River to Redemption ~ Review

River to Redemption
By Ann H. Gabhart

Adria Starr lost everyone she cared about when a cholera epidemic hits Springfield, Kentucky in 1833. And Adria isn't alone in her losses most everyone also suffered a loss. Mrs. Ruth Harmon lost her husband Peter and the child she was hoping for. But through the care of Louis none where left untended as he made sure all the sick were nursed and the dead were buried. Louis's efforts came at a cost - he could have used the sickness as a chance to escape to freedom in the North.

But Louis was not like most as he followed the leading he felt that the Good Lord placed on his heart. And caring for Adria and finding her a place where she wouldn't be in a position of servitude for the rest of her childhood was of utmost importance to him.

As time passes Louis and Adria have a special connection - one that has Adria looking to take up the abolitionist fight. But being a woman her words and feelings carry little weight in the 1840s. When the possibility of Louis being sold arises Adria is determined that he get the freedom he deserves.

River to Redemption is a story that has many layers to it - the first layer is the cholera epidemic which is the catalyst which sets everything in motion. If not for the cholera Louis and Adria might never have met so that they would have a friendship. And then Adria and Ruth shared a bond that was also the result of the losses they both experienced. Adria provided the home and Ruth the care. As Adria deals with the expectations of society (marriage and family) versus the desires her heart (freedom and equality) she will discover who she truly is. I think this quote perfectly sums up Adria's dilemma "Yet, was it too much to hope for a man to accept you as you were instead of as he thought you should be?" 

What I like is that this book is based on true historical events - yes this is a fictionalized account but the characters are for the most part likable. They aren't perfect and struggle with disappointments and life in general. This isn't a fast paced book it has moments of meandering making it a perfect afternoon read when all you want to do is relax.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a review - all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:

One young woman must stand 

up for freedom--and perhaps find 

her own in the process.

Orphaned in the cholera epidemic of 1833, Adria Starr was cared for by a slave named Louis, a man who passed up the opportunity to escape his bondage and instead tended to the sick and buried the dead. A man who, twelve years later, is being sold by his owners despite his heroic actions. 

Now nineteen, Adria has never forgotten what Louis did for her. She's determined to find a way to buy Louis's freedom. But in 1840s Kentucky, she'll need all of the courage and strength she possesses--and more.