MY REVIEW:

I am always on the lookout for books by new authors so I was glad for the chance to read Spring for Susannah, Catherine Richmond’s very first published novel. A historical romance set in Dakota territory, the story chronicles the experiences of a mail order bride and her new husband as they attempt to build a life together in their little sod home.

Both Susannah and Jesse had preconceived ideas about what their marriage would be but their expectations were slow to be realized. Jesse had looked forward to a wife who would be a companion to take away some of the loneliness of the long Dakota winters. What he got was a shy silent one who seemed to be afraid of him. Susannah had difficulty believing that anyone could possibly care for her and lived in fear that Jesse would send her away. As time passed, the couple grew to know each other better and love blossomed between them but they each had insecurities that prevented them from recognizing it. One disaster after another tested their endurance and their faith.

Spring for Susannah was a delight. Richmond’s characters were well developed and I cared about what happened to them. I could imagine myself there with them as I read the vivid descriptions of  settings and events. Intimate moments between Susannah and Jesse were natural and tasteful. A spiritual message was woven naturally and unobtrusively throughout.

I look forward to future novels from Catherine Richmond and would recommend Spring for Susannah to all who enjoy Christian historical fiction.

This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Booklist says, “Inspired by [folk] lyrics, Richmond arrives on the inspirational fiction scene with a moving debut novel. Readers will be filled with hope that Susannah will learn the true meaning of love. Highly recommended where inspiring, romantic historical fiction is in demand.”

Hundreds of miles from home, Susannah faces an uncertain future as a mail-order bride on the untamed Dakota prairie.

When her parents die suddenly, and no suitors call, Susannah resigns herself to the only option available: becoming a mail-order bride. Agreeing to marry her pastor’s brother, Jesse, Susannah leaves the only home she’s ever known for the untamed frontier of the Dakota Territory.

Her new husband is more loving and patient with her than she believes she deserves. Still, there is also a wildness to him that mirrors the wilderness surrounding them. And Susannah finds herself constantly on edge. But Jesse’s confidence in her-and his faith in God’s perfect plan-slowly begin to chip away at the wall she hides behind.

When she miscarries in the brutal Dakota winter, Susannah’s fledgling faith in herself and in God begins to crumble. Still, Jesse’s love is unwavering. Just when it seems like winter will never end, Susannah finally sees the first tentative evidence of spring. And with it, the realization that more than the landscape has changed.

She looks to the future with a renewed heart. Yet in her wildest dreams, she couldn’t predict all that awaits her.

Purchase a copy of Spring for Susannah HERE.

See what other bloggers are saying about Spring for Susannah HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Catherine Richmond was focused on her career as an occupational therapist till a special song planted a story idea in her mind. That idea would ultimately become Spring for Susannah, her first novel. She is also a founder and moderator of Nebraska Novelist critique group and lives in Nebraska with her husband.

For more about Catherine, please visit www.catherinerichmond.com.