The Governess by Kristen McKendry + Giveaway

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"Sometimes what you find is better than what you seek." (cover)
Title:  The Governess
Author:  Marlene Bateman
Publisher:  Covenant Communications, Inc.
Release Date:  October 10, 2016
Genre: Inspirational Historical Fiction


For Kate Porter in 1880s Canada, working as a governess is simply a means to an end, and she aspires to a high-society future that will lift her out of her middle-class existence. When she accepts a new position as tutor to Alonzo Colaco's children, she sees it as a step in the direction of her dreams. She eagerly envisions a grand house awaiting her...but when her new employer meets her at the train station driving a gaily painted gypsy wagon, Kate suspects her new job will not be all she anticipated.

 Kate finds herself living in the woods in a refitted train car as she teaches the charming children of Alonzo, a tinker by trade. After trying in vain to secure another job, Kate is left with little choice. She must simply bide her time until a better position comes along. Soon, however, she abandons her preconceptions along with her bustle in favor of the joys of a simple life---and the possibility of true love. But when opportunity knocks, will Kate really be ready to walk away from all she has come to care about to pursue her high-society dreams?


Unexpected is the first word I can think of when it came to The Governess by Kristen McKendry, and in a good way too. Kate Porter had determination as well as dreams, which I didn't find too lofty. During that time period, I would assumed that many females as they reach a certain age, their dreams includes marriage. And Kate wasn't too out there. She didn't expect the richest man in town, but a modest living. Her hopes to find a suitable marriage seems to drift further and further away as her employment gets shorter and shorter.  In come Alonzo, a caring father, a considerate employer (sometimes) and a generous man. A bit mysterious, but not bad looking either.  Until he brings her "home" to meet his children, and when she realize his trade. How will this turn out?

A sweet story of looking beyond personal stereotypes and prejudices, and being a person with love and compassion for all.  Back to basics and the assurance of spending time with your children.  The kids are adorable, and the plot runs smooth without much hiccups.  I enjoyed the message, but felt Alonzo's explanation at the end a tad bit rushed. With all said, an easy, enjoyable and quick read.


Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.

For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.


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Kristen Garner McKendry began writing in her teens, and her work has been published in both Canada and the US. She received a Mississauga Arts Council MARTY Award in Established Literary Arts in 2012, and her book Garden Plot was nominated in 2011 for a Whitney Award of excellence in LDS literature.

 Kristen received a bachelor's degree in linguistics from Brigham Young University and has always been a voracious reader. She has a strong interest in urban agriculture and environmental issues. She enjoys playing the bagpipes, learning obscure languages, growing wheat in the backyard, and making cheese. A native of Utah and a mother of three, she now resides with her family in Canada.

CONNECT WITH KRISTEN:  website, blog, goodreads,  facebook


$25 Amazon Gift Card + (1) Copy of The Governess 
courtesy of Covenant Communications, Inc.




                                                                                                                                                                      


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1 comments:

  1. Andrea StephensOctober 12, 2016 at 10:09:00 AM EDT

    Thanks for your honest review Annie! I like when a reviewer tells us readers when there's a rushed ending or other such things.

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