Footsteps in the Past - The Secret

Following on from 'Footsteps in the Past' 'The Secret' takes the main characters, Jane and John 39 years on from the Pottery Riots of 1842. There is a coal mining disaster at Lillydale Colliery, Bucknall, Staffordshire, in which their son is involved. While nursing John back to health, after his attempt to rescue their son, Jane reminisces what has happened over the past 39 years. Her stories unravel while desperately awaiting news if their son is still alive or not.

The stories include the coming of the railway and her work at the appalling workhouse hospital - leading on to the introduction of trained nurses. Through paranormal experiences, Jane's secret is eventually enlightened to John - something he would not believe at first, and which had led to years of separation. The book concentrates on the small area surrounding Werrington, Staffordshire - a microcosm of life at the time - and bringing in characters, who actually existed. The historical events are accurate.