Lillian Doyle, a perfectly poised southern belle, is forced to visit the Georgian countryside when she learns her past was not all her mother pretended it was. A family she’s never known lives in Dawsonville. A family that—as a secret illegitimate daughter—has never known her either. Lillian wants nothing more than to sell her father’s estate and rush back to the city, but when she gets a taste of fresh air and independence, will she be able to let go? If you enjoy historical fiction with some mystery, you may enjoy this novel by Stephenia McGee.

Ratings

Story: 4/5

Worldview: 2.5/5

I loved the atmosphere of the 1800s South. The setting deepened the gulf between the two protagonists, city-gal Lillian and cowboy Jonah Peterson—the stubborn man who stands at odds against her plans. The plot never faltered in balancing personal difficulties, family drama, romance, and mystery. I feel like I went on an unexpected journey with these characters, and I enjoyed the ride.

The Romance

This novel was heavier on romance, but nothing objectionable. There was a kissing scene that was a little spicy, but I think that was more me than anything else. Before I knew Jesus, I devoured spicy novels, and it was a gateway for me to get into more intense fiction. Having been saved from that addiction, I’m wary of lustful relationships in fiction. Of course, attraction is crucial, but I felt this novel toed the line a little.

Worldview

One of the overarching themes of this novel was how God can work out all things—even tragedies—for good. It was a solid message but I think it lacked exploration. Or, at least, I felt it lacked practical encouragement on how to search for God’s will for your life. The message was muddied, I think, by the emphasis of one character as a self-appointed prophet. God can absolutely speak His will to us in different ways… but to contrast this character’s pronouncements against God’s silence to prayers was weird. The other characters ignored the “prophet’s” ideas (for the most part), but it was a substantial plot point nonetheless.

Personally, I’m still trying to find God’s particular purpose for my life, but in the meantime, I just take it one day at a time and seek Him. Some days, I don’t really feel like reading or praying or going to church, but that’s when I focus on how much of a mess I’d be otherwise. Just because God isn’t answering right now doesn’t mean He’s slow. Just because I’m struggling doesn’t mean He isn’t moving. I just have to keep walking, keep listening, and He’ll take care of the rest.

In any case, this was an overall entertaining read. This is the first novel I picked up from McGee and I’d be tempted to go for another one. Overall: 3.25/5.

More Information

Author: Stephenia McGee

Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, Christian

Publish date: May 2, 2023

I received this eARC in exchange for an honest review. My thanks go to Netgalley and the publisher.