Monday, May 5, 2025

THE ANGEL OF SECOND STREET by Barbara Tifft Blakey, Reviewed by Trixi and Rebecca #NewRelease

 
Enduring Hope Book 1
TRIXI'S REVIEW:
I'm not sure how to review this book. On one hand, I found it refreshing that Ida has a passion for reaching out to prostitutes on second street and presenting the hope and love Jesus has for them. As well as Chinese immigrants—especially their cook Qui—in her hometown of Eureka California in 1884. On the other hand, her methods of going about it shows she lacks the maturity or common sense a young lady of her standing should. 
 
With no idea of the level of danger going into areas of Chinatown or the red light district unaccompanied poses, she puts herself in precarious situations seemingly without thought as to what could happen. I feared for her character on more than one occasion and the position she often put herself in. However, I do admire how Blaine helps her find ways to fulfill her desire to reach out to the lost and lessen the dangers surrounding her impulsive nature. It seems these two work well together in spite of resistance from their families.

Overall, it's a good book and the intent of the heart of both Ida and Blaine is admirable. It made me ponder ways in which I can reach the lost in my own life; whether it be unsaved coworkers, family members or those whom I deal with in everyday life. To have the same passion and drive to want to preach Jesus is what I want more than anything. It gave me much to think about!

That being said, I'm not sure this book was for me. The story was well-paced, well-written, engaging and left me pondering my own walk with Christ. I think because of Ida's immaturity and impulsive ways, it was quite off-putting. I do realize she was only 17—and sometimes young people of this age bracket don't always think things through—but with her genteel upbringing and time period in history, I feel she would have been a bit more mature in her decisions. Lastly, the story ended much too abruptly and left me with more questions than answers. I did enjoy reading the Author's Note at the end of the book explaining much of the historical tidbits included in the book.

I hope as a reader you come to your own conclusion about this story, it might be just the perfect book for you!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review *3.5 stars

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"God had opened the eyes of her heart, and everywhere Ida looked she saw hurting people."

It was her calling. Ida Dempsey, in spite of her privileged upbringing, wanted to share the love of Jesus with those in her community who were living on the fringes, considered by most as the "least of these". Her methodology was a little flawed at times (admittedly quite flawed according to societal standards), and marriage was not her immediate priority until . . . one summer afternoon she caught the attention of Blaine Prescott . . . "there had been that moment, that incredible moment, when their eyes met and he felt she was the one, the only one ever, for him". . . Rather bold, wouldn't you say?

This story progresses with a certain relaxed intensity, as one hurdle after another is thrown in front of this young couple who long to become better acquainted; joining not only their hands but also their hearts as they endeavor to serve those have been ignored and despised. Readers will love the subtle twists and turns, as well as a few monumental revelations, all while steeped in significant historical events within Eureka, California during the mid-1880's.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book for Barbour Publishing. The opinions stated above are entirely my own. 3.5 stars 
 

BackCover Blurb:
How Can Compassion be Considered Wrong?

When life is weighed down by challenges, pillars of enduring hope and love are always waiting to be discovered.

Ida Dempsey has grown up in a privileged life of luxury thanks to her aunt and uncle. Although Second Street—where women of ill repute ply their wares—is off limits to respectable citizens, her heart of compassion compels her to frequent the area, hoping to make a difference in their lives. Ida has also befriended Qui Shau, a Chinese woman who keeps house for her family, but friendships between the whites and Chinese are taboo in Eureka. Ida tries to keep secret her forbidden compassion, but someone is watching and will use it against her.

When Blaine Prescott meets Ida at a church picnic, his parents warn him away from any relationship with the young lady who has been seen on Second Street in the company of a Chinese woman. But how could such a kindhearted, lovely young woman be anything but good? But when riots break out in Chinatown and Ida disappears, Blaine will do anything to find out where and why she has gone.

Other books in the
Enduring Hope series include:
The Undercover Heiress of Brockton by Kelly Goshorn 

Barbour Publishing, May, 2025
Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:
 
 

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