THE SHOPKEEPER'S WIDOW by Izzy James, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseAug20

This story takes place in 1774, Norfolk, Virginia, a volatile time in our National history. Delany Flint is a former indentured servant who is now a widow and owner of extensive properties. She is fearful that the English will destroy or seize her shop and house. Delany departs for her other holdings in a more remote place. But trouble follows her. She is adamantly anti-slavery, having allowed her indentured servants to purchase their freedom for a nominal sum and giving them land.

Field Archer is a landowner, who is heir to a vast plantation. He is a patriot who will stand up for the Colony. He is torn about the question of slavery. It is a crime to free slaves. He cannot fathom the logistics of such an act, although he agrees with the principle that no one should own another human being. Delany and Field have known each other since childhood. But new circumstances threaten their connection.

This was a very interesting glimpse into Colonial times. Delany is shown to be independent but still needs protection. Field wants to provide that protection. He is loyal and in his own way fights for the cause of liberty. Ms. James has a way with words that puts you in the story. She writes her villains with a nastiness that has you rooting for the hero and heroine. She shows the age old quest for power but also shows the value of independence and true freedom. Faith is clearly portrayed and the Christian World View is depicted. A takeaway is: when you surrender to Christ, you find your worth in Him.

If you like stories set in Colonial America, I highly recommend this book. I have found a new historical Christian Fiction author! I look forward to reading more from Ms. James.
*I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.* I give this book 5 stars. A strong faith thread. 

BackCover Blurb:
Delany Fleet, a widowed former indentured servant living in the colonial port of Norfolk, Virginia, dreams of having an estate of her own where she will never have to compromise her freedom.

When the only man she ever loved shows up with a load of smuggled firearms, Delany is forced to leave her home and her livelihood to protect her family and property from Lord Dunmore's raids and the conniving plots of a man who claims to be her friend.

Now, with her destiny forever altered, Delany must find a new way to happiness. Can reconnecting with her husband's family and a former love be the path that God has for her?

WhiteRose Publishing, August 2020
Available in digital ebook at Amazon