“I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.”
London, 1817: When Barclay Durbin, a young street preacher, encounters Honora Goodwin, injured on a London street, he doesn’t know she has just escaped from Titania’s Bower, a brothel. Taking her to his ancestral home to recover amongst his family, he falls in love with the vivacious girl and comes to believe that she is divinely appointed to become his wife.
Honora begins to feel similarly and know that the good-hearted gentleman’s attentions would likely ensure her future happiness, but she is intent on liberating Celia Woodlow – the friend she was forced to leave behind at the Bower. Telling Barclay only parts of her own story, Honora enlists the besotted young man to help her.
When their plan goes awry, Honora realizes that only the truth can deliver them from the emotional and societal maelstrom in which they find themselves. But if she divulges all, what will become of Honora and Barclay’s budding attachment? And will Celia ever gain her freedom?
Out of the Bower tells the tale of a forbidden romance, an ardent friendship, and the ever-essential redemption of self.
Purchase Links
US – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RCC7NZF
UK – https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08RCC7NZF
Author Bio – A.E. Walnofer spends weekdays mobilizing the soft tissue and synovial joints of patients, and weekends typing out stories that are incessantly brewing inside her head. There are lots of these tales and she hopes to share many more of them with you in the future.
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My Review
This historical romance wasn’t a light read. Out of the Bower took on a very serious topic – human trafficking. Although this still occurs today, this book lets us see how easily young girls could be captured in their innocence. The young ladies were victims of poverty and were deceived as they took jobs at Titania’s Bower. At first, they believed it was a respectable coffee house. The madam tricked them, drugged them, and then they were trapped.
Although this book deals with these issues, there isn’t graphic detail. I wouldn’t recommend this book for young readers, but it’s fine for more mature readers. After reading many historical romances, this one impressed me because of the way the author made the story believeable. Any historical references were woven into the writing in a natural way.
My favorite part of the book is the beautiful grace-filled story-line of Barclay. As a young minister, he was devoted to Christ and following the Bible. He was honest with himself and with those he tried to help. When he saw hypocrisy in his own heart he was willing to change. He exhibited true Christianity. I hope to read more in the Durbin Family story.
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Thanks for such a great review, Lisa. I’m glad Barclay’s story resonated with you. I kind of adore him. 🙂
Aimee Walnofer
It was a joy to read! I look forward to more 🙂