The Lady's Maid: A Book Review

I love stories with unusual heroines, so I was delighted when I received Susan Page Davis's book The Lady's Maid. Instead of using a rich, important woman of peerage as the main character, Ms. Davis highlights the maid, someone who society tended to ignore and on whom they place very little value at the time. Check out my review, but you'll want to pick up this wonderful novel so you can experience it for yourself.

The Lady’s Maid is a well-written story that explores themes of forgiveness, first impressions, and second chances. I loved that this book is not about the typical protagonist-the “lady,” but rather about the servant (Elise) who might otherwise be overlooked. I also liked that Elise is in her late 30’s, a mature character whom I am able to relate to. I cannot imagine the difficulties of crossing America in a covered wagon, yet Elise and her employer, Lady Anne had the gumption to try it. Eb and Rob are good men, rough-and-ready as trail leaders, yet sensitive enough to care for the women and children on the trip. The dialogue was realistic, and there were several “hair-raising” incidents that added depth to the journey. Messages of God’s love, acceptance, and salvation are subtly woven throughout the story without being preachy. (Please note: I received a copy of this book for free, and a positive review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own.)

Book Blurb:

Lady Ann Stone's uncle is the new Earl of Stoneford. The only problem is, he disappeared into America's West. With only her personal maid, Elise Finster, as determined chaperone, Anne embarks upon a quest to find David Stone. First stop, St. Louis, where the ladies discover their quarry went farther west five years ago. Resolute in their mission, Anne and Elise join a wagon train to Oregon. But will their prairie adventure turn into a Wild West nightmare?

Scout Eb Bentley, initially skeptical that the women can survive the journey, soon finds himself falling for the determined, charming, beautiful Elise. Can he keep her alive long enough to win her love? Or will he ladies succumb to the rigors, ruffians, and rustlers along the trail?

Purchase Link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XG1L7LF

Linda Shenton Matchett is an author, speaker, and history geek. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, she was born a stone's throw from Fort McHenry and has lived in historic places all her life. She is a member of ACFW, RWA, and Sisters in Crime. Linda is a volunteer docent for the Wright Museum of WWII and a trustee for her local public library. To learn more about Linda visit her website where you can sign up for her monthly newsletter or brows her books.