A Lady in Attendance by Rachel Fordham

A Lady in Attendance
by Rachel Fordham

ISBN-13: 9780800739737
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Fleming H. Revell
Released: June 1st 2021

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Five years in a New York state reformatory have left a blemish on Hazel's real name. So when she takes a job as Doctor Gilbert Watts's lady in attendance in 1898, she does so under an alias. In the presence of her quiet and pious employer, Hazel finds more than an income. She finds a friend and a hope that if she can set her tarnished past in order, she might have a future after all.

As Gilbert becomes accustomed to the pleasant chatter of his new dental assistant, he can't help but sense something secretive about her. Perhaps there is more to this woman than meets the eye. Can the questions that loom between them ever be answered? Or will the deeds of days gone by forever rob the future of its possibilities?


My Review:
A Lady in Attendance is a Christian romance set in 1898 in New York. Hazel grew up a spoiled, flirtatious young woman who made enemies because of her behavior. But when accused of a theft she didn't commit and sent to a state reformatory, she decided to practice gratitude rather than choosing resentment and bitterness. When released, she's humble, thoughtful, and hard-working while retaining her teasing sense of humor. Though intending to keep things strictly professional, she and Gilbert quickly became close friends. However, her past prevented her from having the full future that she longed for. She needed help to clear her name so that the shame cast on her and family would be removed. The mystery didn't take long to solve but was harder to prove.

Hazel and Gilbert supported, trusted, and brought out the best in each other. I cared about what happened to them and their friends. The historical details were worked into the story without slowing the pacing and created some of the conflict that had to be resolved. Hazel discovered how God can bring about good despite bad choices in the past and the evil in this world. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd highly recommend this enjoyable romance.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.