Selah Banning has come of age on the West Indies island of Nevis, shaped by experiences far beyond the typical upbringing of a young British lady in 1776. She never anticipated that the most tumultuous time of her life might await her in the year ahead.Jedediah Reed, a young Methodist preacher with a call to serve the slaves of Nevis, has settled at Selah’s family’s plantation, the Double T. As … Double T. As Selah’s heart is drawn to the same people, their shared purpose brings them together–despite her guardians’ concern with a romance that promises little security for the future.
As Jedediah’s faith and Selah’s abolitionist leanings lead to changes on the plantation, the Revolutionary War continues to build in the States. With the threat of starvation and the conflict with island mogul Angus Shubert growing ever stronger, the future of the Double T and its people hangs in the balance.
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Selah Banning has come of age on the West Indies island of Nevis, shaped by experiences far beyond the typical upbringing of a young British lady in 1776. She never anticipated that the most tumultuous time of her life might await her in the year ahead.
Jedediah Reed, a young Methodist preacher with a call to serve the slaves of Nevis, has settled at Selah’s family’s plantation, the Double T. As Selah’s heart is drawn to the same people, their shared purpose brings them together–despite her guardians’ concern with a romance that promises little security for the future.
As Jedediah’s faith and Selah’s abolitionist leanings lead to changes on the plantation, the Revolutionary War continues to build in the States. With the threat of starvation and the conflict with island mogul Angus Shubert growing ever stronger, the future of the Double T and its people hangs in the balance.
This is the third story in the series The Sugar Baron’s Daughters. To fully understand where this story begins you should probably read the first two books in the series. I enjoyed reading about the youngest daughter, Selah, in this book. There were places that I thought dragged a little bit and I found myself skipping some of that. Other parts held my interest and I wanted to see what happened next. Overall all it was a good book and nice ending to this series.
I was given this book by Bethany House publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
Selah, the final book in The Sugar Baron’s Daughters series, is an engaging read and a satisfying end to the trilogy. I love how the author showcases strength, compassion, and faith in Selah and her sisters. There is a little adventure, a little romance, and a little history in this moving story.
I bought this book with the specific intention of treating myself to a good read over my three week school break. I was not disappointed! Lisa, once again, weaves a wonderful story that leaves me wanting more. In fact, when I turned the last page I was almost shocked it was over, I was so engrossed in the story and characters I didn’t realize it had come to an end. Selah is set during the beginnings of the Revolutionary War in the West Indies and follows the ups and downs to faith, trust and relationships all while integrating a deeply moving historical story line where the American colonies were fighting for their political freedoms and Selah is fighting for the personal freedoms of the slaves on the island she lives. While I suppose this could be read as a standalone novel I would highly suggest reading the other two books in the series that focus on Selah’s sisters, Keturah and Verity, to get a deeper understanding of the story. Lisa is one of only a few authors who I consistently come back to time and time again. Her writing is wonderful, I laugh with each of the characters and cry with their pain. I can’t wait to see what she writes for us next!
Great book! I Loved it
4.5stars
“This is how we do it, yes? . . . . We sacrifice for one another. We help each other to get through. We love one another through, in spite of, because of . . . And count every blessing.”
All three Banning sisters are remarkable in their own right, but as this wonderful series comes to a close, it’s Selah that takes center stage . . . with her remarkable courage, and incredible beauty that is immeasurably more than skin deep. Can her sweet, generous heart be tested? Absolutely. And so it will be, as she struggles to navigate life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness on an island that reeks of injustice from master towards slave; from owner towards his “property”. Even though war wages through-out the American colonies; evidence sailing in and out of the ports among the West Indies, it’s a godly young minister who works alongside those that she loves so dearly, who will prove to be Selah’s biggest challenge on the island of Nevis. . . . . .for should she trust her head, or her heart?
“From our first moment here on earth to when we at last see our Savior in paradise, we are called to do one thing; trust.”
The third book in The Sugar Baron’s Daughters trilogy does not disappoint. By the time you are to Book 3, you feel like you know and love this family. I had read the first two last summer and waited for this book. I re-read the first two recently to be ready for this book’s arrival. I loved the adventure and loyalty of the characters. I hope we get to see more from this family.
A wonderful story of how God weaves people’s paths together for his glory and for the good of his children.
Lisa Bregan leads us into the world of slave trade, freedom for the slaves, espionage and those who fought to birth a new world.
My heart soared while reading this book. It wasn’t just about the history but the story, the characters drew me and captivated me. The Heroine Selah was one of the most brave, bold and courageous female character I have ever read about and to think of the many wonderous things she did especially in the 1700s was nothing short of amazing. I loved reading about her reliance on God for help especially in the most dire of circumstances and her hunger for God’s word was so admirable.
The delightful and courageous Reverend Jedidiah kept me smiling throughout the book. My heart broke when his broke and I loved reading about his heart for the slaves even though he wasn’t one.
If you love history, an amazing story you’d love Selah. I really enjoyed the faith content of this book. Very applicable to everyday life.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
I really enjoyed Selah, the final book in Bergren’s “Sugar Baron’s Daughters” series. I read the first two and they were also very good. Although I am partial to the first book Keturah, the eldest of the three Banning sisters. This book could be read as a stand alone, but I think you would love the other two and have a better understanding of the characters in this one. Bergren series is so rich in history, taking in the affect the Revolutionary War in the US had on the West Indies. I loved reading about the life on the island of Nevis with it’s huge sugar plantations and an insight into the lives of the slaves. As those in the colonies fought against slavery and injustice, so did the Banning sisters at a great cost. Still they followed their convictions and let God lead. This is about Selah and a young preacher, Jedediah Reed who came to the island because he felt a calling to bring the gospel to the slaves of the island. There is suspense, danger and evil but love wins out……I received a copy of this novel by Bethany House via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
“So, if we are to put our lives in our faithful Father’s hands, we relinquish fretting and fear. We trust what comes, as his will, knowing that he remains with us through it all . . . And in time, in time, even if ‘tis not until the day we leave this earth and enter eternity, ‘twill all be made right. We can rest in what is today.”
What a beautiful way of looking at trials and struggles which might come our way. This is just one of the wonderful quotes I got from this book. I was touched deeply by many of the lessons Jedediah shared with the workers on the plantation.
This story covers Selah’s life and passion for work and sometimes rescue those who were slaves on the island. It was as if she wanted to save every one of them and often at the cost of her own health.
There is also the sweet story blooming between Selah and Jedediah, even though they both fought it. Then, it seemed Jedediah’s faith had died, when he came across an event which made him doubt his own worth. My heart wanted to scream at him and shake him. Lisa T. Bergren did a fantastic job of conveying the struggles he was having with self-doubts.
Many other scenes had me on pins and needles. I could feel the heat of the day, the fear, and tension Selah and Verity were facing. So real! I loved being able to hear more about the characters from the first two books. Keturah and Gray’s growing family and about Verity and Ian’s adventurous life. It was also fun to see Selah grow up to be a sweet woman with a courageous soul!
OH, MY GOODNESS! Lisa T. Bergren’s books have so much vibrant colors and grandeur to them! She truly knows how to paint pictures, so we have no problem seeing what’s happening in our minds! This story has lots of drama, a bit of suspense and wonderfully sweet romance. It is also a wonderful ending to a fantastic series of three strong women and their desire to live their lives as God would have them. Through the many trials and struggles of what life was like on the West Indies. For three women, one as a sugar plantation owner, one the first woman to own her own mercantile, as well as being a wife of a privateer, and one woman striving to rid the island of slavery.
This book and series will enrich your life with the many life lessons it has and will have you thinking about what it was like in those early days of our country and maybe even leave you with a desire to know more about the island life.
I highly recommend you pick this book and series up to read. It will keep you reading until the very end.
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is the third book in the Sugar Baron series that I have read and greatly enjoyed!
This is Salah’s story the youngest sister, a young woman who wears her heart on her sleeve, and hates injustice, to the point of sacrificing her life.
Besidesher sisters, Keturah and Verity, Salah is here, and other characters we have gotten to know, along with some we know perpetrate evil, and know that some are at it again.
Loved how some of these folks go about their lives all the while helping liberate the slaves on their island, but now helping the cause of the Patriots in the States.
Yes, these books have it all and are easy to get lost in, but you will miss them when the final pages are turned.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House and was not required to give a positive review.
(NO SPOILERS!)
Once again, multi-talented author, Lisa T. Bergren, takes the reader on an emotive journey to the exotic West Indies—tantalizing our senses with the sights and scents of purple-flowered jacaranda trees, ferns and palms, sugar cane fields, tropical birds, and the beautiful, turquoise blue waves crashing the shore.
Bergren’s expertise in researching the affect the Revolutionary War in the US had on the West Indies was outstanding. As those in the colonies fought against slavery and injustice, so indeed did Selah…courageous, lovely Selah. Her story and those she loved was heartbreaking, but hauntingly beautiful and romantic as well. As she feels called to serve the slaves on her plantation in Nevis alongside a young preacher, Jedediah Reed, she encounters dangers she never anticipated—intrigue, and love!
Although ‘Selah’ can certainly be read as a stand alone novel, I strongly advise reading the first two books in The Sugar Baron’s Daughters series to better acquaint yourself with all three sisters and their backstories. Beautifully written, I highly recommend this insightful novel of faith and courage in the midst of tremendous adversity.
“So if the God on high cares for us and cares for those things that concern us, and if He holds ultimate power—which He certainly does—then we are best served by trusting Him for what will be, rather than fearing what might not.” Selah. 🙂
I received a copy of this novel by Bethany House via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
What a fantastic finale to an epic saga of three sisters from Britain making their way on the Island of Nevis as sugar plantation owners in the 1770s! The Daughters of Sugar Baron series should be read in order since there are multiple subplots within each book that extend into the next story. This last book ties in so many themes from the previous two books like slavery, prejudice and hatred simply because of gender, race, color, and religion, bitterness and desire for revenge, Christian compassion and mercy, and support for the American revolutionary cause. With the backdrop of the beautiful Caribbean islands and the political unrest of the American Revolutionary War at its waters, the author brilliantly portrays the emotion and heart of that era in history and creates a delightful story of courage, faith, music, and romance.
Selah, the youngest of the Bennett sisters, is impulsive but has a big, tender, compassionate heart that bleeds for the people in need. Jedidiah, a traveling Methodist preacher, is an unlikely hero and quite different from Selah’s two brothers-in-law but captures Selah’s heart and imagination with his passion for God and His people, his humble nature, and his musical gift. They both learn what it means to be courageous in the face of adversity as enemies press in on every side. Their romance is a rocky one, full of doubt and second-guessing, but their love for each other is true as their hearts and vision align.
The entire series is a great read for fans of historical fiction and romance. I received a copy of the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
A touching story
Selah’s love and care for the slaves on Nevis caused her to propose revolutionary changes, which led to their family being ostracized. She spent time helping the slaves and freedmen on their plantation to learn about the Lord and to better their lot in life. She had a kind heart and was strong enough to stand up for herself, which she had to do more than once!
Jedediah was a Methodist pastor who had been called by the Lord to minister to the slaves. I loved his humble attitude and the way he worked alongside them instead of claiming an exalted position. He was determined to not to take a bride – knowing the conditions he would be living in.
I enjoyed seeing the interactions between the sisters and the deep love they had for one another. They were so protective and each would have sacrificed herself for the others.
Mr. Shubert, the owner of the largest plantation on the island, was quite the villain! He clearly hated the girls and worked on making their lives miserable. He used his power to make it difficult, if not impossible, for them to obtain supplies during a time when it was already extremely difficult! And his cruelty towards his slaves was reprehensible!
There was adventure, suspense, and romance all wrapped up in a story steeped in history. The faith and struggling faith of the characters led to discussions that pointed clearly to Jesus.
Much of the story dealt with cruelty and desperate times. While not overly violent or descriptive, the acts depicted were dark. It was well written and reminded a bit of the heavy feel of movies such as Anthony Adverse; full of drama and peril and yet ending with hope. As I prefer more light-hearted stories, this was not my cup of tea.
While it was obvious this was not the first book in The Sugar Baron’s Daughters series, I didn’t feel lost. I did wish I knew the backstories better and recommend you read Keturah and Verity before this one.
There are only three sisters and thus it seems like this would be the last of the series. However, the ending did leave room for more to come. So stay tuned – there could easily be more books forthcoming.
Read my review of Selah by Lisa T. Bergren at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Lisa Tawn Bergren brings her Sugar Baron’s Daughters trilogy to a perfect close with Selah. The journey that began with Keturah comes full circle as all three Banning girls come into their own, each with a purpose and determination to fight for justice. Bergren paints a story not only of vivid beauty but also of the lurid turbulence of the West Indies’ slave trade. Prepare to be caught up in the intrigue and struggle the Revolutionary War time period from a perspective not of the American colonies, but of the lesser known Caribbean Islands and their fight for survival. For in reading this book, you will be swept away by characters who grip your heart and a purpose that challenges your own faith.
A sweet and courageous tale, Bergren’s storytelling captivates until the end. I came away not only entertained, but with a heart more open to trusting in a God who calls us to courage in the face of injustice. Highly recommended.
I received this book from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Selah is rich historical fiction full of adventure and romance. The pictures of true love and sacrifice are incredibly moving. Although this book can be read by itself, Selah is a marvelous climax of this series. There is a wonderful balance of previously well developed characters, as well as, a new focus on Selah and Jedediah. Their romance is wonderfully written with both tension and touching moments. The storyline of this family continues to be interesting especially with Americans striving for independence and the effects felt in the West Indies. I am hoping that Lisa Bergren will add another book to this series. I was a beta reader for the author and received an early copy of the manuscript. All opinions are my own.