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The Library
How can someone 'keep the peace' when there's never been any peace to keep?
England, 1850. Bookworm Irene Denton lives with a painful secret. The citizens of Lindenfell think of her mother as a kind, generous lady—but behind closed doors, she's a cruel tyrant who controls her household with vitriol and violence. Stories have always provided refuge for Irene, so when the possibility arises that Lindenfell could have a library of its own, she’s hopeful she’ll soon have a safe place to escape her mother’s merciless grasp.
Solomon Shaw enjoys helping his widowed father run Lindenfell's chemist shop and longs to pluck up the courage to win Irene's affections. But a shameful secret—and the guilt it burdens him with daily—has convinced him she can never be his. When the figure from his past he hoped he’d never see again arrives back in town, Solomon fears their presence will soon shatter his warm, steady relationship with his father by exposing his secret.
Amidst untold devastations and mounting pressures, Irene and Solomon kindle hope for a future together, though meddling interlopers and long-buried truths soon signal the end of their story.
But is the book entirely closed on the hope they once had? Or can a new chapter of peace and love still be written?
Brimming with faith and intrigue, this Christian Victorian romance from award-winning author Edwina Kiernan will encourage and delight you long after you turn the last page.
England, 1850. Bookworm Irene Denton lives with a painful secret. The citizens of Lindenfell think of her mother as a kind, generous lady—but behind closed doors, she's a cruel tyrant who controls her household with vitriol and violence. Stories have always provided refuge for Irene, so when the possibility arises that Lindenfell could have a library of its own, she’s hopeful she’ll soon have a safe place to escape her mother’s merciless grasp.
Solomon Shaw enjoys helping his widowed father run Lindenfell's chemist shop and longs to pluck up the courage to win Irene's affections. But a shameful secret—and the guilt it burdens him with daily—has convinced him she can never be his. When the figure from his past he hoped he’d never see again arrives back in town, Solomon fears their presence will soon shatter his warm, steady relationship with his father by exposing his secret.
Amidst untold devastations and mounting pressures, Irene and Solomon kindle hope for a future together, though meddling interlopers and long-buried truths soon signal the end of their story.
But is the book entirely closed on the hope they once had? Or can a new chapter of peace and love still be written?
Brimming with faith and intrigue, this Christian Victorian romance from award-winning author Edwina Kiernan will encourage and delight you long after you turn the last page.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
About the author
Edwina Kiernan
14 books775 followersEdwina Kiernan is a multi-award-winning author of Christian historical fiction. She is a committed follower of Jesus (the Living Word), and endeavors to use her pen to point others to Him. All her books feature strong, gospel-centered faith, dramatic danger and suspense, and sweet romance, wrapped up in atmospheric historical settings you won’t want to leave. Find out more at: EdwinaKiernan.com
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 18, 2024
Gospel-filled and faith-building!
If a very physically and emotionally abusive, dysfunctional family can be a trigger, please read with caution. However, I hope the goodness and faithfulness of God showed in the novel will be a comfort to you.
With an extremely volatile mother, Irene hopes only in God and finds joy only in the books. The library opened only thanks to benevolence of a wealthy neighbor becomes a haven. And long-term attraction to the local chemist builds desire to use him as a means of escape. However, Solomon battles his own past guilt and faces present consequences of sinful actions.
It is God who truly becomes the savior to these two as they learn to rely on Him and His truth. I loved how unapologetically gospel-centered this novel is and how gently trauma from abuse is handled. Together with the characters we learn to trust that God never leaves and never forsakes, He is near to the brokenhearted.
And of course, a HEA after all the turmoil Solomon and Irene have to face is just a cherry on top.
I had a privilege to read an advanced copy of this novel but my positive review and opinion are all of my own volition. This faith-building Christian fiction is a beautiful story to read.
If a very physically and emotionally abusive, dysfunctional family can be a trigger, please read with caution. However, I hope the goodness and faithfulness of God showed in the novel will be a comfort to you.
With an extremely volatile mother, Irene hopes only in God and finds joy only in the books. The library opened only thanks to benevolence of a wealthy neighbor becomes a haven. And long-term attraction to the local chemist builds desire to use him as a means of escape. However, Solomon battles his own past guilt and faces present consequences of sinful actions.
It is God who truly becomes the savior to these two as they learn to rely on Him and His truth. I loved how unapologetically gospel-centered this novel is and how gently trauma from abuse is handled. Together with the characters we learn to trust that God never leaves and never forsakes, He is near to the brokenhearted.
And of course, a HEA after all the turmoil Solomon and Irene have to face is just a cherry on top.
I had a privilege to read an advanced copy of this novel but my positive review and opinion are all of my own volition. This faith-building Christian fiction is a beautiful story to read.
October 19, 2024
Kiernan has an absolutely wonderful way of weaving a story that allows her readers to feel as though they are standing in the middle of it as the story unfolds.
The Library tells the story of Solomon and Irene and Felix and Emily and Matthew and Mr. Shaw and Miss Withers... It is a story of the virtues of grace being given over and over and of the true essence of love being realized. It is a story of faith, not only in those with whom we surround ourselves but also in our own choices and decisions.
Irene lives a very difficult life at the beck and call of her mother, a lady the town respects and trusts. Her father is in denial as to what goes on in his own house. Solomon suspects something is off with Irene but becomes too involved in his own past and future to take the time to ask. Finally, Miss Withers gives Irene the permission she needs to hear to act according to her heart: the choice in how she responds is her own.
You won’t be disappointed in this story! I read it on one sitting because I just had to know what was going to happen!
The Library tells the story of Solomon and Irene and Felix and Emily and Matthew and Mr. Shaw and Miss Withers... It is a story of the virtues of grace being given over and over and of the true essence of love being realized. It is a story of faith, not only in those with whom we surround ourselves but also in our own choices and decisions.
Irene lives a very difficult life at the beck and call of her mother, a lady the town respects and trusts. Her father is in denial as to what goes on in his own house. Solomon suspects something is off with Irene but becomes too involved in his own past and future to take the time to ask. Finally, Miss Withers gives Irene the permission she needs to hear to act according to her heart: the choice in how she responds is her own.
You won’t be disappointed in this story! I read it on one sitting because I just had to know what was going to happen!
October 19, 2024
Faith-filled story of broken people who find their strength in a forgiving God. Trigger warning: physical and verbal abuse (parent-adult child)
I think my favorite thing about this book is that even though Irene has such a hard and extremely horrible home life she has an amazing relationship with God. She knows that He is with her and He’s her rescuer.
Solomon. His inability to forgive himself for confessed (repented of) sin was almost heart breaking. He definitely has his struggles and consequences of his sins.
After some highs and deep lows Irene and Solomon find their happily ever after.
Miss Withers and Alice were fantastic!
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
I think my favorite thing about this book is that even though Irene has such a hard and extremely horrible home life she has an amazing relationship with God. She knows that He is with her and He’s her rescuer.
Solomon. His inability to forgive himself for confessed (repented of) sin was almost heart breaking. He definitely has his struggles and consequences of his sins.
After some highs and deep lows Irene and Solomon find their happily ever after.
Miss Withers and Alice were fantastic!
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
October 31, 2024
What a gripping story! One of highs and lows, where I often wondered if there would ever be a happy ending.
For a Christian book, I found this story quite disturbing at first. However, because I know the kinds of stories that Edwina writes, stories of faith and enduring love, amidst trials and adversity, I was determined to keep reading, even though some of the content in the first few chapters was confronting. As is often the case in novels written by Edwina, I simply knew that God would teach me some lesson through these words! I was not disappointed.
The characters in 'The Library', just as I find all of the characters in Edwina’s books to be, were so real and believable. You find yourself getting right into the lives of the people you’re reading about.
Irene was enduring her private hell on earth, hoping and praying that God would save her from it.
Solomon also had his demons to deal with - guilt over his perceived sin.
Each learned to put their trust fully in the faithfulness of their God and to overcome their fear and guilt.
As usual, Edwina has excelled in writing a story which challenges our perceptions and ideals of a perfect life! She shows us that no matter what circumstances we find ourselves in, or less-than ideal situations we have to endure, that the Lord can help us rise above those things, and grow us in our faith and trust in Him.
My biggest takeaway from this book was that in everything we go through, as we trust God’s perfect plan for our lives, He remains with us, directing and guiding all along the way, even when we don’t know He is! One of my favourite Bible passages spells out this truth in the best way:
"And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose". Romans 8:28
I acknowledge that I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the author.
For a Christian book, I found this story quite disturbing at first. However, because I know the kinds of stories that Edwina writes, stories of faith and enduring love, amidst trials and adversity, I was determined to keep reading, even though some of the content in the first few chapters was confronting. As is often the case in novels written by Edwina, I simply knew that God would teach me some lesson through these words! I was not disappointed.
The characters in 'The Library', just as I find all of the characters in Edwina’s books to be, were so real and believable. You find yourself getting right into the lives of the people you’re reading about.
Irene was enduring her private hell on earth, hoping and praying that God would save her from it.
Solomon also had his demons to deal with - guilt over his perceived sin.
Each learned to put their trust fully in the faithfulness of their God and to overcome their fear and guilt.
As usual, Edwina has excelled in writing a story which challenges our perceptions and ideals of a perfect life! She shows us that no matter what circumstances we find ourselves in, or less-than ideal situations we have to endure, that the Lord can help us rise above those things, and grow us in our faith and trust in Him.
My biggest takeaway from this book was that in everything we go through, as we trust God’s perfect plan for our lives, He remains with us, directing and guiding all along the way, even when we don’t know He is! One of my favourite Bible passages spells out this truth in the best way:
"And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose". Romans 8:28
I acknowledge that I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the author.
April 1, 2025
I enjoy historical books and this was a good one, but my favorite thing in the book was this wonderful quote.
One thing I have learned is that the heart is a library, shelved with memories - both good and ill - and stacked with dreams and hopes. Some we may never read, and some we may read again and again. But we must choose wisely and carefully the volumes to which we give our attention. In time, the memories of the terrible volumes will fade as we choose to read - over and over again - all the pleasant ones.
One thing I have learned is that the heart is a library, shelved with memories - both good and ill - and stacked with dreams and hopes. Some we may never read, and some we may read again and again. But we must choose wisely and carefully the volumes to which we give our attention. In time, the memories of the terrible volumes will fade as we choose to read - over and over again - all the pleasant ones.
November 1, 2024
Not light reading
The story starts very slow. The first 43 chapters are filled with pain, secrets and misunderstandings. It was not easy to read. From chapter 44 there is some light, which grows as things unravel and are revealed.
The epilogue was not what I was expecting and while I was very disappointed to see no consequences for the mother, despite the drs report, etc., I do realise this was not uncommon for the era where scandal was avoided at all costs. I had hoped that her father would see the truth as well, but again it was disappointing for the reader, but true to the era. The message that did come across though was that despite there being no earthly justice as such, one can still have a happy ending with God's help. I will admit that the author describes the symptoms of PTSD due to her abuse very well. Overall, the writing is good and I liked how the author used Scriptural truths throughout, but be aware that this is not light reading and descriptions of abuse may be a trigger.
The story starts very slow. The first 43 chapters are filled with pain, secrets and misunderstandings. It was not easy to read. From chapter 44 there is some light, which grows as things unravel and are revealed.
The epilogue was not what I was expecting and while I was very disappointed to see no consequences for the mother, despite the drs report, etc., I do realise this was not uncommon for the era where scandal was avoided at all costs. I had hoped that her father would see the truth as well, but again it was disappointing for the reader, but true to the era. The message that did come across though was that despite there being no earthly justice as such, one can still have a happy ending with God's help. I will admit that the author describes the symptoms of PTSD due to her abuse very well. Overall, the writing is good and I liked how the author used Scriptural truths throughout, but be aware that this is not light reading and descriptions of abuse may be a trigger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2024
The Library is a wonderful book. I read it in one day. This book is about Irene. Everything on the outside looks perfect, but there is much going on in Irene's home life. Solomon works with his dad and sees Irene as she frequents the shop he works at. He really wants to get to know her. This is a story that you will want to to keep turning the pages till the end. Edwina Kierean is so good at writing books that show Gods hand and faithfulness through many situations. I was laughing and crying.
I was given this book by the author, all thoughts are my own. I will be looking forward to the next book.
I was given this book by the author, all thoughts are my own. I will be looking forward to the next book.
January 2, 2025
The Library by Edwina Kieran
This was truly a wonderful story. Some parts, where physical abuse was happening were difficult to read as I thought of people who go through such as this in life. But this story was a page turner for me. I had to know what would happen next. It is a story of forgiveness, redemption, love and most of all faith in the One who gives His grace freely to all who ask and believe in Him. The characters of Solomon and Irene will fill you with emotions. You will adore Miss Withers,too and others. Worth reading!
This was truly a wonderful story. Some parts, where physical abuse was happening were difficult to read as I thought of people who go through such as this in life. But this story was a page turner for me. I had to know what would happen next. It is a story of forgiveness, redemption, love and most of all faith in the One who gives His grace freely to all who ask and believe in Him. The characters of Solomon and Irene will fill you with emotions. You will adore Miss Withers,too and others. Worth reading!
May 14, 2026
This is a decent Christian historical fiction book. I think it unfortunately falls a little short of a great book as it was very difficult to get into in terms of interest and plot. But the messages throughout in regard to faith is very good. I did enjoy the end of the book once it picked up and for anyone wanting a light read mentally I think would be a good book for that. Of course there is no spice or romance scenes what so ever so it’s appropriate for all ages to enjoy (or if you listen to audio books and need to listen in the car with little, it’s safe for that).
November 2, 2024
I received this book as an ARC. It is the second book I have read by this author. It was a moving story that centered on abuse. There was another character who struggled with his past secrets. The two individuals keep their secrets but try to build a relationship and like everything in life something has to change. I rooted for the main characters the entire time,without giving anything else away. What a great faith based story of chances and triumph in the struggle! Thank you for the read
November 3, 2024
Nice story
While I enjoyed reading a story with Scripture woven into it, I found the grammatical errors distracting. Maybe you need a new editor. Most errors are of the type of using a subject pronoun instead of an object pronoun after a preposition— when you use a person’s name, for example, and then add the pronoun. It is incorrect to say, “ He talked to Jane and I. “. You can test yourself by removing, “Jane” and then you would not say “ He talked to I!
While I enjoyed reading a story with Scripture woven into it, I found the grammatical errors distracting. Maybe you need a new editor. Most errors are of the type of using a subject pronoun instead of an object pronoun after a preposition— when you use a person’s name, for example, and then add the pronoun. It is incorrect to say, “ He talked to Jane and I. “. You can test yourself by removing, “Jane” and then you would not say “ He talked to I!
December 4, 2024
Quality, Christ-centred fiction
I always enjoy reading Edwina’s novels. The storylines are good, but even more than that they highlight God’s goodness to us in Christ Jesus in a way that is both encouraging and challenging, bringing Bible-based truths to life. I always leave with much to ponder, apply and be thankful for.
I always enjoy reading Edwina’s novels. The storylines are good, but even more than that they highlight God’s goodness to us in Christ Jesus in a way that is both encouraging and challenging, bringing Bible-based truths to life. I always leave with much to ponder, apply and be thankful for.
November 1, 2024
I adored this beautiful story of love and forgiveness! Solomon and Irene’s story was beautifully written, and is such a heartfelt read. I loved how scripture and God’s truth was woven throughout the story. Highly recommend this book, and the rest of the series!
December 16, 2024
Inspirational Read
Edwina Kiernan weaves a story that is both inspiring and difficult to read. The cruelty that Irene experiences at her mother's hand is so abusive. It is difficult to imagine. Yet Irene chooses to trust the Lord.
Edwina Kiernan weaves a story that is both inspiring and difficult to read. The cruelty that Irene experiences at her mother's hand is so abusive. It is difficult to imagine. Yet Irene chooses to trust the Lord.
May 7, 2025
I loved this story!
Thank you, Edwina Kiernan, for writing such real stories, filled with characters who have made mistakes but have strong faith! I loved this story so much! Can't wait for book 4!
Thank you, Edwina Kiernan, for writing such real stories, filled with characters who have made mistakes but have strong faith! I loved this story so much! Can't wait for book 4!
December 28, 2024
lots of heartache
I love this author. Her novels are filled with God’s love for us. Such wonderful characters and soo realistic. I cried several times for it spoke volumes to me.
I love this author. Her novels are filled with God’s love for us. Such wonderful characters and soo realistic. I cried several times for it spoke volumes to me.
May 29, 2025
Well written. Though I was so upset at her mum and all the abuse Irene had to go through. The book also talks about redemption and forgiveness.
I highly recommend.
I highly recommend.
May 22, 2026
Very emotional
September 25, 2026
I really enjoyed this romance. While the ending was predictable, it was entertaining to see how the situation evolved. Some very wise Christian counseling and advice along the way in the book.
July 28, 2026
I really enjoyed this book from a new to me author. I loved the main characters and their sweet love story. There are quite a few villains in this story, and my heart broke for the FMC and what she had to endure. The faith content is excellent. The story deals with some difficult topics, so I suggest checking for trigger warnings. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
October 29, 2024
Can be read as a standalone but some of the characters overlap throughout the series. Reading in order would be advisable.
She's been living a nightmare for years. What everyone sees outside the home is different from what goes on behind closed doors. When he confesses to feelings for her she excited. Will this be her way to escape? What happens when someone from their pasts returns that knows what occurred the night he regrets? How will he handle the situation? When the truth comes out how does everyone react? Tough decisions have to be made that could lead to HEA for some but will have consequences no one wants.
I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given.
She's been living a nightmare for years. What everyone sees outside the home is different from what goes on behind closed doors. When he confesses to feelings for her she excited. Will this be her way to escape? What happens when someone from their pasts returns that knows what occurred the night he regrets? How will he handle the situation? When the truth comes out how does everyone react? Tough decisions have to be made that could lead to HEA for some but will have consequences no one wants.
I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews