A Lancashire Story

Austin is ambitious and marries Emma, a non-Catholic, and his career as a steam engineer takes the family through the cotton towns of early twentieth-century Lancashire. Edward is different and challenging, but the onset of war disrupts everything.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2022
Publisher: Grosvenor House Publishing Ltd

Austin's life as a miner or cotton spinner did not suit his ambitious nature. He navigated an inter-denominational marriage with Emma, a non-Catholic, and together they embarked on a journey that took them through the cotton towns of early twentieth-century Lancashire. After leaving Farnworth, a small mill town on the outskirts of Bolton, Austin's career as a steam engineer brought the family to various cotton communities.

A dozen years later, their family grew with the birth of three children: Annie, the eldest, and Thomas, the youngest, who were known for their quiet and well-behaved nature. However, Edward stood out as different. He was a rascal, always eager for fun and willing to break the rules. Family life, already challenging with a recalcitrant son, became even more demanding as the onset of war loomed large.

The war brought about significant changes in their lives. Austin's engineering skills were in high demand, and he was frequently called to work in different parts of the country. This separation from his family was difficult to manage, and the children missed their father dearly. Emma, on the other hand, took on the role of a wartime wife, supporting her husband and children through the challenges of the time.

Despite the hardships and separations, the family remained close-knit. They relied on each other for support and comfort during the darkest days of the war. They shared stories, played games, and found ways to make the most of their limited resources.

As the war drew to a close, Austin's engineering career took off, and he was offered a position in a prestigious company. The family relocated to a new town, and Austin was able to provide for his family in a way that they had never experienced before.

However, the war had left its mark on Edward. He struggled with the emotional scars of the conflict and found it difficult to adjust to the new normal. He became withdrawn and distant, and his relationship with his family suffered.

Despite the challenges, the family remained united in their love and support for each other. They sought professional help for Edward and worked tirelessly to rebuild their relationship. It was a long and difficult journey, but they eventually emerged stronger and more resilient than ever before.

In conclusion, life as a miner or cotton spinner was not for Austin, but his ambition and determination led him to a successful career as a steam engineer. The onset of war disrupted their lives, but their family's love and support helped them overcome the challenges and emerge stronger than ever before.

Weight: 424g
Dimension: 140 x 215 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803810096