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It’s not unusual when reading a novel for the author to create characters you’ll fall in love with that you hate to see it end. In this case I am thrilled because not only has Ms. Gist written just that, but she is planning a sequel and one can only hope she writes fast! Essie Spreckelmeyer has got to be one of the more intriguing and lovable characters I’ve met this year. In 1894 and reaching the age of 30 years old Essie has made up her mind that the Lord has more important things to do than bring her a husband. So Essie must go out and capture one herself. After studying the pros and cons of all the eligible bachelors in Corsicana, Texas, she’s ready to begin her campaign; unfortunately Essie is an original who marches to the beat of a different drummer. Essie rides her bike Peg (short for Pegasus), slides down banisters, and catches snakes. It’s not just anybody who is going to appreciate Essie’s joy and zest for life but someone very special! Form the very first pages the reader will find this one hard to set down. Essie is — in a word – spectacular! She is funny, compassionate, caring, and the more you read of her miss-adventures, the more you will love her! In deciding to find a husband she forges full speed ahead. Essie doesn’t let anything slow her down once she’s got her target in sight and though she may stumble once or twice her faith is unshakable especially when after making a huge error in judgment she learns not only the true meaning of forgiveness but that the Lord just might have a better future in store for her if she just places her trust in Him. Peppering this story with a plethora of endearing secondary characters, from Essie’s Uncle Melvin and the young orphan Harley, to name a few, you’ll be totally charmed with some laugh out loud scenarios, and shed tears of compassion as well when life’s journey hits a few bumps in the road. I was most impressed with this newer author’s previous novels A BRIDE MOST BEGRUDGING and THE MEASURE OF A LADY. But with this latest book positively sparkling with vitality and uplifting entertainment, I can emphatically state Gist has won me over completely. Write fast lady, I can’t wait for the promised sequel! Marilyn Rondeau – Reviewers International Organization (RIO) |
Courting Trouble
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