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About this item
Highlights
- If all the world's a stage, Jacci will play her part.
- About the Author: Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of many novels, including When the Meadow Blooms, Along a Storied Trail, An Appalachian Summer, River to Redemption, These Healing Hills, and Angel Sister.
- 352 Pages
- Fiction + Literature Genres, Christian
Description
About the Book
Jacci Reed loves her life on the Ohio River in 1896 as part of the Kingston showboat family, but shadows of her past and the death of her mother linger in her memory. With the help of the showboat owners' son, can she find answers before those shadows overtake her and threaten her life?Book Synopsis
If all the world's a stage, Jacci will play her part.She only hopes her story does not turn out to be a tragedy.
In 1881, Jacci Reed is only five years old when a man attempts to kidnap her from the steamboat her mother, Irena, works on. Badly wounded during the confrontation, Irena takes Jacci aboard the Kingston Floating Palace, a showboat tied up beside them. There, Jacci's actor grandfather tends to her mother, and Jacci gets a first taste of the life she will come to lead.
Fifteen years later, Jacci is an actress aboard that same showboat and largely contented with her adopted family of actors, singers, and dancers. Especially Gabe, who has always supported her, and the gruff grandfather she has come to know and love. Jacci's mother has been gone for years, but the memory of the altercation that ultimately took her life--and the cryptic things Jacci has overheard about her past--is always there, lurking in the back of her mind.
When someone on the showboat tries to kill Jacci, it's clear her questions demand answers. But secrets have a way of staying in the shadows . . . and the answers she craves will not come easily.
"Gabhart delivers an atmospheric romance set on an 1890s showboat with plenty of secrets below deck."--Publishers Weekly
"Gabhart's masterful storytelling glows with personality and page-turning surprises."--Booklist
From the Back Cover
If all the world's a stage, Jacci will play her part.She only hopes her story does not turn out to be a tragedy.
In 1881, Jacci Reed is only five years old when a man attempts to kidnap her from the steamboat her mother, Irena, works on. Badly wounded during the confrontation, Irena takes Jacci aboard the Kingston Floating Palace, a showboat tied up beside them. There, Jacci's actor grandfather tends to her mother, and Jacci gets a first taste of the life she will come to lead.
Fifteen years later, Jacci is an actress aboard that same showboat and largely contented with her adopted family of actors, singers, and dancers. Especially Gabe, who has always supported her, and the gruff grandfather she has come to know and love. Jacci's mother has been gone for years, but the memory of the altercation that ultimately took her life--and the cryptic things Jacci has overheard about her past--is always there, lurking in the back of her mind.
When someone on the showboat tries to kill Jacci, it's clear her questions demand answers. But secrets have a way of staying in the shadows . . . and the answers she craves will not come easily.
About the Author
Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of many novels, including When the Meadow Blooms, Along a Storied Trail, An Appalachian Summer, River to Redemption, These Healing Hills, and Angel Sister. She and her husband live on a farm a mile from where she was born in rural Kentucky. Ann enjoys discovering the everyday wonders of nature while hiking in her farm's fields and woods with her grandchildren and her dogs, Frankie and Marley. Learn more at www.annhgabhart.com.Dimensions (Overall): 8.51 Inches (H) x 5.6 Inches (W) x .97 Inches (D)
Weight: .69 Pounds
Suggested Age: 22 Years and Up
Sub-Genre: Christian
Genre: Fiction + Literature Genres
Number of Pages: 352
Publisher: Fleming H. Revell Company
Theme: Historical
Format: Paperback
Author: Ann H Gabhart
Language: English
Street Date: May 9, 2023
TCIN: 87920640
UPC: 9780800741723
Item Number (DPCI): 247-29-0174
Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
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Estimated ship dimensions: 0.97 inches length x 5.6 inches width x 8.51 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.69 pounds
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4.7 out of 5 stars with 12 ratings
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4.6 out of 5 stars with 14 reviews
100% would recommend
14 recommendations
Showboat Romance and Intrigue
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Fitzysmom - 2 years ago
Ann Gabhart has such a knack for telling stories about tenacious women. This time around we actually get the story of two such women. Jacci Reed and her mother Irena are the epitome of tenacious. We meet them when Jacci is just five and follow them until Jacci is well into adulthood. The story is at times gut-wrentching yet it is also intriguing. They both live their lives on a river boat. Irena is a maid but Jacci is a performer on the Kingston Floating Palace. I found it very interesting to peek behind the curtain and see how life is behind the stage. Along with the interesting aspects of stage life there is also a dark side to this story. Evil is lurking in the shadows and Jacci seems to be the intended target. She finds herself in some narrow escapes that lead to more questions than answers. I enjoyed this story immensely. Strong characters. Interesting plot line. And an ending that was unexpected but satisfying.
Great Tale!
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Sue - 2 years ago
In the Shadow of the River, by Ann H. Gebhart, Jacci shares her journey of being raised on a showboat. She knows so much of her past, but at the same time it is so little. The first part of the historical romance fiction shares Jacci’s childhood and the traumatic events that ensued. In the second part of the novel, Jacci is picking up the pieces of her life and trying to move on. She is content to be a showboat actress and enjoys her adopted family. Gabe is just like an older brother, or is he? And what about the parts in her past that she does remember? How does she reconcile those memories? What about the memories of her late mother? How can she reconcile those? Who knows the truth? In the Shadow of the River is a fantastic historical fiction. I thoroughly enjoyed the story. I did enjoy the tales set in the 1880s. Reading about showboat life was interesting. The story was well written by the author. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review. I do recommend In the Shadow of the River.
UNUSUAL AND ENTERTAINING!
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Moonpie - 2 years ago
To say this is a riveting story is to put it mildly! It grabs your attention from the very first page and moves you along just like the flowing river. An act of unprovoked violence changes 5 year old Jacci Reed’s life forever. As a child she is grieving and overwhelmed by the death of her mother. Her father comes and goes out of her life unpredictably so he cannot take her. She is left in the care of her grandfather, Duke, who had rarely been involved in her life. He was an actor on the Kingston Floating Palace showboat. The story fast forwards to 15 years later where she has grown into a young woman and the star of the Palace. Jacci is as sweet and innocent as she is beautiful. Her life is content and happy. She has wondered about her past but no one will tell her the truth. Circumstances come about and the secrets of her past can no longer be kept. Her life is even in danger. This was a fantastic story in many ways. Learning about life on a showboat in the 1800’s was so interesting. The day in and day out commitment of performers living out their lives on a floating home intrigued me. I assumed there would be a great deal of boredom but I learned about their peace and contentment. I was touched by the closeness of the performers and crew members. They every bit family although most were not blood related. Their warmth and devotion to one another made me feel a sense of belonging. One of my favorite characters was Aunt Tildy, the elderly black cook on the boat. She kept everyone in line and was no nonsense but very loving and tender hearted. I enjoyed the many nuggets of wisdom she shared and her strong faith in God. The special treats she fixed for everyone after a show created such a family atmosphere. I loved the suspense and mystery and especially the surprise ending! This story is filled with faith, forgiveness, loyalty and finding unexpected love. As I write this review I can picture myself standing on the deck of the boat, watching the river flow by and even going to sleep the rocking of the boat. I received this book from Revell Publishing in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated are my own.
Beautiful Story of True Family Ties
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
BlessednBookish - 2 years ago
In the Shadow of the River is my second book by this author, and I have come to love how beautifully she writes genuine, relatable, and likable characters. I enjoyed the tightly-knit, quirky showboating family in this story. Each of the characters is so colorful and memorable. I can’t imagine the fun to be had while aboard The Floating Palace! And yet, within its cabins, there are the heavy and uncomfortable truths of life pressing down on its crew. The mystery surrounding Jacci’s birth and the danger that follows her will keep you turning the pages of this novel, but so will the slow-burn romance between Gabe and Jacci. Overall, I enjoyed this story and its themes of what makes a true family. I will remember these characters long after I’ve closed this book. I can’t express how raw and honest of a story Ann H. Gabhart writes. It is beautiful and tragic and inspirational–all at once! I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Fun Summer Read!
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
- 2 years ago
First off, isn't this cover absolutely beautiful? This story takes place on a showboat on the Ohio River in the 1890's and this setting had me intrigued from the start. It was a lot of fun to read a story with this setting and I really enjoyed the cast of characters. This book had a bit of everything in it from drama, mystery, historical setting and romance. The mystery is what kept me reading this book, I really enjoyed the mystery around Jacci and her mother. I would actually categorize this book as more historical mystery than romance, the mystery was really the focal point of the story. When it comes to the romance in this book, I have to say that it didn't work for me, the two characters had more of a brother/sister relationship throughout majority of the book and it was a bit weird when their relationship became romantic and it felt very forced. There were some faith elements throughout the story where the characters prayed and there were also themes of mercy and grace throughout as well. I really enjoyed the plot of this book; I think if the romance was executed differently than it would have been a 5-star read for me. I did enjoy my time reading this book and I look forward to reading more of Ann Gabhart's books! Thank you to Baker Publishing and Revell for providing a copy to honestly read and review.
Historical Fiction and Mystery
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
VickleaW - 2 years ago
Historical in that the story is set on a showboat in the late 1800’s, but mostly mystery, this book captivated me with its fast-paced action and authentic details. I was captured from the first moment that little Jacci was introduced, only five years old and already facing being an orphan. She knows that there is a mystery surrounding her life even as she enthusiastically embraces her life as a performer on the showboat, but that is not at the forefront of her mind all the time. The romance between Gabe and Jacci is predictable and sweet, but it is not the center of the story either. The central focus of the story is secretive background that others are hiding from Jacci, her roots and her heritage that eventually she is determined to uncover. Ann H. Gabhart methodically tells the story in an addictive way, teasingly revealing details slowly and giving the plot multiple layers and great depth. The characters are realistic and relatable, with real tears falling from my eyes over little Jacci’s losses and her dilemma. As the story progresses, the characters change and grow, so they are dynamic and so believable. The plot is clever, with history and faith woven into the main story that is as complex as it is riveting. I learned a great deal about life on a showboat from this book and enjoyed my journey down the river with Jacci and Gabe. This is a satisfying, brilliantly written historical fiction with a compelling mystery in the center of it. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
RIPPLES ON THE RIVER OF LIFE
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Connywithay - 2 years ago
“Hurry now. The show must go on, and everybody loves a show,” little Jacci is told in Ann H. Gabhart’s novel, In the Shadow of the River. ~ What ~ This three-hundred-and-fifty-two-page paperback targets those interested in a historical romance set on a showboat. With no profanity, topics of abuse, illness, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending includes an excerpt from another book by the writer, acknowledgments, the author’s biography, and advertisements. In this story based in 1881 on a river, young Jacci and her mother are forced to flee the steamboat where they live and escape to a showboat after encountering a nefarious man. Enamored by the lure of the spotlight, the beautiful girl loves to be on stage and play her part. As she uncovers the secrets of her past, she must put on an act to find out the truth, even if it involves Gabe, a friend who is like a brother to her. ~ Why ~ This is an interesting read as it travels down the river of Jacci’s life from a young child to a grown-up woman and how she deals with her genealogy and upbringing. I liked the descriptions of living on a showboat and the characters who put on shows at every town they docked. Noting our Lord being our finest protector is heartwarming and true. ~ Why Not ~ Those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ may not like the references to God and praying to Him. Others may not care for tales of actors and showmen vying for position and attention. The romance is rather predictable but realistic. ~ Wish Being a Christian read with God mentioned, it would have been nice to have the eternal plan of salvation clearly stated. I wish all pronouns of God were capitalized for reverence. Adding discussion questions might be helpful for book clubs. ~ Want ~ If you like a story of the ongoing ripples of the river of life on a showboat with the undertow of a woman finding herself, this is a good read. Thanks to Revell for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
intriguing
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
grammy - 2 years ago
First I want to say that I received an ARC of the book from Revell Reads through Netgalley. A positive review is not required and all thoughts are my own. I asked to read and review this book for several reasons. First, I enjoy books by this author, Ann H Gabhart. Second, I enjoy Christian fiction, especially historical fiction. Third, the novel setting intrigued me. This story is part mystery, part history, and a little bit of love story. The book was well-developed though not deep. It was an easy read. It kept my interest throughout. It was also definitely a Christian book without being preachy or pushy. It showed that a true Christian draws closer to God when times get rough. This book also looks at what is really a family. The characters were quite well developed though not deep. I figured out the bad character easily but not the motives. If you like historical fiction that is clean without any vulgarity you will enjoy this book. I give it a strong 4 out of 5-star rating.
In the Shadow of the River
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
amybooksy - 2 years ago
In the Shadow of the River is yet another awesome book I have read by Ann H Gabhart. I loved getting to know Jacci and seeing through her eyes of what it was like to be on a nineteenth century showboat. It was sweet to see her and Gabe together. I thought her story of mystery and suspense was one that kept me wanting to find out what were the past secrets to be revealed. I loved it. In the Shadow of the River will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical romance. As always I will be looking forward to more releases to come from Ann H Gabhart. I believe this one should not be missed. I received a paperback copy of In the Shadow of the River from the author, but was not required to write a review, nor a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Recommended
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
ChritianFictionandMore - 2 years ago
Ann H. Gabhart has written a perfect mixture of historical fiction, mystery, and just a touch of romance. As always her characters are unique and memorable. There are those readers will love and root for, and those they will hope are foiled in their efforts. Jacci Reed's life has been filled with secrets since her birth; secrets that she had tried to put behind her as a young child always seemed to hover around the edges of her awareness. Now at the age of twenty those secrets have placed her in danger, with no way of knowing from which way the danger would arise. I thoroughly enjoyed reading In the Shadow of the River. Ann H. Gabhart is one of those authors whose work I try never to pass up. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
In the Shadow of the River
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Pam K - 2 years ago
The majority of this book is set on a river showboat. After a tragedy, Jacci Reed grows up with her grandfather on the showboat belonging to the Kingston family. Her grandfather is an actor and Jacci fit right in with the life of acting and singing on the river. There is a bit of a mystery concerning Jacci's past and why (and who) someone would want to do her harm. She was accepted as family by the Kingston family, but Gabe, who is eight years older, was always quick to remind her he wasn't really her brother. It was a nice change to have a red-headed hero. Aunt Tildy is a wise and wonderful character. Forgiveness is a theme in the story that was well done, as was the faith aspect. Ann Gabhart is a natural storyteller and though this book is a bit different than her usual, it still has all the aspects for which she is known. I always know I will very much enjoy a novel by this author and I certainly had my expectations met In the Shadow of the River. I received a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Exquisite
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Lucy Reynolds - 2 years ago
What an interesting piece of history that I never really considered before. This novel delves into what life was like living on a showboat in 1881 and like the river it is about this story meanders along until it carries faster as the riffles tug it into a faster pace. A beautiful story of love, faith, and family whether that family is by blood or circumstances. I absolutely loved the characters and was carried away to laughter and tears as Jacci’s story unfolded into a sacrificial act of love and courage. Throw in secrets, betrayal, and enough suspense to wonder who and why and you have a novel that engrosses you from beginning to end. A poetic storyline that tugs on your heartstrings as the shadows envelop while seeking the truth. An absolute must read from the exquisite cover to the beauty on the pages. I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
Good Reading!
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Sunnie Reviews - 2 years ago
Jacci Reed has some rough beginnings and life leads her to be a part of a showboat group which becomes close to family for her. She enjoys the people that are on the boat and it becomes her entire life. However, her past seems to follow her and life has it's changes which bring danger and fear. This is a lovely story that was well developed and had very interesting characters, some definitely better than others, which makes for a good story. There is a bit of mystery, and romance and a sweet story that kept me engaged and reading. I really liked it and it was a part of history that was very unique and new to me. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
Great Mystery
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Thoughtsofareader - 2 years ago
This book says it is a historical romance but it seems to me to be more mysterious than romantic. However, the romance part of the book also does not seem like your typical romance at the beginning of the book which is the love between a couple. To me, the romance is the love between a family. Farther into the novel there does seem to be some subtle typical romance starting but still for me it takes a backseat to the mystery of the story. Even though some historical novels can read slow, for me, this one did not because of the conundrum of it all. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. The opinions in this review are my own.