JAB
Well-researched historical novel with plenty of drama.
November 13, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition
I received an advance review copy of this novel to review. It might be beneficial to read the prior book in this series in order to more fully appreciate the ongoing relationships, but it is not necessary.

This novel is ideal for historical fiction readers who crave historical accuracy and who love stories inspired by real events. The author's in-depth research about the Fugitive Slave Act (and events that arose from it) added rich texture to her tale. The attention to detail really shines through in this story, which is set in Connecticut in the mid-1800s. I enjoyed learning about a heavy topic while being entertained by a layered family drama.

As the blurb describes, the plot involves a lot of action but, for me, the deeper themes of family loyalty, race, secrets, and courage are at the heart of the narrative. There is also an element of faith that pervades Olivia's arc. In a sense, it is somewhat of a late coming-of-age tale of a youngish widow of mixed-race heritage who is torn between staying true to her values and protecting her family from danger. The story does contain romantic elements (for the heroine, and for her son), but those subplots take a backseat to the main thrust of this story (Olivia's involvement in harboring slaves, and how that affects her family and her future). I hesitate to say more because I do not wish to spoil the plot for readers.

I do think readers who pick this up will root for Olivia to overcome the obstacles that stand between her and a happier life.

Hope Unshackled is the continuing story of Olivia Pratt, now widowed, who has moved into the dark world of protecting fugitive slaves from capture. As a northerner, I was appalled at Connecticut’s part in persecuting slaves and mentally cheered on Oliva and all those brave families who risked arrest and harm by harboring slaves in their homes via the Underground Railroad. For me, this story was an eye-opener filled with a mix of gripping suspense, hope, and shame for all those who felt persecuting runaways was the right thing to do. Whether or not you are a history buff, you will find this tale a page turner.

I bought this book from the author at a book fair. I thoroughly enjoyed not only the intrigue but also the history during a terrible time in American history. What this family goes through after helping a runaway slave kept me turning the pages!

Hope Unshackled is a beautiful sequel to Faith Under Fire and a well-researched novel depicting the Underground Railroad in Connecticut. You will love the characters, widow Olivia and her sons Jeremy and Jonah, and will be engrossed in the story of runaway slave Elijah. The novel is filled with details of the era, and has characters you will come to care about, like the maid Lovena, who is wise and understanding, and Michael Jamieson, a love interest of Olivia and the town leader in helping slaves escape.

Elaine Violette is an author who does her research and writes a book true to its roots. Her characters literally breathe on the page.

Looking forward to book 3! So far has been a really good series. I love that the women in these books are strong characters and that the important men in their lives support their convictions.