Book Review: From Field to Furnace: The Story of One Family’s Journey into the Industrial Revolution by Marilyn Freeman

From Field to Furnace:
The Story of One Family’s Journey into the Industrial Revolution
By Marilyn Freeman

Publication Date: 1st February 2024

Publisher: Spellbrooktales

Page Length: 560

Genre: Historical Fiction

In the heart of 18th-century Shropshire, a profound metamorphosis sweeps through the lives of the Bangham family, capturing the essence of an era marked by radical change. "From Field to Furnace" is a compelling historical novel that delves into the lives of ordinary people navigating the tumultuous waters of the Industrial Revolution, a pivotal period that reshaped society and human existence.

As the world witnessed the advent of technological marvels, like the revolutionary use of coal in iron production, the Bangham family becomes the embodiment of an epoch in transition. The story unfurls against the backdrop of an agrarian society on the cusp of transformation into an industrial powerhouse, exploring the intricate shifts in work, family dynamics, and societal norms.

This novel immerses readers in the lives of the Bangham family, offering a personal lens through which to witness the grand tapestry of history. We follow their journey from the tranquil enclaves of Bangham’s Wood to the bustling industrial settlements of the Severn Gorge, where the relentless demands of the Darby ironworks reshape their existence. The central question of whether Joseph Bangham and his kin foresaw the profound impact they would have on the world through their toil at the furnace underscores the magnitude of the Industrial Revolution. It prompts reflection on the consequences of technological advancement and the enduring uncertainty it brings.

The Bangham family had long established themselves as dedicated farm labourers, toiling under the sun while also engaging in the traditional craft of burning wood to create charcoal. However, with the rapid expansion of the nearby ironworks, new opportunities have begun to unfold before them. This growth, while promising, brings along significant changes that will irrevocably reshape the Bangham family’s legacy, setting them on a path they never anticipated.

In “From Field to Furnace: The Story of One Family’s Journey into the Industrial Revolution,” author Marilyn Freeman provides a detailed exploration of the diverse experiences and challenges faced by the Bangham family during the transformative years of the Industrial Revolution.

The tranquillity of Bangham’s Wood, named after the original settlers, stands in stark contrast to the constant noise and coal smoke in Dale Coppice. As the iron industry expanded, demand for workers increased, and many men were willing to endure protracted and strenuous shifts for better pay than they could earn in the fields. Consequently, the area surrounding the ironworks began to develop and adapt. More people moved from neighbouring towns to be closer to the Works, making their daily commutes easier. Meanwhile, Bangham’s Wood, once home to many members of the Bangham family, witnessed its inhabitants leaving for opportunities—specifically at the ironworks—further afield.

The intricacies of following an entire family mean that this novel focuses on multiple characters, all of whom are closely related to one another. Some characters stand out above the rest, particularly as they grow from children into adulthood. Each sibling develops their own ideas, and as they do, they begin to drift apart, forging their own destinies. Joe is the first of the siblings to radically change his way of life. He has spent his entire life following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, with no other options considered. The fields need to be worked, and there is the possibility of earning extra money on the side by doing charcoal burning, carefully monitoring the flames to ensure the product comes out as intended. However, with the arrival of Darby Works, the need for charcoal is rapidly declining. Mr Darby was proudly showing the world that charcoal was not a necessity for making iron, and as coal production increased, charcoal started to become redundant. As charcoal begins to lose its relevance, Joe knows he cannot be left behind. The Works are always hiring new workers, and despite the reluctance and disapproval his family may express about him deviating from their traditional ways, Joe is determined to make something of himself. Joe is not an extraordinary character; rather, he is an ordinary man finding his way forward in life as he matures and considers the future he wants to build. Joe is a relatable and likeable character, known for his kindness and deep commitment to his family, despite the long and arduous hours he works.

This novel, much like the Bangham family itself, experiences its fair share of ups and downs. With a large cast of characters, the chances for conflict and turmoil are significantly heightened. Set against the backdrop of a turbulent historical period characterised by rapidly expanding iron production, the residents of small, often overlooked villages struggle with their longstanding hardships. Illnesses ravage the population, and accidents result in injuries that may never fully heal. Funerals occur as frequently as weddings, if not more so, and loss becomes an integral theme in the story, eliciting tears as beloved characters succumb to illnesses or, for the fortunate ones, to old age. The novel carefully portrays the struggles of the lower class, highlighting the looming threat of the poorhouse as families navigate a time of great distress and upheaval.

Spanning several generations and developing every character along the way, this novel encapsulates the lives of an entire extended family. Readers can observe the family’s growth, from an initial set of siblings to an intricate web of relationships. There are many joys to experience, such as first loves turning into marriages and children completing the family cycle. However, the narrative also delves into deep losses and dangerous situations that will chill you to your bones. Joe’s sister, Abigail, introduces an antagonist who believes himself to be above the chaos he creates. James Furlong fathered Abigail’s baby not by her choice, yet he deludes himself into thinking he has done nothing wrong. Furlong is a character who can turn your stomach, as his treatment of the women around him is truly vile. He is a blight on the family, a constant threat lurking in the shadows, waiting for an opportunity to cause upheaval and bring devastation to those who would label him a monster. Although Abigail raises her child with love and devotion, the truth behind his conception puts the reader on edge. Furlong is not to be trusted, and even as generations grow and new life replaces the old, he seems to be never too far from the Banghams.

Although the initial generation controls the narrative for most of this novel, the baton eventually passes to their children as they grow up and face the same crossroads that Joe encountered when he first joined the Darby Works. Parents age, and children mature, forming their own opinions and ideals. The advice of parents becomes irrelevant, and as the extensive network of cousins begins to carve out their own paths, the Bangham family finds itself more spread out than ever before. In particular, Walter takes over the narrative, as his choices lead him down an irreversible path, with the harsh judgment of the court determining his future. With so many siblings and cousins, their early decisions shape the course of their lives forever, leading the Bangham family to have a member in every walk of life. Some have risen from the ashes of poverty. Others have found themselves falling back into hardship. Regardless of their circumstances, the family unites. They celebrate the successful and support those who have stumbled. The Bangham family is intricately connected, creating a story of hope, inspiration, and deep-rooted family loyalty.

The cast of this novel is extensive, and while each character is skilfully crafted and thoughtfully placed in the vibrant world of the story, it can be challenging to keep track of them all. Family names are passed down from mother to daughter and father to son, and with many characters sharing the same first names, the complexities of the family relationships can become confusing. However, once you fully immerse yourself in the novel, the narrative begins to captivate you, making it easier to follow the various threads that are intricately woven together in this complex tapestry of family dynamics.

“From Field to Furnace: The Story of One Family’s Journey into the Industrial Revolution” by Marilyn Freeman is a meticulously crafted novel that explores the evolution of a family amidst the upheaval of the Industrial Revolution. With a rich array of characters that readers will come to love, the novel offers deep insights into various aspects of life while maintaining an engaging narrative. It captivates readers’ attention from beginning to end, successfully weaving an epic saga that follows the family’s growth and adaptation alongside the revolutionary changes occurring in the world around them.

Review by Ellie Yarde
Yarde Book Reviews & Book Promotion

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The Story of One Family’s Journey into the Industrial Revolution

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Marilyn Freeman

Born in the industrial town of Oldham, England in 1946, Marilyn initially forged her path as an Industrial Chemist, delving into the intricacies of science. However, her story took a captivating turn when she partnered with her husband in a successful venture manufacturing high end toiletries.

After a fulfilling career in business, Marilyn found a new calling upon retirement. Driven by a deep-seated empathy, she transitioned into the realm of counselling, becoming a person-centred counsellor. Her compassionate nature led her to volunteer in bereavement counselling, offering solace and support to those navigating the difficult journey of loss.

In the later chapters of her life, Marilyn discovered a passion for storytelling. Four years ago, she embarked on a writing career that has seen the publication of four novels. Three of these novels belong to the captivating genre of family mystery and suspense, highlighting Marilyn's skill in crafting tales that grip the reader's imagination.

The latest addition to Marilyn's literary repertoire is a historical novel, a departure from the mysteries that defined her earlier works. This novel, rich in detail and steeped in the tapestry of history, draws inspiration from Marilyn's own ancestors. She weaves a narrative that explores the profound impact of seemingly inconsequential decisions, echoing through the corridors of time with sometimes tragic consequences.

Marilyn's fascination lies in the intricate dance of characters within her stories. She delves into the complexities of human relationships, unearthing the profound repercussions of choices that resonate through generations. In her writing, she skilfully navigates the twists and turns of familial ties, unravelling the mysteries of the human heart.

As Marilyn Freeman continues to add chapters to her life's story, her passion for storytelling remains undiminished. Through her novels, she invites readers to join her on a journey through time and emotion, where the threads of family, mystery, and suspense are expertly woven into a tapestry that captivates the imagination.

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