As you know from past book reviews, I enjoy Christian historical fiction. With Autumn’s Return by Amanda Cabot is one of those books. I wanted to read it because I have read the first two books in the Westward Winds series (Book 1 and Book 2). This book was about Elizabeth Harding, the youngest sister in the Harding family.
Elizabeth Harding is a female doctor in Cheyenne, Wyoming during the 1800’s. I appreciated her fortitude to do what she felt called to do despite the disapproval of many. Women doctors were not popular or accepted easily in that time in history. Dr. Harding’s fortitude is something I could use a good dose of on my bad days! Ha! I also related to her struggle as a working woman and her fears and concerns over having a family with her chosen profession. She had working mom guilt before she was even a mother, but I think many of us must struggle with this when we choose to work or are forced to because of circumstances out of our control.
Dr. Harding showed godly character when she chose to treat the ladies of one of the local brothels. She treated them with respect and dignity despite their profession. I think this is something lacking in today’s Christianity. As Christians or followers of Christ, we are called to love, yet there’s still so much hatred in the world against those who may be different from us and that’s not just outside the church it is within it as well.
I enjoyed the friendship between her and Jason. I think friendship should be the basis of any romantic interest and like it when it’s portrayed in that light.
The book wasn’t all a bed of roses. Mystery, murder and deceit were woven into the plot to spice up the book and make it more than just a romance novel. Don’t get me wrong it was not a mystery novel but it definitely those elements made it more than just another boring romance.
Was the book predictable? Admittedly, yes. Was it interesting? I’d have to say so since I like reading about that time period. Was it one of my favorite books to read? No, not really, but I enjoyed it and give it a thumbs up.
Your reviews are always so compelling, that I’m drawn to grab whatever it is you’re reading, despite not reading a lot of historical religious fiction myself, and read it. I especially like that these books are something I can eventually give to Gaby – probably already despite the fact that she’s only 8 (she reads at an 8th grade level) and feel confident about. I’m in the middle of “The Calling” – thanks to your review, and will give it to Gaby when I’m done.
And ya know, even if a book is predictable, the way it’s written and how the story is told can make that a pretty small thing when it comes down to it! I’ll add, “With Autumn’s Return” to my list of books to read!
You’re going to get me back into reading, aren’t you? I love Christian fiction, too, and I really like an easy predictable read. Thanks for the review!
I am like you, I enjoy reading about this time period. I’ll have to give this a try
Oh the simpler times!
I love reading stories about the 1800.
Some days I am convinced I was born in the wrong century. LOL.
Great review!
I know what I am going to read next!
This books sounds inspiring. I agree with you regarding, unchristian-like behavior towards those different then they are.
Sounds interesting!
I love reading historical books and this one especially sounds interesting since she is a doctor!
I sure wouldn’t want to wear those getups every day, but for one it would be cool.
I’m seriously loving these book reviews. It makes me want to go to the library to find something to read. Now I just need to find the time.
I like that they wove all kinds of elements into it to make it more interesting. Sounds like a good one!
I actually prefer predictable and enjoyable in my reading material these days!
Sounds like a very inspirational read. Will have to check it out. Thank you!
I also love historical fiction! They are so fun to read.
This sounds fantastic. I love getting lost in a good book.
I love to read. I have a stack of books waiting for me. I need to find more time to just spend on myself and read a little.
Sounds like a good read!
I love most books from different time periods. It’s so fun to let a story take you not just to a different place but a different time as well.
I think that is the problem w/ romance novels..the predictability, you know?
I haven’t picked up a romance novel in over 20 years. This made me want to. Thanks!
Sounds like an interesting book. I enjoy reading stories from different time eras.