Hazel is hoping for a new beginning when she takes the job as a Lady in Attendance for Gilbert Watts. She has just served five years in a New York State reformatory for a burglary that she didn’t do.

This was a sweet story about second chances for Hazel who has lost the support of her family, and how she works hard to regain the family she lost but also gains friends she didn’t think she deserved.

A Lady in Attendance didn’t quite hit the mark for me like Rachel Fordham’s previous novel that I have read. I liked the characters but I didn’t connect with any of them.

My gratitude to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

I rarely give five-star reviews. I’m not a traditional romantic, but even I was swooning over Gilbert. Rachel has written my soulmate! Loved the relationship that developed between Gilbert and Hazel, especially all their witty banter. The side characters were great, and there was even a mystery to top it all off! As always, Rachel weaves in great themes to add depth and meaning to the story.

This was a sweet story and I loved the hero, Gilbert. His love for Hazel, his lady in attendance, truly transformed him!

I would recommend to anyone who loves historical fiction and romance novels.

I received this book from the publisher via net galley in exchange for an honest review

Talk about a lovely, lovely book, even before you open it. The cover is pure sweetness and the way Rachel Fordham strings words together is breathtaking. As you will read, she pulls her inspiration from various sources. The originality really shows!

Set in New York in 1898, Hazel is so desperate for a job that she fibs during her lady in attendance job interview with Dr. Gilbert Watts, a dentist. She is hired and both are keen to maintain professional boundaries and propriety. Hazel doesn't give her true name as she is worried sick about her past catching up with her, particularly her five-year stint in a reformatory. She is ashamed though repentant and desperate to clear her name. Meanwhile, she and her friend, Ina, dip their toes into matchmaking.

So much to enjoy about this book from the fascinating daily dental work details to banter between Hazel and Gilbert to beautiful shows of respect and honour to historical bits. Gilbert is quiet and Hazel is outgoing, very different personalities, but their companionship creates a complementary workplace for them and their patients. Gilbert could not be more romantic....ahhhh! However, there are hardships as there are in real life. And I love that despite blemishes, physical and mental, people deserve to be loved. God's grace is a remarkable thing.

This gentle but not saccharine book is about dealing with one's past and looking ahead to the future, loss, love, trust and forgiveness. Historical Fiction, General Fiction and Christian Fiction readers ought to pick this up.

My sincere thank you to Revell and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this inspiring book. It brought me a lot of joy!

A Lady in Attendance
by Rachel Fordham
Back of the Book: “Five years in a New York state reformatory have left a blemish on Hazel's real name. So when she takes a job as Doctor Gilbert Watts's lady in attendance in 1898, she does so under an alias. In the presence of her quiet and pious employer, Hazel finds more than an income. She finds a friend and a hope that if she can set her tarnished past in order, she might have a future after all.
As Gilbert becomes accustomed to the pleasant chatter of his new dental assistant, he can't help but sense something secretive about her. Perhaps there is more to this woman than meets the eye. Can the questions that loom between them ever be answered? Or will the deeds of days gone by forever rob the future of its possibilities?
Rachel Fordham pens a tender tale of a soft-spoken man, a hardened woman, and the friends that stand by them as they work toward a common purpose--to expunge the record of someone society deemed beyond saving--and perhaps find love along the way.”
Impressions: This was a sweet and inspirational historical romance.
Rated: kisses on the cheek
Liked: I enjoyed Hazel’s journey. She didn’t settle in a state of pity as she could have but took responsibility for her wrongs. Hazel showed she was willing to work hard to move forward in life. I admired her strength of character.
Disliked: The suspense of this book was a little soft and uneventful. There were no real moments that had me on the edge of my seat as I expected.
Quotes: “The years of hardship and pain as she served her sentence and now the months of severed ties all felt like a heavy cost for a bit of foolhardy recklessness. An ounce of wisdom and a measure of discretion, and she could have avoided it all.” -Do you have any moments of your past that sent a ripple of change to your future? How did you personally change from that moment?
“I’ve watched you fight to stay angry, and from my vantage point, I’d say grudges are not simple. They require endless feeding. Forgiving may in fact be the easier route, and there’s no doubt it’s the better one.” – Unforgiveness is so hard. It is all-consuming as it grows stronger the longer you let it fester. It gets out of hand so quickly if left unchecked. When I am feeling angry and unforgiving, I picture myself and the other person at the foot of Jesus trying to justify myself. I look foolish and I know it, and it prods me to see beyond my anger and frustration and towards reconciliation. It is still not easy to forgive especially when there was no apology or acknowledgment of wrong but what I am unable to do through my own strength, my God can do. I lean on His strength to forgive and find peace.
“I would not have picked the trials I have endured, but there’s no going back, and I’ve learned that being angry does no good. I refuse to carry the burden of regret and have chosen to be grateful I am where I am today and not dwell on the path that has led me here.”-I love Hazel’s attitude and response here.
“I won’t judge her even if she is a woman of the night. No one is unredeemable.” -NO ONE is unredeemable! Don’t believe the lie that you are. The Bible is literally full of repeat sinners who God uses for His glory. Murderers, adulterers, liars… you name it, and God has used them all to show us now that we are not past redemption but saved through grace. Ephesians 2:8-9 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.

Hazel McDowell is desperate for a chance to make it on her own. Recently released from a women’s reformatory, she has served her time for a wrongful burglary conviction. Now, seeking to clear her name, Hazel needs to find a job. More than that, she needs someone to believe in her. When she finds work as a lady in attendance to a quiet, shy dentist named Gilbert Watts., Hazel finally feels a sense of purpose and belonging. Will it all come to an end when Gilbert learns of her past? Will Hazel ever be able to prove her innocence and be able to dream of a guilt-free future? This heartwarming story of redemption and forgiveness would’ve a worthy addition to any historical fiction collection.

A refreshing historical read, full of inspiration, genuine friendships, and tender romance. Sure to appeal to fans of Janette Oke, Tracie Peterson, and Grace Livingston. Set in New York in the late 1800's featuring a young woman with a past and a kind dentist who gives her a second chance.

This was a good, gentle read with a bit of mystery and action towards the second half. I loved Hazel's repentant heart and her sincere desire to overcome her past with faith and hard work. She was a lovely example of a life redeemed by God's grace. Her willingness to extend that grace to others was beautiful, forgiving wrongs and the people who misjudged her. Forgiving ourselves can sometimes be the hardest of all. The themes of reconciliation and redemption were uplifting. I loved her encouraging friendship with Ina and also the tender bond that she developed with shy Gilbert. He was a terrific guy!

A satisfying read overall. Recommend for older teens and up. 4.5 stars

What a lovely book! I loved the themes, including finding forgiveness, forgiving oneself, and finding love even when you might not feel worthy of it. I also really loved the characters. Hazel, with her past mistakes, is so relatable; she just felt so real as she struggled to move on and to make her way in life. Gilbert was such a sweetheart; even though he thought of himself as pretty boring, he was so perfect for Hazel, and I loved seeing him reach out to her and open up his heart. I also loved secondary characters Ina and Duncan. The historical background of the story was spot-on, and the quest to figure out what really happened in Hazel's past was engaging. This is a sweet and satisfying story that will leave readers with a smile.
4..5 stars.
I read an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found it hard to put down. The author captured my attention and inspired me to remember the importance of seeing good and change in all people, including myself.

Wonderful Story of Redemption!

A Lady in Attendance by Rachel Fordham was such a heartwarming and uplifting novel of redemption and second chances! This poignant and beautiful story captured my attention in the prologue and held it completely throughout the book. Not only did I find myself invested in the main characters and cheering them on to their own happily-ever-after, but also enjoyed the cast of secondary characters who banded together to support Hazel. The witty banter between Hazel and Gilbert was so enjoyable to read! Gilbert was a charming hero starting with his shy and quiet beginning to his increased confidence and more talkative nature. I absolutely loved when Hazel confided to Gilbert about her past as well as his reaction to that information. It was believable, steadfast and full of devotion.

While a work of fiction, this book presented such a hopeful outlook that goodness still exists and that people are truly capable of changing for the better through faith, forgiving oneself and others, life lessons, and a supportive network of caring people. I could envision this book developing into a series with spin-off stories of Hazel and Gilbert’s siblings. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to fans of sweet, historical romance.

I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley and Celebrate Lit and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed here are my own.

I quickly became thoroughly engrossed in Rachel Fordham's latest, A Lady in Attendance, She knows just how to write in such a way that draws you in and makes you feel like you are a part of the story.

It was so sweet to watch Hazel and Gilbert's romance bloom. Not only was there romance, but also adventure and mystery. At times I would find myself smiling as I read and then crying at other times. I know when I can finish a book in an afternoon that it's a good one and one I'll enjoy recommending to friends and patrons at the library. The theme of forgiveness runs all the way through this beautiful Christian, historical fiction.

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

This is the first book I've read by Rachel Fordham and I loved it! Well written, nice characters, an actual storyline and plot, clean romance, and a nice ending. It's Christian but not preachy and wordy like some in the genre.

I enjoyed the historical aspects of this story, namely the jobs of dentist and lady in attendance, being a dental assistant. I'm sure it was a novel concept at the time, but something that helped things be more efficient.

Hazel has spent five years in a reformatory for a theft she didn't commit. She wants to clear her name and return to her family. She also needs a way to support herself and she's hired as a lady in attendance for Dr. Gilbert, the local dentist.

The Gilbert is a quiet man and Hazel's exuberance almost overwhelms him at first. But she works hard as an assistance and relates well to the patients, and he begins to admire her.

The progression of their friendship into something more is slow and it gives them the time to develop their feelings and help Hazel clear her name.

I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.

I enjoyed reading A Lady in Attendance. At first, I laughed at the title. It sounds like another name for a mistress. But apparently it was what early dental assistants were called. I was a dental assistant before having kids, so I was interested what is was like a hundred years ago.

The main character, Hazel, has had her share of problems. When young, she was the biggest flirt in her town and enjoyed toying with men's hearts. After being found in a compromising situation, she was forced to marry a man she barely knew to save both their reputations. In doing so, many lives were changed, and many hearts broken. After six months of marriage, her husband died in an accident and Hazel was convicted of stealing jewelry. After five years in prison, Hazel has paid her debt to society. But what is a single young woman in 1898 supposed to do after being set free?
She lies a little to secure a job with an awkward dentist as his lady in attendance. She finds that she has a knack for making people comfortable in the dentist's chair. Her employer, Gilbert Watts, can see that Hazel is different than most young ladies he has known. After Hazel trusts him with all her secrets, Gilbert and Hazel team up with other friends to try and clear her name.

I thought this was a great book! I loved the story line and the characters. If you are a fan of Historical Fiction, then you will enjoy this book.

I have loved all of Rachel Fordham's books, and this is no exception, it was a wonderful gift.

A young woman who made a lot of wrong choices, and she paid dearly for them. She ended up in a Reformatory, and lost her family. Now what? She was framed, but why? Answers are forthcoming, and we are along for the ride.

After leaving her confinement she moves to Amhurst NY and takes a job as a dental assistant, only this is the 1890's and having a woman work in the dental office is new and they are called a Lady in Attendance. What she doesn't expect is begin caring about the dentist, Gilbert. You are going to love the banter between the two, and the big heart Hazel has and how she helps her friend Inz, wonderful..

This read just kept getting better and better, and the pages flew, you never see what was coming! Surprises abound, and it is beautifully written!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

A very well written inspirational romance. A good plot with good character dynamics. I recommend this book. I received an advance ebook from the publisher and Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.

First sentence: The coarse gray fabric of Hazel’s newly donned uniform felt uncomfortable and foreign against her skin. She scratched her neck, trying in vain to force the itch away, but it was no use. These drab clothes would likely never feel comfortable, nor would these dark walls and tall fences ever feel like home.

Hazel McDowell hasn't had the easiest time finding a job--at least under her real name--but her luck is about to change. With just a few little white lies, she starts a new job as a lady in attendance. What is a lady in attendance--you may be wondering?!?! She acts as both assistant AND chaperone to her dentist employer, Dr. Gilbert Watts. (In particular, when his clients are female--she is acting chaperone.)

So. Hazel, our heroine, has a past, and she spends her spare time doing two things: a) hanging out with her new best friend, Ina, an old maid teacher and b) trying to find someone to help her clear her name and salvage her reputation.

Though neither Hazel nor Gilbert (not Giblet) are looking for love, that may just be what they find.

It is set in New York in the 1890s. (1898 to be precise).

I enjoyed this one. I did. I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED, LOVED Ina. I did. I loved this side story so very much. I am so pleased it got so much time in the novel. I did like the main story--Gilbert and Hazel--but what I really enjoyed was the whole atmosphere of it--all the characters, all the little things. It was just an enjoyable story.

Rachel Fordham’s A Lady in Attendance is a lovely, beautifully written story of second chances and forgiveness. Hazel’s past is one she is ashamed of and wants no one to know of. Gilbert, her new boss, doesn’t trust anyone and is very careful about who he lets in his life. Together they form a friendship, and with the help of others, the hope that Hazel has for her future is within reach. I loved this book, and I look forward to reading more books by Rachel Fordham.

A LADY IN ATTENDANCE by Rachel Fordham

Set in 1898, when proper ladies did not work for single men, Hazel finds that is her only choice. She has spent the past five years in a state reformatory for a crime that she did not commit has left her in desperate circumstances. She feels there is nothing else she can do but take an assumed name and seek employment. Her family does not wish for any contact, so she is on her own. She looks all around for a suitable job and finally finds one working for Doctor Gilbert Watts, as his Lady in Attendance, which is a secretary and dental assistant for his busy, successful dental office.

Doctor Gilbert Watts is a timid man, with no social skills whatsoever especially in dealing with the opposite sex. He describes Hazel's duties to her and makes it plain that they are to have a working relationship only.

Hazel isn't looking for romance, she simply wishes to earn enough money to live and to someday be able to clear her name.

There is a mystery afoot. Original story. Delightful characters. Highly recommend.

A million thanks to #netgalley for the complimentary copy of #aladyinattendance I was under no obligation to post a review.

Rachel Fordham has once again given us a story that doesn't let you go until the last page but stays with you long after you close the book.

Hazel has just spent five years in a state reformatory for a crime she didn't commit. Now she needs to clear her name and find a way to support herself while doing so. The problem is that most people won't hire someone with such a questionable background. So she changes her name and ends up working for a dentist (Gilbert Watts) as a lady in attendance.

While she tries to make sense of how she was framed for a crime she didn't commit, Hazel begins to realize she needs to trust someone with what has happened to her. Especially when she is attracted to that someone.

I loved the friendship between Hazel and Gilbert and how she brought out the best in him and vice versa. While their romance brewed beneath the surface, they grew together as good friends first.

The theme of redemption is strong in this story and how important it is to learn to forgive others for their transgressions and forgive yourself for past mistakes. I also loved how the author fit Ina and Duncan into the story. Ina's story will resonate with many who feel uncomfortable in their own skin.

A beautiful tale of romance, danger and possibilities! I highly recommend it!

I received this book courtesy of Revell through NetGalley for my honest opinion.