Book description from Book Bub:
“After her beloved grandfather’s death, Emmaline Moore is shocked to discover that her “deceased” father is actually living in Canada. Having no other family, Emma decides she must find him, and so embarks on a journey across the ocean, accompanied by her best friend, Jonathan. Unfortunately, Randall Moore and his well-to-do family aren’t thrilled by her arrival, fearing her sudden appearance will hinder his chance at becoming mayor of Toronto in 1919. Despite everything, Emma remains determined to earn their affection.
Jonathan Rowe has secretly loved Emma for years and hopes that during their trip he can win her heart. Concerned that Randall might reject her, Jonathan is ready to console Emma and bring her home. When she informs him that she has no intention of returning to England, Jonathan begins to despair. Can he convince Emma to find value within herself rather than seeking it from a virtual stranger? And will she ever come to see that Jonathan is her true home?”
My Review:
Susan Anne Mason has given us an entertaining and heart-tugging Christian historical novel. The year is 1919 and the setting is in the city of Toronto, Canada. I enjoyed the historical details that the author used all throughout the story, especially when she described the ladies’ dresses for different occasions. I also loved the fact that this book was based in part on facts from the life of the author’s grandmother.
This story is character-driven and the two main characters, Emma and Jonathan, have very different personalities. Emma is impulsive; has strong opinions on how things should be done and is always full-steam-ahead in carrying out her plans. Jonathan is more thoughtful; thinks things through; and listens to the counsel of others. There were times that I would have loved to made Emma sit down and not get up until she really listened and thought through the advice Jonathan was trying to give her. On the other hand, I wanted Jonathan to step up and take charge at times. This was part of the fun of the plot, and their personalities kept my interest through the book.
The heart-tugging aspect comes from the hurts that both Emma and Jonathan suffered in their young lives. Both were orphans raised by caring relatives. Jonathan had just returned home from the war and was suffering flashbacks to times of battle. Emma was thrilled to discover her father was alive, but suffered from his decision to not acknowledge her as his daughter. Emma and Jonathan struggled as they transitioned from best friends to romantic interest. The author does a great job of incorporating all of this in their stories and it gives the story its heart.
This is the second book of a series, but the previous characters are only briefly mentioned, so this book is very easily read as a stand-alone story.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed Emma and Johnathan too!! I so wanted to make them wake up and smell the roses! I too wanted to make those two listen to what the other was saying! You hit it right on the nail!!