THE HIGHEST OF HOPES by Susan Ann Mason, Reviewed by Paula and Winnie

Paula's Review:
The Highest of Hopes by Susan Anne Mason is a companion book in the Canadian Crossings series. The first book is The Best of Intentions. Although some characters are mentioned in this book it is not necessary to read that book first.

In the main female character of Emmaline Moore, the author has penned a determined young lady who knows just what she wants. She even sells all that she has to embark on a journey from England to far off Canada. She is in search of a father who may not even welcome her into his life. Emma has taken a childhood friend, Jonathan Rowe as a companion for the journey. Jonathan has loved Emma for a very long time. Will Emma stop being so focused on her new-found family long enough to see what God has put right in front of her? If she looks at Jonathan from a new perspective, will she see what she has been looking for?

Ms. Mason has written an intricate plot that has interesting surprises. The secondary characters are fleshed out and add depth to the story. My favorite is Maryann, a half sister.

I was impressed with the hope and forgiveness shining through this novel. This story is interestingly based on research into the author’s ancestors. Although not an exact duplicate of her great grandmother’s life, Ms. Mason takes a nugget and transforms it into an incredible tale.

I enjoyed these first two books of the series and look forward to the next one.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *

Winnie's Review
What an adventure I went on as I traveled with Emmaline Moore and Jonathan Rowe from England across the ocean to Toronto, Canada in search of the father that Emmaline thought had died long ago. Having no other family now, she felt it would give her a sense of belonging. Although the reception she gets is less than promising, Emmaline learns some important lessons:

“There’s only one parent’s love you truly need: your Heavenly Father’s. And the good news is you don’t have to earn it, and you don’t have to prove yourself worthy to receive it. You are loved for exactly the person you are, with all your faults and flaws. In His eyes, you are a masterpiece. His own wondrous creation.”

“. . . family is not always the people you’re born to. Sometimes they’re the people God places in your life. The ones who choose to love you.” 

Susan Anne Mason sets the scene for her second book in the Canadian Crossings series with her beautiful prose and careful attention to historical detail. The main characters, Emmaline and Jonathan, are well-crafted and easily visualized, and the secondary characters add depth and charm to the story. Jonathan’s devotion to Emma, his courage and integrity, and his tender care of those he loves makes him an exemplary hero. “Sometimes we have to fight for the people we love.” Emma’s tenacity, independence, and sometimes headstrong ways add color and emotion. I loved seeing the growth in all the characters, and the way they learned from their experiences.

Threads of hope, courage, and the importance of family, whether related by blood or not, run through the tale. There’s a little intrigue, a little romance, a lot of growth and inspiration, in this very enjoyable story. Although this is part of a series, it’s also a standalone book. I’ve read several of Mason’s books, and they’re all wonderful! I’m already looking forward to her next one. 4 ½ stars out of 5

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

BackCover Blurb:
After her beloved grandfather's death, Emmaline Moore is shocked to discover that her "deceased" father is actually living in Canada. Having no other family, Emma decides she must find him, and so embarks on a journey across the ocean, accompanied by her best friend, Jonathan. Unfortunately, Randall Moore and his well-to-do family aren't thrilled by her arrival, fearing her sudden appearance will hinder his chance at becoming mayor of Toronto in 1919. Despite everything, Emma remains determined to earn their affection.

Jonathan Rowe has secretly loved Emma for years and hopes that during their trip he can win her heart. Concerned that Randall might reject her, Jonathan is ready to console Emma and bring her home. When she informs him that she has no intention of returning to England, Jonathan begins to despair. Can he convince Emma to find value within herself rather than seeking it from a virtual stranger? And will she ever come to see that Jonathan is her true home?

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