Beyond Ivy Walls by Rachel Fordham transports readers to small Iowa town in 1903 with a plot partially inspired by Beauty and the Beast. Rather than feature an amazing library, the story uses piano music and roller skating as connecting points for the hero and heroine.
As the oldest daughter, Sadie must leave the family farm and seek employment after her father is severely injured. She's hired at a feather duster factory in Monticello, Iowa, but lodging is a challenge. While staying in an abandoned building, she's discovered by its owner and his response surprises her with its generosity.
The Taylor family is a pillar of the Monticello community, but son Otis was sent away as a child and recently only returned after the death of his father and brother. As is slowly revealed, he has reasons for leading a solitary life and wants no one in town to know he's temporarily back. When he finds Sadie on his property, his life begins to change in ways he never could have imagined.
This is a sweet story that's a quick read. I anticipated where the plot was going but still enjoyed the journey. Themes include forgiveness, sacrificial love, and valuing character over physical appearance. The author is a strong advocate for foster care and incorporated it into the novel. I love reading books set in the Midwest, but this didn't have a strong sense of place.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson for the review copy of this novel; all opinions are my own.
As the oldest daughter, Sadie must leave the family farm and seek employment after her father is severely injured. She's hired at a feather duster factory in Monticello, Iowa, but lodging is a challenge. While staying in an abandoned building, she's discovered by its owner and his response surprises her with its generosity.
The Taylor family is a pillar of the Monticello community, but son Otis was sent away as a child and recently only returned after the death of his father and brother. As is slowly revealed, he has reasons for leading a solitary life and wants no one in town to know he's temporarily back. When he finds Sadie on his property, his life begins to change in ways he never could have imagined.
This is a sweet story that's a quick read. I anticipated where the plot was going but still enjoyed the journey. Themes include forgiveness, sacrificial love, and valuing character over physical appearance. The author is a strong advocate for foster care and incorporated it into the novel. I love reading books set in the Midwest, but this didn't have a strong sense of place.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson for the review copy of this novel; all opinions are my own.
