Reviews from

More Grist to the Mill

Viewing comments for Chapter 26 "Blueprint for the Future - 1933"
Book 2 of the Cleeborough Mill Trilogy

26 total reviews 
Comment from nomi338
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

Label me a sentimental fool. I somehow cannot help thinking how much I would have love these two children to have been Tom Warburton's children. I am very impressed with the wisdom and talent of these two. Given the modest history of Tommy Bache, it is a surprise that his children would be so talented. I suspect that I am just a bit prejudiced where he is concerned. I apologize for that. I recognize that it is wrong.

 Comment Written 21-Mar-2021


reply by the author on 22-Mar-2021
    Without Tom Warburton's setbacks there would have been no story. But I know what you mean and TW was a most deserving chacter, but this is not the Swiss Family Robinson where everything they need is luckily washed ashore for them. This is life, where the tide turns when the desired flotsam is just out of reach, so it is washed away forever.

    And that is why you give me six stars, for which I am, of course, very grateful indeed.
reply by nomi338 on 22-Mar-2021
    That Tommy Bache could produce such talented children gives me hope for my own progeny.
Comment from Dolly'sPoems
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

I feel a sense of change in the air as households no longer had domestic staff like they used to and time are a changing. The young daughter sounds like she has a keen interest in farming and women are beginning to choose their career path, whereas at one time marriage was their only option. There is a sense of nostalgia here, a sadness about what has passed and an excitement for the future, much enjoyed, love Dolly x

 Comment Written 21-Mar-2021


reply by the author on 22-Mar-2021
    Yes indeed. WW1 changed everything and later on WW2 completed the job. The pace moved up a gear and the whole pattern of paid work changed. Domestic service was perhaps the last thing to be affected by the Industrial Revolution and its gadgets.

    Thank you for pointing out that I ave caught the feel of the age. That makes me happy, along with the six stars, of course.
Comment from damommy
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

I, too, am amazed at Julia's knowledge and understanding of a working farm. It will surely be a success in her hands. Strange there's no sign of Jack in the room. He is the retiring one, keeping to himself. I'm eager to see what direction he takes.

 Comment Written 21-Mar-2021


reply by the author on 21-Mar-2021
    That will be revealed very soon when they find his 'stuff'. Many thanks for this six-star review. Julia looks like she might make a good farmer. No reason yet why she shouldn't.
Comment from Iza Deleanu
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Wow, pretty impressive for a girl to have the head of an engineer that plans the crops and livestock as a pro. Thank you for sharing and good luck with the next chapter.

 Comment Written 21-Mar-2021


reply by the author on 21-Mar-2021
    If you think back over my work I have some fairly influential female characters. Bernard Shaw used to do that too. Many thanks for this review.
Comment from Sandra Stoner-Mitchell
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Where indeed? I know she isn't related, but she has the same interest in the farm as Hettie had in the mill. Why do they think young girls aren't up to the challenge of running a farm? I'm really pleased that Julia is so interested, especially as Jack is into machinery. As is right. I think he'll come into his own when WW2 comes about. The planes etc will be needing mechanics. This is a really excellent chapter, Jim. Well done. :)) Sandra xx

I've somehow run out of all my sixes without realising it! And it's only Sunday. I need a few more. I'm sorry, this really is a six rated chapter. xxxx

This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.

 Comment Written 21-Mar-2021


reply by the author on 21-Mar-2021
    Thank you so much for the virtual six. Yes Julia will be the next of my 'powerful' women but she has an important flaw in her character which will have far-reaching effects.
reply by Sandra Stoner-Mitchell on 21-Mar-2021
    FLAW! She's a lady, we don't have FLAWS!! Lol. hmm, I wonder what you've dreamt up for her?
reply by the author on 21-Mar-2021
    You may not be flawed but I'm afraid she is. Lol
Comment from barbara.wilkey
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

I'm wondering where Jack's stuff is too. I am happy Julia has found herself, but what about Jack? I like the story. I can't wait for more.

Heather sat down opposite her husband, placing her own cup of tea before her. (down in an extra word and not needed. I understand these people speak as they would during the time period but the narrative needs to be correct.)

This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.

 Comment Written 21-Mar-2021


reply by the author on 21-Mar-2021
    Thank you for this review. I think this may be a difference between UK and US English. We sit down where it seems you simply sit, and it is not regarded as incorrect this side of the pond. By contrast we tend to tell our kids not to slouch but sit up straight! It is a crazy world.
reply by barbara.wilkey on 21-Mar-2021
    It sure is. I've had editors tell me to not use unnecessary words. That's where I'm coming from. I know in dialogue I say sit down, but in narrative I don't. I have to edit them out myself, because it's natural to say it.