I just realized that I failed to post a review of a book I read back in July. It’s another one of those books that I could not put down and read straight through.
When Livy O’Brien spies a young boy jostling a man walking along the boardwalk, she recognizes the act for what it is. After all, she used to be known as Light-Fingered Livy. But that was before she put her past behind her and moved to the growing town of Chestnut, Illinois, where she’s helping to run an orphanage. Now she’ll do almost anything to protect the street kids like herself.
Sheriff’s deputy Jake Russell had no idea what he was in for when he ran into Livy—literally—while chasing down a pickpocket. With a rash of robberies and a growing number of street kids in town—as well as a loan on the family farm that needs to be paid off—Jake doesn’t have time to pursue a girl. Still, he can’t seem to get Livy out of his mind. He wants to get to know her better…but Livy isn’t willing to trust any man, especially not a lawman.
Stealing Jake is not only well written, but the characters are beyond likeable and have excellent motives behind their actions. I believe Livy O’Brien is one of my all time favorite characters to date. She’s confident in her newfound faith, caring, loving and bit brassy when it comes to rescuing those society would have thrown away.
I love the way Hillman counteracts the ugliness of child labor in the late 19th century with the goodness of Livy and Mrs. Brooks, the woman who runs the new orphanage. And of course, I love the romance between the former pick-pocket and the deputy. Stealing Jake is a must read and a definite keeper.
I only hope that Tyndale will one day decide to print Stealing Jake so it can sit on my bookshelf with the rest of the keepers.
*Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary digital copy of this book. Their generosity has in no way shape or form, yada, yada influenced my opinion of this product.
Oh, and by the way, Pam Hillman is holding a KindlePalooza curious? Go here.
One response to “Stealing Jake by Pam Hillman”
Renee, thank you for such a wonderful review of Stealing Jake.
I'm so glad you enjoyed the book and posted your thoughts on your blog.
God bless you!