Suellen
1877, Tennessee. While slowly recovering from the Civil War’s devastation, thirty-year-old Suellen, a widow and resident of Fremont, Tennessee, meets Theodore Kincaid, a charismatic local physician. When he proposes and tells her of his plan to move to Oberlin, Ohio, to improve his practice, Suellen envisions leaving her past sorrows behind and pursuing a wonderful, new married life. But, from the beginning, her longtime friend and companion, Lucy Lejeune, is against the union. Despite Lucy’s misgivings, Suellen weds Theodore and convinces Lucy to relocate with them. While traveling by rail to their new home, an unknown assailant robs the train and kidnaps Suellen. This shocking incident triggers mysterious, surprising events with dramatic consequences.
DeTarsio’s charming historical romance comes alive with vibrant, immersive descriptions of deep South culture and tradition in the aftermath of the Civil War. This engaging, entertaining novel features a robust cast of well-developed characters skillfully portrayed through authentic, original language, witty dialogue, and clever plot twists. The story focuses on the complex and intriguing relationship between Suellen and her friend Lucy, two captivating, independent, courageous, and compassionate heroines born and bred in the Antebellum period. The special connection between Suellen and her abductor is also a highlight. DeTarsio captures this bond through intimate scenes that unfold in tender, humorous, and heartbreaking ways, evidencing how unexpected events can impact a lifetime. Love, loss, and forgiveness are the themes deftly woven into this enchanting, imaginative, fun, and memorable tale.
