Dance A Fearful Jig

What would you sacrifice for love?

Peterborough 1807

Rachel Alderman is a lonely, middle-aged housekeeper to a local vicar. Blighted by crippling shyness, illness and the needs of others, her life is going nowhere. That is, until a chance encounter with a mysterious stranger determines otherwise.

Charles Le Boucher is a French soldier captured in the ongoing Napoleonic war, currently residing in the nearby POW camp, Norman Cross. Whilst out on parole, attempting to sell his delicately carved model ships in the marketplace, he meets and befriends Rachel.

With their two countries on opposing sides in a bitter war, should they even be talking to one another? Despite family disapproval, can their innocent friendship blossom into love, and if it does, what will become of them?

Published by Lupin Publications, January 2024

ADVANCE REVIEW OF DANCE A FEARFUL JIG:

"Alison’s book is a gripping tale told with such familiarity you feel you could be Rachel. The story is fascinating and opens a door to real history through the emotions, building to a crescendo.

Holding my attention despite reading late at night. The story is subtle, not over romanticised. The divide between rich and poor ever present mirroring the futility of  war. Them and us is a strong thread until the end. I love historical novels. This has surprises and creates real intrigue with the various threads coming together dramatically.

Thank you it is excellent Alison."

Kate Harris November 2023