Band of Sisters by Cathy Gohlke

Book Description:  Maureen O’Reilly and her younger sister flee Ireland in hope of claiming the life promised to their father over twenty years before. After surviving the rigors of Ellis Island, Maureen learns that their benefactor, Colonel Wakefield, has died. His family, refusing to own his Civil War debt, casts her out. Alone, impoverished, and in danger of deportation, Maureen connives to obtain employment in a prominent department store. But she soon discovers that the elegant facade hides a secret that threatens every vulnerable woman in the city.

Despite her family’s disapproval, Olivia Wakefield determines to honor her father’s debt but can’t find Maureen. Unexpected help comes from a local businessman, whom Olivia begins to see as more than an ally, even as she fears the secrets he’s hiding. As women begin disappearing from the store, Olivia rallies influential ladies in her circle to help Maureen take a stand against injustice and fight for the lives of their growing band of sisters. But can either woman open her heart to divine leading or the love it might bring?

My Thoughts:  Wow! This read contains a lot of emotion.  

First of all, Maureen and her younger sister have no hope in Ireland and so they flee to America. 

I like the way Cathy Gohlke brings Ellis Island and the whole ordeal of coming to America to life.  

Coming to America was not easy for the two sisters and once they arrive everything seems to fall apart...their benefactor has passed away and his family does not/will not help Maureen.

The job at the elegant store seems like a godsend to Maureen.    

The way the women are disappearing is a mystery but Maureen begins a search of her own when her sister goes missing. What she finds is stunning.  Oh!My! I didn't see this coming. The deceit, lies, corruption make for quite an emotional roller coaster but hope reigns!

A captivating read of God's grace!

*Tyndale*

List Price:

13.99 

ISBN:

978-1-4143-5308-1 

Trim Size:

5 1/2 x 8 1/4 

Binding:

Softcover 

Release:

September 2012