Across the Wide River by Stephanie Reed

About the Author:
During her childhood, Stephanie Reed’s family would often pass through Ripley on their way to her grandparents’ home.  The signs she read about the Rankin House were what prompted her to write this story. 
Synopsis:
Lowery Rankin has seen the horrors of slavery.  He has witnessed friends beaten because of the color of their skin.  He risked his life helping refugees get to freedom.  He feels he is being called by God to fulfill this mission but at times feels as though he is a failure in his life.  He acts with courage when he helps a refugee but feels he does not show courage when confronted about his beliefs about slavery.  Throughout the book Lowery battles to conquer his greatest fear.  He must learn to speak up with conviction about his stance on this issue that means so much to him.
My Reaction:
Ms.Reed has written a novel of the pre-civil war era that plunges the reader into the depths of this era.  She successfully captures the drama and dangers that are rampant in this period of American History.  I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about this time in our history.
Disclaimer:
I received this book from Kregel Publications in exchange for a review.  I was not required to write a positive review only that the review is honest.  The opinions expressed in this review are solely mine.