The Gown

Set against the backdrop of postwar Britain, this enthralling historical novel delves into the creation of one of the most iconic wedding dresses of the twentieth century—Queen Elizabeth’s gown—and the remarkable women behind it. In 1947 London, amidst the harshest winter and the struggles of rationing, embroiderers Ann Hughes and Miriam Dassin form an unlikely friendship while working at the prestigious Mayfair fashion house of Norman Hartnell. Their hopes for a brighter future are ignited when they are selected to help create Princess Elizabeth’s wedding gown. Fast forward to 2016 in Toronto, where Heather Mackenzie is determined to uncover the mystery of a set of embroidered flowers inherited from her late grandmother. As she investigates, she discovers a connection between her grandmother, who rarely spoke of her past in Britain, and the renowned textile artist and Holocaust survivor, Miriam Dassin. Through alternating perspectives, the narrative weaves together the lives of three unforgettable heroines, exploring themes of survival, friendship, and love against the backdrop of a society grappling with the aftermath of war. The story beautifully balances behind-the-scenes details of the gown's creation with the personal journeys of its characters, offering a poignant reflection on resilience and hope.