A Touching, Emotional Story
Please note: The hero of this novel, Ben Channey, has been in two of Cheryl St. John's previous books, THE DOCTOR'S WIFE and THE LAWMAN'S BRIDE. Reading them in order will add to your reading enjoyment.
Preacher Holdridge is a strict, unbending man. He held his wife and four children in his death-grip of obedience until his wife died. As soon as each child could escape, he and she did. Now it is Loribeth's turn to see what the world is about; although she worries about leaving the youngest, Simon, at home.
But Loribeth has a chance to live amongst a couple who genuinely love each other and their 4 (almost 5) young children as a mother's helper. She has already been helping Dr. Channey and Ellie for 2 years on a part-time basis, while still taking care of her home duties. Now, she has the chance to stay with them on a full-time basis and she jumps at the chance (although she gets 2 mornings off so she can continue to care for her home responsibilities). The Channey's think she is getting the time to spend on herself.
Ellie and her two brothers, Ben and Flynn come from a horrific home. Ellie and Flynn have some to a point where they have worked their way past their previous lives. Ben cannot. Although he is a veterinarian, Ben remains isolated and insulated from life. He enjoys being with his sister's children and Flynn, Ellie and his brother-in-law.
When he meets Loribeth, he is surprised by her kindness and gentle loveliness. Although Ben tries to evade her, he is drawn into her simplicity and generosity. They soon fall in love; Ben is able to set aside his ghosts with Loribeth's help. A lovely, well-written story.
Harvey Girls
1. The Doctor's Wife (1999)
2. The Tenderfoot Bride (2003)
3. The Lawman's Bride (2007)
The Preacher's Daughter
