A Love Restored by Kelly J. Goshorn

Synopsis:

With pert opinions and a less-than-perfect figure, Ruth Ann Sutton doesn’t measure up to Society’s vision of a perfect lady. When she accepts a position teaching in a Freedman’s School, it threatens the only marriage offer Ruth Ann is likely to receive. She’s forced to choose between life as a lonely spinster or reinventing herself to secure a respectable proposal.

Determined to rise above his meager beginnings, Benjamin Coulter’s reputation as a fast learner and hard worker earns him the opportunity to apprentice with a surveyor for the railroad—a position that will garner the respect he craves. After a chance encounter with Ruth Ann Sutton, Benjamin is smitten with her pretty face, quick wit, and feisty personality. When others ridicule his choice, will Benjamin listen to his heart or put ambition first?

My Thoughts:

I knew the moment I read the synopsis that I’d enjoy this story, what I didn’t expect is all the emotions I’d feel as I read the story! Kelly Goshorn has written a phenomenal story, one that not only drew me into the lives of the characters but a story that touched my heart and has lingered with me long after I close the page.

Ruth Ann is spunky, determined, and broken. She has a big heart for others, especially her students at the Freedman’s School.  But, like so many of us, she carries with her a heavy baggage of words that were careless tossed her direction. Sometimes it is easier to believe the negative messages people tell you than the positive messages. For some reason, those negative messages seem a lot stickier.

What to say about Benjamin Coulter? I went from loving him to wanting to smack him upside the head, to feeling for him, and his personal struggle, and cheering for him and hoping for the best outcome. He is quite the hero. He will wrap himself around your heart for sure! Benjamin has his flaws and tends to have to learn his lessons the hard way. His love for Ruth Ann is endearing, heartbreaking and profound.

I saw myself in each of these characters and was reminded of several important truths. It is infinitely important that we choose to listen to God’s voice and to know who we are in Him. It is just as important that we don’t allow our perception of beauty to be dictated by others. I was also reminded of how easy it is to fall into the trap of wanting to please other people, and seek their admiration and respect when our focus should really be on pleasing God and seeking His approval.

This is a story that you don’t want to miss! I give this book 5 enthusiastic stars and would encourage you to pick up a copy to enjoy for yourself today!

(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)

Favorite Quote:

About the Author:

  Kelly Goshorn weaves her affinity for history and her passion for God into uplifting stories of love, faith and family set in nineteenth century America. Kelly earned a B.A. in Social Studies Education from Messiah College and a M.Ed. in History Education from The Pennsylvania State University. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America.

Kelly has been enjoying her own happily-ever-after with her husband and best friend, Mike, for 28 years. Together they have raised three children, four cats, two dogs, a turtle, a guinea pig, a gecko, and countless hamsters. Thankfully, not all at the same time. When she is not writing, Kelly enjoys spending time with her young adult children, scrapbooking with friends, board gaming with her husband, and spoiling her Welsh corgi, Levi.

Web Page // Goodreads // Facebook // Twitter // Pinterest // Instagram //

Pick-up your copy today!

 A Love Restored