Steeped in the culture of the Appalachian Mountains in the early 1900s, this story is a gem. It centers around Minerva Jenkins, who made a promise to her husband on his deathbed. A promise she keeps for almost 40 years until Del, a reporter, comes asking questions.
The vivid descriptions put you squarely in the story: “I saw the sunset. Streaks of orange and red. Fury yellows. The clouds blended in as though an angel dipped his fingers in them and gingerly stirred, making whips of purple and deep alabaster.”
Minerva, at 94, is lonely, set in her ways and feisty as all get out. Her mountain sayings were a hoot. I could not help but admire her and her story of a lifetime of wondering if she was good enough. She questions her promise and how long she must keep it, because, after all, her word is valuable.
Del brings questions and dredges up old hurts. But Del also brings with him a caring spirit. “Blood does not make a relationship. Kindness, caring, love make a family. You don’t have to be blood to be a perfect fit.”
Do not miss this immersive tale of Minerva, who lived on Godly principles, with humor and sacrifice and still had much to learn even in her advanced years.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell through Interviews and Reviews and Library Thing. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*5++ stars and a strong faith thread
BackCover Blurb:
When Minerva Jane Jenkins was just 14 years old, she married a man who moved her to the mountains. He carried with him a small box, which he told her was filled with gold. And when he died 50 years later, he made her promise to keep his secret. She is to tell no one about the box or the treasure it contains.
Now 94, Minerva is nearing the end of what has sometimes been a lonely life. But she's kept that secret. Even so, rumors of hidden gold have a way of spreading, and Minerva is visited by a reporter, Del Rankin, who wants to know more of her story. His friend who joins him only wants to find the location of the gold. Neither of them knows quite who they're up against when it comes to the old woman on the mountain.
As an unlikely friendship develops, Minerva is tempted to reveal her secret to Del. After all, how long is one bound by a promise? But the truth of what's really buried in the box may be hidden even from her.
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