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Josiah's Treasure
In 1882 Sarah Whittier dreams of opening an art studio run by immigrant women. She plans to use the house left to her by family friend Josiah Cady as collateral for her studio. But will all be lost when the inheritance is challenged by an angry man claiming to be Josiah’s son and legal heir? Rumor of gold nuggets hidden in the house place Sarah’s life in danger. Her future uncertain and her safety threatened, Sarah has nowhere to turn. That is, unless she can soften a vengeful man’s heart – and they both learn that love is finer than any gold.
320 pages, Paperback
First published April 16, 2013
6 people are currently reading
639 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Herriman
13 books189 followersNancy Herriman retired from a career as an engineer to chase around two small children and take up the pen. She hasn’t looked back. When she is not writing, or gabbing over lattes about writing, she is either watching history shows on cable TV or performing with various choral groups. She lives in Ohio with her husband and sons, and wishes there were more hours in the day.
Book 1 in her series 'A Mystery of Old San Francisco' to be released August 2015. 'No Comfort for the Lost' (NAL/Penguin)
Book 1 in her series 'A Mystery of Old San Francisco' to be released August 2015. 'No Comfort for the Lost' (NAL/Penguin)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
August 18, 2021
The time period, location, characters, and tid-bits about art kept this story interesting and an enjoyable historical fiction. I like books where there are strong female characters who don't give up in the face of adversity, this had several. Unfortunately I did not care so much for the male characters in this book, but did like to see the change of heart that occurred. The romance didn't seem all that likely or believable, but I can believe that sometimes connections are made that don't always seem likely to happen, so I can look past that. Faith, forgiveness, perseverance, and second chances are themes in this book.
November 7, 2024
It was an easy read and a good story line.
December 11, 2012
ISBN 978-1-93603-479-6
Release date: April 2013
$14.99 Paperback
Nancy Herriman caught my attention and my heart with her first novel, The Irish Healer. So I highly anticipated her next book which will be released in April 2013. I received an Advance Reader Copy from Worthy Publishing on Ms. Herriman's behalf to facilitate an early reader review.
The story is set in San Francisco of 1882. I have visited San Francisco several times and tried to visualize the scenes as painted in Herriman's word pictures. The hills are there just as they were then and are no less daunting. The bay, the wharf, Chinatown are San Francisco historically and currently and certainly just as fascinating. The timeline of Josiah's Treasure comes on the heel of the gold rush that brought so many to the west. Sarah Whittier is the recipient of gold miner Josiah Cady's estate who died leaving no known heirs. He rewarded Sarah by leaving his estate to her because of her care for him during his dying days. But their more convoluted connection is further revealed as the story progresses.
A claimant appears on the scene challenging the already probated will saying that he and his twin sisters are the children of the deceased Cady and therefore the rightful heirs. As the heir enters the scene, he is angry at Cady for deserting the family years ago and further angered that Cady's "fortune" has gone to Sarah Whittier.
Sarah is a woman of integrity and a gifted artist who desires to establish a business that rescues women who show promise, and an opportunity for them to rise above their status in life to pursue a worthy way of life and provide financially for themselves as well. A noble undertaking on the part of Sarah and virtually impossible without the backing of the funds she received from Cady who was compliant with this worthy goal.
There is a mighty struggle between Daniel and Sarah but as the solution to the dilemma of the proper dispersing of the estate unfolds, a new development occurs as they are attracted to each other. Sarah is also placed in danger because of rumors of gold stashed away in the home. They admire each other for their strengths and character and are drawn emotionally together as well.
The roles of each character are developed by Herriman true to that which they as men and women would have played during the actual historical period. And the plight of women in some situations was very vividly and accurately portrayed.
It was a pleasure to be one of the early reviewers for Nancy Herriman's Josiah's Treasure. I recommend you plan to purchase your copy as soon as they hit the market.
Nancy Herriman's The Irish Healer was runner-up in the historical fiction category of the 2009 ACFW Genesis contest. She is also a past winner of the RWA Daphne du Maurier Award for Best Unpublished Mystery/Romantic Suspense and has been a finalist in other contests. Nancy is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.
Release date: April 2013
$14.99 Paperback
Nancy Herriman caught my attention and my heart with her first novel, The Irish Healer. So I highly anticipated her next book which will be released in April 2013. I received an Advance Reader Copy from Worthy Publishing on Ms. Herriman's behalf to facilitate an early reader review.
The story is set in San Francisco of 1882. I have visited San Francisco several times and tried to visualize the scenes as painted in Herriman's word pictures. The hills are there just as they were then and are no less daunting. The bay, the wharf, Chinatown are San Francisco historically and currently and certainly just as fascinating. The timeline of Josiah's Treasure comes on the heel of the gold rush that brought so many to the west. Sarah Whittier is the recipient of gold miner Josiah Cady's estate who died leaving no known heirs. He rewarded Sarah by leaving his estate to her because of her care for him during his dying days. But their more convoluted connection is further revealed as the story progresses.
A claimant appears on the scene challenging the already probated will saying that he and his twin sisters are the children of the deceased Cady and therefore the rightful heirs. As the heir enters the scene, he is angry at Cady for deserting the family years ago and further angered that Cady's "fortune" has gone to Sarah Whittier.
Sarah is a woman of integrity and a gifted artist who desires to establish a business that rescues women who show promise, and an opportunity for them to rise above their status in life to pursue a worthy way of life and provide financially for themselves as well. A noble undertaking on the part of Sarah and virtually impossible without the backing of the funds she received from Cady who was compliant with this worthy goal.
There is a mighty struggle between Daniel and Sarah but as the solution to the dilemma of the proper dispersing of the estate unfolds, a new development occurs as they are attracted to each other. Sarah is also placed in danger because of rumors of gold stashed away in the home. They admire each other for their strengths and character and are drawn emotionally together as well.
The roles of each character are developed by Herriman true to that which they as men and women would have played during the actual historical period. And the plight of women in some situations was very vividly and accurately portrayed.
It was a pleasure to be one of the early reviewers for Nancy Herriman's Josiah's Treasure. I recommend you plan to purchase your copy as soon as they hit the market.
Nancy Herriman's The Irish Healer was runner-up in the historical fiction category of the 2009 ACFW Genesis contest. She is also a past winner of the RWA Daphne du Maurier Award for Best Unpublished Mystery/Romantic Suspense and has been a finalist in other contests. Nancy is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.
March 14, 2013
When Josiah Cady, a gold prospector who struck it rich, dies, he leaves his estate to his caretaker and companion, Sarah Whittier. He’d taken her in when she had no place else to go, believed in her when she’d lost faith in herself, encouraged and supported her. Sarah dreams of rescuing immigrant women and training them to work in an art studio she hopes to open. She wants to give them a better life, as Josiah had done for her. As Ms. Herriman describes Sarah, “…it was her weakness, taking in stray cats and girls whose need flickered like a flame in the dark, or a man whose tailor-made suit had been worn past its respectable worth.”
Josiah died believing his wife and children had all perished while he’d been living the life of a nomadic prospector. Sarah is stunned when Daniel Cady shows up on her doorstep, claiming to be Josiah’s long lost son and threatening her inheritance. Without it, her hopes will all be destroyed. But Daniel has dreams of his own. He longs to start his own import business and provide a secure home for himself and the sisters he believes Josiah abandoned.
To complicate matters, dangerous rumors swirl among the streets of San Francisco: that Josiah hid a stash of gold nuggets somewhere, possibly in Sarah’s house. There are those who will stop at nothing to steal the treasure for themselves. Josiah’s treasure, and Daniel Cady, could put everything at risk for Sarah—her dreams, her life, and, as her confusing feels for Daniel grow, her heart.
There are so many things to love about this book—the yearning, the romance, the elements of mystery and danger. But what pulled me into the story most is powerful way Ms. Herriman uses the senses to create an almost 3D environment for the reader and immerses the reader in the sights and sounds and scents of San Francisco in 1882. This is a sweet romance, and a story of faith—of finding it, of losing it, of keeping it in the face of all odds. This is also a treasure hunt, where one may learn that the most valuable treasures are not those that can be held in the hand, but those that are held in one’s heart.
I received an advance reading copy of this book for review purposes.
Josiah died believing his wife and children had all perished while he’d been living the life of a nomadic prospector. Sarah is stunned when Daniel Cady shows up on her doorstep, claiming to be Josiah’s long lost son and threatening her inheritance. Without it, her hopes will all be destroyed. But Daniel has dreams of his own. He longs to start his own import business and provide a secure home for himself and the sisters he believes Josiah abandoned.
To complicate matters, dangerous rumors swirl among the streets of San Francisco: that Josiah hid a stash of gold nuggets somewhere, possibly in Sarah’s house. There are those who will stop at nothing to steal the treasure for themselves. Josiah’s treasure, and Daniel Cady, could put everything at risk for Sarah—her dreams, her life, and, as her confusing feels for Daniel grow, her heart.
There are so many things to love about this book—the yearning, the romance, the elements of mystery and danger. But what pulled me into the story most is powerful way Ms. Herriman uses the senses to create an almost 3D environment for the reader and immerses the reader in the sights and sounds and scents of San Francisco in 1882. This is a sweet romance, and a story of faith—of finding it, of losing it, of keeping it in the face of all odds. This is also a treasure hunt, where one may learn that the most valuable treasures are not those that can be held in the hand, but those that are held in one’s heart.
I received an advance reading copy of this book for review purposes.
April 18, 2013
On their anniversary Meg receives a phone call that changed her life drastically. Her husband, Steve, was killed by a drunk driver, a teenager, who is a star athlete and the son of a prominent, high powered Judge. Meg begins to turn into a different woman, she is angry and wants revenge. She makes a plan to destroy this teens life. Hate consumes her and soon everyone avoids her, even those she loves.
This is a difficult book to read, Collins' description of the hatred inside Meg and the treatment she gets from those in the justice system is touching. The issue of drunk driving is a tough one and the way the case was handled with this teen was sad for Meg and himself. There were many times throughout the book I just had to stop and think how awful to be in this situation. Collins is a talented writer, I've read several of his books and loved them all. This is definitely a 5 star book!
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is a difficult book to read, Collins' description of the hatred inside Meg and the treatment she gets from those in the justice system is touching. The issue of drunk driving is a tough one and the way the case was handled with this teen was sad for Meg and himself. There were many times throughout the book I just had to stop and think how awful to be in this situation. Collins is a talented writer, I've read several of his books and loved them all. This is definitely a 5 star book!
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 18, 2012
A great historical fiction by Nancy Herriman. I will be looking more from this author in the future. Highly recommended.
April 16, 2013
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Josiah's Treasure by Nancy Herriman, ©2012
Today is release day for Nancy Herriman's novel, Josiah's Treasure. I read and reviewed her first book, The Irish Healer, and was eager to receive the Advance Reader's Copy of Josiah's Treasure.
In 1882, Sarah Whittier dreams of opening an art studio run by immigrant women. She plans to use the house left to her by family friend Josiah Cady as collateral for her studio. But will all be lost when the inheritance is challenged by an angry man claiming to be Josiah’s son and legal heir? Rumor of gold nuggets hidden in the house, place Sarah’s life in danger. Her future uncertain and her safety threatened, Sarah has nowhere to turn. That is, unless she can soften a vengeful man’s heart–and they both learn that love is finer than any gold.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~
My Review of Josiah's Treasure by Nancy Herriman:
Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth
and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and
steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven...for where
your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
--Matthew 6:19-21
San Francisco, California
June 1882
"In this town, Sarah Jane, a man's worth is calculated in dollars and cents. Measured by what he has to show for himself..."
--Josiah Cady, Josiah's Treasure, 3
And so begins Josiah's Treasure. Sarah Whittier is on her way to secure the lease on the Sansome Street storefront for her design studio, Whittier and Company Custom Design Studio. On her third try and determined outlook, she has met the requirement of backers and receives the keys to this forefront location with perfect lighting and layout for each detailed need for her artists-to-be. Sarah rescues immigrant women from low pay, and equal respect, to enable them to learn a sought-after artistic skill to portray the sites of San Francisco and beyond.
Josiah Cady had communicated his family was no longer living ~ at least they had died to him. Finally, after much searching, his son, Daniel, locates his father's home, only to discover Josiah has died and left his inheritance to his nurse-companion, Sarah Whittier.
Sarah has other things to tend to without this unknown Daniel showing up at her doorstep. Sarah and her girls begin to clear the artist studio with gusto, especially with an Irish lass at hand.
Sarah took up the broom and retrieved her dustpan to work a pile of soot and old dirt into the center of the room. It was good to hear Cora and Phoebe so happy, so full of life. She shouldn't begrudge them any joy, when outside of this shop they had so little. Sarah started humming along to Cora's tune.
"Cora, what is that you are singing?" Lottie asked as she scrubbed smudges from the front window.
"Just a tune my pa is fond of. It's called 'Finnegan's Wake.' It goes like this, Miss Charlotte." Cara cleared her throat while Phoebe stood aside, a delighted look on her face.
--Ibid., 70
Irish Rovers Finnegan's Wake ~
Daniel is seeking to claim the rightful inheritance for himself and his ten-year-old sisters. In ascertaining details to determine his father's wealth, information is spread a little too thin and now has someone else on the search for hidden gold that might be waiting for the taking on the Nob Hill premises.
"I wonder why he thought he wouldn't be spotted by someone. I mean, the sun is hours from setting yet."
"Loony's why."
"He must not have cared if he was seen." Lottie, carrying the tea tray into the room, must have overheard Sarah's question. "Perhaps he is a night laborer and daytime is the only time he has for housebreaking." Dispensing the steaming tea through the strainer, she set a cup in front of Sarah. It rattled against the saucer.
--Ibid., 80
With all of this intrusion by Daniel, Sarah manages to resume her life as usual. Oh a free day, they all take a picnic basket on a streetcar and cable car to Golden Gate Park. And then... Cora decides to topple over into the pond and survey the bottom!
Suddenly, Cora splashed to the surface, her arms churning. She gasped for air. "Help!"
"Cora, I'm coming!"
Cora's head disappeared beneath the water again, the water burbling in her wake. Sarah's heart pounded furiously. Her legs, her feet were numb, but she pushed ahead. She wished she'd spent more time swimming, back in the stream at their farm in Ohio. She might be better prepared to do what needed to be done.
--Ibid., 111
A freezing ride home, indeed!
I am about to determine Josiah's treasure is, for sure, Sarah Whittier! She is golden in her kindness and care of those around her. Will Daniel ever be on the receiving end?
About the Author
Nancy Herriman retired from a career as an engineer to chase around two small children and take up the pen. She hasn't looked back. When she is not writing, or gabbing over lattes about writing, she is either watching history shows on TV or performing with various choral groups. She lives in Ohio with her husband and sons, and wishes there were more hours in the day. Learn more online at nancyherriman.com.
***Thank you to Worthy Publishing for sending me an Advance Reader's Copy of Nancy Herriman's Josiah's Treasure to read and review. No other compensation was received.***
Josiah's Treasure by Nancy Herriman, ©2012
Today is release day for Nancy Herriman's novel, Josiah's Treasure. I read and reviewed her first book, The Irish Healer, and was eager to receive the Advance Reader's Copy of Josiah's Treasure.
In 1882, Sarah Whittier dreams of opening an art studio run by immigrant women. She plans to use the house left to her by family friend Josiah Cady as collateral for her studio. But will all be lost when the inheritance is challenged by an angry man claiming to be Josiah’s son and legal heir? Rumor of gold nuggets hidden in the house, place Sarah’s life in danger. Her future uncertain and her safety threatened, Sarah has nowhere to turn. That is, unless she can soften a vengeful man’s heart–and they both learn that love is finer than any gold.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~
My Review of Josiah's Treasure by Nancy Herriman:
Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth
and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and
steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven...for where
your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
--Matthew 6:19-21
San Francisco, California
June 1882
"In this town, Sarah Jane, a man's worth is calculated in dollars and cents. Measured by what he has to show for himself..."
--Josiah Cady, Josiah's Treasure, 3
And so begins Josiah's Treasure. Sarah Whittier is on her way to secure the lease on the Sansome Street storefront for her design studio, Whittier and Company Custom Design Studio. On her third try and determined outlook, she has met the requirement of backers and receives the keys to this forefront location with perfect lighting and layout for each detailed need for her artists-to-be. Sarah rescues immigrant women from low pay, and equal respect, to enable them to learn a sought-after artistic skill to portray the sites of San Francisco and beyond.
Josiah Cady had communicated his family was no longer living ~ at least they had died to him. Finally, after much searching, his son, Daniel, locates his father's home, only to discover Josiah has died and left his inheritance to his nurse-companion, Sarah Whittier.
Sarah has other things to tend to without this unknown Daniel showing up at her doorstep. Sarah and her girls begin to clear the artist studio with gusto, especially with an Irish lass at hand.
Sarah took up the broom and retrieved her dustpan to work a pile of soot and old dirt into the center of the room. It was good to hear Cora and Phoebe so happy, so full of life. She shouldn't begrudge them any joy, when outside of this shop they had so little. Sarah started humming along to Cora's tune.
"Cora, what is that you are singing?" Lottie asked as she scrubbed smudges from the front window.
"Just a tune my pa is fond of. It's called 'Finnegan's Wake.' It goes like this, Miss Charlotte." Cara cleared her throat while Phoebe stood aside, a delighted look on her face.
--Ibid., 70
Irish Rovers Finnegan's Wake ~
Daniel is seeking to claim the rightful inheritance for himself and his ten-year-old sisters. In ascertaining details to determine his father's wealth, information is spread a little too thin and now has someone else on the search for hidden gold that might be waiting for the taking on the Nob Hill premises.
"I wonder why he thought he wouldn't be spotted by someone. I mean, the sun is hours from setting yet."
"Loony's why."
"He must not have cared if he was seen." Lottie, carrying the tea tray into the room, must have overheard Sarah's question. "Perhaps he is a night laborer and daytime is the only time he has for housebreaking." Dispensing the steaming tea through the strainer, she set a cup in front of Sarah. It rattled against the saucer.
--Ibid., 80
With all of this intrusion by Daniel, Sarah manages to resume her life as usual. Oh a free day, they all take a picnic basket on a streetcar and cable car to Golden Gate Park. And then... Cora decides to topple over into the pond and survey the bottom!
Suddenly, Cora splashed to the surface, her arms churning. She gasped for air. "Help!"
"Cora, I'm coming!"
Cora's head disappeared beneath the water again, the water burbling in her wake. Sarah's heart pounded furiously. Her legs, her feet were numb, but she pushed ahead. She wished she'd spent more time swimming, back in the stream at their farm in Ohio. She might be better prepared to do what needed to be done.
--Ibid., 111
A freezing ride home, indeed!
I am about to determine Josiah's treasure is, for sure, Sarah Whittier! She is golden in her kindness and care of those around her. Will Daniel ever be on the receiving end?
About the Author
Nancy Herriman retired from a career as an engineer to chase around two small children and take up the pen. She hasn't looked back. When she is not writing, or gabbing over lattes about writing, she is either watching history shows on TV or performing with various choral groups. She lives in Ohio with her husband and sons, and wishes there were more hours in the day. Learn more online at nancyherriman.com.
***Thank you to Worthy Publishing for sending me an Advance Reader's Copy of Nancy Herriman's Josiah's Treasure to read and review. No other compensation was received.***
October 31, 2017
I really enjoyed reading this book. There were not so many characters that you got lost along the way trying to remember who they were. The storyline keeps the reader involved and interested as one mystery after another develops. I would not hesitate reading another of her books when I want something easy yet mysterious to read.
November 1, 2017
Great book! I hope the author writes another book based on some of the characters in this book. It felt like unfinished business and I would love to know what happened to the woman who went to Seattle and the old boyfriend of the main character.
January 5, 2025
Was a enjoyable read, left you hanging on the possibilities of golden nuggets
November 25, 2014
I won this book for free through the GoodReads Giveaway Program. I want to thank Nancy Herriman and Worthy Publishing for sending me this advanced and signed copy. As I write my review here, I will try not to release any spoilers. I also hope you will pick up a copy of your own to form your own opinions.
Josiah's Treasure was a very easy and enjoyable read! This is definitely the type of story I've recently come to enjoy: historical fiction. I feel it's like my own little simple time machine. Words that simply journey you into the past and place you right in the heart of history/the story.
However, there were some moments I was confused or unsure why the author chose to write/organize the storyline in the fashion it is published.
One main concern/issue were the secrets of Sarah's past; they were kept hidden for so long in this storyline. One hundred pages in and we finally learned the truthful history of how Sarah came to be with Josiah. Then it wasn't until much, much later - almost to the end - that we learned the truth of Sarah's past regarding where she came from, her family, the scandal, etc.
In the beginning, I felt there were too many characters introduced at once. I confused Lottie (who is also Charlotte) with Mrs. McGinnis. I thought Sarah had a young house girl like Ah Mong, the young Chinese boy who helps Sarah's neighbor. But instead Mrs. McGinnis is one character - the housekeeper and Lottie is another character - a friend/business partner with Sarah.
One fact I liked in the beginning was the subtle hint of Sarah's age. She is reviewing a telegraph/note dated 1875. Sarah states that she was 15 in 1875. So I flipped back to the beginning of the book to see that the current storyline is set in 1882 which would bring Sarah to age 22.
Also in the beginning, about a quarter of the way through, I felt comfortable with the organization of the story being told through the point of views of Sarah and Daniel. These point of views occurred within a chapter together flowing in a continuous timeline.
But suddenly someone named Frank entered the mix and threw me off. I would have left his and Anne's point of view sections out of the story completely. It would have been a great hook and shock to the reader in the final chapters of the story when Frank broke back in for the final time. SPOILER: Sarah (and the others) were informed someone was arrested for the previous two break ins, but we know right away they arrested the wrong individual. How shocking would it have been for the reader to learn this truth, the truth of Frank and Anne during the final break in and climax? It would have journeyed us readers though the sights and sounds of Sarah. Reading about Frank's drunken triad, plans, Anne running, escaping etc. was just mindless filler. I understand they were somewhat of a subpart of the storyline, but revealing their parts could have been done so creatively though the point of view of Sarah.
Then we have the character of Edouard Marchand. Throughout the story, I found myself asking 'how did he ruin Sarah's life?' Bits and pieces were revealed here and there - for example he was most likely a lover, boyfriend, fiancé, or husband to Sarah ; he stole gold nuggets from her Uncle. At the end of the story, we read a point of view from him. This was confusing. It sounded like he did okay for awhile with the stolen gold but he's bouncing around from chick-to-chick possibly still wealthy or looking for his next grab-and-go stash. At first I thought this point of view should be removed, but I know myself and other readers would have asked, "what ever did happen to Edouard?" Instead, I would have included this piece as an epilogue.
As for how the story ended, I felt it was a bit of a stretch. I liked how Sarah was able to adjust to the changes that came upon her and still be successful (at least it seemed like she was fairing well). SPOILER ALERT: But 'surprise' Daniel shows up and proposes. Was this common back in the 1880's? I understand marrying daughters off but something this sudden seemed far-fetched to me. Yes, one could assume there was some connection between the Daniel and Sarah but they 'played' hot-and-cold throughout the storyline; marriage didn't seem like it would be that suddenly possible.
Overall, I sincerely did enjoy this story. Yes, part of me wondered if it dragged a little. I think the sub story lines of Frank/Anne then Sarah's past add too much weight leaving me with the dragging feeling. I guess I just really yearned for that hook and the surprises were spoiled having read everything leading up to it. But the story continuously flowed from start to finish. This flow gave it a relaxing, easy read. If you have a rainy day or are cozying up to the fire, this is a perfect read.
Happy Reading!
Production Note: Goodreads lists 320 pages for paperback whereas my paperback edition contains 310 pages.
Josiah's Treasure was a very easy and enjoyable read! This is definitely the type of story I've recently come to enjoy: historical fiction. I feel it's like my own little simple time machine. Words that simply journey you into the past and place you right in the heart of history/the story.
However, there were some moments I was confused or unsure why the author chose to write/organize the storyline in the fashion it is published.
One main concern/issue were the secrets of Sarah's past; they were kept hidden for so long in this storyline. One hundred pages in and we finally learned the truthful history of how Sarah came to be with Josiah. Then it wasn't until much, much later - almost to the end - that we learned the truth of Sarah's past regarding where she came from, her family, the scandal, etc.
In the beginning, I felt there were too many characters introduced at once. I confused Lottie (who is also Charlotte) with Mrs. McGinnis. I thought Sarah had a young house girl like Ah Mong, the young Chinese boy who helps Sarah's neighbor. But instead Mrs. McGinnis is one character - the housekeeper and Lottie is another character - a friend/business partner with Sarah.
One fact I liked in the beginning was the subtle hint of Sarah's age. She is reviewing a telegraph/note dated 1875. Sarah states that she was 15 in 1875. So I flipped back to the beginning of the book to see that the current storyline is set in 1882 which would bring Sarah to age 22.
Also in the beginning, about a quarter of the way through, I felt comfortable with the organization of the story being told through the point of views of Sarah and Daniel. These point of views occurred within a chapter together flowing in a continuous timeline.
But suddenly someone named Frank entered the mix and threw me off. I would have left his and Anne's point of view sections out of the story completely. It would have been a great hook and shock to the reader in the final chapters of the story when Frank broke back in for the final time. SPOILER: Sarah (and the others) were informed someone was arrested for the previous two break ins, but we know right away they arrested the wrong individual. How shocking would it have been for the reader to learn this truth, the truth of Frank and Anne during the final break in and climax? It would have journeyed us readers though the sights and sounds of Sarah. Reading about Frank's drunken triad, plans, Anne running, escaping etc. was just mindless filler. I understand they were somewhat of a subpart of the storyline, but revealing their parts could have been done so creatively though the point of view of Sarah.
Then we have the character of Edouard Marchand. Throughout the story, I found myself asking 'how did he ruin Sarah's life?' Bits and pieces were revealed here and there - for example he was most likely a lover, boyfriend, fiancé, or husband to Sarah ; he stole gold nuggets from her Uncle. At the end of the story, we read a point of view from him. This was confusing. It sounded like he did okay for awhile with the stolen gold but he's bouncing around from chick-to-chick possibly still wealthy or looking for his next grab-and-go stash. At first I thought this point of view should be removed, but I know myself and other readers would have asked, "what ever did happen to Edouard?" Instead, I would have included this piece as an epilogue.
As for how the story ended, I felt it was a bit of a stretch. I liked how Sarah was able to adjust to the changes that came upon her and still be successful (at least it seemed like she was fairing well). SPOILER ALERT: But 'surprise' Daniel shows up and proposes. Was this common back in the 1880's? I understand marrying daughters off but something this sudden seemed far-fetched to me. Yes, one could assume there was some connection between the Daniel and Sarah but they 'played' hot-and-cold throughout the storyline; marriage didn't seem like it would be that suddenly possible.
Overall, I sincerely did enjoy this story. Yes, part of me wondered if it dragged a little. I think the sub story lines of Frank/Anne then Sarah's past add too much weight leaving me with the dragging feeling. I guess I just really yearned for that hook and the surprises were spoiled having read everything leading up to it. But the story continuously flowed from start to finish. This flow gave it a relaxing, easy read. If you have a rainy day or are cozying up to the fire, this is a perfect read.
Happy Reading!
Production Note: Goodreads lists 320 pages for paperback whereas my paperback edition contains 310 pages.
April 14, 2013
"Miss Whittier was intelligent and determined, strong willed and pretty enough...commendable attributes, but one he couldn't afford to admire. He had to remember that she was not be trusted until his lawyer had finished reviewing the particulars of Josiah's estate. Not if he wanted to keep a cool head around her.
Not if he wanted to keep himself from caring.
"I came her to fetch what Josiah owed me and my sisters," he said plainly, truthfully, "not to ruin a young woman's future."
"You might succeed in doing both."
He slapped his hat against his thigh, fanning an eddy of dust across the floor. "Listen, I'm not out to hurt you. But I can't go back on the promises I've made, any more than you can go back on yours. You believe your girls need you. My sisters need me."
"Do you honestly think we can fulfill both our promises, Mr. Cady?"
"You have your backers," he pointed out.
"Anxious men whose charitable impulses read well in the newspaper but don't always hold up under pressure." She wasn't naive in the least.
Daniel stilled the nervous motion of his hands. Pretty young women like Sarah shouldn't be so cynical or worldly-wise. They should be sheltered and supported, what he'd spent half a lifetime doing for his sisters, trying to keep them from suffering the worst of the damage Josiah had caused. He didn't have to learn much about Sarah Whittier to realize that, even though she'd worked for Josiah in that comfortable house, she'd had to scrape and claw to be where she was today. Just like he had, making them two of a kind. An uncomfortable recognition.
"What do you want from me?" he asked.
"I didn't bring you here to impress you with my empty shop and its filthy floors." She pulled in a long breath. "I brought you here because, if you succeed in gaining Josiah's estate, I want you to invest in the studio. I would pay you back, with interest."
"I can't do that." Even if he wanted to help Sarah Whittier, for the sake of Lily's and Marguerite's futures, he couldn't.
Sarah gave him a withering look and retrieved her reticule from the countertop where she left it. Apparently she had let herself hope for more from him.
"You were right." Her eyes were deep brown, the color of cocoa or polished walnut. Lovely even when dull with disillusionment. "I did waste my time."
In the novel Josiah's Treasure by author Nancy Herriman, the reader is transported back to San Francisco in 1882. Here we find ourselves at a crossroads with Sarah Whittier and Daniel Cady. Two strong and yet opposing forces that each have a dream that they are trying to build and fulfill. With Sarah, she had been Josiah's nurse and caretaker until his death, leaving her all his wealthy and estate. She now plans on using some of that money to help build an art business to employ several immigrant women and help them get ahead in life by teaching them valuable life skills instead of selling themselves down on the Barbary alley.
Daniel arrives literally at Sarah's doorstep, claiming to be Josiah's long long son and perceived heir to his estate. He refuses to let himself care for Sarah or her desire to help other women less fortunate than herself find better lives. Until he can provide proof of his identity, both of them remain at odds. Daniel will do whatever it takes to provide for his sisters what he feels his father had promised them long ago when he left them behind. He can't believe that Josiah never revealed to Sarah that he had children, and now believes that there may in fact be a treasure buried in the house that his father hid when he stuck gold in coming to California. Now if he can only convince his heart to follow his head.
I received Josiah's Treasure by author Nancy Herriman compliments of Worthy Publishing and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. This is such a charming book taking into account the rise to wealthy by those that struck it rich during California's famed gold rush. I love the strength that Nancy breathed into the character of Sarah, a perseverance to keep pushing through despite the odds against her by the men of that time period. I love how she is willing to try anything to give her dream wings and hopes in some way she can convince Daniel to help. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and loved the historical look back at the early growth of San Francisco during the setting of this novel with the cable cars and Nob Hill as the backdrop. I will be looking for more books from Nancy Herriman in the future to enjoy and add to my library of favorites. This one has found a permanent home.
Not if he wanted to keep himself from caring.
"I came her to fetch what Josiah owed me and my sisters," he said plainly, truthfully, "not to ruin a young woman's future."
"You might succeed in doing both."
He slapped his hat against his thigh, fanning an eddy of dust across the floor. "Listen, I'm not out to hurt you. But I can't go back on the promises I've made, any more than you can go back on yours. You believe your girls need you. My sisters need me."
"Do you honestly think we can fulfill both our promises, Mr. Cady?"
"You have your backers," he pointed out.
"Anxious men whose charitable impulses read well in the newspaper but don't always hold up under pressure." She wasn't naive in the least.
Daniel stilled the nervous motion of his hands. Pretty young women like Sarah shouldn't be so cynical or worldly-wise. They should be sheltered and supported, what he'd spent half a lifetime doing for his sisters, trying to keep them from suffering the worst of the damage Josiah had caused. He didn't have to learn much about Sarah Whittier to realize that, even though she'd worked for Josiah in that comfortable house, she'd had to scrape and claw to be where she was today. Just like he had, making them two of a kind. An uncomfortable recognition.
"What do you want from me?" he asked.
"I didn't bring you here to impress you with my empty shop and its filthy floors." She pulled in a long breath. "I brought you here because, if you succeed in gaining Josiah's estate, I want you to invest in the studio. I would pay you back, with interest."
"I can't do that." Even if he wanted to help Sarah Whittier, for the sake of Lily's and Marguerite's futures, he couldn't.
Sarah gave him a withering look and retrieved her reticule from the countertop where she left it. Apparently she had let herself hope for more from him.
"You were right." Her eyes were deep brown, the color of cocoa or polished walnut. Lovely even when dull with disillusionment. "I did waste my time."
In the novel Josiah's Treasure by author Nancy Herriman, the reader is transported back to San Francisco in 1882. Here we find ourselves at a crossroads with Sarah Whittier and Daniel Cady. Two strong and yet opposing forces that each have a dream that they are trying to build and fulfill. With Sarah, she had been Josiah's nurse and caretaker until his death, leaving her all his wealthy and estate. She now plans on using some of that money to help build an art business to employ several immigrant women and help them get ahead in life by teaching them valuable life skills instead of selling themselves down on the Barbary alley.
Daniel arrives literally at Sarah's doorstep, claiming to be Josiah's long long son and perceived heir to his estate. He refuses to let himself care for Sarah or her desire to help other women less fortunate than herself find better lives. Until he can provide proof of his identity, both of them remain at odds. Daniel will do whatever it takes to provide for his sisters what he feels his father had promised them long ago when he left them behind. He can't believe that Josiah never revealed to Sarah that he had children, and now believes that there may in fact be a treasure buried in the house that his father hid when he stuck gold in coming to California. Now if he can only convince his heart to follow his head.
I received Josiah's Treasure by author Nancy Herriman compliments of Worthy Publishing and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. This is such a charming book taking into account the rise to wealthy by those that struck it rich during California's famed gold rush. I love the strength that Nancy breathed into the character of Sarah, a perseverance to keep pushing through despite the odds against her by the men of that time period. I love how she is willing to try anything to give her dream wings and hopes in some way she can convince Daniel to help. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and loved the historical look back at the early growth of San Francisco during the setting of this novel with the cable cars and Nob Hill as the backdrop. I will be looking for more books from Nancy Herriman in the future to enjoy and add to my library of favorites. This one has found a permanent home.
June 11, 2013
Nancy Herriman in her new book, “Josiah’s Treasure” published by Worthy Publishing brings us into the lives of Sarah Whittier and Daniel Cady.
From the back cover: in 1880′s San Francisco, Gold builds fortunes. And sometimes shatters dreams.
Daniel Cady has been searching for the father who struck it rich out West and never returned to his family. Daniel isn’t looking for the man’s love, and he’s not offering forgiveness. All he wants is cold retribution. In the form of cash.
Years ago, a scandalous love affair ostracized artist Sarah Whittier from her family. In San Francisco, she has built a new life out of audacity, talent and an old man’s generosity. The house Josiah Cade left her is about all she owns. A house that is collateral for her dearest aspiration– a custom art studio run by immigrant women. They’re her family now, and she’ll do whatever it takes for them to succeed.
But when Daniel Cady arrives in town claiming he’s the legal heir, Sarah faces eviction…and the resurrection of dangerous rumors that the house contains hidden gold. Her future uncertain and her safety threatened, Sarah has nowhere to turn. Unless she can soften a vengeful man’s heart, and they both learn that love is a greater treasure than gold.
All Sarah wants to do is put her past behind her and succeed for her success guarantees the success of the immigrant women that have become her family since her own family wants no part of her. Daniel Cady is looking for his father who abandoned him and the rest of the family to go West to look for gold. All Daniel wants is a part of that gold as recompense for what his father took from him. Now Sarah and Daniel are clashing over the one thing that belonged to Josiah and that both of them want, his house. “Josiah’s Treasure” is all about family, the one we are born into and the one we make for ourselves in the world. This is about pain from our past that is causing us to make our present decisions and how healing of that pain can cause us to make new decisions. It is also a wonderful romance. Ms. Herriman has done an outstanding job of bringing Sarah and Daniel to life on these pages. We root for them to overcome their traumas and for their relationship to succeed. If you are looking for history you will find it here. If you are looking for a really good romance you will find it here. I liked this book and am really looking forward to more stories from Nancy Herriman.
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 for free from Wynn-Wynn Media for this review. 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: in 1880′s San Francisco, Gold builds fortunes. And sometimes shatters dreams.
Daniel Cady has been searching for the father who struck it rich out West and never returned to his family. Daniel isn’t looking for the man’s love, and he’s not offering forgiveness. All he wants is cold retribution. In the form of cash.
Years ago, a scandalous love affair ostracized artist Sarah Whittier from her family. In San Francisco, she has built a new life out of audacity, talent and an old man’s generosity. The house Josiah Cade left her is about all she owns. A house that is collateral for her dearest aspiration– a custom art studio run by immigrant women. They’re her family now, and she’ll do whatever it takes for them to succeed.
But when Daniel Cady arrives in town claiming he’s the legal heir, Sarah faces eviction…and the resurrection of dangerous rumors that the house contains hidden gold. Her future uncertain and her safety threatened, Sarah has nowhere to turn. Unless she can soften a vengeful man’s heart, and they both learn that love is a greater treasure than gold.
All Sarah wants to do is put her past behind her and succeed for her success guarantees the success of the immigrant women that have become her family since her own family wants no part of her. Daniel Cady is looking for his father who abandoned him and the rest of the family to go West to look for gold. All Daniel wants is a part of that gold as recompense for what his father took from him. Now Sarah and Daniel are clashing over the one thing that belonged to Josiah and that both of them want, his house. “Josiah’s Treasure” is all about family, the one we are born into and the one we make for ourselves in the world. This is about pain from our past that is causing us to make our present decisions and how healing of that pain can cause us to make new decisions. It is also a wonderful romance. Ms. Herriman has done an outstanding job of bringing Sarah and Daniel to life on these pages. We root for them to overcome their traumas and for their relationship to succeed. If you are looking for history you will find it here. If you are looking for a really good romance you will find it here. I liked this book and am really looking forward to more stories from Nancy Herriman.
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 for free from Wynn-Wynn Media for this review. 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.”
April 24, 2013
Josiah’s Treasure by Nancy Herriman was a most enjoyable historical novel that was also filled with a great deal of inspiration. In San Francisco in 1882, Sarah Whittier has a desire to open an art studio that will be run by immigrant women who have a talent for art or a talent for running the business. She has been the caretaker and companion of Josiah Cady who amassed a fortune in the gold fields and at his death he left everything to Sarah. Josiah rescued Sarah from her past and loved her like a daughter and he left everything to her for he thought that all his family was dead and he died never knowing the truth. Daniel Cady, Josiah’s son, finally arrived in San Francisco from Chicago after a lengthy search to find his father. He thinks that his father deserted the family and is determined to take the inheritance from Sarah. Daniel is very bitter toward his father but when the truth is finally revealed as to why Josiah left his fortune to Sarah instead of his family, he decides that he must help Sarah and try to keep her safe after rumors circulate in the town that gold nuggets are hidden in the house. Daniel knows that overturning his father’s will is going to be difficult, but after meeting Sarah his heart is torn between caring for his twin sisters and the attraction he is starting to feel for Sarah.
The author did an excellent job writing the story with a well plotted mystery and lots of exciting action. The characters were so well done that they seemed to leap off the page and become real. I thoroughly enjoyed the romance in the story as the author took us on a journey of faith for both Sarah and Daniel. Both had fought to find faith and then worked to keep it and not lose it when troubles came. In their search for the hidden gold, they both found that the greatest treasure to be found in life was love. The story was very inspiration and gave me something to think about after the story was finished.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes an historical novel set in the West in the nineteenth century, has a really good romance story line, a great deal of mystery, and that is also a Christian story.
I received this book free from Worthy Publishing and Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
The author did an excellent job writing the story with a well plotted mystery and lots of exciting action. The characters were so well done that they seemed to leap off the page and become real. I thoroughly enjoyed the romance in the story as the author took us on a journey of faith for both Sarah and Daniel. Both had fought to find faith and then worked to keep it and not lose it when troubles came. In their search for the hidden gold, they both found that the greatest treasure to be found in life was love. The story was very inspiration and gave me something to think about after the story was finished.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes an historical novel set in the West in the nineteenth century, has a really good romance story line, a great deal of mystery, and that is also a Christian story.
I received this book free from Worthy Publishing and Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
January 17, 2016
tAuthor: Nancy Herriman
Published by: Worthy Publisher
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 5
Review:
"Josiah's Treasure" by Nancy Herriman was a historical, romance, inspirational with a little mystery all rolled up into one good read taking place in San Francisco, 1882. You will find "Josiah's Treasure" filled will a journey of "secrets, faith, deception, betrayal, hope and love." In this read we find that Sarah Whittier(who had been a nurse companion to Josiah Cady) has been left a inheritance, but before she could claim it, Daniel Cady shows up claiming to be Josiah's son. Josiah Cady thought that his family had died. What will become of all of this? We will find that Daniel even with 'his vengeful heart' he will try to save Sarah...there was a rumor that Sarah has a treasure chest full of gold nuggets. Was there gold nuggets in Nob Hill?
Sarah had "dreams of having a art studio run by immigrant women and she had planed to use the house left to her family friend Joshia Cady as collateral for her studio." Now, what was going to happen now that Josiah's son as returned as the legal heir along with his ten year old twin sisters. Will Daniel be able to get this treasure for his sisters?
There will be many questions that will need to be answered in this read...like... "Was Josiah a father who left a wife and children behind to search for gold? Was Sarah’s past filled murder and deceit? Does Daniel stand to inherit a bulk of money after a long journey to find his long lost father? This author did a wonderful job with bringing out this issue of forgiveness definitely "letting go of the past that heals and nourishes the heart."
All of the characters were well developed and really push the story line along only making it even more interesting as you move along in the read...for you have the heroine, hero, heroine's friend, group of daughters, meddlesome reporter to name...with Sarah, Daniel, Cora, Minnie, Mrs. McGinnis and Charlotte to name a few.
"Josiah's Treasure" was truly a wonderful and well written novel that gave a real description along with the knowledge of San Francisco during this time in the 1800's. Would I recommend this novel? Yes, as a excellent read.
Published by: Worthy Publisher
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 5
Review:
"Josiah's Treasure" by Nancy Herriman was a historical, romance, inspirational with a little mystery all rolled up into one good read taking place in San Francisco, 1882. You will find "Josiah's Treasure" filled will a journey of "secrets, faith, deception, betrayal, hope and love." In this read we find that Sarah Whittier(who had been a nurse companion to Josiah Cady) has been left a inheritance, but before she could claim it, Daniel Cady shows up claiming to be Josiah's son. Josiah Cady thought that his family had died. What will become of all of this? We will find that Daniel even with 'his vengeful heart' he will try to save Sarah...there was a rumor that Sarah has a treasure chest full of gold nuggets. Was there gold nuggets in Nob Hill?
Sarah had "dreams of having a art studio run by immigrant women and she had planed to use the house left to her family friend Joshia Cady as collateral for her studio." Now, what was going to happen now that Josiah's son as returned as the legal heir along with his ten year old twin sisters. Will Daniel be able to get this treasure for his sisters?
There will be many questions that will need to be answered in this read...like... "Was Josiah a father who left a wife and children behind to search for gold? Was Sarah’s past filled murder and deceit? Does Daniel stand to inherit a bulk of money after a long journey to find his long lost father? This author did a wonderful job with bringing out this issue of forgiveness definitely "letting go of the past that heals and nourishes the heart."
All of the characters were well developed and really push the story line along only making it even more interesting as you move along in the read...for you have the heroine, hero, heroine's friend, group of daughters, meddlesome reporter to name...with Sarah, Daniel, Cora, Minnie, Mrs. McGinnis and Charlotte to name a few.
"Josiah's Treasure" was truly a wonderful and well written novel that gave a real description along with the knowledge of San Francisco during this time in the 1800's. Would I recommend this novel? Yes, as a excellent read.
April 30, 2013
Sarah Whittier has just acquired the lease to develop her art design studio, where she will train and employ young women with no other honourable options in 1882 San Francisco. But all her plans might come to nothing: not only is she having trouble finding investors for her studio, but there is a rumour of treasure in the house she recently inherited which has incited a break-in, and she may lose her house to a stranger.
Daniel Cady has spent months locating the father who abandoned him, his mother and his two young sisters nine years ago. But instead of finding his father, he finds Josiah is dead and an attractive young woman with high ideals has inherited the estate, not his children: apparently, Josiah believed his family was dead.
It’s not really made clear why Sarah has to go bowing and scraping to find investors for her art studio, given that she has just inherited an estate worth thousands (even if there isn’t a lot of ready cash, there is a property to use as collateral). And the early chapters of Josiah’s Treasure allude to Sarah’s history in a way that makes it feel as though this is a sequel when it is not (I checked, because it really felt as though there was a background that I was supposed to know).
But the story evens out as Sarah and Daniel work together to determine who is trying to break in to the house, find the truth to the rumours that Josiah left a fortune in gold hidden in the house, as well as discovering a mutual attraction. I liked Daniel but didn’t really relate to Sarah. Without having the background as to why she wanted to save and train the girls for her art studio, she came across as too cliché in her apparent perfection, and we didn’t see any change in her lack of faith in God. We were told she had not changed, but not shown that change, and that was a definite weakness. Enjoyable, but rather predictable.
Thanks to Worthy Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
Daniel Cady has spent months locating the father who abandoned him, his mother and his two young sisters nine years ago. But instead of finding his father, he finds Josiah is dead and an attractive young woman with high ideals has inherited the estate, not his children: apparently, Josiah believed his family was dead.
It’s not really made clear why Sarah has to go bowing and scraping to find investors for her art studio, given that she has just inherited an estate worth thousands (even if there isn’t a lot of ready cash, there is a property to use as collateral). And the early chapters of Josiah’s Treasure allude to Sarah’s history in a way that makes it feel as though this is a sequel when it is not (I checked, because it really felt as though there was a background that I was supposed to know).
But the story evens out as Sarah and Daniel work together to determine who is trying to break in to the house, find the truth to the rumours that Josiah left a fortune in gold hidden in the house, as well as discovering a mutual attraction. I liked Daniel but didn’t really relate to Sarah. Without having the background as to why she wanted to save and train the girls for her art studio, she came across as too cliché in her apparent perfection, and we didn’t see any change in her lack of faith in God. We were told she had not changed, but not shown that change, and that was a definite weakness. Enjoyable, but rather predictable.
Thanks to Worthy Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
March 29, 2013
This is a great read for readers seeking balm, calm, and inspiration. Most of us struggle with forgiveness and the most difficult person to forgive is frequently oneself. Josiah’s Treasure tells a story of the rocky road to love. In the end only God’s grace leads to forgiveness, the complete letting go of the past that heals the soul and nourishes the heart.
Author gives us two strong personalities determined to make their lives useful and meaningful in spite of the ill-will others, misfortune, and their own mistakes.
Sarah Whittier has changed her name, left her past, and constructed a life of fruitful creativity. She lives by her art and works to change the lives of other women through a commercial art studio. Sarah and the colorful group of women she employs are well drawn complex characters. Their hard work, loyalty, and problems form the back drop of the story.
The studio is only possible because of an inheritance from Josiah Cady, an old friend who took Sarah in and helped her build a new life. The entire project begins to crumble when Sarah’s and Josiah’s pasts come to light and collide.
Josiah may or may not have left a treasure in gold in his house. Daniel Cady may or may not be Josiah’s son. Sarah is sure Josiah’s real family died. Daniel is determined to prove otherwise. His bitterness threatens everything Sarah values.
Underneath the bitterness that becomes all too understandable, Daniel Cady is a man who values family and responsibility above all. Herriman makes the complex layers of his personality understandable. Readers will be as drawn to him as Sarah (reluctantly) is.
Determination to do good drives both these characters. In the end prayers gives them the desires of their heart. Forgiveness is the treasure that changes their lives more profoundly than gold.
Author gives us two strong personalities determined to make their lives useful and meaningful in spite of the ill-will others, misfortune, and their own mistakes.
Sarah Whittier has changed her name, left her past, and constructed a life of fruitful creativity. She lives by her art and works to change the lives of other women through a commercial art studio. Sarah and the colorful group of women she employs are well drawn complex characters. Their hard work, loyalty, and problems form the back drop of the story.
The studio is only possible because of an inheritance from Josiah Cady, an old friend who took Sarah in and helped her build a new life. The entire project begins to crumble when Sarah’s and Josiah’s pasts come to light and collide.
Josiah may or may not have left a treasure in gold in his house. Daniel Cady may or may not be Josiah’s son. Sarah is sure Josiah’s real family died. Daniel is determined to prove otherwise. His bitterness threatens everything Sarah values.
Underneath the bitterness that becomes all too understandable, Daniel Cady is a man who values family and responsibility above all. Herriman makes the complex layers of his personality understandable. Readers will be as drawn to him as Sarah (reluctantly) is.
Determination to do good drives both these characters. In the end prayers gives them the desires of their heart. Forgiveness is the treasure that changes their lives more profoundly than gold.
April 16, 2013
An excellently written, very exciting historical read! This book even has a little bit of suspense which I loved!
This is the first book of this authors that I have read! I now really, really want to read "The Irish Healer"!
I really liked this book. I loved the writing style, the dry sarcasm made me laugh aloud at countless lines, but there is also a healthy amount of what I like to call 'realistic drama' which I loved. Nothing can bore me more than silly, fantastical drama and I was ecstatic that there was none of that in this book! I don't think I have ever read a book set in 1880s San Francisco so this was a nice change of pace for me, the city and it's surroundings were described beautifully and without excessive amounts of detail, which I loved. The characters were excellent and I loved that the change in Sarah and Daniel was realistic but also visible to the reader. I loved the two main characters but Mrs McGinnis, Cora, Minnie, and the rest of the girls were also delightful! But I think Charlotte is my favorite character, she just so awesome! I loved what Sarah was committed to doing to help other girls that were in positions similar to hers before Josiah took her in! Sarah was a very brave and determined heroine but she never did anything stupid or reckless, which I really liked. This book does move a tad slow at times, but it's definitely worth reading! I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
I recieved a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via CFBA in exchange for an honest review. The above is my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
September 10, 2013
Having never read anything by Nancy Herriman, I had no idea what to expect when I opened up Josiah’s Treasure. However, it sounded like an interesting book so I decided to try it out. I found myself enjoying the story. While it was not a book that I would read over and over, it was enjoyable enough that I am glad I read it once.
Sarah has recently inherited Josiah’s fortune and estate and she is planning on using the money to pay for an art studio. She wants to use this studio to give lessons to girls who are in need and to help them learn a trade to help them provide for themselves. However, when Daniel comes to town claiming he is the son of Josiah, Sarah finds herself in danger of losing the inheritance and seeing her dreams crumble and fall. It doesn’t help that some people are convinced that Josiah has left behind some kind of treasure in his house and danger soon arises for Sarah.
I enjoyed the mystery aspect to the book. I was swept into the world of Sarah and Daniel as they tried to figure out their futures and how God would provide for them both. I liked the relationship that slowly grew between them. Even though they were “enemies” at first, they both grew to trust that God had a purpose for them both.
Like I said, I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading more from this author.
I received a free ecopy of this book from Worthy Publishers through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I received no compensation for this review and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions stated are my own.
Leah B.
Must Love Books
mustlovereading.wordpress.com
Sarah has recently inherited Josiah’s fortune and estate and she is planning on using the money to pay for an art studio. She wants to use this studio to give lessons to girls who are in need and to help them learn a trade to help them provide for themselves. However, when Daniel comes to town claiming he is the son of Josiah, Sarah finds herself in danger of losing the inheritance and seeing her dreams crumble and fall. It doesn’t help that some people are convinced that Josiah has left behind some kind of treasure in his house and danger soon arises for Sarah.
I enjoyed the mystery aspect to the book. I was swept into the world of Sarah and Daniel as they tried to figure out their futures and how God would provide for them both. I liked the relationship that slowly grew between them. Even though they were “enemies” at first, they both grew to trust that God had a purpose for them both.
Like I said, I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading more from this author.
I received a free ecopy of this book from Worthy Publishers through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I received no compensation for this review and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions stated are my own.
Leah B.
Must Love Books
mustlovereading.wordpress.com
April 16, 2013
Sarah Whittier is an aspiring young artist who has been blessed with an inheritance from a man who took her in and loved her like a daughter. She dreams of helping poor immigrant women make their way in the world in a career that isn't working in a factory or on the streets. Daniel Cady arrives in San Fransisco to find the father that abandoned him and his sisters years before. He doesn't realize that his father has died and left all he had to Sarah. As he gets to know Sarah, his thirst for revenge and justice fade away and he finds himself captivated by the young woman with the big heart. When a rumor surfaces of gold in the house, Sarah is in danger and Daniel will do all he can to protect her. Will the pair discover what the true treasure is?
This is the first book I've read by Nancy Herriman. It started off slow and I was easily distracted from it. But as I persisted in reading it, I soon became caught up in the drama between Sarah and Daniel. I found that both of these two were extremely stubborn and passionate. Watching how they grew and changed throughout the book showed that the characters had depth to them. I'm pretty sure that I have some of the other books this author has written on my to-be-read list, and those books will be moving up the list!
I received the Kindle version of this book for free from Worthy Publishing via NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Julie Lessman, DeeAnne Gist, Rita Gerlach, Kathleen Morgan
Rating - 4 stars
This is the first book I've read by Nancy Herriman. It started off slow and I was easily distracted from it. But as I persisted in reading it, I soon became caught up in the drama between Sarah and Daniel. I found that both of these two were extremely stubborn and passionate. Watching how they grew and changed throughout the book showed that the characters had depth to them. I'm pretty sure that I have some of the other books this author has written on my to-be-read list, and those books will be moving up the list!
I received the Kindle version of this book for free from Worthy Publishing via NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Julie Lessman, DeeAnne Gist, Rita Gerlach, Kathleen Morgan
Rating - 4 stars
February 27, 2013
Nancy Herriman has done a wonderful job with her second novel (her first, The Irish Healer, was released April 3, 2012). She truly brings the sights and smells of 1882 San Francisco to life. Her heroine, Sarah, is head-strong, determined, plucky, and intelligent, which is always a bonus. Her hero starts off angry, cynical, and bent on getting what he thinks he deserves.
Starting the book off, I wasn’t pulled into it immediately. I really didn’t like Daniel Cady (the hero) whatsoever, and even Sarah rubbed me the wrong way. Her redeeming quality (at the beginning) was her determination to provide for poor, immigrant women who needed better work. Additionally, I found the writing to be somewhat stilted without good flow; however, I admit that I was reading an advance copy, and often those are sent before an editor has one more go at the manuscript (at least, in my past experience).
Having said this, the book started to turn around for me in chapter five. The story started to go somewhere and picked up the pace, which I always appreciate. It waned in the middle, but in the end, Ms. Herriman wrote a solid story that entertained me, and mostly kept my attention (which, with two preschoolers and a teenager, can get swayed pretty easily!). Daniel redeemed himself in my eyes, but I never did gain a full appreciation for the character of Sarah.
I would recommend this book. Just be forewarned that it does start out somewhat slowly. In the end, however, I believe you’ll enjoy it!
Starting the book off, I wasn’t pulled into it immediately. I really didn’t like Daniel Cady (the hero) whatsoever, and even Sarah rubbed me the wrong way. Her redeeming quality (at the beginning) was her determination to provide for poor, immigrant women who needed better work. Additionally, I found the writing to be somewhat stilted without good flow; however, I admit that I was reading an advance copy, and often those are sent before an editor has one more go at the manuscript (at least, in my past experience).
Having said this, the book started to turn around for me in chapter five. The story started to go somewhere and picked up the pace, which I always appreciate. It waned in the middle, but in the end, Ms. Herriman wrote a solid story that entertained me, and mostly kept my attention (which, with two preschoolers and a teenager, can get swayed pretty easily!). Daniel redeemed himself in my eyes, but I never did gain a full appreciation for the character of Sarah.
I would recommend this book. Just be forewarned that it does start out somewhat slowly. In the end, however, I believe you’ll enjoy it!
April 17, 2013
I really enjoy reading stories about strong women like Sarah Whittier in Josiah’s Treasure. I wouldn’t exactly call myself a feminist but I do appreciate when women step outside their typecast roles and do what they need to do to survive and take care of themselves and the ones that they love.
Sarah Whittier finds herself abandoned more than once in her life by people that were supposed to love and cherish her. When Josiah takes her under his wing, she experiences love and acceptance for the first time in her life. Unfortunately, it doesn’t last when he passes away. Because of their relationship he leaves her his home and money but when a man claiming to be his son shows up, she stands to lose it all.
Sarah is an admirable character, not only because of her strength but because of her character. She helps women who have found hardship as she once did and gives them a job so that they don’t end up on the streets doing the only “profession” many women are left to in similar predicaments.
When Daniel Cady shows up claiming to be Josiah’s son, Sarah struggles to fight for what is hers. Not only does her welfare depend upon it but also the women who have come to rely on her.
I loved Herriman’s style of writing and her knowledge of San Francisco in the 180o’s. I could almost hear the street cars and smell the salty air with her descriptive words. Her faith is evident in her writing and it helps to develop her characters.
Josiah’s Treasure is a reminder of what a true treasure is. Money can not buy happiness and is not where our hope should lie.
Sarah Whittier finds herself abandoned more than once in her life by people that were supposed to love and cherish her. When Josiah takes her under his wing, she experiences love and acceptance for the first time in her life. Unfortunately, it doesn’t last when he passes away. Because of their relationship he leaves her his home and money but when a man claiming to be his son shows up, she stands to lose it all.
Sarah is an admirable character, not only because of her strength but because of her character. She helps women who have found hardship as she once did and gives them a job so that they don’t end up on the streets doing the only “profession” many women are left to in similar predicaments.
When Daniel Cady shows up claiming to be Josiah’s son, Sarah struggles to fight for what is hers. Not only does her welfare depend upon it but also the women who have come to rely on her.
I loved Herriman’s style of writing and her knowledge of San Francisco in the 180o’s. I could almost hear the street cars and smell the salty air with her descriptive words. Her faith is evident in her writing and it helps to develop her characters.
Josiah’s Treasure is a reminder of what a true treasure is. Money can not buy happiness and is not where our hope should lie.
April 7, 2013
Wow!! This is an All time favorite! A lovely story which transforms charecters perception of the word - Treasure.
Sarah, after foolishly falling head over hills for her art tutor, and decides to run with him from los angeles to canada to get eloped, but they bearly reach San Francisco and she finds out that he is a thief and has stollen her uncle's gold nughets. All dreams shattered and reputation ruined she remains in San Francisco where she finds Josiah Cady-her uncles gold mine partner. After Josiah gives her a second chance, Sarah wants to give the same chance to the immigrant girls who had hit the rocky bottom in life but have a tallent for painting. She opens an art studio and teaches classes.. But all her dreams are about to be shattered again when Josiah's son Daniel Cady comes to claim what was rightfully his from a worthless father who hurt him years ago.
Ohhh i want to write all about it, but Im not going to spoil it for you readers. It is a great story of finding true treasure in God and true love. Please read it, you will be surviving on coffee for a few nights but every page is worth it.
It's my first book by this author, but let me tell you - she has got a great ballance between conversation, action, and description.. And is a totally captivating writer!!!
Disclaimer: I got a free copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com in exchange for my honest opinion.
Sarah, after foolishly falling head over hills for her art tutor, and decides to run with him from los angeles to canada to get eloped, but they bearly reach San Francisco and she finds out that he is a thief and has stollen her uncle's gold nughets. All dreams shattered and reputation ruined she remains in San Francisco where she finds Josiah Cady-her uncles gold mine partner. After Josiah gives her a second chance, Sarah wants to give the same chance to the immigrant girls who had hit the rocky bottom in life but have a tallent for painting. She opens an art studio and teaches classes.. But all her dreams are about to be shattered again when Josiah's son Daniel Cady comes to claim what was rightfully his from a worthless father who hurt him years ago.
Ohhh i want to write all about it, but Im not going to spoil it for you readers. It is a great story of finding true treasure in God and true love. Please read it, you will be surviving on coffee for a few nights but every page is worth it.
It's my first book by this author, but let me tell you - she has got a great ballance between conversation, action, and description.. And is a totally captivating writer!!!
Disclaimer: I got a free copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 22, 2013
Title: JOSIAH’S TREASURE
Author: Nancy Herriman
Publisher: Worthy Publishing
April 2013
ISBN: 978-1936034796
Genre: Historical
A feisty young female artist with a secret past battles to establish her own gallery in gold-rush era San Francisco.
In 1882, Sarah Whittier dreams of opening an art studio run by immigrant women. She plans to use the house left to her by family friend Josiah Cady as collateral for her studio. But will all be lost when the inheritance is challenged by an angry man claiming to be Josiah's son and legal heir? Rumor of gold nuggets hidden in the house, place Sarah's life in danger. Her future uncertain and her safety threatened, Sarah has nowhere to turn. That is, unless she can soften a vengeful man's heart-and they both learn that love is finer than any gold.
JOSIAH’S TREASURE is a historical about a strong working woman who nursed Josiah Cady until his death. She inherits all his assets, but stands to lose them when Daniel Cady arrives, claiming to be Josiah’s son and legal heir.
The writing is good. Ms. Herriman has penned a good story. However I never did connect to the characters the way I would’ve liked. I didn’t particularly care who won the fight over Mr. Cady’s money. I was able to easily predict how the book would end. I didn’t find any surprises. $14.99. 310 pages.
Author: Nancy Herriman
Publisher: Worthy Publishing
April 2013
ISBN: 978-1936034796
Genre: Historical
A feisty young female artist with a secret past battles to establish her own gallery in gold-rush era San Francisco.
In 1882, Sarah Whittier dreams of opening an art studio run by immigrant women. She plans to use the house left to her by family friend Josiah Cady as collateral for her studio. But will all be lost when the inheritance is challenged by an angry man claiming to be Josiah's son and legal heir? Rumor of gold nuggets hidden in the house, place Sarah's life in danger. Her future uncertain and her safety threatened, Sarah has nowhere to turn. That is, unless she can soften a vengeful man's heart-and they both learn that love is finer than any gold.
JOSIAH’S TREASURE is a historical about a strong working woman who nursed Josiah Cady until his death. She inherits all his assets, but stands to lose them when Daniel Cady arrives, claiming to be Josiah’s son and legal heir.
The writing is good. Ms. Herriman has penned a good story. However I never did connect to the characters the way I would’ve liked. I didn’t particularly care who won the fight over Mr. Cady’s money. I was able to easily predict how the book would end. I didn’t find any surprises. $14.99. 310 pages.
April 5, 2013
JOSIAH'S TREASURE by Nancy Herriman is a inspirational historical Fiction set in 1882 San Francisco. A fast paced story filled with hope and promise. Sarah Whittier and Daniel Cady are on a journey of secrets,faith,deception,betrayal,hope and love. Daniel has a vengeful heart until the truth is revealed about his father,Josiah,who left his inheritance to Sarah. Sarah has a desire to help others,a past filled with secrets,and mistakes,and a desire to own an Art Galley. When rumor places Sarah in danger, because,someone thinks she is has a treasure chest full of gold nuggets, Daniel must let go of his vengeful heart to help save Sarah. Josiah,not only rescued Sarah,but loved her unconditionally,he thought his precious family was dead to him. He died not knowing the truth. Daniel learns far more than he wanted to about his father,his family and love. Josiah's treasure is far more than gold,love may be the greatest treasure of all. A must read for anyone who enjoys Christian reads,historical fiction,Americana reads,early 1800 Art world,and a wonderful story of hope and promise. Received for an honest review from the publisher and Wynn-Wynn Media,LLC.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING:SWEET
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction Reviews
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING:SWEET
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction Reviews
November 3, 2012
I am so glad that author Nancy Herriman asked me to read her novel--I might not have found it otherwise, as I haven't been a heavy romance reader since high school, and the cover image doesn't exactly leap off the shelf.
However, this novel should leap to your reading list if you love historical fiction with excellent world building and if you appreciate romance that features two multi-dimensional, very real feeling people. Daniel and Sarah clearly have reason to admire and love each other, but legitimately conflicting claims and priorities hold them apart. The weight of the past can be an anchor to moving forward in life, but both injured protagonists are determined to make better futures for the people they care about. There's no silliness or contrivance in either the attraction or the obstacles. The story relies not on carnal tension, but on heartfelt struggle and longing for connection. The roles of men and women in nineteenth century frontier San Francisco are illuminated with a pen as accurate as the protagonist Sarah's paint brush. This clean romance is a fine antidote, offering fifty shades of earnest, hard-working, admirable characters who deserve happiness.
However, this novel should leap to your reading list if you love historical fiction with excellent world building and if you appreciate romance that features two multi-dimensional, very real feeling people. Daniel and Sarah clearly have reason to admire and love each other, but legitimately conflicting claims and priorities hold them apart. The weight of the past can be an anchor to moving forward in life, but both injured protagonists are determined to make better futures for the people they care about. There's no silliness or contrivance in either the attraction or the obstacles. The story relies not on carnal tension, but on heartfelt struggle and longing for connection. The roles of men and women in nineteenth century frontier San Francisco are illuminated with a pen as accurate as the protagonist Sarah's paint brush. This clean romance is a fine antidote, offering fifty shades of earnest, hard-working, admirable characters who deserve happiness.
August 3, 2013
I won Josiah's Treasure in a Goodreads giveaway. Thank you Goodreads, Nancy Herriman, and Worthy Publishing.
Josiah's Treasure is a pleasant book about a young woman, Sarah Whittier, who has determined to use her inheritance to own and operate a lithograph studio and give women in precarious situations a chance to earn an honest living. Then a man arrives in town, claiming to be the son of her benefactor, demanding what ought to be his. As I said, this book is pleasant enough, but very predictable. The reader can guess what happens all along the way. There are no surprises or plot twists. If you think you know what happens next, you are right. It does. This is not to say this is not an enjoyable book—only that it could be much better if the reader had to puzzle over the ins and outs of the plot. I also would have liked to see the characters of the women, and their back stories, more developed so we would know and care about each of them.
Josiah's Treasure is a pleasant book about a young woman, Sarah Whittier, who has determined to use her inheritance to own and operate a lithograph studio and give women in precarious situations a chance to earn an honest living. Then a man arrives in town, claiming to be the son of her benefactor, demanding what ought to be his. As I said, this book is pleasant enough, but very predictable. The reader can guess what happens all along the way. There are no surprises or plot twists. If you think you know what happens next, you are right. It does. This is not to say this is not an enjoyable book—only that it could be much better if the reader had to puzzle over the ins and outs of the plot. I also would have liked to see the characters of the women, and their back stories, more developed so we would know and care about each of them.
April 13, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. Sarah is a strong, female character who has had made some mistakes in life and has true compassion for others. She is attempting to start her own business as a way of helping other women who are in bad situations. Daniel Cady comes into the picture when he arrives in town looking for his father, who deserted his family years ago. Daniel is full of a lot of anger towards his father, who is now deceased and left his remaining estate to Sarah. The story centers on overcoming past mistakes, getting over anger and being open to God in your life. The characters all grow throughout the course of the book. I found it well written and a good story. I was provided the opportunity to read this book for free from Worthy Publishing in exchange for my honest opinion in a review.
April 23, 2013
Nancy Herriman has crafted an endearing story with a thread of intrigue and mystery wound through it. It's set in San Francisco in the 1800s, and I enjoyed her descriptions of the city's sights and sounds. I didn't quite know what to expect as I had never read a book by Nancy, but I found it to be a well written, compelling story.
Throughout the book the characters learn the importance of forgiveness and how to let go of the bitterness they've been holding onto. It's not a quick or easy process which I appreciated because in real life it's not either. As they come to rediscover their relationship with God they are able to gradually let go of the bitterness and hurt and forgive even when it's not reciprocated or asked for.
I received this book from Netgalley and Worthy Publishing for the purpose of an honest review. My opinion is my own. Thank you Worthy Publishing.
Throughout the book the characters learn the importance of forgiveness and how to let go of the bitterness they've been holding onto. It's not a quick or easy process which I appreciated because in real life it's not either. As they come to rediscover their relationship with God they are able to gradually let go of the bitterness and hurt and forgive even when it's not reciprocated or asked for.
I received this book from Netgalley and Worthy Publishing for the purpose of an honest review. My opinion is my own. Thank you Worthy Publishing.
January 30, 2015
What a great story! As I was reading, I felt like I was right there in 1882 San Francisco. I smelled, heard, and saw the city right along with the characters. I could feel Anne's fears, Daniel's annoyance and Lottie's optimism. Josiah's Treasure is a joy to read.
I like Sarah, the main female character, because she is a champion for women who find themselves in hopeless circumstances. She is determined to follow her plan despite huge obstacles-- the main one being that she is a woman. I didn't want to like Daniel, but eventually was coaxed into doing so, despite his objective. The secondary characters add much depth and interest to the story. I hope some of them show up in future books.
This is quite a complex story with subplots, twists and turns. I think anyone who enjoys historical romance along with societal issues of the times would enjoy this novel.
I like Sarah, the main female character, because she is a champion for women who find themselves in hopeless circumstances. She is determined to follow her plan despite huge obstacles-- the main one being that she is a woman. I didn't want to like Daniel, but eventually was coaxed into doing so, despite his objective. The secondary characters add much depth and interest to the story. I hope some of them show up in future books.
This is quite a complex story with subplots, twists and turns. I think anyone who enjoys historical romance along with societal issues of the times would enjoy this novel.
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