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The White Flower
Rachel Rainsford should be excited. She was on a train traveling across the US to a well-paid position as an old lady's companion. But after several hours spent with the man who hired her and is accompanying her on her journey, she's having doubts. His manner seems strange, and she may have acted too hastily in accepting a job so far from home.
Meanwhile, in the parlor car, Chan Prescott overhears two men concocting a plan to abduct a young woman. When her name is mentioned, Chan recognizes it as the daughter of a former beloved teacher. Thus begins the daring escape that includes jumping off (and on) trains; wild car rides; a society house party; and the threat of incarceration in an insane asylum!
Grace Livingston Hill, well known for her Christian romances, was equally adept at thrilling suspense (see also her novel "The Red Signal").
Meanwhile, in the parlor car, Chan Prescott overhears two men concocting a plan to abduct a young woman. When her name is mentioned, Chan recognizes it as the daughter of a former beloved teacher. Thus begins the daring escape that includes jumping off (and on) trains; wild car rides; a society house party; and the threat of incarceration in an insane asylum!
Grace Livingston Hill, well known for her Christian romances, was equally adept at thrilling suspense (see also her novel "The Red Signal").
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First published January 1, 1927
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About the author
Grace Livingston Hill
591 books569 followersalso wrote under the pseudonym Marcia MacDonald
also published under the name Grace Livingston Hill Lutz
A popular author of her day, she wrote over 100 novels and numerous short stories of religious and Christian fiction. Her characters were most often young female ingénues, frequently strong Christian women or those who become so within the confines of the story.
niece to Isabella MacDonald Alden
also published under the name Grace Livingston Hill Lutz
A popular author of her day, she wrote over 100 novels and numerous short stories of religious and Christian fiction. Her characters were most often young female ingénues, frequently strong Christian women or those who become so within the confines of the story.
niece to Isabella MacDonald Alden
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 4, 2020
I like redheads.
While I believe that a woman can be attractive with any hair color--even one that can't be natural, such as cobalt blue--I will always have a special place in my heart for ladies with auburn hair. Even some of my favorite celebrities and/or fictional characters over the years have had hair that shade, ranging from Chelsea Daniels (That's So Raven) to Anne Robinson (Weakest Link) to to Kyra Hart (Reba) to Amy Adams.
So, as both a fan of Christian fiction and redheads, when I saw this novel at my local thrift store, of course I picked it up! I've read some of Grace Livingston Hill's writings before, but, it's been a long time; now, I realize I should have delved into her works more! Instead of being a merely lovey-dovey story, this book has elements of suspense; even though you'll see the conclusion coming a mile away, the plot was still exciting. Now, I need to find some other works by this author; it's been so long since I've read any of hers, they'd all be new to me!
While I believe that a woman can be attractive with any hair color--even one that can't be natural, such as cobalt blue--I will always have a special place in my heart for ladies with auburn hair. Even some of my favorite celebrities and/or fictional characters over the years have had hair that shade, ranging from Chelsea Daniels (That's So Raven) to Anne Robinson (Weakest Link) to to Kyra Hart (Reba) to Amy Adams.
So, as both a fan of Christian fiction and redheads, when I saw this novel at my local thrift store, of course I picked it up! I've read some of Grace Livingston Hill's writings before, but, it's been a long time; now, I realize I should have delved into her works more! Instead of being a merely lovey-dovey story, this book has elements of suspense; even though you'll see the conclusion coming a mile away, the plot was still exciting. Now, I need to find some other works by this author; it's been so long since I've read any of hers, they'd all be new to me!
October 12, 2020
A 1927 Christian thriller. Train jumping! Hiding out in the woods! High-speed getaways! Human trafficking! Locking up innocent people in insane asylums! And on top of all that, poor Rachel is worried that she's lost her hat. I don't think I will ever understand the importance of hats to people back then.
All in all, not great literature, but a fun and exciting diversion from everyday life.
All in all, not great literature, but a fun and exciting diversion from everyday life.
July 4, 2022
Rating: 5 / 5
Out of all of Grace Livingston Hill's books (from those that I've read so far), this is by far the most plot-driven of her works. Also, it is the longest of what I've read so far, and contains the least amount of Christian material in it. (Picks up a bit at the end with the lessons of Christianity, but I can safely say that the first two thirds of the novel are purely plot-based and not preachy.)
The premise sets us within an atmosphere of suspense right away: innocent Rachel Rainsford has been unknowingly tricked into a job, the likes of which she was not informed. What she thinks will mean companionship to a sweet old lady is in fact a different sort of "companionship" to a despicable older man interested in a young and fresh woman. Fortunately, young, handsome, and righteous Chan Prescott overhears the plan of the villains and sets about rescuing Rachel, who is the daughter of his favourite high school professor. What then follows is an action-packed tale of jumping on and off trains, constantly being on the run, and constantly having to watch out lest they are thrown into insane asylums. WOW--a lot to unpack there!
Generally, I'm used to tamer things from GLH, but in this case, I was not disappointed in reading a lot of action in her plots either. The cover of the novel in itself suggested to me that there would be a lot of suspense, and boy was there! A few cliffhangers at the end of some chapters also suggested this, and had me putting this as my priority read, even though there are several others that I could rightly have read alongside it.
Maybe because it's the most plot-centric of Hill's works, I think that it's moved up to the top spot of also being my favourite, because there is never a dull moment to be had with out two young heroes! For someone interested in the Christian element of Hill's works, you might want to try another one of her stories, but, contrariwise, if you're a reader who loves a clean, pure romance coupled with adventure and narrow escapes, then this might just be the sweet-and-happy-ending book for you!
Out of all of Grace Livingston Hill's books (from those that I've read so far), this is by far the most plot-driven of her works. Also, it is the longest of what I've read so far, and contains the least amount of Christian material in it. (Picks up a bit at the end with the lessons of Christianity, but I can safely say that the first two thirds of the novel are purely plot-based and not preachy.)
The premise sets us within an atmosphere of suspense right away: innocent Rachel Rainsford has been unknowingly tricked into a job, the likes of which she was not informed. What she thinks will mean companionship to a sweet old lady is in fact a different sort of "companionship" to a despicable older man interested in a young and fresh woman. Fortunately, young, handsome, and righteous Chan Prescott overhears the plan of the villains and sets about rescuing Rachel, who is the daughter of his favourite high school professor. What then follows is an action-packed tale of jumping on and off trains, constantly being on the run, and constantly having to watch out lest they are thrown into insane asylums. WOW--a lot to unpack there!
Generally, I'm used to tamer things from GLH, but in this case, I was not disappointed in reading a lot of action in her plots either. The cover of the novel in itself suggested to me that there would be a lot of suspense, and boy was there! A few cliffhangers at the end of some chapters also suggested this, and had me putting this as my priority read, even though there are several others that I could rightly have read alongside it.
Maybe because it's the most plot-centric of Hill's works, I think that it's moved up to the top spot of also being my favourite, because there is never a dull moment to be had with out two young heroes! For someone interested in the Christian element of Hill's works, you might want to try another one of her stories, but, contrariwise, if you're a reader who loves a clean, pure romance coupled with adventure and narrow escapes, then this might just be the sweet-and-happy-ending book for you!
October 27, 2008
Omigosh, I have a new favorite Hill book.
---
The year is 1927.
Quiet, lovely Rachel Rainsford has just lost her scholarly father, and is alone in the world. Out of financial necessity, she takes a position as companion to an elderly lady on the other side of the country. Rachel embarks on the train trip with misgivings, for she feels apprehensive about the gentleman who is assigned to escort her; but she quiets her worries by telling herself she is simply shy and old-fashioned, there's nothing to be worried about--nothing at all.
Then, a strange young man walks past her in the train car, and drops a note in her lap: "Don't look startled! Sit quietly and read this. That man that seems to be with you is going to beat it in Chicago and leave you in the hands of an old crook who has taken a fancy to you. They've told the conductor that you are insane and they are taking you to an asylum. If you would like me to help you, take your hat off and lay it on the seat beside you..."
What should she do? Which stranger should she trust?
---
And so begins a thrilling story told in the best classic style of adventure. An independent, resourceful heroine must entrust her safety to a dangerously charming World War One veteran. The two embark on a cross-country race with planes, trains, and automobiles; during which Rachel tries to escape from an unthinkable evil--and the powerful attraction she feels toward her rescuer.
A message of faith is woven into the story through Chan Prescott, who has spent his wild young life righting wrongs and carrying out vengeance where it was deserved. Now he must face his own mortality, and learn that the only way he can win the love he wants is to die to his own desires.
The setting is brilliantly painted. The novel takes place during a time when great cities seethe with a hidden underworld; the elegance of society masks vicious crimes; and a person can very easily disappear from the face of the earth.
---
The year is 1927.
Quiet, lovely Rachel Rainsford has just lost her scholarly father, and is alone in the world. Out of financial necessity, she takes a position as companion to an elderly lady on the other side of the country. Rachel embarks on the train trip with misgivings, for she feels apprehensive about the gentleman who is assigned to escort her; but she quiets her worries by telling herself she is simply shy and old-fashioned, there's nothing to be worried about--nothing at all.
Then, a strange young man walks past her in the train car, and drops a note in her lap: "Don't look startled! Sit quietly and read this. That man that seems to be with you is going to beat it in Chicago and leave you in the hands of an old crook who has taken a fancy to you. They've told the conductor that you are insane and they are taking you to an asylum. If you would like me to help you, take your hat off and lay it on the seat beside you..."
What should she do? Which stranger should she trust?
---
And so begins a thrilling story told in the best classic style of adventure. An independent, resourceful heroine must entrust her safety to a dangerously charming World War One veteran. The two embark on a cross-country race with planes, trains, and automobiles; during which Rachel tries to escape from an unthinkable evil--and the powerful attraction she feels toward her rescuer.
A message of faith is woven into the story through Chan Prescott, who has spent his wild young life righting wrongs and carrying out vengeance where it was deserved. Now he must face his own mortality, and learn that the only way he can win the love he wants is to die to his own desires.
The setting is brilliantly painted. The novel takes place during a time when great cities seethe with a hidden underworld; the elegance of society masks vicious crimes; and a person can very easily disappear from the face of the earth.
October 5, 2024
A bit predictable and preachy, but enjoyable!
April 5, 2025
This was a fun romp with lots of suspense, intrigue, and the beauty that Hill brings to so many of her novels. I think this book has one of the best speeches on why making hasty decisions based on physical attraction is dangerous.
I totally enjoyed this novel and the narration.
I totally enjoyed this novel and the narration.
June 6, 2022
I love Grace Livingston Hill books. They offer a glimpse into a different time in a way much more real than books written now and looking back.
As such, I was a little taken aback about her willingness to let flappers "get what they deserve." A little harsh, Grace, a little harsh.
At the same time, I love the high ideals and standards that were placed upon Christians then--good goals upon which to aspire.
As such, I was a little taken aback about her willingness to let flappers "get what they deserve." A little harsh, Grace, a little harsh.
At the same time, I love the high ideals and standards that were placed upon Christians then--good goals upon which to aspire.
March 17, 2017
Rachel Rainsford is alone in the world, which is probably why she made such a colossal mistake as answering that ad to be a companion to a "sweet old lady" somewhere far away. So begins a story of HUMAN TRAFFICKING that totally caught me by surprise. Way to be relevant almost a hundred years after going into print!!!
Thankfully Ray (as she is later called) has a young man named Chan (ok it threw me too) to act as rescuer. Even if he's not particularly good at the job. Lots of adventure ensues that takes you across the country in the 1920s and all the way to a lunatic asylum (so not politically correct, but this is the way things were back then. Deal with it). Exciting and with just the right balance of faith and romance to round this out into a stunning example of Grace's work.
Thankfully Ray (as she is later called) has a young man named Chan (ok it threw me too) to act as rescuer. Even if he's not particularly good at the job. Lots of adventure ensues that takes you across the country in the 1920s and all the way to a lunatic asylum (so not politically correct, but this is the way things were back then. Deal with it). Exciting and with just the right balance of faith and romance to round this out into a stunning example of Grace's work.
October 14, 2008
The most endearing novel that I've read. My FAVORITE book, no contest. Old-fashioned charm with subtle romance and lots of thrill. Too bad I don't have my own copy. It's so frustrating, I could almost cry.
October 21, 2025
Everything you wish for in a Grace Livingston Hill story! Bravo!
July 12, 2021
Hold on to your horses, because whatever you normally expect from a Grace Livingston Hill novel, this is not it!
From it's rather innocuous title, one would never suspect that this 1927 Christian romance would be chock full of danger, mayhem, and thrills! And while some of the more racy bits were definitely sugar coated, glossed over, or spoken of in euphemism (I mean, we all know Rachel was going to be sold into a brothel or sex slavery...but it was never stated implicitly), it was still one of Hill's more daring novels. I mean, what other Hill novel includes jumping trains, breaking into (and escaping from) insane asylums, midnight plane and train rides, and beatings in dark alleys? This story was just one dramatic undertaking after another, and I ate it up!
In fact, this book was so dramatic, I almost had a mild attack of anxiety (I tend to read GLH as a calming influence on my life...not to get my action/adventure thriller high). I remarked at one point to my husband, that this novel would have made a great movie - the plot was practically begging for a screen play! So much action was taking place that I struggled to find a good point to put the book down and go to sleep! How could I possibly sleep when they just escaped the villains, only to have them show up, invited to the house party they were using as a cover? Duh, duh, ddduuuhh!!! Will they be able to catch their friend's midnight plane in order to escape?
Overall, if you are looking for a quiet, easy, read, this might not be the GLH book to choose. However, if you want to read an exciting 1927 gangster flick of a Christian romance, by all means pick this one up! It was a great read, and while definitely out of character with most of the other Hill novels I've read to date, still an incredibly enjoyable change of pace! 5 stars all around!
From it's rather innocuous title, one would never suspect that this 1927 Christian romance would be chock full of danger, mayhem, and thrills! And while some of the more racy bits were definitely sugar coated, glossed over, or spoken of in euphemism (I mean, we all know Rachel was going to be sold into a brothel or sex slavery...but it was never stated implicitly), it was still one of Hill's more daring novels. I mean, what other Hill novel includes jumping trains, breaking into (and escaping from) insane asylums, midnight plane and train rides, and beatings in dark alleys? This story was just one dramatic undertaking after another, and I ate it up!
In fact, this book was so dramatic, I almost had a mild attack of anxiety (I tend to read GLH as a calming influence on my life...not to get my action/adventure thriller high). I remarked at one point to my husband, that this novel would have made a great movie - the plot was practically begging for a screen play! So much action was taking place that I struggled to find a good point to put the book down and go to sleep! How could I possibly sleep when they just escaped the villains, only to have them show up, invited to the house party they were using as a cover? Duh, duh, ddduuuhh!!! Will they be able to catch their friend's midnight plane in order to escape?
Overall, if you are looking for a quiet, easy, read, this might not be the GLH book to choose. However, if you want to read an exciting 1927 gangster flick of a Christian romance, by all means pick this one up! It was a great read, and while definitely out of character with most of the other Hill novels I've read to date, still an incredibly enjoyable change of pace! 5 stars all around!
November 6, 2016
As a child, my father's mother (Ma Clem) read the Bible daily and would occasionally read a Grace Livingston Hill and pass it on to me. I read a number of Hill's works and the description of this title seems familiar. I did like this at the time, probably in the early to mid-60s. I might try to find one to read over the holidays this year, now that both my father and Ma Clem have passed. (His favorite author was Clive Cussler, and I might just read an early Cussler novel also.)
March 2, 2017
This was not one of my favorite books by Hill. The story was cute, but I didn't like the main guy a lot. He seemed to come to faith a little to conveniently right when he wanted to get with the girl.
June 14, 2022
I have read several novels by Grace Livingston Hill, and generally enjoy them. I was somewhat surprised at this book's relevance almost 100 years later, as the main plot centered around a situation that unfortunately is still a real danger for women today (trafficking). Important messages in the story are to be careful who you trust, and don't be afraid to accept help from people. The story was full of action and close calls, an admirable and clean romance, and a satisfactory resolution.
Recommended for people who enjoy historical, clean romance that includes Christian characters and conversations about faith.
Recommended for people who enjoy historical, clean romance that includes Christian characters and conversations about faith.
August 2, 2024
Grace Livingston Hill rarely disappoints. Her novels, written in the early 1900s, now read like historical fiction, and that's why I like them. They'll always have a happy end, but HOW that end gets here is the good part. She never takes a straight path. "The White Flower" zigs and zags from one train to another while the characters attempt to foil a kidnapping with lots of twists and turns. The Christian message also delivers. I only wish she had written more than 100+ books...
September 9, 2018
Enduring love story is accurate for this book
I am a huge fan of Grace L. Hill. No surprise that I like this book as well. Has a lot of the things I like in a good read: mystery, adventure, and a sense of hope that true love is out there. I appreciate the clean, old fashioned writing.
I am a huge fan of Grace L. Hill. No surprise that I like this book as well. Has a lot of the things I like in a good read: mystery, adventure, and a sense of hope that true love is out there. I appreciate the clean, old fashioned writing.
July 21, 2019
What a perfect HEA!
This is another of my GLH favorites. There's excitement, adventure, and true love.
The Obsession of Victoria Gracen and The Gold Shoe as well as Ladybird are really fun reads. Not all of her books are five star books, but these are definitely worth the time and money.
This is another of my GLH favorites. There's excitement, adventure, and true love.
The Obsession of Victoria Gracen and The Gold Shoe as well as Ladybird are really fun reads. Not all of her books are five star books, but these are definitely worth the time and money.
March 28, 2023
An unexpected plot. Loved it!
The story unfolds as an extended chase scene with love in the air and eventually comes together very satisfyingly. The parts that seem unbelievable at first are supported later on so that nothing was beyond the realm of Possibility. As always, my favorite parts reflect God and how He works. I think this story will prove to be unforgettable.
The story unfolds as an extended chase scene with love in the air and eventually comes together very satisfyingly. The parts that seem unbelievable at first are supported later on so that nothing was beyond the realm of Possibility. As always, my favorite parts reflect God and how He works. I think this story will prove to be unforgettable.
February 27, 2019
A sweet story that shows how good God is!
I liked the fact that there was never a dull moment. Always something happening. When things go wrong the female character always depends on God to make a way. Such a delightful book.
I liked the fact that there was never a dull moment. Always something happening. When things go wrong the female character always depends on God to make a way. Such a delightful book.
January 12, 2020
I actually found this book to be refreshing! It is “old-fashioned” in the way they talk because of the date it was written (same words used back then had different meanings) but all-in-all, I enjoyed it.
July 12, 2017
Cute wholesome story
Cute wholesome story but contradictory at some points. Xxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx xxx xxxxx x x x
Cute wholesome story but contradictory at some points. Xxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx xxx xxxxx x x x
November 19, 2018
Intriguing story, can't put the book down kind of read. Highly recommend!
September 16, 2019
Filled with lots of fun and action, the charming Chan, and GLH’s trademark idealism and sweetness.
February 25, 2020
This book was okay. It wasnt my favorite Hill book because I dont care for chase sequences, but that's purely a personal opinion and I liked the book besides that.
November 14, 2024
Great book. Kept me turning pages and reading just one more chapter. I love that she weaves the plan of salvation into her stories.
March 11, 2025
Not the best of her books
This book was OK, but certainly not as good as most of Grace Livingston Hills’ other books that I have read.
This book was OK, but certainly not as good as most of Grace Livingston Hills’ other books that I have read.
February 1, 2020
Grace Livingston Hill is an acquired taste, having quite a quaint style. Some of her books are really good, some ok and some that aren't so good.
I happen to like her style, although I do have to be in the right frame of mind for it. This one is a favourite of mine, and one I've read several times over the years. According to Goodreads, I last read it 3 years ago.
I liked the rescue, and then continual escapes (and another rescue) that happens. Chan was a great hero and his search for something better was well told. Rachel was a gentle heroine, and it was nice that it was her manner and convictions that made Chan want to be a better person and find the peace and relationship with God that Rachel has.
I happen to like her style, although I do have to be in the right frame of mind for it. This one is a favourite of mine, and one I've read several times over the years. According to Goodreads, I last read it 3 years ago.
I liked the rescue, and then continual escapes (and another rescue) that happens. Chan was a great hero and his search for something better was well told. Rachel was a gentle heroine, and it was nice that it was her manner and convictions that made Chan want to be a better person and find the peace and relationship with God that Rachel has.
August 24, 2015
I struggled with this one. Just had a hard time getting into it. It was cheesy, preachy, and pretty slow. It was clean and had some fun ideas I must admit though I had to skim through some of it. Maybe just the mood I was in but not one I will be reading again.
June 3, 2009
this book was written in the 1930's...
i totally love the way women used to dress....
the funny way they said things back then...all the slang....
i just love this particular author.
i totally love the way women used to dress....
the funny way they said things back then...all the slang....
i just love this particular author.
November 27, 2012
One of the best books Grace ever wrote!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews