This book captured my heart! Oh my goodness, I couldn't put it down once I began reading. I stayed up through the night to finish it! So many twists and turns. Just when you think your at the best part, it gets even better! Even though this book is considered a historical fiction read, I would classify it as a suspenseful romance! The characters are rich and I found myself so drawn to Adelaide. This book is set in present day, but takes us back to the Civil War period. Oh, the letters written by Susannah Page were captivating. The detail that Susan Meissner brings to this story makes you feel as though you are there within the walls of this glorious house that holds such history for all and superstition for some. In this novel, Marielle Bishop, marries into a family that carries secrets. The man she marries is widowed and although he isn't in love with his dead wife, he is in love with her memory and the house they are living in is holding the hearts of those who live there captive. Marielle is an instant mother to two children. She moves away from all she knows for love. As she begins to form a close relationship with, Adelaide, it isn't long before the sound of the past begins to haunt her.
We see how the past can have a strong hold on us. A past that we must face in order to move into the future. We cannot grasp the blessings of today if we are still holding on to what if and maybe. I loved this story. It wasn't about a ghost per say, it was about the ghosts of our pasts and how they can haunt us. We all seem to carry them. Before we can really enjoy life as it is, but must let go of what isn't. This is a rich story about redemption, forgiveness and hope.
This book was a gift from WaterBrook Press for it's review.
Award-winning writer Susan Meissner is a multi-published author, speaker and workshop leader with a background in community journalism. Her novels include The Shape of Mercy, named by Publishers Weekly as one of the Best Books of 2008. She is a pastor’s wife and a mother of four. When she's not writing, Susan directs the Small Groups and Connection Ministries program at her San Diego church.You can check out other books by Susan Meissner. The Shape of Mercy, Lady in Waiting, and White Picked Fences are three that I have read and enjoyed immensely!
