"Where Hearts Are Free," by Golden Keyes Parsons

My Review:

The first few times that I tried to read this book, I ended up bored and put it down after the first 10 pages or so. Finally, I pushed my way through the first chapter, and settled into the story. It's mainly the story of Bridget Barrington and the Clavell family, which the story switches back and forth from frequently. Bridget is in love with Philippe Clavell, who has worked for her for six years as an indentured servant (an event which transpired in previous books). However, because he is "only" a servant, she is forbidden to marry him, and her parents instead insist on a more suitable match - the daunting Edward Moorehead.

As I mentioned previously, it takes a while to get into the story. Once you push through the first chapter, though, it's an enjoyable read. I had not read the two preceding books in the series, and so it was hard to have very little backstory on the characters. Although it was fine as a stand-alone book, I never quite felt emotionally vested in the characters. As much as it pains me to say it, I also found the heroine annoying at times - she is basically a love-struck teenager through most of the book, and although she is meant to be heroic there are certainly times when she comes off as desperate. The story moves along at a good pace, and there are a few moments that are truly engrossing. Where Hearts Are Free is a quick read with a good story, but ultimately I don't think I'll remember much about it.

Book Description Provided By the Publisher:

The odds are stacked against Bridget and Philippe reuniting. But God has a plan for them if they'll only believe.

It’s 1687, in the burgeoning town of Philadelphia, and for seven years, Bridget Barrington has watched with growing affection as Philippe Clavell worked as an indentured servant for her father, a wealthy landowner.

Her father rejects her request for Philippe to be a potential suitor as he has none of the qualities Mr. Barrington hoped for his daughter's future husband, the least of which is a respectable income.

Heartbroken, Bridget accedes to her parents’ wishes and gets engaged to a man she does not love. However, Bridget's husband-to-be does not love her, but only her wealth.

But there's always light in the midst of darkness for those who have faith. This stunning historical romance concludes the gripping Darkness to Light series.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”