Book Description:
All Lydia wants is to travel the world before she has to settle down with a husband. But she may not have that choice anymore. April 1886. Debutante Lydia Jane Barrington lives a carefree, protected existence on Live Oaks Plantation in Florida. But while her sisters happily learn the traditional tasks of women and talk of courting, Lydia dreams of adventure and independence. Even her friendship with handsome Hamilton Scarbrough isn't enough to hold her back. Then one day Hamilton opens Lydia's eyes and her heart to love. But before they can receive permission to court, Lydia overhears a secret conversation about an unscrupulous business deal. Worse, it has everything to do with her and her future. Now she's faced with the biggest decision of her life-to concede or to fight. Either choice will require great sacrifice...and, perhaps, countless rewards. Passion. Friendship. A bitter enemy. A life-changing decision. Set in Victorian-era Florida.
My Thoughts: Having lived in Florida I was drawn to this book immediately! I could smell the orange blossoms and feel the sea breeze. Sherri did a great job bringing the Victorian era to life. I felt for Lydia! Her sisters are all about wanting to get married and live the life their mother has, she does not. She wants to do something important! Lydia's faith gets challenged because of the decision she makes and I found myself cheering and even misty eyed. This is a great book and I highly recommend it!
