Georgia hosts the Cotton Expo in the late 1800s and residents are anxious to get jobs at the Expo. Willie needs the money to pay for rehabilitation hospital services for his father. Laurel Millard takes a job to get out of the house and pursue her own path. Her older siblings tasked her with forever taking care of their widowed mother. Mom, though, encourages Laurel to use her talents at the Expo and pursue her talents. Laurel is hired to work on the silk loom. Willie works as a security guard. Wealthy, young Langdon Rochester is looking for a trophy wife to ensure his inheritance. Laurel catches his eye and we’re off.
Follow the story of Laurel, Willie and Langdon as they consider different ways as they struggle through young adulthood. There’s also an undercurrent of privilege and racial issues in the story.

It’s been quite a while since I read a KVS book, but she quickly reminded me why I like her so much!

The setting is the Atlanta Exposition in 1895, which I loved learning about! I googled several items of interest that I found in the story. I love when that happens and that’s why I enjoy historical fiction so much! A little - or a lot of! -learning in a story setting!

Laurel finds a job weaving silk in the Women's Building, which is not looked upon kindly by many locals who see it as a threat to their local cotton.

Add in Willie, a hard-working young man who desires to earn some extra money at the Exposition for his pa’s medical needs; Langdon, a rich boy who can’t please his father (and rightly so); Quincy, who has to learn that it’s not your outside that gives you respect; and a big, orange tabby (because anyone who knows even a little about KVS - she loves cats)!

This book was a little different - she gently wove in a bit more serious subject than some of her past books: racism. Luke 6:31, “As ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.”

It was a perfect blend of characters and situations. I was both satisfied and challenged by A Silken Thread - and I think you will be, too!

A Silken Thread by Kim Vogel Sawyer - 4 Stars!
I love this author! She always writes such great stories that pull at the heart strings that are so full of rich historical background. Once again, she has done her a great job with this book. The background history being that of the International Cotton Exposition and the silk trade, how the silk is gotten and how it is put on a loom, she has a girl who knows how to work a loom with cotton on it, and so she is able to secure the job in the Women’s section of the Exposition of setting up the silk on a similar loom and working it all day while two other women tell visitors the story of the background to silk. The book is full of action, romance, betrayal and history. I won’t tell you the story here as the description tells you the setting of the story and the characters. This book was well paced, I wanted to keep reading, it’s plot is so well done and the people’s stories that were the forefront of the book were so well thought out and interesting. I rated this book a 4. If I could it would have been 4.5.

I received this book free from NetGalley.com for promotional means, and my review as shown above was absolutely voluntary. #NetGalley #ASilkenThread
Description as found on NetGalley:
For readers who love a heartwarming romance and a rich historical setting comes a tale of a young woman with a heavy burden, the International Cotton Exposition, and the pursuit of true love.


Eighteen-year-old Laurel Millard, youngest of seven children, is expected to stay home and "take care of Mama" by her older siblings, but Laurel has dreams of starting her own family. Operating a silk loom at the Atlanta Exposition will give her the chance to capture the heart of a man wealthy enough to take care of Laurel and any children she might bear, as well as her mother. Brendan Rochester's parents have given him an ultimatum: settle down with a wife or lose his family inheritance. At the Exposition, Brendan meets Laurel. Marrying her would satisfy his parents’ command, she would look lovely on his arm for social events, and in her besotted state, he believes she would overlook him continuing pursuing rowdy adventures with his unmarried buddies. Brendan decides to woo Laurel. Willie Sharp is not well-off and must take on an extra job at the Atlanta Exposition as a security guard. When mischief-makers cause trouble in the Women's Building, Willie is put in charge of keeping the building secure. He enjoys visiting with Laurel, who seems like the little sister he never had, but his feelings for Laurel change to something much deeper. Can Willie convince Laurel that he can give her better life--even with so little to offer?

Laurel Millard is the youngest of seven children, her brothers and sisters are married with children of their own. She has been told that she needs to remain at home at look after her Mom. She gets a job at the Atlanta Exposition as a silk loom operator. She meets Langdon Rochester, who is wealthy while working there. This looks like this may be the answer to her prayers, someone who will be able to look after her and her mom. She also meets Willie Sharp there, He is working to help his dad who has suffered a stroke. Laurel has to find out what is important to her.
This was a great read. Kim Vogel Sawyer is always a great author and does not fail to deliver in this book.

A Silken Thread, by Kim Vogel Sawyer, was an engaging book that captured me from the start. I enjoyed not only the story, but also the history and the information included about the International Cotton Expo in Atlanta during the late eighteen hundreds. Sawyer did a great job of including accurate historical information into the story while developing the characters. The story itself is about Laurel, a young girl of eighteen who is ready to find love. However, her older brothers and sisters wish her to stay home and care for their mama, telling her that it is her responsibility as the youngest child. Laurel, however, wants a family of her own. Determined to find a way to help her mother and find her way into her own future, she goes to work at the Expo, while also using her time there to find a husband who can help her provide for her mother. She meets Langdon, a wealthy young man who has been given an ultimatum by his parents: either find a wife and get his life on track or lose his inheritance. Laurel seems to fit the bill exactly. She is pretty, yet naive and he feels like he can manipulate her into becoming who he wants. As Laurel spends time with him, she also gets to know a young man who works at the expo with her, Willie Sharp. Willie has the responsibility of caring for his ailing father and works hard to help pay for his care at a convalescent hospital. While Laurel is spending time with Langdon, Willie watches her and wishes things could be different. When a series of events forces Laurel to look at herself, Willie, and Langdon differently, will she discover what God's plan for her life really is?
I truly enjoyed this story and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical romance. It will remind you about young love while encouraging you to look heavenly for your next step. I received a free copy of this story from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

A very touching story taken place during the 1800's Cotton Exposition in Atlanta. Readers who love historical novels will enjoy this story. It was interesting to note that the cotton workers did not like the silk worm farmers because the trade might hurt the sale of cotton. I liked the descriptions of the the silk worm process and weaving. Social and racial issues of the time period added to the story. Highly recommended!

A Silken Thread by Kim Vogel Sawyer
I received an unedited proof edition of this book through NetGalley because I asked to read and review it. This is my unbiased review.

I liked this book, it is a historical Christian fiction book. Even though it was not a final copy, the editing was very well done. I cannot remember an error at all.

The characters were well defined and realistic. The plot flowed well. It was well written, but for me, it was not an "I cannot put this down" type of book. It did not keep me glued to the pages and I would not likely re-read this book.

The plot revolves around the south just after the Civil war. It shows, probably in a kinder way, the feelings of the whites against the blacks. It also deals with the basic honest or dishonesty as the case was of people in general. It showed how a Christian should act and did bring in God but it was not preachy at all.

I have read and enjoyed other books by Kim Vogel Sawyer, but this doesn't live up to the others. I think if you want a light read, you will enjoy the book. I rated it 4 stars out of 5.

I have read and review A Silken Thread by author Kim Vogel Sawyer. I received this e-book from publishing company Penguin Random House. This book was the first book I have read by author Kim Vogel Sawyer. The story line was very realistic and true to the time period. I loved how they did a point of few from someone of who back then was financially wealthy, a middle income and what they considered low class. I loved how they talked on the high and loves of being in love and lust. And what make look like the right person isn't really the right one. And to be a open minded about the things around you.

At the Atlanta Exposition A young woman seeks employment for two reasons, one is to earn a little spending money, but the bigger reason is to be around lots of wealthy men whom she might come in contact with and maybe win the eye of one for marriage.

Laurel Millard is the youngest child in her family. At eighteen she is the last child living at home with her widowed mother. Her other siblings expect her to take care of their mother until her passing. This seems difficult and especially cruel in the eyes of an eighteen year old who desires to marry and have a family of her own.

Laurel decides to apply at the Atlanta Exposition to hopefully find a wealthy husband to marry so that she can have a family and also have someone to provide for her mother. She gets hired to work the loom in the silk exposition. Little does she know that this will be an experience she will never forget.

The story is well written, excellently researched and documents not just this romantic search, but it also touches on the tender issue of race relations. This is after the Civil War, but still close enough to that time that people in the south are still harboring thoughts that African American people are sub-standard and should remain as slaves.

Two young men, one white and one black, who have grown up as childhood friends also get jobs at the exposition. They face criticism and prejudice on many levels because of their friendship and thoughts.

Then there is the wealthy businessman who has an exhibit at the exposition from his father’s company and is attracted to Laurel.

Kim Vogel Sawyer weaves a wonderful storyline along with enough actual historical fact to make for an entertaining and enlightening read.

Topics you will encounter will be loyalty, friendship, prejudice, brutal business practice, false accusations, difficult family relationships, etc. The story will provide excellent material for any book club.

Enjoy!

Ohh, how am I supposed to review this? What am I supposed to say? How am I supposed to form words to express how much I loved this?

It was such a great book and now I need to paperback of it … but it doesn't come out until April! I shall wait as patiently as I can. ;)

The characters in this book were amazing and I loved each one of them … even Langdon (sort of, but definitely more at the end). I could relate so much with a lot of their feelings, they were so real! I have so say my favourites were Quincy, Willie, and Laurel, but everyone was great! Willie just had that sweet, gentleman-like attitude, Quincy - although he held anger for a while about how white men treated him differently - was a sweet guy, and Laurel was just a darling. But they all had faults, that's what I liked about them!
Willie's father was so sweet as well! I just love how Willie was so willing to care for him … the same for Laurel caring for her mother.

The story-line is a harder one, but Mrs. Sawyer wrote it really well!! It was a little while after the War Between the States, so there were still people upset about it. Racism is a hard topic to talk about sometimes, but as I said, Mrs. Sawyer did really well talking about it in her book. The points she made about it were all wonderful. I'm glad she wrote this!

This book is definitely a must-read, I know I will be re-reading it sometime when I get a paperback of it! That cover is so gorgeous, isn't it?? So pink and bright!

Content:
Racism is the main focus of this book, but Mrs. Sawyer dealt with it very well. There's one kiss at the end, but it wasn't detailed.

So, let me say it. You should read this! It'll be worth it, don't worry!

*I received a copy of this book from it's publisher on NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. This is my honest review and all opinions are my own.

Simply Outstanding!
The story was brilliant, with outstanding and believable characters. This is one that really makes a person think about prejudices and social class. It all comes to this. God created us equally, bottom line. Did not take me long to read it, was very hard to put it down, even to the point where I woke up this morning at 3 AM, and simply had to finish it. This is one story I will definitely remember. A must read and keeper. Thank you for this amazing and heartfelt story, Kim Vogel Sawyer.

A Silken Thread

A Silken Thread resonated with me unexpectedly. Laurel's siblings (all six of them) got together with Laurel and decreed that she would remain unmarried and take care of their mother in her dotage. My dad's parents and two of his brothers tried to make the same decree on him, but the difference is, he'd already found his bride and the wedding was not too far into the future. My dad had one brother who stood up for him and told the rest that it was not fair for them to enjoy their families while refusing to allow Dad to have the same chance. Dad and the one brother built a house for Dad's parents to live in and they took care of his parents until the oldest brother thought he was better able to do so and moved them in with him.

Now, back to the book. The Cotton Expo has come to Atlanta to promote cotton and enhance the role of cotton in daily life. But one grower wants to showcase silk and how it's grown and harvested. They need someone who can weave and operate a loom to be part of the display. Laurel and her mother weave with cotton and wool to make lengths of fabric or rugs or other useful items, so Laurel applied for the weaving job. The weaving job allows Laurel to meet two very disparate young men who both vie for her heart and her hand.

Kim Vogel Sawyer is one of the most highly regarded Christian fiction authors in my opinion. Her writing style is engaging and compelling, her characters are real and believable, the conflict is easily plausible and the way it works out supremely satisfying. Of everything I've read by Kim, her writing quality increases with each book I read.

Five stars, two thumbs up, and some woven silk for a bow.

I wish to thank Waterbrook/Multnomah Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book.

Kim Vogel Sawyer has done a remarkable job of setting her story in Atlanta in the year 1895 and making it relevant to our world today. She’s tackled the difficult subject of racism during that period of time and kept the story both readable and relatable. Through the characters of Quincy, Willie, and Laurel, we see the problems of being viewed through the prejudices of race, economic status, or family. This book is very well written and the storyline is quite interesting. All three of the main characters face decisions and difficulties that make them take a close look at what they believe about race, social standing, and friendship.

I found the story of Willie and Quincy’s friendship to be compelling. They must decide if their being of different races will affect their life-long friendship as they are now young adults.
Willie turns to the Bible for some answers, but Quincy is not quite sure he can put bitterness aside and turn to God. Laurel is experiencing prejudice through the lens of social/economic standing. I found myself wondering how I would handle some of the situations they face, and to me, that’s one of the marks of a great author: Writing a story that’s both compelling and convicting.

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

In an style very reminiscent of Grace Livingston Hill, Kim Vogel Sawyer has written an incredible novel about trusting God with all our lives. While this book is set in history past, the lessons that it contains apply to today. Aging parents, racism, illness, false accusations, true love, and abuse are all contained in this fascinating story. "A Silken Thread" challenges you to think about what your stance on racism is, and if you would stand up for your beliefs even in the face of ridicule, job loss, and potential jail time. I enjoyed how the characters are life like, in that they don't always make the "right" choice, or "see" that this isn't the right one right away. The question and answers section make this book a great choice for your book club, or library group to read and discuss.

Laurel Millard dreams of a husband and family of her own, but her older siblings have decided it will be her lot to take care of their mother. Hoping to find a man who'll agree to take on that responsibility, Laurel interviews for a position at the International Cotton Exposition in 1881 Atlanta. In the silk-weaving room, she puts her skills to use and keeps her eyes open for a man of character.

Langdon Rochester has never been good enough for his father. Now that he's twenty-three, he must prove he's competent enough to manage the family factory and dependable enough to attract a suitable wife. He offers to man the Rochester steam engine booth at the Atlanta Exposition, hoping that the crowds will produce a young woman pretty enough and compliant enough to fit the bill as the future Mrs. Rochester.

Willie Sharp has been working in the Rochester factory since his late teens, trying to earn extra money to put his father in a convalescence hospital after his debilitating stroke. When the opportunity comes to earn extra as a security guard at the Exposition, he jumps at it. Booker T. Washington give the keynote address on the importance of blacks and whites working together in harmony, but the ugliness that Willie sees at the Exposition shows that this harmony is little more than a fairy tale. Should Willie speak up for the injustice he sees, even at the risk of losing his position as guard in the silk room?

This book is an intriguing look at racial tensions in post-Civil War Atlanta. The highly-segregated society shows that the Emancipation Proclamation has failed to produce equality in the South. Willie's black friend Quincy struggles with rage and resentment at the unfair treatment he receives. Laurel experiences confusion about the cavalier manner in which the Rochesters' black servants are treated. Langdon epitomizes the privilege of the rich, white class toward those they consider beneath them. I tend to enjoy novels with a less overt "message," but despite the lack of subtlety, there was still enjoyment to be found in the story and the atmostphere of the Atlanta Exposition. 

Disclosure: I received a complimentary review copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

A Silken Thread is the first book I have read from Kim Vogel Sawyer. Overall I liked the book and appreciated learning about the creation of silk and the "bunny moths". I thought the book was well written with a lot of beautiful detail.. The elements of faith, family, and love were woven throughout the book and made for a nice story. A few of my favorite quotes:
"Set the better example, Willie. Be kind an' acceptin'. Sometimes all people need is someone to show them another way to be."
"I suppose it happened, Laurel, because some people don't see the beauty of a thing. they only see a threat."
"Every body who's born got two choices- be owned by God or be owned by sin. Now me, I a slave, but I choose to be a slave to God."
Where I had difficulty with the book was the way Quincy's dialogue was written- I realize it was necessary for his character but it tripped me up at times to understand what he was saying. Also I didn't think the romance between Willie and Laurel was well developed and Laurel went from loving Langdon to loving Willie within days. It just didn't seem realistic to me.

I received a complimentary copy of this book the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was one of many books that I have read from Kim Vogel Sawyer, and I again enjoyed reading her work. I loved this story that it was set in the time period right after the civil war. The hate of racism was still vary strong but she wove a beautiful friendship into the book. And also the romance that formed from the two main characters through a friendship.

Ms. Sawyer’s latest novel examines a historical time and place that was not an easy time to live in. It also assessed people’s viewpoints during that time period. This novel focuses on Laurel, the youngest daughter, who was able to obtain a job at the Atlanta Exposition spinning silk. At the exposition, she meets Langdon. Langdon is working the exhibit for his father who is wanting him to grow up. She also is around Willie, a security officer for the exhibit. Together through various interactions with both she learns how their hearts truly lie. This story shows how to be courageous and do the right thing no matter what the cost. It also displays how true character is exhibited. The story of forgiveness is intertwined throughout this book. I highly recommend this book and believe you will not be disappointed!
***I was given a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest opinion. Even though I received this copy free, this is my own opinion.

I really enjoyed reading this book! This is the first time I have read a book, by Kim Vogel Sawyer & I was captivated by this story. I had a horrible putting this book down, as I wanted to keep reading.

I have read several of Kim's novels before. I was very excited when I was chosen to read an ARC copy of this book. It did not disappoint. Kim will take you on an unforgettable journey. Fans of Christian historical romance will not be disappointed with her new book.

This story was written in 1895 during the Cotton States International Exposition in Atlanta, Georgia. There was so many interesting facts woven throughout this book. You can see this authors love of history, the background and research one would have to do to write such a interesting account of this time period.

Booker T. Washington spoke at this exposition. A quote from his speech “"it is at the bottom of life we must begin, and not at the top. Nor should we permit our grievances to overshadow our opportunities."
One of the themes of the story involves prejudice, and bigotry. It is such a sad part of our history. It's hard to read about it, if we could only say it wasn't a part of our present day.

This story is told through the perspective of four individuals who cross paths throughout the exposition.
Laurel Millard is 18 years old. She is the youngest of seven children and has recently been told by her older siblings that she will take care of their mom until she goes to Glory to be with her dad. It's her duty being the youngest. Her mom has encouraged her to take a position as a weaver at the exposition, hoping she will meet a nice young man.

Brendan Rochester has also been given an ultimatum by his parents. Grow up, settle down and take a wife or he will lose his inheritance.

I think my favorite characters of this story is Willie Sharp, and his neighbor and best friend Quincy Tate. I believe this author did a wonderful job of showing us prejudice and bigotry through Quincy's eyes as he experienced it. I could relate to Willie's lack of understanding. This is his best friend, they have been together since they were babies. There are parts that must have been hard for Kim to write. They were hard for me to read. I would suggest, be sure you have tissues.

This story was so well written. The characters become real. Most were people you would want as your best friend or neighbor. As in any good book, there was at least one you will love to hate.

There is always a thread of faith woven throughout Ms. Sawyer's books. What a delightful story to lose yourself in.

I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook Press through NetGalley. The opinions expressed here in this review are my own.