I read this story some time ago. It is set in Wales during the 1830s and early 1840s amidst an iron making community. We see the story through the eyes of young Iestyn Mortymer. It is set during the birth of trade union movements that are forming to represent those up against cruel and unsympathetic masters of industry. In this case, the iron works industry. Our characters struggle to overcome gross exploitation by the class divided society of early Victorian Wales and is very well presented as we follow a family with other aspect of life's trials and tribulations. We see Iestyn's entire family as they live through the harsh times with anger and frustration building up over many years. Eventually coming to a furious climax with British red coat militia. There is a lot of true historical groups like Scotch Cattle, Chartism and Rebbecca rioters etc. These groups were very real indeed and the fictitious Mortymer family are among the new growing social ideologies of these desperate times. A very enjoyable read and would recommend this story highly.
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