Stricken by diphtheria, she is sent to the Hampshire countryside where she discovers a robust fighting spirit and the first stirrings of attraction...But then must she follow her mother into the city’s grim corset-making trade. Lu realizes that things must change. And she can make it happen.  Her journey from shy child to energetic woman encompasses love, deep friendship, and a growing political awareness. Above all, Lu is a survivor – and one to be reckoned with.The Girl Now Leaving is a powerful and unputdownable saga perfect for fans of Diney Costeloe, Nadine Dorries and Mary Gibson.

    At eleven years-old, she has survived sickness, near starvation and harsh beatings.Master Simpkins and his cruel daughter rule the workhouse with a rod of iron, but when Romany boy, Joe, arrives at the workhouse, his spirit and courage give Eliza hope that another life is waiting for her outside.When she is sold into service, Eliza is relieved to be out of the workhouse and hopes her fortunes are changing for the better, but cruelty and unkindness are everywhere and her salvation could become her ruin…

    

    Her parents have died, her food is dwindling and the rent is due. When a stranger arrives bearing a note from an uncle, inviting Katka to join him and his wife in America, she leaves all that she has held dear to rebuild her life across the ocean. On the voyage to New York, she becomes friends with the stranger and begins to fall in love. But at Ellis Island, they are separated when he is detained by authorities as a suspected anarchist. Alone, Katka continues her journey to her uncle’s house on the rough and tumble Iron Range in northern Minnesota. Soon she is immersed in a lively community of iron miners and begins publishing an underground newspaper about their struggles and the heroism of the women on the Iron Range, as they are swept into a tumultuous strike that will change their lives forever. “Under Ground” is a work of fiction inspired by true events.

    This study guide includes the following sections: Plot Summary, Chapter Summaries & Analysis, Characters, Objects/Places, Themes, Style, Quotes, and Topics for Discussion.

    This is one of those rare stay-up-all-night-to read novels that you cannot put down. Deborah's courage and resolve will live on with you after you turn the last page." Glenna Salsbury, CSP, CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame. "A stunning historical fantasy-an epic journey that no reader could guess. It's nothing like anything I have read. Realistically told and captured the time period perfectly-can be read by teens and adults." Urban Lit Magazine "Deborah Rising powerfully depicts the political, religious, and cultural landscapes of the Jewish people. The themes are as relevant today as they were many years ago -- sexism, misuse of power, effective leadership, and political repression. Azrieli has a powerful gift for plot and character and for making history come alive. A masterpiece!" Manhattan Book Review "Vivid descriptions, intriguing twists-not just drama, but an in-the-moment, you-are-there flair. Anyone who wants a superior, heart-pounding and inspirational read will find Deborah Rising not just a solid representation, but a thoroughly compelling saga that's hard to put down and ends neatly (but open-ended, holding out the hope of more stories). Readers are in for a real treat!" Midwest Book Review. "A perfect read. Riveting!" The US Review of Books "The story of this young woman has moved me emotionally, spiritually, and has inspired me. Highly Intriguing." Hollywood Book Reviews "Azrieli manages to vividly recreate biblical history, myths, fanaticism and sexism-he never condescends in sentimentalizing Deborah, who for all the tragedies she has endured, continues to survive while never losing faith. A seductive saga-peopled with a fascinating array of characters." Bookpleasures "This enthralling story gives the reader an amazing insight into what life was really like for women at a fascinating time in history. I found this book absolutely absorbing and highly recommend it." The English Informer "Azrieli sets down a captivating fictionalized life story for this incredible woman. Believable and engrossing-chronicling the life of one of the Bible's and history's greatest women." Pacific Book Review "Rich description and engaging dialogue bring the story of Deborah to life. Though she lived long ago, her struggles will no doubt resonate with today's readers. The book is a page-turner, there are no lulls. Full of suspenseful adventure!"  Oak Tree Reviews "Deborah is strong, and her story is a compelling one. Azrieli does a masterful job at building up a tale that feels true to history. Realistic and vivid!" San Francisco Book Review.

    But when she and her friend, Peter, find a valuable coin and try to take it out of the shop, they find themselves in the fifteenth century. But that is only the beginning. The Edward V Coin The discovery of the coin from the short lived reign of Edward V, prompts Peter to want to find out what really happened to the princes in the Tower. The Anne Boleyn Necklace When Peter finds the famous B necklace worn by Anne Boleyn in many portraits, he is eager to use it to go back and see her in the flesh. But Rachel has sworn she'll never time travel again, until she finds a journal which reveals a cousin, stranded in the fifteenth century. She feels she must rescue her, but she doesn't stop to wonder if the cousin wants to be rescued. The Ripper Rings Jack the Ripper took souvenirs in the form of organs from his victims. But from one victim he took three rings and when they turn up in the antique shop, both Peter and Rachel are keen to find out how they got there.

    Their main goal is survival, but will they survive? It is a question that, in the end, a reader must ask themselves.