Think Downton Abbey, set in the heart of Boston Irish domestic worker Norah King’s decision to ask her wealthy employer, Caroline Parker, for an elegant red coat that the Beacon Hill matriarch has marked for donation ignites a series of events that neither woman could have fathomed. The unlikely exchange will impact their respective daughters and families for generations to come, from the coat’s … come, from the coat’s original owner, marriage-minded collegian Cordelia Parker, to the determined and spirited King sisters of South Boston, Rosemary, Kay, and Rita. As all of these young women experience the realities of life – love and loss, conflict and joy, class prejudices and unexpected prospects – the red coat reveals the distinction between cultures, generations, and landscapes in Boston during the 1940s and 50s, a time of change, challenge, and opportunity.
Meet the proud, working-class Irish and staid, upper-class Brahmins through the contrasting lives of these two families and their friends and neighbors. See how the Parkers and the Kings each overcome sudden tragedy with resolve and triumph. And witness the profound impact of a mother’s heart on her children’s souls. Carlson brings us front and center with her knowing weave of Celtic passion – both tragic and joyful – words of wisdom, romance, humor, and historical events. Dive into Boston feet first! The Red Coat is a rich novel that chronicles the legacy of Boston from both sides of the city, Southie and the Hill.
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It follows the life of 3 Irish American sisters through their life as children of poor, hard working Irish immigrants. Beautifully written with lots of Irish lore and love. Anyone with Irish heritage will surely enjoy this and they will probably see a little of their family somewhere in there.
It started out complicated, but got simpler. Lots of back stories for minor characters.
I enjoyed the fact that an elegant garment can play an important role in a family’s life.
Great book
Great great read!
Although I didn’t grow up in Boston, this book mirrored many of the things I remember from my growing up.
Such a wonderful story of a woman’s tenacity despite hardship, her faith and love for God and example to her children. Couldn’t put it down!
I loved this book! Will not forget the characters and their courage!
I liked this book. It was an easy read and kept my interest. Author did a good job with the title and story line. and, bits of related history and pop up facts snout the coat in different situations.
Excellent portrayal of ethnic groups who make up this country.
Truly an enjoyable book. Hard to put it down.
Great story – Family photos made it a little confusing – I thought the book was fiction but apparently it was historical fiction?
Reminds you how important family connections are; how important a Mother’s love is and how it influences the future of her family. This is a story that shows the strength of the women of this family. This shows how living standards are set, that being poor does not allow a person to behave without good manners, cleanliness, or charity toward others.
You get a good look at life at this time and place. Seemed very real. Good characters.
So realistic you’ll start searching the net for the characters.
I learned so much about the Irish in Boston during the time period of the book. Great insight into that particular culture. Very entertaining read.
VERY GOOD READ ABOUT THE IRISH IN BOSTON
Interesting how the cost got around.
Great characters and insight into the lives of Boston residents of different social status.
I enjoyed the entire book and didn’t want to put it down. Highly recommended.