Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana Book Review
Book Description
In a divided town during a dangerous era, who can be trusted?
Liberty, Indiana, is home to a stop on the Underground Railroad operated by Anna Brent and her father, covert abolitionists who harbor runaway slaves traveling toward freedom. The Brents must be very careful; anyone caught aiding runaways is subject to imprisonment under the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. So when Anna begins to write columns denouncing slavery in the local newspaper, she must adopt a pen name.
Even the newspapers editor, Daniel Stanton, does not know the author’s true identity. Daniel takes a risk publishing the columns-his job, his newspaper, and his very life might be in danger. When Anna’s work on the Underground Railroad is threatened, can she turn to Daniel, a man she barely knows, to ensure the safety of the slaves so dear to her? Will she and Daniel be willing to risk everything for their beliefs-including their personal liberty?
My Thoughts
Melanie Dobson has a versatility in her writing that is simply incredible. I always know that when I pick up one of her novels, I’m going to be impressed at her research and attention to detail. The subjects that she chooses to write about are all common (at least, what I’ve read so far), but her presentation of them is what I appreciate the most.
Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana is a suspenseful story about a Quaker father and daughter working on the Underground Railroad. At the very beginning of the story, I was quickly pulled into the plot of one of the slaves that was traveling with her newborn baby. I knew the novel would focus on Anna as a conductor, but since the conductors are not supposed to know what happens to their passengers as they travel north, I didn’t think I would be reading more about this woman and her baby. While her particular journey was difficult to read, it tied in exactly the way it was supposed to with the rest of the story.
Also part of this story is Daniel, a local newspaper journalist who is passionate about seeing people freed from slavery. He is outspoken in his views, and at one point believes Anna to support slavery. Since conductors had to be so secretive of their jobs on the Underground Railroad, she has to fudge the truth a bit as to not reveal her important role.
While I’m so thankful that we are free from the slavery of our country’s past, I was so glad to read about these characters and how their lives were impacted as they traveled the Underground Railroad. I cannot imagine the journeys that they took, knowing they may be caught and returned to their masters only to be beaten and abused. I also cannot fathom being a mother of a newborn baby, trying to escape to save my own life plus the life of my innocent child. It leaves me speechless and heartbroken that people had to endure such cruelty and pain.
While sad in some parts, there are many happy moments sprinkled throughout the suspense, and there’s just enough romance to make you feel warm and fuzzy inside. The supporting characters were all expertly included and rounded out the story quite well. I am happy to give this book a well-deserved 5 star rating, and ready to read my next Melanie Dobson novel!
Jewelry Inspired by this Book
There were two separate things that inspired this item – the mention of two lockets given to Daniel and Esther, and Anna’s full-throated singing of Amazing Grace. I decided to put both themes together in a locket of my own.
Amazing Grace Locket Necklace
Our Amazing Grace Necklace is a stunning piece of jewelry that combines elegance and versatility. This locket necklace features a beautiful floral design, inspired by the Christian hymn “Amazing Grace.” It is not only a fashionable accessory but also a meaningful keepsake. The locket can be opened to reveal space for a small photo or a special message, allowing you to carry a cherished memory …
