I have come to realize that without the church, our community does not heed the authority of God but replaces with their own authority.

I have enjoyed this series very much. The history of Nantucket and the fictional characters mixed in with historical characters it brought to "light" how faith, family and community have overcome hardships and victories. The focus is on twins Henry Macy and his sister Hitty. Henry has been given Great Mary's journal by Daphene, his step-mother/and aunt. The journal is legacy of their family and all that they have overcome and continue to overcome. With the passing of Hitty and Henry's grandmother Lillian, they are left with a large inheritance with conditions. This is very surprising since they did not have the best relationship with their grandmother but maybe this inheritance is a way for her control her family from the grave. The twins take the conditions of the inheritance to do good for their community of Nantucket. Both Hitty and Henry also have to be married by a certain time and this creates more stress. Hitty is torn between two men that are both contrasting in nature. Benjamin Foulger a lawyer who is helping with the vast fortune of her grandmother and Isaac Barnard a widower with a young daughter. The common thread with these two men is one is underestimated and the other is overestimated. The contrast between the two is the battle of the human spirit that we all can relate to.

Henry too is torn between two women. One that he grew up with - Anna Gardner, an upcoming activist who brought in Franklin Douglas to speak at a rally in the horrors of slavery. Anna grew up in family that gave refuge to runaway slaves and wanted others to know the evils of slavery. Both Anna and Henry wanted the same things and were attracted to each other because of that. With Benjamin Foulger coming to help, he brought his assistant Mary who befriended Hitty and always seem to know the right thing to say to Henry. It was interesting how these relationships progressed and came to fruition.

With the journal to guide Henry in many difficult decisions for his family, he came to realize that greed destroys and community builds. And with that knowledge, an understanding of what really matters will be the same for generations to come. God, family and community.

A special thank you to Revell and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

Is the Nantucket Legacy Worth the Time to Read?
Dumb question, right? Anyone who has read any book by Suzanne Woods Fisher knows that her books are always worth the time to read.

But this series holds something that few others do. Among the pages of these books, you find characters who creep into your heart and build a home there. Like friends and family, you sometimes want to hug them and others wish to shake them.

The settings begin to feel familiar—as if you know which way to turn as you walk down the street. Sometimes, I’m convinced that if I needed one of the series’ famed “pieces of eight,” I could find that tree with no problem. I’d dig, just like Great Mary Coffin did.

It won’t be a popular thing to mention, but I’m going to. One of the things I loved and respected most was that the human rights issues addressed in these books held a strong authenticity that most historical novels do not. The Quaker roots of the people in the series make those human rights attitudes realistic—believable.

Yeah. I’m going to say it.
Too often, modern sensibilities are thrust into historical fiction without regard for the plausibility of it. It’s as if every author thinks they’re the only person making an “unusual” character by giving that person modern ideas regarding “rights” whether racial, gender, or otherwise. Yeah. It’s not believable and irritating.

Because you see, when we rewrite history to make people hold ideals they didn’t, when we sanitize the past with the disinfectant of today’s values, we lose the ability to learn and grow. The few people who really did stand out, no longer do. And the people who were otherwise fine, upstanding, life-changing people in every other way either look too perfect or are ignored because they are insufficiently modern in their ideals.

Suzanne Woods Fisher chose to address the topics she did in a beautiful way—by using what was authentic in a specific group and showing how that played out. And I thank her for it.

Should this series be read? Definitely.
Should it be finished? Absolutely.

When? Well, sooner than later, I always say. I look forward to what she delights us with next.

The Light Before Day is one story that will have you wanting more of historical fiction. A story of love and redemption will have you in awe of this story

I’m not sure when I have so thoroughly enjoyed a trilogy! Not only is The Light Before Day, the third book in the “Nantuckett Legacy” series, a wonderful historical tale; but it is so relevant today. Suzanne Woods Fisher tackles important themes like segregation, integrity in journalism, valuing women and minorities, and what living out faith day to day looks like.

I literally would be engrossed in the story and then momentarily be transported back to present day thinking about how relevant the themes were. I fell in love with the characters and was highly invested in the outcome of their stories. Beyond that I learned a great deal about Nantucket, the Quakers, and so appreciate Fisher’s attention-to-detail and commitment to accuracy.

The third book in the series was a beautiful combination of the story. Phoebe’s Light, Minding the Light, and now The Light Before Day are not like anything I have ever read before. The story jumps between time periods, while reading great Mary’s Journal and also the “present day” story, you get to know generations of families that were the founders and current residents of Nantucket. While this may be familiar to some I haven’t encountered it often in my reading. I certainly have not seen it done so well. It’s amazing to watch the two story lines parallel each other, give the reader insights into characters and family lines, reveal minut details that pertain to both stories, and so significantly demonstrate the value of knowing our own history. Fisher has to be a master of story to balance both, have the complete picture in mind when weeding all three stories, and ties them together seamlessly. I would highly suggest starting with book one, Phoebe’s Light, if you are just now finding out about the series!

With bated breath, I've looked forward to reading this next book in this series. I can't recommend this series enough. It's relevant and timely messages minister to my spirit while filling my mind with yet another engaging and memorable story. Henry and Hitty have some amazing stuff to cope with. The terms of Grandmother Lillian's will simply have to be read. Special features of this book include more than one point of view, two timelines, faith, suspense, fear, hope, rules, grace, and some deep introspection into what "treasure" really is.

This was a great ending to the series. Love the setting, love historical fiction. Love everything by Suzanne Woods Fisher!

Suzanne Woods Fisher concludes her splendid Nantucket Legacy series with The Light Before Day. Fans of the series, plus readers who enjoy historical fiction, are sure to enjoy this third venture into Nantucket history.

Henry and Hitty Macy, who have grown up since Minding the Light, must deal with their late grandmother’s requests in order to claim the inheritance she left for them. As their story progresses, journal entries from Mary Coffin Starbuck (known from the previous two books) continue to add depth and character to the series. The combined story is oh so enjoyable to read, captivating and historical, which kept me turning page after page quickly.

Though it’s the third book in the series, The Light Before Day can be read on its own. Still, the entire series is good, so if you haven’t already, start reading at the beginning. I recommend it.

I'm sorry to see this series end. Such a lot of history regarding Nantucket and the inhabitants--readers will see right away the immense amount of research the author has done to give this series credibility. This third book in Nantucket Legacy series deals with the twins Henry and Mehitabel (Hitty) Macy and the sizable inheritance from their manipulative grandmother that had several stringent stipulations for them to realize the bequest or it forfeits to a ruthless relative. The author has given her readers a wonderful story filled with vibrant characters and in the end, reminds readers what is really important is not the wealth that is passed down but the beliefs regarding faith, family, and community. One is never disappointed in reading Ms. Fisher's books and I look forward to reading more of her work.

Henry and Hitty have inherited their grandmother's vast fortune with a few hitches. They must live in her monstrosity of a house and marry a Quaker in good standing within six years. If they do not meet these requests conniving Tristam Macy will inherit all with no conditions. How will Henry and Hitty handle their grandmother's request and what will they learn of themselves in the process?

I have absolutely loved this series. I found my love of Nantucket through a couple of other writers and it is on my bucket list to visit someday. I jumped at the chance to learn about the early days of Nantucket. Suzanne has taken the time to research and include true occurrences in this trilogy. My favorite is the third book. I know some readers felt the author rushed the ending and left a few things unfinished but isn't that how life is? Not everything is tied up in a neat little bow. I also want to dream that she might have left it open to revisiting someday.

The trilogy is written in old English with "thee" and "thy" used very frequently. Once you get used to that you will find yourself falling into the story and not realizing the language difference. For this alone, I would say it is more appropriate for a mature audience. There is no sex or obscene language in the books.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Revell through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.

I enjoyed Hitty and Henry's stories. The plot seemed to move along a bit slow for me but with enough mystery to keep me going. The history of Nantucket was fascinating and it was a good conclusion to the series.

Readers, be ready to be transported back to Nantucket in the latest in this wonderful series by Suzanne Woods Fisher. You will truly feel as if you are right there next to Henry and Hitty. Suzanne Woods Fisher is able to write in a way that juts really makes you feel a part of the story, not just a reader. Every time I read one of her books I am even more amazed at her ability to do this. I have enjoyed her Amish stories for years, but I really think she has made her mark in the historical fiction world! Here's the thing - she writes as if she lived in the time period, which obviously is impossible, but that's how plausible and believable it is. Not just in the way the characters speak, but in the way she tells the story. I cannot imagine the hours of research she did in preparing to write this book. And bravo to her for making it true to the time period.

Yes, the characters are wonderful. Yes, the story line is interesting, and you want to read into all hours of the night. But the true thing that hits me with this series is being brought back in time. If for no other reason, read it for that. If you've ever wanted to jump in a time machine, now is your chance. I know all good things must come to an end, but this is one series that I hope is around for a while more. I'm not ready to give up my time hopping just yet!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Light Before Day is the third book in the Nantucket Legacy, and what an enthralling read. In this third story we have the twins, Hetty and Henry all grown up and left with their grandmother’s inheritance. As they were not treated well by her in life, neither one wanted the inheritance especially with the stringent strings attached. Their grandmother seemed to want to have the last say even in death.
This just might be my favorite of the three stories. Taking place over a period of six years and divided into two parts, Hetty and Henry have finally grown up and are starting to find their place in life, especially on the island. Now if only both of their love lives would work out. I was on pins and needles to see just how this story was going to end. Author Fisher kept me guessing till the very end about what was really going on behind some of the scenes and she kept readers in the dark about whom Hetty was eventually going to end up. It was so hard not to sneak a peek at the end, but I was a good girl and did not and I enjoyed the story all the more for it.
I really enjoyed this series and reading about the Quakers on Nantucket Island and their unusual ways. I enjoyed the true and false section the author included in the back of this story about what was true in her story and what wasn’t. I never realized Nantucket could be so interesting.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

The saga continues! Siblings Hetty and Henry love their home on Nantucket, but it all goes topsy turvy when their stern grandmother leaves them her fortune upon her passing – with stipulations, of course.

It was fun to read about how Henry and Hitty wanted to spend their inheritance – and eye opening to watch progress create division among the islanders. I also enjoyed watching that progress – from muddy paths to cobblestone streets, from no safety protocols to lightships and fire supplies. As usual for the Nantucket Legacy books in this series, I learned a few things about the Quaker religion, and how non-Quakers were drawn in to the light and spirituality they saw in the Friends.

My favorite parts of the book were the tender moments between couples who didn’t even consider themselves couples – but as the reader I could see the love between them.

Engaging and entertaining historical fiction, with comedy, tragedy, and a happily ever after.

https://randombookmuses.com/2018/11/22/review-the-light-before-day-by-suzanne-woods-fisher

Will they make the right decision...?

I have to confess that Nantucket Island is not a place that I have ever given much thought to. But as I've read the Nantucket Legacy series I've found myself enjoying the story and fascinated by the history, the people, and the culture, albeit an odd one at times. And in the spirit of confession I have to admit that I also didn't know much about the Society Of Friends, or Quakers, since the history books that I read for school only touched lightly on them and their history.

The Light Before Day is the final book in the series and I'm a bit sorry to say goodbye to the intertwined and often quirky Macy, Starbuck, Coffin, and Foulger families. I'm especially sorry to say goodbye to Great Mary as we have watched her from girlhood to grandmotherhood. Her wit and wisdom benefiting generations of family members as they face trying times. One must also not forget the hero and heroine of this book, Henry and his twin Hitty, who will leave readers applauding them and shaking their heads as the two find their purpose...and maybe love...

I think one of my favorite elements of the story is how Suzanne Woods Fisher wove a thread of suspense into what otherwise would have simply been a historical romance. Add in the fascinating historical details and some weird and wonderful characters and you have a pretty good story.

If you like to be entertained while learning a little bit about history this book, and series, would be a good one to check out.

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

Change is inevitable, though not always welcome. It’s our attitude that counts. While The Light Before Day may be an historical novel dating hundreds of years in the past, Suzanne Woods Fisher has made this message relevant for modern day. That is one of the strengths of her writing, whether historical or Amish fiction — making the unfamiliar feel real to her audience. In the third book of the Nantucket Legacy series Great Mary’s journal continues to provide insight into the founding of Nantucket Island and wisdom for her descendants (and the reader 🙂 ). In the 1840s, change is coming to Nantucket and the country as a whole. Society’s view on the rights of man are developing as the whaling industry suffers from over-fishing. Against this backdrop comes the stories of Henry and Hitty Macy, twins who have inherited an overwhelming and unwanted inheritance from their domineering grandmother. The two struggle with controlling the terms of the will while maintaining their own conscience and desires. I found both Henry and Hitty to be engaging characters. Secondary characters such as their grandfather Jeremiah, young but wise secretary Marie-Claire, and 5-year old Bitsy added depth and a bit of fun to the novel. As always the journal of Great Mary was a joy to read as she offers her views on her neighbors, family, and her growing faith in God. There’s a bit of lurking danger and two sweet, sweet romances in The Light Before Day that kept this reader turning the pages. There are also beginnings and endings in the two storylines that compliment each other. And the message of relationship with Jesus and being a light for others is inspiring. I don’t agree with all the tenets of the Quaker faith, but The Light Before Day gave me greater understanding of the Society of Friends.

The Light Before Day can be read as a standalone. I had read book 1, but missed book 2 and had no trouble jumping into the lives of the characters. But I do feel like I have missed a treat and am determined to read Minding The Light. So my recommendation is to begin at the beginning of this series for lots of wonderful reading.

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

Hetty and Henry Macy’s waspish and irascible grandmother left them a huge inheritance-with many stipulations-which both surprised and dismayed the twins. They didn’t want the inheritance, but the alternative to refusing was even worse than if they accepted.

The Light Before Day is well-written and exceptionally well researched, shedding light on the early Quaker religion in our burgeoning country. Fisher conveys a vivid legacy of Nantucket as shown through the eyes of many resident’s love for the island. Nonetheless, life on the island wasn’t idyllic; there was a deep undercurrent of poverty, racism and bigotry. The novel sheds light on problems inherent in a changing and growing time, and her use of Great Mary’s journal juxtaposed with the lives of the twins helps set the tone for the book.

As I read the story, I could see the island, smell the ocean and feel its mighty strength and reflect on parts of our country’s legacy. I came to understand and appreciate the challenge intrinsic in whale hunting, and the fear of the loss of livelihood as the whale population was diminishing. I could empathize with everyone trying to make a better life for people perceived to be of a lesser value than others. Although there is a romantic aspect woven into the story, there is so much to digest and reflect on that I feel one reading doesn’t do the story justice.

The Light Before Day completes the Nantucket Legacy Series. The book could be read as a standalone. Yet, to truly appreciate the storyline, I would suggest reading the first two books in the series, Phoebe’s Light and Minding the Light.

I received the book from NetGalley and Celebrate Lit. However, I was under no obligation to post a review.

This is the last book in this series and it was fantastic. I did not want to put this book down. I have loved these characters from book one in the series. I recommend reading books one and two before reading this one. You will understand a lot more if you read these in order. I loved Henry and Hitty. I also loved learning more about the Quaker religion and some of its early roots in the United States. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

Early New England Historical Story at It's Finest!

"The Light Before Day", is Suzanne Woods Fisher's 3rd & final story in her great Nantucket Legacy series. Twins, Henry & Hitty Macy's romance stories are the focus. They were introduced in the 2nd story as children; now they're adults.
They unexpectedly come into a financial windfall. What do they do with it? How does it change their lives? Does the money draw them closer to God & their community, or further away? Does their inheritance affect their romantic relationships? How does racial discrimination show itself, & affect the twins? You'll need to read SWF's wonderfully, engrossing, Historic Christian Romance, to find out how she weaves all these things together. I highly recommend you do! #TheLightBeforeDay

Suzanne Woods Fisher writes incredible Amish Fiction and now she has branched out into writing about the beginnings of the Quaker faith, especially on Nantucket Island. She writes with a depth of understanding that is fun to read.

Mehitabel (or Hitty) and her twin brother Henry have inherited their grandmother's estate, not because of any closeness they had with their grandmother, but because the rest of the relatives ranked lower on her scale than Hitty and Henry. The only thing is that she put some conditions on their inheritance. The money has to be used to better the island and not get into the hands of one specific relative. They also have to be married before she would have turned eighty and the spouses must have "the Look" of being related.

The lawyer helping them with the estate is a bit shady, or maybe even a whole lot shady.

The Light Before Day is one of those books that hooks the readers and reels them in until the very last page, leaving them shaking their heads at the implications of all that's happened. Hitty and Henry are empathetic characters that will pull on the readers' heart strings. Five Star Book, Two Thumbs Up, and a Cent School for preschoolers.

I want to thank Revell for allowing me to read and review this book, and NetGalley.com for providing the galley I read.

I have to say the ending was a lot different than I expected and I love book like that. I love it when I get surprised. Henry and his sister. Hitty returns to Nantucket to claim their unexpected inheritance from their grandmother. They find out there is requirements to the will before they can get the inheritance. Will they be able to meet their requirements?
The book is an historical that is actually set in two time periods. One is by what Mary Coffin Starbuck had written in a journal. I enjoy books that are written like that and love how the two time periods intertwine together.
I received an complementary copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.