Synopsis
How can a meek wallflower help a returning war hero whose dreams are plunged into darkness?
Mary
Bloomfield has no illusions. Her chances for matrimony have long since
passed her by. Still, her circumstances are pleasant enough, especially
now that she has found purpose in assisting her father with his medical
practice in England's beautiful Lake District. Even without love, it's a
peaceful life.
That is until Adam Edgerton returns to the sleepy
district. This decorated war hero did not arrive home to acclaim and
rest, but to a new battle against the repercussions of an insidious
disease. Mary's caring nature cannot stand to see someone suffer--but
how can she help this man see any brightness in his future when he's
plunged into melancholic darkness, his dreams laid waste by his
condition?
Adam wants no charity, but he's also no coward. If
this gentle woman can work hard, how can he do less? Together they
struggle to find a way forward for him. Frustration and antipathy slowly
develop into friendship and esteem. Then a summer storm atop a mountain
peak leads to scandal--and both Mary and Adam must search the depths of
their closed hearts for answers if they hope to find any future path
with happiness at its end.
My Review
Two of my favorite types of characters were featured in this story- a military hero recovering from injury, and a stalwart heroine who finds purpose in being helpful. The author authentically depicted the range of emotions Adam went through as he grieved his former life and adjusted to his new reality. I loved how Mary balanced compassion with bluntness, like her father. It proved to be the soul-healing medicine Adam needed, even though he fought against it at times. I loved how they interacted and their friendship blossomed in difficult circumstances. Mary's tender feelings are hidden as she puts on a strong front, but she is vulnerable to thoughtless comments about her lack of marital prospects. Her younger sister is blunt without the compassion and the girls clash like oil and water, yet there is a strong thread of family loyalty and love that emerges. Their friend Emily who was engaged to Adam is a complication that provides an interesting study of human nature and self-preservation. What I liked most about this book is the hope that emerges from the darkness as Adam makes the shift from depression to determination, and the role Mary plays in supporting him. A wonderful story!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
- a copy of Dusk’s Darkest Shores
- a canvas bag to carry your latest reads
- a fun pair of Jane Austen socks
- Novel Teas’ English Breakfast tea
- “Drink tea, read books, and be happy” tea spoon
- “Let your faith be bigger than your fear” mug
- Black currant preserves from England
- Wax Lyrical candle from England
