When Scott Gandy opens the Gilded Cage Saloon in Proffitt, Kansas, the ladies of the Temperance Committee are not happy. Led by Agatha Downing, the committee visits each saloon, handing out pamphlets, carrying a petition, and praying for the souls of the inhabitants. Scott tires to charm the ladies. When that doesn't work, he tries to outsmart them by bringing in dancing girls to fill the seats at the saloon. Agatha and Scott may have their differences, but those take a backseat when they come to care for an orphaned child. Helping young Willie helps them build a friendship that overcomes the other obstacles in their relationship.
This story takes place as Kansas becomes the first state to vote in prohibition. LaVyrle Spencer has written a book with wonderful characters. Agatha could have been a hard, militant heroine that was hard to like, but she is written as an honest, decent woman who has her reasons for despising alcohol. She doesn't judge others, including the dancing girls that move into the saloon next door to her hat shop. She may not agree with them but she doesn't look down on them. Scott Gandy is my kind of hero. He is trying to make a living for himself and his employees (who he calls family). He feels responsible for everyone and is worried that prohibition will put them out of business. He treats Agatha as a lady, but also as an equal in their business relationships. They both bring out the best in each other as they become friends.
This book was not a fast-moving, intense story. It sometimes plods along a little too slow for me. There was one point where they were separated that felt like it went on forever. But overall I enjoyed the story and loved the characters. My rating: 4 Stars.
This story takes place as Kansas becomes the first state to vote in prohibition. LaVyrle Spencer has written a book with wonderful characters. Agatha could have been a hard, militant heroine that was hard to like, but she is written as an honest, decent woman who has her reasons for despising alcohol. She doesn't judge others, including the dancing girls that move into the saloon next door to her hat shop. She may not agree with them but she doesn't look down on them. Scott Gandy is my kind of hero. He is trying to make a living for himself and his employees (who he calls family). He feels responsible for everyone and is worried that prohibition will put them out of business. He treats Agatha as a lady, but also as an equal in their business relationships. They both bring out the best in each other as they become friends.
This book was not a fast-moving, intense story. It sometimes plods along a little too slow for me. There was one point where they were separated that felt like it went on forever. But overall I enjoyed the story and loved the characters. My rating: 4 Stars.
Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details
