The Bargain: An American Historical Romance Novel by Irene Bennett Brown is a wonderful example of what this author does best: writing historical western novels. The story begins in New Hampshire, 1885.
Clare Hobb’s powerful family runs a successful lumber, flour and cloth mill. Unfortunately, her father suffered a brain injury when a horse kicked him in the head. Since then, his brothers have treated him with ridicule, belittling him when he performs at a slower pace, or becomes confused, torment that actually makes his condition worse. When an accident happens that kills one of the brothers, Clare’s father is blamed.
Clare is in love with Larken, a neighboring farmer, whom her uncles and their wives disdain, claiming he is “beneath” them. Seeking a better life, Larken leaves with his mother and younger brother to start a new life in Kansas, hoping that Clare’s family will follow. Unfortunately, she never receives his letters, and she has no way to reach him. The situation with Clare’s father worsens and her family has to flee New Hampshire. In the meantime, Clare finally receives the “lost” letters and now they, too, are bound for Kansas, leaving behind the family business, determined to start anew. Clare wonders if their fresh start will include Larken.
The Bargain reminds me how tough life was in that time period, not only in attitudes about class and “stations in life,” but also the difficulty in eking out a living with scarce resources. It took determination, sacrifice, frugality and the willingness to help one another to scratch out a living. Irene Bennett Brown is a master in bringing to life attitudes and living conditions of the time. The Bargain is a good, wholesome read, full of character and customs of the period.
Ohhh, this sounds like a wonderful story with very determined characters! I’ll have to check this one out!
It’s a good book, Alice, one that I’m sure you’ll enjoy. Thanks for the comment.
Thank so much for this review, Mary. You’ve done a perfect, beautiful job about my book.
You’re welcome, Irene. It was my pleasure.