Letters from the Past

An English Family in the 19th & 20th century

A Shropshire village is Ann Handley’s home in 1851. Her father has destined her to be a farmer’s wife, and says she doesn’t need to read and write. 

Feeling constrained at home, she longs to escape. But just as Ann begins to make her way out into the world, a shocking encounter brings misfortune and conflict to her door. She’s forced to leave the village and find work elsewhere; a pattern which future generations will follow. 

Letters from the Past is the story of four generations of an ordinary English family.

Reviews

NEWS – Family Tree Magazine has published a review in their August 2023 edition:

I actually cried while reading this novel – it touched on that universal loss that we all have in our families.

I actually cried while reading this novel – it touched on that universal loss that we all have in our families.

Trevor Newton, Writer

Michael Pantlin has truly honoured his ancestors in this multi-generational saga. Each chapter seamlessly unfolds from one generation to the next.

Brenda Litolff Barber

Though not related to this family, I devoured this book.

Elizabeth DuBois, JD, Author, The Louisa Saga