Peyton's Promise

Thousand Islands Gilded Age #2

by Susan G. Mathis

Summer 1902

Peyton Quinn is tasked with preparing the grand Calumet Castle ballroom for a spectacular two-hundred-guest summer gala. As she works in a male-dominated position of upholsterer and fights for women's equality, she's persecuted for her unorthodox ways. But when her pyrotechnics-engineer father is seriously hurt, she takes over the plans for the fireworks display despite being socially ostracized.


Patrick Taylor, Calumet's carpenter and Peyton's childhood chum, hopes to win her heart, but her unconventional undertakings cause a rift. Peyton has to ignore the prejudices and persevere or she could lose her job, forfeit Patrick's love and respect, and forever become the talk of local gossips.

Genres: Historical Fiction

291 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2022

About the author

ABOUT SUSAN:
Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands, her childhood stomping ground in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has sixteen in her fiction line including, The Fabric of Hope: An Irish Family Legacy, Christmas Charity, Katelyn’s Choice, Devyn’s Dilemma, Sara’s Surprise, Reagan’s Reward, Colleen’s Confession, Peyton’s Promise, Rachel’s Reunion, Mary’s Moment, A Summer at Thousand Island House, Libby’s Lighthouse, Julia’s Joy, Emma’s Engagement, Madison’s Mission, and Irish Rose Orphans' Christmas. Her book awards include four Illumination Book Awards, four American Fiction Awards, three Indie Excellence Book Awards, five Literary Titan Book Awards, two Golden Scroll Awards, a Living Now Book Award, and a Selah Award.

Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, two children’s picture books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan makes her home in Northern Virginia and enjoys traveling around the world but returns each summer to enjoy the Thousand Islands. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.
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What people are saying about Susan’s stories:

Susan G Mathis never fails to pack her books with memorable characters. ~Margaret Brownley, N.Y. Times bestselling author

Could it be my imagination, or is each Thousand Island story from Susan G Mathis better than the last? It’s hard to tell because they’re all delightful! ~Kathleen Rouser, award-winning author of Rumors and Promises

Like a monarch emerging from her cocoon, Susan's characters spread their wings in Mathis’s Thousand Island Gilded Age novels and learn how to fly with beauty and grace. ~Melanie Dobson, award-winning author of Catching the Wind and the Legacy of Love series

Spun with mystery, romance, and atmospheric history, Susan's stories capture readers' imaginations in a world divided by class yet brought together by the common bonds of humanity and love. A story Downton Abbey fans won't want to miss! ~J'nell Ciesielski, author of Among the Poppies and The Songbird and the Spy

Susan G Mathis has written another story full of history, love, and faith. She weaves a tale of longing, intrigue, and mystery around real-life people and events. A must-read for any fan of well-written fiction. ~Donna Schlachter, historical fiction author

Mathis's delightful writing style is

Reviews

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a sweet friends to more story. I liked how the story started out with Peyton trying to prove herself and relying on herself for success, but I liked that as the story progressed she started to realize that she needed to rely on God. I also liked how Patrick was there trying to help her to trust God.I also liked how he was trying to help her see him as more than a friend. I liked how they both had things they struggled with but they were able to rely on each other and God to get through it. I liked how the romance progressed and I liked that this story showed that you can seek for change in the world even when others may not agree.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful book that shows how one woman wanted to prove that she could do any job that a man could. Peyton is perhaps one of my all time favorite characters. She is spunky, determined and is very gifted in her craft. I loved the time period which shows that women were beginning to fight for their right to vote. I can’t imagine not being able to vote simply because you are a woman. We have certainly made strides since those times in history.

Peyton has been asked to reupholster the furniture at the Calumet Castle. The description of this massive place is breathtaking. I think I would need a map to find my way around there. The decor is elegant and with Peyton’s gift she will turn the castle into something of beauty. I was fascinated by her work and the author did her homework to give us details about upholstery, materials and how much work is involved to turn a piece of furniture into something that brings warmth and beauty to each room.

Patrick has known Peyton since they were children. In fact they were best friends. It was nice to see them working at the castle at the same time. Patrick has always had feelings for Peyton but now that they are grown his feelings seem even stronger. The author gives a glimpse into Patrick’s childhood and shares how cruel his father was to him. That bitterness still stands today even when he sees him at church. His hatred for his father is concerning for Peyton. Will he be able to forgive his father and be free to find happiness?

There is a little mystery going as someone is sabotage Peyton and Patrick’s work around the castle. Who is so vindictive that they would destroy such precious items and all the hard work that was put into it? I had my suspect in mind but I wasn’t quite sure so I read as fast as I could to find out who the culprit was.

With everything going on Peyton and Patrick find themselves with a day off. It is perfect timing as they can help Peyton’s father with the fireworks display that evening. It is sure to be spectacular with vivid colors blasting across the sky. We get a great lesson on how fireworks work and I appreciated the author including this to help readers understand what it takes to put on a show for all to enjoy.

This has been a wonderful adventure where forgiveness, unconditional love and finding your worth make for a touching story. I love how Peyton never gave into the gossip about her and continued to follow her dream. Patrick encouraged me to let go of my bitterness towards someone and find peace with God.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Susan Mathis has penned another heartfelt installment in her Thousand Islands Gilded Age historical fiction romance series. Peyton’s Promise (Book 3) is set predominately on Calumet Island where we meet Peyton Quinn, a forward-thinking upholsterer hired by the Emery Family to upgrade the furniture in the Calumet Castle before a large-scale summer gala. On her arrival, she is unexpectedly reunited with her childhood best friend, Patrick Taylor, who is also working at the castle as a finish carpenter. After several years apart and out of communication, Peyton and Patrick struggle to define their relationship now that they are adults whose differing life experiences have shaped their world views. A series of incidents, ranging from difficult co-workers to devastating accidents, cause both Peyton and Patrick to re-examine their relationships with each other, their parents and their Heavenly father. Mathis has once again painted a vivid picture of the complex lives of the early 1900s American “royalty” and their below stairs staff set against the richly textured background of the Thousand Islands in upstate New York. She has brought historical characters to life and added realistic and relatable main characters in Peyton, Patrick, Mr. Quinn, as well as other unforgettable supporting characters. The painstaking research that must have gone into Mathis’ descriptions of procedures for upholstery, finish carpentry and fireworks assembly and presentation provide incredible details to really picture how her characters are engaged. I highly recommend this sweet historical romance, as well as the previous two books in the Thousand Islands Gilded Age series: Katelyn's Choice (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07...) and Devyn's Dilemma (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08...).

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peyton’s Promise by Susan G. Mathis is part of her Thousand Islands Gilded Age historical romance series. This is the first book that I have read by the author. Since I have not read any of the other books in the Thousand Islands Gilded Age series, I did not have any problems following along. The author did careful research to have her story be as realistic as possible. I love when history comes alive off the pages.

Peyton and Patrick were childhood friends. They are reunited when Patrick is working as a Carpenter and Peyton is brought in to re-upholster furniture in the Calumet Castle. The Castle will be hosting a 200 guest summer gala. Patrick has strong feelings for Peyton, but is caught off guard when he realizes has very suffragette feelings about women and their rights. She has been trained in a traditional mans role.

The head mistress for the Castle is not a very likeable person. She seems to dislike Peyton the minute she arrives. Rachel, Peyton's roommate was one of my favorite secondary characters. She worked really hard I hope to see her story in the future. I really enjoyed this story. It's well written, storyline is unique and I felt the author was spot on with her research.

Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.

[Janet Grunst · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Peyton’s Promise, Susan Mathis has another charming story set in the Thousand Islands of the St. Lawrence River. By 1902 the Progressive Era of intense social and political reform was well underway and Peyton Quinn was embracing it wholeheartedly. She’s completed her training as an upholsterer and has secured a job restoring the furnishings at Calumet Castle on the island of the same name. To Peyton’s surprise, her childhood friend Patrick Taylor is also working there as a carpenter. Peyton and Patrick’s long-held attitudes may keep those early sparks from heating up.

[Kathleen Rouser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mathis weaves together fact and fiction in another richly detailed historical romance. As childhood friends, Peyton and Patrick, become reacquainted, they face mutual foes, moments of joy, and weather tragedy. This tale of love, renewed faith, and forgiveness will hit the spot for fans of historical fiction. Another engaging inspirational romance from Susan G. Mathis!

[Donna Schlachter]

From the rich history and exquisite setting woven through the story, to the secrets both main characters hide from each other—you won’t want to put this book down until you’ve consumed every word. Highly recommended.

[Sandra Arbeni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic.

What a wonderful work of Christian fiction. A lot of love and research went into creating a fairytale worth reading. There were a lot of twists and curves with an outstanding work of true art

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Peyton arrived at Calumet Castle for a summer job, she had only a vague idea of what to expect. She knew of her wealthy employers and that her progressive ideas and choice of career made her a target for the social circles but little else. It came as a huge shock to find herself working alongside her childhood best friend, Patrick, and in turn, they were both shocked at how much their three-year absence from each other had changed them. Rekindling her relationship with Patrick, navigating new feelings for him, rediscovering her faith, trying not to anger the staunchly old-fashioned housekeeper of the castle, and doing her actual job give Peyton a busy and conflicted summer to contend with.

Peyton’s Promise is the third novel by Susan Mathis in her Thousand Island Gilded Age Series. Set in the Thousand Islands, on the St. Lawrence river, these stories take the setting and make it a palpable part of the story being told. Peyton’s Promise is no exception, describing the sights and homes of the area with beautiful depth and recreating what it might have been like in the early years of the 20th century when the area was a popular destination for many of the wealthy elite in society.

Mathis is adept at weaving historical figures into her fiction and has done so in this story with the Emerys. Calumet Castle’s owners function as the mostly absent champions of Peyton’s work, an upholsterer beyond her apprenticeship. Mathis always includes a brief note to explain the real history she has included, with details about the families, their homes, and more about the area.

Peyton’s Promise has a similar feeling to the other Thousand Island stories. Readers will find enjoyment and take comfort in returning to the beloved landscape and having the experience of revisiting a favorite vacation location. The storyline moves quickly with an internally conflicted heroine, a love interest that seems too much at odds to ever succeed, and a rival antagonist that seems on the cusp of bringing disaster more than once. This book is truly wonderful and difficult to put down! The pacing has readers engaged from start to finish. Additionally, the amount of detail included about the Islands is just enough to encourage some further research. They are perfect for a light read for those that love a Christian historical romance novel.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set at the turn of the last century, Peyton’s Promise portrays the difficulty women faced in the changing world - wanting to move forward with equal rights for women yet being criticized for doing so. Susan G. Mathis has successfully captured the angst of a young progressive woman of the time.
Peyton was introduced to suffragist ideas during her three year apprenticeship in the world of upholstery (a man’s profession at the time). She is also separated a bit from her Christian upbringing as the people she works for do not regularly attend church.
Patrick was Peyton’s closest friend growing up. He hasn’t seen her for three years - he has been away learning the carpentry trade. He has held fast to the Christian beliefs he grew up with. He has also held fast to his love for Peyton.
They both end up working for the same employer on Calumet Island - working to restore the castle. How will Peyton handle the animosity toward her suffragist beliefs and the fact that she is a woman with what has traditionally been a man’s job? How will she combine these beliefs with a potential return to the Christian beliefs of her childhood? How will Patrick handle his traditional views of women with who the woman he loves has become?
I enjoyed the way Susan Mathis wove the historical aspects of the story together with the religious beliefs of the characters. Faith in God is portrayed in a seamless way. She also includes enough mystery and conflict to keep the story moving forward and keep the reader reading.
I look forward to reading more by Susan G. Mathis.
Even though Peyton’s Promise is adult historical fiction, it could find its way into a K-12 Christian school library. I think it would appeal to high school students.
I received a complimentary copy of Peyton’s Promise. This is my honest review.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian Historical Romance books are a favorite genre of mine. Peyton's Promise by Susan G. Mathis is Book 3 in the Thousand Islands Gilded Age series. I have not read the first 2 books in the series, but the book read well as a Stand Alone book.

The time is Summer 1902 and the setting is Calumet Island. Peyton Quinn is a Female Furniture Upholster, although the business is still male-dominated. Peyton has accepted the task of preparing the Grand Ballroom of Calumet Castle for the Summer Gala. Peyton is constantly fighting for equality for women in the workplace, and in turn, others ridicule her for her ideas. Peyton's father is in charge of running the Local Fireworks display. He is seriously injured, so Peyton takes on that task also even though the townspeople ostracize her. Peyton is quite surprised when she discovers Patrick Taylor, a childhood friend, is the carpenter for the Calumet Castle project. Patrick would love to be in a relationship with Peyton, but because of her beliefs that a woman can do a "Man's Job", there is a disagreement between the pair. Can Peyton overcome the stares and thoughts of the Townspeople? Will there be a relationship between Peyton and Patrick?

I truly enjoyed this book from the very beginning. I LOVE that Peyton is a very determined and independent Woman. The author did a great job at the Historical accuracy and the time of Women fighting for equal rights. Patrick is a man of faith and loves his job as a Carpenter and he also had strong feelings for Peyton. I LOVE how through the stubbornness, Peyton begins to rely more on God and her faith as does Patrick. Thi is a book about Second Chances, Faith, and LOVE! GREAT BOOK!

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Peyton’s Promise by Susan G. Mathis is part of her Thousand Islands Gilded Age historical romance series.

In a castle on a remote island, Peyton Quinn is reunited with her childhood best friend Patrick Taylor. They parted on difficult terms, but Patrick’s feelings for her have only matured. Peyton, on the other hand, has developed strong opinions on women’s rights, taking on a man’s job and standing firm in her independence.

I loved learning more about upholstery and fireworks in the early 1900s! The details were amazing! I enjoy learning about different jobs by reading books. I also appreciated the varying opinions expressed on women’s rights, both for and against, and in between. Add in the spiritual lessons and there was a lot packed into this story!

If you enjoy sweet romance with lots of historical detail and a faith message, then definitely grab a copy of Peyton’s Promise. I haven’t read the other books in the series, but after reading this one, I’d like to.

—
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gilded Age Romance

In the third installment of her Thousand Islands Gilded Age series author Susan G. Mathis transports readers back to the turn of the last century with her scenic and beautiful descriptions of the Thousand Islands region in New York state. This book was about a childhood friends-to-more romance that developed between Patrick Taylor and Peyton Quinn when they each had jobs at Calumet Castle in the summer of 1902. While I didn’t care for Peyton’s personality at first, I came to appreciate the insights she gleaned over time as she sorted out what was most important. Patrick was an admirable hero as he patiently waited for Peyton to return his regard. Peyton’s upholstering skills were interesting to read about as were the descriptions of how fireworks were put together. Inspirational faith themes of forgiveness and not judging others were a subtle and natural part of the story. While this book is part of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone.

I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher via Celebrate Lit Bloggers and Reviewers. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are completely my own.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peyton’s Promise is a wonderful historical fiction novel that includes friends to more relationships on top of a lady doing men’s work. I love a good historical fiction novel and this was a wonderful one to read. So sweet and fun!

Have you ever visited a castle? I’ve always wanted to and this castle sounds like so much fun. Peyton has her work cut out for her with the headmistress in charge not being a huge fan of her. But her roommate is fun and a wonderful character that I’d love to meet!

Add in some troubles and trials which make the novel pop right along. Sometimes romance novels tend to drag for me but this one didn’t and I loved it! Great book and I can’t wait to read more in this series.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peyton’s Promise, a Christian historical novel, combines historical fact with fiction in a mix that proved to be captivating. During a time when women’s equality is the talk of the times, Peyton works in a male-dominated profession – upholsterer. Being reunited with her childhood friend – Patrick, also known as Paddy”, the two try to find their way in the world.

Filled with a journey towards God as a father, and faith, this book contains characters who support Peyton while others attack her beliefs and lifestyle. When an injury forces her pyrotechnics-engineer father to the sidelines, Peyton and Patrick come together to fulfill his obligations.

With the support of family, friends, co-workers, and even the mistress of the home, the two find their way to each other and to the future God has called them to in life.

So if you enjoy Christian historical fiction based on fact, check out this book for yourself. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have anticipated Peyton’s Promise since finishing Devyn’s Dilemma and was not disappointed. Another wonderful addition to the Thousand Islands series, the story gives another aspect of life “below stairs” in the Gilded Age mansions. I love reading about historical women in unusual occupations, and Peyton is an upholsterer, a job typically held by men in that era. It was interesting to learn about the trade and some of the “technical” aspects of covering furniture. References to colors and patterns remind readers of the decor of the era. Peyton is strong-willed without being modern or inappropriate for time period, and her relationship with her father is delightful. I enjoyed Patrick, especially watching him come to terms with this “new” Peyton who has grown and matured since they’ve been apart. I liked Peyton’s roommate Rachel and hope she gets a book of her own.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Peyton's Promise is the third installment from the Thousand Islands Gilded Age Series and my first experience in reading books by Susan G. Mathis. Since I have not read the first two books in the series and I believe this one can be read as a stand alone. I enjoyed this sweet little story between Patrick and Peyton. I loved the faith element and the lesson of forgiveness. I thought it was a delightful, quick and a great read.

Peyton's Promise is getting four and a half stars from me. I believe fans of clean historical fiction will enjoy this one as much as I did. I will be keeping an eye out for more books by Susan G. Mathis.
I received a paperback copy of Peyton's Promise from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always enjoy a good friends to more story and this one truly was good. I liked both Patrick and Peyton. Their childhood friendship could blossom into more if they let it and don’t let the world get in the way.

I like the author’s writing style and the fact that Peyton isn’t in a typically female role in the story. It was a good story to read and has some nice faith and moral nuggets you can pick up and ponder on. Really good read.

4/5

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

[Alicia Whittle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mathis has brought to the forefront the vivid picture of the Gilded Age through the lives of Peyton and Patrick. With the setting on one of the Thousand Islands in the St. Lawrence River, the author shares historical details and the faith of two people drawn together by their past. The opposite goals of Peyton and Patrick weave an intriguing story of romance that causes the reader to cheer for the couple. If you enjoy clean, inspirational romance filled with historical vividness during the era of suffrage, this book is for you.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was really inspiring. It is a tale of love and forgiveness and finding lost faith. I haven’t read the other books in this series but after reading this book, I definitely want to. This is also a story about following your own dreams. This book also has moments of sadness but I am glad I kept reading it.
I was given a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Janet Bly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mathis discloses emotional complexity as Peyton deals with enlightenment and suffrage. She and childhood chum, Patrick, face testing by danger and illness, sabotage and vandalism, challenges to faith, and the hard road to forgiveness. In addition, the story has the right touch of historical detail as well as the charm of living on an island in a castle at the turn of the twentieth century.

[Lorraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quality Christian Reading!

If you like a enjoy reading about the turn of the century and the struggles women went through you will enjoy this novel.
The characters are real and suffer from mean, jealous people because they are just a little different in their thinking. It is full of Christian references and good old Irish wisdom. Thank you Susan for a truly great book.

[Mary Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peytons promise.

I loved this story it's full of love and hope. The characters add to the richness of the tale. As expected some of the characters cause problems along the way but always to be overcome.

[Shelly Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you

Thank you Susan for writing about The Thousand Islands. Looking forward to others. Perhaps you will write about Boldt Castle and Heart Island.

[Deon]

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feb 21, 2023
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