Review: Interesting diary of a woman facing many obstacles
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 03 11, 2014
This historical fiction takes place in the late 1800s although certain aspects feel slightly more advanced. But, it's fiction.It's written in diary form by a woman named Hope. She kept her diary initially out of boredom, but quickly realized she needed a place to put down her thoughts and feelings.Hope is a child abuse victim at the hands of her father. She never told anyone about what had happened to her, but finally reveals this to a few men she cares about. However, that is not Hope's only problem. She falls in love with one of her black employees only to have her husband return from a business trip more caring than ever.She loves two men, has to deal with the repercussions of child abuse while a strange affliction slowly takes over body. Her diary is the one place to share all of these issues without judgment.Steinemann does a nice job of conveying all of the raw emotions onto the pages of Hope's diary. While she never lets you into the minds of the other characters, it doesn't take away from the book. In fact, it feels quite realistic.The Sapphire Brigade is a vigilante group that takes justice into its own hands when the law doesn't seem capable of helping those who cannot help themselves – child abuse victims.The Sapphire Brigade plays an instrumental role in Hope's life from apparently dealing with her father to helping her escape people who would want to harm her and her family after her affair with a black man.There is a lot going in Vanguard of Hope, however, Steinemman keeps it simple, so that it doesn't feel overwhelming. It was quick, enjoyable read.**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **