Kathleen Rouser

Sophie intrigued me right away because I just knew she was keeping a huge secret. Traveling alone with a child is a big red flag for me. I kinda figured out a little about the child but I knew there was more to the story. I admired Sophie for taking a job that didn’t pay much but she worked hard and was appreciative for the people in the town who welcomed her.

The early 1900s were hard for everyone ,but as a young woman alone raising a child it was more difficult. Of course the town had show more their gossip group who loved to be judgmental instead of being filled with grace and reach out to her. Sophie will have to learn to trust God and remember that He loves her as trials come her way.

One of Sophie’s secrets is a sensitive subject that may trigger some readers. It has become impossible for Sophie to feel completely safe until her past is exposed and she receives God’s healing. Her self esteem at times is very low and therefore her trust is almost non existent. Perhaps the Reverend McCormick can help her.

I did like Ian right away and thought his character was humble, kind and filled with grace. He does try to get to know Sophie better, but there is a barrier that Sophie has put up. As Sophie decides to play the piano at church, she starts to let her heart open up very slowly. Ian is very encouraging and genuinely wants to help her overcome whatever is bothering her. He has such a pastor’s heart and you can feel his gentle spirit. I really liked this character and how he makes everyone feel loved and accepted.

When Gertrude made her entrance into the story, I was displeased . She is a mean spirited judgmental and unhappy woman. Why does it bother her so much that Sophie is now playing the piano at church? Her harsh words of Sophie “parading around in an evening gown at church and their questionable upbringing,” made me instantly remember how God loved even the lost or those who had sinned.

I loved how the author illustrates redemption and reminds us that we all have a past. The good news is that God forgives us and we have been set free. I loved getting to watch Sophie mature in her faith and begin to feel confident in herself.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. show less

In the spring of 1899, Cal Waterson was the head lighthouse keeper at the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse in Michigan. One stormy night, Cal and his crew believed there were no survivors from a ship called the Mallory. However, as they made their way back to shore, they discovered a young woman had washed ashore and was alive. When the young woman awakened, she found herself safe inside the lighthouse with Cal, his young daughter Lily, and his Aunt Ada.

Mystery enveloped the woman's presence, show more as she could not remember her name or anything about her family, home, or how she had come to be there—whether she was traveling alone or with someone. As the days passed, a bond began to form between the widower, his daughter, his aunt, and the stranger in their midst—a bond that even Cal couldn't deny.

The novella vividly portrays the setting and daily life through rich imagery of sights and sounds. It effectively conveys the characters' thoughts and emotions, connecting readers with their experiences. This faith-based story is written authentically, encouraging readers to understand that living by faith does not promise timely answers to prayers or shield one from confusion and anxiety. Instead, it shows how trust in faith offers grace and comfort in everyday life.

Copyright Page Note: "The Last Memory" was originally published in The Great Lakes Lighthouse Brides Collection.

Reviewer’s Note: The novella is available for download after subscribing to the author’s newsletter. show less

I enjoyed following Maggie on her journey of making a new life for herself after her husband passes away. It was interesting to read about a pharmacist during this time period. Maggie’s husband has taught her a lot about medicine while they were married. Now that he is gone she has to rely on the local pharmacist in town. There is a slight problem though when her son and his son have a fight. It is hard to swallow our pride sometimes.

Thomas has his hands full with all his kids running show more around out of control that not even their housekeeper can control them. He is left on his own trying to run the pharmacy, set up the soda fountain, take care of his kids when they get the measles and deal with Maggie who is upset. I liked how the author brought these two together when Thomas becomes very ill and Maggie is asked to help. It is the perfect solution since she is familiar with medicines but will they be able to get along?

There are moments in the story that reminded me of a movie with Doris Day in it. The kids try everything they can to make this strange lady leave, but she is determined to get the upper hand. All she needs to do is show them love , grace and understanding. The boys in this story were exasperating at times but Maggie knows what is really going on. They are missing their mother.

I loved the baking contest in the story and hints of a romance blossoming between two unlikely people. With faith as the front runner, this story is sure to please those who love historical fiction. The children are the highlight in this book as we see how losing a parent can affect them. They need love and encouragement as they deal with their grief.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. show less

A shipwreck leaves one survivor who cannot remember anything and the lighthouse keeper, Cal, rescues her. The young lady takes the name of the ship, Mallory.
The setting near Mackinac Island is a favorite since I once visited there. Lighthouses are very interesting to me and the descriptions brought me right into the story.
I liked the characters of Mallory, Cal and his daughter Lily. It was great to see Mallory interact with the little girl. Mallory knows almost nothing about her previous show more life, although she loves to draw and paint. But she does not know if she is married or has a family.
The romance was sweet but necessarily moved at a slow pace. The feeling of uncertainty was expressed very well, especially when someone from her past shows up. Mallory is confused but soon memories return.
This was a sweet, clean story with a solid faith thread that portrayed an honorable and godly hero.
*A complimentary copy of this ebook was provided through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.* show less