Another fantastic historical fiction, loved the mystery that was in it and how it really sucked you in. Highly recommend.

If you judge a book by its cover, this cover represents exactly what the story is about. The main setting, a showboat, was so fun to read about. Sometimes you can set a story anywhere and it works, with this book however, the showboat is an integral part of the story itself. The characters had depth and developed throughout the chapters. I found the writing style to be enjoyable and was definitely entertained. If you like Christian historical fiction, with a touch of mystery, you will enjoy this story!

In the Shadow of the River is my second book by this author, and I have come to love how beautifully she writes genuine, relatable, and likable characters. I enjoyed the tightly-knit, quirky showboating family in this story. Each of the characters is so colorful and memorable. I can’t imagine the fun to be had while aboard The Floating Palace! And yet, within its cabins, there are the heavy and uncomfortable truths of life pressing down on its crew. The mystery surrounding Jacci’s birth and the danger that follows her will keep you turning the pages of this novel, but so will the slow-burn romance between Gabe and Jacci.
Overall, I enjoyed this story and its themes of what makes a true family. I will remember these characters long after I’ve closed this book. I can’t express how raw and honest of a story Ann H. Gabhart writes. It is beautiful and tragic and inspirational–all at once!
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Ann Gabhart has such a knack for telling stories about tenacious women. This time around we actually get the story of two such women. Jacci Reed and her mother Irena are the epitome of tenacious. We meet them when Jacci is just five and follow them until Jacci is well into adulthood.

The story is at times gut-wrentching yet it is also intriguing. They both live their lives on a river boat. Irena is a maid but Jacci is a performer on the Kingston Floating Palace. I found it very interesting to peek behind the curtain and see how life is behind the stage.

Along with the interesting aspects of stage life there is also a dark side to this story. Evil is lurking in the shadows and Jacci seems to be the intended target. She finds herself in some narrow escapes that lead to more questions than answers.

I enjoyed this story immensely. Strong characters. Interesting plot line. And an ending that was unexpected but satisfying.

Why I chose this book: The cover and the title were what attracted me to this book.

Type of Book: Late 1800s. Christian Historical Fiction. One of the reasons I love historical fiction so much is that I get to learn by living through these fictional characters. However, I felt this book didn't offer much of that. There is a limited setting (on a riverboat), with limited interactions with anyone off the boat. You get a historical reference to who was running for president but that's about it. No problem, some stories are like that. Just not my preference.

Overall: I'm glad I got to read this story. Memorable because the setting was so different from most other historical fiction. I liked that. The beginning is told through a child's POV, which can be tricky--the vocabulary used wasn't that of a child. For example, this child thinks/describes "Any hint of a smile was gone and the wrinkles around his mouth got deeper." Would a child notice this? A child probably would tell, not show--but you're not supposed to do that as an author, so what do you do? It's tricky and I understand why it's written as it is but I feel like that was the easy way out. I didn't feel this child's story because it didn't sound like a child.

There was a Sensitivity issue once--probably would have suggested different phrasing when the main character is describing another character.

Then we needed some work on the scenes. In one chapter I was left wondering why it was in the story. I expected something big to happen and it just--fizzled without purpose. Each scene should cause the main character to move forward in the story. Actually, it should move the character sideways from what he/she wants, ultimately pushing that character to where they really need to be.

In the last scene, a character shows up conveniently instead of another character that was already on the scene.

Overall, I feel like you get the whole story in the back cover copy, less "the mystery" that is a secret your main character already knows--except for one "secret" that conveniently is thrown in at the end to make the climax happen. All in all, it's a story. It has a plot and characters and setting. But nothing moved me. Was is a little escape from my daily life? Yeah. It did serve that purpose but I don't think it's a book I'd recommend to someone as a must-read. Could it have been better? Sure. Was it bad? No, not at all; it was fine.

Favorite Quotes/Characters: My favorite character was a side character named Mac. He was real. I liked the way he talked and thought.

Bookshelf worthy? Eh. I'd borrow it from the library.

Teenability: 5 stars on the tenability; nothing to be concerned about.

I rate it 3.5 stars

A good mystery. Jacci is a great character with and interesting past. Not your typical book by any means. Very much enjoyed!

First, I have to say this cover drew me in, and represented the story within so well!
The setting of the showboat was mystical and intriguing.

This book was romantic and mysterious, and tenderly sweet. There were some great one liners in this story, and a great theme of healing from the past.

Sweet read and would definitely recommend!

"Sometimes great sacrifices must be made for love."

There was so many great quotes I could pull from this book, it was hard to narrow it down to just one. This one though makes me think of Jesus and his selfless sacrifice, which is similar to a mother's love for her child, and the great lengths that a good mother will go to protecting her children as she should.

The leading lady, Jacci Reed, (featured on the cover) is an actress working on a showboat with her Grandpa Duke and other interesting cast members. Together, they travel down the Ohio river putting on comedies and dramas for the locals.

It's a pretty fun story with great characters, early American charm, love and a mystery that keeps you on the very edge of your seat.

I also really liked the side couple, Ellie and Samuel and most of their marriage advice. They made a pretty hilarious team.

Trigger Warnings- death and suicide, a character with a terrible gambling addiction

Content warnings: there's not a lot here, but there are a few brief mentions of someone having a child out of wedlock, falling in love and being tempted to go too far, etc, but there's nothing too detailed or inappropriately written. A character is so caught up in winning the next game, he isn't a good father and is always gone.

Language- "freaking fish worms" used once when a character is shocked at the sight of blood loss. Fool is used once.

Overall, this was a great book with a totally different setting that I loved, and I'm happy to recommend it to most teen and adult readers (unless you have problems with the triggers mentioned above).

Thank you to the publisher and author for the complimentary paperback I received from LibraryThing, as well as the complimentary e-book I received through Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions above are my own.

In the Shadow of the River was the first book I’ve read by author Ann H. Gabhart. I was so impressed with her characters, so layered and unique. The romance was lovely and the mystery had me guessing to the end. Looking forward to more books by her.

I received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher. The opinions expressed are my own.

I got sucked right in! This is a great story of a young woman with a dark past. Jacci knows her past is a dark story. Her mother died trying to protect her. Now she lives with her grandfather on a show boat. Years later Jacci’s past is resurfaced and now her life is in danger. Can she discover her true life’s story before time runs out?
I really enjoyed this book! I like Jacci and found myself sucked right into her story! I would definitely recommend this book to any friends and family!

Ann H Gabhart’s novel In the Shadow of the River is one of those books that fills one with warmth, especially when read on a cold night. The vivid description of the novel’s era makes one yearn to be part of the era of the Kingston Floating Palace showboat.

An incident in Jacci’s life ushers her into a new life with a community of loved ones. I liked the character of Jacci, who, despite the tragedy and uncertainties in her life, accepts what she has been given to become who she is. The people on the Palace showboat, especially Gabe and Tyrone, all fit together to make this novel worth the read.

The prominent themes in this novel, embracing new beginnings, forgiveness and hope, are interwoven in this novel. It would have been good to know how some of the characters ended in this novel, as it felt that there were loose ends at the end. Perhaps their story will continue in subsequent books.

Overall, a very good novel to be read.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading In the Shadow of the River by Ann H. Gabhart. A fascinating story of life on a showboat, complete with secrets, danger, family, and romance. I was pulled into this story and completely captivated. I wish there was an epilogue, I wasn't quite ready for the story to end. I highly recommend this wonderful historical fiction tale!

I loved the premise of this book, but was unfortunately very disappointed in the pacing and execution. The first 9 chapters dragged and felt repetitive, and I thought it was an odd choice to have the main character be 5 years old for 25% of the book.

I struggled with the romance, especially since the MMC is described as a brother figure more than once by the FMC.

I enjoyed the setting on the showboat, and I would love to read more stories set on the river! Unfortunately, this one was a miss for me, but I would try another book by the author!

"In the Shadow of the River" by Ann H. Gabhart is a captivating historical novel that seamlessly blends elements of mystery, romance, and suspense. Set against the backdrop of the Kentucky River in the 1800s, this book offers a compelling narrative and well-drawn characters that transport readers to a bygone era.

One of the book's strongest aspects is Gabhart's ability to vividly depict the historical setting. The author's meticulous research and attention to detail bring the Kentucky River and its surrounding landscape to life. The rich descriptions of the lush scenery, the river's ebb and flow, and the cultural nuances of the time period create an immersive experience that allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the story.

The characters in "In the Shadow of the River" are well-developed and relatable, each with their own distinct personalities and motivations. The protagonist, Adria, is a strong-willed and determined woman who defies societal expectations of the time. Her journey of self-discovery and courage adds depth and resonance to the narrative. The supporting cast, including the enigmatic characters that Adria encounters along the way, contribute to the story's intrigue and keep readers guessing.

The narrative unfolds at a steady pace, blending historical details with a compelling mystery that keeps readers engaged. Gabhart skillfully weaves multiple storylines together, alternating between past and present, building suspense and anticipation. The gradual unraveling of secrets and the suspenseful twists and turns keep readers guessing and eager to uncover the truth.

Gabhart's writing style is evocative and lyrical, capturing the essence of the time period with eloquent prose. The author's descriptions of the natural surroundings and the characters' emotions are skillfully crafted, eliciting a range of emotions from readers. The dialogue feels authentic and reflective of the era, further enhancing the historical authenticity of the story.

While "In the Shadow of the River" is a captivating and well-executed novel, it does have a few minor drawbacks. Some readers may find certain plot developments predictable or reminiscent of other historical fiction novels. Additionally, a few secondary characters could have been further developed to enhance their impact on the story.

In conclusion, "In the Shadow of the River" is a captivating historical novel that effortlessly transports readers to a different time and place. Ann H. Gabhart's attention to detail, engaging characters, and compelling narrative make this book an enjoyable and immersive read. Despite a few minor flaws, it is recommended for fans of historical fiction who appreciate a well-researched and intricately woven story that blends mystery and romance in a memorable way.

Thanks to Netgalley and Revell for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

In the Shadow of the River
by Ann H. Gabhart
Revell
Christian | Historical Fiction



Revell and Netgalley have provided me with a copy of In the Shadow of the River for review:


If all the world is a stage, then Jacci will play her role.



Her only hope is that her story does not turn out to be tragic.



Five-year-old Jacci Reed is kidnapped from the steamboat her mother, Irena, works on in 1881. As a result of her wounds, Irena takes Jacci aboard the Kingston Floating Palace, a showboat that is moored nearby. It is here that Jacci's actor grandfather tends to her, and it is there that Jacci gets her first taste of the life she is soon to lead.



15 years later, Jacci is an actress aboard the Kingston Floating Palace, largely content with her adopted family of actors, singers, and dancers. Especially Gabe, who has always supported her, and her gruff grandfather, who she has come to know and love. It has been years since Jacci's mother died, but the memory of the altercation that ultimately resulted in her death--and the cryptic things Jacci has heard about her past--are always present in the back of her mind.



When someone on the showboat attempts to kill Jacci, it is evident that her questions need to be answered. Secrets, however, tend to remain hidden, and she will have a difficult time finding the answers she needs. It is Gabe's only hope that they will arrive in time for him and Jacci to be able to begin their future together.


I give In the Shadows of the River five out of five stars!


Happy Reading!

I loved this book! It was a very interesting book with a great setting. The characters were wonderfully done. It is a must read for historical fiction!

This historical Christian fiction novel completely swept me away. I was immediately entranced by the riverboats, Irena and her young daughter Jacci, and why they were hiding. The mystery woven throughout the story kept me hooked and I was page turning as quickly as I could read. I loved the show boats, the productions they put on, and the family they made with each other. Each character felt real to me by the end of the book. Jacci, Duke, Gabe, Marelda, Captain Dan, the list goes on and on. Gabhart transports the reader into the showboat family and makes them feel a part of everything that is happening. The theme of faith is woven throughout the story and it was just the right touch to this historical Christian fiction novel. The unique setting of a showboat on a river was unlike anything I have read before and made for a great historical read. I highly recommend In the Shadow of the River to any fan of historical Christian fiction! I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

“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 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.

The story opens in 1881 on the steamboat that Irena works on. She wakens her five-year-old daughter, Jaycee telling her they have to get away because someone is trying to kidnap Jaycee. Irena's plan was to reach the showboat next to them because her father worked there. They did make it, but not before Irena was badly injured. The story jumps ahead fifteen years and Jaycee is working on the showboat with her grandfather and their family of entertainers. She has memories of the past, but many unanswered questions remain. Suddenly, her life is threatened and the biggest question is why?

In this well told story readers meet a varied cast of characters and their lives on the river boat are vividly depicted. Jaycee has a complicated past that she doesn't fully understand. One evening, what appears to be yet another kidnapping attempt, she is taken to meet perhaps the one person who can answer her questions and she is warned she might be in danger. Should she believe what she has been told? As the story races towards its conclusion a shocking secret is revealed.

Romance, suspense and danger all come together to create an engrossing story. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Set on Riverboats, In the Shadow of the River, brings a mystery. It starts early from the points of view of 5 year old Jacci and her mother Irena. What unfolds in the early chapters takes the whole of the story to unravel. There are twists and turns and an ending that I am certain I did not see coming.

This is a well written and enthralling tale, ultimately set on a showboat. Jacci is embraced by the actors of the Kingston Floating Palace including her grandfather. Jacci comes to know nothing but this life, However, after a certain politician makes an appearance, questions that Jacci has had for years refuse to be silenced.

The mystery deepens when she finds herself in a perilous situation.

This is a gripping tale that may seem slow at times, but that is an illusion delivered by a master. Jacci and Gabe are a wonderful pair, he has loved her since she came to the boat and she just needed to grow up.

The mystery is subtle and picks up as things unfold. The answers come and some are unexpected. This was a wonderful story. There are faith building moments and moments of personal growth for both Jacci and Gabe that occur organically but not drawn out nor forced.

I received an early copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and this is my honest review.