Spirit of the Valley

Shoup once more proves adept at taking on serious themes, this time in the second Green Valley romance (after Down in the Valley), which addresses domestic violence with care and sensitivity. In 1882, Pauline Ray finally leaves her abusive husband, Ethan. She takes the children and the little cash she’s secretly squirreled away and boards a train, going as far as the money will take her. She arrives in Green Valley, Va., a mining town, and there she is immediately embraced by two wise, loving, and quirky sisters, April May and Cessie Blue. They convince Pauline to reinvent herself as Lizzie Carter, to protect herself and the children from Ethan’s pursuit. Lizzie falls in love with lonely Jeremy Sheffield, who also has secrets, and together they begin to make a life. A horrific mining accident and a violent confrontation with Ethan add drama; however, the story’s real draw is timid Pauline’s complete metamorphosis into Lizzie, who is strong, courageous, and in love for the first time. Agent: Kimberly Cameron, Kimberly Cameron and Associates. (Nov.)