The Perfect Stranger

by Dan Walsh

It is the spring in New York City, 1912, and Lily Whitaker, a wealthy young socialite, is in love. While serving at a ministry to the poor in her church, she meets a handsome young businessman. Charles Bennington moved to New York from San Francisco 10 years ago with just the clothes on his back. But he's worked hard, taken every advantage the good Lord's provided and now owns a thriving business. He can hardly believe it when he caught Lily's attention and, later, receives permission from her father to court her. Two months after that, he agrees to let Charles marry Lily, who's overjoyed at the news. Charles secures first-class tickets for their honeymoon on the return voyage back to England on the RMS Titanic. Like the ill-fated ship, something happens that threatens to sink their plans and turn both their lives upside down. Is the wedding now off? Will Charles lose everything and be forced to take a train back to San Francisco?

This can't be how the story ends.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian, Audiobook, Suspense, Romance

320 pages, Paperback

Published November 24, 2024

About the author

Dan Walsh is the bestselling author of 27 novels including The Unfinished Gift, When Night Comes and The Reunion. Over 1.3 million copies of his books are in print or downloaded. He's won 3 Carol Awards (finalist 6 times), 4 Selah Awards and 4 of his books have been finalists for RT Review’s Inspirational Book of the Year. His novels have received over 47,000 Amazon reviews (4.7 Avg).

A member of Word Weavers International and ACFW, Dan writes fulltime in the Daytona Beach area. He and his wife Cindi have been married 46 years. You can find out more about his books or follow him on other social media sites from his website at http://www.danwalshbooks.com.

Reviews

[Joy Kidney · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a compelling historical novel with themes of secrets, betrayal, compassion, love, integrity, forgiveness set in the days train travel and of the renowned Titanic. I especially enjoyed the character of Nigel Whitaker, the father of the heroine Lily.

[Carmi Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always, an amazing story from Dan Walsh!

I thoroughly enjoyed Dan Walsh's latest book. I love books that make me want to research a setting, a subject or an event and this had me looking into several. Lily Whitaker and Charles Bennington meet in New York City when Charles makes a delivery to the soup kitchen where she is volunteering. Charles owns a growing "artificial ice" business and this was one of the first things the the story made me want to research. His story is truly a rags to riches tale. The couple eventually gets engaged and all seems well until an incident from Charles' past comes to light. Lily, Charles and Lily's family and her church family are forced to examine their prejudices and are called to look and handle things the way Jesus would. Good triumphs in the end as it should and the journey is worth the time to read. Highly recommend this book to fans of Dan Walsh!

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in the early 1900s, this story gives an enjoyable glimpse into life in the US when cars were starting to take over from horse drawn carts, changes were coming in how ice was made/harvested, and not everyone had access to a telephone. The love story is well-handled, there is suspense involved with opponents to the aspiring entrepreneur, and I liked the main characters (but not the bad guys). I like this kind of historical fiction that helps me see history through the people who lived it. Walsh does a good job on the spiritual aspect as well, in applying God's Word to people's everyday lives.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Different from my usual read

While The Perfect Stranger was not the kind of book I'd normally pick up, I chose to read it because the author Dan Walsh hasu written some of my favorite books (The Unfinished Gift is my all time favorite Christmas book). This one took me a bit longer to get into, but when false rumors started to spread about Charles and destroyed his engagement to Lily, I put on my detective hat and was pretty sure I knew the culprit. But would they solve the mystery in time to salvage Charles's reputation? It's a good plot and an enjoyable read, highly recommend.

[Marilyn Kuchma · Rating 3 out of 5]

not a typical Dan Walsh novel

I’m not sure where this novel falls in Mr Walsh’s novels numerically but it feels like maybe one of his early ones because it seems almost juvenile and it isn’t one I’d ever read again unlike so many of his others. It’s not that it is bad, it just seems childish. Some things happen which don’t get resolved (the troubles at the ice factory for example) and then the childish notes that attempt to disrupt the couple’s happiness. Anyway, it’s not really my cup of tea but it’s might be worth while to read if you intend on reading all the books he has written.

[Kathleen Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Perfect Stranger

Dan Walsh's novel captivated me from the first page, compelling me to read through its entirety in just three days. The characters were remarkably well-developed, feeling so authentic that they seemed to leap off the page. Walsh crafted an exceptional love story that resonated deeply, drawing me into the narrative with his masterful storytelling. His ability to create such engaging prose leaves me eagerly anticipating his future works, confident they will be equally enthralling.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable novel. Dan Walsh is a great story teller, and I always enjoy his books and characters. I thought the theme about the damage of gossip and slander was very well presented. The historical setting and details were very interesting. Lots of details about the ice business, train travel, the Titanic, the San Francisco earthquake, and the early days of automobiles. Overall a very good read.

[Sharon Rudolph · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing! I totally love the historical aspect of it, and seeing how things were at the turn of the century. I loved the characters! The storyline kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t put thebook down, because I had to know what happened at the end! The mystery grabbed my heart. Dan Walsh is an amazing author and this book is one that definitely should be read!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Read

I don’t leave reviews often but Dan Walsh is a favorite author of mine because how he writes makes me feel like I’m right there with the characters in the story. I was equally not disappointed reading The Perfect Stranger and look forward to his next and then the next and know I will greatly enjoy reading them all!

[Alan Redrup · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful and Suspenseful

I have loved many of Mr. Walsh’s books. This is my first of his many historical suspenseful romance books. So well written and surprisingly suspenseful. It also teaching some valuable life lessons. As always, he has made me want to read all of his books. 5 star!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful story of just how God’s plan comes to fruition not matter how the enemy tries to stop it. It’s a story of just how true the scripture is that the power of life and death is in the tongue.

I was totally engrossed in this story of forgiveness and redemption and look forward to more by this author.

[Jonathon Robert Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Perfect Stranger is an inspirational love story. At first, it was a fairy tale romance. He was a pauper who later became a successful businessman, and she was a princess. Until, Lily, her family, and their church discovered things they could have never imagined about him. The whole church and their lives are turned upside down.

I described this book as inspirational because it took great courage to love, trust, and forgive. But it is something Christ calls us all to do. I love how the author references various scriptures throughout the story as these events unfold. The story has many twists and turns throughout, which makes for an epic adventure. Thanks, Dan for a great story.

[Maria Campos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel that has a historical backdrop early in the twentieth century. It was refreshing to read of a strong sense of morality that society had at the time. Also to see that diligence and integrity could bring
bring an individual prosperity

[Sherry and Douglas Doornink · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical mystery/romance

Dan, as always, you did a very good job with your characters. The plot was a little slow in developing, and, in typical fashion you finished with a heart swelling climax to praise our Good Father. Will there be more stories of our police friends , and the Professor, down South?
Your writings certainly praise and glorify our Maker!

[John Rallios · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable historical piece of romantic fiction. I wouldn't call it a mystery since it was so obvious who the culprit. Neither would I call it suspenseful since it was completely predictable. But it was well written and had both good and despicable characters as well as wholesome message of love, faith, and forgiveness, which was why it earned four stars.

[Norbert Markiewicz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dan Walsh hits it out of the ballpark again with this one. His writing has you living the story with all your senses. The characters of early 1900s New York are dignified, yet timeless. Dan has the gift for weaving in historic events that add a richer dimension. Can't wait to read the sequel, which everyone is raving about.

[Vicki Carson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Perfect Book

Again Dan Walsh writes the sort of book you don't want to put down! I was always wondering what would happen next! Thanks for giving us such wonderful books!
Love the cover!

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great Book!

The Perfect Stranger is set in the early 1900s. The San Francisco earthquake plays a part in the story. Also Gramercy Park, which caused me to do a little research on my own.

[Judith Welbaum · Rating 5 out of 5]

ice from a river?

This was an excellent book. I have read just about all of his books and love his writing style!!!! This one was pleasantly different but truly enjoyed it!!! Don’t miss it!!!

[S.campbell8655yahoo.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent as always

I'm so thankful I have found Mr. Walsh ,he nails it eveytime ! Excellent suspense with an inspiring story. All while keeping it real and clean. I highly recommend this book and all the others as well.

[TERRY GRUBBS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this exciting book, a must read

From the beginning to the end, I could hardly put it down. I really liked how the characters in the book were real Christians, with real Christian character. I hope others w Love this book as much as I do...

[Shawn Davidson · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is a looot a lot of repetition over everything. It’s very annoying. I mean it’s a decent story just man, it repeats everything that’s happening so many times you just roll your eyes and like “mooove on. We just heard this” that’s why I gave it a 3.

[Debora Whipple · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Perfect Stranger

I loved reading this book. I even searched Google to see pictures of the Vanderbilt mansion. The story is well written, the characters are interesting, and real.

[Caroline Schauer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unexpected Twist

I almost stopped reading this book as soon as I read they'd be going on the Titanic, but I'm so glad I didn't! Thank you for the clear scriptural references and philosophy, it was very enjoyable!

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book by Dan Walsh! It was a gripping book, set in 1914. The history of that time period was fascinating, especially the ice business! The characters are well developed and the plot is a page turner. I can't wait to read Book 2, Scandal at the Belmont!

[David Laflin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily Whittaker seems to have found the perfect partner in Charles Bennington. Bit not all is at it appears to be as Lily receives notes after her engagement is announced telling her that Charles is not the man he says he is. What secret is Charles hiding ? As Lily's family gets to know Charles they become more trusting of him as he appears to be genuine. But secrets will be revealed.
Set in the early 1900's this story holds the readers attention right through to the last page.

[Janet Wess · Rating 5 out of 5]

great book

The Perfect Stranger by Dan Walsh was a very enjoyable book to read! Dan’s books are always interesting and engaging. The Gilded Age was an interesting time in our history.

[Anthony R Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, Dan you did it again.

What a wonderful story. Great writing, excellent characters, A good story line with some twist and turns. Someone does not want Charles and Lily to find happiness and true love. Mystery, sabotage, and redemption.

[Emily Barfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Great inspirational Book.

Really enjoyed reading this book. I highly recommend, and am loading book 2 of this series shortly. I like books that promotes
Christian values and has the courage to step up when needed.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Perfect Stranger is book 1 of the Gilded Secrets series by Dan Walsh. This was a very enjoyable read. History, family, faith, gossip (oh my), and a romance worth believing in. Leaves you with a smile.