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Cover of Lovelier than Daylight

Lovelier than Daylight

  • Fiction
  • Publisher: Thomas Nelson
  • Published: 2012

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Publisher's Description

Susanna is a lady of principles who values family above all. Johann seems to represent all she despises... but appearances can be deceiving. In 1875, Susanna Hanby is headed off to college in Westerville, Ohio, when she discovers her sister Rachel and Rachel’s children have disappeared. Susanna suspects that Rachel’s alcoholic husband knows more than he’s saying and she vows to uncover the truth. Johann Giere is heir to a successful German-American brewery in Columbus, but longs for a career in journalism in New York City. When Johann signs on as the supplier for a new saloon in Westerville, his and Susanna’s paths cross and sparks fly. A fiery temperance crusader, Susanna despises Johann’s profession, but she cannot deny the attraction. When Susanna learns that Rachel’s children have been indentured to orphanages in the city, she despairs that her family will be fractured forever. But Johann makes Susanna an offer she can’t refuse—pitting her passion and her principles against one another. If she can find a way for her head and her heart to be in harmony, a future lovelier than daylight awaits her. Lovelier than Daylight is a story of love and faith based on the Westerville Whiskey War of 1875, a dramatic real historical event featured in the 2011 documentary Prohibition by Ken Burns. “[S]howcases a fascinating episode of American history, interweaving romance, suspense, and historical detail with unusual depth and realism.” —Laura Frantz, author of Love’s Reckoning and The Colonel’s Lady


Endorsements (7)

“Lovelier than Daylight showcases a fascinating episode of American history, interweaving romance, suspense, and historical detail with unusual depth and realism. Skillfully and sensitively told, the story is a beautiful portrayal of God’s redeeming work and of love triumphing over all. Another moving, memorable novel by author Rosslyn Elliott!”

Laura Frantz

“With a page-turning plot, endearing characters, captivating prose, and a theme that transcends time and genre, Lovelier than Daylight had moments of such raw honesty I had to stop to fully absorb them. Not only does Elliott know how to tell a compelling story, she knows how to explore a sensitive topic from all angles, which will surely elicit lively conversation among reading groups. An incredibly satisfying ending to a beautiful series.”

Katie Ganshert

“In Lovelier Than Daylight, Rosslyn Elliott takes her reader by the hand and leads them through the portal of time, back to 1875 in small-town Ohio, where things are about to get rather explosive. Beautiful prose, stunning scenes, dramatic dialogue, and a touch of mystery are carefully woven throughout the story. Elliott tackles the difficult subject of temperance with grace and prowess, careful not to choose sides, but delivers the very clear message that in all things, even where there are no easy answers, God is sovereign. Another delightful read from this wonderful author!”

Catherine West

“Fairer than Morning is a fabulous debut! Rosslyn Elliott has not so much written a story, but crafted a tale with a dedication to depth and detail equal to that of the artisan she brings to life . . . Rosslyn Elliott is a welcome new voice, almost luxurious. Readers deserve this indulgence.”

Allison Pittman

“Fairer than Morning is a book to savor. As you read this exquisitely written story, the present fades and you are drawn into a tale of cruelty, honor, love and deliverance. When you reach the last page you close the book wishing for more. However Rosslyn Elliott’s characters will go with you, forever embedded in your heart.”

Bonnie Leon

“Rosslyn Elliott weaves a gripping story full of fascinating historical details. She creates realistic and poignant characters who touch your heart with a message of true grace and forgiveness. Fairer than Morning is the kind of book you’ll think about long after you read the last page.”

Jody Hedlund

“A novelist to watch! Elliott excels at bringing a by-gone era to life with all of its charm and its flaws. An unhesitating indictment of cruelty and a celebration of the freedom of spirit which can only be found in God.”

Siri Mitchell

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