At this week’s Books and Bakes session, the group delved into The Dressmaker by Rosalie Ham—a novel rich in character, dark humour, and unexpected twists.
Set in a small Australian town in the 1950s, the story follows Tilly Dunnage, a talented dressmaker who returns to her childhood home after many years away—having been banished as a child following false accusations of murder. As she reconnects with the people she once knew, long-buried secrets begin to surface, and the truth about her past slowly unfolds.
The group was immediately drawn into the vivid setting and the strong personalities that populate the town. The characters sparked lively discussion, with many reflecting on how small communities can hold deep histories—both positive and painful—and how relationships can evolve over time.
One of the key themes explored during the session was the idea of judgement and reputation. The story prompted thoughtful conversation about how people are perceived, how rumours can shape lives, and how difficult it can be to challenge long-held assumptions.
The role of creativity also stood out. Tilly’s dressmaking became a powerful symbol within the story—transforming not just appearances, but confidence and identity. This led to reflections on the ways in which creativity, whether through sewing, art, music, or other activities, can offer a sense of purpose and self-expression.
The conversation didn’t shy away from the book’s harder edges. There was a mix of reactions to the darker elements of the story—some found the themes thought-provoking and engaging, while others reflected on the emotional weight of certain moments. This variety of perspectives added depth to the conversation, allowing everyone to share their own interpretations and responses.
Books and Bakes once again provided a space where stories could be explored openly and respectfully. The Dressmaker proved to be a powerful talking point—encouraging reflection, conversation, and a deeper look at how past experiences can shape the present.
It was a session filled with honesty, insight, and a shared appreciation for storytelling that challenges, surprises, and connects people.
3 Comments
Joyce Beadnall · June 8, 2026 at 6:47 pm
I was looking forward to reading The Dressmaker, because it seemed such an unusual title – and I’ve sewn many garments and items over the years.
The early pages caught my interest – because the author used language very cleverly and colourfully to describe the scene or situation.
Despite this stimulating start, I started to feel confused by the many new characters we were introduced to.
As the story unfolded we learned about unpleasant events in the past , bitterness, revenge, and the effects of such feelings on past and present actions of the villagers.
I didn’t enjoy getting to know them all, and found myself just wanting to get the book finished . There were likeable, ‘normal’ characters but overall I didn’t enjoy finding out what some of them were capable of. In addition , there were a few instances when quite unpleasant , even crude actions were featured . For me, they didn’t add to the story at all. They spoilt it.
I thoroughly enjoyed our discussion today, partly because others’ positive observations reminded me of several more commendable , likeable actions and traits.
Unfortunately I don’t feel inspired to read another Rosalie Ham novel, at the moment . I’d like to see the film though.
Kathryn Hoey · June 9, 2026 at 4:02 pm
Set in the 1950’s The Dressmaker is the story of Tilly Dunnage’s return to Dungatar, the small Australian town she grew up in, to visit her ill mother. Banished as a child, due to a tragic accident, Tilly is now a talented dressmaker from Paris. Another reason for her return, was to give the residents a chance to be kind, open minded and outward looking.
As she uses her dressmaking talents to transform the women of the town, grudging alliances form. However, when a tragedy occurs, the town’s envy and resentments quickly return, fuelling Tilly’s plans for revenge.
There were some many characters in the book – about 40 – who were pretty much all so unlikeable, made it hard to distinguish between them. I ended up making a list of the names with a brief description of each character. I found myself referring to this on almost every page, as I worked my way through the story.
Once I had read about a third of the story I found that I was enjoying the twists and turns of the plot and some of the dark humour.
To summarise, The Dressmaker is a story of frocks, much mischief and a revenge that finishes with an unforgettable, but really quite shocking, turn of events!
Lynne Amos · June 9, 2026 at 6:15 pm
The Dressmaker – so many characters introduced at the beginning I had to write them all down along with their occupations/standing in the small town of Dungatar, Australia in the 1950’s.
At times I found this quite amusing ( the cross dressing police sergeant) and at others quite maddening with the way the town’s residents treat Tilly both in the past and present day.
I found it really sad when Tilly’s love interest died in a freak accident just when they were making plans for a future together.
Sergeant Farrat became Tilly’s friend and protector, even more so when her mother died. At one point I thought Tilly might return to Melbourne ( where she had been offered a job by a mystery tourist with the Sergeant in tow as her assistant.
Molly’s ( Tilly’s mother) death was rather sudden and tragic but I was glad that they’d both had the chance to have a proper conversation about Tilly’s life after the unfortunate incident where her half brother died. We also find the Tilly had a son who had died also. Poor woman, tragedy seemed to follow her everywhere.
I did think that Tilly’s revenge which affected the whole town was a bit over the top, even though she had been treated so badly. I was a bit disappointed with the ending, I felt there was too much unfinished business.
There is a film of the book out now and I can totally see it being played out in this format. I will probably look out for it.
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