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The Black Velvet Gown
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In 1830s County Durham, widowed Riah Millican must support her children after the death of the husband who taught the family to read and write. The education intended to improve their lives is regarded with suspicion by employers, but it helps Riah secure work in Moor House with a scholarly recluse devoted to books.
The intellectual freedom of the house has its greatest effect on Riah’s clever and strong-willed daughter Biddy. Opportunities that should open doors instead provoke class prejudice and conflict between mother and daughter, requiring both women to challenge the limits placed on education, work and female independence.
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