I've long heard about this British television series and finally ordered it for myself. What followed was one of the finest times I've spent watching the TV. This is a wonderful adaptation.
It tells the story of two people, John Thornton and Margaret Hale, who overcome prejudices and learn the world is more than they thought.
John Thornton is a mill owner from the northern town of Milton. Margaret Hale is a parsons daughter from the southern town of Helston. When Margaret and her family first move to Milton, she is horrified by what she sees. She is appalled by the rough ways of John Thornton. But over time, she comes to see he is an honourable man who truly cares about the people he has working for him.
John Thornton is a man who has risen out of the ashes of what his father did to the family and is a man of integrity and honour. He is immediately drawn to Margaret though he feels he is not worthy of her affections.
The casting in this series is brilliant; the barely contained passion portrayed by the oh so handsome Richard Armitage and the ethereal innocent beauty of Margaret played by Daniela Denby-Ashe. Sinead Cusak as John's very protective mother and Brendan Coyle as the honourable union leader Higgins - each brings a richness to this production.
Also of note is the fascinating clashes between rich and poor; between the mill owners and the people who work for them.
The scenery itself, from the hauntingly beautiful but deadly mill, to the idyllic countryside of Helston becomes an important backdrop to this romantic tale of two people who fall in love.
I can not recommend this series highly enough and I've already watched it numerous times myself. Each time has been a treat and I've grown to love it even more with each viewing of this incredibly romantic tale.
