This story brings you on a fascinating trip to the Canadian Arctic, showing you what life was like for the Inuit people in the 1970s. It talks about how the Inuit were sometimes treated badly and the problems they faced when dealing with Westerners.

The main character, Connie, is a new nurse from Manchester. Because of some personal problems, she ends up in the very cold Canadian Arctic. The story shows how she becomes the only medical helper for a big area, and it lets readers see the tough challenges of living in this difficult place. The people in the story, like Daisy who works for the government, and Esther, the Reverend's daughter, make the story more interesting. They show different ways of looking at the relationships in the community. Connie's adventure lasts a whole year, so you get to feel how the Arctic changes from bright summer days to dark winter nights and then back to summer again. ( )

After having her heart broken Nurse Connie Sanders, decides she needs a fresh start, and takes a huge leap by moving from Manchester, all the way to the Canadian Arctic.
As well as the obvious heartbreak, the novel incorporates many other themes, mostly the experiences that we have all suffered at one point in our lives, pain, personal growth and racism etc. which added a layer of realism, making it more relatable and impactful for me.
It was engaging, well-written and mostly a character driven book that offered a tale of adventure and personal growth. I found myself immersed in Connie's journey, feeling the coldness of the Arctic and the heartache she overcame. The story highlights strength of character and the power of change, it was heartfelt, and i really enjoyed my time reading it​​​​​​​​​​. ( )

Sheena Billett's novel, "From Manchester to the Arctic," was an emotional journey, that transported me from Manchester to the Arctic, it follows a young naive woman, who is grappling with heartbreak. Connie Sanders realises she needs a fresh start and makes the decision to move from her home town in Manchester and travel to the Canadian Artic, where she seeks solace and enlightenment.
From Manchester to the Arctic" is a thought-provoking read. The novel had every element a good story should have. An intriguing plot, attention to detail, but best of all fleshed out, well-written and well-rounded character development. It’s one of those stories that come along once in a while that makes you want to read it non-stop until you get to the end. Definitely recommended. ( )

"From Manchester to the Arctic" by Sheena Billett isn't just a book; it's like stumbling into someone's life diary and realizing halfway through that you can't put it down. The story follows Connie Sanders, a young nurse in the 1970s, who, after a heart-wrenching romantic encounter, finds herself in the Canadian Arctic. It's less of a geographical journey and more of a personal odyssey - from heartbreak in Manchester to healing in the icy wilderness.
The Arctic here isn't just a setting; it's practically a character on its own. Billett does this neat trick of making you feel the cold through her words, and you're not sure whether to thank her or send her your heating bill. You see, the beauty of the Arctic, with its vast, untouched landscapes, mirrors Connie's own unfolding story - one of discovery, resilience, and a bit of 'I-can't-believe-I'm-actually-doing-this'.
What's fascinating is how Billett weaves in heavy themes like LGBTQ+ relationships, the societal push and pull, and environmental issues, all while keeping the story as light as the Arctic snow. It's like she's saying, "Yes, life can be tough, but hey, let's find the humor and humanity in it."
Connie's growth from a naive, somewhat sheltered young woman into a more grounded, self-assured person is like watching a flower bloom in fast-forward. It's believable, touching, and, at times, a bit too real.
In short, "From Manchester to the Arctic" is a story that feels like a conversation with an old friend - honest, sometimes raw, but always with a warmth that makes you want to stay a bit longer. It's for those who love a good, human story, one that doesn't need to shout to be heard. And, if you've ever wanted to travel to the Arctic but can't stand the cold, this book is your ticket. Just maybe keep a warm blanket handy. ( )

The title of the book suggests that it's about a uniquely woven journey.

The story is about the journey of a nurse named Connie. The story proceeds, keeping her as the central character; therefore, it can be correctly claimed to be the story of her life. The story involves many folds and involves a unique relationship, homophobia, natural calamities like global warming, and human emotions and griefs in different situations.

I was completely absorbed in the book. Connie and her wife Glenda had a unique relationship that drew interest in the love and lives of people with different tastes.
As the subplots are seamlessly arranged in the background of the storytelling, the reader ought to keep turning the pages.
My favorite character was Daisy, as she was real and uniquely grafted with utter care to maintain a perfect balance of love, care, and emotions.
This has been my first read by the author, and I can expect more great work like this in the future. ( )