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Wendy Parkins

Writer of fiction and non-fiction

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New Release

An Idle Woman

1838, England: When Frances Dickinson impulsively marries Lieutenant John Geils, her hopes for her future are quickly shattered. 

A cruel and violent man, John keeps Frances in isolation, while spending her fortune and preying upon their maids.

Only when John's abuse escalates can Frances set in motion a daring plan to secure her freedom.

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A story of gaslighting, control and one woman's fight, An Idle Woman is the true story behind one of the most sensational divorce trials of the nineteenth century.

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"It's an outstanding novel, an extraordinary achievement."

- Liam McIlvanney

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"Wendy Parkins has written a remarkable narrative which exposes the engrossing and heartbreaking world of Frances Dickinson, a gently bred woman whose dreams of a loving husband and home are dashed not only by infidelity, but also cruelty and horrific abuse. Parkins’ research into the nineteenth-century court records, press articles, and personal correspondence surrounding this true story shows the depth of her perseverance and commitment to bring forth such a moving work of art. Her exceptional writing and precise attention to detail make this an engaging and informative read one should not miss."

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Leah Moyes, Author of the bestselling historical novel, A Polish Nurse

"An Idle Woman is a riveting read, which brilliantly captures a range of historical voices, making them convincing in tone, and giving life to figures whose stories were hitherto only known through local gossip and legal documents."

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Grace Moore,

Author of Dickens and Empire

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