The Finding of Miss Fairfield

 

About the Book: 

When an engagement of convenience becomes anything but convenient . . .

Forced into a betrothal with a widower twice her age, Charleston socialite, Sophia Fairfield is desperate for an escape. But, while her fiancé is away on business, he assigns his handsome stepson, Carver, the task of looking after his bride-to-be. Much to her dismay, Sophia finds herself falling in love with the wrong gentleman—a man society would never allow her to marry, given Sophia was supposed to be his new stepmother. The only way to save Carver from scandal and financial ruin is to run away, leaving him and all else behind to become a Harvey Girl waitress at the Castañeda Hotel in New Mexico.

Carver Ashton has had his life planned out for him since birth, but when he encounters Sophia Fairfield, he glimpses a new life—apart from his overbearing stepfather’s business. But, when the woman he loves disappears before he can express his devotion, Carver abandons all to find her. However, his stepfather has other intentions for Sophia and will stop at nothing until she is his bride . . . even if it is against her will.

My Review: 

How would you react if your parents decided to have you marry a man twice your age without your knowledge? I’d want to do what Sophia Fairfield did and run! I truly admired her and the courage it took to escape. 

The inner workings of the lavish Castaneda Hotel, its restaurant, and the Harvey Girls was very interesting. I not only enjoyed learning about them through Sophia’s experiences, but also feeling like you were one of the girls too. I am glad I got to experience it through the story without having to actually be a waitress!

Some stories have one villain, but we are treated to two despicable men. I couldn’t decide which one I despised more. I am glad that Sophia had a champion in Carver Ashton. He risked everything for her, and that showed his love in the most wonderful of ways. 

Seeing Sophia’s fears disappear as she trusts God and strikes out on her own was so rewarding. Her transformation was delightful to read. This is the first book in the Aprons and Veils, so it will be fun to see what other Harvey Girls will find love. 

I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.