Status
Available
Call number
Collection
Call number
F GAB
Publication
Revell (2023), 352 pages
Description
"Jacci Reed loves her life on the Ohio River in 1896 as part of the Kingston showboat family, but shadows of her past and the death of her mother linger in her memory. With the help of the showboat owners' son, can she find answers before those shadows overtake her and threaten her life?"--
User reviews
LibraryThing member alekee
A read that really makes you realize that blood relatives are really not your only family.
Two mothers and the ultimate sacrifices that they make for their daughter, and as we see the events unfold, you will wonder if one can really stay away?
This is life on the river, life on a showboat, more like
We are given a lot of danger, and you will be guessing whom is the culprit, bringing danger to those we now care about, especially Jacci! We are also offered a bit of sweet romance, and a glimpse of life on the river.
I received this book through the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.
Two mothers and the ultimate sacrifices that they make for their daughter, and as we see the events unfold, you will wonder if one can really stay away?
This is life on the river, life on a showboat, more like
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family, they may be actors, but they take care of one another.We are given a lot of danger, and you will be guessing whom is the culprit, bringing danger to those we now care about, especially Jacci! We are also offered a bit of sweet romance, and a glimpse of life on the river.
I received this book through the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.
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LibraryThing member TABrowne
What an intriguing setting. I went into this not knowing much at all about the river showboats and what that environment was like.
There was a lot of backstory around her time when she was 5 which was interesting but the story is better after that as you get to the mystery and more of her life on
The romance was great but not the entire story and I think if you like historical fiction and don't really appreciate romance you will still enjoy this book.
I received an arc with the hope of an honest review.
There was a lot of backstory around her time when she was 5 which was interesting but the story is better after that as you get to the mystery and more of her life on
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the Kingston Floating Palace. The book goes quickly.The romance was great but not the entire story and I think if you like historical fiction and don't really appreciate romance you will still enjoy this book.
I received an arc with the hope of an honest review.
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LibraryThing member lamb521
Title: In the Shadow of the River
Author: Ann H. Gabhart
Pages: 343
Year: 2023
Publisher: Revell
My rating is 4 out of 5 stars.
The year is 1896. Jacinth “Jacci” Reed is a 20-year-old, young woman who has lived most of her life aboard a river showboat. She and her grandfather along with the rest of
Jacci’s past will be brought into her present life. As a 5-year-old child, she was subject to an attempted kidnapping that has left her with the burden of her actions that night. She also faces the hard work of performing a show night after night along with her grandfather who is beginning to forget his lines more and more. Gabe, who she has always thought of as a brother, suddenly takes on the possibility of becoming a romantic interest for Jacci. Each new season, after the river thaws, brings the cast together along with some new additions. Not everyone on the showboat is what he appears to be.
I thought the setting of the novel on a showboat was unique and the details of how the performers lived their lives interesting. History is always one of my favorite parts! There was a touch of mystery and romance here and there, and the ending was satisfying. I wanted to keep reading more about this lifestyle and these characters. Faith also appears in the story as it is matured in characters by refining them in the darkest moments, even when it seems prayers go unanswered.
Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility.
Author: Ann H. Gabhart
Pages: 343
Year: 2023
Publisher: Revell
My rating is 4 out of 5 stars.
The year is 1896. Jacinth “Jacci” Reed is a 20-year-old, young woman who has lived most of her life aboard a river showboat. She and her grandfather along with the rest of
Show More
the cast put on shows every night. Each night is at a different stop along the river. She loves her life, and the cast has become her family. She still misses her mother on occasion, but she has been gone for fifteen years now. Her father is a riverboat gambler who makes sporadic and infrequent appearances in her life.Jacci’s past will be brought into her present life. As a 5-year-old child, she was subject to an attempted kidnapping that has left her with the burden of her actions that night. She also faces the hard work of performing a show night after night along with her grandfather who is beginning to forget his lines more and more. Gabe, who she has always thought of as a brother, suddenly takes on the possibility of becoming a romantic interest for Jacci. Each new season, after the river thaws, brings the cast together along with some new additions. Not everyone on the showboat is what he appears to be.
I thought the setting of the novel on a showboat was unique and the details of how the performers lived their lives interesting. History is always one of my favorite parts! There was a touch of mystery and romance here and there, and the ending was satisfying. I wanted to keep reading more about this lifestyle and these characters. Faith also appears in the story as it is matured in characters by refining them in the darkest moments, even when it seems prayers go unanswered.
Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility.
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LibraryThing member misterehmuseseh
From the very outset, this novel is filled with intrigue and unanswered questions for young Jacci Reed. It’s also a real eye-opener to a segment of society that never crossed my mind before – that of the crew and actors on a Mississippi showboat. I found it definitely worth the reading and
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expect that all who open its covers will think so too. Characters are well developed and believable. Show Less
LibraryThing member milibrarian
Jacci loves travelling the rivers with the showboat, but she is haunted by events in her past, including her mother's death when she was five. Now 15 years later (1896), she is about to learn the truth about what happened and why, but her life may also be in danger. Will the showboat captain's son
Great characters and a fun read although the ending isn't a surprise. This book explores the themes of faith, family, and mercy; it is recommended for readers of inspirational historical romance.
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be able to protect her and convince her of his love?Great characters and a fun read although the ending isn't a surprise. This book explores the themes of faith, family, and mercy; it is recommended for readers of inspirational historical romance.
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LibraryThing member tealadytoo
This is a thoroughly enjoyable novel set on a river Showboat in the period just before the turn of the 20th century. The plot hangs on the secret of Jacci's parentage, and the mystery of what prompted the attack on her mother when Jacci was five years old, that led to them joining the Showboat. But
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
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the real appeal of the book, at least for me, was the description of life on the river with the entertainers, and the warmth and love of the Showboat family. It is definitely work reading for a warm and engaging journey.I received a copy of this book from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member Julie2013
In the Shadow of the River by Ann H. Gabhart - Review
Set sail with Jacci Reed on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers beginning in 1881 and then skipping ahead to 1896. Jacci was raised first on a Steam Boat, then on a Show Boat. Her entire life is a mystery, though her first realization of the fact
After a very dramatic exit from the Steam Boat her mother worked on as a maid, Jacci’s life revolves around the Kingston family’s “Floating Palace” show boat, where she is raised by her grandfather with help from the show boat family – the Kingstons and their various troupe members, which change somewhat over the years.
Who is Lisbeth? The shadowy figure Jacci only knows about by overhearing her name come up with her mother, father and grandfather at various times in her life. What part does she play in the danger Jacci finds herself in? Does she know what happened when Jacci was 5 and her mother, Irena Reed died after a man tried to kidnap Jacci. That night has haunted Jacci ever since and she wants, no needs, to know what happened and why.
This beautiful historical novel has a unique setting that is very much a part of the story. The river itself almost becomes a character. The other characters are unique and quirky and entirely enjoyable. “Duke” as Tyrone Chesser is lovingly referred to by his show boat family, is Jacci’s Grampus. His employers, Captain Dan and “Queen” Marelda Kingston, who take Jacci under their wing and ensure she has stability and love; their son Gabe, who insists he is NOT Jacci’s brother – he has loved her since she was a child. Add in a prayer warrior cook, a family of acrobats with quirky personalities, a ventriloquist and his two dummies, and an actor who thinks being on the show boat is beneath him, but he’ll use it as a tool to get on the big stage in a city, preferably New York and a senator whose focus is on becoming the next American president. All of them play a role in helping Jacci find out who she is – and why she is in danger, some because they want to help her, some because they want to get her out of their way for various reasons.
I was drawn in from page one and read it in one sitting. The faith elements were strong but natural, shining through the characters in a believable and realistic manner. The story itself had enough twists and turns to leave you unsure what Jacci needs to be on guard about – who is after her and why? And when it wraps up, you’re completely satisfied, maybe wanting a little more. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have already recommended it to several friends.
Set sail with Jacci Reed on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers beginning in 1881 and then skipping ahead to 1896. Jacci was raised first on a Steam Boat, then on a Show Boat. Her entire life is a mystery, though her first realization of the fact
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comes when she is 5 years old. After a very dramatic exit from the Steam Boat her mother worked on as a maid, Jacci’s life revolves around the Kingston family’s “Floating Palace” show boat, where she is raised by her grandfather with help from the show boat family – the Kingstons and their various troupe members, which change somewhat over the years.
Who is Lisbeth? The shadowy figure Jacci only knows about by overhearing her name come up with her mother, father and grandfather at various times in her life. What part does she play in the danger Jacci finds herself in? Does she know what happened when Jacci was 5 and her mother, Irena Reed died after a man tried to kidnap Jacci. That night has haunted Jacci ever since and she wants, no needs, to know what happened and why.
This beautiful historical novel has a unique setting that is very much a part of the story. The river itself almost becomes a character. The other characters are unique and quirky and entirely enjoyable. “Duke” as Tyrone Chesser is lovingly referred to by his show boat family, is Jacci’s Grampus. His employers, Captain Dan and “Queen” Marelda Kingston, who take Jacci under their wing and ensure she has stability and love; their son Gabe, who insists he is NOT Jacci’s brother – he has loved her since she was a child. Add in a prayer warrior cook, a family of acrobats with quirky personalities, a ventriloquist and his two dummies, and an actor who thinks being on the show boat is beneath him, but he’ll use it as a tool to get on the big stage in a city, preferably New York and a senator whose focus is on becoming the next American president. All of them play a role in helping Jacci find out who she is – and why she is in danger, some because they want to help her, some because they want to get her out of their way for various reasons.
I was drawn in from page one and read it in one sitting. The faith elements were strong but natural, shining through the characters in a believable and realistic manner. The story itself had enough twists and turns to leave you unsure what Jacci needs to be on guard about – who is after her and why? And when it wraps up, you’re completely satisfied, maybe wanting a little more. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have already recommended it to several friends.
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LibraryThing member amybooksy
In the Shadow of the River is yet another awesome book I have read by Ann H Gabhart. I loved getting to know Jacci and seeing through her eyes of what it was like to be on a nineteenth century showboat. It was sweet to see her and Gabe together. I thought her story of mystery and suspense was one
In the Shadow of the River will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical romance. As always I will be looking forward to more releases to come from Ann H Gabhart. I believe this one should not be missed.
I received a paperback copy of In the Shadow of the River from the author, but was not required to write a review, nor a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
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that kept me wanting to find out what were the past secrets to be revealed. I loved it. In the Shadow of the River will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical romance. As always I will be looking forward to more releases to come from Ann H Gabhart. I believe this one should not be missed.
I received a paperback copy of In the Shadow of the River from the author, but was not required to write a review, nor a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
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LibraryThing member claudia.castenir
Ann H. Gabhart has written a perfect mixture of historical fiction, mystery, and just a touch of romance. As always her characters are unique and memorable. There are those readers will love and root for, and those they will hope are foiled in their efforts. Jacci Reed's life has been filled with
I thoroughly enjoyed reading In the Shadow of the River. Ann H. Gabhart is one of those authors whose work I try never to pass up. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
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secrets since her birth; secrets that she had tried to put behind her as a young child always seemed to hover around the edges of her awareness. Now at the age of twenty those secrets have placed her in danger, with no way of knowing from which way the danger would arise. I thoroughly enjoyed reading In the Shadow of the River. Ann H. Gabhart is one of those authors whose work I try never to pass up. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
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LibraryThing member lamb521
Title: In the Shadow of the River
Author: Ann H. Gabhart
Pages: 343
Year: 2023
Publisher: Revell
My rating is 4 out of 5 stars.
The year is 1896. Jacinth “Jacci” Reed is a 20-year-old, young woman who has lived most of her life aboard a river showboat. She and her grandfather along with the rest of
Jacci’s past will be brought into her present life. As a 5-year-old child, she was subject to an attempted kidnapping that has left her with the burden of her actions that night. She also faces the hard work of performing a show night after night along with her grandfather who is beginning to forget his lines more and more. Gabe, who she has always thought of as a brother, suddenly takes on the possibility of becoming a romantic interest for Jacci. Each new season, after the river thaws, brings the cast together along with some new additions. Not everyone on the showboat is what he appears to be.
I thought the setting of the novel on a showboat was unique and the details of how the performers lived their lives interesting. History is always one of my favorite parts! There was a touch of mystery and romance here and there, and the ending was satisfying. I wanted to keep reading more about this lifestyle and these characters. Faith also appears in the story as it is matured in characters by refining them in the darkest moments, even when it seems prayers go unanswered.
Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility.
Author: Ann H. Gabhart
Pages: 343
Year: 2023
Publisher: Revell
My rating is 4 out of 5 stars.
The year is 1896. Jacinth “Jacci” Reed is a 20-year-old, young woman who has lived most of her life aboard a river showboat. She and her grandfather along with the rest of
Show More
the cast put on shows every night. Each night is at a different stop along the river. She loves her life, and the cast has become her family. She still misses her mother on occasion, but she has been gone for fifteen years now. Her father is a riverboat gambler who makes sporadic and infrequent appearances in her life.Jacci’s past will be brought into her present life. As a 5-year-old child, she was subject to an attempted kidnapping that has left her with the burden of her actions that night. She also faces the hard work of performing a show night after night along with her grandfather who is beginning to forget his lines more and more. Gabe, who she has always thought of as a brother, suddenly takes on the possibility of becoming a romantic interest for Jacci. Each new season, after the river thaws, brings the cast together along with some new additions. Not everyone on the showboat is what he appears to be.
I thought the setting of the novel on a showboat was unique and the details of how the performers lived their lives interesting. History is always one of my favorite parts! There was a touch of mystery and romance here and there, and the ending was satisfying. I wanted to keep reading more about this lifestyle and these characters. Faith also appears in the story as it is matured in characters by refining them in the darkest moments, even when it seems prayers go unanswered.
Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility.
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LibraryThing member Virginia51
I really loved this historical romance. I loved that there is a little underlying intrigue in the story. I loved Jacci and Gabe. I really enjoyed finding out some stuff about how a showboat was run and how many of the cast began to feel like family. I loved how Jacci grew up and finally learned
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about who she really was. I laughed and cried. I received a copy of this book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will. Show Less
LibraryThing member grammy57
I asked to read and review this book for several reasons. First, I enjoy books by this author, Ann H Gabhart. Second, I enjoy Christian fiction, especially historical fiction. Third, the novel setting intrigued me.
This story is part mystery, part history, and a little bit of love story. The book
If you like historical fiction that is clean without any vulgarity you will enjoy this book. I give it a strong 4 out of 5-star rating.
This story is part mystery, part history, and a little bit of love story. The book
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was well-developed though not deep. It was an easy read. It kept my interest throughout. It was also definitely a Christian book without being preachy or pushy. It showed that a true Christian draws closer to God when times get rough. This book also looks at what is really a family. The characters were quite well developed though not deep. I figured out the bad character easily but not the motives.If you like historical fiction that is clean without any vulgarity you will enjoy this book. I give it a strong 4 out of 5-star rating.
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LibraryThing member NancyLuebke
This comes out May 2023. I really enjoyed this clean romance, advanced reader copy of this book. I received this advanced reader for free and I've given it a 5* rating. This pulled me in with suspense and kept me reading late a couple of nights. This author wowed me a few times including the
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ending, wile it wrapped up a lot of loose ends and answered lots of questions. There were a lot of feels too, you might need a hanky or two. Don't know that I would want to live on a riverboat though. Show Less
LibraryThing member eccl
In the Shadow of the River is a stand alone story written by Ann H. Gabhart. The dual timeline story takes place on a showboat in 1881 and the 1890’s. Jacci’s mother was fatally injured when Jacci was just five years old. They fled the steamboat her mother worked on to go to her grandfather on
This was an enjoyable story in the sense the reader sees how the family connects and supports each other when they are called to do so. It also has several parts that show God’s hand in their lives. Jacci’s grandfather’s boat just happened to be next to them when danger appeared. The wife of the showboat owner was so generous and helpful supporting Jacci and her grandfather. The story also shows what could happen when secrets are kept. I especially enjoyed the suspense and mystery and was surprised by the romance. I have read many of the author’s books, this one felt a little different and was slower paced than others.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book, this is my honest opinion
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the showboat parked next to them. Her mother and grandfather have not been close but when tragedy strikes he is the one her mother seeks help from. And he steps up to do as she asked.This was an enjoyable story in the sense the reader sees how the family connects and supports each other when they are called to do so. It also has several parts that show God’s hand in their lives. Jacci’s grandfather’s boat just happened to be next to them when danger appeared. The wife of the showboat owner was so generous and helpful supporting Jacci and her grandfather. The story also shows what could happen when secrets are kept. I especially enjoyed the suspense and mystery and was surprised by the romance. I have read many of the author’s books, this one felt a little different and was slower paced than others.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book, this is my honest opinion
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LibraryThing member Maret-G
My second book by this author and again another very emotional and heartbreaking story.
Only five years old Jacci Reed shot a man who stabbed her mother. He claimed that she didn’t belong to her mother. Jacci was raised on the showboat where her mother brought them shortly before she died asking
An incredibly bumpy and heart wrenching story that takes place on a beautiful scenery of the river with great developed characters from the showboat. When I finished the book, I realized that I had read a really good book full of mystery, suspense and romance.
Only five years old Jacci Reed shot a man who stabbed her mother. He claimed that she didn’t belong to her mother. Jacci was raised on the showboat where her mother brought them shortly before she died asking
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her grandfather to care for her. Jacci performed on the showboat together with her grandfather. Years after, Jacci is learning about a plan that was arranged to protect her. Mother who raised her was not her birth mother and all arrangements and secrets were done to protect illegitimate child. Why was she in hiding? Who was against her and why? Was it time to know the truth now?An incredibly bumpy and heart wrenching story that takes place on a beautiful scenery of the river with great developed characters from the showboat. When I finished the book, I realized that I had read a really good book full of mystery, suspense and romance.
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LibraryThing member lifeofliterature
I enjoyed the setting of this novel and found the history of the showboats and the entertainment provided along the Ohio River to be very fascinating. I thought the author did a great job researching the history of the book. I also enjoyed the mysterious twists in the novel and was as curious as
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
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Jacci to find answers, even if parts of the novel were predictable. The entertaining and quirky characters on the showboat were the perfect antithesis to the more serious mystery. I also liked the romance as one of my favorite tropes is friends to lovers. I really liked the story and found the novel easy to read. A recommended book to those who enjoy historical fiction!I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
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LibraryThing member NadineC.Keels
It was getting several glimpses of this historical novel's lovely cover that urged me to try out this ChristFic author for the first time. I was drawn in by the visual blend of the theater auditorium, the showboat, and the river.
After I started reading, the river's atmosphere mixed with the theme
In more than one scene, the story's danger felt contrived to me. Jacci walks right into hazardous situations, regardless of the fact that clear forewarnings precede her each time. It seems that with her having firsthand experience of life-and-death peril in the past, with the ominous memory of it remaining with her long afterward, Jacci would know to take some sensible precautions when related danger becomes apparent again. More than once.
Depending on their personal beliefs, some ChristFic readers may be uncomfortable with the way Jacci inwardly asks a deceased person to watch over her. As for the romance, I didn't find the romantic characters compelling. Overall, this was a novel where, while the characters in general didn't grip me as people, the events in their lives kept me reading.
On the whole, I enjoyed the read enough to plan on trying this author again sometime.
Revell provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
After I started reading, the river's atmosphere mixed with the theme
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of old-fashioned show business pulled this diehard historical fiction fan into the story, gradually. Now, it wasn't exactly so gradual that I lost all interest at any point, but the novel felt longer to me than it had to be. Until around 100 pages in, Jacci is still five, while her mother Irena's trouble with an injury stretches out for most of that time. Irena has little to do then but sit and go over the past, and in different key scenes later on, other characters spend more time rehashing those past events the reader already knows about.In more than one scene, the story's danger felt contrived to me. Jacci walks right into hazardous situations, regardless of the fact that clear forewarnings precede her each time. It seems that with her having firsthand experience of life-and-death peril in the past, with the ominous memory of it remaining with her long afterward, Jacci would know to take some sensible precautions when related danger becomes apparent again. More than once.
Depending on their personal beliefs, some ChristFic readers may be uncomfortable with the way Jacci inwardly asks a deceased person to watch over her. As for the romance, I didn't find the romantic characters compelling. Overall, this was a novel where, while the characters in general didn't grip me as people, the events in their lives kept me reading.
On the whole, I enjoyed the read enough to plan on trying this author again sometime.
Revell provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member Simmmba
"In the Shadow of the River" by Ann H. Gabhart is an excellent example of Christian historical fiction. I particularly enjoyed the timeframe and setting (1881, on a showboat traveling Southern US rivers). It was fascinating to read about life aboard a floating entertainment venue. The author shared
All of the main characters were distinct and very clearly drawn. I enjoyed watching main character Jacci as both a five-year-old and as a young adult. The character of her grandfather (Grampus Duke) was also excellent, and I liked watching how he came to care for and truly love Jacci. Other characters, including Gabe, Cameron, and Winnie, were also unique, and each added something special and integral to the story.
There was something of a mystery element to this book as well, as Jacci tried to figure out what was behind the tragedy of her childhood and get answers to questions she had about her past. This culminates in some exciting drama near the end of the story. I liked observing Jacci as she gleaned information from different sources until she was finally able to put together the whole picture and feel like she truly understood her past.
For the romantics out there, there's also a bit of a love story. While it's definitely not the central focus of the book, it does reach a logical conclusion by the end.
Definitely 5 delectable chunks of creamy Gorgonzola!
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a great deal about what that life would have been like, and I felt that I learned some things I hadn't thought about before.All of the main characters were distinct and very clearly drawn. I enjoyed watching main character Jacci as both a five-year-old and as a young adult. The character of her grandfather (Grampus Duke) was also excellent, and I liked watching how he came to care for and truly love Jacci. Other characters, including Gabe, Cameron, and Winnie, were also unique, and each added something special and integral to the story.
There was something of a mystery element to this book as well, as Jacci tried to figure out what was behind the tragedy of her childhood and get answers to questions she had about her past. This culminates in some exciting drama near the end of the story. I liked observing Jacci as she gleaned information from different sources until she was finally able to put together the whole picture and feel like she truly understood her past.
For the romantics out there, there's also a bit of a love story. While it's definitely not the central focus of the book, it does reach a logical conclusion by the end.
Definitely 5 delectable chunks of creamy Gorgonzola!
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LibraryThing member Becky_L
“Sometimes we have no choice but to play the roles we’re given.” Is this the truth, as Jacci’s mom and Grandfather reiterate, or can we choose our attitudes and know God is guiding us?
So many books, so little space in my house. So, I am very picky about which authors I love enough to buy
In the Shadow of the River is no exception. In 1881, Young Jacci Reed watches her mother die an agonizing death, taking to her grave secrets of Jacci’s past. Jacci joins her grandfather, the “Duke, ” on a showboat, and learns to love the life of a showboat actress.
But secrets and memories have a way of resurfacing, no matter how deep they are buried. The question becomes, who knows the answers, and will they again attack Jacci and cause her to disappear? Or, can Jacci, her grandfather and her showboat family foil the attempts on her life and return to their happy, close-knit family relationship? Especially when there are those in the “family” without loyalty and love that tie a family together.
I love Ann H Gabhart’s uncomplicated style. Yet the relationships she creates have plenty of conflict and turmoil to work out. There are characters to love, and characters you will wish you could fire off the showboat or refuse entrance to a show.
I love the way faith is so integral to the characters’ existence. Some regretted their lack of faith, like Jacci. ”Perhaps that was her biggest wrong. Fearing to surrender it all to the Lord.”
Other times, they understood that God has three ways of answering prayers: yes, no, and wait. He’s not a slot machine or a genie. “I guess miracles aren’t up for the ordering just because we want one.”
Notable Quotables:
“We’re on the river. We’ll abide by river law.” “What is that?” “Taking care of our people. Doing what we do best. Putting on shows.”
“Love can get in the way of good sense.”
“Beauty can have its advantages, but your mother is right. Right living is more than skin deep.”
I received a complimentary ebook from RevellReads via NetGalley. I also bought my own paperback copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
So many books, so little space in my house. So, I am very picky about which authors I love enough to buy
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paperback versions ( typically in addition to ebooks). Ann H Gabhart has added another physical book to her section of my shelves with In the Shadow of the River. Truly, I buy first, knowing I will fall in love with whatever story Ms. Gabhart is telling.In the Shadow of the River is no exception. In 1881, Young Jacci Reed watches her mother die an agonizing death, taking to her grave secrets of Jacci’s past. Jacci joins her grandfather, the “Duke, ” on a showboat, and learns to love the life of a showboat actress.
But secrets and memories have a way of resurfacing, no matter how deep they are buried. The question becomes, who knows the answers, and will they again attack Jacci and cause her to disappear? Or, can Jacci, her grandfather and her showboat family foil the attempts on her life and return to their happy, close-knit family relationship? Especially when there are those in the “family” without loyalty and love that tie a family together.
I love Ann H Gabhart’s uncomplicated style. Yet the relationships she creates have plenty of conflict and turmoil to work out. There are characters to love, and characters you will wish you could fire off the showboat or refuse entrance to a show.
I love the way faith is so integral to the characters’ existence. Some regretted their lack of faith, like Jacci. ”Perhaps that was her biggest wrong. Fearing to surrender it all to the Lord.”
Other times, they understood that God has three ways of answering prayers: yes, no, and wait. He’s not a slot machine or a genie. “I guess miracles aren’t up for the ordering just because we want one.”
Notable Quotables:
“We’re on the river. We’ll abide by river law.” “What is that?” “Taking care of our people. Doing what we do best. Putting on shows.”
“Love can get in the way of good sense.”
“Beauty can have its advantages, but your mother is right. Right living is more than skin deep.”
I received a complimentary ebook from RevellReads via NetGalley. I also bought my own paperback copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
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LibraryThing member Mizroady
To say this is a riveting story is to put it mildly! It grabs your attention from the very first page and moves you along just like the flowing river. An act of unprovoked violence changes 5 year old Jacci Reed’s life forever. As a child she is grieving and overwhelmed by the death of her mother.
The story fast forwards to 15 years later where she has grown into a young woman and the star of the Palace. Jacci is as sweet and innocent as she is beautiful. Her life is content and happy. She has wondered about her past but no one will tell her the truth. Circumstances come about and the secrets of her past can no longer be kept. Her life is even in danger.
This was a fantastic story in many ways. Learning about life on a showboat in the 1800’s was so interesting. The day in and day out commitment of performers living out their lives on a floating home intrigued me. I assumed there would be a great deal of boredom but I learned about their peace and contentment. I was touched by the closeness of the performers and crew members. They every bit family although most were not blood related. Their warmth and devotion to one another made me feel a sense of belonging.
One of my favorite characters was Aunt Tildy, the elderly black cook on the boat. She kept everyone in line and was no nonsense but very loving and tender hearted. I enjoyed the many nuggets of wisdom she shared and her strong faith in God. The special treats she fixed for everyone after a show created such a family atmosphere.
I loved the suspense and mystery and especially the surprise ending! This story is filled with faith, forgiveness, loyalty and finding unexpected love. As I write this review I can picture myself standing on the deck of the boat, watching the river flow by and even going to sleep the rocking of the boat.
I received this book from Revell Publishing in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated are my own.
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Her father comes and goes out of her life unpredictably so he cannot take her. She is left in the care of her grandfather, Duke, who had rarely been involved in her life. He was an actor on the Kingston Floating Palace showboat. The story fast forwards to 15 years later where she has grown into a young woman and the star of the Palace. Jacci is as sweet and innocent as she is beautiful. Her life is content and happy. She has wondered about her past but no one will tell her the truth. Circumstances come about and the secrets of her past can no longer be kept. Her life is even in danger.
This was a fantastic story in many ways. Learning about life on a showboat in the 1800’s was so interesting. The day in and day out commitment of performers living out their lives on a floating home intrigued me. I assumed there would be a great deal of boredom but I learned about their peace and contentment. I was touched by the closeness of the performers and crew members. They every bit family although most were not blood related. Their warmth and devotion to one another made me feel a sense of belonging.
One of my favorite characters was Aunt Tildy, the elderly black cook on the boat. She kept everyone in line and was no nonsense but very loving and tender hearted. I enjoyed the many nuggets of wisdom she shared and her strong faith in God. The special treats she fixed for everyone after a show created such a family atmosphere.
I loved the suspense and mystery and especially the surprise ending! This story is filled with faith, forgiveness, loyalty and finding unexpected love. As I write this review I can picture myself standing on the deck of the boat, watching the river flow by and even going to sleep the rocking of the boat.
I received this book from Revell Publishing in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated are my own.
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LibraryThing member Anne_Rightler
Having enjoyed other books by Ann Gabhart, I was eager to read In the Shadow of the River and was not disappointed in this historical fiction story. Set in the late 1800s, readers are given a glimpse of life on an Ohio River showboat. The author skillfully tells of the constant travel and dangers,
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and realistically portrays how the show actors and crew become family and care for and watch out for each other. Readers who enjoy stories with mystery, revenge, long-time secrets, tension that will have you holding your breath, and a sweet romance will not want to miss reading this book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author. I read a complimentary copy of the book from LibraryThing and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are my own. Show Less
LibraryThing member Leann
This book was a bit of a comfort read for me. I loved thinking about places that I knew as a child and reading about the culture of the Mississippi riverboats and people who lived their lives performing for others. It is a story of great adventure and excitement throughout. There is danger and
I received a copy of the book free of charge from the publisher. I was not asked to give a positive review but was only asked to give my honest opinion
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intrigue along with some unexpected villains and heroes. It is a beautiful story about family and friends who take care of one another and live life together on the riverboat. There is some love story along the way, too. Gabhart is not one to dwell wholly on the romance. She tells a beautifully well rounded story. I really enjoyed my time on the Mississippi River with the characters. If you are looking for a great summer read this just might be the ticket to your next adventure.I received a copy of the book free of charge from the publisher. I was not asked to give a positive review but was only asked to give my honest opinion
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LibraryThing member TheQuietReader
Five-year-old Jacci Reed survives a kidnapping attempt, but loses her mother as a result. Her new home becomes the Kingston Floating Palace showboat with her performer grandfather. As the years pass, Jacci becomes an actress among the showboat’s close-knit family of performers, cherishing her
The setting of this story is what caught my attention: a showboat. I have been fascinated by the concept for a long time. It seemed the perfect setting for a drama, and the main character of this book certainly provides that. Jacci has questions about her past, and it isn't until danger appears once again that she finally learns the truth.
My biggest complaint was with the structure of the book. The first quarter is set when Jacci is four years old. There is a lot of back and forth that is difficult to keep track of. It was hard to pick the book back up and know where in time I was starting. It's taken me quite awhile to get through the whole book because I kept having to start over.
Overall, it was an interesting read. The romance was sweet. The mystery wasn't really a mystery. At least, I guessed the ending early on.
Readers of historical romance will no doubt enjoy this one. I receieved an ARC through LibraryThing's Review program.
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relationship with Gabe and her grandfather. However, the mystery of her mother's tragic past haunts her. When an attempt is made on her life, Jacci is determined to uncover the truth. But as she delves into the secrets of her past, she realizes that the answers she seeks may not come easily, and time is of the essence for her and Gabe's future together.The setting of this story is what caught my attention: a showboat. I have been fascinated by the concept for a long time. It seemed the perfect setting for a drama, and the main character of this book certainly provides that. Jacci has questions about her past, and it isn't until danger appears once again that she finally learns the truth.
My biggest complaint was with the structure of the book. The first quarter is set when Jacci is four years old. There is a lot of back and forth that is difficult to keep track of. It was hard to pick the book back up and know where in time I was starting. It's taken me quite awhile to get through the whole book because I kept having to start over.
Overall, it was an interesting read. The romance was sweet. The mystery wasn't really a mystery. At least, I guessed the ending early on.
Readers of historical romance will no doubt enjoy this one. I receieved an ARC through LibraryThing's Review program.
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LibraryThing member Kristyn44
I really liked this historical fiction novel. It had some great action, a bit of romance, and a great adventure. The setting was different as most of the story took place on a riverboat and I really enjoyed that aspect of the book! It was a clean romance and quite sweet.
LibraryThing member medwards429
Gabhart never disappoints. Historical story, romance, and even a mystery set aboard a riverboat.
Language
Physical description
352 p.; 8.5 inches
Pages
352
ISBN
0800741722 / 9780800741723