"Keturah" is the story of three single English sisters who travel to Nevis to take over their father's sugar cane plantation after he dies in a time when women simply didn't do that sort of thing.
I enjoyed the main character, Keturah, and how author Lisa Bergren explores the healing process she goes through after an abusive relationship. It was nice to have a heroine who, at the same time as being deeply flawed, strives to put the needs of her sisters before her own. A heroine who throws off comfort and social construct to get needed tasks done. In contrast to the thousand ways slothfulness and immaturity is celebrated on social media, this book was refreshing.
To be honest, I can't say I felt happy while reading this book. There was something about the plot line that kept me tense. (maybe that's the sign of a great story and well written antagonists) Whenever there are slaves involved or men circling women, I find myself with heightened anxiety - just waiting for the attack. Thankfully, unlike real life, nothing was too graphic. However, it still managed to bring to life the hardships endured by so many at this time and place in history.
One aspect about the book that pleased me was the love story. It wasn't ridiculous and more importantly it wasn't 'missionary dating'. Countless faith based romance novels show a believer getting involved with a non-believer only to have them come to faith. Thank you Ms. Bergren for writing a story I can share with my teen daughter without having to launch into the 'don't be unequally yoked' lecture first. (I've given it so many times as I'm handing her a novel that she now preemptively says, "I know Mom. Don't date non-believers."
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
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