Bachelor Buttons - Murray Pura's American Civil War Series - Cry Of Freedom - Volume 3 by Kathleen L. Maher

5.0 out of 5 stars Well Done!

Book Description

The daughter of immigrants who fled the Irish Potato Famine, Rose Meehan longs for a better life than the tenements of New York City. Courted by two men--a young doctor who represents material security, and a poor violin instructor who has captured her heart--she must choose between a life of advantage-grabbing or a life of faith. When Manhattan explodes in mob rule following Lincoln's unpopular draft, the heroic action of one suitor brings provision for those she loves, and reveals God's plan. 

Biography

Kathleen L. Maher’s novella Bachelor Buttons releases through Helping Hands Press in May, 2013 as part of a Civil War sesquicentennial collection. Her manuscript Closer than a Brother won the historical category of ACFW’s Genesis contest in 2012. Her work has finaled in several writing contest since 2009. She is represented by Terry Burns of Hartline Literary Agency. 
Kathleen blogs about New York State history and enjoys reading and writing reviews for historical CBA releases. She and her husband live in a 100-year-old farmhouse in upstate NY with their three children. Two rescued Newfoundland dogs and a tuxedo cat complete their family.

My Review ~

Kathleen Maher has woven a poignant narrative based on events that took place in Manhattan at a volatile time in American history, the Civil War. The draft had been instituted which affected all young men except freed slaves who were exempt from fighting the war, and those with money who found ways around the draft. Bitterness and anger built among those fearing the draft, which led to rioting and violence in the city. A successful doctor and a poor Irishman vie for the attention of one beautiful young Irish woman, and the details of this love triangle contain numerous elements including colorful characters, a bit of humor, and some seriously intense issues. 

Drawing upon actual events involving her ancestors brings a very personal element to the characters in this novella. This presentation is authentic, descriptive and well detailed, and a great deal of information is incorporated into this brief story. The author has done an outstanding job researching her material. Characters are strong and the story is told with wonderful detailing of relationships and the incidents that took place during this period of time.