Haven for Her Heart

Beautiful and Deeply Touching Historical Romance!

WOW! This was a deep and heartwrenching g story that swept me up! I love Susan Anne Mason’s stories, and with this one, the start to a new series, I had high expectations… I have to say those expectations were completely surpassed! This story tore at my heart and was even more realistic and dramatic, yet always so hopeful and inspiring, that I was engrossed in Olivia and Darius story, wanting to know more about them, rooting for them to pursue and fight for their dreams, which will eventually lead them to each other…
A short synthesis of the plot: It’s 1939 and Olivia Rosetti is liberated after almost two years from the Women Mercer Reformatory in Toronto, Canada. Her crime: getting pregnant out of wedlock (yes, you heard right). Worst of it, she was abused and separated from her child, she does not know where he ended up. After being once more rejected by her family, in her most darkest moments she seeks protection in a church, where a kind and lonely widow -Ruth Bennington- who has lost her sense of purpose, finds her and invites her to her home. That’s how they become friends and the idea of founding a maternity for women in need of help originates and begins to unfold. Soon after a couple of months, they are ready to start, and women begin to arrive. But things are not as easy and obstacles will soon find their way to them. One in the form of handsome greek widower Darius Reed, who is a succesful businessman, which boss wants the Bennington Home for Women's land for his own financial purposes. Darius has the task to convince Ruth Bennington to sell the place, and he’s pretty good at convincing, but this time, his convictions will be turned upside down, as he meets selfless Ruth and beautiful, passionate and compassionate Olivia, and the beautiful and merciful proyect they are giving their life and energy for. Darius has struggles of his own, wanting to protect his daughter from the prejudice that killed his late wife by marrying into high class society. But is his goal what God really wants for him? And while Olivia hides her shameful secret from Darius, will love help her open up and trust him? Will he reject her or be worthy of her trust and see past human mistakes into the beautiful woman inside out she has become?
The story was so compelling from the start. I was aware this book was based on true facts that took place in Canadian history, so this made the book all the more real and relatable. It is so sad to think society and the law would subject “fallen” women to such abuse and inhumanity to set some moral example. But much worse things happen right now to women, guilty or innocent, so this story rang true. And it touch the deepest cords of my heart in compassion for them. Olivia was a wonderful character. She was courageous, compassionate and resilient. Of course she was ashamed because of society standards and wanted to keep hidden her secret. She also needed forgiveness from God and from herself. The way she reaches this point was a beautiful sight to behold. God’s unconditional love and forgiveness to each of His children no matter what. The book’s message about redemption is touching and so inspiring. Darius has his own character growth in the story and I was fascinated by him too. He was a true hero. I don’t want to spoil the story. I’ll just end up saying I totally loved it, the plot, and the characters. The loved the main characters, but I also loved the secondary characters, Ruth being one of my favorites.
A highly and worthy recommended book! Can’t wait for the second installment in this series! I’m only sorry that I have to wait so long!
I received a complimentary copy from the Publisher but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.