Annie of Ainsworth’s Mill is set in County Down and Cleator Moor before World War I. Annie Maguire leaves her native County Down to work in a flax mill in Cleator Moor. But the sectarian fault lines of Ulster are perpetuated in ‘Little Ireland,’ and the man she loves is on the opposite side. 

‘Katie Hutton’s novel is a masterclass of descriptive writing about a period, a people and a place. Farms, towns, factories, houses and homes can be accurately viewed through the eyes of Annie and Robert. Accents and characterisations are superbly on point, with the people we meet in the novel feeling totally authentic and believable. A great novel by a great author.’ – Aidan Morrissey, Historical Novel Society

Five star reviews:

‘Katie Hutton nails it again! Leading us gently by the hand, the author takes the reader through some of the religious and political divides and tensions of an immigrant Irish population in Northern England, in late 19th/early 20th centuries. Told through the eyes of Catholic Annie and Protestant Robert as both struggle with loneliness and a need to work – while dancing a delicate line between religious divide and acceptance within their households – this love story is never straight forward… a wonderful read for anyone who enjoys a well written historical romance.’

‘The depth of the author’s characters is astounding, as is the obvious in-depth research. Highly recommended.’

‘The couple’s tender relationship unfolds against bitter sectarian hatred within the two communities. On one level this is a highly enjoyable and fast-paced tale of the couple’s evolving romance, plagued with setbacks and dramas — but on another it is also the story of a troubled community beset by bigotry. As a piece of social history this was an extremely satisfying read which explained the different religious perspectives and argued fairly from both sides. Beautifully written and researched, with memorable and well-rounded characters, this was a charming story, shedding new light on troubled times, with a highly satisfying ending.’

‘I knew a little of the background of the Catholic and Protestant situation from living in N. Ireland, so was really intrigued to read this saga. Set at the turn of the last century, in Co. Down and England, it captured the simmering tensions incredibly well. It was incredibly well researched and beautifully written and Katie Hutton has drawn such sympathetic characters that it was hard to put the book down. The central love story between Annie Maguire and Robert genuinely pulls on the heartstrings and I was rooting for them all the way.’