Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite

In The Wayfaring Widow by Casey Cline, Victoria, an English widow with secrets of a painful past, is sailing to America in the 1850s. She’s hoping for a fresh start and time with her friend, Isabella Bird. Victoria is reserved, while Isabella is more gregarious. When Ms. Bird’s father insists they travel to New York with an escort, their plans change. Harrison is a New York lawyer who has secrets of his own, including family burdens. At first, tensions are high. However, things steadily turn, and an unexpected bond begins to form with the trio while they’re on their rail journey. They see cities, fairs, and famous sites like Niagara Falls, with the widow revealing more of her history along the way and, in turn, hearing some of her escort’s as well. All this leads to a more tender connection between the two. Once each knows the whole story of the other, will they be willing to be together, or will their secrets be too much, causing them to part ways once the ladies reach their destination?

The Wayfaring Widow by Casey Cline drew me in with its intriguing cover. Once I began reading, I was hooked. Its gentle pace made the romance feel like a slow burn that earns every step forward. I appreciated how Harrison’s attraction to Victoria came slowly, at first thinking of her in a somewhat negative light. I also liked experiencing some of the places I’ve visited in real life through the eyes of someone from so long ago. Victoria’s thoughts during the Maid of the Mist ride brought back some memories. The writing was warm with just enough period details. I didn’t know about grapes being so scarce in England at the time. Victoria’s emotional evolution, seeing herself as more than her scars, really stayed with me. At the same time, Harrison’s mix of weariness, stubbornness, and quiet devotion made their connection feel believable and sweet. Overall, it’s the sort of romance I highly recommend to those with an interest in history.