"Across the Wide River" Blog Tour

Across the Wide River

A Novel

 by Stephanie Reed

Freedom.

Some take it for granted.

Others consider it worth dying for.

Lowry Rankin knows all too well the cost of freedom; after all, his family’s red brick home is the first stop on the Underground Railroad north of the Ohio River.


He’s seen friends beaten for the color of their skin. He’s watched simple farmers make a difference. He’s even risked his own life transporting escaped slaves to the next "station". But will Lowry be able to conquer his greatest fear when he’s called to speak out?

About the Author:

During her childhood, Stephanie Reed’s family would often pass through Ripley on their way to her grandparents’ home. The signs she read there about the Rankin house were what prompted her to write Across the Wide River and The Light Across the River. After working for nearly a decade with the Dayton Metro Library, Stephanie is now a volunteer spotter for the National Weather Service. She lives with her husband and two children in Dublin, Ohio.

http://www.stephanielreed.com/

My Take:

Across the Wide River is probably the most truly historical fiction book I have ever read. Historical fiction is my favorite genre of book, but I tend to enjoy novels that are set in historical time periods and tell a completely fictional story rather than ones that are based on actual people in history.  

This was not the case for me with this book. The historical account of the Rankin family, Lowry in particular, was made into a story so well that it was neither boring nor dry. The characters come alive and you feel their turmoil as they face their fears and insecurities during such uncertain times.

At times I felt the scene changes or character changes were a little hard to follow, but overall it was easy to read. I also felt the book was a little too short! I wanted to know more! :)

This novel is a well-researched historical story that was compelling and informative. It makes you think about what is important and that you should stand up for what is right.

Thank you to Ms. Reed and to Kregel Publications for the opportunity to review this book.

I will give Across the Wide River ... 4 1/2 BookWorms!

Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received this book free from the author and Kregel Publications through a Blog Tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this is accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”