After the Shadows by Amanda Cabot

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 I can't get the picture to upload for some reason, but the front cover gives a shadowy, stormy look that really goes well with the story line. 

The first thing about this book, that, while kind of a spoiler, might also be necessary for trigger warnings. There is a lot of death, not graphic or violent, but lots of people have died and do die in the book, along with a perceived suicide. There is also the mention of domestic violence. 

But Emily shines through it all. She shows up her family's home only to discover her mother has died and her sister is very angry. This is not a spoiler as it all happens in the first couple of pages, but Emily persists. She is gracious and kind, while hiding some deep hurts of her own. I just can't help but like Emily, even if she seems almost too good to be true.

Of course, the school master comes along and is all kind and wonderful too, but I have to like him too. In an age where intellectually disabled children were shunned or institutionalized, he stands forth and welcomes Beulah and he and Emily champion her worth to the people of Sweetwater. I know it's just a story, but I have to admire that kind of character.

While a light and fluffy read, I really liked the characters, felt with their losses and admired their commitment to trust God and lean into the future.

I received this book from Revell and was not required to write a positive review.  All opinions expressed are my own. 



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