A woman, her destiny, and a needle: A Single Thread by Tracy Chevalier

During WWI, a significant number of young men lost their lives or were left disabled, giving rise to the notion of a “Lost Generation” of men. At the same time, newspapers referred to the women these men would have married as the “Surplus Two Million”.

Set in 1930s England, A Single Thread by Tracy Chevalier follows Violet Speedwell, a “surplus woman” who lost her fiancé to the First World War and is determined to rebuild her life.

Leaving behind her overbearing mother, she moves to Winchester, where she discovers a group of women who embroider cushions and kneelers for the cathedral. Amid the stitches, Violet weaves her own path toward independence, but will she find the courage to defy societal expectations?

Something I really enjoyed about the book was the author’s talent for bringing the past to life. Chevalier has the ability to recreate the atmosphere of pre-WWII England with vivid, evocative descriptions that transport you straight into the heart of Winchester. You can almost hear the cathedral bells and feel the textures of the embroidery.

At its core, this is the story of a strong female protagonist who refuses to be confined by the conventions of her time. Violet’s quiet resilience and determination make her a deeply relatable and inspiring character.

With its quick pace and Chevalier’s signature style, A Single Thread is delightful. It’s a story about finding purpose and carving your own path in a world that tries to box you in.