Beyond the Silence - A Review

Published - January 2016, Bethany House Publishers
Authors - Tracie Peterson & Kimberley Woodhouse
Title - Beyond the Silence
Format - ebook, paper, audio
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Lillian Porter longs to fulfill her mother's dream of going west. When she learns of a nanny position in Angels Camp, California, she jumps at the chance to go. Yet upon her arrival, Lillian learns that there are rumors flying around town about her employer, Woodward Colton, a local olive farmer. According to the gossip, he murdered his wife. Lillian tries not to listen to the rumors, especially after meeting Woody's son, her new charge. Jimmy hasn't spoken since the day he witnessed his mother's murder. As Lillian becomes a part of this family, she sees how much both father and son are hurting. Can she help draw them both out? And when it becomes clear that danger is still threatening the Colton family, will Woody be able to keep Lillian safe like he couldn't with his wife?

This book started off a little slow for me. But as the story unraveled, I was captivated. I've read a lot of Tracie Peterson's books in the past, but I think that this was my first Kimberley Woodhouse book.

The characters were complex. Way more than I expected. Woody's a troubled man who knows he is innocent but is seen as guilty in the eyes of the town. Jimmy stole my heart. The child who hasn't spoken since his mother's death has a lot to say. I loved how Lillian worked with him and figured out a way to get him to respond. Then there's Harry. The simple-minded gentle giant who has a heart of gold.

I've got to admit, that I learned a lot about olive growing in this book. And that some olives are better for olive oil and others for the table. I never imagined the process that it takes to grow & process olives.

I received this book for free from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Tracie Peterson, Jody Hedlund, Mary Connealy

Rating - 4 stars