This is another wonderful book in Lyn Cote’s “Quaker Bride Series”. This book is entirely different than her 1st one, “Honor”. I applaud her in that because too often books in a series have a great deal of similarities in the story line.
The story is rich in historical detail of the 1800’s, concerning strong beliefs and activities of the Abolitionists and Suffragettes movements, and also those who opposed them.
Blessing Brightman was not your typical Quaker woman. She rebelled against her parents and married a wealthy society man, only to find her a widow. Not only had she been accepted to society, but she also inherited a great deal of money. She was passionate about using her wealth to help others. She was a part of the Underground Railroad, had a home for orphaned children, and went into the seediest parts of town to rescue women in prostitution. One thing I so admired about Blessing is how she was highly respected and accepted among the elite, yet she was true to God and her beliefs. She dressed expensively, but modestly and tastefully. She was not afraid to speak the truth where it was needed. I love, love, loved the cover. The stunningly beautiful woman on the front is exactly like what I would imagine Blessing looking like.
Gerald Ramsay stood for everything Blessing did not. He was disinherited by his harsh and distant father. This fuels his desire to prove him wrong by creating his own wealth, by whatever means necessary, even illegally. He is bitter, selfish, strong dislikes outspoken women, and is totally against women’s rights and abolishing slavery. They meet when he comes to Cincinnati to prevent his cousin from marrying a suffragette, who happens to be Blessing’s best friend.
Saying they clash is an understatement. Yet they continue to be thrown together in different situations. Blessing, much to Gerald’s chagrin, stands her ground. It is beautiful as the story unfolds to see deeper into the minds and hearts of the characters. Also to watch Blessing’s testimony and life begin to change Gerald’s heart not only toward her but in many other areas. There is excitement, surprises, and action. This book was so good I stayed up until 3:00 a.m. finishing it! The historical notes by the author at the end were exceptional! I anxiously await the next book in the series, “Faith” to be published in 2016!
I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.