancy and Samson.

This was a well-written novel and it clear that O’Brien has undertaken a lot of research about this event. I found that I learn a lot about this period of history that I only had a vague understanding of. It was interesting to read about the changes being fought to happen and Samson’s desire to educate his mill workers. If you have an interest in history and true events, then I certainly feel this book would appeal.

There is no denying the strong theme of family that runs throughout this story. Love and endurance are key in such times of struggle and Nancy represents a strong woman who is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in. Nancy is a credible character and I was rooting for her and her son, Walter, at the very end. Indeed, the closing of the novel was the most poignant for me, offering love and hope for the future.

Whilst I did initially struggle with this book, I am definitely pleased to have picked this up. An interesting read, I feel more informed about this period of history. It is something a bit different and the familial love and poignant scenes are ones that will stay with you.

I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. With thanks to everyone at Legend Press and Carolyn O’Brien for allowing me to participate in this blog tour.