Going to the Chapel

This tale takes place in 1888 Seattle, Washington, and revolves around a bridal school run by three elderly women.  The story centers on young, wealthy Lenore; her best friend, Abrianna, who was raised in the bridal school; Kolbein, a lawyer from Chicago looking for his run away sister; along with Wade, a handyman and childhood friend of Abrianna.

Lenore is desperate to procure a husband.  Her father has given her a short time period to find love on her own. If she doesn’t, he will marry her off to a man twice her age.  Abrianna constantly runs against the convention of the day, as well as, her three aunts, by ministering alone to the poor and destitute in the most dangerous parts of town.  Kolbein’s path cross these two women’s when he arrives in Seattle attempting to track down his missing sister.  Wade spends a good deal of time trying to protect Abrianna, and helping her aunts.

There is a lot going on in this tale.  The Christian perspective in the book is strong and very well done.  I liked the story-line about a bridal school that is partially a finishing school, and partially a match making service.  The aunts who run it are interesting characters whose foibles add humor to the tale.

The story’s main character seems to start out as Lenore, but then switches to Abrianna, who is a lot more interesting.  But switching from one character to another is confusing for the reader.  There were also lots of side stories including a very shady man, drug dealing, human trafficking and some unsolved murders.

The author writes very well.  But I did not like the story’s abrupt ending.  There were too many story lines that were started that did not have conclusions.  So instead of being a tale that can stand on its own, it feels very much like part of a series that needs the rest of the books to get a satisfactory ending.  I would still recommend this work because of the author’s writing skill.  There are enjoyable parts, and some of the loose ends are tied up in this volume.  Just be aware you will finish it wanting the next book in the series.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Bethany House Publishing for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

Author’s Website:  www.traciepeterson.com

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/TraciePetersonAuthor?ref=ts

Author’s Information:  http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/authors/tracie-peterson/688