The Upstart

A Tale of Ambition, Pride, and Forbidden Love

The Upstart by Catherine Cookson, published in 1997 by Corgi, is a richly woven historical novel set in early 20th-century England. With her trademark storytelling flair, Cookson explores the clash between social classes, the price of ambition, and the enduring power of love and loyalty.

From Humble Beginnings to High Society

Sam Fairbrother is a self-made man—ruthless, proud, and determined to leave his humble roots behind. As the owner of a successful drapery empire, he has wealth and power, but he longs for the respect of the upper classes. When he moves his family into a grand new home, he sets his sights on forging new social connections—but his past, and his children’s hearts, may not be so easily controlled.

Conflict, Secrets, and Emotional Depth

As the Fairbrother family navigates love, betrayal, and social pressure, long-buried secrets begin to surface. Cookson masterfully captures the tensions of a society in flux and the internal battles of characters caught between desire and duty.

Perfect for Lovers of Classic Family Sagas

The Upstart is ideal for readers who enjoy sweeping historical fiction with complex characters, moral dilemmas, and richly drawn Northern English settings.