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Review: The Lawyer and the Laundress

The Lawyer and the Laundress book cover on blue background

Am I ever grateful that Laura Frantz let me know about this wonderful story set in Canada! The Lawyer and the Laundress by Christine Hill Suntz is rightly anticipated for all the best reasons, and I honestly can't wait for everyone to read this story and be impacted by this slice of Canadian history.

Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Book Synopsis

Lawyer James Kinney isn’t looking for love, and laundress Sara O’Connor doesn’t want to be found. When their paths cross in a British colony on the brink of rebellion, a marriage of convenience may be their best hope of survival.

Canada, 1837. Widower James Kinney knows his precocious daughter, Evie, needs more than his lessons on law and logic, but Toronto offers few options. Classes with the neighbor children seem ideal until James discovers Evie is secretly spending her time with Sara O’Connor, a kind and mysteriously educated servant. For propriety’s sake, James forbids their friendship. But then Evie falls victim to the illness ravaging the city, and James must call upon Sara’s medical knowledge and her special bond with Evie to save his daughter’s life.

When Sara’s presence in his household threatens scandal, however, James offers an unexpected solution: become his wife, in name only, and help him raise Evie to be a proper young lady.

If Sara can ignore the sparks she feels when they’re together, his logical proposal could keep her secret secure forever. But soon, the forces of rebellion unravel their tidy arrangement. When James is accused of treason, Sara must find the courage to face a past that could save her husband’s life.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

This is the Christian historical fiction book I didn't know I needed to read! Now I can understand how Americans feel when they get to further understand a piece of their nation's history. I cannot gush enough about how splendid this Canadian story is and just how much I loved James, Sara, Evie, Henry, and Granny. This is a world so beautifully portrayed that I hope to have the opportunity to return to it again. The historical details are magnificent and the plot is sublime, with the Christian faith undergirding a passion for those who are impoverished and suffering. In fact, the plight of newcomers to Upper Canada in 1837 could very well describe the plight of new Canadians today, making this story as relatable as it is relevant.

This stunning story touches on God's unchanging nature and love for us in the midst of loss, and reveals how He can bring forth goodness from our trials. The Lawyer and the Laundress is an example of Christian fiction at its finest in bringing together faith, history, and a story that captures the heart. It reminds us of the reforms that people have earnestly sought out in order to better others’ lives and how God cares for the plight of all classes. If you're looking for a story that upholds biblical social justice while sweeping you along into a tender romance, this book will stir your emotions and leave a lasting impression of God's compassion for us.

Book Summary

  • Format of book: 📖
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Recommendation: 👍
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