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I’m happy to encourage the publication of North and South related novels, as I know there are fans of Gaskell’s story that are always eager for yet another dive into the world of Milton with John Thornton!
The latest story to become available to the public is by Caroline Malcolm-Boulton (otherwise known as The Scribbler CMB). I asked Caroline to share some of what to expect in her latest book, which was just released last week, so take a peek at this extremely unique story that combines Austen, Bronte, and Gaskell together.
Tell us about your book:
The Three Witches of Milton was actually inspired by one particular scene from the 2004 adaptation of North and South, and that was when John was reading his newspaper in his parlour, while his mother and sister began to criticise Margaret. For those who know the series, you’ll know how he can’t stand hearing her berated, so he quickly jumps to her defence. This scene formed an idea in my head, which turned into a short story, which then turned into a book.
The Three Witches of Milton, which derives its title from Shakespeare’s Macbeth, is a crossover of the world and words of Elizabeth Gaskell, Jane Austen and Charlotte Brontë. It is, I hope, a celebration of these three women and the concept of womanhood throughout time. To me, these three iconic authors wrote works that tried to make sense of the times they lived in and woven within their narratives, they were also writing a love letter to generations of women to come, reassuring them that being a woman at any time can be hard, but with a bravery that fosters an independent and self-appreciating spirit, women can prevail.
Furthermore, to my mind, while the words of these writers will forever remain iconic and inspirational, through experimentation, I want to see whether removing them from their original context and resettling them into new scenes and dialogue can give them a reinvigorated, reincarnated impact on readers.
And lastly, this book stands as a testament to the power of sisterhood. Regrettably, our world often witnesses women compelled to undermine and impede one another, driven either by self-interest or by their insecurities. It is truly disheartening that such a culture persists, considering the myriad challenges inherent in being a woman without adding unnecessary burdens onto each other. Thus, this book serves as a tribute to the virtues of kindness, empathy, respect, and acceptance among women, fostering a sphere where we can collectively strive to realise our fullest potential and lead lives of happiness and health.
This story has been great fun to write, I have loved spending time with these characters, the good and the bad, and trying to understand their mindsets and motivations. The experience has also helped me feel closer to the three female writers whom I admire beyond words, and so, it is my pleasure to be able to say that I am dedicating 100% of the lifetime royalties of this book to Elizabeth Gaskell’s House, Jane Austen’s House, and the Brontë Parsonage.
From the book’s blurb:
John Thornton just wants to settle down by the fire after a long week at Marlborough Mills. However, when he enters his drawing room, the master is horrified to find that far from being alone, he is beset by the company of three guileful antagonists, each one intent on trapping him with their feminine charms, claiming this eligible bachelor for their husband. Forced to ward off ’s North & South’s Ann Latimer, Pride & Prejudice’s Caroline Bingley, and Jane Eyre’s Blanche Ingram, John must use his wit and wiles to evade the flirtatious enchantments of these three figurative witches of Milton. But just as he thinks he has eluded their womanly spells, they begin to sharpen their claws and vilify a certain young lady whom John cherishes in his faithful heart, and that, our literary hero, will not stand for.
Thanks to Caroline for telling us about her imaginative creation. And what a wonderful idea it is to donate all proceeds from the sale of her book to the author houses! I’m sure Elizabeth Gaskell’s House will appreciate the donations.