In Ellen’s Shoes by Emily Beeson

I love historical fiction. And, this one is special because it’s about the author’s family. The story wound itself within the double helix of Emily Beeson’s family and emerged in this beautiful poignant tale of love, heartache, and redemption.

The heroine, Ellen Breakell, sat in their family pew guilt enveloping her like an evil shroud.

“Maybe an angel of God would swoop down from the heavens and cast her out like Eve from the garden. She lifted her eyes to the gothic-arched windows, pillars, and rose window, constructed to instill awe in the church’s parishioners. They weighed upon her, mocking the sinner within.”

Ellen’s trek through a life ripe with the joy of true love, motherhood and salvation is trussed with despondency and despair like cords of darkness binding light. However, hope springs eternal, and one of my favorite things about the book, our Savior’s redemptive love triumphs. Ellen’s immigrant discrimination and religious persecution are overcome through her and her husband’s devotion, sacrifice and obedience.

And, just when you think it’s all over, the end of the book sails in and touches your heart with unexpected elation bringing shivers and tears of sheer joy. I was exultant upon discovering in the author notes that this heart-rendering part of the story was true.

Thank you, Emily, for sharing your family history and your heart.