AUTHOR: Tracie Peterson, Kimberley Woodhouse
DATE: 2016
PUBLISHER: Bethany House
STARS: *****
Lillian Porter has always wanted to fulfill her mother’s dream of going west, so when she hears about a nanny position in Angels Camp, California, she defies her grandfather and takes a chance on a new future. But she quickly wonders if she made the right choice. Murky rumors swirl around Woodward Colton, her new employer, but the gossip doesn’t match the man Lillian comes to know.
Still, something dark did happen in the family’s past. Lillian’s seven-year-old charge, Jimmy, hasn’t spoken in over a year. Gently, Lillian tries to coax him out of his shell, hoping he’ll one day feel safe enough to share what scared him. But the Colton olive farm is no longer a safe place. When the housekeeper is brutally attacked, the town once again suspects the worst. Will discovering the truth help Lillian clear the name of the man she has come to love—or will it endanger her even more?
This story grabbed me from the first line and didn’t let go until the very end. I fell in love with little Jimmy right away and hoped Miss Lillian could find a way to break through his silence to begin his healing. Jimmy’s dad, Woody, needed some healing of his own after being accused of murdering his wife. Lillian was a strong, sympathetic character, and I found myself cheering for her, especially when her temper burst out against the townspeople. I loved the way she dealt with Jimmy’s friend, Harry, creating a circle of respect and safety for both damaged boys. And I adored Mrs. Goodman. What a treasure.
Beyond the Silence is a beautiful tale of loss, danger, faith, and love. It ranks in the top five books I’ve read in the last year, and I give it five stars. Highly recommended.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.