The couple stifled smiles and nodded.
“We are gathered here together—”
Rachel wailed her way into the ceremony. The small gathering turned at the commotion. Sighing resolutely, Elizabeth tugged her arm free.
Jack held up his hand. “I’ll handle this.”
He strode down the aisle and retrieved the red-faced baby from a fretting Mrs. Smith. Cradled in the safety of Jack’s arm, the wailing ceased.
The minister released his pent-up breath.
Jack returned and tucked Elizabeth against his other side. “I’ve got my daughter. We’re ready to begin.”
“Oh, Jack.” Elizabeth rested her head against his shoulder. She had everything she’d ever prayed for. Beneath the sure knowledge of God’s love, her family had come together.
Their daughter slept through the whole ceremony.
* * * * *
Dear Reader,
I hope you enjoyed Jack and Elizabeth’s journey of faith and love as much as I enjoyed writing their story. I began this book with my own journey. I prayed that I was worthy of writing a Love Inspired book. Together with Elizabeth, I traversed a frigid, snowy winter and discovered my place in God’s love.
This book will always hold a very special place in my heart. I never had a chance to meet my mother-in-law, Rita, but we both dreamed of writing for Harlequin. When I decided to write a romance, my in-laws gifted me with treasured boxes of her manuscripts. Rita inspires me to live each day to the fullest.
I love to hear from readers. Contact me at [email protected], or visit my website and blog at sherrishackelford.com.
Sherri Shackelford
Questions for Discussion
Elizabeth’s first husband was jovial and kind when they first met, but soon revealed a darker side. Looking back, Elizabeth realizes there were signs of his true character all along. Have you ever known a person who turned out to be a wolf in sheep’s clothing? When you look back on the relationship, can you see the early signs that may have been disguised by their engaging manner?
Elizabeth has had little spiritual guidance during her life. She worries her prayers are causing more harm than good. Can you think of ways your prayers have changed throughout your life as you grow and mature in your relationship with Jesus?
Even though Jo did a fine job of delivering the baby, she experiences strong emotions in the aftermath. Can you think of a situation where you accomplished a difficult task, only to be emotionally overwhelmed hours or even days later?
Jack is furious when he discovers that Elizabeth has risked her life to find help in a blizzard. Can you recall a time when you were so worried, the emotion of fear manifested in anger?
Jo and Jack often bicker, though it’s clear they have a mutual respect for each other. Why do you think they enjoy antagonizing each other so much?
Elizabeth wants a closer relationship with Jesus, but she’s uncertain how to proceed. What advice would you give Elizabeth to help her on her spiritual journey?
Jack is fearful of developing a bond with Elizabeth and Rachel because of the horrors he’s seen in his job. Do you think Jack was right to protect himself from pain?
Elizabeth initially hides the truth about her late husband from Jack. Is there ever a time when a lie of omission is justified?
Jack showed his love for Elizabeth in his actions before he admitted his feelings. Name some of the ways Jack showed his affection.
Elizabeth is able to forgive her mother when she is faced with her own difficult choice. Can you think of a time when your opinion changed because a similar experience gave you greater insight?
We hope you enjoyed this Harlequin Love Inspired Historical title.
You find illumination in days gone by. Love Inspired Historical stories lift the spirit as heroines tackle the challenges of life in another era with hope, faith and a focus on family.
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ISBN: 9781459230972
Copyright © 2012 by Sherri Shackelford
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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events or locales is entirely coincidental. This edition published by arrangement with Harlequin Books S.A.
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