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
Babu Banerjee, a lawyer, has children in Miss Pigot's school. He and Miss Pigot are friends. But he isn't a member of the Church of Scotland, so why would he send his children there? These thoughts run through William Hastie's head. He hears a rumor and he's predisposed to believe it because he doesn't like Miss Pigot or Babu Banerjee. A seed begins to sprout, a willingness to believe anything negative about either party. What sort of plant will this be?
Book Excerpt
Two Coins: A Biographical Novel (Women of Determination and Courage)
I hear a rumor about improper relations between Babu Banerjee and Miss Pigot. He spends a great deal of time at the Female Mission where he has a daughter and a niece enrolled. Surely, he could send them to the Free Church School. Why lurk about the Female Mission unless there’s some basis for the rumor?
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