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River to Redemption
Orphaned in the cholera epidemic of 1833, Adria Starr was cared for by a slave named Louis, a man who stayed in Springfield, Kentucky, when anyone with means had fled. A man who passed up the opportunity to escape his bondage and instead tended to the sick and buried the dead. A man who, twelve years later, is being sold by his owners despite his heroic actions. Now nineteen, Adria has never forgotten what Louis did for her. She's determined to find a way to buy Louis's freedom. But in 1840s Kentucky, she'll face an uphill battle.
Based partly on a true story, Ann H. Gabhart's latest historical novel is a tour de force. The vividly rendered town of Springfield and its citizens immerse readers in a story of courage, betrayal, and honor that will stick with them long after they turn the last page.
Based partly on a true story, Ann H. Gabhart's latest historical novel is a tour de force. The vividly rendered town of Springfield and its citizens immerse readers in a story of courage, betrayal, and honor that will stick with them long after they turn the last page.
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First published July 3, 2018
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About the author
Ann H. Gabhart
49 books1,061 followersAnn H. Gabhart grew up on a farm in Kentucky. At the age of ten, she started dreaming of writing stories others would want to read. That dream has come true as she's published over thirty-five novels. She and her husband have three children married to three beautiful in-law children who have gifted her nine grandchildren. She still lives on a farm not far from where she grew up. She loves playing with her grandkids, walking with her dogs, reading, and, of course, writing. Her Shaker books, set in her fictional Shaker village of Harmony Hill in the 1800's, are popular with readers. The Outsider was a Christian Fiction Book Award Finalist in 2009. Her Heart of Hollyhill books are Small Town, America books set in the 1960's. Angel Sister, a Rosey Corner book set during the Great Depression, was a best-seller and was followed up by two more stories about the Merritt sisters. She keeps her stories in Kentucky and has enjoyed going to the Kentucky Appalachian Mountains for some stories including These Healing Hills and Along a Storied Trail. And if you like mysteries, you can try her Hidden Springs Mysteries published under the author name, A.H. Gabhart. Visit Ann's website http://annhgabhart.com to find out more. There you can sign up for her newsletter where she does giveaways several times a year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
July 18, 2018
One of my favorite books I've read this year. I love a book that challenges me. How did this one challenge me? It had information about the cholera epidemic of 1833 which challenged me to look up more information about it. I love when a book does this. The author has evidently done her research on the historically rich book. Amazingly this book is based on true facts. Louis, the slave was an amazing person. Totally selfless! Very impressed by this book.
Pub Date 03 Jul 2018
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Revell through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Pub Date 03 Jul 2018
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Revell through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 4, 2018
4.5 stars
What a beautiful book this was. The author portrays the time period and hardships they went through perfectly. I was immediately drawn into this story and found myself picking it up every chance I got.
The book starts out with Adria ( one of the main characters ) as just a little girl. There are 7 chapters during that time before switching to the time the book is focused on. Honestly, I loved that it spent so much time in the past. So often books will just quickly tell you a little bit about what’s happened and then move things forward. This book really took the time to show you the hardships these characters went through, and that immediately pulled me in. These characters went through so much but they also gained a lot.
Once the story moved forward 12 years I found myself still loving it the same. No, there wasn’t a ton of things happening left and right. The story really just focused on life and the little things and that made it beautiful. Adria is a dreamer. She dreams of bigger things. Of finding someone you love to marry. Not just because it’s be convenient. Her and Ruth love to read, while Ruth also enjoyed poetry. This book wasn’t full of action but it was still a delight to read.
And then there’s also the slaves. The book showed how selfless these people are and how they really are just grateful just to be alive. I immediately loved Louis and Matilda in seeing how they always put others in front of themselves. Louis is definitely one of the parts that made this book special. He was such a perfect character always thinking of others before himself.
Towards the end of the book things picked up and everything really came together. While I didn’t mind the simpleness of this book, I did enjoy all that started happening towards the end. Decisions were made, people left, and things changed. Life went on and everything perfectly fell into place at the end.
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end and I definitely recommend it. It’s a beautiful story about heartbreak, freedom, and new beginnings.
“I received a free copy of this book in exchange of my honest review. All thoughts are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review”
What a beautiful book this was. The author portrays the time period and hardships they went through perfectly. I was immediately drawn into this story and found myself picking it up every chance I got.
The book starts out with Adria ( one of the main characters ) as just a little girl. There are 7 chapters during that time before switching to the time the book is focused on. Honestly, I loved that it spent so much time in the past. So often books will just quickly tell you a little bit about what’s happened and then move things forward. This book really took the time to show you the hardships these characters went through, and that immediately pulled me in. These characters went through so much but they also gained a lot.
Once the story moved forward 12 years I found myself still loving it the same. No, there wasn’t a ton of things happening left and right. The story really just focused on life and the little things and that made it beautiful. Adria is a dreamer. She dreams of bigger things. Of finding someone you love to marry. Not just because it’s be convenient. Her and Ruth love to read, while Ruth also enjoyed poetry. This book wasn’t full of action but it was still a delight to read.
And then there’s also the slaves. The book showed how selfless these people are and how they really are just grateful just to be alive. I immediately loved Louis and Matilda in seeing how they always put others in front of themselves. Louis is definitely one of the parts that made this book special. He was such a perfect character always thinking of others before himself.
Towards the end of the book things picked up and everything really came together. While I didn’t mind the simpleness of this book, I did enjoy all that started happening towards the end. Decisions were made, people left, and things changed. Life went on and everything perfectly fell into place at the end.
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end and I definitely recommend it. It’s a beautiful story about heartbreak, freedom, and new beginnings.
“I received a free copy of this book in exchange of my honest review. All thoughts are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review”
July 26, 2018
Orphaned in the cholera epidemic of 1833, Adria Starr was cared for by a slave named Louis, a man who stayed in Springfield, Kentucky, when anyone with means had fled. A man who passed up the opportunity to escape his bondage and instead tended to the sick and buried the dead. A man who, twelve years later, is being sold by his owners despite his heroic actions. Now nineteen, Adria has never forgotten what Louis did for her. She's determined to find a way to buy Louis's freedom. But in 1840s Kentucky, she'll face an uphill battle.
This book contained an interesting story, but I felt the pace in the first half of the book was slow. I loved the characters, particularly, Louis. He was a gentle giant with a warm heart, a tender spirit, and a deep faith. Adria was an independent thinker; and, though surrounded by and courted by slave owners, she knew deep in heart that owning another human being and treating them like a commodity was wrong. She kept her thoughts to herself all while she was penning anonymous articles for northern newspapers in support of abolition. The second half of the plot picked up with more action both in Adria's love life and her more overt action in helping the slaves. Also Ruth, her adoptive mother, begins to realize it's time to stop mourning the loss of her husband and child and move on with life as well. Good secondary characters from Carlton the controlling boyfriend to derring-do Logan the drover who had his eyes on Adria. Pastor Robinson and his daughter Willeena played their part in everyone finding a new direction for their lives as well.
Powerful, well written story.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
This book contained an interesting story, but I felt the pace in the first half of the book was slow. I loved the characters, particularly, Louis. He was a gentle giant with a warm heart, a tender spirit, and a deep faith. Adria was an independent thinker; and, though surrounded by and courted by slave owners, she knew deep in heart that owning another human being and treating them like a commodity was wrong. She kept her thoughts to herself all while she was penning anonymous articles for northern newspapers in support of abolition. The second half of the plot picked up with more action both in Adria's love life and her more overt action in helping the slaves. Also Ruth, her adoptive mother, begins to realize it's time to stop mourning the loss of her husband and child and move on with life as well. Good secondary characters from Carlton the controlling boyfriend to derring-do Logan the drover who had his eyes on Adria. Pastor Robinson and his daughter Willeena played their part in everyone finding a new direction for their lives as well.
Powerful, well written story.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
July 8, 2018
{3.5 stars}
*I received this book to read in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts are my own*
I was pulled in by the first page, drawn into the sorrow of the losses during a Cholera outbreak, and taken through the journey of Adria and Ruth. It was a slower read, and while parts gripped me, I was able to set aside the book easily.
I enjoyed the progression of the story halfway through...the relationship of Ruth and Adria was well done and I absolutely loved the preacher :) I could really understand his struggle with praying with belief, and trusting that the Lord knows best.
Then, something went a little stale for me. It mainly had to do with Adria's scenes...I never could fully sympathize with her interests. Once she goes to a tavern to raise money for something, and her reasoning for doing it is because the people there are people just like people who go to church. Okay, I can understand that, but she seemed to totally shrug off her testimony as a Christian. There were a couple other things like the phrase "Listen to your heart" Ruth used when Adria didn't know what to do, that frustrated me. I'm getting sick of that phrase, and the funny thing was that it wasn't even consistent in this book. Technically, if the character were to listen to their heart there was no need for them to pray (which, is totally wrong)! And then the last 1/4 of the book just kind of all seemed a haste end to something amazing, but didn't leave me with that full effect at all.
Spiritual content was spot on, and I loved all the Bible conversations Will and Ruth shared. Very in-depth. Also, the romance on Ruth's side of things was so sweet :) Adria's romances were tolerable (two guys vying for one girl really need to get old sometime), but I did like how things were concluded with her. Overall, there were a couple kisses, not detailed at all.
Louis saved the story for me. Every time he spoke, he was full of wisdom and brought a smile to my face. Maybe it was the absent of him toward the end that brought the extra disappointment. Overall, I still found this book enjoyable, and I would definitely recommend to historical readers.
*I received this book to read in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts are my own*
I was pulled in by the first page, drawn into the sorrow of the losses during a Cholera outbreak, and taken through the journey of Adria and Ruth. It was a slower read, and while parts gripped me, I was able to set aside the book easily.
I enjoyed the progression of the story halfway through...the relationship of Ruth and Adria was well done and I absolutely loved the preacher :) I could really understand his struggle with praying with belief, and trusting that the Lord knows best.
Then, something went a little stale for me. It mainly had to do with Adria's scenes...I never could fully sympathize with her interests. Once she goes to a tavern to raise money for something, and her reasoning for doing it is because the people there are people just like people who go to church. Okay, I can understand that, but she seemed to totally shrug off her testimony as a Christian. There were a couple other things like the phrase "Listen to your heart" Ruth used when Adria didn't know what to do, that frustrated me. I'm getting sick of that phrase, and the funny thing was that it wasn't even consistent in this book. Technically, if the character were to listen to their heart there was no need for them to pray (which, is totally wrong)! And then the last 1/4 of the book just kind of all seemed a haste end to something amazing, but didn't leave me with that full effect at all.
Spiritual content was spot on, and I loved all the Bible conversations Will and Ruth shared. Very in-depth. Also, the romance on Ruth's side of things was so sweet :) Adria's romances were tolerable (two guys vying for one girl really need to get old sometime), but I did like how things were concluded with her. Overall, there were a couple kisses, not detailed at all.
Louis saved the story for me. Every time he spoke, he was full of wisdom and brought a smile to my face. Maybe it was the absent of him toward the end that brought the extra disappointment. Overall, I still found this book enjoyable, and I would definitely recommend to historical readers.
April 18, 2024
I found it fascinating that this book was based on a true story. I was not familiar with the cholera epidemic in this era, and I had never heard of Louis and Matilda. Their story was so interesting, and once again, Ann H. Gabhart has a masterful touch with dialect and character voice. This book is not your typical Christian historical romance, and that was a welcome change. It also means I may accidentally give spoilers in this review, so be warned.
It was refreshing to see a Christian historical novel where guy-gets-girl wasn’t the only emphasis, but Ruth’s story was so sweet and beautifully done. I really enjoyed seeing an older heroine have more of the focus, and the romance in this book was a lovely slow-burn that didn’t make me uncomfortable. She and Will were both strong characters with a lot of things to overcome, and I loved rooting for them.
I also loved rooting for Louis. He was a strong, well-drawn character, and his mighty faith was such an encouragement. I felt as if I knew him, or at least wanted to know him, and I can’t imagine what life must have been like for the real historical Louis. This novel also does an excellent job showing the tension for people who knew slavery was wrong but had no way of rectifying the problem. It’s easy to look back and criticize, but what a fraught situation. That is displayed very well here.
However . . . I had a hard time rooting for Adria. (Except her name. So pretty!) I wanted to root for her, and I really did applaud her desire to stand against slavery. Unfortunately, her constant pushing back against “convention” weakened that stand for me. Biblically and historically, I am much more interested in strong women who fight with humility and wisdom instead of irritation or rebellion. Because Adria chafed against so many other things (having an escort, wearing hats and long skirts, not being allowed to preach, being expected to marry, on and on), her choice to push back against slavery didn’t have the force for me that it would have if she had shown an attitude of contentment and graciousness in everything but that one vital point. She never seemed to notice or care that men also had to abide by social conventions or that some of those distinctions were biblical rather than societal.
This is not to say that there weren’t real issues. I fully agree that women should have had (and did have) a great influence in abolition. Just not with the attitude Adria tended to show. We have wonderful examples of influential women who displayed more biblical attitudes. I think of Stephen Gano’s daughter in early 19th-century Rhode Island, organizing shelter and Bible teaching for slaves who were assembled there before being sent south. I think of Hannah More, whose fight for women’s education was so much stronger to me because she embraced women’s distinctive roles and responded with grace within her society. The contrast is especially vivid because I just finished a novel based on Martha Washington, who had a tremendous impact on her world because she embraced the role she had been given. Even Abigail Adams, known for encouraging her husband to “remember the ladies,” had profound influence in her circle without this defiant attitude.
These women changed their worlds. River to Redemption is set only a few decades after the deaths of these historical figures, but I felt as if Adria was a 20th-century suffragette. That attitude also made other parts of her storyline less effective for me, since her objections to marriage seemed based more in reaction to cultural expectations than a genuine call to serve the Lord in singleness. At the same time, it was wonderful to have singleness play a part in a Christian historical novel. I would have loved to see more true historical strength and influence on display.
That is a very lengthy caveat, because I felt it needed some explanation. I do think, though, that most Christian historical readers will enjoy this book. I would gladly give Louis’s history and Ruth’s story five stars.
Content warnings: romance (mild), cholera deaths, feminism
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It was refreshing to see a Christian historical novel where guy-gets-girl wasn’t the only emphasis, but Ruth’s story was so sweet and beautifully done. I really enjoyed seeing an older heroine have more of the focus, and the romance in this book was a lovely slow-burn that didn’t make me uncomfortable. She and Will were both strong characters with a lot of things to overcome, and I loved rooting for them.
I also loved rooting for Louis. He was a strong, well-drawn character, and his mighty faith was such an encouragement. I felt as if I knew him, or at least wanted to know him, and I can’t imagine what life must have been like for the real historical Louis. This novel also does an excellent job showing the tension for people who knew slavery was wrong but had no way of rectifying the problem. It’s easy to look back and criticize, but what a fraught situation. That is displayed very well here.
However . . . I had a hard time rooting for Adria. (Except her name. So pretty!) I wanted to root for her, and I really did applaud her desire to stand against slavery. Unfortunately, her constant pushing back against “convention” weakened that stand for me. Biblically and historically, I am much more interested in strong women who fight with humility and wisdom instead of irritation or rebellion. Because Adria chafed against so many other things (having an escort, wearing hats and long skirts, not being allowed to preach, being expected to marry, on and on), her choice to push back against slavery didn’t have the force for me that it would have if she had shown an attitude of contentment and graciousness in everything but that one vital point. She never seemed to notice or care that men also had to abide by social conventions or that some of those distinctions were biblical rather than societal.
This is not to say that there weren’t real issues. I fully agree that women should have had (and did have) a great influence in abolition. Just not with the attitude Adria tended to show. We have wonderful examples of influential women who displayed more biblical attitudes. I think of Stephen Gano’s daughter in early 19th-century Rhode Island, organizing shelter and Bible teaching for slaves who were assembled there before being sent south. I think of Hannah More, whose fight for women’s education was so much stronger to me because she embraced women’s distinctive roles and responded with grace within her society. The contrast is especially vivid because I just finished a novel based on Martha Washington, who had a tremendous impact on her world because she embraced the role she had been given. Even Abigail Adams, known for encouraging her husband to “remember the ladies,” had profound influence in her circle without this defiant attitude.
These women changed their worlds. River to Redemption is set only a few decades after the deaths of these historical figures, but I felt as if Adria was a 20th-century suffragette. That attitude also made other parts of her storyline less effective for me, since her objections to marriage seemed based more in reaction to cultural expectations than a genuine call to serve the Lord in singleness. At the same time, it was wonderful to have singleness play a part in a Christian historical novel. I would have loved to see more true historical strength and influence on display.
That is a very lengthy caveat, because I felt it needed some explanation. I do think, though, that most Christian historical readers will enjoy this book. I would gladly give Louis’s history and Ruth’s story five stars.
Content warnings: romance (mild), cholera deaths, feminism
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September 5, 2018
The cholera epidemic of 1833 has hit Springfield, Kentucky. Those who could fleed the town, leaving behind the ill and a few slaves. Louis, owned by the hotel proprietor, remained behind, burying the dead and caring for the sick.
Adria Starr was orphaned at the age of seven after her parents and little brother died from cholera. Suffering from cholera herself, Adria was rescued by Louis and cared for by the hotel cook, another slave, Aunt Tilda. Wishing to give Adria the best chance at a happy life, Louis brings her to the home of Ruth Harmon, a widow who lost her husband in the epidemic. Ruth struggles to move past her grief, but does her best to raise Adria to become a mature, self sufficient woman. Having formed close relationships with Louis and Aunt Tilda, Adria abhors slavery, but must tread carefully so as not to tarnish the reputation of Ruth or herself. Adria does though find ways to live her convictions.
I loved Louis and his unwavering faith and how he believed his prayers were always heard.
A wonderful story of faith, compassion and courage.
The author notes at the end of the story that the actions of Louis are based upon a real person and historical events.
Adria Starr was orphaned at the age of seven after her parents and little brother died from cholera. Suffering from cholera herself, Adria was rescued by Louis and cared for by the hotel cook, another slave, Aunt Tilda. Wishing to give Adria the best chance at a happy life, Louis brings her to the home of Ruth Harmon, a widow who lost her husband in the epidemic. Ruth struggles to move past her grief, but does her best to raise Adria to become a mature, self sufficient woman. Having formed close relationships with Louis and Aunt Tilda, Adria abhors slavery, but must tread carefully so as not to tarnish the reputation of Ruth or herself. Adria does though find ways to live her convictions.
I loved Louis and his unwavering faith and how he believed his prayers were always heard.
A wonderful story of faith, compassion and courage.
The author notes at the end of the story that the actions of Louis are based upon a real person and historical events.
July 18, 2018
I have truly enjoyed this author's writings. This one grabs you from the first and keeps holding your attention to the very end. What a moving story about a very sweet little girl. Her story is remarkable. It's very touching. You will love how the historical events give you an understanding of the life of many people of that time period. Each time period has it's own hardships and Cholera definitely was a frightening disease. The book is so good you won't be able to put it down.
I highly recommend this!
I received an ebook copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
I highly recommend this!
I received an ebook copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
June 13, 2018
I can always count on an Ann Gabhart book to be good. And River to Redemption lived up to my expectations and more.
What surprised me most about this book was the comments at the end. It was based on a true story and so it makes the story all the more poignant. Set during the cholera epidemic of 1833, the story centers around Louis, a slave, who instead of sprinting for freedom when his owners left town to escape the epidemic, stayed behind to care for the sick and bury the dead. During this period he saves a little girl named Adria whose entire family dies during the epidemic. She clings to Louis and grows up to love him as family.
But Louis knows that he can't bring up a little white girl, so he prays. And Louis is big on prayer and believing that God will answer. When Louis meets Ruth Harmon, a young widow whose husband also perished during the epidemic, he proposes she take care of Adria and that is exactly what she does.
As is the case with all of Ms. Gabhart's books, she draws her readers in with well-developed characters and a story that is inspirational. Yes, there is romance and danger and a valuable lesson on prayer. I stayed up late reading this one and you will too!
What surprised me most about this book was the comments at the end. It was based on a true story and so it makes the story all the more poignant. Set during the cholera epidemic of 1833, the story centers around Louis, a slave, who instead of sprinting for freedom when his owners left town to escape the epidemic, stayed behind to care for the sick and bury the dead. During this period he saves a little girl named Adria whose entire family dies during the epidemic. She clings to Louis and grows up to love him as family.
But Louis knows that he can't bring up a little white girl, so he prays. And Louis is big on prayer and believing that God will answer. When Louis meets Ruth Harmon, a young widow whose husband also perished during the epidemic, he proposes she take care of Adria and that is exactly what she does.
As is the case with all of Ms. Gabhart's books, she draws her readers in with well-developed characters and a story that is inspirational. Yes, there is romance and danger and a valuable lesson on prayer. I stayed up late reading this one and you will too!
June 12, 2018
A compelling story based on a bit of real history, set in antebellum Kentucky! An unlikely group of people are brought together because of a tragic event: the cholera epidemic of 1833. A young orphaned girl finds shelter and friendship with the help of slaves who come to her aid. Skipping ahead to 1845, the story picks up bringing to life a tale of courage and faith.
"One plus the Lord can do mighty things now and again."
This steady paced story drew me in as Adria had many difficult decisions to make, and her convictions to help Louis moved her into action. I liked Ruth and how her gentle yet firm guidance with growing faith influenced Adria. The additional character of Will, the struggling pastor, added a lot to the story, and brought up real questions of faith, like why would a good God allow terrible things to happen. The importance of prayer, especially "praying with believing" was an uplifting theme. It made me examine my own lack of faith at times in view of bleak circumstances, and served as a pertinent reminder that God can indeed work together all things for good, for those who love Him, as it says in Romans 8:28.
Recommend for readers who enjoy historical Christian fiction, with a little tender romance. 4.5 stars
(An e-book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.)
"One plus the Lord can do mighty things now and again."
This steady paced story drew me in as Adria had many difficult decisions to make, and her convictions to help Louis moved her into action. I liked Ruth and how her gentle yet firm guidance with growing faith influenced Adria. The additional character of Will, the struggling pastor, added a lot to the story, and brought up real questions of faith, like why would a good God allow terrible things to happen. The importance of prayer, especially "praying with believing" was an uplifting theme. It made me examine my own lack of faith at times in view of bleak circumstances, and served as a pertinent reminder that God can indeed work together all things for good, for those who love Him, as it says in Romans 8:28.
Recommend for readers who enjoy historical Christian fiction, with a little tender romance. 4.5 stars
(An e-book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.)
June 25, 2018
From the moment I began, to the very last page the author drew me in with this story. I was fully immersed and living in the period, and life was not easy, and then I read that although fiction, this story is based on fact and Louis was a real person.
The author gives a great look at life in the South during the period slavery in this country. Also, how a slave saves lives and selflessly takes care of the dead, doing what he feels God wants him to do.
Loved how the story circles around and with great loss comes gain, and more that could be imagined.
The only problem I had was that the book ended and I really wanted to continue. A really awesome read!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.
The author gives a great look at life in the South during the period slavery in this country. Also, how a slave saves lives and selflessly takes care of the dead, doing what he feels God wants him to do.
Loved how the story circles around and with great loss comes gain, and more that could be imagined.
The only problem I had was that the book ended and I really wanted to continue. A really awesome read!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.
July 12, 2018
River to Redemption is a great book! I really enjoy books by Ann Gabhart and this book was just as fantastic as her other books. This book does not disappoint, especially with the history and time period in which this book was written for. The characters are fantastic and the faith they displayed is amazing! Even when things were looking dim, they still continued to pray, believe and God still saw them through. This book is a great romance, adventure and make sure the tissues are close by.
December 31, 2018
I just loved this story and the strength and faith of those who were the major players in this novel. “Pray believing” is a term I learned in this based on true historical events story. That’s a good way to begin my journey in 2019: by remembering the faith I have when I pray believing.
August 10, 2025
Biblical truths from beginning to end! Loved it. In my top 10 books I’ve read
April 26, 2022
I so enjoy Ms. Gabhart's books. Never would I call them cookie cutter.
River to Redemption is unique as well as captivating. Based on a true story, it begins with a capable and honorable slave who was given charge of his master's inn during a cholera outbreak so the owner could escape the “bad air of the town". Louie not only took care of his master's business, but helped the afflicted families of Springfield, Kentucky. He also took it upon himself to dig graves and bury the ones who didn’t survive, fifty-five in total. (An actual event).
The story around that true fact was about a woman (Ruth) whose husband died of this terrible disease, and of a little girl (Adria) who was the only one to survive in her family from the cholera. Louie brought Ruth and Adria together, and although life was quite different for the two of them, they survived and made a good life as a family of sorts.
Fast forward twelve years. Adria is now an adult being courted by a well off (and spoiled) young man who expected Adria to change when they wed. Carlton's family owned slaves which was appalling to Adria.
Along comes a young man, new to town, magnetic but lacking any ambition except to travel and be free. This seemed so attractive to Adria. Did she want stability from one relationship, but not be her true self, or could she see herself with a free spirit like Logan Farrell?
Charming book with a great Christian message about praying in faith and trusting God for the outcome.
Slight spoiler including an issue I had with a poor decision...
Aside from that, it was a very good book. Down 1/2 star for that issue, though.
River to Redemption is unique as well as captivating. Based on a true story, it begins with a capable and honorable slave who was given charge of his master's inn during a cholera outbreak so the owner could escape the “bad air of the town". Louie not only took care of his master's business, but helped the afflicted families of Springfield, Kentucky. He also took it upon himself to dig graves and bury the ones who didn’t survive, fifty-five in total. (An actual event).
The story around that true fact was about a woman (Ruth) whose husband died of this terrible disease, and of a little girl (Adria) who was the only one to survive in her family from the cholera. Louie brought Ruth and Adria together, and although life was quite different for the two of them, they survived and made a good life as a family of sorts.
Fast forward twelve years. Adria is now an adult being courted by a well off (and spoiled) young man who expected Adria to change when they wed. Carlton's family owned slaves which was appalling to Adria.
Along comes a young man, new to town, magnetic but lacking any ambition except to travel and be free. This seemed so attractive to Adria. Did she want stability from one relationship, but not be her true self, or could she see herself with a free spirit like Logan Farrell?
Charming book with a great Christian message about praying in faith and trusting God for the outcome.
Slight spoiler including an issue I had with a poor decision...
Aside from that, it was a very good book. Down 1/2 star for that issue, though.
September 17, 2018
Pray Believing
What a powerfully moving novel! All the more so because it is based on a true story. Gabhart has done an incredible job of weaving together fact and fiction into a compelling tale of grit and promise. Beautifully written -- the author has a knack with words that settle deep into a reader's soul. I felt my way through to the end. Heartbreak and anger. Fear and frustration. I was on tenterhooks all the way through.
Adria -- with her spark of independence that leads her to challenge the social norms of the day. Her tender friendship with a slave named Louis that leads her question the morality of slavery.
Ruth -- Adria's foster mother. A widow who buried her heart along with her husband. A secret poet, a gifted teacher with a talent for baking that provides a much needed second income.
Will -- Widowed pastor with a floundering faith. He knows the right things to say and do to shepherd his flock, but his convictions have dimmed.
And Louis -- stalwart man of faith who teaches them all what "pray believing" actually looks like.
"All the time prayers are answered if you pray believin' the Lord is there with you. He can get you through some hard times like them we've had here tonight." (p. 295)
Simply put -- River to Redemption is definitely one of my top picks for 2018!
Book provided courtesy of Baker Publications and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.
What a powerfully moving novel! All the more so because it is based on a true story. Gabhart has done an incredible job of weaving together fact and fiction into a compelling tale of grit and promise. Beautifully written -- the author has a knack with words that settle deep into a reader's soul. I felt my way through to the end. Heartbreak and anger. Fear and frustration. I was on tenterhooks all the way through.
Adria -- with her spark of independence that leads her to challenge the social norms of the day. Her tender friendship with a slave named Louis that leads her question the morality of slavery.
Ruth -- Adria's foster mother. A widow who buried her heart along with her husband. A secret poet, a gifted teacher with a talent for baking that provides a much needed second income.
Will -- Widowed pastor with a floundering faith. He knows the right things to say and do to shepherd his flock, but his convictions have dimmed.
And Louis -- stalwart man of faith who teaches them all what "pray believing" actually looks like.
"All the time prayers are answered if you pray believin' the Lord is there with you. He can get you through some hard times like them we've had here tonight." (p. 295)
Simply put -- River to Redemption is definitely one of my top picks for 2018!
Book provided courtesy of Baker Publications and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.
April 9, 2020
When she needed help the most, a slave, Louis, cared for orphaned Adria Starr. Now, years later, despite the good he has done, Louis is being sold—and Adria is desperate to help him in return.
Ann H. Gabhart’s River to Redemption is heartwrenching, yet heartwarming historical read. Character-driven and faith-filled, the story unfolds at a steady pace, keeping me easily captivated, and I loved it. I highly recommend it to fans of historical, inspirational fiction.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a complimentary copy of River to Redemption and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Ann H. Gabhart’s River to Redemption is heartwrenching, yet heartwarming historical read. Character-driven and faith-filled, the story unfolds at a steady pace, keeping me easily captivated, and I loved it. I highly recommend it to fans of historical, inspirational fiction.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a complimentary copy of River to Redemption and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
July 28, 2020
In Springfield, Kentucky in 1832 when the cholera epidemic swept across the nation many fled for their lives leaving slaves, who had not been affected, Louis and Matilda in charge of the small town. Louis and Matilda had the opportunity at that time to run for freedom but Matilda felt she was too old and Louis felt that wasn’t God’s will for his life. One tenth of the population died of cholera that summer. Louis dug 55 graves to bury the victims of this dreadful disease. 12 years later the town took up money to buy Louis’s freedom and set him up in a small business. This is a fiction story based around these true facts!
River to Redemption is a wonderful story of courage, betrayal and honor.
Miracles happen when you pray believing.
I loved this story from start to finish I wish I could give it 10 stars instead of five!
River to Redemption is a wonderful story of courage, betrayal and honor.
Miracles happen when you pray believing.
I loved this story from start to finish I wish I could give it 10 stars instead of five!
August 7, 2022
Love this story! What a beautiful reminder that we need to always pray believing, that God always hears us and will answer. It may not be the way that we'd like, but we can know that He knows what He's doing even when things don't make any sense. He moves in mysterious ways and loves us more than we could ever imagine.
February 3, 2019
Admirable and inspiring.
River to Redemption is an admirable novel that was very inspiring to read. It causes me to wonder what my own reactions would have been if I had lived during this period in history. What would I have been willing to risk to do the right thing?
River to Redemption is an admirable novel that was very inspiring to read. It causes me to wonder what my own reactions would have been if I had lived during this period in history. What would I have been willing to risk to do the right thing?
June 15, 2018
River to Redemption by Ann H. Gabhart is a poignant and riveting story set in 1834 Kentucky during a time of the devastating cholera epidemic. Courage, betrayal, and honor with have readers turning pages as they follow Adria Starr and Louis, a slave who chose to save lives instead of gaining his freedom. Ms. Gabhart intertwines a true life story with fiction. What a powerful and compelling story of faith, hope and determination.
"I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
"I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
July 5, 2021
Lack of substance
This started off good but then the inconsistencies made the rating of this book went down drastically. I enjoyed the characterization and the slavery element but this only kept my interest for awhile. Yet this didn’t do anything to me when it introduced all these minor characters with no development.
This started off good but then the inconsistencies made the rating of this book went down drastically. I enjoyed the characterization and the slavery element but this only kept my interest for awhile. Yet this didn’t do anything to me when it introduced all these minor characters with no development.
May 19, 2018
When she was seven, Adria Starr's whole world fell apart. Her mama, daddy, and little brother all fell victim to a cholera epidemic that struck their small Kentucky town. A local man (who fled the town at the first whisper of disease), owned a slave named Louis who stayed & did what he could for the survivors and buried all 53 of the dead.
Louis knew that he could not be responsible for Missy Adria, so he takes her to the school teacher's residence, the teacher died, but his wife Ruth Harmon was alive, though grieving the loss of her beloved husband.
Ruth agreed to care for Adria, with Louis checking in regularly and doing odd jobs for the two ladies.
When Louis' owner abruptly dies, his sons decide to sell all of their fathers' belongings, including his slaves. Adria does not believe in slavery and makes it her mission to convince the town to purchase Louis and give him the freedom that he deserves, that all mankind deserves.
A thought provoking book, well worth many readings.
I received a copy of this book from LibraryThing, with no obligation for a review.
Louis knew that he could not be responsible for Missy Adria, so he takes her to the school teacher's residence, the teacher died, but his wife Ruth Harmon was alive, though grieving the loss of her beloved husband.
Ruth agreed to care for Adria, with Louis checking in regularly and doing odd jobs for the two ladies.
When Louis' owner abruptly dies, his sons decide to sell all of their fathers' belongings, including his slaves. Adria does not believe in slavery and makes it her mission to convince the town to purchase Louis and give him the freedom that he deserves, that all mankind deserves.
A thought provoking book, well worth many readings.
I received a copy of this book from LibraryThing, with no obligation for a review.
Read
September 2, 2018River to Redemption is a emotionally moving work of fiction by Ann H. Gabhart. This power story of a little girl that is orphaned in this epidemic cared for by a couple of slaves until she is taken in by a widow. Adria yearns to do what is right by those that have taken care of her. Even though it is still a time where slavery is still supported. She will fight to do what she knows in her heart is right. I was moved to tears by this power story that Ann H. Gabhart has written. I highly recommend River to Redemption.
July 3, 2018
I love it when an author reads a historical fact and decides to create a story around it. This is what Ann H. Gabhart has done in River to Redemption. From the first page I was caught up in the lives of Adria, Louis, Matilda and Ruth in my home state of Kentucky. It is 1833 when the cholera epidemic starts to claim lives in Springfield, Kentucky and families are changed forever. Seven year old Adria Starr loses her mother, father and baby brother to this dreaded disease and in a matter of days she becomes an orphan. The scene when a "black giant" finds her with her dead mother and baby brother will forever remain in my mind. Her fear of this man and her reluctance to leave her mommy and baby Eddie change when he carries her from her house and "away from the bad air" and takes her to his friend Matilda Sims. It is here that Adria finds love and healing and she would have been content to stay with Matilda and Louis forever but they are both black and Louis knows Springfield society will never accept this. He asks the widow of the recently deceased school teacher if she will give Adria a home and we see a family being born.
The characters in this story are very well developed. Adria is like most children and she sees people with her heart and not her eyes. The color of Matilda and Louis's skin has no affect on her love for them. Matilda wants Louis to cross the Ohio River and seek freedom but he feels obligated to remain with his master. Louis is a wise man who often quotes the Bible and he feels that God had a reason to keep him from being one of the few who didn't develop cholera. Kind, caring and faithful, Louis is based on a real person and he reminds me of some older black gentlemen that I knew in my childhood. At first the character Ruth Harmon feels inferior to care for Adria but we see a bond develop and grow between them. Sometimes we all just to need to trust God and let Him do the rest!
River to Redemption spans the years between 1833 and 1845 and readers see how Kentucky was affected by the cholera epidemic that ravaged the area in 1833. A few miles from my own home there is a cemetery where the majority of the graves were for cholera victims. This story allows us to also witness slavery and the beginning of abolition. We watch Adria as she takes up Matilda's efforts in encouraging Louis to seek freedom and the beginning of her secretive support of the abolitionist movement. We rejoice in the strong family unit that was the result of Louis's rescue of seven year old Adria Starr and his wise decision to seek Ruth Harmon's help. And when we read the Author's Note we can feel pride in the citizens of Springfield, Kentucky and their efforts to purchase the real Louis's freedom from slavery.
This book has tragedy and loss but it is also filled with love, faith, hope and the reminder that families are not always created by birth. I appreciate the many references to Bible scripture throughout the book and I especially love that "pray believing" is the cental thought woven throughout this story
Ann H. Gabhart is a Kentucky author and she has written an outstanding book about our state. I recommend River to Redemption for anyone who enjoys historical Christian fiction and I wish that I could give it more than the five stars available!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but I wasn't obligated to post a review. All opinions are my own.
The characters in this story are very well developed. Adria is like most children and she sees people with her heart and not her eyes. The color of Matilda and Louis's skin has no affect on her love for them. Matilda wants Louis to cross the Ohio River and seek freedom but he feels obligated to remain with his master. Louis is a wise man who often quotes the Bible and he feels that God had a reason to keep him from being one of the few who didn't develop cholera. Kind, caring and faithful, Louis is based on a real person and he reminds me of some older black gentlemen that I knew in my childhood. At first the character Ruth Harmon feels inferior to care for Adria but we see a bond develop and grow between them. Sometimes we all just to need to trust God and let Him do the rest!
River to Redemption spans the years between 1833 and 1845 and readers see how Kentucky was affected by the cholera epidemic that ravaged the area in 1833. A few miles from my own home there is a cemetery where the majority of the graves were for cholera victims. This story allows us to also witness slavery and the beginning of abolition. We watch Adria as she takes up Matilda's efforts in encouraging Louis to seek freedom and the beginning of her secretive support of the abolitionist movement. We rejoice in the strong family unit that was the result of Louis's rescue of seven year old Adria Starr and his wise decision to seek Ruth Harmon's help. And when we read the Author's Note we can feel pride in the citizens of Springfield, Kentucky and their efforts to purchase the real Louis's freedom from slavery.
This book has tragedy and loss but it is also filled with love, faith, hope and the reminder that families are not always created by birth. I appreciate the many references to Bible scripture throughout the book and I especially love that "pray believing" is the cental thought woven throughout this story
Ann H. Gabhart is a Kentucky author and she has written an outstanding book about our state. I recommend River to Redemption for anyone who enjoys historical Christian fiction and I wish that I could give it more than the five stars available!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but I wasn't obligated to post a review. All opinions are my own.
July 16, 2018
I am sorry to say this is the first book I have read by Ann H. Gabhart. I can promise you this will not be my last. This is one of my favorite books so far this year. At he end of this novel, I was surprised and blessed to learn that this was about a true event. I would suggest that you keep a box of Kleenex close by.
Ms. Gabhart has a wonderful way of telling historical stories that take place in small towns. There wasn't a lot know about many diseases in 1833.
When a cholera epidemic started in Springfield, Kentucky, people who could, left town. It was thought that this disease was spread through bad air. Later we would learn it is typically contracted through infected water
The story starts with Adria Starr, at age seven. She is lying on the floor next to her mother and baby brother, wondering what she can do to help them. She does not want them to stop breathing like her daddy did. She now too is sick and too weak to help them any longer. There is a knock on the front door and in walks Louis, our true hero. He is a man full of faith, love, and generosity. He was given the keys to the hotel by the owner, his boss and master, told to watch over it and take care of things. When Louis had a chance to gain his freedom, he stayed behind taking care of the sick and burying the dead. Before the pandemic was over, Louis buried fifty-eight people.
The author has a wonderful way of developing her characters, there are so many in this novel that you will fall in love with.
This was not an easy time in history and sometimes it was hard to read. Adria, understandably, had a hard time when twelve years later, this same man is being sold by his owner, despite all the things he did for the town. I loved the way Ms. Gabhart was able to pull light out of this darkness.
Louis was always encouraging Adria with scripture and a smile. There are so many wonderful quotes in this book. I thing my favorite is “You know what made me feel safest after my parents died?” ...“Adria stepped closer to him and took his hand. “I always knew I was safe when you were holding my hand.” His fingers curled around her hand. “You was the sweetest li'l child. When I first laid eyes on you that day a layin' there by your “mama's body and you looked up at me, your big brown eyes went straight to my heart. I knowed the Lord aimed for me to take care of you.” “Now he wants me to take care of you. The two of us, we'll pray the way you did for me when I was a little girl, and the Lord will show us a way.” I loved this book and would recommend it. It's one I may have to read a second time. I received this book from Revell Publishers through NetGalleys. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Ms. Gabhart has a wonderful way of telling historical stories that take place in small towns. There wasn't a lot know about many diseases in 1833.
When a cholera epidemic started in Springfield, Kentucky, people who could, left town. It was thought that this disease was spread through bad air. Later we would learn it is typically contracted through infected water
The story starts with Adria Starr, at age seven. She is lying on the floor next to her mother and baby brother, wondering what she can do to help them. She does not want them to stop breathing like her daddy did. She now too is sick and too weak to help them any longer. There is a knock on the front door and in walks Louis, our true hero. He is a man full of faith, love, and generosity. He was given the keys to the hotel by the owner, his boss and master, told to watch over it and take care of things. When Louis had a chance to gain his freedom, he stayed behind taking care of the sick and burying the dead. Before the pandemic was over, Louis buried fifty-eight people.
The author has a wonderful way of developing her characters, there are so many in this novel that you will fall in love with.
This was not an easy time in history and sometimes it was hard to read. Adria, understandably, had a hard time when twelve years later, this same man is being sold by his owner, despite all the things he did for the town. I loved the way Ms. Gabhart was able to pull light out of this darkness.
Louis was always encouraging Adria with scripture and a smile. There are so many wonderful quotes in this book. I thing my favorite is “You know what made me feel safest after my parents died?” ...“Adria stepped closer to him and took his hand. “I always knew I was safe when you were holding my hand.” His fingers curled around her hand. “You was the sweetest li'l child. When I first laid eyes on you that day a layin' there by your “mama's body and you looked up at me, your big brown eyes went straight to my heart. I knowed the Lord aimed for me to take care of you.” “Now he wants me to take care of you. The two of us, we'll pray the way you did for me when I was a little girl, and the Lord will show us a way.” I loved this book and would recommend it. It's one I may have to read a second time. I received this book from Revell Publishers through NetGalleys. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
June 29, 2018
Ann Gabhart is renown for heartfelt stories from small-town America and this one is no different. This book takes place in a small town of Springfield, KY in the early to mid 1800s, starting with the Cholera epidemic that swept through the world in 1833. It's then that we meet young Adria Starr, who loses her parents and baby brother to the epidemic. She's found in a very sickly state by a slave named Louis, who was left behind when his owner fled town to avoid the epidemic and left Louis in charge of his hotel. Louis takes young Adria back to the hotel where he and another slave, Matilda, nurse her back to health. Once folks begin to drift back into town, they find a new home for Adria. This sets the stage for our story that then jumps ahead 12 years. As a young adult, Adria chafes against social norms. She doesn't really want to be a proper lady and due to her love and affection for the slaves who saved her life, she has some very unpopular opinions about abolishing slavery. This book addresses a lot of difficult topics - about love, freedom, being true to oneself, seeking and waiting on the perfect will of God, and redemption. It does so in a very heartfelt and beautiful way. If you enjoy good historical fiction (in reading the author's note, there is a lot more of this story that is fact than you might initially think) that pulls your heart-strings and really makes you think about what life was like in that time and place, this is one I would strongly recommend. While this story has closure, I do hope this is the beginning of a series as I'd love to see what happens in the next chapters of these characters' lives.
Special thanks to Netgalley and Revell for allowing me and advanced e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to post a review and the thoughts and opinions contained within are my own.
Special thanks to Netgalley and Revell for allowing me and advanced e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to post a review and the thoughts and opinions contained within are my own.
August 16, 2018
Young Adria Starr knew from her early years that slavery was wrong after being cared for by Louis and Matilda, both slaves, after her family succumbed to cholera. Rivers of Redemption is a rich historical read with the detail research Ann Gabhart did for this captivating Historical Christian fiction story shining through. There are moments of tears flowing, hearing the dialect of the slaves talking to young Adria and others, strong faith of Louis, plenty of action, romance and opinionated characters. I appreciate the way Louis’ faith and saying “prayin’ believin’” God for an answer gave Adria just that with her actions as an adult. This is one powerful story that I’m still cherishing after closing the back cover. A book that will resonant with the strong faith message and the struggles of individuals before slavery was abolished in America. I look forward to more truly clean Historical Christian Fiction Romance books by this author.
July 9, 2018
This gripping, heart-warming story with its central theme of prayer is a beautiful story that is sure to not only entertain but to uplift your spirits. It is just what I needed to read! I was easily pulled into the story right from the beginning. The events of the Cholera epidemic sweeping through this small Kentucky town, were heart-wrenching. Louis, an African slave took it upon himself to step in and help where needed. His unwavering faith in God, even through the difficult times is a testament to his character.
While not a face-paced story, I still found myself invested in the lives of the characters and and deeply moved by their struggles. We pray and unburden our hearts to the Father. He always answers. But sometimes the answers aren’t what we expected. Prayer changes things, and it changes us too!
I especially appreciated the fact that this story was based partly on a true story. This book is a poignant reminder that faith and prayer go hand-in-hand. We each have the daily opportunity to be a beacon of faith and an example of what trusting in God looks like to the others in our communities.
This engaging story is filled with moments of tender romance, laughter, adventure, tears of sadness and tears of joy, a couple of surprises and most importantly a strong faith. I give this story 4.5 stars and would encourage you to pick-up a copy for yourself to enjoy!
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I am not required to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.)
While not a face-paced story, I still found myself invested in the lives of the characters and and deeply moved by their struggles. We pray and unburden our hearts to the Father. He always answers. But sometimes the answers aren’t what we expected. Prayer changes things, and it changes us too!
I especially appreciated the fact that this story was based partly on a true story. This book is a poignant reminder that faith and prayer go hand-in-hand. We each have the daily opportunity to be a beacon of faith and an example of what trusting in God looks like to the others in our communities.
This engaging story is filled with moments of tender romance, laughter, adventure, tears of sadness and tears of joy, a couple of surprises and most importantly a strong faith. I give this story 4.5 stars and would encourage you to pick-up a copy for yourself to enjoy!
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I am not required to write a positive review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.)
August 1, 2018
Ann Gabhart pens a painful look back at our past when not all were considered equal. To entertain the opposite thought, as a person of color could bring punishment or death; as a white, it could mean ostracization or physical danger as well.
Gabhart’s narrative begins in the summer of 1833 when a cholera epidemic ran rampant around much of the US. Seven-year-old Adria Starr watches as her father, mother, and brother all die from the disease. Louis, a slave whom she has never before seen, rescues her and helps Matilda nurse Adria back to health.
Louis is an amazing character. I love the way he trusts God, cares for others at risk to his own safety and does not seek the best in life for himself.
Matilda longs for freedom but also possesses a very strong faith. Over and over, her response to obstacles is the faith-filled refrain, “The Lord will provide.”
I love the way Adria, Ruth, Will, Carlton, and even Logan all show character development and great wrestling with life decisions. All have to decide what they will do with the question of slavery and how deeply will they get involved. What cost is each willing to pay to address the flowing tide that refuses to be ignored or dammed up? Who will find physical redemption and who will find redemption for his soul?
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to better understand some of the soul-searching times leading up to the Civil War. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. No positive review was required. All opinions are strictly my own.
Gabhart’s narrative begins in the summer of 1833 when a cholera epidemic ran rampant around much of the US. Seven-year-old Adria Starr watches as her father, mother, and brother all die from the disease. Louis, a slave whom she has never before seen, rescues her and helps Matilda nurse Adria back to health.
Louis is an amazing character. I love the way he trusts God, cares for others at risk to his own safety and does not seek the best in life for himself.
Matilda longs for freedom but also possesses a very strong faith. Over and over, her response to obstacles is the faith-filled refrain, “The Lord will provide.”
I love the way Adria, Ruth, Will, Carlton, and even Logan all show character development and great wrestling with life decisions. All have to decide what they will do with the question of slavery and how deeply will they get involved. What cost is each willing to pay to address the flowing tide that refuses to be ignored or dammed up? Who will find physical redemption and who will find redemption for his soul?
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to better understand some of the soul-searching times leading up to the Civil War. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. No positive review was required. All opinions are strictly my own.
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