Every once in a while a story comes along that has the reader cheering for the prospect of redemption and the love that overcomes all. “A Lady in Attendance” by Rachel Fordham is one such book. Five years in the reformatory would be difficult for anyone to overcome, but as a woman in 1898, Hazel found it to be nearly impossible. She changed her name to apply for a job as a dental assistant for Dr. Gilbert Watts, who was intent on keeping everything very professional.

Love has a funny way of disrupting our plans, especially when our plans insist on our being alone. This is a sweet and finely woven tale of love that only Rachel Fordham could have written. I can’t wait to read her next novel.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

Many books have a theme of forgiveness, but Rachel Fordham takes that theme to new levels in A Lady in Attendance. Hazel was framed, convicted, and incarcerated for five years in a women's reformatory. Society and her family turned their backs on her. Once released Hazel's background made finding a job very difficult. Through it all, Hazel not only chose to forgive and let go of all bitterness, but she chose to be grateful for the people around her and for the lessons she learned. She drew closer to God, and looked for the best in others. Her story is engaging, inspiring, and entertaining.

I am grateful to have received a copy of A Lady in Attendance from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed her are my own.

The best historical fiction books are those that combine an interesting historic setting with a wonderful storyline. That describes this book perfectly. Since my modern trips to the dentist always include a hygienist, I had never pondered at what point that become practice. A Lady in Attendance was what the first women dental assistants were called. Gilbert did not realize how much he need Hazel's encouraging presence in his dental practice. I liked how this quiet man treated teeth as an art.
We are introduced to Hazel as she begins her five years of banishment to a women's reformatory. Finding out why does not happen until halfway through the book. But I think if this character could speak, she would definitely say that "you are the friends you keep" or that "bad company corrupts good character." Hers is a story of redemption and humbly asking for forgiveness from those that she wronged.
The love story between Hazel and Gilbert was simply lovely. For those who think that all sorts of descriptions of passionate scenes are necessary for a love story, they should read the book. Even though their affection was limited, I still had all of the feels as I read how they came to be a couple.
This is also a story of friendship and finding those who will support us and believe the best of us. Telling her story took Hazel awhile. But she learned that the truth can set a person free.
I highly recommend this book. I did read a copy through NetGalley as a part of a CelebrateLit tour. All opinions are my own.

Thank you Netgalley and Revell for access to this arc.

This is a slow, mostly gentle story of love, forgiveness, and second chances. The historical details add to but don’t overwhelm things and I learned a lot about early dental assistants, corn shucking, boarding houses, and reformatories. Hazel is not one to refrain from speaking, laughing, or working hard which is what initially gets Gilbert to start opening up. Their budding friendship is charming to watch and it doesn’t take long before they start to cross the “no attachments” line that Gilbert drew in the sand. But it’s done in a 1898 way which is mainly hand holding and light kisses.

I was surprised at how the Big Reveal of Hazel’s past was handled. I’ve read enough romances over the years to expect one thing but here I got another and it was a nice change. Since this is an inspie, my immediate thought was not only what was Gilbert going to think of her past, and I appreciated that it isn’t one that paints Hazel in a good light, but also how was he going to reconcile it with his religious beliefs. He got major points from me for both. And what about how Hazel’s experience had changed her? Booyah for this, too. Even though she was determined to see her name cleared she also took those five years to heart and worked on how she viewed life.

The path that the second half of the story took wasn’t one I saw hinted at in the blurb but nonetheless I liked. There was another conflict that Hazel and Gilbert had to face in a new character who was introduced who also had issues from the past to examine and some self discovery to do. I thought this was handled well as was the investigation that was pivotal to Hazel’s past. Things progressed somewhat easily but as the main emphasis of the story was on personal issues rather than solving a crime, it didn’t bother me. Reconciliations were done and discussions were had which was also needed for Hazel to finally feel free and vindicated. The last chapter or two dragged just a bit but it was nice to read an inspie that I didn’t feel preached at me (or any of the characters) and that showed the power of forgiveness (both of self and to others). Oh, and watching Gilbert come out of his shell was fun, too. B

Thank you to NetGalley for making this complimentary copy available. I loved it from the very first chapter! I think one of the best themes in Christian fiction is forgiveness and redemption, and Rachel Fordham created a masterpiece with this romantic story of a woman who turned her life around after time in a reformatory. While it wasn't easy and she often had doubts as to whether her life could ever be salvaged, she found friends to help her focus and to take the hard steps she needed to take. I would have liked a little more on the ending, as it seemed to drop off immediately into the questions for discussion, but all in all, I liked the pace the author set. I'm looking forward to more!

Oh My Goodness! I have been highly anticipating the release of this book since the announcement that it was coming. I have loved every one of Rachel Fordham's books, and this was no exception! I really enjoyed the uniqueness of the main characters' professions. Gilbert as a dentist and Hazel as a dental assistant, or lady in attendance, as they were called in that day. Hazel finds herself in a world of trouble after having spent the last 5 years in a reformatory for stealing, which she is adamant she is innocent of. In order to make money she lies about her name and doesn't tell Gilbert the truth of where she's been. But as their friendship grows so does Hazel's guilt over lying. So, she decides she's going to be honest about her past and tell Gilbert her entire story.

Gil, as Hazel calls him, is absolutely scrumptious! As he begins to come out of his shell, we see his inner self and it was so genuine. He's quirky and shy and loyal and a wonderful friend! I absolutely fell in love with him! The relationship between these two was absolutely perfect! I loved how they took things slow and Hazel kept having to redraw lines. It's a slow burn type of friendship-to-more that was exceptionally well written. This story will leave you completely satisfied at the end...and leave you wanting more at the same time! I cannot wait to see what Rachel Fordham will deliver to us next!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. all opinions expressed are my own.

This is a Christian Historical book that takes place in the 1890's era. This is the story of Hazel, a young lady that lives in New York and has been in the state reformatory for the past years and wants to start over with a new life and new name. She decides to take on a new job, with her new name and keep a very low profile. Her job is working with Dr. Watt's as a dental assistant, he starts to wonder why she is so mysterious something about her isn't right....... Can Hazel keep her past a secret? Will Dr. Watt's find out the truth? If the truth comes out, what does the future hold?

If you want a good mysterious read that takes you back into time, with a little bit of romance and intriguing ways, read this book. It is a story that pulls at your heart and makes you feel for the characters. While reading this book you can't wonder will Hazel's truth come out and then what will happen? and then you wonder, Will it be that bad if they all find out who she really is? Read this book if you want to know what happens to Hazel and her past.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions 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 Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.

Lady in Attendance by Rachel Fordham

Storyline 4 stars
Depth 4 stars
Faith 2 stars
Love Story 3 stars
Overall 3.5 stars

This is a lighthearted historical fiction story set in 1898 with loveable characters! Hazel has spent five years in a New York state reformatory for a crime she didn't commit. After being released, she is destined to clear her name while trying to move on with her life. She is employed at a dentist's office as a lady in attendance, an assistant to Dr. Gilbert Watts. Soon her shameful past is common knowledge to her new friends, but rather than turn their backs on Hazel, they all work together to uncover the truth of what really happened all those years ago. Gilbert and Hazel have an incredibly sweet story, you cannot help but root for them. We enjoyed the added mystery thrown into the story, but would have liked to see a little more details unfold as the story came to an end. There were themes of forgiveness and redemption, yet they could have been more powerful if faith played a larger part. Overall we enjoyed the story and believe others will as well.

A Lady in Attendance is a lovely read from Rachel Fordham! I was not expecting the mystery and tension laced throughout but it added such depth and kept me reading. I found it interesting to learn about the role of a lady in attendance and the reformatories for women in the late 1800s. The wit and banter between Gilbert and Hazel was endearing, as was their journey of friendship and love. I also enjoyed the bonds that developed between several of the characters. This is a story of true love and forgiveness amongst family, friends, God, and even self. Highly recommend!

Thank you to Revell and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.

If you love a sweet historical that has some romance and some mystery to it then I think will enjoy A Lady In Attendance. This book featured a dentist in 1898 and his new Lady In attending. I guess that was the early name for dental assistants. I love learning things like that from history and fictional stories makes history come alive. The heroine is trying to clear her name from a burglary that she didn't commit, and her handsome employer helps her. I think this book would be appropriate for any age, particularly middle schoolers on up.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion

Such a gently written book, reminiscent of the author Grace Livingston Hill. The characters are well developed with human traits and human emotions. If you don’t fall in love with Gilbert then you don’t know what a real hero is.

The growth in the main characters was enjoyable to see, especially as they worked through forgiving those who wronged them. Hazel is determined and a bit sassy. Gilbert is quiet. Dealing with the pain of false accusations as well as extreme personality differences, they make a great team. I also enjoyed the secondary characters and their development. I’m hoping we see more of them, especially Ina and Duncan.

With mystery and intrigue, sweet romance, and a great plot I highly recommend this Christian historical romance.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

A Lady in Attendance
by Rachel Fordham
Revell
You Like Them
Christian
Pub Date 01 Jun 2021 | Archive Date 10 Jul 2021

Rachel Fordham has done it again! What a great book! I will be recommending this to others that enjoy good Christian Historical Fiction. I also learned something about the title and the career it describes. Thanks to Revell and NetGalley for the ARC.
5 star

Rachel Fordham's "A Lady in Attendance" is a poignant story of steadfast faith, heart to heart forgiveness, and the healing power of love. When Hazel takes a job as Doctor Gilbert Watts's lady in attendance, she finds a trusted friend and confidante in quiet and soft-spoken Gilbert. Maybe she might have a future, after all her tarnished past is set in order. This is a tender tale of a good man and woman, surrounded by friends who stand by them faithfully, as they strive diligently to set Hazel's record straight. I recommend this book to readers who wonder how a once tarnished life can be set straight. It is extremely healing to the soul to remember that all wrongs can be righted in God's own time and way. The waiting is always worth it.

I enjoyed reading A Lady in Attendance! What a novel idea for it's time, to have a lady in attendance at a dental office in 1898. This is the second book by Rachel Fordham for me and she is becoming a favorite author for me. I like her style and this book hooked me from the beginning.

Shy Gilbert had no idea what he was getting into when he engaged Hazel as his Lady in Attendance. Happily, she was much more than he could have dreamed of for efficiency and congenial personality with his patients. Too shy for much of a chairside manner, she made up the difference. Efficiency and quick thinking on her feet made him look forward to each morning when they began their day together.

The dark side of the story was formidable, but wrapped up neatly in the end. A little faith, compassion and love ruled the day and strategic writing made this book one you should add to your reading pile this summer!

A Lady in Attendance was truly a refreshing read! I had not heard of “ladies in attendance” before (at least, not used in medical terminology), so totes learned something new (yay) in addition to enjoying the read. The plot was unique and surprised me at every turn. Plot points I would have expected much later on came near the beginning, leaving the story wide open to go an entirely different direction I hadn’t seen coming. (Sometimes, not reading the full back-cover description first has its perks!) Plus, how can any red-blooded female who grew up in the 80s/90s not love a character named Gilbert?! I ask you. :D

Frankly, I also found it refreshing how the characters held strong convictions–and lived by them. That came at a personal cost several times (and to several characters), and each responded admirably, acknowledging both the challenge and, if I may borrow from Lord of the Rings, that they now had “a chance for Faramir, Captain of Gondor, to show his quality!”

Fordham is a new-to-me author, and I loved discovering both this book and the fact that she lives in Washington state. Looking forward to reading more of her books and following her journey.

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

A sweetly inspiring story from Rachel Fordham! A Lady in Attendance gives readers a unique historical story with wonderful characters and valuable lessons that will stay with them even after the final page.

I’ve never read about, or really thought of, dentists in a historical setting. It was really interesting to learn about that line of work, plus I absolutely loved Gilbert’s character. Although I wish some of the characters’ issues hadn’t been resolved so easily, I love Fordham’s writing and her portrayal of the many paths of forgiveness. I also would have appreciated an epilogue, but only because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to the characters. I hope we see more of some of the people introduced here in future books!

A Lady in Attendance will inspire and captivate readers. This is the second book of Fordham’s I have read, and I can’t wait to go back and read the others. The sneak peek of her upcoming novel (included at the end of A Lady in Attendance) is also very exciting. Don’t miss this unique story! 4/5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I've only read one other book by Fordham and wasn't a huge fan, so this book left me pleasantly surprised. Hazel is a lady attending a dentist. Super interesting to me as I have family who has passed that were in this field years ago. I thought I was going to read this and stop one night, but I couldn't put it down. Hazel's backstory, having been wrongly accused of a crime, and spent the last five years in reformatory had some Jean Valjean ties that made me keep reading. I felt everything she was feeling and also enjoyed the simplicity of the every day life things happening in Buffalo. It doesn't get more simpler than corn huskings, but it also grows exciting when opium smuggling is mentioned. Hazel's character growth is real and beautiful to read and Gilbert, well how can you not like a man named Gilbert if you like Anne of Green Gables? Reading about men like him makes me hope there are ones out there that exist still and maybe I'll find one?

I think it has such a pretty cover so kudos to the art department! As it's historical Christian fiction, I think it appeals to a very niche market - off the top of my head I can think of particular people in my circle of acquaintance who I'll recommend this title to because I know they'll enjoy it for being wholesome and inspiring. It isn't heavy on the "preachy" bits, so I don't think it would be off-putting to non-religious readers looking for a feel-good historical read without the lewd bits. However, it does approach things from a faith-based perspective. I grew up with books of a similar genre from authors such as Lori Wick, Janette Oke, Tracie Peterson and the like and found this had a "familiar" feel to it. It isn't very fast-paced and I have enjoyed the gentle romance. Watching the relationship develop made me smile on occasion because it just felt good! The drama at the end is what I was waiting for - a little bit of excitement and danger to shake things up - but that's more just a personal preference. It's a gentle read that I simply enjoyed for what it is - it felt a little slow at times, it could have skipped some of the internalization and dialogues in my opinion - but overall, it was at heart a winsome historical read - I think those who enjoy Christian historical fiction will absolutely love it and as I mentioned, I know a few who I'll be recommending it to who will appreciate the simple beauty of the book. For myself, personally, it's a 3.5* read - I liked it, but it didn't stand out.

My thanks to Revell Books for the complimentary ARC. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

This is one of the most interesting books I've read in a while. Rachel Fordham is fast becoming one of my favorite authors, whose books I will always choose to review when they come up in my feed. I was not disappointed in choosing this book.

Hazel has spent five years in a reformatory for a crime she didn't commit but was convicted. Now she is out looking for a job and trying to make her way after her family has asked her not to come back home. They do not want her name to taint the opportunities for her sisters. She moves to a town not far away from where she grew up and finds work as A Lady in Attendance for a dentist. In today's vernacular, she would be classified as a dental assistant. She wants to be able to go back home and see her family, but she would have to clear her name first. As Hazel and Gilbert, her boss, become more acquainted, he becomes more intrigued by Hazel's secrets that she truly doesn't want to reveal but eventually she has to show her hand. Gilbert wants to help and enlists the aid of his friend, Duncan, who is also an attorney. His older brother shows up to throw a spanner in the works, but eventually ends up being very helpful.

Rachel has included intrigue, murder, and general mayhem in this book, along with two sweet love stories that have happily ever afters for the ladies as well as the men involved. The settings in this book are easily imaginable and the characters are believable and likable. The plot keeps the reader's attention with its pace and its subject.

This is a five star book with two thumbs up and a family reunited.

Revell Publishing and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

I was looking forward to reading this since the book blurb sounded so good and I’m happy to say it was an even better than I expected!

Hazel has been released from a reformatory, where she spent time for a wrongful theft conviction. She starts working for dentist Gilbert Watts under an alias to try to make a fresh start. As their friendship starts to grow into a romance, what happens when Hazel’s past comes to light?

This was a lovely story of redemption, forgiveness, and finding a purpose in life. Hazel and Gilbert had a lovely relationship and I was rooting for them to get their happy ending. There’s also a lovely secondary cast of characters who supported Hazel on her journey. Add in a bit of a mystery, and this was a satisfying read.