Rebellious Heart
Hedlund (A Noble Groom) offers another beauty for fans of historical romance, unfolding an unlikely relationship in the midst of political and social machinations in pre-Revolutionary War Boston. This fast-paced drama draws the reader in quickly while introducing engaging characters who wrestle with ethical and emotional challenges. As tensions begin to flare between the king's soldiers and colonials, young lawyer Ben Ross finds himself winning court cases by day and smuggling molasses by night. He's drawn to Susanna Smith, an intelligent young socialite with a heart for the less fortunate, but Ben knows his common social status is no match for her mother's expectations. As their feelings for each other warm, Susanna struggles to reconcile her religious obligations and honoring her parents—duties that seem to conflict with her desires. Ben and Susanna form a growing, but seemingly impossible, bond while risking their lives to save an abused runaway. Both are faced with the same question affecting their personal and political loyalties: what is more important—doing what is right or obeying God-ordained authorities? Twin themes of faith and loyalty animate the story's conflict. Don't miss the author's note revealing her real-life inspiration for these characters. Agent: Rachelle Gardner, Books and Such Literary Agency. (Sept.)