The Lumber Baron's Wife

by Lynn Austin, Sarah Zimmerman (Narrator)

When the young wife of a powerful lumber baron vanishes into the wilds of frontier Michigan, her friend is left to unravel the truth in this captivating dual-timeline novel from bestselling author Lynn Austin.

1873

After a devastating loss, Hannah Wagner never imagined she’d leave her comfortable home for the harsh, unfamiliar wilderness near Lake Michigan. But when Henry Abernathy, a friend of her husband John, offers them a fresh start in a booming lumber town—where John’s skills as a doctor are sorely needed—Hannah reluctantly agrees.

There, she meets Kate Abernathy, Henry’s spirited, much younger wife. Kate’s sharp tongue and outsider status have made her unwelcome among the town’s elite. As she begins confiding in Hannah, it becomes clear her marriage is not what it seems—and that a secret from her past could destroy everything.

Present Day

Ashley Gilbert never planned to settle in Michigan, but when her husband lands his dream job as a conservationist, she agrees to follow. While restoring their historic home—built in the 19th century for a doctor and his wife—Ashley becomes captivated by its past and its connection to the nearby Abernathy mansion, now being transformed into a museum.

While volunteering with the restoration, Ashley stumbles upon the unsolved mystery of Kate Abernathy’s disappearance. What begins as curiosity soon becomes a quest for the truth—one that will connect her to two women whose stories and struggles echo and inspire her own.

Standalone historical fiction about marriage, grief, and the power of female friendships from the author of All My Secrets and Long Way Home A richly layered Christian women’s fiction novel with elements of mystery, perfect for fans of Martha Hall Kelly, Kristy Cambron, and Susan Meissner Includes discussion questions for book clubs PLEASE When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Mystery, Historical, Christian, Audiobook

Audible Audio

Published April 7, 2026

About the author

For many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.

It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.

Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.

Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.

Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published 27 novels. Eight of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.

Reviews

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read and loved some of Lynn Austin’s historical fiction backlist so I was thrilled to see that she has a new intriguing title coming out in 2026. Though I enjoyed the book overall, there are a couple of things that prevented this from being an exceptional reading experience for me.

Kate, the lumber baron’s wife, often reminded me of a modern teenager in terms of her vocabulary and behavior. To me, it just took me out of the historical time period far too often.

I appreciated the prevalent pro-life theme throughout the book, but have to say there was a point of concern when the youth minister and his wife are said to have tried IVF with no success. Christians need to be educating themselves more on the moral implications of IVF. Do we celebrate the lives that are a result of this practice? Yes, absolutely we do, but that doesn’t mean we should be promoting that which is not God’s design. If you’re unaware of all the concerning issues surrounding IVF, I encourage you to check out Katy Faust’s research through her organization Them Before Us. Thousands of babies are just sitting on ice likely never to be born. All that being said, I do still think the book has positive qualities.

What I liked:
* The Gospel is presented beautifully.
* pro-life message
* Dual timeline

Thank you, Tyndale House for a complimentary e-ARC of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great story! This story mostly centers on the disappearance of the lumber baron’s wife. The mystery of what happened to her kept me very intrigued. There are some sad moments in this book. Also some situations that not everyone may be comfortable with (check content section for that). I felt bad for Hannah and John losing their children. Hannah had an extremely difficult time with that and reconnecting with God. She still tries to be a friend to the Lumber Baron’s Wife, Katie who is need of a friend and guidance. The present day storyline with David and Ashley was harder for me to read. (Again due to content found in the content section) I loved how the two timelines blended together and we do find out what happened to Katie. Good Christian content. Overall, I thought this story was very well done and I recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


Content:(contains spoilers)
Past timeline: parents dealing with grief and loss from their 3 children dying, other deaths, woman aborts her baby herself, abusive husband, injuries.
Present day timeline:couple contemplate aborting their baby(talk about if for several chapters)

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Blessing Bloodworth (naptimereaders) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have enjoyed Lynn Austin's historical fiction books for many years. She does a wonderful job at weaving historical accuracy with dimensional characters and clear themes of faith.

I was drawn to this particular story because of the unique premise and the setting close to my own home. It's 1873 and Hannah and her doctor husband decide to leave the comfort of New York to settle among a newly established lumber town on the shores of Lake Michigan. Hoping to get a fresh start and heal from grief, Hannah and John soon find their new friends (an area Lumber Baron and his young wife) might get them entangled in more drama than they expected. When tragedy strikes & the wife mysteriously disappears, Hannah finds the deepest pain can be redeemed into the healing.
Jump forward to the present day Ashley and her husband are looking to settle in that same Michigan town 150 years later. As they work through marriage tensions, financial struggles, and an unexpected surprise, Ashley finds clues to the mystery of the Lumber Baron's that might finally lead to the truth.

I appreciated the clear themes of Gospel forgiveness & redemption, true friendship, and the inherent value of life. I also was interested in the elements of historical home restoration and valuing & caring for nature.
But overall, I found the story to be a bit drawn out for my preferences. I was repeatedly frustrated by the relationship of Ashley and her husband and their inability to communicate through the tensions. I also was uncomfortable with how their "surprise" was handled, even though they came to a good decision at the end.

😇: Tyndale Publisher; strong themes of gospel forgiveness, bible study represented, positive portrayal of Christian community
💋: nothing explicit on-page; marriage intimacy alluded to; the characters investigate a supposed brothel
🤐: no language!
Content considerations: off-page death of children, physical abuse in marriage, assault referenced off-page, abortion discussed, drinking

Thank you to the publisher for a complimentary book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

The Lumber Baron's Wife was a good read that held my attention. I enjoyed the dual storylines and found it an interesting read. I wasn't expecting what had actually happened to the baron's wife and it was a surprising twist.

The characters were nice and unique...I think I preferred the ones in the past, though. I didn't love how certain characters handled some things, but nothing was too big of an issue for me.

All in all, The Lumber Baron's Wife was another good read from Lynn Austin. I think fans of historical romance will enjoy it. I look forward to more books from this author.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lynn Austin never lets her readers down, and her newest release is another great read. Set in dual time periods, the historical is set in frontier Michigan near Lake Michigan during the 1870's at a time when lumbering was wiping out Michigan's beautiful forests. The second time period is current day when a young couple move to the same area as the husband is a conservationist.

The story revolves around three young married women: Hannah Wagner, Kate Abernathy, and Ashley Gilbert. Hannah and Kate are both total opposites, but become friends during the 1870's. Ashley Gilbert is overwhelmed by the historical homes in the area and gets very involved in restoration. How will all three women become connected through the past and present?

This new release was a great read from start to finish! Highly recommend!

[Joleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those books that, were more than five stars available, you'd want to use them!

I just finished this book but it’s late in the evening so I can’t write an adequate review. More to come later, however, I needed to say right away what an amazing book this is! I wish I had the paper version so I could underline (and underline, and underline!). Hard to underline in an audiobook. Sigh.

Several days later this story still deeply on my mind….

Two timelines: 1870s and present day

1870s, Michigan:
Henry Abernathy: The lumber baron
Kate: The lumber baron's new wife
Hannah and John Wagner: Doctor and wife new to this lumber town

Present day, same town, Michigan:
Ashley Gilbert: Studied history and museum science
David Gilbert: Conservationist newly arrived in Michigan
Many museum volunteers helping preserve and refurbish the 150 year old Abernathy Estate.

This story is about three very different women from two timelines.

The first timeline was after the Civil War and at the beginning of the Gilded era during a lumber boon in Michigan. Millionaires were made in this lumber district, and millionaires left after destroying the environment. One main characters was Kate, the new and very young wife of the Henry Abernathy, the lumber baron in the title. Kate had been an actress and burlesque dancer. Having been brought up in a brothel Kate was completely ignorant of social norms for women in society. It was not uncommon for Kate to wear revealing dresses in public and to be seen around the house in a négligée even in front of the servants.

Then there was Hannah, the wife of a physician who Henry brought to Michigan to serve as town doctor. Hannah was a proper lady, but had suffered a great loss and was still in a state of mourning when they moved to Michigan from New York City. Henry Abernathy relined on Hannah to train Kate to be a lady. It wasn’t easy.

In the modern narrative, Ashley Gilbert’s life takes a dramatic turn when her husband, David, accepts a conservationist position in the same town as Kate and Hannah 150 years before. For the couple, the move represented more than just a change of scenery; it was a step into a landscape haunted by the actions of long ago lumber barons.

Ashley‘s main interest was museums, but the town had no museum. The history of the Abernathy mansion and the disappearance of Henry's wife fascinated Ashley, which led to delving into the local history, and the Abernathy mystery.

With a split narrative, the author allows all three women to share their own accounts, making for a an immersive read I found riveting.

A few times I wondered if this would turn out to be a Christian fiction book, but Lynn Austin never disappoints. Such a lovely faith arc. Such changed lives.

A phenomenal read that deserves more praise than I can offer here.

Loved it!

[Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actual rating: 4.5 stars

The Lumber Baron’s Wife is a split-time mystery in Michigan. We follow two main perspective characters: Hannah Wagner, the wife of a doctor hired to tend to a lumber town in 1873; and Ashley Gilbert, who relocates to the same area in the present day when her husband lands his dream job. These women are bound through sharing the same house over a century apart, as well as by the town’s biggest mystery: the vanishing of Kate Abernathy, the lumber baron’s wife.

As a historian, Ashley wants nothing more than to solve the historical mystery of Kate Abernathy’s disappearance, whereas Hannah is simply concerned about her friend in the months leading up to her vanishing. While Hannah didn’t immediately warm to Kate upon their first meeting, the two end up becoming friends over the course of their time together. Kate serves as our tertiary perspective. We get her story through pieces of the diary she left behind. She has lived a tremendously hard life and has questions about what love really is, and whether God could possibly forgive her for her past.

Two of the three perspectives aren’t Christians, and the third is dealing with a lot of understandable bitterness and grief. The way this is handled, especially in the present day, allows Austin to weave in faith in a way that feels natural instead of preachy, even as she is essentially having secondary characters share Jesus with the primary characters. She also deals with a lot of hard questions and social issues, whether head-on or only glancingly. We see a host of marriages, with a spectrum of husbands ranging from wonderful to selfish to downright awful. Some of the issues Austin deals with include abuse, the loss of a child, sanctity of life, and learning to love again after devastation.

I have to confess that this was my first experience with Austin’s work, and I largely picked it up because I met the woman who inspired a large chunk of the story, after whom Austin named one of the main characters. I’m thankful for that meeting, not only because I made a friend but because, through that friendship, I found a wonderful, new-to-me author. Austin has a tremendous backlog that I am excited to investigate. I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this story and can’t recommend it highly enough!

[Amanda Geaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lynn Austin is an auto-read for me, and The Lumber Baron’s Wife reminded me why. I cared equally about both timelines, which is rare for split-time fiction.

In 1870s Michigan, Hannah Wagner’s grief and self-imposed isolation intersect with Kate Abernathy, a young woman with a troubled past who doesn’t fit in. In the present, Ashley Gilbert moves to Michigan for her husband David’s conservationist job and uncovers Kate’s mysterious disappearance while restoring a historic home. Each woman has a relatable struggle, whether it’s their ache for a stable home, need for acceptance, or the right words to share their faith. Hannah is the character who showed the most growth, and I admired her honest self-reflection toward the end of the book. David, though? His selfishness, like Henry Abernathy’s, grated on me, proving Austin’s skill for crafting flawed, believable characters.

The Christian threads are strong. The story promotes the sanctity of life, serving your neighbor, and witnessing to unbelievers. One of the most memorable scenes is when Ruth, the chaplain’s wife, explains salvation through a courtroom picture: Kate pleads guilty, but Jesus steps in, saying, “Father, I’ll take her guilt. Let me take her place,” and the judge declares, “Justice has been served. You’re free to go” (Romans 8:1, ESV). In doctrinal terms, the act itself illustrates substitutionary atonement—Christ taking the sinner’s penalty—while the verdict captures justification, God’s legal declaration that the sinner is free and righteous in Christ. ❤️

I also value how much I learned through the story. The narrative traces Michigan’s white pine era and the human costs of the lumber boom, the rhythms of Great Lakes life, and how national events like the Great Chicago Fire drove demand for lumber and reshaped communities.

I recommend this to readers of Christian historical fiction, to longtime Lynn Austin fans, and to book clubs. It would pair nicely with Jocelyn Green’s Veiled in Smoke, which mentions the Great Chicago Fire.

Content notes: emotional and physical abuse, drinking, prostitution, abortion.

Disclosure: I received a copy from the publisher and was not required to leave a review. The opinions are my own.

[Emily Waits (emilylovesreading_) · Rating 4 out of 5]

(I received a complimentary copy of this title. All opinions are my own.)

I was so excited to read Lynn Austin’s upcoming release! Lynn Austin writes wonderful Christian fiction, and “The Lumber Baron’s Wife” will be one of the most exciting releases this coming spring.

This story is set in Michigan in the 1870’s and also in present day Michigan. There are three points of view in this story, and I found each one to be really enjoyable!

This story has very strong faith themes, rich history, and mystery. 🙌🏻

I prefer to leave content warnings off of my reviews to avoid potential spoilers, but I do keep track of them. This book does have some content that may be difficult for some to read. If you would like a list of content warnings, please feel free to let me know in the comments or send me a DM. Happy to help you. ❤️

Another great Christian historical fiction! Definitely recommend!

[Christine Reeves · Rating 4 out of 5]

SPOILER



The author generates history into life again with this strong story, while rooting out the aching environmental regrets of Michigan’s dark past that I pray we learn from today. I personally did not like how the ‘happy ending’ for a prostitute’s daughter was to have her working at the insane asylum. Of course, money does not buy happiness, but she never leaves the degradation of social outcast in the end.

[Karen R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another stellar read by Lynn Austin! An engaging dual timeline story with an unsolved mystery, interesting history, and relationship issues at its core. Set in Michigan in a town built on the lumber industry, between 1873-4 and present day.

A well-written and perfectly paced story that managed to touch on deep issues relevant to today. The marriages in both time periods had serious difficulties that had me wanting to pray for the characters, they felt so real. The friendship between Hannah and Kate was especially touching and convicting at times. It made me think about what it means to truly be a good friend to someone who is different, addressing fears, and reaching out to others who are struggling with faith and hope. The house restoration project was an interesting way to bring out the history of the area and delve into the mystery. Loved how it brought people together and paralleled the personal restoration and faith journey of Hannah.

Highly recommend to readers who enjoy books with flawed characters, faith and hope. 5 stars!

(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.)

[Katja Labonté · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars (3/10 hearts). I have heard a lot of Lynn Austin's historical fiction and was thrilled to finally get to try one of her books, especially one about the Gilded Era and covering the lumber barons, something I knew little about. I was left with mixed feelings, however.

I really enjoyed the historical aspect, and the mystery of Kate's fate, as well as watching Ashely restore the Abernathy house into a museum and enjoy her own old home—two things I adore 😉 I struggled intensely, however, with the vocabulary. The 1870 portions constantly jerked me out of focus by such things as "yeah, sure," "poor little guy," and "do you have any kids?" Kate's diary entries reminded me of a Dear Canada/Dear America journal, which made it hard for me to take her seriously. Also, I really struggled with the constant tension between Ashley & David in the present day.

However, I appreciated the author tackling domestic violence, unwanted pregnancy, prostitution & abortion in the 1800s, and several other topics that are hard but important to discuss. I also really appreciated the focus on the Gospel and Frieda's sweet character, as well as the messages on faith, love, life's value, and the Gospel. Overall, this wasn't for me, but I will definitely try this author again.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*

[Nikki Akerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

There was so much intrigue that kept me glued to the story. I loved the character development in all three POV’s. There were many heavy topics and I loved how God’s grace healed their hearts. This is a story of ashes to beauty on so many levels.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lumber Baron's Wife combines a captivating mystery, amazing history, and inspiring faith to create a heartfelt, entertaining read that touched my heart and stirred my emotions. I loved the story and especially enjoyed the brilliantly executed, easy to follow dual timeline. The storylines are set in the 1870s and modern-day Michigan, and both are engaging, anchored by compelling characters, then tied together beautifully in the end. I was totally immersed in the story from beginning to end. Well-researched history and vivid detailed setting descriptions enhance the narrative. Wonderfully created, realistic characters left a lasting impression on me. I could feel their pain, struggles, and triumphs. I appreciate the strong spiritual aspect of the story, with a powerful message of redemption and restoration, that feels both natural and uplifting, enhancing the story's emotional depth. Also, I appreciate the pro-life message and the way the author gracefully handles other difficult topics through the lens of faith. I am definitely adding this book to my Best Reads Ever list, and it has my highest recommendation.
I read an early copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I have always been so impressed by Lynn Austin’s ability to write – and write well – books that vary vastly from one another in theme, in style, in historical era. As an example, my two very favorite books by her are as different as night and day. One is set in the hustle and bustle of Chicago in 1893 during the World Expo and has some delightfully quirky characters. The other is set in the Appalachian part of Kentucky during the Great Depression and focuses on the packhorse librarians. She’s also got some wonderful books set during Old Testament times, in Victorian Egypt, during the Civil War, World War 1, the Roaring 20s, World War 2, the 1980s, and modern day (and probably a few eras I forgot). And now she’s written a compelling dual timeline novel set in the 1870s & present day Michigan, and I could not put down The Lumber Baron’s Wife until I’d uncovered all the story’s secrets.

The book begins with this intriguing bit of first person narrative from the 1870s protagonist, doctor’s wife Hannah Wagner – “It’s long past midnight but I cannot sleep, consumed with worry for my friend. She disappeared without a trace two weeks ago, and I fear she has come to harm.” Oh hello, compelling plot hook. I’m firmly engaged already and I’m not yet three sentences in. And the more I learned about Hannah and her unlikely friendship with the unrefined lumber baron’s wife, Kate, the more invested I became in solving the mystery of what happened to the latter. Especially as we join Ashley Gilbert and her husband in the present day timeline and learn – as Ashley becomes connected to both Hannah’s former home and Kate’s – that they still don’t know what happened. I was literally leaning forward as though I could climb into my Kindle and look over Ashley’s shoulder as she helps unearth the Abernathy house from decades of other uses and eras of decor. I held my breath each time they found another boarded up fireplace or piece of original furniture … Is this when we learn Kate’s fate? I love it when an old house connects two timelines and a mystery besides, so I thoroughly enjoyed spending time in these houses no matter which timeline we were in.

In the meantime, I also drank in their moving stories – Hannah’s, Ashley’s, and yes, Kate’s too. All three women are navigating complex emotions, and all three women have life-changing choices to make. The author captured these layers honestly, not shying away from the messier aspects but always pointing clearly to the Gospel and the sanctity of life. I saw something of myself in each of these women and their relatable struggles, and I appreciated how Austin used them to speak to so many of the hurts, insecurities, uncertainty, and even the heart-deep desires that women face in life. While Hannah probably most closely resembles the majority of us in our friendships with unbelievers, Freida (in the present day timeline) is who I want to be. I loved her natural interactions with Ashley and how she let Jesus use her story in Ashley’s life, but I was also encouraged to see how He uses Hannah’s more reluctant witnessing attempts in Kate’s life too. A good reminder that we don’t need to be perfect at sharing the good news of grace, just obedient!

Bottom Line: Fascinating history. Compelling characters. A riveting mystery. Lynn Austin has woven all three elements, plus touching redemption themes, into The Lumber Baron’s Wife, and I gobbled it all up quite happily. I found myself embracing every broken woman on these pages – the prostitutes, the self-righteous, the abused, the grieving, the lonely, the doubting, the confused, and the pressured – and rejoicing over each one that finds healing in the heart of Jesus. Hannah, Kate, and Ashley and their respective stories will stick with me for a while, as much for the authenticity in their struggles as for the way their individual paths intersected. A great next read for fans of Melanie Dobson, Michelle Shocklee, women’s fiction, historical mysteries, and stories about old houses with secrets!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[BookMarkedbyNicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Megan Baertlein · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this was a historic fiction. And it was. A little. Like maybe 10%. The other 90% was very aggressively religious

[Florence · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lumber Baron's Wife by Lynn Austin is a beautifully written story of faith, compassion, redemption & healing.

This dual timeline book follows the lives of Kate Abernathy, the young, "wild" wife of a wealthy lumber baron,
Hannah Wagner, the doctor's wife who is dealing with the loss of her 3 children and having to leave her home where they are buried. Once she arrived in Michigan she is asked to groom Kate in the late 1800's.

In present time Ashley Gilbert, gives up her career dreams and moves to Michigan so her husband can take a dream job as a conservationist. She falls in love with a historic home built during the lumber boom owned by John & Hannah Wagner in a western Lake Michigan town She convinces her husband to purchase it and starts to dig into it's history as well as the history and restoration of the home nearby that belonged to Lumber Baron, Henry Abernathy and the mystery that surrounds it.

The book portrays the lumber industry, social expectations and the hard decisions each of the women have to make.

What makes this book stand out is its quiet yet powerful message: redemption is possible even in the most broken circumstances.

Overall, The Lumber Baron's Wife is a moving and thoughtful novel for those who enjoy historical fiction with strong faith themes, meaningful character, and a deeply hopeful message. It is a reminder that God can work through even the most painful situations to bring about healing and new beginnings.

Lynn tackles some difficult topics such as abortion, abuse, death & mental illness but as always does it with such grace. The book is truly amazing and the end justifies the means.

Favorite lines in the book:
"The Choices we make are very important. Regret can be a very heavy weight to get out from under."
"Birth and death, sorrow and joy, suffering and peace came tangled together in this precarious dance of life."

Thank you Lynn Austin for giving me the opportunity to ARC read this beautiful story in exchange for an honest review.

[Melinda | bookswithmelin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was THE book that finally got me out of a reading slump! The cover matches the story perfectly in that it’s darker/heavier but so so beautiful!

Setting it as a split time mystery, Lynn Austin wrote her all of her main characters already married which gave the book a different feel than most other Christian fiction out there — I loved that aspect! The reader gets pulled into the marriages right away and gets to experience how each work through various trials.

I’m left with the message of how we can truly touch and bring light into other peoples lives by sharing our faith and pouring out Gods love onto them, no matter who they are.
The Lumber Barons Wife is now rivaling for the top spot as my favorite Lynn Austin novel. Definitely read this one!

** Trigger warnings: marital abuse, child loss, parent loss, infertility, brief mention of attempted rape (non descriptive), conversations regarding abortion and IVF, brothels and prostitution (non descriptive)

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 STARS My first book by this author and I will definitely be reading more! Perfect blending of the timelines and story with great lessons in faith!

[Dawn Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful book about something I knew very little about, the lumber barons of Michigan! I loved that it was a time slip novel with a modern storyline too about restoring a mansion, and I thought the resolutions of each story made sense and were well done. Thanks to Lynn Austin and Tyndale House Publishers for the advanced copy of this book as part of Lynn’s launch team. I love being on Lynn’s launch team, and I highly recommend this book.

[Esther Filbrun · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a long-time fan of Lynn Austin’s books, I’ve been eagerly anticipating this story. Not only have I enjoyed many of her books in the past (and reread some of my favorites), but this book also featured my home state, and the story of a lumber business I knew very little of until I went to a historical lumber village recently.

I was also excited when I dove in and realized that this is a dual-timeline story. I love stories written that way, and I enjoy trying to figure out what event will bring the two together. This actually ended up being a story about three different women, and I loved the perspectives each one brought to the plot. That was well done! Plus, getting both “ends” of the story—when the town was first being built, and modern-day, when restoration works were in progress—was a fascinating way to tell the story.

Unfortunately, I struggled with the book as a whole. I don’t know what it is, and I find it frustrating, because I came away with a similar reaction to several of Austin’s other recent releases, especially since I know I love her earlier works. One thing that I struggled with in this book was the first-person, present-tense part of the story. Thankfully, the whole book wasn’t written that way, but certain perspectives were, and I found that difficult. At other times, it felt like the characters were pushed into decisions (or made them more quickly than seemed realistic), which made me struggle with the believability factor to some extent.

On the other hand, The Lumber Baron’s Wife is easy to read, and I was able to relate to Hannah, especially in her wanting to work through grief but not being willing to face the pain of working through it. Having experienced some loss myself, I appreciated the delicacy and compassion Austin showed in telling her story. Kate, too…oh, the poor dear! I loved the perspectives she gained as the story moved along. A sweet, uplifting story about a fascinating time in Michigan history.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.

[Beth Wyant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the story and the wonderful spiritual elements that worked beautifully within the story. There was a lot of sadness with the characters but that was the point- to see how they grew and changed. The story was based on a piece of history that few would know about but I loved learning about the lumber barons.

Lynn is an automatic read for me and my favorite author but she never wavers in writing beautiful books that speak to my heart-every time. I was chosen for the launch team for this one and look forward to recommending it.

[Chris Jager · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Lynn Austin hits it out of the park. She is a go to author for me. I love her historical stories because they bring to light little known times and people. The Lumber Barons devastated Michigan in their greed to have more. Austin points this out and how important it is to think of nature while using it.

3 women's stories are intertwined with each other. 2 in the 1800's as they each try to find their way. Heather who is grieving the loss of her 3 young children and Kate who is a young wife to one of the Lumber Baron's who past did not prepare her for life on a millionaire. The 3rd who is trying to figure out what she wants out of life. After moving to Michigan with her husband, Ashley is at loose ends as to what to do to support not only her husband, but to also help their family.

Beautifully written, this story kept my attention the whole entire book. Maybe partly because it is set in my home state, but mostly because it is an interesting story that shows we can learn and support each other even when we are separated by time.

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this author. I love dual-timeline books. I love books with multiple layers and deep storylines. I love characters that jump off the page and land in my imagination, staying there long after the book has been closed. Being located in Michigan was simply a bonus! This book had it all. Highly recommend.

I received this book as a complimentary copy from netgalley but wasn't obligated to write a review. All opinions are my honest opinions.

[Madi unruh · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars this was gooooood

The mystery kept me going! And I connected to both timelines loved loved loved

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gorgeous historical house with a mysterious legacy, set in a white pine logging town in Michigan, holds secrets that bind three women from the past and from the present in this captivating dual timeline novel of God's deep and unfathomable love.


In the past Hannah and her doctor husband John move to Michigan in hopes of a new beginning after losing their 3 children to tragedy, at the request of John's war buddy, Lumber Baron Henry Abernathy. Hannah is tasked with teaching Henry's young wife how to behave in polite society, but she believes her aching heart has little to give.

In the present-day Ashley and her new husband David, struggle to find a home and common ground that they previously thought was so plentiful. Ashley is drawn to investigating the history behind the Abernathy home after being invited to join the community in reviving a once stately historical mansion.

Hannah had everything until tragedy took it away, now starting over putting up with the childish antics of Kate Abernathy is the last thing that she thinks she needs. I liked how Hannah was patient with Kate, kindly showing her the correct way to things are done even if it was begrudgingly at first. Kate and Hannah are very different, but I liked how they found common ground and purpose in helping others. Hannah was probably my favorite character, not your typical protagonist, grieving and struggling to trust God, while putting one foot in front of the other and doing the next thing in front of her. I admired how John was tender, supportive of and patient with her.

Ashley in the present day is faced with a different set of challenges, but I liked her willingness and passion for the project. Despite their differences, Ashley and David have a deep love for each other. Freida is a spry older woman who brought her community to them, welcoming them with open arms, offering friendship and no condemnation.

A riveting read, that walks the line between 2 timelines, with complex characters against the ruthless and once beautiful white pines of Michigan. The book does a great job of drawing you into the lives of three very different women, unwinding their lives and delving into their relationships, revealing a beautiful and shining truth. Compelling and memorable. Highly recommend!

Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Shelly Dabbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so happy to see a book written about the Lumber Baron's of western Michigan. This story tells the story of 3 women & their lives over the course of two time periods. The two women who the story is really about is very intriguing. A wealthy lumber baron meets his wife in NY who is much younger than he is. They return to MI & have a beautiful mansion there. There life is not what it seems. Kate just wants to have a true friend & she finally finds her in Hannah after she & her husband move to MI after talking with Kate's husband. The town needed a Doctor. A house is built for them. Hannah is reluctant to leave NY as she has to leave her 3 young children there after they were lost to a disease. Hannah guides Kate through some big events in her life & she is the only one Kate has told of her past life. They share their lack of faith in God due to the things that have happened to them. After Kate disappears, Hannah does not understand what happened & continues to wonder about her friend. When she receives a mysterious package, she finally has her answers.
Years later Ashley moves to MI for her husband gets a conservationist job & she leaves her job to go with him. Once there, they move into the home of the former Doctor & his family. She meets up with a Frieda who is working to restore the former mansion of Kate & her husband with the help of volunteers. Ashley is hooked as she is a historical restoration expert who helps get the restoration started but needing an income, she takes other jobs until the mansion foundation is given a grant so she is a paid part of the team. She learns all about the mansion& the people who lived there. She finds the mystery of Kate's disappearance intriguing. The mansion is restored to it's former glory & is opened as a museum. Ashley is stunned when she finds the hidden truth behind the disappearance of Kate which was hidden away years before.
I like the idea of the stories going from 1873 to current day & how each lady had a huge part in the story of the lives they lead. It was easy to follow & to put yourself in their place. They may have all questioned their love of God throughout their lives but in the end, they were able to find the answers they needed.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lynn Austin sweeps you into her latest novel, The Lumber Baron’s Wife and deep into the world of the “Lumber Barons” of Michigan—men who made themselves millionaires by destroying Michigan’s trees and land all in the name of progress—during the 1870s. Weaving a captivating story split between the 1870s and today, Ms. Austin introduces readers to Kate and Hannah in the 1870s and Ashley in present-day. In the 1870s, Kate and Hannah could not be more different, coming from opposite sides of the tracks. Hannah Wagner, born and raised in New York, is married to John, who is a doctor, and is in the throes of grief after losing her 3 children consecutively from diphtheria. When John’s friend from the Civil War, Henry Abernathy, visits with his new and much younger wife, Kate, Henry offers John a job to be the doctor in Michigan where Lumber Barons and sawmills rule the land. Begrudgingly Hannah moves to Michigan leaving her children’s graves behind for the sake of her husband and their marriage. Kate is so excited to have Hannah, her only friend, nearby to share her deepest, darkest secrets with and to hang out with. Hannah doesn’t see her friendship with Kate that way, but she did agree to help turn Kate into a proper Lumber Baron’s Wife. As a friendship of sorts begins to unfold, Kate and Hannah begin to share their darkest secrets, and see each other’s hearts. In present day, Ashley Gilbert and her husband David move to Michigan from Philadelphia for David’s job as a state conservationist. Ashley and David fell in love over their need to plant roots and the outdoors, but that’s about where the similarities end. Cracks in their marriage begin to show when they buy the house once owned by Dr. John Wagner and his family. Ashley’s heart beats all things history and restoration, so to live in a house that was built in the 1870s is a dream—especially when the house is in practically original pristine condition and documents and pictures of the history of the house and its original owner are passed down to each owner. This is when Ashley learns of Henry Abernathy and the famed disappearance of his wife, Kate. Stumbling across the Abernathy Mansion, Ashley meets a group of people who share the same passion for their town’s history and want to restore the beloved Abernathy Mansion. Ashley volunteers to help with the restoration project, hoping to solve the mystery of Kate Abernathy’s disappearance in the process. As Ashley unravels clues, she learns that she is not too different from Kate and Hannah at times. All three women learn sometimes secrets need to be told and sometimes secrets are to be kept.

I have yet to find a Lynn Austin book that I don’t absolutely love and adore, and I love and adore The Lumber Baron’s Wife! The premise of The Lumber Baron’s Wife is phenomenal! I loved meeting Ashley, Hannah, and Kate and learning about the world of Lumber Barons. Ms. Austin wrote the plot to effortlessly flow between Kate, Hannah, and Ashley’s respective perspectives. My heart went out to Ashley, Hannah, and Kate for what they went through in their lives. I loved the brashness and heart that was Kate. I loved that at the heart of Kate, she was technically not ashamed of her past, but she knew and respected that those in her orbit would not approve of her past. I love that Kate stuck with her convictions when she was able to help those in need. I love Hannah and felt her ache as she was trying to navigate life in a new town, without her children, without her purpose. I love how Hannah started to see Kate as a person who was loved by Jesus and needed Him. I love how Hannah poured into Kate, trying to convince her that regardless of her past, God would forgive her. I also appreciated how Kate struggled with accepting how God could forgive her. I also loved how Forgiveness was finally explained in a way that Kate would grasp. (It reminded me of Carman’s music!) I also love how Kate got Hannah out of her comfort zone to serve others and to live again. I appreciated how Ms. Austin wrote Ashley to be a Non-Believer and the Journey she went on in the The Lumber Baron’s Wife. My heart ached for what Ashley dealt with in the book. I could see why David had the reasonings for some of the things that went on in the book and I was happy that Ms. Austin put them in the book, but my heart went out to Ashley due to the weight she was carrying because of it. I love that Ashley was a fellow historian and got a high off of researching and restoring things. I always love how Ms. Austin is descriptive in her writing! Ms. Austin made me want to visit Dr. Wagner’s house and the Abernathy Mansion, despite being fictional places! I loved learning about the Lumber Baron part of history. I was fascinated by the opulence of the day, and experienced sadness at the loss of life and nature due to greed disguised in the name of progress. The Lumber Baron’s Wife kept me glued due to the story’s mysteries and bombshells both past and present! I honestly didn’t want the story to end! If Ms. Austin wants to write Mr. Abernathy’s story further or flesh out the mystery of Kate’s disappearance more, she will get no complaints from me! (Read The Lumber Baron’s Wife and you will know exactly why I say that!) If you are looking for an escape that has you feeling all the emotions while pointing you to Hope, I highly recommend The Lumber Baron’s Wife by Lynn Austin!

Have you read The Lumber Baron’s Wife? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank Lynn Austin and Emily (as well as NetGalley and the Publisher) for giving me a copy of The Lumber Baron’s Wife to review and for letting me on the The Lumber Baron’s Wife Launch Team. All thoughts and opinions are my own.