The Dressmaker's Secret

The Dressmaker's Secret is a historical fiction by Kellyn Roth. It is the first book in the Chronicles of Alice and Ivy.

It was originally published on January 10, 2016, but was revised and re-released June 24, 2017. After significant revisions (including a significant twist near the end that is rumored to change everything) it was once more re-released on January 10, 2020.

Synopsis 1
After a revealing conversation with the first children of her age she's ever met, curious eight-year-old Alice Chattoway realizes that one ought to have a father ... and she doesn't. Having determined that his absence is making her mother unhappy, Alice resolves to find him and create a family for herself.

However, Alice's mother, Miss Chattoway, is reluctant to answer any questions posed about a man she'd much rather forget. While Alice investigates, Miss Chattoway tries to balance her own spiritual turmoil with her need to be both mother and provider to her daughters.

Will Alice ever unravel her mother's secrets? Can Miss Chattoway let go of the past to reach for the future?

If they knew who she was, they’d never accept what she’s become.
Claire will stop at nothing to provide for her daughters. An unwed mother, she does everything possible to raise them whilst avoiding her scandalous past. Some secrets are best kept, even between mother and daughter.

Alice longs for a father, especially if that means her mother will be happy. She takes matters into her own hands—but she never expected what she finds.

Despite her efforts to shelter her daughters, Claire’s ghosts rise up to haunt her, and any semblance of control over her life vanishes. If her secrets are uncovered, what will become of her family?