A Riveting Look at the Orphan Train from Historical Novelist Jody HedlundWhen a financial crisis in 1850s New York leaves three orphaned sisters nearly destitute, the oldest, Elise Neumann, knows she must take action. She’s had experience as a seamstress, and the New York Children’s Aid Society has established a special service: placing out seamstresses and trade girls. Even though Elise doesn’t … though Elise doesn’t want to leave her sisters for a job in Illinois, she realizes this may be their last chance.
The son of one of New York City’s wealthiest entrepreneurs, Thornton Quincy faces a dilemma. His father is dying, and in order to decide which of his sons will inherit everything, he is requiring them to do two things in six months: build a sustainable town along the Illinois Central Railroad, and get married. Thornton is tired of standing in his twin brother’s shadow and is determined to win his father’s challenge. He doesn’t plan on meeting a feisty young woman on his way west, though.
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I’ve liked all the Orphan Train books I’ve read. There are many authors and some of the stories are true events from the past of the orphans or their family. This is another good one and about adult women, which I did not know historically went West for work during hard times in the cities.
First, it is a terrific story and well written. That being said, I’m sorry I didn’t do further research on this book. A couple years ago I had read a novella by this author and thought it great. This book is Book #1 about orphans and their survival; towns being built along the railroad; a rich mogul business man who challenges his twin sons to further his expectations; orphans that get displaced, lost, given to the Children’s Aid Society, etc.; but, these situations are never all solved. You are left hanging with two toddlers lost and a young woman left wandering the streets, plus, the fact that heinous crimes against humanity were committed without there being punishment in this book. Yes, there’s cliffhangers and I didn’t know it. My fault. I should have read reviews. It looks like if I buy Books #2 and #3, I might find endings. Thanks for Kindle Unlimited.
I enjoyed this historical, informative novel and didn’t want it to end. I had a hard time putting this book down. It’s sad how orphans were treated around 1929 as well as mothers with young children.
One of my favorite books and series. It was so interesting to learn the history of that time. I thought the other did a wonderful job.The characters were well developed and the story was so fascinating. I didn’t want to put it down I highly recommend this series for anyone that likes historical romance! A wholesome Christian read.
I always enjoy reading her books. Tje characters are well developed and real. I enjoy the history of the times behind the story. I definitely would recommend this book.
Enjoyed it.very inspiring also glimpses into history. God centered
One of the best book s EVER!!
Enjoyed very much
Really enjoyed the story and the characters!
It gave an excellent description of the hardships in the cities during the time of the orphan train period of our country.
All of Misty aBelker books are enjoyable. I alwsys look foreword to every new book of hers. They are well written, no sex or bad words. I am never ashamed to recommend her books to anyone.
Great story and series!
Having started the book, it was impossible to put down for very long – loved the humanness of the hero/heroine – loved the faith journey of both – LOVED the story telling and especially the sigh-worthy portions!
A GREAT READ
I have read the whole series and I would recommend it highly. Don’t give up on those you love and cherish cause GOD is working in their lives as well as yours. He will take charge and reunite you all when the time is right and you are all ready. This story shows the heartache of having to make really tough decisions in order to take care of those you love and how life can change circumstances in an instant….a must read but read the whole series….you will love it.
I loved this story so much, the rapport between Elise and Thorton was just the best. I was amazed at the state of things in 1850s New York, but it brought them together and made the story so interesting. The relationship between Thorton and his twin is a case of brother vs brother and just adds to the story. Elise taking over the cooking in the new town he is building was a great thing, it made me hungry reading about she was cooking/baking. I just loved all aspects of this book, it just shows you how strong men and woman were back then to start a town from scratch and work so hard to make it all work. I look forward to reading the next two books that have Elise’s sisters and how they make there way. I have found a new favorite author in Judy Hedlund.
This book, and the 2 others in this series, have whet my curiosity about the Orphan Train children. I have since read more on the subject.
Set in the War Between the States, a wife follows her husband to the battle field under the guise of being a soldier. How does she keep the masquerade and what happens when she is unmasked. Based on true accounts, this is an interesting twist on stories from this era.
Interesting topic!
I love this author and have read most of what she has written. She always teaches me something; this one is about the orphan trains west. Another series was on lighthouses in Michigan. But all are well researched and enjoyable reads.
Looking forward to reading the next book in the series!