“I won’t have her forced,” Jack said. “Let her decide for herself.”Amy knew her father meant it. She could say no if she wanted. But this marriage would make everything all right. They could put all the trouble she had caused behind them. Everyone would be happy again.Everyone except her.“Sentence of Marriage” is the first book in the three-volume “Promises to Keep”.In nineteenth century New … Keep”.
In nineteenth century New Zealand, there are few choices for a farm girl like Amy. Her life seems mapped out for her by the time she is twelve. Amy dreams of an exciting life in the world beyond her narrow boundaries. But it is the two people who come to the farm from outside the valley who change her life forever, and Amy learns the high cost of making the wrong choice.
“One of the best historical novels I’ve had the pleasure to read in years.” – WorkingGirl Reviews.
“The story was captivating, the characters real, the dialogue crisp. I admit to having cried and laughed and even having wanted to murder a character and beat another one within an inch of his life — which is simply a testament to how well written these books are.” – AmericanEditor.
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Read all 4 books for a full set of portraits
Love the characters . The only problem is you must keep buying the books ,very addictive stopped at four
not for the romantic or happy ever after reader- this is a sad story of the treatment and empowerment of average women
Interesting historical story
The whole series is excellent.
I liked it so much I actually purchased the two other books in this series.
Downer without redemption. Dragged on without gaining my interest in the characters or story line. Would not read anything else by this author.
dysfunctional families extrordinaire
Loved it. Couldn’t wait to read the next book. 0p
Interesting story about life in New Zealand. Fate of heroine was rather predictable as was “wicked” stepmother take. Still, was a nice read.
Original family saga. Heartbreaking but extremely interesting. First of three books.
I loved the geographical descriptions and how the author named indigenous plants to make the reader “see” New Zealand. The characters were complex and you could really love them or hate them. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Once I read the first book, I had to order #2 & #3. They keep my attention and are hard to put down. Amy has such a difficult life and is surrounded by people with their own agenda that gives them what THEY want. Can hardly wait until I finish to series to find out what happens. Depressing, irritating, inspiring.
Despite some steeeotypical characters, the details of life on an island off the New Zeland Coast were mesmerizing! I enjoyed this so much I ordered the second book as soon as I finished.
Tragic story but there’s a satisfying ending. It’s been a long time since I read this book but it kind of haunts you. I think there are three in the series but the first stands alone but I would recommend the others too.
Certainly shows human nature in some areas even today… though it was set a hundred or so years ago.. well written .. I enjoyed it ..
I did not care for this series of books. It seemed to be the thing over and over again. Wouldn’t recommend them.
Have read the entire series. Could not wait for the next book to load into my kindle to begin reading the next phase of her life. This is an excellent collection
Must read the trilogy or it’s not worth the read. I did enjoy reading the series, however and would recommend it.
I hated the ending. I kept waiting for a happy conclusion and it didn’t come.