This is the second book in The Saddler's Legacy series. Sweeter than Birdsong is a fictionalized account of the relationship between real-life abolitionist songwriter Ben Hanby and Kate Winter, one of the first women to graduate from Otterbein College in Ohio.
Painfully shy Kate is dominated by her overbearing mother and confused by her absent, alcoholic father. Her quiet beauty attracts the attention of several suitors, and her inability to express herself makes one wonder if she'll ever be able to take control of her life.
Ben Hanby wants to end slavery in America, by helping escaped slaves, by teaching children, and by songwriting. He especially wants to help Nelly Gray, a slave whose husband died in his home while trying to get to freedom. His obsession with helping Nelly causes a string of events that tie Ben and Kate together.
The relationship of Kate and Ben is charming, and their prayers to God for help are well-placed and not over-done. They develop nicely as characters, and the romance in the novel will please readers of Christian romance. ( )

Sweeter Than Birdsong continues the story of the Hanby family which started in Fairer Than Morning. (I reviewed Fairer Than Morning last fall.) I enjoyed Kate and Ben's story, and I especially identified with Kate, who had an incredible fear of public speaking. Her journey—from a painfully quiet wallflower to a still quiet yet confident woman with powerful convictions—was especially inspiring.

The portrayal of the Underground Railroad is one history buffs will enjoy, and the fact that the story is based on real people makes it seem that much more lifelike. While this isn't a book that I loved, I liked it a lot, so I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Originally published at http://christianchicksthoughts.blogspot.com/2012/02/sweeter-than-birdsong-by-ros... ( )

Name: Sweeter than Birdsong
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Author: Rosslyn Elliott

A story that takes place in Ohio, back in the days of slavery (1855) about a young woman who lives with her parents. Her mother is very unhappy and her father is an alcoholic.

Kate wishes to become the first woman to graduate from her local collage, however, she is very shy and cannot speak in front of her peers. Will she over come that and be the first woman to graduate there?

Kate's mother wishes to marry her off to an influential family, and the gentleman is more than welcome to oblige. We he seek her hand in marriage?

But, Kate has some ideas of her own. She finagles a trip with some family friends and has an adventure of her own. How will this change our shy Kate?

A wonderful story, although slow moving, of different times, that the author has definitely done her homework on.

BookSneeze: Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Blog link: http://kathysscraps.blogspot.com/2012/02/book-review-sweeter-than-birdsong.html ( )

This is the second book I've read by Ms. Elliot telling the tale of the Hanby family. This book turns the life of Ben Hanby into a very interesting novel. Ben Hanby wrote "Up on the Rooftop" as well as some other songs popular in his day and he was very involved with the underground railroad. He falls in love with young Kate Winter but her mother, haunted by her own mistakes, feels that Ben is not good enough for her daughter. Kate's father is an abusive alcoholic and the Winter's try to hide this from their community.

The book was well written and while I cannot call it and easy read - solely due to the subject matter - it was a good read. The romance between the two main characters built slowly and in a true fashion for the time. The period details were written such that I felt completely involved in time and place. It is fascinating to learn about seemingly ordinary people in our history that risked their lives to help slaves escape through the Underground Railroad. I will look forward to the next chapter in Ms. Elliot's series. ( )

SWEETER THAN BIRDSONG by Rosslyn Elliott is an exciting inspirational historical roman set in 1855 Westerville, Ohio. This is the second in “The Saddler’s Legacy”,but can be read as a stand alone. See ” Fairner Than Morning”. The characters will not only capture your heart in this wonderful story but will leave you in awe as you read the story of Kate Winter and Ben Hanby. This author has brought a by-gone era into focus with her vivid descriptions of the Underground Railroad,the people involved,the challenges of those people,their secrets,romance,and their freedom.”Sweeter Than Birdsong” is a complex,compelling story with dark secrets and faith. Another must read. While, “Sweeter Than Birdsong” is a bit slow to start it picks up the pace quickly and carries you away with the characters,era,music,and place of refuge. A great read for anyone who enjoys historical,Americana,the Underground Railroad,romance,and inspirational. Received for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group and the publisher. Details can be found at Thomas Nelson,the author’s website, and My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews.

RATING: 4

HEAT RATING: SWEET

REVIEWED BY: AprilR,My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews ( )