Recommendation for "The Shadow on the Quilt"
When I finished reading "The Shadow on the Quilt" by Stephanie Grace Whitson, I simply had to write a review of the book immediately.
Even though this book is set in the 19th century, some of the difficulties, decisions and emotional crisis this widow faces could easily take place in any time period. The desire to erase the bad decisions of the deceased and protect the lives of their loved ones is easy to understand. I even found myself wishing I could protect Juliana, the widow, from the knowledge of her late husband's deceptions.
But, that is only the beginning of this book. You, too, will want walk this path with Juliana and rejoice as she finds acceptance, contentment and happiness once again.
A Quick Synopsis of the Book
Written by Cynthia SylvestermouseTHE SHADOW ON THE QUILT (The Quilt Chronicles)Juliana's husband was a prominent and respected member of their small town community. When the local brothel burned to the ground, he was one of the victims of the fire. The official press story touted him as a hero, stating that he had entered the establishment to help save lives, but there were those who knew the truth.
Cass is the foreman overseeing the construction of the couples mansion and was there when Juliana's husbands body was pulled from the ashes of the brothel. As an employee, he had also known of the mans infidelity prior to that night and berated himself for never having confronted the man. Of course, he feared losing his job.
When Juliana is devastated by the death of her husband and by the discovery of his deceptions, Cass has to balance friendship, honestly, and compassion.
This story definitely has a romantic appeal, but I would have to say that Julianna's strength through her bereavement, betrayal and the scandal was what truly give the book backbone and made it worth reading.
More About the Book and the Book Genre
"Shadow on the Quilt" is actually the second book in "The Quilt Chronicles" series. Although it is not necessary, you may wish to read the first book in the series, The Key on the Quilt.
This book is a Christian historical fiction. It appeals to my interest in history, although I am far from a history buff. I also prefer reading this particular genre because I never have to worry about the language, the descriptions or the story becoming too crude, frightening or violent. Plus, romance is just that; romance, not eroticism.
About the Author of "The Shadow on the Quilt",
Stephanie Grace Whitson
Shephanie Grace Whitson is a best-selling author and two time Christy finalist. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in French with a minor in English and music.
By her own admission, Stephanie enjoyed writing reports and research papers in school, but never expected to be a novelist. While home-schooling her children, she found she needed a "creative" way to teach her children history. They visited a small, pioneer cemetery where they began to discover what life was like for the people buried there. Her first character was born and was introduced to the world in her first published book, "Walks the Fire" in 1995.
Quote directly from Stephanie Grace White: "Hindsight has shown me why that happened. God was providing a career for a woman who was going to have to support her family as a widow beginning in 2001."
Good review! This sounds like a book I'd enjoy reading. I, too, enjoy Christian fiction where the reader doesn't have to worry about language and more details than necessary on the romance end of the story. Pinned and tweeted!
ReplyDeleteThe appeal of a book is in allowing the reader to be romanced by just enough details that her imagination can fill in the rest. Sounds like this is that kind of novel. Even more telling to me is the fact that you wanted to read it again.
ReplyDeleteWow, I was quite taken with that quote by the author - writing about characters who are widowed prior to herself becoming a widow. Hindsight, indeed. Interesting review of the book, but VERY interesting background on the author. Thanks for including that.
ReplyDeleteWell, this is getting pinned to my 'books my mom would like' -- I'll remember the title and series as a gift for her - great review Cynthia, this one has certainly peaked my own interest as well!
ReplyDeleteI love historical fiction books and now that I have read your review, I can tell it is something that I would enjoy reading. Having experienced widowhood, myself, I think I would find it interesting to see how Juliana deals with her circumstances, too. Great review!
ReplyDeleteCynthia You know I love historical fiction and I always like the ones you suggest. Thanks for the review...I'll put it on my to read list.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure I would love this book after reading this review. It's easier for me to identify with the characters in Christian fiction than in most secular fiction, and I also know I won't have to wade through scenes I'd rather not be part of.
ReplyDelete