In the midst of the Great Depression, the main characters in Ann H. Gabhart's latest book, "Angel Sister," are dealing with not only financial difficulties, but a myriad of other struggles as well. Kate Merritt is only fourteen, yet she is working hard to keep her family together. Victor, Kate's father, is struggling with alcoholism, low self-esteem and post-traumatic stress from fighting in the war. Kate's mother, Nadine, does not know how to cope with her husband's behavior and is overwhelmed by daily life; therefore she will sit back and let Kate take control. Kate's older and younger sister both seem oblivious to everything going on. Kate finds a young girl, Lenora, on the steps of her grandfather's church and takes her under her wing. The presence of this young girl leads to secrets being revealed and also helps move the family into a different direction, however this is not without hurt and problems along the way.
Throughout the main story set during the Great Depression, the story of how Victor and Nadine met and their earlier years together as a couple are shared as well. This adds so much to the book and provides a deeper understanding of the characters and their relationships with other characters. Victor and Nadine are both hurting from their past and this carries over into their relationship as a married couple and also their relationships with their children.
This is a well-written novel with historical elements woven into the story. Forgiveness is a huge piece of this story as well as love. This is a great novel for any reader who enjoys historical fiction!
“Available February 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
Thanks, Kristie, for reading and reviewing my book. It's good to have readers sharing their thoughts with other readers. That's one of the fun things about the internet. Cute baby picture too. You're a busy momma with those two little ones.
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