The Artisan’s Wife
In 1876, Ainslee McKay and her twin sister, Adaira, are inseparable. When her sister elopes after they commit to a new business venture, Ainslee must honor her family obligation to the new tile works her brother Ewan has purchased in the town of Weston, at least until a new buyer can be found. The tile works attracts tile maker, Levi Judson, whose talent and artistry quickly find him a home in the McKay operation, but a job isn’t his only reason for traveling to the small town of Weston. Will Levi’s secrets keep him from finding happiness?
Judith Miller returns to West Virginia as readers of the Refined By Love series say goodbye to the McKay family. The series, which centers on the Irish immigrants who established a brickworks (The Brickmaker’s Bride) and later expanded by purchasing a pottery (The Potter’s Lady) concludes with the acquisition of a tile works in The Artisan’s Wife. Miller’s research into the period production of clay manufacturing is based on factual companies that existed in the Pennsylvania and West Virginia areas where her Scots-Irish ancestors settled, so the historical accuracy is touched upon by the author’s own background.
This latest novel by Miller is a sweet conclusion to the series with the wholesome themes of selfless love opening the door to understanding differences, finding purpose in the midst of adversity, and the power of forgiveness to heal.
