Kara G. reviewed on 4/12/2014 + 82 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 2

My Comments
What a DE-LIGHT-FUL book!! Goodness, this is my first time reading Alexanders work, but I sensed something SOOOOOO special about this story I couldnt pass it up..indeed, EVERY part of this book was wonderfully written and tangibly enjoyed from the FIRST page! I am NOT a fan of pink, but I couldnt stop looking at that BEAUTIFUL cover while reading and the story never failed to keep my attention through almost 500 pages. It was such an amazing read that I even forgot to take notes! Yes, this book is FILLED with excellent food and dishes, but mostly it appeals to the readers heart through Eleanor and the amazing character she is.

The book begins with Eleanor being a volunteer for the wounded during war in 1864 and this entire scene resonates with her in such a way that she remembers it throughout the story. She even makes a promise to one dying soldier and she doesnt give up the unlikelihood of fulfilling this promise no matter how many years it takes to do so. Most people wouldve given up after a few attempts, there was no one to keep her accountable and no one wouldve been the wiser about such a failed attempt. However, I believe this promise is one of many instances that strengthens Eleanors faith and even brings her much needed healing about love.

Eleanor must move in with her aunt later in the story after leaving her father and his ailing mind in an asylum; the scene is powerfully written and my heart ached EXACTLY as Eleanor did in leaving her precious Papa to the hands of the capable medical staff. My heart broke even as I read that part.

I do have to say regarding Aunt Adelicia that I was surprised at how welcoming her aunt is when Eleanor moves in. I really thought the aunt would be cordial, cold, and distant, but she is quite the opposite. Even with her own agenda to guide Eleanor with, this aunt really felt like a surrogate mom in so many ways. I didnt always agree with her methods/intentions, but I respected their relationship and believed that Adelicia was truly determined to see Eleanor entrusted in a solid arrangement. Though she was not my favorite character in the story, she did keep the plot interesting.

I have no interest in Botany or plant life, but I was taken in with Marcuss passion towards flowers and his brilliant ways of creating the perfect specimens. I didnt agree with keeping his secrets so tightly hidden, but I did understand his reasons. More than once he had my sympathies and I had no trouble falling for his character as the man for Eleanor. He really was Mr. Darcy to Eleanors Elizabeth! (I found Eleanor very similar to Elizabeth Bennett, especially in how she enjoyed walking so much) He understood everything about her heart and endeavored to give her whatever her heart desired, it became his mission throughout to make her smile. Sigh..

My heart melted over and over again at Eleanors cooking for the widows and the children. Oh my, this book is so utterly touching and honoring to fallen soldiers. With the incredible descriptions, the reader feels like youre THERE with these beautiful souls that Eleanor comes to love as her own family. Mr. Stover, Naomi and Caleb, Mr. Fitch (wow to those donuts), and even Nurse Smith who takes care of Theodore..I was amazed by the resilience of this community as they blessed Eleanor and made her dreams come true in a TOTALLY different way than she expected!

Without a doubt, Eleanor was my hero through and through! She is compassionate, diligent, fiercely independent, giving, has an amazing heart that would rival ANY royal, faithful, trustworthy, has an adorable sense of humor, utterly intelligent, hardworking, passionate for people and cooking, and always determined to do the right thing. I never ONCE saw her as plain or unappealing, she is so very tall and completely unconventional as a Southern woman, but that only made her MORE appealing and special! Seeing the world through her eyes in this novel moved me more than once and touched me more than I wouldve thought possible for a fictional character. This is my first read by Alexander, but Im convinced it wont be my last. I highly recommend this book even if historical fiction is not your typical genre, it will definitely win you over and leave you smiling. Every single part of the plot was addressed, each character got their individual conclusions, and the ending to this story leaves you feeling warm all over. Im thrilled I got the chance to review this and Im grateful for the love found in these pages. *also included are discussion questions and a note from the author describing historical facts in the book*

I want to thank the author and Bethany House Publishers for the review copy provided. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.

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