MY REVIEW:
I am always pleased when I get the chance to check out a new author so I quickly requested a copy of Fairer Than Morning when it was offered by BookSneeze. I am so glad I did – now I have another author to add to my ‘watch’ list.
Fairer Than Morning takes place in the early nineteenth century, primarily in Pittsburgh and Ohio. Although it is a historical romance, the book is also filled with plenty of drama, suspense, mystery, and action to keep those pages turning. Interesting facts about the workings of the Underground Railroad, life in Pittsburgh and on an Ohio farm during that era, and life as an indentured man under a cruel master are woven seamlessly into the story. The fact that Fairer Than Morning is based on actual historical characters adds to the realism of the tale.
Although Ann Miller is pursued by two suitable young men, one of whom she is certain she will eventually marry, she finds herself curiously drawn to the entirely unsuitable Will Hanby. Although there are numerous hints as to the eventual conclusion, there are multiple roadblocks along the way. Will Ann and Eli ever get back together or will she fall for Allan’s charms? What about Will – can he ever escape his harsh and abusive master Jacob Good or is he doomed to a life of hopelessness?
A story that promotes character and forgiveness, Fairer Than Morning is a not to be missed novel. I look forward to Sweeter Than Birdsong, the next installment of The Saddler’s Legacy by Rosslyn Elliott.
This book was provided for review by BookSneeze.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Ann dreams of a marriage proposal from her poetic suitor—until she meets a runaway apprentice who knows what a truly noble man is.
In 1826, Ann Miller travels to Pittsburgh with her widowed father and two young sisters, only to find that a mysterious man has pursued them all the way from Ohio. Is Ann’s father just a circuit minister, or is he hiding something that may endanger them all?
Will Hanby indentures with a Pittsburgh saddler maker, only to discover that his master is a cold-hearted tyrant. After years of abuse, Will becomes a prisoner of his own mind. But then lovely Ann Miller comes to stay next door and her compassion lights a long-dark part of Will’s soul. His renewed courage puts his life in jeopardy as he begins to assist fugitive slaves.
Will’s murderous master and Ann’s questions about her family may keep both of them bound in the shadows forever. Or will they find freedom—together?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR (from her website):
As the child of a career military man, I lived in four states and two foreign countries before I graduated from high school. I attended nine schools during that time. My frequent relocation into new social scenes encouraged me to become a close observer of other people, for my own survival.
With the help of some excellent teachers, I bootstrapped my way into Yale University, where I earned my BA in English and Theater Studies. Vowing never to return to school, I spent five years working first in corporate New York City, then as a schoolteacher. School started to look pretty good again. I entered the Ph.D. program in English at Emory University and finished my dissertation in 2006.
My study of American literature spurred me to pursue my lifelong dream of writing fiction.
I’ve always loved history, and because of my dissertation research, it was natural for me to start by setting my novels in nineteenth-century America.
I’m the homeschooling mom of a second-grader, and wife to a creative and talented salesman.
Learn more about Rosslyn and her books on her website.
