River to Redemption by Ann H. Gabhart is a historical novel about a young woman, Adria Starr, who seeks justice after being saved during the cholera epidemic by a heroic enslaved man. Adria was orphaned during the cholera epidemic in 1833. She was rescued by Louis, who is a slave. Louis remained in Springfield, Kentucky, while those who could afford to leave had fled the city. Louis sacrificed his chance to escape his bondage to care for the sick and bury the dead.
Twelve years later, Louis’s master passed away, and his owner’s children wish to sell him despite what he has done for their family and the city, as he would fetch a high price. Adria, now nineteen, has never forgotten how Louis protected and cared for her when she was a child. She is determined to find a way to purchase Louis’s freedom, but she worries that not everyone will share her views.
The novel is partly based on a true story. It is an interesting read, though it doesn’t feature unexpected surprises or twists. While the book generally maintains a steady pace, it becomes somewhat repetitive and slow at times. I appreciated that the author included the inspiration behind the story. It is heartwarming to learn that people can recognize the humanity in one another, especially in a time when some individuals were “invisible” and regarded as property.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and were not influenced by the publisher or author.
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