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Women of Hope #1
For Such a Time as This
Drought has forced farmers around the small town of Bountiful in the Hope region of Oregon to mortgage their property. Then word comes of plans for a spur line to run through the area and join the railroad in nearby Milton. Folks with money see an opportunity to fill their coffers by buying farmland cheap then selling to the railroad for a profit. The Bank of Bountiful, owned by Eli Whitman, appears to be doing that, as well.
Widowed two years earlier, Eli, with a son and daughter to raise, sought a hard-working, educated Christian woman to care for them and his home. Olivia Moore filled the bill, and as soon as Eli recognized her as an excellent investment, he offered her first employment then a marriage of convenience.
While Olivia is an excellent choice, her large family gives Eli pause. He knows about the problems posed by in-laws, so he will do whatever it takes to avoid a repeat of his earlier experiences.
When Papa tells Olivia the Moore family must move according to Eli's terms for the new railroad line, she fears for their safety, since they'll be homeless during winter. Where will they go? How will they survive?
It is up to Olivia to convince her husband to renege on his demands, though she swore before their marriage she would stay out of his business.
Widowed two years earlier, Eli, with a son and daughter to raise, sought a hard-working, educated Christian woman to care for them and his home. Olivia Moore filled the bill, and as soon as Eli recognized her as an excellent investment, he offered her first employment then a marriage of convenience.
While Olivia is an excellent choice, her large family gives Eli pause. He knows about the problems posed by in-laws, so he will do whatever it takes to avoid a repeat of his earlier experiences.
When Papa tells Olivia the Moore family must move according to Eli's terms for the new railroad line, she fears for their safety, since they'll be homeless during winter. Where will they go? How will they survive?
It is up to Olivia to convince her husband to renege on his demands, though she swore before their marriage she would stay out of his business.
384 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2012
76 people are currently reading
756 people want to read
About the author
Ginny Aiken
51 books97 followersGinny Aiken, a former newspaper reporter, lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and their three younger sons--the oldest is married, has flown the coop, and made her a doting grandmother. Born in Havana, Cuba, and raised in Valencia and Caracas Venezuela, Ginny discovered books at an early age. She wrote her first novel at age fifteen while she trained with the Ballets de Caracas, later to be known as the Venezuelan National Ballet. She burned that tome when she turned a "mature" sixteen. An ecletic list of jobs--including stints as reporter, paralegal, choreographer, language teacher, retail salesperson, wife, mother of four boys, and herder of their numerous and assorted friends, including the 135 members of first the Crossmen and then the Bluecoats Drum & Bugle Corps--brought her back to books in search of her sanity. She is now the author of twenty-seven published works, but she hasn't caught up with that elusive sanity yet.
http://ginnyaikenwrites.com/About_Me....
http://ginnyaikenwrites.com/About_Me....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
May 26, 2017
So...really, I think the issue is that this book never decides what its true identity is. Is it a romance? A drama? A play on an older tale? A mystery? And thus the plot suffers confusion and inconsistencies.
I wish I hadn't known this was meant as an Esther retelling. As a take on a theme, the plot was widely deviant and failed in its dissimilarities. Rather than accentuating something, it undermined the book's stated purpose. It would have been one thing if she had used the title verse as a life inspiration, which she did...but a retelling did not happen here. It would take some invention to recognize the storyline of Esther here. Also, some of the characters changed too much, like her father...he went from being a steady, worried farmer to a man who tried to force his daughter to ruin her relationship with her husband. He had to have known the past gossip and yet still wanted to force his daughter to ask her husband for a large request, but wasn't man enough to bring it up himself when he had the man right in front of him. She was put in a bad situation and I did not like the parents' sense of entitlement that they expected a newlywed to do what they had no courage to. Because I hated the situation, I had little sympathy for the farmers and thus little sense of urgency about the problem.
Edit 5/17: Recalling a book with a sense of irritation is making me drop my rating from three to two stars and put the book in a giveaway stack.
I wish I hadn't known this was meant as an Esther retelling. As a take on a theme, the plot was widely deviant and failed in its dissimilarities. Rather than accentuating something, it undermined the book's stated purpose. It would have been one thing if she had used the title verse as a life inspiration, which she did...but a retelling did not happen here. It would take some invention to recognize the storyline of Esther here. Also, some of the characters changed too much, like her father...he went from being a steady, worried farmer to a man who tried to force his daughter to ruin her relationship with her husband. He had to have known the past gossip and yet still wanted to force his daughter to ask her husband for a large request, but wasn't man enough to bring it up himself when he had the man right in front of him. She was put in a bad situation and I did not like the parents' sense of entitlement that they expected a newlywed to do what they had no courage to. Because I hated the situation, I had little sympathy for the farmers and thus little sense of urgency about the problem.
Edit 5/17: Recalling a book with a sense of irritation is making me drop my rating from three to two stars and put the book in a giveaway stack.
January 29, 2024
This is a loose retelling of the Biblical Esther story. And I mean stretched that maybe some points of an outline match up.
1870s Oregon. A drought and grasshoppers have invaded the land. Oliva Moore through circumstances has become the nanny turned wife to Eli Whitman the town's bank owner.
Through shenanigans there is a plot to undermine the farmers and ranchers in the area. And due to Eli's history with his deceased, bad wife, he doesn't give Olivia the benefit of the doubt and treats her as a child or a wise woman as it suits him.
As a western, yeah, I liked it. As an Esther retelling...there's some similarity.
1870s Oregon. A drought and grasshoppers have invaded the land. Oliva Moore through circumstances has become the nanny turned wife to Eli Whitman the town's bank owner.
Through shenanigans there is a plot to undermine the farmers and ranchers in the area. And due to Eli's history with his deceased, bad wife, he doesn't give Olivia the benefit of the doubt and treats her as a child or a wise woman as it suits him.
As a western, yeah, I liked it. As an Esther retelling...there's some similarity.
March 8, 2017
I really struggled to read this book. I found the translation of Queen Esther into 1879 Oregan difficult.
For Such A Time As This is written from the point-of-view of Olivia. Her family is in dire straits, so she takes a job as "live in nanny" for a widower--the local bank president. Apparently the local town members are beginning to gossip about the living situation (seriously...that's all it takes to have two strangers marry?!?). Before the wedding Olivia agrees to NEVER interfer with his bank business (Apparently Banker's previous marriage was less then perfect since his wife's family swindled from him nearly to bankruptcy).
So, as expected, the marriage of convenience doesn't last past the first half of the book. Nothing explicit is mentioned. It is, after all, Christian fiction.
Anyway, Daddy dearest approaches his daughter and lets her know that the bank is foreclosing on his farm. And hey, you're married to the bank president so could you please ask him to extend the loan? Olivia explains that she couldn't mention anything to husband because of the deal she made to never interfer. Dad explains that she was placed in such a place to save her family. (Really, that is how you interpret the saving of a nation--saving your family from financial hardship?! That isn't like the slaughter of an entire nation!!) After much prayer, Olivia comes to the same conclusion as Daddy dearest but must work up the nerve to speak to her husband. Apparently for a very long time (chapters). Her parents don't understand what the hold up is (speaking of hold-ups--the bank is held up and Banker darling is shot, though not fatally).
Somehow Daddy figures out that something hinky is going on and one of the bank employees is trying to swindle from the bank. Olivia tries to do some sleuthing. Everyone at the bank seems on the up and up. Later that evening Banker asks what she would like for Christmas. So she explains that she would like mercy for her family. Intrigued he wants to know more, so she explains the foreclosure letter. Banker is upset and they discuss the situation a little then go to bed (If I found out I was being swindled and that my business could be ruined, I doubt I would go to sleep that night NOR host a party the very next day...)
At the christmas party (the next day) the confront the "bad guy" who attacks them with a knife. The wrap up is confusing perhaps because Olivia was injured and is taking laudanum! and the best that I could figure out: Banker and Olivia tell each other they love each other, the railroad is no longer coming to the town, the farmers are saved and Olivia and Banker go on to reproduce two fine children. The end!
**I won this book in a good reads giveaway. This is my honest opinion :)
For Such A Time As This is written from the point-of-view of Olivia. Her family is in dire straits, so she takes a job as "live in nanny" for a widower--the local bank president. Apparently the local town members are beginning to gossip about the living situation (seriously...that's all it takes to have two strangers marry?!?). Before the wedding Olivia agrees to NEVER interfer with his bank business (Apparently Banker's previous marriage was less then perfect since his wife's family swindled from him nearly to bankruptcy).
So, as expected, the marriage of convenience doesn't last past the first half of the book. Nothing explicit is mentioned. It is, after all, Christian fiction.
Anyway, Daddy dearest approaches his daughter and lets her know that the bank is foreclosing on his farm. And hey, you're married to the bank president so could you please ask him to extend the loan? Olivia explains that she couldn't mention anything to husband because of the deal she made to never interfer. Dad explains that she was placed in such a place to save her family. (Really, that is how you interpret the saving of a nation--saving your family from financial hardship?! That isn't like the slaughter of an entire nation!!) After much prayer, Olivia comes to the same conclusion as Daddy dearest but must work up the nerve to speak to her husband. Apparently for a very long time (chapters). Her parents don't understand what the hold up is (speaking of hold-ups--the bank is held up and Banker darling is shot, though not fatally).
Somehow Daddy figures out that something hinky is going on and one of the bank employees is trying to swindle from the bank. Olivia tries to do some sleuthing. Everyone at the bank seems on the up and up. Later that evening Banker asks what she would like for Christmas. So she explains that she would like mercy for her family. Intrigued he wants to know more, so she explains the foreclosure letter. Banker is upset and they discuss the situation a little then go to bed (If I found out I was being swindled and that my business could be ruined, I doubt I would go to sleep that night NOR host a party the very next day...)
At the christmas party (the next day) the confront the "bad guy" who attacks them with a knife. The wrap up is confusing perhaps because Olivia was injured and is taking laudanum! and the best that I could figure out: Banker and Olivia tell each other they love each other, the railroad is no longer coming to the town, the farmers are saved and Olivia and Banker go on to reproduce two fine children. The end!
**I won this book in a good reads giveaway. This is my honest opinion :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2021
This a retelling of Esther story in Oregon in 1879.
At the beginning I could not really see the similarities with Esther story it is only after reading half of the book that it becomes more noticeable.
The story is centered on God's power to act on our behalf, and how it is important to trust him and the people he places in our lives.
I like the idea of Ginny Aiken of rewriting Esther story in the 19th century. The story was ok.
At the beginning I could not really see the similarities with Esther story it is only after reading half of the book that it becomes more noticeable.
The story is centered on God's power to act on our behalf, and how it is important to trust him and the people he places in our lives.
I like the idea of Ginny Aiken of rewriting Esther story in the 19th century. The story was ok.
September 28, 2012
I just finished a great book by author Ginny Aiken, whom I had never had the privilege of reading one of her novels yet. For Such A Time As This was a wonderful read that I would (and have already started to) recommend to others to go out and pick up their own copy.
With so many people today facing difficult economic times, the overall theme of the book was so relevant. Despite the historical setting, I was able to relate to the feelings of desperation and sadness that financial pressure can put a person under. In the opening chapter, we are introduced to Olivia and her family and what affect the drought and ascending grasshoppers have had on their land for the last two years. Soon it is evident that the majority of the town is suffering the same plight, so an overall feeling of hopelessness permeates.
Very soon, though, even though the financial burdens have not changed, the focus of the book shifts from being burdened to choosing to trust God and His timing. That is also so relevant in today’s society. Trust for their financial future, trust in God’s timing to work out all the details, and the self control not to rush ahead of God’s plan or fall behind by failing to obey when He calls. The overall message that God’s goodness will prevail despite the evil plans of others is introduced and clung too, despite the way circumstances appear.
I felt a bond with Olivia immediately. She had so many traits that I admired. Patience, strength (not in herself but in her Heavenly Father), a sense of humor, and most of all, an underlying peace that emanated from her entire being. The hero, Eli, was easy to fall in love with as well. Despite the issues that he was dealing with, specifically in the area of trust, the author painted a picture of a man who loved his family and his town, and honor was his lifeblood.
The secondary characters really rounded out the novel nicely. I felt like I lived in the home with the children and the cook and was accepted as part of Olivia’s extended family from the start. Ms. Aiken wrote so descriptively that I could taste not only the bland soup but also the thick, delicious, warm, homemade bread.
If you love to read books with a little suspense and a little romance that also help to deepen your Christian faith, this is a book I would highly recommend. If you don’t normally pick up historical romances, don’t let that stop you. This book appeals to those who enjoy historical as well as contemporary reads. It definitely would appeal to the reader who enjoys a reminder that when we release our concerns, even as big as our entire financial future to God and wait for His timing, that we will see huge results. I know I especially need that reminder from time to time.
This story was based on the true story of Esther found in the Bible, which further reinforces that real life problems can have “happily-ever-after-endings” when God is the One in charge!
I, for one, cannot wait for the next book to come out by this author. I am ready to read it already.
With so many people today facing difficult economic times, the overall theme of the book was so relevant. Despite the historical setting, I was able to relate to the feelings of desperation and sadness that financial pressure can put a person under. In the opening chapter, we are introduced to Olivia and her family and what affect the drought and ascending grasshoppers have had on their land for the last two years. Soon it is evident that the majority of the town is suffering the same plight, so an overall feeling of hopelessness permeates.
Very soon, though, even though the financial burdens have not changed, the focus of the book shifts from being burdened to choosing to trust God and His timing. That is also so relevant in today’s society. Trust for their financial future, trust in God’s timing to work out all the details, and the self control not to rush ahead of God’s plan or fall behind by failing to obey when He calls. The overall message that God’s goodness will prevail despite the evil plans of others is introduced and clung too, despite the way circumstances appear.
I felt a bond with Olivia immediately. She had so many traits that I admired. Patience, strength (not in herself but in her Heavenly Father), a sense of humor, and most of all, an underlying peace that emanated from her entire being. The hero, Eli, was easy to fall in love with as well. Despite the issues that he was dealing with, specifically in the area of trust, the author painted a picture of a man who loved his family and his town, and honor was his lifeblood.
The secondary characters really rounded out the novel nicely. I felt like I lived in the home with the children and the cook and was accepted as part of Olivia’s extended family from the start. Ms. Aiken wrote so descriptively that I could taste not only the bland soup but also the thick, delicious, warm, homemade bread.
If you love to read books with a little suspense and a little romance that also help to deepen your Christian faith, this is a book I would highly recommend. If you don’t normally pick up historical romances, don’t let that stop you. This book appeals to those who enjoy historical as well as contemporary reads. It definitely would appeal to the reader who enjoys a reminder that when we release our concerns, even as big as our entire financial future to God and wait for His timing, that we will see huge results. I know I especially need that reminder from time to time.
This story was based on the true story of Esther found in the Bible, which further reinforces that real life problems can have “happily-ever-after-endings” when God is the One in charge!
I, for one, cannot wait for the next book to come out by this author. I am ready to read it already.
July 19, 2016
American historical retelling of Esther.
When Olivia asks for a governess job in order to help her dirt-poor family, she didn't plan on two reckless children, a gruff housekeeper, and certainly not the charm of Eli Whitman, her too-handsome employer.
Gossips demand Olivia and Eli marry, but he has one stipulation: Olivia must never interfere with his bank's business matters. His late wife did and betrayed him with heartbreaking scandal.
Alarmed at her growing feelings for her convenience-only husband, Olivia receives the news Eli's Bank is foreclosing on her parent's farm due to drought. Will she break her word to never interfere with her husband's business or let him turn her family into the streets with cold winter coming?
This book took some time for me to get into. But I'm glad I stuck it out. I skimmed a good bit, mostly because there are so many other titles waiting on me. And the writing wasn't as tight a I like. Things picked up speed nicely around the halfway point, though.
And oh, the ending. :) In the end, there was that sweet, heart-full ache that comes after the end of a good book. That's what got this story four stars from me. Eli and Olivia's romance comes very softly and quietly, but leaves a lasting impression.
When Olivia asks for a governess job in order to help her dirt-poor family, she didn't plan on two reckless children, a gruff housekeeper, and certainly not the charm of Eli Whitman, her too-handsome employer.
Gossips demand Olivia and Eli marry, but he has one stipulation: Olivia must never interfere with his bank's business matters. His late wife did and betrayed him with heartbreaking scandal.
Alarmed at her growing feelings for her convenience-only husband, Olivia receives the news Eli's Bank is foreclosing on her parent's farm due to drought. Will she break her word to never interfere with her husband's business or let him turn her family into the streets with cold winter coming?
This book took some time for me to get into. But I'm glad I stuck it out. I skimmed a good bit, mostly because there are so many other titles waiting on me. And the writing wasn't as tight a I like. Things picked up speed nicely around the halfway point, though.
And oh, the ending. :) In the end, there was that sweet, heart-full ache that comes after the end of a good book. That's what got this story four stars from me. Eli and Olivia's romance comes very softly and quietly, but leaves a lasting impression.
August 30, 2016
If you like the idea of an Esther retelling set in 1870's Oregon, this might be an enjoyable read for you. Unfortunately, I did not enjoy the writing style and found the story and characters to have less depth than I was hoping for. Saddest of all, it just wasn't memorable.
I always hesitate to give negative reviews. If the premise appeals to you, and you enjoy the writing style, then give it a go!
I always hesitate to give negative reviews. If the premise appeals to you, and you enjoy the writing style, then give it a go!
April 4, 2020
Change a few circumstances and this book is just like the story of Esther. How do you choose between your spouse and your family? Olivia did the right thing although it was hard. Not only did it help her family, but it also opened her husband’s eyes to some shady going on. Just like God gave Esther the boldness, he did the same for Olivia. He can do the same for us, too. Very well done!
June 2, 2015
I'm not sure when I read this. It was sometime in the last year or so. but I remember liking it a lot. Note to self... next time, keep better track of the books you read and what you would rate them. *face-palm*
September 2, 2024
3 ⭐️ // Plot Moods: emotional hopeful mysterious
Plot Pace: medium
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Loveable characters? Yes
This is a sweet retelling of the story of Esther from the Bible. Set in the late 19th century in frontier Oregon, it has all the charm of other frontier marriage-of-convenience romances with a dash of mystery, a thread of faith that weaves through the entire plot, and an intriguing dramatic plot line that finds stays pretty true to the original conflict.
The characters are loveable and solid, although the execution of some of their development is something I get was lacking. First, I didn’t like how Luke and Miranda were a big part of the first half of the book and then all of a sudden they were background characters almost excluded from the plot line. Second, I felt like readers were owed more scenes in Eli’s POV. We read a lot of the story through Olivia’s development, which I liked, but then we were treated to only a few scenes in Eli’s POV. I would have liked to have either seen more scenes in his POV to show his development or no scenes from his POV at all. I also felt like the character of Olivia’s friend was unnecessary and her role could have been fulfilled by a member of Olivia’s family or by Cooky.
Overall, this story kept me entertained. I would recommend it to fans of historical (closed door) romances, and for fans of Biblical retellings.
Plot Pace: medium
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Loveable characters? Yes
This is a sweet retelling of the story of Esther from the Bible. Set in the late 19th century in frontier Oregon, it has all the charm of other frontier marriage-of-convenience romances with a dash of mystery, a thread of faith that weaves through the entire plot, and an intriguing dramatic plot line that finds stays pretty true to the original conflict.
The characters are loveable and solid, although the execution of some of their development is something I get was lacking. First, I didn’t like how Luke and Miranda were a big part of the first half of the book and then all of a sudden they were background characters almost excluded from the plot line. Second, I felt like readers were owed more scenes in Eli’s POV. We read a lot of the story through Olivia’s development, which I liked, but then we were treated to only a few scenes in Eli’s POV. I would have liked to have either seen more scenes in his POV to show his development or no scenes from his POV at all. I also felt like the character of Olivia’s friend was unnecessary and her role could have been fulfilled by a member of Olivia’s family or by Cooky.
Overall, this story kept me entertained. I would recommend it to fans of historical (closed door) romances, and for fans of Biblical retellings.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2020
I enjoyed the beginning of this series. My understanding is it was supposed to be sort of a retelling of Esther. But I think it existed separate and apart from that. Oh you could certainly see the elements that you had in common but I feel like it’s a story of a con maybe based on Esther. I know there is an a really huge difference between being based on some thing and being a retelling of it but I feel better with that language. Anyway I liked Olivia quite a bit and enjoyed her creativity. I also enjoyed the creativity of the children… Some of their shenanigans were interesting. I also liked Eli and I felt very sorry for his previous troubles and how they fit into his miss trust of his new wife. It’s not an uncommon theme to be sure. I liked the epilogue they gave us an idea of what sort of happened in the characters family. I’m looking forward to reading the next installment of the series
April 10, 2022
This was a good historical fiction story. This story takes place in Oregon which is a state I LOVE! It's beautiful in every way and I wish I could live there. Here the main character is a hard working woman who lives with her family. Yet when her family falls on hard times due to a drought she seeks work as a live in nanny to the owner of a the bank that holds her families mortgage. Unbeknownst to her the bank has some trust issues when it comes to women due to his late wife actions. Olivia is determined to save her family farm and will do anything to keep her job to make the payments. This mean making sure the two children are well taken care of. This book was an easy read. The flow was good and I was interested from the start. Once done I had to go get the second and third books of the series.
June 4, 2022
The potential was there, but the execution was lacking.
I was able to easily skim at least a third of the book without feeling like I’d missed anything at all. Too many inconsistencies, too many characters to keep track of without much secondary character development, too much exposition, not enough plot, and the heroine was just too perfect. Despite it being a Christian romance, she was way too squeaky clean without any flaws to balance her personality. Not relatable or believable.
There were some touching moments and humor, but not enough for me to rate this higher than I have.
It’s not something I’ll be rereading, and likely won’t read any of her other books. I wish I hadn’t bought it and only borrowed it, but alas!
I was able to easily skim at least a third of the book without feeling like I’d missed anything at all. Too many inconsistencies, too many characters to keep track of without much secondary character development, too much exposition, not enough plot, and the heroine was just too perfect. Despite it being a Christian romance, she was way too squeaky clean without any flaws to balance her personality. Not relatable or believable.
There were some touching moments and humor, but not enough for me to rate this higher than I have.
It’s not something I’ll be rereading, and likely won’t read any of her other books. I wish I hadn’t bought it and only borrowed it, but alas!
March 2, 2021
I really loved this book more than I thought I would. I don't usually read historical fiction but I dove in and couldn't wait to go deeper. I was surprised that there was more to it than just the struggles of the times. There was some mystery, intrigue and romance. I am looking forward to reading more of Ginny Aiken and her Women of Hope series.
January 18, 2018
This book had me hooked from the first page. Love the plot and can't wait to read the next
March 14, 2019
Trustworthy
Watching how difficult it was for Eli to trust again strongly proved how important trust is. Working hard to keep one's trust should be high on everyone list
Watching how difficult it was for Eli to trust again strongly proved how important trust is. Working hard to keep one's trust should be high on everyone list
March 26, 2020
Excellent book. I quite enjoyed it, and it kept me on my toes.
March 26, 2021
Christian romance novel set in 1879. There are similarities to Mary Poppins as country girl becomes a nanny. A feel good book, easy and fast read.
September 14, 2022
Great Historical fiction - Having Faith and believing in the Lord
August 11, 2023
A "modern-day" twist on the biblical story of Esther. Set in the late 1870s, it brings the significance and drama of Esther's story to a western romance.
March 18, 2024
It started out very well but then got boring but then got exciting again. A few scenes were very good with action. It wasn't terrible and at least kept me wanting to read.
June 14, 2024
1st time I remember reading one of hers I will read more of them If had not known retelling of Esther might have missed the connection towards the end
December 29, 2024
Good book, kept me interested, the ending was a bit dull
June 5, 2025
Cute little western romance Scott picked out for me at the library. This wasn't something I would immediately pick for myself, but I had a lot of fun!
June 16, 2025
So good! I just bought the other 2 books from this author.
April 18, 2025
I read the first few chapters of this book last night, but the writing was so poor, I chose to abandon this book. When I was younger, I felt it my duty to finish every book I started reading. After all, the author spent his precious time and effort creating something he wanted to share with the world. But life is too short to waste time reading poorly written books. I am not biased against this book because it is Christian. I am a Christian and have enjoyed many Christian historical romance books over the years- sadly this is not one of them.
On the back cover, the blurb about this author includes that she teaches creative writing. I shudder at the thought. The following is a sample of this author’s writing “…she yanked a pillowcase off its mooring, reached for a pair of socks, and then an old towel. In moments, she had stripped the rest of the wash from where she’d hung it not long ago. When she reached the post at the end of the line, she leaned on it and paused to catch her breath, a difficult endeavor as the gritty air continued to batter her face.” Strained metaphors like clothes “moored” on a line and the wind “battering” her face irk me, not to mention the pedestrian writing overall. The author is describing a drought, yet she chose the word “moored”. When I read “moored”, I instantly think of a boat and of course WATER! The word “wash” was also badly chosen. Wash brings up WATER! She could have used the more obvious and appropriate word “clothes”. Her poor word choice did not make me think of a drought, I did not conjure up the picture in my mind that she hoped her reader would imagine. If you like this type of writing, then by all means read this book. But if you prefer writing with a little more substance, give this one a miss.
On the back cover, the blurb about this author includes that she teaches creative writing. I shudder at the thought. The following is a sample of this author’s writing “…she yanked a pillowcase off its mooring, reached for a pair of socks, and then an old towel. In moments, she had stripped the rest of the wash from where she’d hung it not long ago. When she reached the post at the end of the line, she leaned on it and paused to catch her breath, a difficult endeavor as the gritty air continued to batter her face.” Strained metaphors like clothes “moored” on a line and the wind “battering” her face irk me, not to mention the pedestrian writing overall. The author is describing a drought, yet she chose the word “moored”. When I read “moored”, I instantly think of a boat and of course WATER! The word “wash” was also badly chosen. Wash brings up WATER! She could have used the more obvious and appropriate word “clothes”. Her poor word choice did not make me think of a drought, I did not conjure up the picture in my mind that she hoped her reader would imagine. If you like this type of writing, then by all means read this book. But if you prefer writing with a little more substance, give this one a miss.
August 28, 2012
Times have always been tough out west, especially in the 1800's for families looking to make a living and a new start, especially along the Oregon Trail. Hope County, Oregon is definitely no exception, but after years of no rain and now grasshoppers eating whatever farmers can grow, most families are barely able to put enough food on the table for them to eat and have been forced to sell off their livestock.
The Moore family is no exception and it doesn't help Olivia, the oldest daughter, to overhear the anxieties that are facing her family, during the late night talks between her parents. They have already mortgaged as much of the farm as they can and if things don't change soon, they may have to sell everything. It's through a chance encounter on the streets of Bountiful that Olivia feels God's calling to help her family. When a group of wild boys chase and tease a group of girls with a stolen pig, Olivia handles the situation with grace, patience and manners of a lady well beyond her years. Mr. Elijah Whitman, president of the bank, witnesses the entire display and soon learns that his son, Luke is part of the group of boys.
It seems that once again, Mr. Whitman wishes he had someone to help him raise his son, Luke and daughter, Miranda, but he can't seem to find a nanny that will stay and put forth the effort to teach them some manners. Being president of the bank, calls him out of town quite a bit and unless something changes, he has no other choice but to send them both off to boarding schools. Luke suggests that Ms. Olivia Moore would make the perfect nanny for them and soon Olivia believes that God is pointing her toward hope in helping her family out in the process by getting a job.
In the novel, For Such A Time As This by Ginny Aiken, the storyline gets interesting when Ms. Moore takes the position as a child companion, she dislikes the title of nanny and the children believe they don't need one since nanny's are for babies, especially Miranda. At first the children resort to their old tried and true favorite pranks they have used to "rid" themselves of having someone to care for them including "Cooky" the household cook who is used to being ignored. Yet none of them were prepared for the fact that Olivia has had experience dealing with her younger brothers and sisters and therefore, can see a teaching moment in everything. She knows she has to do something they aren't expecting in order for the children to see her as their ally and someone who is there to help them grow. Along the way, the children begin to fully appreciate what Ms. Moore brings to the household but not before the town can begin to gossip and it causes her reputation to be called into question.
I received For Such A Time As This compliments of Faith Words Publishers, a division of Hachette Book Groups for my honest opinion. I completely feel in love with the character of Olivia Moore. She wants to do whatever she can to aid her family and along the way finds her true calling in helping to raise the Whitman children where none had succeeded before. She relies on God to help her through difficult times when she feels like throwing in the towel and simply going home and that shows the true character of strength and perseverance in trouble times. I rate this one hands down a 5 out of 5 stars as the first book in the Women of Hope series and can't wait to read the next one! Ginny Aiken has answered the called of my heart's genre!
The Moore family is no exception and it doesn't help Olivia, the oldest daughter, to overhear the anxieties that are facing her family, during the late night talks between her parents. They have already mortgaged as much of the farm as they can and if things don't change soon, they may have to sell everything. It's through a chance encounter on the streets of Bountiful that Olivia feels God's calling to help her family. When a group of wild boys chase and tease a group of girls with a stolen pig, Olivia handles the situation with grace, patience and manners of a lady well beyond her years. Mr. Elijah Whitman, president of the bank, witnesses the entire display and soon learns that his son, Luke is part of the group of boys.
It seems that once again, Mr. Whitman wishes he had someone to help him raise his son, Luke and daughter, Miranda, but he can't seem to find a nanny that will stay and put forth the effort to teach them some manners. Being president of the bank, calls him out of town quite a bit and unless something changes, he has no other choice but to send them both off to boarding schools. Luke suggests that Ms. Olivia Moore would make the perfect nanny for them and soon Olivia believes that God is pointing her toward hope in helping her family out in the process by getting a job.
In the novel, For Such A Time As This by Ginny Aiken, the storyline gets interesting when Ms. Moore takes the position as a child companion, she dislikes the title of nanny and the children believe they don't need one since nanny's are for babies, especially Miranda. At first the children resort to their old tried and true favorite pranks they have used to "rid" themselves of having someone to care for them including "Cooky" the household cook who is used to being ignored. Yet none of them were prepared for the fact that Olivia has had experience dealing with her younger brothers and sisters and therefore, can see a teaching moment in everything. She knows she has to do something they aren't expecting in order for the children to see her as their ally and someone who is there to help them grow. Along the way, the children begin to fully appreciate what Ms. Moore brings to the household but not before the town can begin to gossip and it causes her reputation to be called into question.
I received For Such A Time As This compliments of Faith Words Publishers, a division of Hachette Book Groups for my honest opinion. I completely feel in love with the character of Olivia Moore. She wants to do whatever she can to aid her family and along the way finds her true calling in helping to raise the Whitman children where none had succeeded before. She relies on God to help her through difficult times when she feels like throwing in the towel and simply going home and that shows the true character of strength and perseverance in trouble times. I rate this one hands down a 5 out of 5 stars as the first book in the Women of Hope series and can't wait to read the next one! Ginny Aiken has answered the called of my heart's genre!
December 2, 2012
Ginny Aiken in her new book, “For Such A Time As This book coverFor Such a Time as This” Book One in the A Women of Hope series published by FaithWords brings us into the life of Olivia Moore.
From the back cover: Olivia Moore has been praying desperately to God for guidance. Drought and plagues of insects have devastated her family’s farm in Hope County, Oregon and her parents don’t know how they’ll survive the winter. Deciding to ease their burden, Olivia applies to be the new nanny to the children of handsome widower Elijah Whitman, the president of the Bank of Bountiful. Since the death of their mother, Luke and his sister, Miranda, have been increasingly wild and have driven every governess back East. Having helped raise her brothers and sisters, Olivia convinces Elijah she’s up to the job.
As Olivia works to win over the children and settle into the Whitman household, gossip begins to spread throughout the town about Olivia and Elijah. For the sake of her reputation, it seems Olivia will have to leave Hope County, until Elijah proposes another solution: Marriage. It would be a purely business relationship, and Elijah’s one emphatic condition is that she promise never to interfere with her work. She accepts, but when the Bank of Bountiful forecloses on the Moore’s farm, Olivia is torn between her duty to her husband and her love for her family.
The railroad is coming and it will bring prosperity back to Hope County as the drought is casing havoc with the farms and finances. In an effort to just hold on until the railroad comes in the farmers mortgage their land. Now it is a question of time; will the drought break and the farmers produce a crop or will the railroad line get there or will the bank foreclose? Olivia is married to Elijah, the bank president who is doing the foreclosures, but this is a marriage of convenience and she has no real power and he doesn’t want her advice in his business. What is she ever going to do? I think Ginny Aiken did a wonderful job with the names of the places. They live in the town of Bountiful in the County of Hope. That gives you the idea of what the town should be doing and what everybody should have. Ms. Aiken has also done a marvelous job of bringing the Biblical story of Esther to a Western community. Olivia, Elijah and the other characters play out so well on the pages you would think you had known them all your life. “For Such A Time As This” is a great read that I was sorry to see come to an end. The good news is Ms. Aiken has a new story coming next year with new characters that we can grow to love as well.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from FaithWords. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Olivia Moore has been praying desperately to God for guidance. Drought and plagues of insects have devastated her family’s farm in Hope County, Oregon and her parents don’t know how they’ll survive the winter. Deciding to ease their burden, Olivia applies to be the new nanny to the children of handsome widower Elijah Whitman, the president of the Bank of Bountiful. Since the death of their mother, Luke and his sister, Miranda, have been increasingly wild and have driven every governess back East. Having helped raise her brothers and sisters, Olivia convinces Elijah she’s up to the job.
As Olivia works to win over the children and settle into the Whitman household, gossip begins to spread throughout the town about Olivia and Elijah. For the sake of her reputation, it seems Olivia will have to leave Hope County, until Elijah proposes another solution: Marriage. It would be a purely business relationship, and Elijah’s one emphatic condition is that she promise never to interfere with her work. She accepts, but when the Bank of Bountiful forecloses on the Moore’s farm, Olivia is torn between her duty to her husband and her love for her family.
The railroad is coming and it will bring prosperity back to Hope County as the drought is casing havoc with the farms and finances. In an effort to just hold on until the railroad comes in the farmers mortgage their land. Now it is a question of time; will the drought break and the farmers produce a crop or will the railroad line get there or will the bank foreclose? Olivia is married to Elijah, the bank president who is doing the foreclosures, but this is a marriage of convenience and she has no real power and he doesn’t want her advice in his business. What is she ever going to do? I think Ginny Aiken did a wonderful job with the names of the places. They live in the town of Bountiful in the County of Hope. That gives you the idea of what the town should be doing and what everybody should have. Ms. Aiken has also done a marvelous job of bringing the Biblical story of Esther to a Western community. Olivia, Elijah and the other characters play out so well on the pages you would think you had known them all your life. “For Such A Time As This” is a great read that I was sorry to see come to an end. The good news is Ms. Aiken has a new story coming next year with new characters that we can grow to love as well.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from FaithWords. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 28, 2017
Pretty good reading. Much like other bride books.
December 28, 2012
Title: FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS
Author: Ginny Aiken
Publisher: FaithWords
August 2012
ISBN: 978-0-8929-6848-0
Genre: Historical
Olivia Moore’s family is in dire straights. The grasshoppers and draught have ruined any hope of a crop, and her father has been forced to mortgage the property. Hoping to relieve her strain on the family, Olivia offered her services as a nanny to the town’s banker after she witnesses his son running wild with the town’s hooligans.
Eli Whitman is leery of wives, and the past few nannies he’s hired has run off after being subjected to his children’s shenanigans. He’s impressed by Olivia’s handling of his children and how peaceful his home has become as a result.
But rumor is threatening to ruin Olivia’s good name, people are determined to think the worst of her for being a nanny, so she either has to lose her job or accept Eli’s offer of marriage of convenience. Olivia is torn. She doesn’t want to be a burden on her family, but she also wants love. When the railroad plans to come to town, Olivia is forced to make more difficult choices for her family’s welfare.
FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS is the first book I’ve ever read by Ms. Aiken and the first book in her Women of Hope series. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Olivia and Eli. This book is kind of a cross between The Sound of Music and the biblical story of Esther. It is an engaging tale of a nanny struggling to find her way in another’s home, and a man struggling to better his town, his job, and his home.
If you are looking for a good historical, then FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS is a book to consider. It is a winner. The second book in the series is releasing in 2013 Remember Me When. $13.99. 384 pages.
Author: Ginny Aiken
Publisher: FaithWords
August 2012
ISBN: 978-0-8929-6848-0
Genre: Historical
Olivia Moore’s family is in dire straights. The grasshoppers and draught have ruined any hope of a crop, and her father has been forced to mortgage the property. Hoping to relieve her strain on the family, Olivia offered her services as a nanny to the town’s banker after she witnesses his son running wild with the town’s hooligans.
Eli Whitman is leery of wives, and the past few nannies he’s hired has run off after being subjected to his children’s shenanigans. He’s impressed by Olivia’s handling of his children and how peaceful his home has become as a result.
But rumor is threatening to ruin Olivia’s good name, people are determined to think the worst of her for being a nanny, so she either has to lose her job or accept Eli’s offer of marriage of convenience. Olivia is torn. She doesn’t want to be a burden on her family, but she also wants love. When the railroad plans to come to town, Olivia is forced to make more difficult choices for her family’s welfare.
FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS is the first book I’ve ever read by Ms. Aiken and the first book in her Women of Hope series. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Olivia and Eli. This book is kind of a cross between The Sound of Music and the biblical story of Esther. It is an engaging tale of a nanny struggling to find her way in another’s home, and a man struggling to better his town, his job, and his home.
If you are looking for a good historical, then FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS is a book to consider. It is a winner. The second book in the series is releasing in 2013 Remember Me When. $13.99. 384 pages.
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