Fiction Review: The Fashion Designer by Nancy Moser

Book Description:

The American Dream thrives in 1912 New York City

Annie Wood, the housemaid-turned-pattern designer in The Pattern Artist, jumps at the chance to design her own clothing line when a wealthy New York couple offers to finance her endeavor. Joining the project is Annie’s new husband, Sean Culver, her best friend at Butterick, Maude Nascato, and a mother figure, Edna Holmquist.

Annie and her colleagues give up their careers, risking everything to follow a shared passion: clothes that are both fashionable and functional for modern, busy women in 1912.

Personal and financial setbacks test old relationships and new romances while threatening to keep the business from ever selling a single dress. No one said it would be easy. But the promise of the American Dream holds a deep hope for those who work hard, trust God, and never give up.

My Review:
I was delighted to read, The Fashion Designer, the follow-up story to Annie's journey into the world of design. Nancy Moser sews her research of the fashion industry in the early twentieth century into a perfect pattern of hope and determination. I loved the camaraderie of the entrepreneurial ladies and their desire to grow a business. There are many ups and downs in the story, but regardless of the situation the characters faith shines in the face of controversy. This is a book filled with excitement for women at the turn of the century, love among the wonderful characters, and hope for family and friends. I highly recommend this beautiful story. If you haven't read book one of the series, The Pattern Artist, check it out too. I received this book for free with no expectation of a good or bad review. This book is available July 1, 2018. Pre-order on Amazon.

Fiction Book Review: The Pattern Artist by Nancy Moser Description:

Description:
Born into a life of hard work, English housemaid Annie Wood arrives in New York City in 1911 with her wealthy mistress. Wide-eyed with the possibilities America has to offer, Annie wonders if there’s more for her than a life of service. Annie chooses to risk everything, taps into courage she never knew she had, and goes off on her own, finding employment in the sewing department at Macy’s. While at Macy’s Annie catches the eye of a salesman at the Butterick Pattern Company. Through determination, hard work, and God’s leading, Annie discovers a hidden gift: she is a talented fashion designer—a pattern artist of the highest degree. As she runs from ghosts of the past and focuses on the future, Annie enters a creative world that takes her to the fashion houses of Paris and into a life of adventure, purpose, and love.

My Review:

I love this book! What a treat to follow the young woman, Annie Wood, as she contemplates new adventures in America. Set in the early 1900s, I enjoyed Annie's journey through the events and turmoil of the times. Nancy Moser recreates the history of the time with a fascinating story and an excellent detailed setting. Annie meets an interesting array of friends. I just have to say, Sean is delightful! As a seamstress or "home sewer" I've made many dresses and outfits for my children and grandchildren. I've even made a wedding dress. All from patterns. So I found myself engrossed in the process and designers in the early 20th century. Whether you sew or not, this is a lovely story about interesting characters trying to make their way on the world. Along with the beautiful story, there's a bit of suspense that kept me reading. My favorite part of the book is the thread of faith and purpose the author stitches throughout. And I have to say, Sean is delightful!If you enjoy historical fiction or just a great story, I recommend The Pattern Artist.