Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 1/4 (4.25 stars) 
Read: June 2024
Format: Kindle e-Book
Challenge Prompt: CNL’s #26 of 50 - “Set over 100 years ago” (1600s/Puritans/Colonial America) AND EOW’s “an independently published book” for the “read during June” option

Book #62 of 2024: This is a debut author whose promo ad I saw. I read the overview and I was intrigued.

This book is set in the 1600s with the Puritans during part of the Colonial period. After reading the blurb on the back, I was surprised to jump straight into Isabel’s marriage. I thought there was going to be more about how her family arrived, what took place, and her courtship with Phillip. The reader is immediately met with his alcoholism, abuse, and the death of two babies in utero because of his drunken rages. It was fine that it started that way but it just didn’t jive with the blurb in my opinion. 

Most importantly, this story captures the reader with the reality and hardship that she is facing. Suddenly she’s alone and her late husband’s brother shows up. Jonathon is the antithesis of Phillip. They become good friends, along with the hired hands. Or is it more? 

Something that really struck me was the harsh and judgmental spirit of some of the Puritans. The leadership refused to be challenged about anything. Women were property. They jumped to conclusions on a dime and doled out accusations like candy. I didn’t know much about the Puritans before and this was a very different sub-genre for me. However, I’m very glad that I read it. 

Things take a drastic turn because of that very judgmental leadership. Then the plot twist happens. I guessed that it would happen and it played out in an interesting manner. 

Isabel’s growing faith and adherence to faithful prayer is so wonderful to witness. Jonathon’s as well. 

I look forward to reading the next book in the series. This is a strong debut and I really enjoyed it.