Oh what a beautiful story this was! I could truly feel both Ruth Ann and Benjamin’s uncertainty in several situations throughout the book as they each grappled with perceptions, hurts, anxieties, and much more.
These characters felt so real to me. At times, they would be strong and confident in their decision making and then something would set them back and they would start to doubt. There was a lot of back and forth in Ben and Ruthie’s relationship, much to be overcome, and a lot of spiritual growth that had to occur.
I came close to tears a few times in this novel as I experienced Ruth Ann’s heartache regarding lost love and a feeling of hopelessness about being heavier than other women.
I loved Ruth Ann’s heart for helping teach the freed slaves in her town. She was a smart, strong, and caring woman. I found this thread of the story very interesting as events played out in the novel.
(5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
ABOUT THIS BOOK:
With pert opinions and a less-than-perfect figure, Ruth Ann Sutton doesn’t measure up to Society’s vision of a perfect lady. When she accepts a position teaching in a Freedman’s School, it threatens the only marriage offer Ruth Ann is likely to receive. She’s forced to choose between life as a lonely spinster or reinventing herself to secure a respectable proposal.
Determined to rise above his meager beginnings, Benjamin Coulter’s reputation as a fast learner and hard worker earns him the opportunity to apprentice with a surveyor for the railroad—a position that will garner the respect he craves. After a chance encounter with Ruth Ann Sutton, Benjamin is smitten with her pretty face, quick wit, and feisty personality. When others ridicule his choice, will Benjamin listen to his heart or put ambition first?
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kelly Goshorn weaves her affinity for history and her passion for God into uplifting stories of love, faith and family set in nineteenth century America. Kelly earned a B.A. in Social Studies Education from Messiah College and a M.Ed. in History Education from The Pennsylvania State University. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America.
Kelly has been enjoying her own happily-ever-after with her husband and best friend, Mike, for 28 years. Together they have raised three children, four cats, two dogs, a turtle, a guinea pig, a gecko, and countless hamsters. Thankfully, not all at the same time. When she is not writing, Kelly enjoys spending time with her young adult children, scrapbooking with friends, board gaming with her husband, and spoiling her Welsh corgi, Levi.
Britt Reads Fiction 
I Absolutely loved this book.
Thanks Lucy! I appreciate your kind words and thanks for commenting!
Well written review. And I agree. The story addressed hard issues with great care and authenticity. May it bring healing and hope to readers who struggle to see themselves through the eyes of the Lord.
Hi Mary, Thank you. That is my true hope – that readers will rethink the way they speak to themselves and they way they view themselves, casting off those things that are not of God. Its hard work and took me a very long time to achieve. Though I still struggle at times, I recognize that voice that wants to speaks lies into me and I know its not true. It’s truly liberating.
Brit, thank you for the lovely review. I’m so glad Benjamin and Ruth Ann’s story resonated with you.