Inspired by true events, Christy Hall of Fame author Cathy Gohlke delivers a powerful new historical novel weaving together the discovery of insulin--a breakthrough that revolutionized modern medicine--and one woman's brave fight to cling to her family and hope against unspeakable odds.
New York City, 1918. When schoolteacher Gwendolyn Armstrong learns of her sister's worsening illness, she travels to Marion's stately home to tutor her young niece and nephew, kept from school by the Spanish flu outbreak. Though the family lives in luxury, Gwen is wary of Marion's sophisticated, often-absent husband, Russell, who once cast Gwen aside for her sister, leaving wounds that never fully healed.
As Marion's health declines, a sense of foreboding settles over the family. Gwen observes strangers coming and going from Russell's study at all hours, and her lingering distrust turns to suspicion that he is hiding something that could threaten the family's safety and security. But when the deadly flu claims victims among the family and mansion staff, Gwen and her nephew, Alistair, are forced to accept terrible losses caused by the epidemic followed soon after by his own fatal diagnosis of juvenile diabetes.
When a compassionate doctor becomes both an advocate and friend, chasing down every promising medical development in the race for a cure, Gwen clings to each shred of hope. But as Russell's clandestine dealings erupt into a shattering revelation, she must summon every ounce of courage she possesses. With Alistair's life hanging in the balance, Gwen pleads for a faith she doesn't yet possess, realizing she must surrender him to God and the possibility of a miracle that could save him and reshape her future in ways she never imagined.
- Gripping, hope-filled Christian fiction with a dash of romance inspired by true events
- Perfect for book clubs and fans of historical women's fiction by Lynn Austin, Rachel Fordham, and Jennifer Chiaverini
- Includes discussion questions and themes of family, forgiveness, and redemption
About the Author :
Four-time Christy and two-time Carol and INSPY Award-winning author Cathy Gohlke writes novels steeped with inspirational lessons from history. Her stories reveal how people break the chains that bind them and triumph over adversity through faith. When not traveling to historic sites for research, she and her husband, Dan, divide their time between northern Virginia and the Jersey Shore, enjoying time with their grown children and grandchildren. Visit her website at cathygohlke.com and find her on Facebook at CathyGohlkeBooks.
Review :
Readers will alternately cry and cheer as Gwendolyn becomes a fierce medical advocate, racing against time, wrestling with her faith, and hoping against grim odds. Gohlke brings history to life with urgent, vivid prose that will engage modern readers.
--Library Journal
