Rumors And Promises - American Historical Fiction

By Kathleen Rouser

Description:

Sophie Biddle, an heiress on the run with a child in tow, considers herself abandoned by her family and God. Wary, self-reliant Sophie is caught off guard when meeting a kind, but meddling and handsome minister at the local mercantile. In 1900, Reverend Ian McCormick is determined to start anew in Stone Creek, Michigan, believing he has failed God and his former flock. He works harder than ever to forget his mistake, hoping to prove himself a most pleasing servant to his new congregation and once again to God. While Sophie seeks acceptance for the child and a measure of respect for herself, the rumors swirl about her sordid past. Should Ian show concern for Sophie plight, he could risk everything - including his position as pastor of Stone Creek. Now the pair must choose to trust God and forgive those who slander and gossip, or run. Will the scandals of their pasts bind them together forever, or drive both deeper into despair?

Book Takeaway:

God can give anyone a new life in Christ, despite their past. He is the one Who freed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and causes the old to pass away, giving freedom to His children!

Why the author wrote this book:

I originally wanted to write a story about Jesus and the woman at the well. But what if a young woman
is ostracized for an act not of her own will? I wanted to examine the issues facing unwed mothers at the turn of the century, especially in the case of sexual assault, in 1900. Who would have the most to lose by putting his reputations on the line? Probably the local pastor! So Rumors and Promises was born, along with Sophie and Ian, two young people haunted by secrets of their pasts and in need of God's healing touch.