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B.J. Hoff, one of CBA's premier writers brings this riveting historical fiction series that meticulously depicts nineteenth century America. Prelude transports you to nineteenth-century New York and invites you to step into another time--a time that shaped a nation and defined her faith. This lively story carries you from immigrant ships to opulent estates, from skating-rink evangelistic crusades to star-studded concert halls, and introducing you to men and women you'll grow to love: a brooding blind musician, his suspicious but sympathetic sister-in-law, an unlikely pair of medical partners, and a struggling immigrant family. Pulsing with romance and intrigue, shining with artistry and faith, Prelude sounds the opening notes of a tale with a voice as big as America.… (more)
User reviews
This is at least the third time I've read Prelude by author BJ Hoff, Book One from one of my all-time favorite series, American Anthem. There's so much about this story of immigrants in nineteenth-century New York.
The emotion. The music! Touches of the supernatural, the divine. Hoff is an excellent writer.
Sure, the novel has its weaknesses. Too many italicized words to force the emphasis where the context would be sufficient to make it clear. A young character whose advanced language seems unrealistic at times, given that she's just turned four. A scene or two that goes around in circles instead of getting on with it, and a couple of aspects to the story that are over the top.
But, my goodness, the characters—particularly the supporting cast! It's the multiple perspectives and layers to the characters, poignant moments with this mix of people, that's done the most to make this read great and memorable to me.
I can't wait to revisit the rest of this historical ChristFic saga.