Family First

The Best Of Intentions by Susan Anne Mason is a perfectly charming historical novel and the first book in the Canadian Crossings series.

The setting is 1919 as the world recovers from World War I and the Spanish flu epidemic which followed. So many families suffered losses.

The novel is about fulfilling a sister’s wishes and caring for her baby son. Babies have the capacity to soften hearts and help to heal losses.

There are the themes of guilt and earning love from a parent. One young man has been forever in his brother’s shadow, trying to earn the affections of his father. Now he feels guilty because he is the one left living when he knows he is his father’s second choice. The reader is reminded that God loves us all equally. There are no favourites in God’s Kingdom, neither do we need to earn His love. God loves each and every one of us unconditionally.

1919 saw a new world emerging but some still cling to the old order of things – marriages were alliances of wealth and status rather than for love. It takes courage to break away from this.

The characters are delightful. They are warm and welcoming, their interactions are charming. There are friendships that cross class divides as hearts are drawn to another.

I really loved The Best Of Intentions. I could not put it down and devoured it in just two sittings – only pausing to sleep! I am looking forward to the subsequent books.

I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

JULIA WILSON