Review of A Lady in Attendance by Rachel Fordham

 

About the Book ~

Five years in a New York state reformatory have left a blemish on Hazel's real name. So when she takes a job as Doctor Gilbert Watts's lady in attendance in 1898, she does so under an alias. In the presence of her quiet and pious employer, Hazel finds more than an income. She finds a friend and a hope that if she can set her tarnished past in order, she might have a future after all.

As Gilbert becomes accustomed to the pleasant chatter of his new dental assistant, he can't help but sense something secretive about her. Perhaps there is more to this woman than meets the eye. Can the questions that loom between them ever be answered? Or will the deeds of days gone by forever rob the future of its possibilities?

Rachel Fordham pens a tender tale of a soft-spoken man and a hardened woman, as well the friends who stand by them, as they work toward a common purpose--to expunge the record of someone society deemed beyond saving--and perhaps find love along the way.

For more information about Rachel Fordham and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

If you're looking for a story that will warm your heart with a sweet romance and deep truths, then A Lady in Attendance by Rachel Fordham will give you all the cozy vibes!

The setting of A Lady in Attendance immediately charmed me, largely because I related to Gilbert and Hazel on a vocational level as I was a dental assistant for a time. Seeing a field in which I worked portrayed in a historical era was great fun, being both whimsical and nostalgic! Additionally, the author really kept my attention not only with the unfolding romance but also with mystery, murder, suspense, and a surprising plot twist. While I don't love the particular trope found there, I thought the author showed skill in both the initial shock and resolution surrounding that plot twist.

Gilbert was a sweet, steadfast hero who found himself becoming bolder and braver throughout the story, subtly showing how your God-given spouse can and should influence you for the better. Hazel's past sins, mistakes, and the injustices inflicted on her opened her eyes to forgiveness -- for everyone but herself! She truly struggled with forgiving herself, so her journey to accepting that the past didn't define her AND seeing the good that God wrought from her past brought tears to my eyes a time or two!

Four Stars ~ A Lady in Attendance by Rachel Fordham is a lovely romance with profound truths that will leave a warm feeling in your heart! A Lady in Attendance is a standalone, but the author has other novels in her backlist for readers to enjoy.

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

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