Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana

Legacy of Love #2

by Melanie Dobson

The Kindle version of this novel is now available as The A Legacy of Love Novel --In a divided town during a dangerous era, who can be trusted? Liberty, Indiana, is home to a stop on the Underground Railroad operated by Anna Brent and her father, covert abolitionists who harbor runaway slaves traveling toward freedom. The Brents must be very careful; anyone caught aiding runaways is subject to imprisonment under the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. So when Anna begins to write columns denouncing slavery in the local newspaper, she must adopt a pen name. Even the newspaper's editor, Daniel Stanton, does not know the author's true identity. Daniel takes a risk publishing the columns--his job, his newspaper, and his very life might be in danger. When Anna's work on the Underground Railroad is threatened, can she turn to Daniel, a man she barely knows, to ensure the safety of the slaves so dear to her? Will she and Daniel be willing to risk everything for their beliefs--including their personal liberty?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Christian, Historical, Romance, Fiction, Historical Romance

348 pages, Paperback

First published May 28, 2009

About the author

Writing fiction is a fun excuse for Melanie to explore ghost towns and old houses, travel to unusual places, and spend hours reading dusty books and journals. She writes both contemporary and historical fiction with threads of romance and suspense.

Melanie is the award-winning author of almost thirty time-slip, historical romance, suspense, and contemporary novels including Catching the Wind, The Winter Rose, and The Wings of Poppy Pendleton. Five of her novels including Chateau of Secrets have won Carol Awards, Catching the Wind won the Audie 2018 Inspirational Fiction award, and Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana won Best Novel of Indiana. Catching the Wind and Memories of Glass were both finalists for Christy Awards in historical fiction.

Melanie and her husband, Jon, have two daughters. After moving numerous times with Jon's work, the Dobsons have finally settled near Portland, Oregon, and they love to travel and hike in both the mountains and the cliffs above the Pacific. When Melanie isn't writing or researching, she enjoys line dancing, biking, and making up stories with her kids.

More information about her and her books is available on her website at www.melaniedobson.com. You can also connect with Melanie at www.facebook.com/melaniedobsonfiction.

Reviews

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melanie Dobson has a versatility in her writing that is simply incredible. I always know that when I pick up one of her novels, I'm going to be impressed at her research and attention to detail. The subjects that she chooses to write about are all common (at least, what I've read so far), but her presentation of them is what I appreciate the most.

Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana is a suspenseful story about a Quaker father and daughter working on the Underground Railroad. At the very beginning of the story, I was quickly pulled into the plot of one of the slaves that was traveling with her newborn baby. I knew the novel would focus on Anna as a conductor, but since the conductors are not supposed to know what happens to their passengers as they travel north, I didn't think I would be reading more about this woman and her baby. While her particular journey was difficult to read, it tied in exactly the way it was supposed to with the rest of the story.

Also part of this story is Daniel, a local newspaper journalist who is passionate about seeing people freed from slavery. He is outspoken in his views, and at one point believes Anna to support slavery. Since conductors had to be so secretive of their jobs on the Underground Railroad, she has to fudge the truth a bit as to not reveal her important role.

While I'm so thankful that we are free from the slavery of our country's past, I was so glad to read about these characters and how their lives were impacted as they traveled the Underground Railroad. I cannot imagine the journeys that they took, knowing they may be caught and returned to their masters only to be beaten and abused. I also cannot fathom being a mother of a newborn baby, trying to escape to save my own life plus the life of my innocent child. It leaves me speechless and heartbroken that people had to endure such cruelty and pain.

While sad in some parts, there are many happy moments sprinkled throughout the suspense, and there's just enough romance to make you feel warm and fuzzy inside. The supporting characters were all expertly included and rounded out the story quite well. I am happy to give this book a well-deserved 5 star rating, and ready to read my next Melanie Dobson novel!

[Joleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

2019 update:
Published under two names:
Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana as a "Love Finds You" book, and
The Runaway when it became a part of "Legacy of Love" series.

I did not review this as The Runaway in June 2014. I have no idea if the new name has changed the book.

My review of Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana:

Well, well, well....I have to say, this surprised me. I'm not sure why I picked this up because I wasn't in the mood for another syrupy sweet typical story about a girl who needs help,' and along comes someone she doesn't like, but through his persistence he helps her, they fall in love and ride off you know where.

THIS book was not like that...

Immediately when Quaker Anna Brent saw Daniel Stanton debating a slave owner, she was taken with his abolitionist stance, not to mention his striking looks. But he doesn't know she's a station-master for the Underground Railroad and to keep it that way she can trust no one, nor can she ever marry.

She, as with everyone assisting the railroad, takes risks that jeopardize her whole household, and the slaves they hide and pass along to Canada.

Things I learned:

There are false names for the conductor, and none of the station masters know each other, nor their names. They can trust no one.

No station master is supposed to go to the house of another station master...they only know the way so they can give directions to the slaves as they go from one station to the other, where they are fed, rested, then sent on.

There are signals at each house to let the slaves know if it's safe to approach...like flower pots or quilts outside, or lights on in a certain room.

Even freed slaves with jobs in a town weren't safe, as a slave hunter could whisk them off and sell them into slavery after destroying their freedom papers.

There were black slave hunters...in other words, they were big, freed slaves who hunted their own kind and brought them back to their master for a bounty...Often that returned slave was killed or in some other way brutalized to make them an example.

No, this was not some piece of fluff. Thought provoking, intense at times, entertaining and well written.

Yes, I do recommend this book.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Indiana 1850

Engaging! The Runaway shows different aspects/opinions about slavery during the time period. There were two main threads that intertwined and both captured my interest. In one thread, readers travel with young Marie on the Underground Railroad. In the second thread, there is Anna, a young woman dedicated to being a part of helping slaves escape to Canada. There's a touch of romance but it's a very minor part of the novel.

[Rachel Brand · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! I read it in less than 24 hours as it was so hard to put down. I've always been interested in the underground railroad, it's a period of American history that fascinates me immensely, perhaps because nothing compares to it in British history. I studied the US Civil War during my last year of high school and focused a lot on the laws surrounding slavery that existed in the years prior to war breaking out, so it was interesting to see these laws in action in this book and to witness how they affected those who were brave enough to go against the law and hide fugitives. I've read a number of fictionalised accounts of men and women who aided slaves in the fight for their freedom, and this was definitely one of the most compelling ones. There were parts in this story where I honestly could feel my heart racing with anticipation of what was going to happen next and whether Anna and her father were going to get caught. There were plenty of twists in this book and I genuinely didn't suspect any of them.

One downside to the novel, I suppose, is that the romantic aspect is very minimal. Normally I wouldn't complain, as I'm a greater lover of standard historical novels and the historical narrative of the novel could stand on its own quite well without the romance between Anna and Daniel. But this is advertised as a romance novel and is part of the "Love Finds You" series from Summerside Press, so I think it's fair to warn potential readers that the romance is very much in the background for most of the story.

I'd also caution that while I loved learning about the Quakers and their traditions (the way that they approach marriage ceremonies was fascinating and really made me think about the way that my culture approaches weddings) I felt that the spiritual aspect of the novel was also very much in the background, at least until near the end of the novel where Anna ends up spending a lot of time in quiet contemplation with her Bible. I would have hoped that, Anna being a good Quaker girl, she would have prayed more when she found herself in trouble? Maybe it's just my personal preference when it comes to Christian fiction, but I had hoped for a bit more of a spiritual engagement, especially when Anna's religious convictions played such a large part in why she aided runaway slaves. That said, the gentle spiritual aspect of this story makes it suitable to recommend to a friend who isn't a Christian as it isn't overbearing in the slightest.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and would recommend it to fans of historical fiction, including those who wouldn't normally read a romance novel. I loved Melanie Dobson's writing style and will definitely be reading more from her, especially since I got another of her Love Finds You books free on my Kindle a few months ago. Even if I hadn't read her Foreward, I would have known that she'd spend a lot of time researching the history of Liberty, Indiana. Not an author or book to be missed if you like attention to detail in your historical novels! 9/10

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a hard-to-put-down historical novel, looking at the tragedies of slavery in early America and the brave lives of those who helped them escape, and their reasons for doing so. It was more history than romance, for which I am thankful, but there was still a bit more emphasis on emotional romantic responses than I like. Also, I'm not sure if the Quaker views were portrayed quite accurately. But the bravery of the characters was inspiring.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't of been more surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. My first read by Melanie Dobson and it was layered in historical goodness. Abolitionist Quaker and many interesting side characters made this an exciting and quite unpredictable read. My most favorite part was the low romance level between the pages. Oh how I wish I could find more like this one!

[writer... · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical depiction of escaping slaves and hosts of Underground Railroad locations. A focus on the freedom and quality of life to be found at the intended Canadian destination of the slaves ' journeys as they flee. Tangible desire for the opportunity of a life possible outside their fears of slave owner constraints and great tension of determination and anticipation as the story develops.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally loved this book! The way she portrays those who helped with the underground railroad takes you back in history to one of our nation's toughest issue of slavery. Her writing pulls you in and makes you want to read more. Plus, I'm a huge history person, so this was a good read for me. :D

[Jacque Stengel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This not your average sweet romance. This is a step into the history books in a way that will teach you something not often taught in school. Liberty, Indiana is a stop on the Underground Railroad. Anna Brent and her father who under the radar, help many runaway slaves traveling toward the freedom in the north. They know they have to be careful, because the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 can cause them serious trouble. Anna, who already had started denouncing slavery under a pen name, comes face to face with an outspoken editor, Daniel Stanton and has to hide her true feelings on the subject of slavery for fear of being found out. The whole town becomes involved in the argument of the day and lines are crossed. Anna needs to trust someone, but who can be trusted in this dangerous era?



What made me smile:

Making me smile actually didn't happen too much in this book. The book was a deep dark look into a very bad part of our history and Ms. Dobson did it justice. Looking toward God and knowing the right path and doing the right thing can sometimes be hard, but Anna took the Lord's promise and laws to heart and followed the best she could. Even if you don't know much about that part of history, this book will fill you in on so many details of the mid 1800's. I learned so much, but was entertained so it never felt like I was in history class. Even though this is a 'romance', I found much more suspense than actual romance. The suspense kept me so interested I finished the book in a day. I had to know what was going on and Ms. Dobson kept throwing surprises in my face left and right.


What I didn't like:
Although I really liked the book it was a little dark for this particular Love Finds You line I thought. The other books I have read in the series have been light hearted stories and this one was so much deeper.


In Summary:
Highly recommend this book, but keep in mind it is a dark, sad romantic tale. I especially encourage those that love history to see this part of our history. Let your teens read this book and learn what our ancestors were made of before the vampire craze came along!

[Virginia Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

This was such an immersive, engaging, and powerful read! Not only was it a pleasure to read but it was heartfelt and emotional. I loved the courage, bravery, and faith displayed. There's great suspense, well-executed POV switches, and as one who is not a big romance reader, the romance in this was just right for me. I will MOST DEFINITELY continue the series!

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Well written, suspenseful novel about the Underground Railroad..

[Marguerite Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned so much that history texts did not teach me. The reader journeys with slaves and freemen through a small station along the Underground Railroad. This is no easy feat even in a free state like Indiana. Anna does what she can to light a path to freedom even as the obstacles morph into huge Goliath type slave hunters. Is she willing to be the hunted?
History is full of reminders (ugly and radiant) of how far we've come in treatment of fellow travelers and how far we can digress. The choice is one each individual needs to make--even today. Thanks to authors like Melanie Dobson, these fictional characters give us hope for a better, loving world.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's such a good story about a historic event! I enjoyed reading about the underground railroad in Indiana.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melanie Dobson is a diverse and talented author. It's crazy, but I love every book she's written that is on the market. Every single one. Love Finds you in Liberty, Indiana is no exception. It's interesting, compelling, emotional and gripping. I didn't want to do anything except read this book. I finished it a few days ago but didn't have time to post a review until now. The characters are strong and yet realistic. The attraction makes sense and goes deeper than just a pretty face. The element of danger will leave you a bit breathless. Every time those slave hunters showed up I swear I held my breath! And not only is the story compelling, but it was well-researched.

I would highly recommend this to parents who homeschool their teens. The story is clean and wouldn't make your grandma blush, but it's also jam packed with content that will teach youth to have greater compassion on people in less fortunate situations. It also teaches the value in self-sacrifice and loving God and people enough to sacrifice your own freedom so that others may benefit and experience it as well. I even learned about about the Fugitive Slave Act and how much it negatively affected everyone at the time. It reminded me so much of the Holocaust. And in reality, it was America's Holocaust. The reader can easily see how this issue propelled the country into the Civil War.

Bottom line, this was an awesome story and I totally loved it. While not edgy, it was top notch writing and compelling enough to keep me reading. I cared about the characters...every last one of them.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book!! Melanie Dobson has created a novel that will help you vicariously experience what it might have been like to be a station master on the underground railroad and the many sacrifices and dangers they faced. She also seems to understand the apprehensions and fears a slave might have experienced on their journey and the reasons they might have given for taking the risk and attempting to ride it to freedom. I enjoy reading about the underground railroad, and this is the best fiction book I have encountered that is set during that time period. So many others are interesting and full of well-researched details, but don't seem to have Ms. Dobsons ability to involve the reader in the story and make them feel they are actually there. It made me proud to live in Indiana and be from a Quaker background, knowing that some of my ancestors were possibly involved in the activities that this book describes so vividly. The other aspect of the book I appreciated was that a romance was developing between two of the main characters, but the author did not allow that to overwhelm the storyline and become the focus of the book. The character development and setting were realistic and heartwarming. I have put Melanie Dobson's other books on my "to read" list.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was okay but nothing that really made it stand out. There wasn't all that much romance until the last three or four chapters, which made it better in my opinion.

I do have one bone to pick though, I did feel brow beaten by why slavery and the south was wrong. The message was, in my opinion, overdone for the audience of this book. I also felt that the author did a poor job of representing the reasons people thought slavery was okay. Some of the reasons she hit head on (like that some people did think the blacks were and inferior race and/or made to serve others) but she missed some of the other reasons which I will not get into here as I have already ranted about this long enough.

The story was suspenseful and kept me turning pages. It had some unexpected twists. I also enjoyed reading a fictional story about the Underground Railroad.

This was a fun one time read, but not anything amazing.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Would anyone suspect that the beautiful Quaker, Anna Brent was harboring runaway slaves in her attic?

Liberty, Indiana served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, as brave Quaker abolitionists risked their lives and the lives of their family and friends to aid those determined to flee slavery and live in freedom by travelling to Canada. Anna and her father are particularly drawn to a young slave woman who has just given birth to her master's son and risk their very livelihood to secure her travel northward. When the handsome young newspaper editor, Daniel Stanton, crosses paths with Anna, her guarded world experiences upheaval; and her entire future is jeopardized when Daniel appears to be unraveling her secrets.

This story is beautifully written and full of historical drama that makes one admire the bravery of the "plain friends" in Liberty, Indiana.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another novel my Mom gave to me. It is also faith based. This one tells of a young woman and her father who aid slaves who are fleeing their masters during the time of the Underground Railroad. The story is suspenseful and keeps the reader engaged as the trials of those protecting the runaway slaves are presented. And as is customary in these faith based novels, there is a little love story that comes about. Quick and enjoyable read, recommended to anyone who enjoys faith based novels.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Legacy of Love

Melanie Dobson spun a tale about the Underground Railroad that was very satisfying. Her excitement in researching this topic is evident. The book was able to convey the plight of the slaves without belaboring the subject. Make no mistake, this book is about love, all kinds of love, and the courage of the people who aided slaves in escaping to freedom.
I thankfully received this book as a giveaway from Goodreads. Thank you to them and to the author.

[Jerry (Rebel With a Massive Media Library) · Rating 3 out of 5]

The "love story" this book's title suggests takes a back seat to historical drama and even a bit of suspense. It's a great novel nonetheless, but anyone who picks up Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana expecting a lovey-dovey romance is going to be in for a big surprise.

[Amanda Shulman · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't even know why I bothered finishing this garbage book. Ugh!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Anna Brent and her father are station masters on a stop of the Underground Railroad in Indiana, which is a free state. However, feelings of slavery and abolition are divided in their small town, the same as it is around the country. And feelings are also divided in the Quaker community. Some feel it is wrong to help slaves escape as they are their master’s property, and it is akin to stealing. Others who are against abolition are more worried about the economy and the impact freeing slaves will mean to the country. Abolitionists however don’t understand how anyone can think it is okay to own another human being. They see all to be equal in the eyes of God. There are those who are outspoken, like Daniel Stanton, the newspaper editor. And there are those who hide their true feelings as they help actually in the transport and hiding of runaway slaves.
The story is told mainly from Anna and Daniel’s points of view, along with Marie, one of the runaway slaves who found her way to Anna’s home. We see them struggle with knowing who to trust. And then things become more precarious as the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 is passed.
There is a lot of suspense and tension in this story as the reader wonders if Anna and her father will be found out, if the runaways will be discovered, and if even free black friends may get stolen back south due to the slave hunters’ lust for money and the slave owner’s rage at having slaves run away.
And then there is a bit of a love story as Anna and Daniel, both of whom have decided they should remain single, learn more about each other.
I read this book because I needed a story that includes the underground railroad for one of my reading challenges. And now I want to read more books by Melanie Dobson (this was my first of hers) and more about the Underground Railroad. Definitely a book I recommend.

[Jennifer Lara · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Runaway is the second book in the Legacy of Love series by Melanie Dobson. In 1850, as the Fugitive Slave Act is about to be signed in law, Anna Brent is a Quaker woman in Indiana who secretly hides runaway slaves in her home. Just one station in the network known as the Underground Railroad. Her work requires the utmost secrecy with code names and unique signals to identify each other. Daniel Stanton is a local newspaper editor who doesn’t shy away from his abolitionist views. When Anna’s work with the Railroad is threatened, can she trust Daniel to help ensure the safety of the slaves she cares so much for? Will Daniel be able to put his words into action?
The Legacy of Love is a series of historical romance novels based on courageous people and significant events that wove together the rich tapestry of America's freedom and faith. The Runaway is a great look into a piece of history that we learn about in school but often leaves out the personal stories. Ms. Dobson offers a personal portrait of these faceless, unsung heroes of history. She doesn’t shy away from the horrors and dangers these individuals faced along the Railroad. I enjoyed Anna. As I read, I asked myself would I have the same courage to do what Anna does for her fellow man? I highly recommend The Runaway as well as the other books in the Legacy of Love series.

The Runaway is available in paperback and eBook.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always loved stories of the Underground Railroad, ever since I was a little girl and was first introduced to it through radio drama. (Thank you, Adventures in Odyssey!) I have never been passionate or admittedly even cared much about history, but good stories are so compelling; they are what make history come alive. Melanie has created that here. It's evident she has put a ton of research into this, it's believable, and it's original.

As a book editor, I'm a harsh critic, and I don't often run across many faith-based historical romances that actually surprise me, that get me to sob, that don't wrap every sub-plot up in the unrealistic bow of a perfect, whimsical ending, and that cause me to reflect after the story is over. I appreciate how Melanie managed to do each of these things. I couldn't put the book down.

I also want to note that in the few books I've read so far from Melanie, I've greatly appreciated how she presents her lead female characters as being incredibly brave. I'm often frustrated with how "life happens to" female leads in other books, but Melanie's characters are quick-thinking, self-reliant, and oftentimes fearless.

In my opinion, the best books are the ones that manage to inspire, and Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana has done exactly that. I'm so glad I read this!

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful story!

I must admit, I put off reading this one for a very long time. I didn’t want to be annoyed by historical oopses even though I know Melanie Dobson usually has great historical attention to detail. I had no reason to worry, though—the historical context is very well done.

What took the story to the next level for me was all the subtext detail. I hadn’t really thought about how conductors would need to steer clear of outspoken abolitionists before, but it makes sense. Hence, while the good guys were secretly agreeing with Daniel’s stand, they couldn’t just come out and say it without risking notice that would endanger their stops and passengers. Thus, Daniel has a big hurdle to pass in order to get involved locally, because he’s noisy and noticeable. Then there was the heart-tugging and sweet subplot with Joseph and Esther, which was so detailed in just a few words and scenes.

Anna made an excellent MC and I loved how understated the romance is. This book would be suitable for any age.

[Bo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The story is not all "happy with perfect endings," but it was well-written, helping me to have a greater understanding of the Underground Railroad, as well as the Fugitive Slave Act. I applaud and admire those that stood for right, in spite of the peril to their own lives. I feel compassion and sorrow for those who were trapped in slavery, but rejoice for those that were freed. Melanie Dobson did a good job handling the subject matter. I was drawn in to the story, and there were a number of twists and turns.

The book centers around a Quaker family. While there is a "spiritual" aspect to the book, I didn't think there was a clear presentation of the Gospel.

While the title suggests a romance, the romance factor was quite low-key. So if you enjoy historical fiction, I encourage you to check out this book.

4 1/2 stars.

[Grace M-D · Rating 5 out of 5]

ALL are created equal

I love books with some history in them, so this series is a win for me. This is 1 of my favorite’s in history, I love hearing stories of people standing up for what they know God has for them to do, especially when it’s knowing we are ALL equal in His eyes! Some quotes that struck me: “If someone had a strong faith in God, how can they not believe these people should be free”, “it was a human choice, back in the garden, to obey God. With disobedience came disorder.”, “ someday it would all be reconciled. Evil would be punished and the good restored. In the meantime, she would use her pen to promote the good.” This last quote should inspire, we can all find what works best for us to promote the good.

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really, Really liked this book. Loved the way it was written!
Yeah there's a little romance, but that's not the focus of the story (that happens at the end). The main focus is on how one girl and her dad hide slaves...they are one of the stops in the Underground Railroad!
What sparked my interest to read this book, was the time it was written, during the Underground Railroad. Reading this reminded me of all the men and women who risked their lives to help bring those in slavery into freedom. They are the true heroes! To me, when I read stories (whether true or based on facts) like this, it's inspiring but yet helps me not to forget.

[Charline Romine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ben, the One Who Was Saved

This fictional, documentary, love story not only tell of the human events that occurred during this time of our American history but of a persecuted nation of black slaves. How unholy, ungodly people owners treated another race of human beings that are just like the white persons inside their flesh. I found myself holding my breath as the hunters neared their prey and cried if they were caught. Much crying but many hallelujahs.

Anna and her father were only one family of many that helped the runaway slaves. There were many “Daniels” that spoke out against slavery. Thank God for them.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of the first three Legacy of Love books, this has been the best. It’s quite intriguing from the beginning and Anna’s passion is evident and relatable. Your concern for her grows as she starts to get into more and more danger. The story with Daniel is interesting and not overwhelming which is nice. The fact that their passion and burden unites them is nice to see. The ending with their first kiss and his proposal seems rushed and unbelievable. It was disappointing after having spent the whole book curious about how it would happen. The story line involving the baby and Esther’s stillborn was predictable. It was clear what would happen rather early on.