Keturah by Lisa T. Bergren (The Sugar Baron's Daughters, Book 1)

How much do you know about the West Indies during the 1700's when sugar plantations were very profitable? I will admit that I really have no knowledge of how life was during that time of history. Lisa T. Bergren's newest novel, Keturah, is set during this time in history and paints quite a picture of life in the West Indies. This book is the first book of three in her new series, The Sugar Baron's Daughters.

From the Back Cover:
In 1772 England, Lady Keturah Banning Tomlinson and her sisters find themselves the heiresses of their father's estates and know they have one option: Go to the West Indies to save what is left of their heritage.
Although it flies against all the conventions, they're determined to make their own way in the world. But once they arrive in the Caribbean, conventions are the least of their concerns. On the infamous island of Nevis, the sisters discover the legacy of the legendary sugar barons has vastly declined--and that's just the start of what their eyes are opened to in this harsh and unfamiliar world.
Keturah never intends to put herself at the mercy of a man again, but every man on the island seems to be trying to win her hand and, with it, the ownership of her plantation. She could desperately use an ally, but even an unexpected reunion with a childhood friend leaves her questioning his motives.
To keep her family together and save the plantation that is her last chance at providing for them, can Keturah ever surrender her stubbornness and guarded heart to God and find the healing and love awaiting her?

My Thoughts:
The setting for this story is definitely interesting. I learned a lot about the West Indies while reading this story that I did not know. The story line was intriguing too as the three, young women attempt to do the impossible to save their family's inheritance. It's a story that has you routing for the women to succeed, but wondering if they are too far above their heads to make things work. There are some surprises along the way that throw some twists into the plot and keep the story interesting. And there is definitely a good bit of romance woven into the story. There are some elements in this story that can be difficult to read dealing with abuse both for females and African Americans. But the author was staying true to the time of slavery and that women didn't have as much say as the men. Overall, the writing is good.  The story kept me interested and added to my knowledge of history. I do look forward to reading the other 2 books to this series when they come out.

If you are curious what others thought of this book, then click here to read more reviews from the blog tour for Keturah! Also, make sure to enter the 5 book giveaway by clicking here. It ends on March 12!

My Rating: ★★★

***I received this complimentary book from Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.