Love's First Bloom

Delia Parr
2010
Bethany House
Fiction/Historical

Reviewed by Cindy Loven

Set in the 1830's, Ruth Livingstone finds herself in a position she never would have imagined.  Her father, controversial minister who ministers to the prostitutes in New York City, is being tried for the murder of one of the "fallen angels" he has managed to lead to the Lord.  Rosalie Peale, a young prostitute was found murdered and he has been accused of being her murderer.  He is greatly concerned for his daughter Ruth, and for Rosalie's sweet baby girl Lily, he makes plans to send her away, to the network of friends who help him save the young women from the streets of New York.
Ruth, finds herself living with a couple she doesn't know, and posing as a young widow who has been rescued by the minister.  Unable to share her true identity with anyone, she watches closely as the newspapers report the details of the trial of her father.  Breathing a sigh of relief at his acquittal, she is sure all will be fine and she can return home soon.  But that would not happen, as the public outcry against her father only grew, instead of quieting.  And then the sad news of his sudden death, Ruth finds herself an orphan taking care of an orphan.  What will happen to Ruth and baby Lily? 
Asher Tripp, wants to prove to his brother that he is a good reporter and that he can bring a story to the paper that will make a difference.  His brother knowing that the public outcry in Reverend Livingston's case is crying for his daughter to be found, sends Asher off on a search for Ruth Livingston.  Will Asher be able to tell the story of where Ruth has been, and what she has been doing, without destroying the friendship and feelings that have grown between them? 
A wonderful story, I truly enjoyed the story of Ruth and Lily and Asher.  I particularly identified with Ruth as she would become overwhelmed, forgetting that her help and strength comes from the Lord.  However she would remember and lean on Him and calm her fears.  Definitely a book to read this fall!!  316 pages US $14.99 4 stars.
This book was provided for review purposes only, no payment was received for this review.