What do you think?
Rate this book
Northern Rain: A North & South Variation
There is nothing like a long walk in the rain to guarantee a little privacy… unless the last person you wish to encounter happens also to be in search of solitude.
John Thornton is a man of heavy responsibilities who has many things on his mind, but the most troublesome of them all is Margaret Hale. She wants nothing to do with him, and he wishes he could feel the same. When a moment of vulnerability allows her a glimpse into his heart, she begins to see him very differently.
Is something so simple as friendship even possible after all that has passed between them? Thornton has every good reason to move on, not the least of which is the lovely Genevieve Hamilton and her wealthy father. Will Thornton act according to duty and accept an opportunity to save his mill, or will he take a chance on love, hoping to change Margaret’s mind?
John Thornton is a man of heavy responsibilities who has many things on his mind, but the most troublesome of them all is Margaret Hale. She wants nothing to do with him, and he wishes he could feel the same. When a moment of vulnerability allows her a glimpse into his heart, she begins to see him very differently.
Is something so simple as friendship even possible after all that has passed between them? Thornton has every good reason to move on, not the least of which is the lovely Genevieve Hamilton and her wealthy father. Will Thornton act according to duty and accept an opportunity to save his mill, or will he take a chance on love, hoping to change Margaret’s mind?
490 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2016
84 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Clarkston
29 books212 followersNicole Clarkston is a book lover and a happily married mom of three. Originally from Idaho, she now lives in Oregon with her own romantic hero, three kids who are taller than she is, and one very fat dog.
Nicole can be reached through Facebook at http://fb.me/NicoleClarkstonAuthor, Twitter @N_Clarkston, her blog at Goodreads.com, or her personal blog and website, NicoleClarkson.com.
Nicole can be reached through Facebook at http://fb.me/NicoleClarkstonAuthor, Twitter @N_Clarkston, her blog at Goodreads.com, or her personal blog and website, NicoleClarkson.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
September 16, 2016
This was a book that I was more than eager to read after following the blog tour and reading the prequel vignettes, excerpts, and guest posts and yes, winning a copy. Woohoo!
I'm fairly new to variation stories on Elizabeth Gaskell's North & South, but it is a favorite all-time story so I was eager to encounter a new 'what if' for John Thornton and Margaret Hale's tempestuous yet tender romance.
The author begins her 'what if' moment at around the midway point of the original story which means that I'd advise that reader have read or watched the movie adaption of N&S so it's not confusing.
The story opens with Margaret out for a walk and wanting to be alone when she encounters Mr. Thornton bowed down over a grave stone and troubled. She knows her rejection of his marriage proposal and subsequent situation with being caught in an embrace with a man have made her repulsive to him, but yet she is moved to share her umbrella and let him walk her home in the rain.
From then on, the pair have more tension-filled encounters that slowly lead to a friendship and understanding of each other. Meanwhile, Thornton's cotton mill is in dire straights and the man who could invest in it has strings attached to his willingness that include a beautiful, accomplished daughter who wants John Thornton for her own. Margaret has a rival that she cannot compete with and her own worries are directed to the mill for the sake of John and his workers, her father's declining health, and a man set in dredging up her secret.
This was a story that pulled me in from the beginning. I was gripped by the visceral feeling of pain, bitterness, anger, and unrequited love coming off John Thornton and the bewildered, embarrassed and compassionate feelings of Margaret. The author struck a good chord with her descriptions, dialogue, characters and plot that made me connect this story to Gaskell's work, easily.
The romance was the epicenter and yet the author broadened the scope to include a plot and cast of characters that drew in the reader and made the tension grow until there were moments at the end that left the reader unable to put the book down.
All in all, this was fantastic and I would definitely come back for more from this author. Readers who want more from Gaskell's North & South world or who simply enjoy a sweet, heartwarming historical romance should give this a try.
I'm fairly new to variation stories on Elizabeth Gaskell's North & South, but it is a favorite all-time story so I was eager to encounter a new 'what if' for John Thornton and Margaret Hale's tempestuous yet tender romance.
The author begins her 'what if' moment at around the midway point of the original story which means that I'd advise that reader have read or watched the movie adaption of N&S so it's not confusing.
The story opens with Margaret out for a walk and wanting to be alone when she encounters Mr. Thornton bowed down over a grave stone and troubled. She knows her rejection of his marriage proposal and subsequent situation with being caught in an embrace with a man have made her repulsive to him, but yet she is moved to share her umbrella and let him walk her home in the rain.
From then on, the pair have more tension-filled encounters that slowly lead to a friendship and understanding of each other. Meanwhile, Thornton's cotton mill is in dire straights and the man who could invest in it has strings attached to his willingness that include a beautiful, accomplished daughter who wants John Thornton for her own. Margaret has a rival that she cannot compete with and her own worries are directed to the mill for the sake of John and his workers, her father's declining health, and a man set in dredging up her secret.
This was a story that pulled me in from the beginning. I was gripped by the visceral feeling of pain, bitterness, anger, and unrequited love coming off John Thornton and the bewildered, embarrassed and compassionate feelings of Margaret. The author struck a good chord with her descriptions, dialogue, characters and plot that made me connect this story to Gaskell's work, easily.
The romance was the epicenter and yet the author broadened the scope to include a plot and cast of characters that drew in the reader and made the tension grow until there were moments at the end that left the reader unable to put the book down.
All in all, this was fantastic and I would definitely come back for more from this author. Readers who want more from Gaskell's North & South world or who simply enjoy a sweet, heartwarming historical romance should give this a try.
March 5, 2018
This is a lovely, beautifully written North and South variation.
It begins where Ms. Clarkson deviates from canon at roughly the middle of the source book. This is after the Union strike, after the initial marriage proposal (and refusal), and after John Thornton has hired Nicholas Higgins. Significantly, it's also after he observed Margaret's interaction with her brother Frederick (without knowing it's her brother) at the train station and her lies about being there at that time. As the magistrate in the inquiry into Leonards' death, Thornton closed the case in order to protect her but still does not understand the truth of Margaret's actions that day. All this occurs prior to the first page of this book.
Mr. Hale's health is declining, so he does not travel to visit Mr. Bell. Margaret stays in Milton with her father and encounters Mr. Thornton when she's out walking. He is at his own father's graveside on the anniversary of his death, reflecting on his disappointment in Margaret and struggling with his continued love for her despite his suspicions about her character. When a rainstorm pops up, he is without an umbrella and Margaret, observing him with pity, offers to share hers with him.
This is the first tentative step in what becomes a cordial friendship. Margaret encourages Thornton to resume his lessons for her father's sake, as Mr. Hale misses his company. They also chance to meet when each is visiting the Higgins' household. Thornton tries to accept that friendship is all he can expect from her, while Margaret gradually comes to see more sides to his character and warms to him. Mrs. Thornton, naturally, doesn't approve.
Convinced that Margaret will never be his, Thornton is presented with a very attractive alternative in Genevieve Hamilton. I applaud Ms. Clarkston for giving Margaret a rival that the reader can't help but like even though you won't root for her to get the guy. Genevieve is sincere and sweet, and she does care for Thornton. She also recognizes that he seems more interested in her new friend Margaret than in her. However, her father is a potential investor to save Marlborough Mills, and he's determined that Thornton marry his daughter. Rupert Hamilton, Genevieve's brother, is neither interested nor capable of being groomed to take over the family business, so the elder Mr. Hamilton wants a son-in-law to keep his empire alive.
Among the other characters, Thornton's sister Fanny gets more page time here. She is depicted as a thoroughly spoiled, selfish brat. Mr. Sacks is a mill worker fired with just cause who tries to stir up the Union on his behalf. Mr. and Mrs. Draper welcome Margaret's help for a hospital they plan to open in Milton, although Thornton cautions her that he doesn't trust them and she should be wary.
The first part of the book focuses on developing the romance, while the last half turns into a barrage of terrible obstacles. I even feared the author had written herself into a corner because SO much goes wrong. Margaret is facing prison, and her reputation is in shreds. Thornton's life hangs by a thread, and he is on the edge of losing his mill altogether. The climax and resolution are credible and extremely satisfying.
There is so much to admire in this story. The writing frequently evokes the Northern atmosphere (particularly the rain!). The characterizations are consistent with Gaskell's, while the new characters feel like they belong there, too. Ms. Clarkston writes out the English dialect the mill workers speak with admirable consistency. As much as I enjoyed her No Such Thing As Luck, I think this is even better.
It begins where Ms. Clarkson deviates from canon at roughly the middle of the source book. This is after the Union strike, after the initial marriage proposal (and refusal), and after John Thornton has hired Nicholas Higgins. Significantly, it's also after he observed Margaret's interaction with her brother Frederick (without knowing it's her brother) at the train station and her lies about being there at that time. As the magistrate in the inquiry into Leonards' death, Thornton closed the case in order to protect her but still does not understand the truth of Margaret's actions that day. All this occurs prior to the first page of this book.
Mr. Hale's health is declining, so he does not travel to visit Mr. Bell. Margaret stays in Milton with her father and encounters Mr. Thornton when she's out walking. He is at his own father's graveside on the anniversary of his death, reflecting on his disappointment in Margaret and struggling with his continued love for her despite his suspicions about her character. When a rainstorm pops up, he is without an umbrella and Margaret, observing him with pity, offers to share hers with him.
This is the first tentative step in what becomes a cordial friendship. Margaret encourages Thornton to resume his lessons for her father's sake, as Mr. Hale misses his company. They also chance to meet when each is visiting the Higgins' household. Thornton tries to accept that friendship is all he can expect from her, while Margaret gradually comes to see more sides to his character and warms to him. Mrs. Thornton, naturally, doesn't approve.
Convinced that Margaret will never be his, Thornton is presented with a very attractive alternative in Genevieve Hamilton. I applaud Ms. Clarkston for giving Margaret a rival that the reader can't help but like even though you won't root for her to get the guy. Genevieve is sincere and sweet, and she does care for Thornton. She also recognizes that he seems more interested in her new friend Margaret than in her. However, her father is a potential investor to save Marlborough Mills, and he's determined that Thornton marry his daughter. Rupert Hamilton, Genevieve's brother, is neither interested nor capable of being groomed to take over the family business, so the elder Mr. Hamilton wants a son-in-law to keep his empire alive.
Among the other characters, Thornton's sister Fanny gets more page time here. She is depicted as a thoroughly spoiled, selfish brat. Mr. Sacks is a mill worker fired with just cause who tries to stir up the Union on his behalf. Mr. and Mrs. Draper welcome Margaret's help for a hospital they plan to open in Milton, although Thornton cautions her that he doesn't trust them and she should be wary.
The first part of the book focuses on developing the romance, while the last half turns into a barrage of terrible obstacles. I even feared the author had written herself into a corner because SO much goes wrong. Margaret is facing prison, and her reputation is in shreds. Thornton's life hangs by a thread, and he is on the edge of losing his mill altogether. The climax and resolution are credible and extremely satisfying.
There is so much to admire in this story. The writing frequently evokes the Northern atmosphere (particularly the rain!). The characterizations are consistent with Gaskell's, while the new characters feel like they belong there, too. Ms. Clarkston writes out the English dialect the mill workers speak with admirable consistency. As much as I enjoyed her No Such Thing As Luck, I think this is even better.
July 20, 2018
Dear reader,
If you are looking for a delightful,angst filled,adorably romantic and utterly compelling N&S variation,then this book is for you!
Our story opens in a cold and rainy graveyard,where we see Mr Thornton at his father's graveside,on the anniversary of his death.
Utterly heartbroken and bereft,but not for the reasons you might think,he is relieved that any passerby would think the undulating rain the reason for his water soaked face.
In such circumstances do we learn of the real reason underlying his sadness.
We also see Margaret,who has sought a place of quiet repose to read correspondence relating to her brother Fred.
Witnessing Mr T and how upset he seems, she approaches him with a view to sharing with him the shelter of her umbrella.
Shocked at her initial approach and befuddled by her kind yet strange gesture, we are privy to the conversation that ensues while he accompanies her home.
Margaret,in a desperate attempt to both guard her secret concerning Fred and clear her name and reputation in his eyes,alludes cryptically to her mother's dying wish for all her loved ones to be present when she took her final breath,which serves to encourage Mr T to puzzle the meaning of this out for himself.
When he has done so,we see the tendrils of a growing understanding between John and Margaret,which slowly and agonisingly develops into a beautiful and touching romance.
Of course their budding courtship is not without its fair share of angst,heartbreak, trials and tribulations.
In fact even when we are delightfully expecting the long awaited proposal,the fates conspire to thwart what should have been a day of joy and happiness. The reason for such,dear reader,you will have to discover for yourself!
There are numerous aspects of this story that I loved- the romantic and extremely loyal John Thornton,Master of MM,but first and foremost the defender of Margaret when all the world seemed blind to her attributes......
......the strong,independent and gloriously loyal Margaret,who put her love for John ahead of her own personal happiness......
.....the love story that was John and Margaret...the rose patterned tea set....
.........the 'meeting' that arose between Mrs T and Margaret (there's nothing like being supported by a future mother-in-law when faced with vociferous and spiteful gossip,and to see Mrs T in action must be read to be believed.....the tenderness and understanding she showed to Margaret was so touching to read!!!).
I cannot leave without mentioning how I much I admire the writer's angst ridden plot and the central characters,who,on first meeting, gave no hint of their Machievellian type plans!!!
I must admit to being extremely worried about how such a plot could be foiled,how both Margaret and John could extricate themselves from the mess they had inadvertently landed themselves in!
I was so immersed in the last few chapters as I could not see a happy ever after for ODC! Oh! The angst,the uncertainty, the 'what ifs' that were going through my mind,I was hooked right up to the end!!!
This was a beautifully crafted book,obviously a labour of love.
It was utterly compelling and a must read for all fans of Gaskell's beloved couple.
While authors like Ms Clarkston continue to pen such stories,John and Margaret can reside a little longer in our hearts and minds.
I can only thank her for writing this literary gem and trust that you will love it as much as I did!
If you are looking for a delightful,angst filled,adorably romantic and utterly compelling N&S variation,then this book is for you!
Our story opens in a cold and rainy graveyard,where we see Mr Thornton at his father's graveside,on the anniversary of his death.
Utterly heartbroken and bereft,but not for the reasons you might think,he is relieved that any passerby would think the undulating rain the reason for his water soaked face.
In such circumstances do we learn of the real reason underlying his sadness.
We also see Margaret,who has sought a place of quiet repose to read correspondence relating to her brother Fred.
Witnessing Mr T and how upset he seems, she approaches him with a view to sharing with him the shelter of her umbrella.
Shocked at her initial approach and befuddled by her kind yet strange gesture, we are privy to the conversation that ensues while he accompanies her home.
Margaret,in a desperate attempt to both guard her secret concerning Fred and clear her name and reputation in his eyes,alludes cryptically to her mother's dying wish for all her loved ones to be present when she took her final breath,which serves to encourage Mr T to puzzle the meaning of this out for himself.
When he has done so,we see the tendrils of a growing understanding between John and Margaret,which slowly and agonisingly develops into a beautiful and touching romance.
Of course their budding courtship is not without its fair share of angst,heartbreak, trials and tribulations.
In fact even when we are delightfully expecting the long awaited proposal,the fates conspire to thwart what should have been a day of joy and happiness. The reason for such,dear reader,you will have to discover for yourself!
There are numerous aspects of this story that I loved- the romantic and extremely loyal John Thornton,Master of MM,but first and foremost the defender of Margaret when all the world seemed blind to her attributes......
......the strong,independent and gloriously loyal Margaret,who put her love for John ahead of her own personal happiness......
.....the love story that was John and Margaret...the rose patterned tea set....
.........the 'meeting' that arose between Mrs T and Margaret (there's nothing like being supported by a future mother-in-law when faced with vociferous and spiteful gossip,and to see Mrs T in action must be read to be believed.....the tenderness and understanding she showed to Margaret was so touching to read!!!).
I cannot leave without mentioning how I much I admire the writer's angst ridden plot and the central characters,who,on first meeting, gave no hint of their Machievellian type plans!!!
I must admit to being extremely worried about how such a plot could be foiled,how both Margaret and John could extricate themselves from the mess they had inadvertently landed themselves in!
I was so immersed in the last few chapters as I could not see a happy ever after for ODC! Oh! The angst,the uncertainty, the 'what ifs' that were going through my mind,I was hooked right up to the end!!!
This was a beautifully crafted book,obviously a labour of love.
It was utterly compelling and a must read for all fans of Gaskell's beloved couple.
While authors like Ms Clarkston continue to pen such stories,John and Margaret can reside a little longer in our hearts and minds.
I can only thank her for writing this literary gem and trust that you will love it as much as I did!
July 9, 2016
4.5 stars
I am a huge reader of P&P variations but have read several sequels for North and South; it being another favorite story for me. When someone recommended Northern Rain to me and compared it to P&P and it then was available on kindle Unlimited I decided to vary my reading pattern for this book. I am very glad I took that step.
The title is immediately brought into play as John Thornton makes his annual visit of homage to his father's grave site. And despite his intuition that it was going to rain makes a decision not to bring an umbrella. After all, rain hides any tears which might escape and trickle down one's face. Margaret Hale has also sought an out-of-the way place to read the letter containing results into the investigation as to hopes that her brother has a chance of exoneration and, thus, a chance to once again return to his homeland and the arms of his family. She is sorely disappointed.
Then as she is leaving her spot of contemplation she realizes that she will pass near a man standing in a grave yard and she realizes it is HIM. She ponders an attempt to pass unnoticed but he turns and their eyes meet. After some awkward silence she offers her umbrella to the man and with small back and forth niceties she accepts his offer to walk her home. Thus the ice is broken.
Yes, you do have to know the story, This is not a stand alone novel. There is that prior proposal during which many hateful and harmful words were spoken and misunderstandings directing those words exchanged. But in this story John is urged to take up again his "lessons" with Mr. Hale and seeing that this will give him a chance to perhaps be in her presence, even exchange a word or two, he takes up that weekly appointment again. And he also becomes friendlier with Nicholas and in visits to that man's humble abode "runs" into Margaret.
So John is not without hope and as Margaret smiles and allows him to walk with her on occasion and talk with her sees some warm regard from her smiles and shy glances...he thinks.
This story proceeds slowly in the first half of the book. It is reflective of the original story...BUT hold on....what might seem to be developing into a romance has been noticed and other people from various walks of life in Milton are not going to allow that to happen without their own plans to foil and redirect attentions in romance, in business and in the goals for their own satisfaction.
Things become very twisted as John's sister, Fanny and several new acquaintances Genevieve and Rupert Hamilton, Randall and Emmeline Draper seem to vie for their own purposes…be it a romance or even works of charity. Then there remain our old friends: Mr. Bell and Mr. Watson and not to mention Margaret’s London family and friends. The plot seems hell bent to take away any chance for ODC and even to send them back to roles as indifferent strangers but don’t despair.
The author has us now turning pages quickly and encountering much angst but we do get what we want…a happy ending, an Oh, so sweet ending. I did enjoy this story but there were times when I had to question Margaret’s part in the scheme of things, “Is she to be a martyr here or is she really so good, so altruistic…a saint?” Self denial is not a pretty picture.
I am a huge reader of P&P variations but have read several sequels for North and South; it being another favorite story for me. When someone recommended Northern Rain to me and compared it to P&P and it then was available on kindle Unlimited I decided to vary my reading pattern for this book. I am very glad I took that step.
The title is immediately brought into play as John Thornton makes his annual visit of homage to his father's grave site. And despite his intuition that it was going to rain makes a decision not to bring an umbrella. After all, rain hides any tears which might escape and trickle down one's face. Margaret Hale has also sought an out-of-the way place to read the letter containing results into the investigation as to hopes that her brother has a chance of exoneration and, thus, a chance to once again return to his homeland and the arms of his family. She is sorely disappointed.
Then as she is leaving her spot of contemplation she realizes that she will pass near a man standing in a grave yard and she realizes it is HIM. She ponders an attempt to pass unnoticed but he turns and their eyes meet. After some awkward silence she offers her umbrella to the man and with small back and forth niceties she accepts his offer to walk her home. Thus the ice is broken.
Yes, you do have to know the story, This is not a stand alone novel. There is that prior proposal during which many hateful and harmful words were spoken and misunderstandings directing those words exchanged. But in this story John is urged to take up again his "lessons" with Mr. Hale and seeing that this will give him a chance to perhaps be in her presence, even exchange a word or two, he takes up that weekly appointment again. And he also becomes friendlier with Nicholas and in visits to that man's humble abode "runs" into Margaret.
So John is not without hope and as Margaret smiles and allows him to walk with her on occasion and talk with her sees some warm regard from her smiles and shy glances...he thinks.
This story proceeds slowly in the first half of the book. It is reflective of the original story...BUT hold on....what might seem to be developing into a romance has been noticed and other people from various walks of life in Milton are not going to allow that to happen without their own plans to foil and redirect attentions in romance, in business and in the goals for their own satisfaction.
Things become very twisted as John's sister, Fanny and several new acquaintances Genevieve and Rupert Hamilton, Randall and Emmeline Draper seem to vie for their own purposes…be it a romance or even works of charity. Then there remain our old friends: Mr. Bell and Mr. Watson and not to mention Margaret’s London family and friends. The plot seems hell bent to take away any chance for ODC and even to send them back to roles as indifferent strangers but don’t despair.
The author has us now turning pages quickly and encountering much angst but we do get what we want…a happy ending, an Oh, so sweet ending. I did enjoy this story but there were times when I had to question Margaret’s part in the scheme of things, “Is she to be a martyr here or is she really so good, so altruistic…a saint?” Self denial is not a pretty picture.
March 12, 2017
If you don’t know it already, this wonderfully written story will show you that Nicole Clarkston’s Mr Thornton is every bit as swoon-worthy as her Mr Darcy (if not even more so!). Resilient, loyal to a fault, dedicated to his work and the people he loves, he commands our esteem and affection with everything he does, says and is. This delightful variation shows him establishing a fragile truce with the woman who broke his heart and severely disappointed him, and whom he still loves despite himself, only to find the truce growing into friendship long before he learns how wrong he was in his assumptions. The way John Thornton learns that Margaret is wholly innocent comes as a beautiful and highly rewarding surprise, and the delightful interlude that follows will make you smile and will melt your heart. The path to the happily ever after is far from smooth, but the read is pure joy. Not just because of John Thornton and Margaret’s portrayal, but that of other major characters too. I particularly like Mrs Thornton in Nicole Clarkston’s variations. She loves her son unconditionally and boundlessly, but she is neither obsessive with it, nor determined to jealously keep him to herself. Her cold exterior hides a warm and fair heart and a forgiving temper. In this novel she rises to the occasion in a way that almost made me cheer out-loud. A beautiful story all the way to the delicious happily ever after.
November 16, 2017
This is a home run. Period. No more to say. Oh well, maybe one bit more: GRAND SLAM!
Ms Clarkston has mined (or perhaps 'milled' is a better word) the Gaskell North and South realm to create a wonderful love/suspense story. This is a continuation of her speculation which began with "No Such Thing as Luck."
The plotlines continue the earlier book, squeezing the angst-ridden encounter between Margaret Hale and John Thornton for every ounce of pathos and misunderstanding. Her deft handling of the characters makes them all the stronger images in the reader's mind.
Finally, Ms Clarkston's writing is smooth as silk. T'is a pleasure to read...and immerse one's self in its lyrical flow.
Ms Clarkston has mined (or perhaps 'milled' is a better word) the Gaskell North and South realm to create a wonderful love/suspense story. This is a continuation of her speculation which began with "No Such Thing as Luck."
The plotlines continue the earlier book, squeezing the angst-ridden encounter between Margaret Hale and John Thornton for every ounce of pathos and misunderstanding. Her deft handling of the characters makes them all the stronger images in the reader's mind.
Finally, Ms Clarkston's writing is smooth as silk. T'is a pleasure to read...and immerse one's self in its lyrical flow.
June 30, 2016
I did like this book. This lady certainly can write. I thought she captured the essence of the original North and South perfectly. It is a blockbuster of a novel like the original. I thought the chapters where Mr Hamilton was giving John his ultimatum were a tad melodramatic and at that point I was getting a little sceptical about where it was going. But all worked out well.
It was great to see John Thornton as a flesh and blood human being. I love the dvd but always thought John was a bit stiff and unreal at times. Margaret too, was guilty of this but her more human side showed through in her dealings with the Higgens family. However, here we have them warts and all and it was great. There were some lovely tender scenes between them both. And I loved the epilogue at the end to round things off.
The Drapers were very well written. Totally unlikeable characters and that leapt off the page in spades. Genevieve Hamilton was a peculiar character. Likeable one minute, horrible the next and then redeemed herself at the end.
Here we even see a soft side of Hannah Thornton. Lord Almighty did you ever thing you'd see the day! It was good how she finally took to Margaret and even backed her in public. But she's a strange creature and way too jealous of her sons relationship.
But it's a very, very good read and I'd recommend it to anyone who loves North and South.
It was great to see John Thornton as a flesh and blood human being. I love the dvd but always thought John was a bit stiff and unreal at times. Margaret too, was guilty of this but her more human side showed through in her dealings with the Higgens family. However, here we have them warts and all and it was great. There were some lovely tender scenes between them both. And I loved the epilogue at the end to round things off.
The Drapers were very well written. Totally unlikeable characters and that leapt off the page in spades. Genevieve Hamilton was a peculiar character. Likeable one minute, horrible the next and then redeemed herself at the end.
Here we even see a soft side of Hannah Thornton. Lord Almighty did you ever thing you'd see the day! It was good how she finally took to Margaret and even backed her in public. But she's a strange creature and way too jealous of her sons relationship.
But it's a very, very good read and I'd recommend it to anyone who loves North and South.
May 2, 2018
Another brilliant book from Nicole Clarkston. In this variation, a chance meeting between Margaret and John allows her to see his sadness, sensitivity and vulnerability and her feelings start to change... while he begins to hope.
This is a long story but there is always a lot going on. Whilst I didn't enjoy this quite as much as 'There's no such thing as Luck', the story was more realistic and consequently there is a real depth to the characters and their relationships. I love this John Thornton and Margaret Hale... their relationship develops beautifully and their is a real sense of fun in their interactions. Against the backdrop of difficulty, corruption, illness and potential ruin, their relationship is lovely and gives the sense that true love really can find a way.
I'd highly recommend this... it's a rather mammoth read but well worth the effort!
This is a long story but there is always a lot going on. Whilst I didn't enjoy this quite as much as 'There's no such thing as Luck', the story was more realistic and consequently there is a real depth to the characters and their relationships. I love this John Thornton and Margaret Hale... their relationship develops beautifully and their is a real sense of fun in their interactions. Against the backdrop of difficulty, corruption, illness and potential ruin, their relationship is lovely and gives the sense that true love really can find a way.
I'd highly recommend this... it's a rather mammoth read but well worth the effort!
August 7, 2016
Umbrellas and Understanding
A good variation. Ms. Clarkston fills her story with full, beautiful descriptions of the canon characters, as well as her original additions. This John Thornton is far more sensitive than the forbidding master met in the original, and that insight allows the reader to more fully understand Margaret's adoration. There are some credibly charming scenes. A good plot is filled with trials and tribulations but around two-thirds through I was hoping for resolution. After another dramatic crisis ensues, the story moves toward a rapid conclusion.
A good read, a lot of longed for kisses, and yes, Hannah Thornton, too, learns to love.
A good variation. Ms. Clarkston fills her story with full, beautiful descriptions of the canon characters, as well as her original additions. This John Thornton is far more sensitive than the forbidding master met in the original, and that insight allows the reader to more fully understand Margaret's adoration. There are some credibly charming scenes. A good plot is filled with trials and tribulations but around two-thirds through I was hoping for resolution. After another dramatic crisis ensues, the story moves toward a rapid conclusion.
A good read, a lot of longed for kisses, and yes, Hannah Thornton, too, learns to love.
July 11, 2024
Oh man this book was just as good as No Such Thing As Luck. It's a definite page turner.
Rating: 4 1/2 stars out of 5
Rating: 4 1/2 stars out of 5
October 1, 2016
What a wonderful "what if"!
Sweet and intriguing, amidst gossip and people advancing their own agendas they got to know each other and...
Read the story, it's worth it!!
Sweet and intriguing, amidst gossip and people advancing their own agendas they got to know each other and...
Read the story, it's worth it!!
July 27, 2016
Northern Rain by Nicole Clarkston is the first variation of North and South that I have read and I cannot be happier to have started with this book. I was very lucky to win an e-book on a giveaway organised on an amazing blog that I follow: From Pemberley to Milton. I highly recommend you to check it out.
It is a tender story where you can see John’s powerful feelings and even teasing moments. At the same time, Margaret is even more selfless and generous than in the original book.
Everything starts in a raining day, 17th October, when we can find Mr. Thornton in deep reflexion looking at his father’s tombstone.
Margaret Hale sees him and even with all the awkwardness she feels, her generous heart binds her to show comfort to that man that makes her uncomfortable after everything that they have already lived together. John is moved by other things apart from the anniversary of his father’s death. His mind and heart go back to the only woman he will only love and of a sudden, she appears next to him much to his chagrin but also to his delight.
This first encounter works little miracles as Margaret sees a different side of John and also John battles between pleasure and discomfiture because he knows that he still loves her even if she dislikes him so much as to refuse him plainly “three months, twelve days, and four hours” ago (Mr. Thornton, Northern Rain).
As the Spanish saying says “familiarity creates affection”, that is exactly what happens with these two lovely characters. They see each other more and they start sharing precious time together. There are many great moments shared and a few previous misunderstandings that get clear during this book, for instance, the mysterious man at the train station. I have liked how John gets to know the truth and how that leads to the high point to their relationship, or the starting point, that is just a very endearing scene in the kitchen.
Fortunately, they start understanding each other:
Where at first she had seen only a man business, set upon bending the world to his will, she now saw a quite different person.
(…) he began to truly comprehend the oppressive weight placed upon Margaret’s fine shoulders.
When they become sort of friends, complications appear to make this pair suffer and it does not look good at all: problems at Marlborough Mills, charity fraud involving Margaret, explosions with casualties, a raider only interested on his own profit that would give his own daughter to enhance his benefits, untrusting police, health problems, and a bit more!!
SPOILER ALERT!!
There is a happy ending but how will they overcome all the problems and obstacles?
You need to read Northern Rain, it is a great book and you will adore the epilogue!!
It is a tender story where you can see John’s powerful feelings and even teasing moments. At the same time, Margaret is even more selfless and generous than in the original book.
Everything starts in a raining day, 17th October, when we can find Mr. Thornton in deep reflexion looking at his father’s tombstone.
Margaret Hale sees him and even with all the awkwardness she feels, her generous heart binds her to show comfort to that man that makes her uncomfortable after everything that they have already lived together. John is moved by other things apart from the anniversary of his father’s death. His mind and heart go back to the only woman he will only love and of a sudden, she appears next to him much to his chagrin but also to his delight.
This first encounter works little miracles as Margaret sees a different side of John and also John battles between pleasure and discomfiture because he knows that he still loves her even if she dislikes him so much as to refuse him plainly “three months, twelve days, and four hours” ago (Mr. Thornton, Northern Rain).
As the Spanish saying says “familiarity creates affection”, that is exactly what happens with these two lovely characters. They see each other more and they start sharing precious time together. There are many great moments shared and a few previous misunderstandings that get clear during this book, for instance, the mysterious man at the train station. I have liked how John gets to know the truth and how that leads to the high point to their relationship, or the starting point, that is just a very endearing scene in the kitchen.
Fortunately, they start understanding each other:
Where at first she had seen only a man business, set upon bending the world to his will, she now saw a quite different person.
(…) he began to truly comprehend the oppressive weight placed upon Margaret’s fine shoulders.
When they become sort of friends, complications appear to make this pair suffer and it does not look good at all: problems at Marlborough Mills, charity fraud involving Margaret, explosions with casualties, a raider only interested on his own profit that would give his own daughter to enhance his benefits, untrusting police, health problems, and a bit more!!
SPOILER ALERT!!
There is a happy ending but how will they overcome all the problems and obstacles?
You need to read Northern Rain, it is a great book and you will adore the epilogue!!
September 11, 2019
"Guide your steps by what is right and noble, and do not allow yourself to become distracted by other grievances." (quote from the book)
I think this quote sums up John Thornton perfectly.
But let me tell you, was this ever a beautifully written, slow burn of yearning variation to Elizabeth Gaskell's "North & South". Ms. Clarkston's ability to capture the very essence of John Thornton and Margaret Hale, along with the atmospheric feel of Milton and that agonizing sense of anticipation that builds between our beloved characters, was exquisite torture.
"She could not know how this moment, sharing the same space and the same air with her, was equal parts anguish and ecstasy to him." (quote from the book)
Nor, could they both know the manipulations, roadblocks and villainy that would hamper their way, as they built a tenuous friendship from the ashes of their past relationship. Being back in the lives of our beloved Milton couple, has me yearning for more from the ever talented Ms. Clarkston.
Read
January 21, 2017Favourite quotes -
"Just over a quarter of a year since his heart had found the courage to beat once more, and then had been promptly crushed for its audacity."
"Man, after all, was not made only to labour, to produce, and then to expire. He was shaped for life, to search beyond himself and to seek his peace in relationship."
"Just over a quarter of a year since his heart had found the courage to beat once more, and then had been promptly crushed for its audacity."
"Man, after all, was not made only to labour, to produce, and then to expire. He was shaped for life, to search beyond himself and to seek his peace in relationship."
November 13, 2018
Overall, pretty good. Though it does do which I will never not find annoying.
April 28, 2021
I’ve always loved Margaret’s and John’s story, set in the industrial Milton. They are both great characters and their story (original), still captures many readers up till this day.
Theirs isn’t an easy path to each other, yet they challenge each other, develope character-wise and that despite or maybe because of their different background. Romantic South meets rough North.
This is a timeless classic. Yet in the end it feels like somethings missing. Do you know what I mean? Like a part of the story is missing, and the audience finishes those blanks in their minds.
Nicole Clarkston picks up after Margaret’s mother dies, and adds new characters, in this case the Hamilton Family. They add to the story and develope not only the existing main characters, but also gives the couples budding courtship an authentic stage.
As Malborough Mills is struggling after the strike, John is looking for a business partner. Along with the patriarch comes the whole family with not only financial interests. New acquaintances are formed and test existing relationships.
I truely enjoyed the dynamics, not just Margaret and John but also her relationship with Mrs Thornton. She is involved by observing and encouraging her sons courtship. Also she observes Miss Hamiltons interest in her son sceptically.
John’s battle to keep Malborough Mills running is continued, as he negotiates potential business partners while staying true to himself and winning over Margaret in a slow paced and sweet romance.
The graveyard, rain and an umbrella become an returning element of the story. Not surprisingly John and Margaret walking side by side with him holding an umbrella are on the cover of the book.
It really is a joy to read how all of these factors enrichen the original plot in a way that feels authentic.
It truly is a skill to take existing elements, add new ones and make it feel to the reader as if it really does fit all together and should have been there all along.
What added to the story for me personally, was that I actually visited said graveyard, thus the story became even real in my head. Not to mention the streets of Edinburgh as a setting which I remember vividly still.
A well written variation and worth reading.
Theirs isn’t an easy path to each other, yet they challenge each other, develope character-wise and that despite or maybe because of their different background. Romantic South meets rough North.
This is a timeless classic. Yet in the end it feels like somethings missing. Do you know what I mean? Like a part of the story is missing, and the audience finishes those blanks in their minds.
Nicole Clarkston picks up after Margaret’s mother dies, and adds new characters, in this case the Hamilton Family. They add to the story and develope not only the existing main characters, but also gives the couples budding courtship an authentic stage.
As Malborough Mills is struggling after the strike, John is looking for a business partner. Along with the patriarch comes the whole family with not only financial interests. New acquaintances are formed and test existing relationships.
I truely enjoyed the dynamics, not just Margaret and John but also her relationship with Mrs Thornton. She is involved by observing and encouraging her sons courtship. Also she observes Miss Hamiltons interest in her son sceptically.
John’s battle to keep Malborough Mills running is continued, as he negotiates potential business partners while staying true to himself and winning over Margaret in a slow paced and sweet romance.
The graveyard, rain and an umbrella become an returning element of the story. Not surprisingly John and Margaret walking side by side with him holding an umbrella are on the cover of the book.
It really is a joy to read how all of these factors enrichen the original plot in a way that feels authentic.
It truly is a skill to take existing elements, add new ones and make it feel to the reader as if it really does fit all together and should have been there all along.
What added to the story for me personally, was that I actually visited said graveyard, thus the story became even real in my head. Not to mention the streets of Edinburgh as a setting which I remember vividly still.
A well written variation and worth reading.
December 16, 2019
Started off really well, but then dragged and became a bit melodramatic.
The characters all sounded like those from the original book, which was well done, although once John and Margaret were mutually in love and all past misunderstandings about Frederick were cleared up, the whole 'Oh no, I can't marry you! We must not be together! It's for your own good!' started to get on my nerves.
I confess I had to force myself to finish at that point, and skim read the last half of the novel.
The characters all sounded like those from the original book, which was well done, although once John and Margaret were mutually in love and all past misunderstandings about Frederick were cleared up, the whole 'Oh no, I can't marry you! We must not be together! It's for your own good!' started to get on my nerves.
I confess I had to force myself to finish at that point, and skim read the last half of the novel.
January 14, 2017
I love Elizabeth Gaskell's "North and south", and this is the first adaptation I've read of this novel. I can only say that I felt I was reading "North and south" all over again. The writing was wonderful, and the story-line was perfect. Once I started the book and couldn't put it down.
June 12, 2022
Booo! DNF at 60%. Saccharine and unfaithful to the characters. Also, shockingly unfaithful to the mores and habits of the time. Fine enough at the beginning but I can pinpoint the exact moment things went left—right around 37% of the way through. Disappointed :/
November 14, 2016
Excellent work. Full review to come on The Calico Critic on 9/10/2016.
July 24, 2016
Stunning. This was my first North & South variation and I was absolutely bewitched.
October 19, 2020
I loved the premise, but several of the linguistic decisions jarred so badly that the last 25% changed from a joy to a slog. Gutted about this as the story itself was compelling.
July 9, 2021
This was cute! It felt a little too angsty for my personal tastes, though(I'm a wimp, and I can't take any uncertainty and I hate feeling like something big and horrible is about to happen). There were a lot of moments when I was sure she would deny him again or there would be a fight or breakup. Some moments were very tense. This felt a lot like the original North & South. John, especially, I could picture in my head. I had a hard time figuring out where in the original this book started. Had Bessy already passed? What plot points had happened in the original before this version took over? This was kind of like a continuation, but that took a different path than the original. It felt very genuine. I loved the banter we saw between Margaret and John. It felt like fanfiction to a point, but not in a bad way! This one is closer to 4 stars than 3. I enjoyed it overall but all the angst and the "will they, won't they" was KILLING me. Obviously this book was pretty clean and chaste, which I expected. We did witness a few sweet kisses though. I wanted to shake Margaret a few times - he loves you, just marry him already! He doesn't care about the mill or reputations, he just wants to marry you! She kept playing the martyr I guess, asking him to delay the marriage for the benefit of the mill workers. And then running away to London because of the inspectors threats. One obstacle after another, but in the end they got their HEA!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2023
Wonderful
Love this author, so tried this North and South variation, and it made me want to re-read the original. Nicole Clarkston/Alix James is an automatic purchase for me when she creates JAFF variations. This story takes place after Margaret Hale has already refused John Thornton's marriage proposal, and after the rioting at the cotton mills. Margaret slowly learns that John is an honorable man, and that he has a side to his personality that is seldom seen, as a person who cares about his fellow man. Through his weekly visits to her father for lessons on classic literature, Margaret has a chance to know John better, and she falls in love with him.
The romance in this story is superb. I deducted a couple of stars for a couple of reasons. One is the amount of melodrama. It's excessive. I kept wondering what else could possibly go wrong for this couple, and then the author would come up with another major scandal or dilemma. Another reason is the amount of melancholy. It casts a pall over the whole book, and gives the story a very depressing tone. Mr Hale is constantly depressed. John Thornton is always beset by troubles. Margaret is constantly beset by self doubt and worry. There's very little joy in the story. Thank goodness that there's some lovely romance!
However, the book is very well written and well edited. I recommend it if you love North and South.
Love this author, so tried this North and South variation, and it made me want to re-read the original. Nicole Clarkston/Alix James is an automatic purchase for me when she creates JAFF variations. This story takes place after Margaret Hale has already refused John Thornton's marriage proposal, and after the rioting at the cotton mills. Margaret slowly learns that John is an honorable man, and that he has a side to his personality that is seldom seen, as a person who cares about his fellow man. Through his weekly visits to her father for lessons on classic literature, Margaret has a chance to know John better, and she falls in love with him.
The romance in this story is superb. I deducted a couple of stars for a couple of reasons. One is the amount of melodrama. It's excessive. I kept wondering what else could possibly go wrong for this couple, and then the author would come up with another major scandal or dilemma. Another reason is the amount of melancholy. It casts a pall over the whole book, and gives the story a very depressing tone. Mr Hale is constantly depressed. John Thornton is always beset by troubles. Margaret is constantly beset by self doubt and worry. There's very little joy in the story. Thank goodness that there's some lovely romance!
However, the book is very well written and well edited. I recommend it if you love North and South.
October 9, 2020
A wonderful alternative universe (AU), set after Margaret's rejection of John Thornton's proposal, in which Margaret later finds Thornton at his father's grave in the pouring rain. Thus, Margaret's dislike of Thornton begins to shift towards compassion and understanding, as she has also lost a parent. Includes some well-done what-if: what if Thornton helped Mr. Hale see a doctor and he lived, what if Thornton was being blackmailed, what if one of Fanny's friends was obsessed with Thornton, what if Margaret's do-gooder attitude led her to trust the wrong people? My only disappointment: Thornton gets into a fight and instead of writing this scene first-hand, the author decided to have Thornton vaguely describe the event later. I know it would be challenging to write, but the story built to that moment and I really wanted to know exactly what John Thornton said and did.
October 1, 2024
I seem to be in the minority but I really disliked this book. It might have been a bit better if it didn’t rely so much on the original material, but I cannot forgive it because it butchers some of my most beloved characters. Worse than that it’s just plain boring - variations like The Other Bennet Sister weave in intriguing new elements, characters and points of view; this just took already intriguing characters and made them less complex and multi-dimensional, why would you do that? Also the editors missed a few anachronisms and Americanisms e.g. using “fall” instead of autumn, etc. a minor annoyance compared to the characters but still more to take you out of the story.
March 31, 2021
Don't know what has happened to me but I have now read four N&S fan fiction books. This was the best of them (so far). It follows an alternative time line to much of the orginal book but really expands on John's story. It adds so much more detail to John's financial difficulties and adds a whole new story line to John being an attractive prospect for the lady's of Milton.
It is funny that everybody takes Milton for Manchester but in this book Manchester is a seperate city.
It is funny that everybody takes Milton for Manchester but in this book Manchester is a seperate city.
February 2, 2023
Northern Rain by Nicole Clarkston is a retelling of the novel North and South. It’s a slow read to start and doesn’t seem to add anything more to the story but a few extra characters who are really not needed to enhance the story and at times seem to drag the whole storyline to a slow boring crawl. I would suggest to most readers to readers to skip this book and pick up the original North And South you will be glad you did. I can not recommend this book to anyone. 👎👎
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2017
I can't get over them. Since the first time I've read North & South I'm absolutely in love with John and Margaret, and it's always a pleasure to meet them again.
A northern rain and a shared umbrella are the ocassion for a different meeting, an opportunity to open their lovely hearts and to really know each other... and to know their true feelings.
John and Margaret, forevermore.
A northern rain and a shared umbrella are the ocassion for a different meeting, an opportunity to open their lovely hearts and to really know each other... and to know their true feelings.
John and Margaret, forevermore.
November 29, 2020
3.5 rounded up - A good variation with John and Margaret dealing with a young woman with a fortune that could save John’s mill. The plot has some true villains, which is a departure from Gaskell, who dealt with more realistic struggles, but it was enjoyable. John and Margaret stay true to character, even in these circumstances and it was engaging.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews