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Legacy of Mercy by Lynn Austin is the second novel in Waves of Mercy series. Anna Nicholson has returned home to Chicago after spending time with her newly discovered grandmother, Geesjede Jonge in Holland, Michigan. Her mother wishes Anna to focus on her upcoming wedding to William Wilkinson, but Anna wants to know more about her birth parents. Her father hires Pinkerton detectives and Anna soon finds herself meeting people who once knew her mother. The more Anna learns, though, the more she understands why her adopted mother wished her to leave the past buried. Unfortunately, secrets have a way of coming out especially when there is a vengeful society lady involved. Anna wants to share her faith with others, but her society acquaintances are not receptive. Anna wants to make a difference and is curious what God’s purpose is for her life. Anna seeks counsel from her Oma, Geesjede in Holland and she also gets to spend time with Derk Vander Veen. Geesjede has the troubled Cornelia Den Herder staying with her. Cornelia and her grandfather, Marinus are new to America. Geesjede hopes in time that Cornelia will open up to her and she can help the unsettled young woman. She also hopes her insight will guide Anna to make the right choices. Where will Anna’s search lead her? Will she follow her heart, or will Anna do what is expected of her?

Legacy of Mercy is a multifaceted story with developed characters. I thought Legacy of Mercy was well-written with a gentle pace which suits the story. The author’s writing drew me into the book and it held my attention. Anna Nicholson is a thoughtful, Christian woman who has recently discovered her maternal grandmother. Despite negativity from her adopted mother, Anna is determined to learn about her birth parents. The information she learns, though, could jeopardize her standing within society. I liked that Anna wanted to share her Christian values with her circle of friends and her family. Anna needs to decide if she will marry William as expected or follow her heart. While the focus of Legacy of Mercy is Anna, we also spend time in Holland, Michigan with Geesjede. Geesjede is forced to share her cottage with newcomer, Cornelia. She soon learns that God put Cornelia with her for a reason. While Legacy of Mercy can be read on its own, I recommend starting with Waves of Mercy first. Lynn Austin captured the era with the clothing, buildings, furniture, conveyances, books, expectations for women, and the historical characters referenced (Jane Addams and Ellen Gates Starr for instance). I appreciated that Anna went to visit Hull House and the author talked about the conditions that exist for the poor in Chicago in 1897. The Christian element is integrated nicely into the book. Anna is trying to live a Godly life, but it is difficult as a society woman. We see the struggles Anna faces. There is a lot going on in Legacy of Mercy, but it is enjoyable to read. Personally, I could have done without the secondary storyline involving Cornelia and her grandfather (it did not tie in with Anna’s story). I did feel that Cornelia’s story was incomplete (I wanted a better ending for her). I am giving Legacy of Mercy 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). Legacy of Mercy has a heartwarming ending that will please readers. ( )

In the sequel to Waves of Mercy, readers get the rest to spend some more time with Anna Nicholson. As Anna (also called Anneke by her biological grandmother Geesje) goes in search of answers to her parentage, her discoveries alternately bring sadness and delight. But the entire journey is worth it. At the same time, Anna must navigate an indifferent fiancé and a society that thrives on gossiping about each other—both of which concern Anna.

Geesje (if you’re wondering, the audiobook narrator pronounced the name Hay-sha) has her own challenges to contend with as she takes in Cornelia, a young woman whose life is immersed in grief and pain. A young lady who Geesje is determined to love through her pain and sadness.

Cornelia’s story is heartbreaking, and I couldn’t help but pray for healing from the hurt and depression in her life. Anna’s story is different but no less moving with the anticipation of discovering whether her lineage will bring her and her parents shame or joy.

There’s a lot happening throughout Legacy of Mercy that the reader barely catches their breath before more questions are brought forth. Austin expertly weaves each characters’ story together to create a memorable and satisfying read.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. ( )

I requested to read and review this book through Netgalley. The review is my own and freely given.

I have never been disappointed with a Jane Austin novel, and the record holds. Even though this is the second book in the series, it is good as a stand-alone book also.

The characters are very well developed and the story flows very well. The book is written in sections of each character telling their part of the story. It makes the story flow well.

I read an advanced reader copy but even though it wasn't final edition, the editing and grammar were excellent. A poorly edited book can ruin a great story. This is great as both a story and editing. You will not be disappointed.

If you like non-preachy, Christian stories set back in time, you will truly enjoy this book. I give it 5 stars out of 5. ( )

Legacy of Mercy by Lynn Austin is the second book in her Waves of Mercy series. Wow, I don’t even know where to start. This book was awesome! I usually don’t care for books written in the first person but I decided to give this one a chance. I’m really glad I did, it was amazing. Anna Nicholson returns to Chicago from Michigan. She is engaged to be married to a very wealthy young man. But she can’t seem to get excited about her socialite lifestyle. Anna hires the Pinkerton’s to try to find her birth father. What she learns may be the thing that brings about ruin for those she loves. The messages through-out the story are so powerful. Forgiveness, loving your enemies, helping those less fortunate, sharing your faith, all this is woven together so well with a sweet love story. Reading about Anna and her courage to share her faith with the society crowd was a very powerful check to me. I started examining my life. Do I have that kind of courage? Would I be able to stand up for My Lord in the face of ridicule and the possibility of losing friends? A great story without being “preachy”. I would highly recommend it!

I received this e-book from the author in exchange for my honest review. ( )