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Saddler's Legacy #2
Sweeter Than Birdsong
"Music offers Kate sweet refuge from her troubles . . . but real freedom is sweeter."
In Westerville, Ohio, 1855, " "Kate Winter's dreams are almost within reach. As the first woman to graduate from Otterbein College, she'll be guaranteed her deepest wish: escape from the dark secret haunting her family. But with her mother determined to marry her off to a wealthy man, Kate must face reality. She has to run. Now. And she has the perfect plan. Join the upcoming musical performance-and use it to mask her flight.
Ben Hanby, Otterbein College's musical genius, sees Kate Winter as an enigmatic creature, notable for her beauty, yet painfully shy. Then he hears her sing-and the glory of her voice moves him as never before. He determines to cast her in his musical and uncover the mystery that is Kate. Still, he must keep his own secret to himself. Not even this intriguing woman can know that his passionate faith is driving him to aid fugitives on the Underground Railroad.
A terrifying accident brings Kate and Ben together, but threatens to shatter both their secrets and their dreams. Kate can no longer deny the need to find her courage-and her voice-if she is to sing a new song for their future.
A stirring novel of hope and faith inspired by real events-from the author of "Fairer than Morning," winner of the 2011 Laurel Award.
In Westerville, Ohio, 1855, " "Kate Winter's dreams are almost within reach. As the first woman to graduate from Otterbein College, she'll be guaranteed her deepest wish: escape from the dark secret haunting her family. But with her mother determined to marry her off to a wealthy man, Kate must face reality. She has to run. Now. And she has the perfect plan. Join the upcoming musical performance-and use it to mask her flight.
Ben Hanby, Otterbein College's musical genius, sees Kate Winter as an enigmatic creature, notable for her beauty, yet painfully shy. Then he hears her sing-and the glory of her voice moves him as never before. He determines to cast her in his musical and uncover the mystery that is Kate. Still, he must keep his own secret to himself. Not even this intriguing woman can know that his passionate faith is driving him to aid fugitives on the Underground Railroad.
A terrifying accident brings Kate and Ben together, but threatens to shatter both their secrets and their dreams. Kate can no longer deny the need to find her courage-and her voice-if she is to sing a new song for their future.
A stirring novel of hope and faith inspired by real events-from the author of "Fairer than Morning," winner of the 2011 Laurel Award.
531 pages, Hardcover
First published February 7, 2012
23 people are currently reading
989 people want to read
About the author
Rosslyn Elliott
9 books93 followersRosslyn Elliott is a professional writer, researcher, and editor. Her chief joys include learning new things, getting past small talk to the real human being beneath, and writing pieces that move others to laugh, think, or just feel better. She believes in peace, dignity and opportunity for all people. Rosslyn works in many kinds of writing, including novels, journalistic features, copywriting, academic writing, stage plays, audio and video scripts, white papers, corporate communications, and more. Her novels have won awards and critical acclaim for their writing quality and depth of research. Rosslyn is an accomplished public speaker who has often performed her own work and the work of others onstage.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
February 20, 2012
Gobsmackingly good! LOL, how's that for an endorsement? One of the things I appreciated the most is Elliott's attention to historical detail. The whole book is seeped in history, but it doesn't bog the reader down. I especially enjoyed the references to the social niceties of the day. Useful bits of information like a lady making sure she stands four feet away from a gentleman for propriety's sake. It felt like I had been swept back in time! Love that feeling of complete escape!
Kate's struggle to overcome her shyness is heart-breaking and Ben's empathy is so endearing! Together, the two already make an enthralling read but then Elliott throws in a riveting plot riddled with action and angst and emotional turmoil! Oh, my poor reader's heart! Let's just say I wept at the end. Great, big, heaving sobs.
This is the kind of book that makes you feel and think and ponder long after you've finished the last page. The fact that it is based on real people and events makes it all the more compelling. Move this on to the top of your TBR pile!
Kate's struggle to overcome her shyness is heart-breaking and Ben's empathy is so endearing! Together, the two already make an enthralling read but then Elliott throws in a riveting plot riddled with action and angst and emotional turmoil! Oh, my poor reader's heart! Let's just say I wept at the end. Great, big, heaving sobs.
This is the kind of book that makes you feel and think and ponder long after you've finished the last page. The fact that it is based on real people and events makes it all the more compelling. Move this on to the top of your TBR pile!
did-not-finish
July 20, 2018 This is a mini ‘Books For Christian Girls’ review. It is not a full content review and will not receive one. These mini-reviews are years old and just for clarity on the rating the book received on Goodreads.
5/4/2015-
"Stopped at page 179 due to the bounty hunter parts. I found them to personally be too much and do not want to continue."
*Main Content-
Kate's father gets drunk and pulls her mother and sister's hair (semi-detailed); Blood (semi-detailed); Many mentions of slavery, slaves being beaten, & bounty hunters abusing those they capture.
5/4/2015-
"Stopped at page 179 due to the bounty hunter parts. I found them to personally be too much and do not want to continue."
*Main Content-
Kate's father gets drunk and pulls her mother and sister's hair (semi-detailed); Blood (semi-detailed); Many mentions of slavery, slaves being beaten, & bounty hunters abusing those they capture.
December 30, 2012
More like 4.5 stars...
Sweeter than Birdsong had it's enjoyable moments, and there were even a few times when I was downright enthralled and didn't want to do anything but read this book. On the flip side, there were a few spots where I found myself skimming, but overall I thought the book was well-written and inspiring. I even liked it enough to put the first book in the series on my "hope to read" list, which is something I don't do often. I loved Ben's character and the adventure his family had as part of their ministry to the Underground Railroad and abolition movement.
What spoke to my heart most in this novel was the passion that the characters had for abolition and the desire to put their own welfare at risk to save someone else. A few times I was afraid right along with them as they tried to help slaves escape to freedom, and that scene with Frank when he cried over his wife broke my heart. The description was so well-done I could hear his grief. I had a hard time liking Kate's family at all, but they did find a place in my heart at the end. Ben's family was great all along and such an encouragement to him. They seemed to be the kind of family most people wished they had.
The romantic elements in the story were interesting. I liked how Kate was portrayed as extremely shy, which makes her overcoming the fear of speaking more powerful when it finally happens. At first I could not see the appeal of why Ben would continue to pursue Kate even though they bonded during that one risky mission. But she avoided him in obedience to her mother's wishes. I wanted to say, "scrap what your mother wants and do what you want, you're an adult" but then realized the constraints at the time made that difficult to do. I understood her mother's motivation to keep her from marrying what she perceived as the "wrong man" for her future.
The one thing that struck me about this story was how even the littlest of touches, like a quick brush of the hands, could be sensual if that was the only contact you had with the opposite sex that you happened to be very attracted to. Simple things took on a lot more meaning. That was well done. I thought the author did a great job trying to build the romantic tension. The letters really added to the story. All in all, a good read. I enjoyed this author's style and will probably read her books again.
Sweeter than Birdsong had it's enjoyable moments, and there were even a few times when I was downright enthralled and didn't want to do anything but read this book. On the flip side, there were a few spots where I found myself skimming, but overall I thought the book was well-written and inspiring. I even liked it enough to put the first book in the series on my "hope to read" list, which is something I don't do often. I loved Ben's character and the adventure his family had as part of their ministry to the Underground Railroad and abolition movement.
What spoke to my heart most in this novel was the passion that the characters had for abolition and the desire to put their own welfare at risk to save someone else. A few times I was afraid right along with them as they tried to help slaves escape to freedom, and that scene with Frank when he cried over his wife broke my heart. The description was so well-done I could hear his grief. I had a hard time liking Kate's family at all, but they did find a place in my heart at the end. Ben's family was great all along and such an encouragement to him. They seemed to be the kind of family most people wished they had.
The romantic elements in the story were interesting. I liked how Kate was portrayed as extremely shy, which makes her overcoming the fear of speaking more powerful when it finally happens. At first I could not see the appeal of why Ben would continue to pursue Kate even though they bonded during that one risky mission. But she avoided him in obedience to her mother's wishes. I wanted to say, "scrap what your mother wants and do what you want, you're an adult" but then realized the constraints at the time made that difficult to do. I understood her mother's motivation to keep her from marrying what she perceived as the "wrong man" for her future.
The one thing that struck me about this story was how even the littlest of touches, like a quick brush of the hands, could be sensual if that was the only contact you had with the opposite sex that you happened to be very attracted to. Simple things took on a lot more meaning. That was well done. I thought the author did a great job trying to build the romantic tension. The letters really added to the story. All in all, a good read. I enjoyed this author's style and will probably read her books again.
February 9, 2012
“Sweeter than Birdsong” weaves emotions, our nation’s greatest tragedy and characters that long to stand up for what’s right.
I think I felt the most connection with Kate. Though I have never been one to struggle with being shy or afraid to speak publically, I can understand that debilitating fear that can take over you. Her gentle growth through the story was absolutely perfect and I had to cheer when she stood up for something she believed in and was passionate about.
The fact that the novel is based on real characters and things that actually happened, made Ben seem larger than life on the page. Be sure and read the historical footnote at the end of the novel. It gives such an appreciation for all they did in their lifetime.
The pre Civil War era is one of my favorites. Helping slaves escape to freedom, fighting for what’s right, valiance and despair. Hope and romance. There is little bit of everything wrapped up in this novel.
If I were to compare the first and second novels in the series, then I still prefer the first of the two. At times the plot seemed a bit languid, but when you step back and look at the story I could only appreciate the tapestry and layers spread the entire book.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my advance copy to review for Litfuse.
I think I felt the most connection with Kate. Though I have never been one to struggle with being shy or afraid to speak publically, I can understand that debilitating fear that can take over you. Her gentle growth through the story was absolutely perfect and I had to cheer when she stood up for something she believed in and was passionate about.
The fact that the novel is based on real characters and things that actually happened, made Ben seem larger than life on the page. Be sure and read the historical footnote at the end of the novel. It gives such an appreciation for all they did in their lifetime.
The pre Civil War era is one of my favorites. Helping slaves escape to freedom, fighting for what’s right, valiance and despair. Hope and romance. There is little bit of everything wrapped up in this novel.
If I were to compare the first and second novels in the series, then I still prefer the first of the two. At times the plot seemed a bit languid, but when you step back and look at the story I could only appreciate the tapestry and layers spread the entire book.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my advance copy to review for Litfuse.
January 24, 2012
Great book! Check out my review here: http://writingchristiannovels.blogspo...
August 5, 2012
Last year I read Fairer Than Morning and liked it so I was excited to give the second book a try. This time we jump ahead to 1855 in Ohio with the protagonists of that book still playing an important role in anti-slavery efforts including aiding fugitive slaves in defiance of the Fugitive Slave Act and writing an anti-slavery song that ends up being compared to Uncle Tom's Cabin in terms of impact. So it's pretty exciting for a history nerd to read about these events on the brink of the Civil War (including several characters predicting that the country can't hold).
My big disappointment with Fairer Than Morning was expecting more of a romance than I got. I only remembered that when I reread my review so I didn't really have expectations when reading this book. Happily I thought there was a bit more romance although it was definitely of a slow-burning quiet kind as both participants need to conduct themselves by the codes of society. What we got was very sweet and made me very happy :)
The male is Ben Hanby, son of Fairer Than Morning's love story, musical genius, and committed to a future in the clergy. The only thing dissuading him from that potential future is the lovely Kate Winter, one of the first female students at Otterbein College, whose society mama has higher expectations than a future pastor. Kate's shyness and awful family life, meanwhile, have her plotting escape until an encounter with a runaway slave jolts her from her plans.
I did think there could have been more about Kate's family life. Her father's a drunk, her mother regrets her decision to leave Philadelphia society, and her younger sister has been emotionally scarred by their toxic home but while the mother's thoughts and feelings are partially explained, the other two are not really talked about. Since Kate's home is so formative to her character, I think it would have been good to have more insight into it.
I thought the historical elements were very well done. I'm not too familiar with the time period but the way that slavery was woven into the story was fantastic. Some of the most exciting and tense passages revolved around fugitives and the simmering conflict among Americans is well-emphasized. I thought the Christian aspect was also well-done. I would definitely not describe it as preachy but instead it was very well-incorporated and sprang organically from the characters themselves.
Overall: An intense historical read about a time period that doesn't always get much attention.
Cover: Hmm, I don't know. I like the hoop skirt (crinolines get a good shout-out in the book) but it doesn't entirely click for me. It's not bad but it's not great to me.
My big disappointment with Fairer Than Morning was expecting more of a romance than I got. I only remembered that when I reread my review so I didn't really have expectations when reading this book. Happily I thought there was a bit more romance although it was definitely of a slow-burning quiet kind as both participants need to conduct themselves by the codes of society. What we got was very sweet and made me very happy :)
The male is Ben Hanby, son of Fairer Than Morning's love story, musical genius, and committed to a future in the clergy. The only thing dissuading him from that potential future is the lovely Kate Winter, one of the first female students at Otterbein College, whose society mama has higher expectations than a future pastor. Kate's shyness and awful family life, meanwhile, have her plotting escape until an encounter with a runaway slave jolts her from her plans.
I did think there could have been more about Kate's family life. Her father's a drunk, her mother regrets her decision to leave Philadelphia society, and her younger sister has been emotionally scarred by their toxic home but while the mother's thoughts and feelings are partially explained, the other two are not really talked about. Since Kate's home is so formative to her character, I think it would have been good to have more insight into it.
I thought the historical elements were very well done. I'm not too familiar with the time period but the way that slavery was woven into the story was fantastic. Some of the most exciting and tense passages revolved around fugitives and the simmering conflict among Americans is well-emphasized. I thought the Christian aspect was also well-done. I would definitely not describe it as preachy but instead it was very well-incorporated and sprang organically from the characters themselves.
Overall: An intense historical read about a time period that doesn't always get much attention.
Cover: Hmm, I don't know. I like the hoop skirt (crinolines get a good shout-out in the book) but it doesn't entirely click for me. It's not bad but it's not great to me.
dnf
February 27, 2012The bulk of reviews are in for this new release to a fairly new author and the opinions are high! The cover is the first thing that grips me for this novel as it tells so much a story on it's own. Interestingly the heroine in this novel has a different personality than I find myself used to in reading Christian Historical settings, but it's intriguing. Part of it is odd to me, because by the descriptions it seems as if she has always had the anxiety disorder, but is only recently trying to overcome it but... for her to have gotten to her current age and progressed as far as she has at the college wouldn't she have had to overcome some of her shyness and anxiety before hand? That just threw me a bit - however her reasons for being so are definitely one that would affect a person's personality!
Throughout every page I can tell that this one is well researched. The descriptions really allow your imagination to fly back in time. All the characters and their issues are real and rough and show through to a reality once known and in someways still there. This is a great release for a February!
*Thanks to Thomas Nelson and Litfuse Publicity Group for providing an ARC for review.*
posted: http://wp.me/pYHD5-37p
Throughout every page I can tell that this one is well researched. The descriptions really allow your imagination to fly back in time. All the characters and their issues are real and rough and show through to a reality once known and in someways still there. This is a great release for a February!
*Thanks to Thomas Nelson and Litfuse Publicity Group for providing an ARC for review.*
posted: http://wp.me/pYHD5-37p
October 25, 2016
I did not know when I first starting reading this novel that the story was true. My first reading by this author, I enjoyed her writing and language from the start. The story had good layering and interesting characters. I will look for this author again and hope to read more of her stories. As a born Southerner, I will always have interest in matters of the Civil War, slavery, along with compassion and truth.
December 8, 2012
Grab the tissues! Rosslyn Elliott's sophomore effort is as enthralling as her debut, and even more poignant. The seamless blend of fact and fiction in these historical novels is dazzling, and perfectly brings to light the real-life struggles of the Hanby family.
December 22, 2021
This is not my usual type of novel, but I picked it up because I wanted something light and easy to read. It was indeed a quick read, and was an interesting series of events.
I had to suspend disbelief in a few places, as some of the events seemed contrived just for the sake of either creating necessary conflict in the novel, or conversely, to suddenly resolve problems. Although I liked the way it ended (it's a romance novel, after all!), I felt that it ended quite abruptly, with some major plot lines still unfinished. I would have expected this novel to be at least a third longer, given where the plot was at when the novel ended.
I also felt like some of the little details in the story were off. For example, Ben (a non-violinist) having to tune his sister Amanda's violin for her, even though Amanda is clearly a very accomplished violinist, if she can pull off the spontaneous transposition that is described right after that.
Overall, this book was enjoyable enough, though I'm not sure I would go out of my way to continue with the series.
I had to suspend disbelief in a few places, as some of the events seemed contrived just for the sake of either creating necessary conflict in the novel, or conversely, to suddenly resolve problems. Although I liked the way it ended (it's a romance novel, after all!), I felt that it ended quite abruptly, with some major plot lines still unfinished. I would have expected this novel to be at least a third longer, given where the plot was at when the novel ended.
I also felt like some of the little details in the story were off. For example, Ben (a non-violinist) having to tune his sister Amanda's violin for her, even though Amanda is clearly a very accomplished violinist, if she can pull off the spontaneous transposition that is described right after that.
Overall, this book was enjoyable enough, though I'm not sure I would go out of my way to continue with the series.
August 11, 2017
Kate is a young woman in love with a man her mother disapproves of. She tries to continue seeing this man, even though it's against her mother.
Ben comes into Kate's life as a potential suitor her mother disapproves. At first, Kate is very angry at her mother. As she and Ben get to know each other, Kate starts to fall in love with him. This makes her mother mad, and tries to separate the two.
I disliked Kate's mother the most because of the way she treated Ben. I tyhink she judged him a little too much in the book.
Good book!!!
Ben comes into Kate's life as a potential suitor her mother disapproves. At first, Kate is very angry at her mother. As she and Ben get to know each other, Kate starts to fall in love with him. This makes her mother mad, and tries to separate the two.
I disliked Kate's mother the most because of the way she treated Ben. I tyhink she judged him a little too much in the book.
Good book!!!
December 4, 2017
2 1/2 rounded up to 3 stars.
There is not much romance in this series.. so if that's what you're looking for, this is not the book for you. However, I did find it somewhat interesting historically. I learned a bit more about the underground railroad and the risks these people took for the lives of others. It is a slower read than some like, but I didn't mind that so much since I had to put it down often to do other things... but I can't say that I was bored by it.
There is not much romance in this series.. so if that's what you're looking for, this is not the book for you. However, I did find it somewhat interesting historically. I learned a bit more about the underground railroad and the risks these people took for the lives of others. It is a slower read than some like, but I didn't mind that so much since I had to put it down often to do other things... but I can't say that I was bored by it.
August 8, 2020
I much preferred the 1st book in this series, Fairer Than Morning. The history in the story was excellent, but there were many drawn out sections of the story that took me awhile to get through. I found myself wanted to skip over a few paragraphs, and that’s never a good sign. I will say the ending was very good but abrupt in some ways. I think I will try another novel in a different series by this author.
November 1, 2018
The second book was just as good as the first! It definitely sheds light on the United States during the final decades of slavery. I like that the story is based on real people which leads to more believable and enjoyable historical fiction. Not too lovey dovey but with the romance still there. Definitely would recommend to others!
January 4, 2018
Biblically-based
Elegantly written, this historic fiction takes one to the early days of abolition, without being too burdened with a history lesson. Anyone who enjoys Christian themes, romance, literature, would enjoy this novel.
Elegantly written, this historic fiction takes one to the early days of abolition, without being too burdened with a history lesson. Anyone who enjoys Christian themes, romance, literature, would enjoy this novel.
September 9, 2018
Not as good as the first book, which pulled me into the story from the first chapter. This one dragged with nothing much happening until more than half way through, then seemed to end rather abruptly. I almost didn't finish it and I'm not sure I'll read the next in the series.
March 11, 2020
Excellent historical fiction. I was excited to learn that the characters are real. I want to tell you the details, but I knew nothing going in and it made it fun to discover. It is the second in a series and stands alone, but I want to go back and read the first one.
December 5, 2016
A shy young lady struggles with speaking in public until she meets a young man with a cause. Pre Civil war Ohio.
December 3, 2017
Stopped reading at chapter 18 because I just couldn't get interested in it. I really enjoyed the first book in this series, but this one was difficult to pick up.
December 4, 2017
VERY slow moving. Hard to keep picking up. I did manage to finish by skimming a lot. There is practically no romance in this book or series so far. Don’t think I’m going to bother with the 3rd book.
January 27, 2018
Good, but disagreed with how they portrayed honoring parents on this one I think. At least at this point in my parenting journey :o)
February 14, 2018
I liked this book but hated she changed so much of Kate's family dynamics.
January 27, 2021
4.5 stars
August 8, 2021
Love that these are true stories!
September 25, 2021
I knew nothing of the history of the song My Darling Nelly Gray. This book brought it to life beautifully. A wonderful read.
November 17, 2021
Das Buch ist richtig gut. Die Autorin hat einen sehr angenehmen Schreibstil und das Ende hat Gänsehautgarantie.
December 4, 2023
An historical novel based on more truth than fiction. I had not heard of Ben Hanby, "Darling Nelly Gray" or John Parker, but Rosslyn Parker portrays them as fascinating bits of history.
February 17, 2012
Rosslyn Elliott in her new book, “Sweeter than Birdsong” Book Two in The Saddler’s Legacy published by Thomas Nelson takes us to Ohio in 1855.
From the back cover: Music offers Kate sweet refuge from her troubles . . . but real freedom is sweeter.
In Westerville, Ohio, 1855, Kate Winter’s dreams are almost within reach. As the first woman to graduate from Otterbein College, she’ll be guaranteed her deepest wish: escape from the dark secret haunting her family. But with her mother determined to marry her off to a wealthy man, Kate must face reality. She has to run. Now. And she has the perfect plan. Join the upcoming musical performance-and use it to mask her flight.
Ben Hanby, Otterbein College’s musical genius, sees Kate Winter as an enigmatic creature, notable for her beauty, yet painfully shy. Then he hears her sing-and the glory of her voice moves him as never before. He determines to cast her in his musical and uncover the mystery that is Kate. Still, he must keep his own secret to himself. Not even this intriguing woman can know that his passionate faith is driving him to aid fugitives on the Underground Railroad.
A terrifying accident brings Kate and Ben together, but threatens to shatter both their secrets and their dreams. Kate can no longer deny the need to find her courage-and her voice-if she is to sing a new song for their future.
In “Sweeter than Birdsong” Rosslyn Elliott not only gives us a great romance but a real piece of history. While her work is fiction this book is based on the lives of a real Ben and Kate who went through much of the events depicted in the story. This story has such great themes, slavery, how to do good when evil abounds, true love and how God works His plans even in the midst of great suffering. I like history and any story that has something to do with The Underground Railroad is a winner in my book. On top of all of that “Sweeter than Birdsong” has real life John Parker as one of the characters and you have to read this book to know more about him. I guarantee you will be delighted. This is a wonderful read and I recommend it highly. Looking forward to Book Three in this series from Rosslyn Elliott
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 Christian music please visit our internet radio station http://www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. 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: Music offers Kate sweet refuge from her troubles . . . but real freedom is sweeter.
In Westerville, Ohio, 1855, Kate Winter’s dreams are almost within reach. As the first woman to graduate from Otterbein College, she’ll be guaranteed her deepest wish: escape from the dark secret haunting her family. But with her mother determined to marry her off to a wealthy man, Kate must face reality. She has to run. Now. And she has the perfect plan. Join the upcoming musical performance-and use it to mask her flight.
Ben Hanby, Otterbein College’s musical genius, sees Kate Winter as an enigmatic creature, notable for her beauty, yet painfully shy. Then he hears her sing-and the glory of her voice moves him as never before. He determines to cast her in his musical and uncover the mystery that is Kate. Still, he must keep his own secret to himself. Not even this intriguing woman can know that his passionate faith is driving him to aid fugitives on the Underground Railroad.
A terrifying accident brings Kate and Ben together, but threatens to shatter both their secrets and their dreams. Kate can no longer deny the need to find her courage-and her voice-if she is to sing a new song for their future.
In “Sweeter than Birdsong” Rosslyn Elliott not only gives us a great romance but a real piece of history. While her work is fiction this book is based on the lives of a real Ben and Kate who went through much of the events depicted in the story. This story has such great themes, slavery, how to do good when evil abounds, true love and how God works His plans even in the midst of great suffering. I like history and any story that has something to do with The Underground Railroad is a winner in my book. On top of all of that “Sweeter than Birdsong” has real life John Parker as one of the characters and you have to read this book to know more about him. I guarantee you will be delighted. This is a wonderful read and I recommend it highly. Looking forward to Book Three in this series from Rosslyn Elliott
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 Christian music please visit our internet radio station http://www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. 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.”
July 7, 2012
Sweeter Than Birdsong by Rosslyn Elliott is the second in The Saddler’s Legacy, and is set mainly in Westerville, Ohio 1855. I haven’t read the first book in the series Fairer than Morning (although I would like to), but that didn’t seem to matter, because the author fills the reader in where it is needed.
Kate Winter's dreams of being one of the first women to graduate from Otterbein College, but she thinks this dream is lost when her fear of public speaking causes her to flee the classroom when it is her turn for oration. Another of her dreams is to make a new home for her sister Leah, somewhere safe. A place where their father can’t hurt them, and her mother’s words won’t tear them down.
Kate and Ben are classmates and friends, and at Ben���s request Kate reluctantly joins the musicale that he is producing. When Kate’s friend, Cornelia Lawrence is scheduled to play at Neil House in Columbus, Mrs. Lawrence invites her to join them and the Hanby’s for their trip. Kate decides that this would be a good time to find a place for her and Leah to go. Little did she know that she would be so changed by the trip, as she helps the Hanby’s as they try to lead some slaves toward freedom.
Rosslyn’s writing is powerful, and draws the reader into the story. I loved the way Kate and Ben’s story leapt off the page. The scenes, sounds and characters came alive and also becomes a part of the reader. I will choose to read other books by this author, but look forward to the next book in this series, if there is one, and I hope there is, because I closed the book wanting to read more about Kate and Ben.
This story is based on the true accounts of Kate Winter and Ben Hanby. If you choose to read this book please don’t skip the historical note at the end where you will be able to learn more about these true people from history.
If you like Rosslyn Elliott’s books, and/or historical fiction I am certain you will also like Sweeter Than Birdsong.
I give Sweeter than Birdsong 5 out of 5 stars.
** Sweeter Than Birdsong by Rosslyn Elliott was provided for me free by Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review.
Kate Winter's dreams of being one of the first women to graduate from Otterbein College, but she thinks this dream is lost when her fear of public speaking causes her to flee the classroom when it is her turn for oration. Another of her dreams is to make a new home for her sister Leah, somewhere safe. A place where their father can’t hurt them, and her mother’s words won’t tear them down.
Kate and Ben are classmates and friends, and at Ben���s request Kate reluctantly joins the musicale that he is producing. When Kate’s friend, Cornelia Lawrence is scheduled to play at Neil House in Columbus, Mrs. Lawrence invites her to join them and the Hanby’s for their trip. Kate decides that this would be a good time to find a place for her and Leah to go. Little did she know that she would be so changed by the trip, as she helps the Hanby’s as they try to lead some slaves toward freedom.
Rosslyn’s writing is powerful, and draws the reader into the story. I loved the way Kate and Ben’s story leapt off the page. The scenes, sounds and characters came alive and also becomes a part of the reader. I will choose to read other books by this author, but look forward to the next book in this series, if there is one, and I hope there is, because I closed the book wanting to read more about Kate and Ben.
This story is based on the true accounts of Kate Winter and Ben Hanby. If you choose to read this book please don’t skip the historical note at the end where you will be able to learn more about these true people from history.
If you like Rosslyn Elliott’s books, and/or historical fiction I am certain you will also like Sweeter Than Birdsong.
I give Sweeter than Birdsong 5 out of 5 stars.
** Sweeter Than Birdsong by Rosslyn Elliott was provided for me free by Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review.
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