The Pursuit of Elena Bradford

By Ann H. Gabhart

Book Overview

Nothing would please her family more than her securing an admirable match, but true love and loyalty are harder to come by than she imagined.

At twenty-two, Elena Bradford has never met a man who made her consider marriage. But when her father dies and leaves the family deeply in debt, Elena becomes their only hope. Her mother uses their last funds to take Elena and her younger sister to Graham Springs, Kentucky, where people find healing by drinking the mineral spring water and healthy recreation through the many daily activities--including dances almost every evening.

As her mother schemes to find Elena a wealthy husband, Elena finds herself drawn to two men her mother would never consider. Charming artist Kirby Frazier spends his days drawing and painting the guests, but his real mission is to find a wealthy bride to finance his dream to go west. Melancholy Andrew Harper has come to Graham Springs in need of healing after a broken heart.

When a beautiful young lady shows up at the Springs with no chaperone and a story that seems suspicious, nearly everyone is charmed and intrigued. But when an unexpected tragedy occurs, Elena, Kirby, and Andrew will all be faced with decisions of life, love, and loyalty.

With a Southern flair and a spark of intrigue, this stand-alone clean historical romance will charm readers with masterful artists, colorful dances, a love triangle, and endearing family relationships.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0800746260
• ISBN13: 9780800746261
• Release Date: May 2025
• Publisher: Fleming H. Revell Company
• Length: 352 Pages
• Weight: 0.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 5.4" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

I did enjoy this but it was confusing.

This story was a 3 star read for me. I enjoyed the characters, two men, Andrew Harper, a wealthy gentleman who was spurned at the altar a year prior betrayed by his best friend, and an artist, Kirby Frazier in need of a rich wife, both who converge at Graham's Healing Springs, a place where the sick in mind, body and soul was sure to find a cure.  The main character was Miss Elena Bradford, whose father was once wealthy, but squandered away his money, which left Elena and her mother, sister Ivy, and twin brothers in a financial crisis at his death. The sons were away at school, so Elena's mother decides that Elena must find a wealthy husband to save their family, and what better place to find a rich husband than at Graham Springs.  They take a coach there, and that is where they meet the two men Andrew Harper and Kirby Frazier, all traveling to Graham Springs hoping for a cure for what ails them all, but it isn't just health issues, but life issues too!  Elena thinks she is destined for spinsterhood, Andrew thinks his broken heart is unable to be healed, and Kirby hopes he will be hired on as a portrait artist and maybe find a rich wife to boot!  Andrew and Kirby end up being rivals, and Elena finds way more than she bargained for, and all three end up tangled in a mystery! I liked this story, but without giving spoilers, I only rate it 3 stars because the story flowed well until the mystery part for me, and it didn't make much sense after that. The mystery part seemed to be added in to try to make the story exciting but in my opinion, it made it confusing. I did like the outcome of the story, but it just didn't flow well for me!  But I would recommend it, but only give it 3 stars out of 5.

Impeccable Storytelling

As always this author does an impeccable job of drawing you into the story and making you feel like you are a part of the journey. From the beautiful cover that captures your attention to the last page I was totally engrossed. I love how the history of Graham Springs is brought to life and the healing waters of the springs as I had never heard of this one located in Kentucky. We find ourselves on a harrowing stagecoach ride where we meet several important characters that shape the story from the secrets being kept to the pretense it will grab your attention. It is nice to watch the characters grow and develop as you turn the pages to unlock the secrets and sometimes hidden desires of their hearts. I loved the wisdom of General Dawson and his matchmaking qualities. He was a character I wanted to know more. From the ballroom dances to strolling the grounds you will feel like you have taken a step back in time. I especially enjoyed the mystery that is included that added an interesting facet to the story. This story is a winner in my opinion of how faith, family, truth, and love are the ingredients for success. As the old saying goes, this story is the whole ball of wax. Make sure you read the author’s notes at the end as it contains information you don’t want to miss. I highly recommend putting this on the top of your next read pile. I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.