To Whisper Her Name...Review

About the book:
Olivia Aberdeen, destitute widow of a murdered carpetbagger, gratefully accepts an invitation from “Aunt” Elizabeth Harding, mistress of Belle Meade Plantation and the dearest friend of Olivia’s late mother. Expecting to be the Harding’s housekeeper, Olivia is disillusioned once again when she learns the real reason why Elizabeth’s husband, Confederate General William Giles Harding, agreed to her coming.

Caring for an ill Aunt Elizabeth, Olivia is caught off guard by her feelings for Ridley Adam Cooper, a southern-born son who—unbeknownst to her and everyone else—fought for the Union. Determined to learn “the gift” that Belle Meade’s head horse trainer, Bob Green, possesses, Ridley is a man desperate to end the war still raging inside him while harboring secrets that threaten his life. As Ridley seeks to make peace within himself for “betraying” the South he loved, Olivia is determined to never be betrayed again…

Set within the remarkable history of Nashville’s historic Belle Meade Plantation, comes a story about enslavement and freedom, arrogance and humility, and the power of love to heal even the deepest of wounds.

Choosing a book by its cover isn't always the best way to find good novels, but To Whisper Her Name is as terrific as its cover is gorgeous.  I love Nashville and I love reading about historical Nashville.

Post Civil-War, Olivia Aberdeen's husband was an abusive liar and cheat and after his murder at the hands of disgruntled citizens of Nashville, she is an outcast as people refuse to believe that she was innocent of her husband's business dealings.  Her aunt, mistress of the Belle Meade Plantation and Thoroughbred Farm invites her to live at Belle Meade.

As her aunt's companion, Olivia feels out of place, but soon finds friendship among the Belle Meade employees, most of whom were former slaves. As she searches for a purpose to her life, she befriends Ridley Cooper, a southern man who fought for the North and who arrives at Belle Meade wanting to become a horse trainer and desiring to be trained by Belle Meade's head hostler.  Knowing he will be branded a traitor for fighting with the North, Ridley strives to keep his past secret.  As Ridley and Olivia get to know one another, the discover unknown strength, friendship and faith in God.

These were fantastic characters and a compelling story set against a brilliant historical backdrop.  Well written with ups and downs and love, laughter and tears, this was one novel that I did not want to see end.

Thanks to Zondervan for the opportunity to review this book.  You can learn more about Tamera Alexander here. You can purchase your own copy here.

Read 2/13
* * * * *
5/5 Stars

Comments

  1. My review partner, Sandra, read and loved this one. I have a copy but have yet to read it.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I just finished a book about the North and South, and would love to explore this one. It sounds really rich in drama and intrigue. Thanks for the lovely review, and for adding another book to my wishlist!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Wow, this sounds like a great setting and storyline.

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment