Brighter Than Her Fears

by Lisa Ard

The 19th century women's rights movement and the rise of public education intertwine with one woman's story of struggle, perseverance, and love.When her father dies and the family inn falls to ruin in 1882, western North Carolina, thirty-year-old Alice Harris is compelled to marry Jasper Carter, a Civil War veteran twice her age. Far from home and a stranger in a new family, Alice remakes herself. She learns to farm tobacco, mothers her stepson, and comes to love her husband.However, Alice uncovers pending trouble with the family's land holdings, which threatens their livelihood on the farm. The growth in Asheville promises a different future—one of manufacturing, transportation, tourism, and wealth. Alice believes this future demands an education and she rebels against the limited rural instruction. She joins forces with other women campaigning for Asheville's first public schools. Her actions spark the rebuke of the Carter men. Tragedy strikes and Alice's newfound security is ripped away. The family challenges her property rights and files for guardianship of her stepson. Battered but determined, Alice turns to the law—and a friendly court clerk—to fight for her independence. Will Alice lose everything? Not if she can help it.Lisa Ard's debut historical fiction novel will resonate with readers for its parallels, between then and now, on women's rights, inequality, and racism.

Genres: Historical Fiction

350 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 16, 2024

About the author

My debut adult historical fiction novel Brighter Than Her Fears will release January 2024 -- follow my publishing journey on my Facebook author page! Visit my website and subscribe to my monthly newsletter for a behind-the-scenes look at my novel and the publishing process.

I have three children's books published and am a member of the Historical Novel Society and Willamette Writers. When not writing, you'll find me on the golf course or leading bike tours for the Palm Springs Historical Society.

Reviews

[Chantel · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent read! Kudos to the author for authoring this enjoyable gem. Brighter Than Her Fears is a truly engaging story and once started it was hard to put down. A lover of historical fiction, this is a time period /location that I don’t have much experience with. However, imagery used by author used as well as the language of the characters allowed me to feel like I was there. The descriptive passages caused this reader to fall right into the late 1800’s and into Alice’s life in Asheville rooting for her and her family. Many themes were brought up in this book: racial bias, women’s rights, and of course the right to education. A proponent of educational access, I never knew much of the history of the post Civil War American educational system. I appreciated learning of the controversy surrounding education in general this time period. The character development was rich and descriptive and I could “see” each with their distinct personalities strengths and weaknesses. I could easily identify with Alice and the balance between speaking her independent mind and maintaining connection to those she loved. Overall the story flowed smoothly allowing the reader to be absorbed into the lives and times of the novel. A definite must read!

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! You can picture being there.

[Suzi Swartz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brighter Than Her Fears is a beautifully-written novel. The descriptions are vivid and engage all five senses, and I could see the characters and places clearly. Alice is a strong narrator and one to root for as she navigates changes in her life. I also love when historical novels are written from a first-person point of view; for me it can bring a level of human relatability to the story that helps us as readers feel more connected to that character or to the story overall. Also, as someone who lived in western NC myself for a few years, it was both fun and interesting to get a picture of the area as it was in the 1880s through the eyes of a young woman, and to imagine, for example, downtown Asheville when the city had a population of only 4,000. It’s clear that Lisa Ard put a great deal of research into this book, and the effort shines through between the imagery, seamless weaving of historical events, and the range of characters’ views on different issues of the time throughout the story. Hesitancy to fund public schools, the presence of racism, lingering north-south tensions, and the economic challenges single women faced are all necessary historical details that play a role in the story, and I am glad that the novel did not shy away from grimmer sides of history. I was happy to be an advance reader for this book, and recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction, is interested in 19th-century US history, loves the mountains of western North Carolina, or is looking for an inspiring story about a strong woman.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a charming tale of an Ashville, North Carolina woman named Alice Harris. In 1882 at 30 years of age, disaster strikes when Alice's father dies and she has seemingly has no other options, except to marry a land owner, and Civil War veteran twice her age, in order to achieve a stable future for herself. Alice, through her own ambitious efforts, finds ways to influence actions that lead to the founding of the first public schools in and around Ashville, for both white and black children alike.

With gripping excellence, Ard leads you through Alice's challenges and advances in women's rights and public education. It's a winning success story.

[Nancy Mazgajewski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! It was beautifully written by Lisa Ard and depicted the growth of Asheville, NC in the late 1800's - after the Civil War.

It was a story about farming, the country side, Asheville but more importantly the story of indomitable women who helped to bring education/literacy to the masses. During a period of time when women were subservient to males, the stories of how "common" persistent women brought about change to what was once an agricultural society was inspired!

[Jenn Hudson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so invested in this story from the start. I live in North Carolina and am familiar with the area but found myself looking at maps to understand locations. I found myself wondering about the characters throughout my day, wanting the best for them as if they were my friends. Great story, fabulous storyteller.

[Janine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I want to start this review by saying that if you enjoy historical fiction, don’t let my opinion on this one sway you! I liked this one but also struggled with it quite a bit, and that really stems from the fact that I am super picky with this genre.

I thought it was interesting that the author wrote about her own family history. The story focused on the rise of public education, that was so cool to read about because we all grew up with school just being a regular thing. But in this book, it was a privilege and people had to fight to make school a regular thing.

The writing was brilliantly done, and I enjoyed the little doses of romance woven into the story. My main issue is that the book felt like it dragged a lot. I needed something big and dramatic to happen to keep me invested, and while the basis of the story was cool, I didn’t get that extra plot that I needed.

Thank you to the author for my gifted copy!

[Reader]

At the age of thirty, Alice Harris did not want to marry. She liked her independence. But as a woman, in rural North Carolina, in the 1880’s, with no resources and no opportunities, she had no choice. We follow Alice as she makes a home with her new husband—a much older man whom she barely knew—and tries to find a place in his large, contentious family. Weaving together themes of women’s rights, racial bias, the right to education for all, and people’s often flawed understandings of each other, Lisa Ard tells a compelling story full of drama, grief, intrigue, determination, and, finally, redemption. Told in the first person, the story lets us in on Alice’s innermost thoughts, which don’t always match her outspoken and capable appearance. Letters back and forth between Alice and her sister and her friends provide a creative way to advance the plot and reveal character. Accurately portrayed historical details tell of the extensive research Ard did, and help place us in that long-ago North Carolina community. This is an enjoyable read that, like the best fiction, helps us understand the world a little better.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brighter Than Her Fears by Lisa Ard, immerses the reader in post Civil War western North Carolina, as seen through the eyes of the indomitable Alice Harris. Ard’s vivid descriptions of her characters keeps the reader highly invested in the outcomes of their challenges. Much of the story takes place in Asheville and environs, and because of Ard’s lively writing, the setting becomes an important character in the story, as well. Brighter Than Her Fears focuses on a period in time when some women were beginning to insist upon their own independence, former slaves were navigating life after Emancipation, and public school education was being hotly debated. I just ate this book up!

[Krista · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel. I am relatively unfamiliar with the post-Civil War period, with some exceptions which are largely non-fiction (e.g., Warmth of Other Suns), so this was a very engaging depiction of a South trying to find itself. Once I got going with this book, I didn't want to put it down and found myself annoyed by pesky work tasks that got in the way!
I appreciate the author's addition of weaving in historical facts about the Black experience at this time without a first person perspective, which would have been inauthentic in my opinion. I also found myself drawing parallels between Jo in Little Women with Alice - both forging forward with their agendas for progress, while also navigating the roles and norms of the time for women. And ultimately both involved in education.
And I also admit this book push me to make some travels plans to this area - the author really brought it alive! Highly recommend!!!

[Christina Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and know I will continue to think of it long after turning the last page! The determination and courage of the main character, Alice are both awe-inspiring and thought provoking. I delighted going back in time to post Civil War era in North Carolina; a time and place I knew very little about. I’ve since found myself wanting to learn more about Asheville and Buncombe County and perhaps one day may find myself a tourist there.

[D.K. Marley · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Brighter Than Her Fears" is a captivating book written by Lisa Ard, which takes us back in
time to Asheville, in the year 1882. Amidst the enchanting landscape of the mountainous
region, we follow the fascinating story of Alice Harris and her sister Jennie as they navigate
through the changes brought by war and railroad progress in an era marked by strict beliefs
and conventions.
The novel begins with Alice, a 30-year-old woman, preparing for a marriage she considers
more of a necessity than a desire. While she stifles her own desires and puts aside her heart,
Alice is determined to do everything she can to support her family and, especially, to care for
her younger and more fragile sister, Jennie. In a landscape marked by the changes brought by
war and technological progress, the characters face social pressures and their own doubts and
fears.
An important part of the story is the relationship between Alice and Jennie, the two sisters
who support each other in the face of life's uncertainties and challenges. Alice, with all her
determination and courage, often feels overwhelmed by the responsibility of protecting and
caring for her loved ones, while Jennie navigates the world with sensitivity and a whirlwind
of emotions, often troubled by the changes around her.
As the story unfolds, we meet a series of intriguing supporting characters, such as Elizabeth
Shackton and Margaret, who bring not only vivid colors of society from that era but also new
perspectives and ideals. Intrigues and surprising events unfold in a rich and detailed setting,
offering the reader a captivating panorama of life in Asheville at the end of the 19th century.
An interesting aspect of the book is how the author explores the relationships between
characters and family dynamics. From the complicated relationship with her older husband,
Jasper, to the bonds with her sister, Jennie, and other family members, Alice grapples with
questions about love, loyalty, and independence, navigating through complex emotions and
tense relationships as she seeks her own path in life.
One of the main themes of the book is the struggle for independence and autonomy in a
world where women were often limited by social conventions and societal expectations.
Through Alice's story, the author underscores the importance of self-confidence and finding
one's own voice in a world dominated by male voices.

“Jasper’s lips met mine, and he paused when they quivered. I pressed mine together, willing myself to reach forward and touch my lips to his own. His palm curved around my face and sensuous kisses fell across my mouth, neck, collarbone and elsewhere. With his tender caresses, my body softened. My husband took his time exploring the length of my body, discovering its hidden places. In the light of day, I was large and cumbersome. Tonight I became light and shadow. A flooding warmth replaced the earlier heat I’d experienced. No one had told me what to expect and yet I knew what to do.”

This quote reflects Alice's transformation as she discovers her own sexuality and understands
her body in relation to her husband.
She understands the importance of education in changing people's lives and is determined to
follow her vision, even if it means going against what is expected of a woman in those times.
In the midst of grappling with her own struggles, Alice finds herself facing a complex
dilemma when she wants to contribute more to society. Her attempts to make a difference in
her community often intersect with unexpected obstacles and difficult choices. While she
desires to use her resources and influence to do good in the world around her, Alice faces
moral questions and her own limitations. Faced with challenges and the need to make tough
choices, her internal struggle becomes evident, reflecting the complexity of human dilemmas
and the duty to society.

“Had Elizabeth invited me here with a purpose? Had she sized me up and concluded I was unhappy with the role I must soon take on? With my former life gone, I yearned for a choice in my future and a purpose. Public education might have come too late for Jennie and me, but it would help others. I’d been led like a good horse to marry. Perhaps it was time for me to lead.”

The novel captures the beauty of the bond between Alice and her son, Claude, as well as the
importance of the support she receives from family members and friends in difficult times.
Her relationship with William, a trusted ally, provides crucial support in her quest for justice
and independence.
Through detailed narration and well-defined characters, the author creates a poignant and
inspirational story about the courage and resilience of a woman in the face of life's
adversities. Another remarkable aspect of the book is the complex relationship between the
characters and their evolution over time. Over the years, we see how their bonds strengthen
and how they find mutual support in difficult moments.
Lisa Ard manages to capture the atmosphere and specific characteristics of the period and
place where the action of the book takes place, bringing to life the picturesque landscapes and
vibrant characters.

“The breeze shifted, bringing the scent of roses. I breathed in the sweet smell and swept a dry, brown-edged petal from my skirt, hoping to brush away the melancholy that settled upon us.”
„I pictured the empty porch at home, the quiet bedroom, and no companion with whom to share my days and nights. Since Jasper’s death, I had occupied myself with a multitude of tasks, allowing little time to think. Here in the quiet afternoon, I glimpsed my lonely future in the woman at my side."
“Shame washed over me as I sat on the wooden pew. The sermon on Job held new meaning. Five years ago, Jasper and I had discussed the devil’s trickery within the story. Today my focus turned to Job’s friends questioning his innocence. They asked whether he deserved his afflictions, and he responded with sarcasm, hiding his impatience and fear.”

These excerpts from the book illustrate the author's ability to create vivid and poignant
imagery that captures the essence of the story and brings the emotions and thoughts of the
characters to the forefront.
The book will captivate you from the first pages and linger in your mind long after you finish
it. With well-defined characters, an emotional story, and an authentic setting, this book is
definitely worth reading and appreciating by all who love quality literature.
Lisa Ard skillfully blends elements of history, society, and interpersonal relationships in a
captivating and emotional story about the courage to rise against conventions and follow your
heart in a world full of challenges and changes. "Brighter than Her Fears" is a captivating and
emotional book that explores important themes such as love, independence, and identity in a
world dominated by social conventions and rigid expectations. With complex characters and
a captivating story, this book is recommended reading for those interested in historical fiction
and the exploration of the human condition. It is a captivating read that will impress and
inspire readers alike.

***********

“Brighter Than Her Fear” by Lisa Ard receives five stars from The Historical Fiction Company

[ACM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written exploration of subjects I knew little about, so I learned a lot! I'd never even thought about how public schooling got started, how different regions had unique challenges and timelines getting public education underway, how hard it was to get people to warm to the idea that the new world would require new skills and knowledge, and that it's important to educate all children. Interesting to think about in current context, too, when we're reexamining what kinds of education will best serve modern day children, and what our responsibilities are to communities outside our own immediate neighborhoods. And that women could be instrumental in driving those changes in a time when women had no voice or power was interesting to read about.

The characters and scenes of everyday life in "Brighter Than Her Fears" are deeply researched and vividly drawn, my favorite moments being the small specific details of the ways people did everyday things, so different from our digital and electronic ways today. Alice’s honesty, intelligence and pragmatism made her a wonderful main character. Also interesting were dynamics between the only recently freed population and the landowners, as written from Alice's perspective, a modern thinker for her time but also a product of her time. Her voice is absolutely fantastic, expertly written main characters. I thoroughly enjoyed reading - thought a lot and learned a lot. Loved it!

[Ariana Ochoa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lisa Ard's Brighter Than Her Fears is a compelling historical fiction novel based in the late 19th century during the women's rights movement.

The story focuses on Alice Harris in 1882 North Carolina. After the death of her father and ruination of the family inn, Alice agrees to marry a tobacco farmer twice her age (Jasper Carter) to secure her future. As Alice adjusts to rural living, she recognizes a need for formal education. Emboldened by her friends in a growing city, she joins the movement for public education but is met with opposition by the Carter men.

When I read the first couple of pages of this story, I had no idea how dynamic this book would be. Of all the books that I read this month, this was the book that I often found myself reaching for. Lisa Ard realistically captured the inequality and insecurity of women left with very little options in life. Fraught with many tragedies, I am in awe of Alice's strength and her perseverance in the midst of adversity. The story is not a fairytale. It is raw with themes of loss, hardship, inequality, and racism. What is most endearing is the devotion Alice has for her family and friends. She is a force to be reckoned with.

Many thanks to Lisa Ard for a copy of this book for my honest review. I am completely honored to have read about your family's story during such a significant time.

[Charlotte Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an inspiration to read Brighter Than Her Fears by Lisa Ard. A work of historical fiction the author tells the story of a woman based on her great-great grandmother who, despite incredibly restrictive laws for women, takes up the cause of public education—and succeeds.

The time is Reconstruction, post-Civil War, North Carolina and the narrator Alice is financially forced into a marriage with a man her senior, whom she hardly knows. This in itself makes for an interesting story. Will she be happy with her older husband? What will be required of her on a tobacco farm where labor is limited? What will be her relationship with her twelve-year-old stepson?

The book takes us through the course of her marriage, into family misunderstandings, and finally a court case that results in the fulfillment of her dream, the building of a public school in her town of Democrat, North Carolina. The depth of details in this story provide an immersive experience for the reader who is rooting for the protagonist yet understands the severe restrictions under which she can maneuver. Kudos to the author for a delightful, educational tale.

[Joanne Guidoccio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Ard has crafted a powerful novel set against the backdrop of the post-Civil War period in western North Carolina.

Thirty-year-old Alice Harris (the author’s great-great-grandmother) faces an uncertain future after the sudden death of her father and the family’s subsequent financial ruin. She enters a marriage with Jasper Carter, a Civil War veteran who is twice her age, with low expectations. To her astonishment, she survives and thrives as she learns to farm tobacco, love her husband, and raise her stepson. When tragedy strikes, she is forced to reinvent herself once more and fight for her independence and property rights.

Told in the first person, we are privy to Alice’s innermost thoughts and feelings. The use of letters between Alice, her sister, and her friends further advances the plot and provides insights into the lives and motivations of the secondary characters.

If you enjoy reading historical fiction about women who persevere despite their circumstances, you will love this book.

[Dannie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned so much from this book, the amount of research that went into it is evident! The descriptions were so detailed, I felt like I really was in that place and time: the style of clothing and trends, home decor choices like the color of wallpaper and what it said about a family to be able to afford nice rugs.
The main character, based on the author’s own ancestor, was really inspiring. All the implications of being a woman in that time period, such as the requisite dependency on men, felt real in a way I hadn’t experienced in a book before. The fact that she continued to advocate and work for public schooling despite her own uncertain future is all the most impressive. Even though I intellectually knew women couldn’t vote back then, it still surprised me when I realized she and the other women couldn’t even vote on the result of all their hard work to get it on the ballot.
I will be read this one again in the future, as I know there will be new things I discover.

[Chelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I've read, and my new favorite historical fiction.

The author beautifully conjures and immerses us into a bygone era, where we easily become invested with Alice as she walks her winding path into the future.

In our modern world, so many of us have taken a DNA test or explored our ancestry.com.

It's magical to see what it would be like if we traisped through our heritage and _just so happened_ to be a talented writer who along the way can weave a captivating, compelling story to share with the world.

Don't miss out on an early read of this gem! It's sure to find itself to book clubs, stores, and reading lists for years to come!

[Reader George B · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very well written historical fiction of a young woman’s journey soon after the civil war. It is based in the area of a growing city of Asheville North Carolina. The story shows the challenge women faced and the effort to provide public education to the area.

[Martha Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this novel, Author Lisa Ard gives us a window into the challenges that women faced in the post-Civil War South. The protagonist is thirty-year-old Alice Harris, who is the author’s great-great-grandmother. Ard skillfully brings to life this intelligent, feisty woman who had run out of options. Her parents have died and her family farm is ruined. That era offered women few ways to support themselves so Alice takes her only chance, marrying a man twice her age whom she barely knows. She enters into the marriage with Jasper Carter with low expectations, but there are surprises. And tragedy. But Alice is a survivor. The story is told from her point of view and we watch Alice grow into a brave, tenacious woman who fights to protect her livelihood and her children, and becomes an advocate for public schools. The novel is a good reminder of the many things we take for granted today that required great sacrifices from people who went before us. Ard also does a good job highlighting the challenges faced by the newly freed slaves in this area. Through Alice’s eyes, we see the legacy of slavery and prejudice that has to be overcome, but we also a rare victory for the Black community.
Ard paints a well-researched picture of Asheville and the surrounding area in the 1880s, a time of great change. Anyone who is curious about the lives of ordinary people in this time and place should pick up Brighter Than Her Fears. Kudos to Ard for digging deeply into her family history and finding a story that resonates even today.
I received an Advanced Readers’ Copy of this book.

[John Farrauto · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the first page because the author writes in the first person I felt the main character was right there with me. I became involved in her journey into an arranged marriage to an older man. His sensitivity to her on their wedding night was a pleasant surprise given the period it described. Her growing love for him , having his children while also helping to raise his son and pursuing her interests made her admirable. Coping with his death and the ensuing court battle was well done( as a lawyer I could appreciate the ultimate settlement which I found realistic). One can sense the pending romance between the lawyer and client despite the wide age difference . Her story reminded me of The Indigo girl. The writing was crisp, descriptive and easy. My only regret was that the story ended when it did. Overall a good read

[Ronnie Egger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hi All,

I'm new at trying to rate books, but I got to read "Brighter Than Her Fears" by Lisa Ard and due for release in January. It's historical fiction and a shame it won't be available to use as a holiday gift. Lisa has woven a tale of life in Asheville, North Carolina in the late 1800s after researching information about a relative who lived in that time period. It's an interesting read, a glimpse of life as it was in that area of North Carolina after the Civil War, and a loving look into the life of a woman who was seemingly born a couple of generations too early.

I'll get a copy for our library when it comes out, but if you have need of a gift for someone after it's available, do consider it ~ it will provide that enjoyable time one can spend with a good book. Ronnie

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a well-written and engaging book! I don’t typically read historical fiction, but was asked to be an advance reader for this book, which I was delighted to do. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Brighter Than Her Fears. I was captivated by Alice – the author did an excellent job with her character development. I felt like I was in the same room with Alice – through her arranged marriage to a much older Civil War veteran, her integration into his family and farm life, and her work around women’s rights and educational access - I was completely absorbed by the book and had a hard time putting it down! It’s too bad it’s not been published in time for holiday gift-giving, although it can be pre-ordered. A terrific read!

[Catherine Rittenhouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Alice captured my imagination from the first pages. It's themes of transformation, love, sheer stubbornness and intelligent creativity as a path to fulfillment kept me reading to the end. The supporting characters were well drawn. There was a great sidekick, the development of unexpected love, a thoughtfully portrayed villain and a rousing courtroom scene. Inspired by a true story, this entry novel in the historical fiction genre hits all the marks of a good read. I think I would have liked Alice. Higher praise can't be given.

[Lisa Carlier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This first book by author Lisa Ard is a breath of fresh air. It is not a romance, but it has some of that. It is not a mystery, but has some of that too. It's about a young woman with no prospects, who must marry a man she doesn't know, who will take care of her. But Alice doesn't stop there, she has plans to make something of herself and improve the lives of others so they won't wind up in a similar fate. She certainly does that! I love this story and I recommend it.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful enlightening novel that tells the story of a strong, determined woman. I have a granddaughter interested in women's rights and this is exactly the story she will enjoy. It offers lots of solid information about the post civil war south. Along the way, it also offers the example of being determined enough to overcome adversity. A solid read!
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.

[Kathleen Oneil · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lisa Ard’s story is a historical fiction inspired by her great great grandmother’s experience in the 1800’s. About the rise of public education and women’s rights. Alice The independent woman that fought for her land and for her children to have an education. The writing was excellent. But I found myself uninterested in the meetings the women and some men were pushing to have public education. The authors notes filled in all the gaps and all the questions I I had were answered.

[Rebecca Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brighter Than Her Fears by Lisa Ard is a richly atmospheric historical novel with a strong, resilient heroine at its heart. The writing is detailed and immersive, transporting readers to a time when survival required both courage and cleverness. I especially appreciated the blend of family dynamics and social commentary woven seamlessly throughout the story. The emotionally satisfying conclusion made it a compelling read that leaves me eager to see what Ard writes next!

[Nleene · Rating 5 out of 5]

This historical fiction tells the story of the author’s great-great grandmother fighting for her independence, her family and public education in North Carolina amid the post Civil War growth in Asheville. It is a well written, engaging and informative look at the challenges and struggles of life during this time and the women determined to make changes.

[Marty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well done with good story development, on target as to time and place. Tobacco farming and life in this rural setting was informative and engaging. Based on a true story, life in the past comes alive to this reader and shows universality to modern times.