Buried underneath are truths bent on keeping them apart. . . .
In 1889 Victorian England, Eva Inman is haunted by guilt over her parents' deaths while struggling to care for her blind sister and manage her family's crumbling estate. With the tax deadline looming, Eva's situation looks dire until an ancient silver ring is unearthed on the property. Despite superstitions warning against disturbing the supposedly cursed acres, Eva's need for funds ignites her curiosity about the potential of finding more buried relics.
Cambridge professor Bram Webb must prove a legendary Christian Roman settlement exists, or he'll risk exposing his uncle's deteriorating memory and they'll both lose their positions. Then Eva steps into his office with the prospect of an archaeological dig that might lead to the very evidence Bram requires--provided he and Eva can set aside painful memories of a time both would rather forget. As the dig forces the two to confront their pasts, the work becomes fraught with challenges that threaten both Eva's and Bram's hopes, as well as the growing attraction between them.
"Sure to delight fans of archaeological adventure and historical romance."--JULIE KLASSEN, bestselling author
Dive into the past in this clean historical romance as Michelle Griep transports you to Victorian England with an appealing mix of mystery, Roman archaeology, and charming banter. This enthralling tale will appeal to fans of Mimi Matthews, Andrea Penrose, Anna Lee Huber, and Miss Scarlet and the Duke.
"Though truth might be absolute, discerning the right course of action when living that truth was often anything but obvious."
Michelle Griep has a talent for bringing the Victorian era to life vividly. I absolutely adored traveling to 1889 England with its passion for archeological digs and awakened sense of social justice amidst crumbling manors and restrictive world of academia. Eva was a wonder - a woman grown up too quickly with a world of responsibilities on her shoulders. Bram was completely and utterly delightful as a reformed bad boy, passionate about family and Roman antiquities, faithful, steadfast, and clever. Their conversations were truly gems strewn throughout the book. Eva's faith journey, encouraged and supported by Bram, was a beautiful unfolding of vulnerability and fears culminating in trust and obedience. Penny was a lovely secondary character and perhaps there will be a book about her someday when she's grown. I really enjoyed learning about the Roman Christians' settlement in England and the mystery and suspense wrapped around the dig site added depth to this historical romance.
Fans of historical romance, especially those set in Victorian England, look no further for your next book. Bram and Eva will captivate and dazzle you.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House via Interviews & Reviews and NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
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