Kirkus Reviews named Two Coins as a Best Indie, 2019. CIBA Semi-Finalist 2019 Fiction Book Awards
In late 19th century British Calcutta, Mary Pigot became Lady Superintendent of the Scottish Female Mission with a commitment to the students and staff under her supervision. Sometimes she overstepped her place within the Scottish Mission. Occasionally she lost her temper. Gossip said Mary spent too much time with a married male missionary. Rumors said she privately entertained an Indian barrister. Nevertheless, Mary’s position remained secure until Reverend William Hastie became head of the Scottish Mission in 1879.
Hastie disliked Mary’s independent stance. He listened to rumors and gossip. In 1882, Mary Pigot lost her position. But instead of accepting her fate, Mary Pigot asserted her legal rights and sued William Hastie for libel.
Based on trial transcripts and newspaper reports, Two Coins is a nineteenth century legal saga stretching from the judicial courts of nineteenth century British Calcutta to the church courts of Edinburgh, Scotland. Who will prevail in this public struggle for respect and honor?
Sandra writes historical fiction. Her latest book, "Ambition, Arrogance & Pride" focuses on 18th century Salem MA. Sandra also blogs about history, travel, and other topics that catch her attention. For more information about Sandra, visit her website https://www.sandrawagnerwright.com
James Wilson visits the sick room. He says it's to see how Mr. Hastie is. Miss Pigot is glad to see him. Sit down, she says. They sit with their heads together and recite a prayer while the nurse looks on. Do they know how that looks? A married man and a single woman with their heads together? Suddenly, Mr. Wilson realizes the situation and rushes out of the room. Clearly, Miss Pigot doesn't understand social conventions, but he knows better. Outside, he berates himself. But it's too late. The nurse knows what she thinks she saw.
Book Excerpt
Two Coins: A Biographical Novel (Women of Determination and Courage)
Miss Pigot is so artless. She has no comprehension of how someone like Nurse Briggs views a married man and an unmarried woman in close proximity, even if Miss Pigot is in her forties. But I know how quickly tongues can wag. I should never have gone to the sickroom, let alone accepted Miss Pigot’s invitation to sit beside her. I can hear my wife Katy admonishing me. “Ye be a foolish man,” she would say. “Have a care what you’re about.”
Comment on this Bubble
Your comment and a link to this bubble will also appear in your Facebook feed.