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Band of Sisters
Maureen O’Reilly and her younger sister flee Ireland in hope of claiming the life promised to their father over twenty years before. After surviving the rigors of Ellis Island, Maureen learns that their benefactor, Colonel Wakefield, has died. His family, refusing to own his Civil War debt, casts her out. Alone, impoverished, and in danger of deportation, Maureen connives to obtain employment in a prominent department store. But she soon discovers that the elegant facade hides a secret that threatens every vulnerable woman in the city.Despite her family’s disapproval, Olivia Wakefield determines to honor her father’s debt but can’t find Maureen. Unexpected help comes from a local businessman, whom Olivia begins to see as more than an ally, even as she fears the secrets he’s hiding. As women begin disappearing from the store, Olivia rallies influential ladies in her circle to help Maureen take a stand against injustice and fight for the lives of their growing band of sisters. But can either woman open her heart to divine leading or the love it might bring?
507 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2012
441 people are currently reading
2137 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Gohlke
16 books1,327 followersBestselling, Christy Hall of Fame, and Carol and INSPY Award-winning author, Cathy Gohlke writes novels steeped with inspirational lessons, speaking of world and life events through the lens of history. She champions the battle against oppression, celebrating the freedom found only in Christ. Her critically acclaimed novels include This Promised Land, Ladies of the Lake, A Hundred Crickets Singing, Night Bird Calling, The Medallion (Christy Award), Until We Find Home, Secrets She Kept (Christy Award; Carol Award; INSPY Award); Saving Amelie (INSPY AWARD); Band of Sisters; Promise Me This (listed by Library Journal as one of the Best Books of 2012); I Have Seen Him in the Watchfires (Christy Award, American Christian Fiction Writers Award and listed by Library Journal as one of the Best Books of 2008) and William Henry Is a Fine Name (Christy Award).
Cathy has worked as a school librarian, drama director, and director of children's and education ministries. When not traveling to historic sites for research, she and her husband, Dan, divide their time between Northern Virginia and the Jersey Shore, enjoying time with their children and grandchildren. Visit her website at www.cathygohlke.com and find her on Facebook at CathyGohlkeBooks. Follow her on BookBub.
Cathy has worked as a school librarian, drama director, and director of children's and education ministries. When not traveling to historic sites for research, she and her husband, Dan, divide their time between Northern Virginia and the Jersey Shore, enjoying time with their children and grandchildren. Visit her website at www.cathygohlke.com and find her on Facebook at CathyGohlkeBooks. Follow her on BookBub.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 242 reviews
September 12, 2012
1910 Ireland. As Maureen and Katie Rose O'Reilley climb the muddy path up the hillside to cemetery where her mother is to buried the women attending the burial shun Maureen. Even though Maureen had been raped and brutally used by her landlord Lord Orthbridge the women still treated her like a harlot. With her mother's passing she did not know how she was to protect her young sister from her landlord's desires and abuse. She heard rumored that his young son is already after Katie Rose's skirt tales.
After the funeral Maureen's Aunt Verna unfurls a plan to get Maureen and Katie Rose out of Ireland, but they must move quickly with the plan. Her aunt tells of a close friend of Maureen's long deceased father that had sent money to have her father and his family to come to America and become his business partner. Colonel Wakefield saw O'Reilly as a brother and his children as his own. Maureen's aunt still has the money . She gives the money along with a letter from Wakefield to Maureen for the girls to make the trip to America so they will be safe with Colonel Wakefield.
Joshua Keeton, a young man in her village, is about Maureen's age and has already made plans to go to America. Her aunt has arranged for the girls to travel to America with him. As soon as they get to the shipyard Maureen refuses any more of his assistance and takes her sister in hand to travel the voyage to America alone. She trusts no one! Especially men!
Katie Rose ends up catching Chicken Pox is held at the infirmary at Ellis Island until to gets well and Maureen must find residents and employment before they will approve her release. She fears they will be returned to Ireland.
She lucks out and has been given some assistance by a lady of the Missionary Aid Society to get her the proper clothes and make sure she has a place to stay and employment.
When she arrives at Colonel Wakefield's she is rudely treated by a man that claims the Colonel is deceased and that she has no claim to the family and he burns her letter in the fireplace and boots the screaming Maureen out the door like a piece of trash.
But as this was happening Olivia daughter of Colonel Wakefield was disgusted by the way her brother-in-law Drake had treated the young women in Olivia's home. He had no right no right at all. She must find this woman so she can find out what kind of connection she has with her father. She will not stop until she finds the poor women. Her guest, Curtis Morrow witnessed this event and promised to do what he could to help find the O'Reilley woman.
It just keeps getting worse for Maureen. Will she be able to find employment? Will poor Katie Rose be sent back to Ireland?
The author wrote a wonderful story of the plight of immigrant women in New York that are just arriving at Ellis Island. Any lone woman was at the mercy of evil men as soon as they stepped foot on American soil. Tricking the women into thinking they could be trusted to help them find employment and a place to stay. There were women being accosted for white slavery and forced to work in brothels and on the streets.
The chances of getting a decent job was minimal. If money was sparse then so was food and shelter. The character of Olivia Wakefield was a woman that was determined to fight for the protection and the rights of these women and against white slavery.
I knew things back then were difficult for women but I really had no idea it was that bad. I want to thank the author for opening my eyes. It has given me so much love and respect for the women that fought the long hard battle for women's rights and eventually won.
I devoured the information she provided in the question and answers she so graciously shared with us. I am eager to do more research on this subject. I am of Irish decent and know my ancestors went through Ellis Island. I have taken this story very personally. I thank Cathy for bringing to to my attention.
I highly recommend this book!
I rated this book 5 out of 5.
Disclosure
I received a free copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my own opinion.
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June 16, 2021
Let me begin by saying that if I had known what this book was about, I wouldn't have gotten it. It's probably not the best thing for a teenager to be reading about (I for sure wouldn't recommend it to teens). This book somehow tore at all the heartstrings.
Maureen is such a strong character. If I could have half of the strength she had... She put her family first in everything, regardless of what it meant that she had to go through. Though she thought she had it all figured and everything together in her life, she was really lacking something very important.
Joshua is probably my favourite. He is honest, compassionate, and Godly. I just loved him. He was everything that she needed.
The romance was almost not existent, which I loved! It was the perfect amount needed in this book.
There really was a lot of suspense, specifically toward the end, which really got me on the edge of my seat.
The spiritual aspect of this book was what really got me emotional. Maureen really struggled with self-worth. She also wasn't saved. It was amazing to see her journey in her spiritual life.
While this book goes through some rough topics, I ultimately ended it with a realization of what so many women and girls go through. It was an extremely sad book and difficult to read. This is one I will never forget, and not just because of the themes it deals with, but of the message of hope that can be found in Christ. Somehow, it is a favourite and a least-favourite at the same time. :)
*I recommend to those 18+ because of the main theme of men using women.
Maureen is such a strong character. If I could have half of the strength she had... She put her family first in everything, regardless of what it meant that she had to go through. Though she thought she had it all figured and everything together in her life, she was really lacking something very important.
Joshua is probably my favourite. He is honest, compassionate, and Godly. I just loved him. He was everything that she needed.
The romance was almost not existent, which I loved! It was the perfect amount needed in this book.
There really was a lot of suspense, specifically toward the end, which really got me on the edge of my seat.
The spiritual aspect of this book was what really got me emotional. Maureen really struggled with self-worth. She also wasn't saved. It was amazing to see her journey in her spiritual life.
While this book goes through some rough topics, I ultimately ended it with a realization of what so many women and girls go through. It was an extremely sad book and difficult to read. This is one I will never forget, and not just because of the themes it deals with, but of the message of hope that can be found in Christ. Somehow, it is a favourite and a least-favourite at the same time. :)
*I recommend to those 18+ because of the main theme of men using women.
August 6, 2012
This is a wonderful historical novel set in 1910 that takes you from Ireland to NYC with two sisters who need to start a new life. There is suspense and romance and a powerful message. The writing is beautiful and the story totally captured my heart. I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars.
July 17, 2018
Band of Sisters by Cathy Gohlke
Genre: Historic Fiction, Christian Fiction
Format: Kindle
Timeframe: 1910
Location: Ireland then NYC
Main Characters:
Maureen O’Reilly: Escaping Ireland for a new life in America
Katie Rose O’Reilly: Maureen’s 14 year old sister
Olivia Wakefield: Wealthy daughter of Colonel Wakefield
Dorothy Meitland: Olivia’s sister
Drake Meitland: Dorothy’s wicked husband
Curtis Morrow: Drake’s business partner, Christian
Joshua Keeton: Irish man also seeking new life in America
1910 Ireland.
Minor synopsis, in no way the full extent of this in-depth book!....
The symbolism in this book was lovely. Lost in our sin, we don’t always trust when freedom is offered. Seeds of truth and trust are ignored. There was an incident in the book where Maureen offers freedom to about 50 encaged women. She sees in them what she had experienced. To them that freedom seemed a ruse and they stayed in their confinement, fearful of trusting that liberty was actually on the other side.
Another symbolic storyline was when Colonel Wakefield’s journals were being read by his daughter Olivia. In them she saw his story and what his desires were, and her need to obey her father’s wishes. Until that time she had no clue what truths lay inside and what she needed to do. The Word of God is our journal, so to speak. Until we delve into it we don’t know Him nor His desires nearly so well. A light goes on with the Word of God and suddenly the path is lit for us to follow.
This was one of the most difficult books I’ve ever read. This is not to say it was bad. It certainly was not. Just painful. The hardships of the immigrant life and the sex slave issue did not make for light reading. Disturbing but important. Well written. I can recommend this with reservation. Rape and adult language might limit this to adult reading. Not suggested before bed or as a light beach-read.
Genre: Historic Fiction, Christian Fiction
Format: Kindle
Timeframe: 1910
Location: Ireland then NYC
Main Characters:
Maureen O’Reilly: Escaping Ireland for a new life in America
Katie Rose O’Reilly: Maureen’s 14 year old sister
Olivia Wakefield: Wealthy daughter of Colonel Wakefield
Dorothy Meitland: Olivia’s sister
Drake Meitland: Dorothy’s wicked husband
Curtis Morrow: Drake’s business partner, Christian
Joshua Keeton: Irish man also seeking new life in America
1910 Ireland.
Minor synopsis, in no way the full extent of this in-depth book!....
The symbolism in this book was lovely. Lost in our sin, we don’t always trust when freedom is offered. Seeds of truth and trust are ignored. There was an incident in the book where Maureen offers freedom to about 50 encaged women. She sees in them what she had experienced. To them that freedom seemed a ruse and they stayed in their confinement, fearful of trusting that liberty was actually on the other side.
Another symbolic storyline was when Colonel Wakefield’s journals were being read by his daughter Olivia. In them she saw his story and what his desires were, and her need to obey her father’s wishes. Until that time she had no clue what truths lay inside and what she needed to do. The Word of God is our journal, so to speak. Until we delve into it we don’t know Him nor His desires nearly so well. A light goes on with the Word of God and suddenly the path is lit for us to follow.
This was one of the most difficult books I’ve ever read. This is not to say it was bad. It certainly was not. Just painful. The hardships of the immigrant life and the sex slave issue did not make for light reading. Disturbing but important. Well written. I can recommend this with reservation. Rape and adult language might limit this to adult reading. Not suggested before bed or as a light beach-read.
September 14, 2012
When I began this book, I honestly had no idea how prevalent the human sex trafficking business was and how long it had been going on. I was horrified to realize that such a thing as the white slavery trade was going on in this country in the late 1800's. I am still reeling from the shock of it all.
The Christian message of this book was fantastically woven into the fabric of the story in a remarkable way. I so appreciate the way that Cathy Gohlke made God and Christianity a real thing rather than just something nice on the side. The characters who were truly committed to the Lord, lived it!
The characters were so well-developed, and I connected with them on a real way. I always find it kind of funny when I actually feel like praying for the characters to make it through this situation or that situation when they are not real. But the author made the characters so alive to me that I wanted to do just that.
I appreciate the way the author wrote fairly realistic fiction. Usually, Christian books avoid great tragedies and even mention the dreaded word "sex" or "prostitution." This book handled the issue in a real way, and it made the story all that more real to me.
I was surprised to see the inclusion of the book "In His Steps." It had been a while since I had read that book, but it certainly made for an interesting turn of events. To see the characters living the philosophy "What Would Jesus Do" really did make me stop and think about the cost of following Christ--especially for those in society. This is a book I can recommend to anyone who wants to learn about a portion of history that is not normally discussed in this country.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are 100 percent mine, and I was not financially compensated.
The Christian message of this book was fantastically woven into the fabric of the story in a remarkable way. I so appreciate the way that Cathy Gohlke made God and Christianity a real thing rather than just something nice on the side. The characters who were truly committed to the Lord, lived it!
The characters were so well-developed, and I connected with them on a real way. I always find it kind of funny when I actually feel like praying for the characters to make it through this situation or that situation when they are not real. But the author made the characters so alive to me that I wanted to do just that.
I appreciate the way the author wrote fairly realistic fiction. Usually, Christian books avoid great tragedies and even mention the dreaded word "sex" or "prostitution." This book handled the issue in a real way, and it made the story all that more real to me.
I was surprised to see the inclusion of the book "In His Steps." It had been a while since I had read that book, but it certainly made for an interesting turn of events. To see the characters living the philosophy "What Would Jesus Do" really did make me stop and think about the cost of following Christ--especially for those in society. This is a book I can recommend to anyone who wants to learn about a portion of history that is not normally discussed in this country.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are 100 percent mine, and I was not financially compensated.
October 16, 2012
Way too preachy - could have been a great story.
September 14, 2012
I loved this story, and the pages almost turned themselves. We begin in County Meath Ireland, not far from Dublin where the O'Reilly sister's [Maureen and Katie Rose] have just buried their Mother.
Their Dear Aunt, their Mother's sister, loves them and helps them with some money to leave Ireland and come to the US.
Their adventure has begun!! Along with them immigrating is a young fellow they know named Joshua Keenan, who Maureen does not trust. She actually doesn't trust anyone, and is trying to take care of her thirteen
year old sister. What the sister's do have is a letter from Colonel Wakefield, stating he wants to set her Dad's son in business. He is indebted to him for saving his life! When Maureen goes to his home she finds that he has died and is crulely turned away by Drake Meitland, who burns her letter.
Now Maureen's is penniless and without home or job. She does have a friend in Mrs Melkford, from the Missionary Aid Society, she is Heaven sent.
Maureen also met a shady character, she could tell by his smile, Jamie Flynn, who thrust $30 at her and tells her where she can obtain a job. After what has happened she goes and gets a clerking job at Darcy's Department Store. When things start to not add up and some of her friends begin to go missing, she doesn't know what to do.
Olivia Wakefield and her Sister Dorothy belong to a Church Group to help people. They decide to read In His Step's by Charles Sheldon, "What Would Jesus Do". Olivia also attempts to find anything she can in her Dad's paper's about the O'Reilly's. In the end she tries to find Maureen and Katie Rose.
I found Katie Rose to not be very endearing...like a spoiled brat, but considering the poverty they came from in Ireland, and what they are now experiencing in the US, I kind of understand.
We are about to journey to the dark underground of life in the US...White Slavery. Cathy Gohlke has worked this subject into this story in such a way that it touches today's current problems.
While I could not put this book down until the end, some of the injustice is still happening. I would love to able to sit down and be with these strong woman, and find out what happens in later life.
I received this book from Tyndale House Publishers, and was not required to give a positive review.
Their Dear Aunt, their Mother's sister, loves them and helps them with some money to leave Ireland and come to the US.
Their adventure has begun!! Along with them immigrating is a young fellow they know named Joshua Keenan, who Maureen does not trust. She actually doesn't trust anyone, and is trying to take care of her thirteen
year old sister. What the sister's do have is a letter from Colonel Wakefield, stating he wants to set her Dad's son in business. He is indebted to him for saving his life! When Maureen goes to his home she finds that he has died and is crulely turned away by Drake Meitland, who burns her letter.
Now Maureen's is penniless and without home or job. She does have a friend in Mrs Melkford, from the Missionary Aid Society, she is Heaven sent.
Maureen also met a shady character, she could tell by his smile, Jamie Flynn, who thrust $30 at her and tells her where she can obtain a job. After what has happened she goes and gets a clerking job at Darcy's Department Store. When things start to not add up and some of her friends begin to go missing, she doesn't know what to do.
Olivia Wakefield and her Sister Dorothy belong to a Church Group to help people. They decide to read In His Step's by Charles Sheldon, "What Would Jesus Do". Olivia also attempts to find anything she can in her Dad's paper's about the O'Reilly's. In the end she tries to find Maureen and Katie Rose.
I found Katie Rose to not be very endearing...like a spoiled brat, but considering the poverty they came from in Ireland, and what they are now experiencing in the US, I kind of understand.
We are about to journey to the dark underground of life in the US...White Slavery. Cathy Gohlke has worked this subject into this story in such a way that it touches today's current problems.
While I could not put this book down until the end, some of the injustice is still happening. I would love to able to sit down and be with these strong woman, and find out what happens in later life.
I received this book from Tyndale House Publishers, and was not required to give a positive review.
June 10, 2013
Fans of Cathy Gohlke's Promise Me This will find they will love this book just as much even though its very different. It still has Cathy's excellent story telling, historical accuracy and a page turning book you can't put down. What is doesn't have is the romance story but it has a powerful story that will stay with long after you turn the last page.
I loved Olivia's character and her determination to do good and on honor her father's promise. She is a person that many of can learn from. Of course, I also loved Maureen's character but her story was more heart breaking at times. She was frustrating at times with her stubbornness, which made sense at times but not always.
This is a great book for anyone who likes a good historical story. Though I will say it is not a light beach read by any means, but I think that is why the book is so great and powerful!
* I received this book from Tyndale through Radiant Lit. Thank you!
February 11, 2017
The book started great by introducing us to two sisters Maureen and Katie Rose from Ireland. They come to America to Ellis Island to start a new beginning. It shows us their and other immigrants struggle in a new land, their fear of deportation, poverty and slavery, and shows us how some of the wealthy women from the New York society form a unity to help helpless girls who come to New York seeking new life.
But the second part was rushed, written to fill pages.
But the second part was rushed, written to fill pages.
February 21, 2020
So I get it that the author wanted to write a meaningful story with a modern day issue.. she explained more in the notes at the end.. but prostitution/human trafficking is just not the reading material I enjoy nor was it done very well anyway... character development was terrible, I ended up not liking either main character-sisters, the story dragged in the first half then rushed in the second half,
very unrealistic at times and while necessary to the plot very heavy on preaching with an emphasis on WWJD. I wanted to quit or skim but I wearily finished it for lack of other books to read.
very unrealistic at times and while necessary to the plot very heavy on preaching with an emphasis on WWJD. I wanted to quit or skim but I wearily finished it for lack of other books to read.
December 7, 2017
A thoroughly engrossing read. Band of Sisters by Cathy Gohlke is set in the early 1900s, following the lives of an Irish immigrant, Maureen, and well-off, socially-accepted Olivia, who longs to help those desperately in need. In a terrible tangle of secrets and terror, this story addresses human trafficking. Band of Sisters was well-written, real, raw, poignant, heart-wrenching ... both horrible and soul-stirring. The depth of the faith theme truly moved me. Maureen's journey to the Lord was something worth reading. The romances very tender. I feel like my heart has been torn out ... for the women whose lives were destroyed by evil people who would sell and use and abuse them - body and soul.
I really liked this book, though the end was a bit much for me to take in. My heart is broken. Band of Sisters is both a page-turner and a wake-up call to the reader about the horrors of sex trafficking and the cry for help.
I really liked this book, though the end was a bit much for me to take in. My heart is broken. Band of Sisters is both a page-turner and a wake-up call to the reader about the horrors of sex trafficking and the cry for help.
February 6, 2015
This book was so frustrating. Talk about doing things the hard way...geez! The book was about human rights one minute and "what would Jesus do?" the next. I bet he wouldn't read this book.
January 9, 2022
It took me a bit to get into it but it was good once I did. It had a danger, suspense, mystery, and romance all in one.
April 27, 2019
It was well written, it had strong characters, and the story was compelling. The beginning went a little slow for me, but eventually I was drawn in. As usual, I was a little skeptical when I realized this author is known for her Christian fiction. But the elements of faith in this novel were very believable and not over the top. Gohlke isn't using this novel to proselytize. She simply shows how matters of faith affect the lives of these characters, who all have their own struggles, cares, concerns, hopes, and dreams. It's historical fiction, involving the lives of two poor Irish women immigrating to New York in 1910--and two well-off American sisters who struggle with some of the confines of proper society. While I am not an expert on that time in NY, the setting and circumstances Gohlke portrays seem very believable to me. I did doubt whether or not Maureen would have become part of a major human trafficking bust so soon after her arrival. Would an investigator really involve an immigrant woman in something so risky in 1910--a time when women were generally ignored or brushed off as being too weak and feeble-minded? But the story presents a few liberal-minded men, and there would be no story without that wrinkle. So overall, a good read.
August 26, 2021
There was a good deal of Christian biblical references and faith based efforts on the part of many characters in this book. Given that, the author does not shy away from the historical reality of human trafficking of women for the purposes of prostitution. I found the writing compelling, the research admirable, and the characters interesting. My only problem was with Maureen staying in rejection of good people too long. Recommended for those who enjoy Christian fiction.
October 26, 2023
An excellent story. However, because of it's theme of the abuse and slavery of immigrant women I recommend it with discretion. But the question of what Jesus would have us do in response to the social injustices around us is a question that deserves our serious contemplations.
February 2, 2021
A good story about two sisters who have to flee Ireland and come to America with nothing. A few events I thought unrealistic and the last part of the book was a bit rushed but overall worth reading.
January 19, 2025
I just can’t with this book. Katie Rose is such a complete selfish bitch to her sister. And the whole WWJ D was way too much for me.
December 18, 2024
Stunning! Top of my best read books that constantly asks WWJD…what are you doing to help stamp out modern day slavery? Human trafficking must be stopped.
May 30, 2012
Band of Sisters
by Cathy Gohlke
Tyndale Publishing
September 2012
Genre: fiction, historical
It's 1910 in Ireland and Maureen O-Reilly's mother has just passed away. Left to care for her 13 year old sister, Katy Rose, and with a very serious threat looming Maureen and Katy Rose flee to America. Trying to get through Ellis Island proves to be extremely daunting and Maureen has to leave her ill sister to find work and establish herself in the new land. She has a 30 year old letter from an American friend of her father promising an inheritance and a place to live. When Maureen goes to the now deceased Colonel Wakefield's house she is quickly dismissed by a son-in-law. What she doesn't know is that her visit will begin a remarkable journey in herself and also in Olivia Wakefield (daughter of the Colonel).
Alone, desperate, and scared Maureen lies about her references to connive a job at a prominent department store. She quickly realizes that underneath the polish and glamor there is something very mysterious and dangerous going on. When girls begin disappearing from the store Maureen starts to ask questions. Little does she know the danger in her questions and the danger that lurks for every vulnerable woman in the city.
Olivia Wakefield knows very little about Maureen or her father but decides to read through her father's old journals to gather what information she can. As she reads she finds out about the influence of Mr. O-Reilly in her family's life. Determined to honor her father's wishes she begins to search for Maureen. She also is in the process of gathering her group of friends and having them ask the question, "what would Jesus do?" that will ultimately be the basis for how they live their lives.
As more information regarding the missing women is discovered a band of sisters emerges that fights for injustice and for answers. Thrust into danger and evil Maureen must decide whom she will trust and if that God she keeps hearing about could truly love a person such as herself.
This book is rich with characters and story lines. I could keep typing for hours and still have more to say. Beyond the mystery and danger there is of course a theme of romance throughout. It is well handled and well developed. Gohlke has written an extremely intricate and compelling story. Pulling stories from modern headlines and placing them in 1910 is very clever and works. I was hooked. Band of Sisters is a very well-written book. I was up late reading this one. Maureen is excellently developed and is a clear picture of a very wounded person in need of grace. There are times where her character seems overly filled with angst but that's easy to overlook. The story of grace and love throughout is really quite beautiful. The historical aspects regarding Ellis Island and the challenges of immigrants at that time is done well. This was my first read from Gohlke and I am already anxious to read more from her. She is well on her way to being an excellent story-teller.
Thanks to Tyndale Publishing for providing me with a free copy of this title in exchange for my honest review.
www.melmacsreviews.blogspot.com
by Cathy Gohlke
Tyndale Publishing
September 2012
Genre: fiction, historical
It's 1910 in Ireland and Maureen O-Reilly's mother has just passed away. Left to care for her 13 year old sister, Katy Rose, and with a very serious threat looming Maureen and Katy Rose flee to America. Trying to get through Ellis Island proves to be extremely daunting and Maureen has to leave her ill sister to find work and establish herself in the new land. She has a 30 year old letter from an American friend of her father promising an inheritance and a place to live. When Maureen goes to the now deceased Colonel Wakefield's house she is quickly dismissed by a son-in-law. What she doesn't know is that her visit will begin a remarkable journey in herself and also in Olivia Wakefield (daughter of the Colonel).
Alone, desperate, and scared Maureen lies about her references to connive a job at a prominent department store. She quickly realizes that underneath the polish and glamor there is something very mysterious and dangerous going on. When girls begin disappearing from the store Maureen starts to ask questions. Little does she know the danger in her questions and the danger that lurks for every vulnerable woman in the city.
Olivia Wakefield knows very little about Maureen or her father but decides to read through her father's old journals to gather what information she can. As she reads she finds out about the influence of Mr. O-Reilly in her family's life. Determined to honor her father's wishes she begins to search for Maureen. She also is in the process of gathering her group of friends and having them ask the question, "what would Jesus do?" that will ultimately be the basis for how they live their lives.
As more information regarding the missing women is discovered a band of sisters emerges that fights for injustice and for answers. Thrust into danger and evil Maureen must decide whom she will trust and if that God she keeps hearing about could truly love a person such as herself.
This book is rich with characters and story lines. I could keep typing for hours and still have more to say. Beyond the mystery and danger there is of course a theme of romance throughout. It is well handled and well developed. Gohlke has written an extremely intricate and compelling story. Pulling stories from modern headlines and placing them in 1910 is very clever and works. I was hooked. Band of Sisters is a very well-written book. I was up late reading this one. Maureen is excellently developed and is a clear picture of a very wounded person in need of grace. There are times where her character seems overly filled with angst but that's easy to overlook. The story of grace and love throughout is really quite beautiful. The historical aspects regarding Ellis Island and the challenges of immigrants at that time is done well. This was my first read from Gohlke and I am already anxious to read more from her. She is well on her way to being an excellent story-teller.
Thanks to Tyndale Publishing for providing me with a free copy of this title in exchange for my honest review.
www.melmacsreviews.blogspot.com
August 24, 2013
Band of Sisters—A Passionate Voice for the Oppressed
Today’s headlines shout of the unspeakable—rape, human trafficking, and oppression of the vulnerable. It’s all the more difficult to believe of a country whose constitution and laws were written to protect the innocent—but is this a new phenomenon?
In award-winning and best-selling author, Cathy Gohlke’s newest novel, Band of Sisters, we learn that today’s atrocities are not recent events, but are cruelties which have been around for centuries.
Gohlke takes us back in time to tell the story of the O’Reilly sisters, Maureen and Katie Rose.
In 1910, Maureen and her younger sister flee Ireland, a place for them that only offers a future of compromising servitude. Maureen places her hope for a better life on a new country and a twenty-year old promise made to her father by a stranger, Colonel Wakefield. Still, the promise is better than her and her sister’s present reality.
After enduring the challenges and indignities of Ellis Island, Maureen learns that their benefactor has died. There is a mix-up with Colonel Wakefield’s family, with the end result of the brother-in-law refusing to honor the colonel’s debt.
With her sister ill, and now the threat of deportation looming over her, Maureen hatches a plan to obtain employment in a department store that caters to the affluent. It’s not long before she stumbles upon an alarming subterfuge at the respectable establishment. Women are disappearing. Maureen’s experience as one oppressed by wealthy men, compels her to question—too aggressively—the disappearances.
Meanwhile, the two sisters struggle to make ends meet as well as to get along. Katie Rose is captivated by the wealthy and is blinded by the frivolous, superficial lifestyles centered on them. She even turns her back on her own sister.
As women continue to disappear, Maureen participates in a dangerous plot headed by her employer’s business partner and her friend who has recently emigrated from Ireland—and who has loved Maureen for many years.
Maureen is swallowed up by the colossal wave of human trafficking. The scope of its cruelty and deviousness is more than she could imagine or handle. What transpires will have the reader sitting long into the night, gripping the pages with anticipation to see what happens next.
For years, Cathy Gohlke has written—beautifully and with great passion—the stories of the oppressed. In Band of Sisters, she digs even deeper to bring to light the depravities of humanity, yet strives to elevate our hearts with hope for God’s healing and restoration.
Band of Sisters is also an opportunity to teach us to tune our hearts, minds, and ears to the contemporary problems of human trafficking. By teaching us, we can be like Maureen and not turn away from those in need.
Band of Sisters has become one of my favorite books.
Today’s headlines shout of the unspeakable—rape, human trafficking, and oppression of the vulnerable. It’s all the more difficult to believe of a country whose constitution and laws were written to protect the innocent—but is this a new phenomenon?
In award-winning and best-selling author, Cathy Gohlke’s newest novel, Band of Sisters, we learn that today’s atrocities are not recent events, but are cruelties which have been around for centuries.
Gohlke takes us back in time to tell the story of the O’Reilly sisters, Maureen and Katie Rose.
In 1910, Maureen and her younger sister flee Ireland, a place for them that only offers a future of compromising servitude. Maureen places her hope for a better life on a new country and a twenty-year old promise made to her father by a stranger, Colonel Wakefield. Still, the promise is better than her and her sister’s present reality.
After enduring the challenges and indignities of Ellis Island, Maureen learns that their benefactor has died. There is a mix-up with Colonel Wakefield’s family, with the end result of the brother-in-law refusing to honor the colonel’s debt.
With her sister ill, and now the threat of deportation looming over her, Maureen hatches a plan to obtain employment in a department store that caters to the affluent. It’s not long before she stumbles upon an alarming subterfuge at the respectable establishment. Women are disappearing. Maureen’s experience as one oppressed by wealthy men, compels her to question—too aggressively—the disappearances.
Meanwhile, the two sisters struggle to make ends meet as well as to get along. Katie Rose is captivated by the wealthy and is blinded by the frivolous, superficial lifestyles centered on them. She even turns her back on her own sister.
As women continue to disappear, Maureen participates in a dangerous plot headed by her employer’s business partner and her friend who has recently emigrated from Ireland—and who has loved Maureen for many years.
Maureen is swallowed up by the colossal wave of human trafficking. The scope of its cruelty and deviousness is more than she could imagine or handle. What transpires will have the reader sitting long into the night, gripping the pages with anticipation to see what happens next.
For years, Cathy Gohlke has written—beautifully and with great passion—the stories of the oppressed. In Band of Sisters, she digs even deeper to bring to light the depravities of humanity, yet strives to elevate our hearts with hope for God’s healing and restoration.
Band of Sisters is also an opportunity to teach us to tune our hearts, minds, and ears to the contemporary problems of human trafficking. By teaching us, we can be like Maureen and not turn away from those in need.
Band of Sisters has become one of my favorite books.
June 28, 2013
The year is 1910. Desperate to protect her sister from a fate similar to one she herself has suffered, Maureen O’Reilly and her sister Katie Rose flee Ireland and the lustful eyes of the landlord's son. Seeking a fulfillment of a promise a Colonel Wakefield made to her father to repay a Civil War debt, Maureen and Katie Rose travel to New York. Upon arriving in America, they face one obstacle after another, almost facing deportation, learning that Colonel Wakefield has died, and having no money to their name. After Maureen uses deception to obtain employment at a department store, she soon learns about the mysterious "better jobs" offered upstairs at the store. When woman start disappearing, Maureen fears the worst. Maureen and some unexpected allies must fight against the evil stealing women from the city, banding together to seek justice, all while Maureen must learn to overcome her own stained past.
Maureen and Katie Rose's story is a fascinating one, and I was immediately drawn into their story, into the injustices they encountered in Ireland and the poverty they found awaiting them in New York. I simply shuddered to think of two vulnerable woman being basically alone at that point in history, in a place where men were seeking to exploit them for their own desires and gain. The characters are beautifully developed, alive with colour and depth, set in the midst of difficult circumstances that fully invoked my empathy. The scenes involving the woman captured into the sex trade are truly heart-breaking and powerful in their portrayal of an unspeakable evil.
Band of Sisters is a powerfully moving story, one that proved to be even more than I expected. I picked up the book expecting to be entertained - and I was. I picked up the book expecting to encounter a well-written read - and I did. But I did not pick up the book expecting my faith to be so challenged, to feel so moved to ask myself what Jesus would do, how I should respond in the face of social injustices, in the face of need. This book is not simply a poignant story, but a call to band together as Christians to confront the evil in this world, one person at a time.
Cathy Gohlke's latest novel reminds me again why she has won two Christy awards. Her stories are simply masterfully told, and deserve to be read more than once. I highly recommend this book and award it 5 out of 5 stars.
An advanced egalley of this book was provided by the publisher, Tyndale, for the purposes of this unbiased review
Maureen and Katie Rose's story is a fascinating one, and I was immediately drawn into their story, into the injustices they encountered in Ireland and the poverty they found awaiting them in New York. I simply shuddered to think of two vulnerable woman being basically alone at that point in history, in a place where men were seeking to exploit them for their own desires and gain. The characters are beautifully developed, alive with colour and depth, set in the midst of difficult circumstances that fully invoked my empathy. The scenes involving the woman captured into the sex trade are truly heart-breaking and powerful in their portrayal of an unspeakable evil.
Band of Sisters is a powerfully moving story, one that proved to be even more than I expected. I picked up the book expecting to be entertained - and I was. I picked up the book expecting to encounter a well-written read - and I did. But I did not pick up the book expecting my faith to be so challenged, to feel so moved to ask myself what Jesus would do, how I should respond in the face of social injustices, in the face of need. This book is not simply a poignant story, but a call to band together as Christians to confront the evil in this world, one person at a time.
Cathy Gohlke's latest novel reminds me again why she has won two Christy awards. Her stories are simply masterfully told, and deserve to be read more than once. I highly recommend this book and award it 5 out of 5 stars.
An advanced egalley of this book was provided by the publisher, Tyndale, for the purposes of this unbiased review
September 14, 2012
A heart wrenching journey, that asks the question: What would Jesus do?
After the death of Lady Catherine, Maureen O'Riley finds herself without protection from her horrible employer, and she worries about her young sister, Kate, being left alone and all the moments when she can't protect her. So she heads to America with her sister and a 28 year old letter promising a future. But when they arrive Colonel Wakefield is dead and Maureen finds a job at what she supposes to be a upscale department store, but what she doesn't know is that it holds a terrible secret...
Olivia Wakefield is determined to help Maureen and Kate, and keep the promise that her father made to their father, but she can't find Maureen...
Wow, what a book! I really enjoyed Promise Me This so I was looking forward to reading Band of Sisters, and it lived up to my expectations. I thought that it started a bit slow, with everything happening so fast to Maureen and Kate, that it was hard to actually get into the story for awhile. But when I got to Olivia's part of the story, I liked her immediately, she had an admirable determination to do the right thing and change peoples' lives.
To be honest I didn't become completely involved in the story until about 1/3 of the way in, that was the point where I had a hard time putting it down :) I liked how this book dealt with the tough issue of Human Trafficking, in a compelling and heart wrenching story.
I liked the character of Olivia the most, because of how determined she was to right a wrong. Joshua Keeton was a great character too, such a nice guy! I did eventually come to like Maureen and Kate though both of them did frustrate me more than a few times over the course of the book!
Overall an excellent read, though it scared me a little in the beginning when I wasn't really sure if I would like it or not! But I loved it. This book was tough and it asked the age old question of: What would Jesus do? I just loved how that was woven into the story in such a thought provoking manner. A fulfilling and satisfying read, that will break your heart for all the right reasons.
Visit Cathy Gohlke's website here: http://authorcathygohlke.com/
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
After the death of Lady Catherine, Maureen O'Riley finds herself without protection from her horrible employer, and she worries about her young sister, Kate, being left alone and all the moments when she can't protect her. So she heads to America with her sister and a 28 year old letter promising a future. But when they arrive Colonel Wakefield is dead and Maureen finds a job at what she supposes to be a upscale department store, but what she doesn't know is that it holds a terrible secret...
Olivia Wakefield is determined to help Maureen and Kate, and keep the promise that her father made to their father, but she can't find Maureen...
Wow, what a book! I really enjoyed Promise Me This so I was looking forward to reading Band of Sisters, and it lived up to my expectations. I thought that it started a bit slow, with everything happening so fast to Maureen and Kate, that it was hard to actually get into the story for awhile. But when I got to Olivia's part of the story, I liked her immediately, she had an admirable determination to do the right thing and change peoples' lives.
To be honest I didn't become completely involved in the story until about 1/3 of the way in, that was the point where I had a hard time putting it down :) I liked how this book dealt with the tough issue of Human Trafficking, in a compelling and heart wrenching story.
I liked the character of Olivia the most, because of how determined she was to right a wrong. Joshua Keeton was a great character too, such a nice guy! I did eventually come to like Maureen and Kate though both of them did frustrate me more than a few times over the course of the book!
Overall an excellent read, though it scared me a little in the beginning when I wasn't really sure if I would like it or not! But I loved it. This book was tough and it asked the age old question of: What would Jesus do? I just loved how that was woven into the story in such a thought provoking manner. A fulfilling and satisfying read, that will break your heart for all the right reasons.
Visit Cathy Gohlke's website here: http://authorcathygohlke.com/
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
December 15, 2013
I read Cathy Gohlke's Promise Me This about a year ago and still think about that story and the main characters often. So I was excited and optimistic when I picked up Band of Sisters recently; I absolutely loved this story as well. Though they're very different books, Gohlke's prose in Band of Sisters is once again beautiful and flowing, drenched in emotion yet sparking with the truth of the human heart and the hurts that shape who we are. The author does meticulous research on the subject she's writing about, and she creates a multi-layered story that envelops the reader's mind and emotions until (and after) the last pages of the book.
Band of Sisters is a broad, thrilling historical fiction story about two desperate young women crossing the ocean to begin their lives again, not knowing the danger and intrigue that awaits them on American shores. Gohlke skillfully portrays the prevalence of the underground slavery groups and how they take advantage of the less fortunate entering Ellis Island.
The author creates memorable characters in stubborn Maureen, tender-hearted Olivia, the men who care for them, and their families. I appreciate that the author doesn't shy away from portraying life's raw reality or the tension between family members, and the powerful threads of faith, service to others, and friendship tie the story and characters together in a satisfying climax that will leave the reader both breathless and better having read it.
Cathy Gohlke is on my list of must-read authors, and I eagerly await her next book.
Band of Sisters is a broad, thrilling historical fiction story about two desperate young women crossing the ocean to begin their lives again, not knowing the danger and intrigue that awaits them on American shores. Gohlke skillfully portrays the prevalence of the underground slavery groups and how they take advantage of the less fortunate entering Ellis Island.
The author creates memorable characters in stubborn Maureen, tender-hearted Olivia, the men who care for them, and their families. I appreciate that the author doesn't shy away from portraying life's raw reality or the tension between family members, and the powerful threads of faith, service to others, and friendship tie the story and characters together in a satisfying climax that will leave the reader both breathless and better having read it.
Cathy Gohlke is on my list of must-read authors, and I eagerly await her next book.
April 22, 2013
Band of Sisters by Cathy Gohlke is a historical fiction novel. Two sisters, Maureen and Katie Rose O'Reilly emigrate to America after their mother's death to escape sexual abuse by their landlord. Enduring the ship voyage to America is only the beginning of the difficulties and challenges they face once they arrive at Ellis Island. Maureen ends up working at a department store which she eventually discovers is a front for young women being taken into sexual slavery. She and her sister are befriended by Olivia Wakefield, a wealthy young woman, whose father shared a connection with Maureen & Katie Rose's father. Olivia has a passion for helping less fortunate women and belongs to a group of women from her church who involve themselves in social justice causes. This novel has several themes---the relationship between Maureen and her sister, the relationship between Maureen and Joshua, a fellow immigrant from her village in Ireland, the plight of young women immigrants in New York City, female sexual slavery, and a spiritual theme. The author has done a good job of giving a realistic historic view of the life of young immigrant women in New York City and also how young women become victims of female sexual slavery, not only then but in today's world as well.
February 26, 2014
How dare this author take Jesus actions and demean them.
Jesus never got involved in the social or political issues of his day.
(John 6:15) "Then Jesus, knowing that they were about to come and seize him to make him king, withdrew again to the mountain all alone."
He taught God's Kingdom will be the solution to the problems and for those to obey God to have the best way of life. Matthew 4:17, 23 Matthew 5:3: Luke 4:43
She is good at misquoting verses to suit her situation. But forgetting or ignoring the verses where Jesus said "I am no part of this world." John 17:14.
.
In fact Jesus was clear about those that try to twist 'good works' claiming they are works of Jesus.
(Matthew 7:21-23) "Not everyone saying to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter into the Kingdom of the heavens, but only the one doing the will of my Father who is in the heavens will. Many will say to me in that day: ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and expel demons in your name, and perform many powerful works in your name?’ And then I will declare to them: ‘I never knew you! Get away from me, you workers of lawlessness!’"
If someone does not want to proclaim the Kingdom, and all it stands for, please do not write in the name of Jesus.
Jesus never got involved in the social or political issues of his day.
(John 6:15) "Then Jesus, knowing that they were about to come and seize him to make him king, withdrew again to the mountain all alone."
He taught God's Kingdom will be the solution to the problems and for those to obey God to have the best way of life. Matthew 4:17, 23 Matthew 5:3: Luke 4:43
She is good at misquoting verses to suit her situation. But forgetting or ignoring the verses where Jesus said "I am no part of this world." John 17:14.
.
In fact Jesus was clear about those that try to twist 'good works' claiming they are works of Jesus.
(Matthew 7:21-23) "Not everyone saying to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter into the Kingdom of the heavens, but only the one doing the will of my Father who is in the heavens will. Many will say to me in that day: ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and expel demons in your name, and perform many powerful works in your name?’ And then I will declare to them: ‘I never knew you! Get away from me, you workers of lawlessness!’"
If someone does not want to proclaim the Kingdom, and all it stands for, please do not write in the name of Jesus.
June 6, 2015
This book was a pleasant surprise! Honestly, the only reason I read it was cause I needed to read a book where the author and I shared initials. But that is exactly why I am doing this book challenge: to find authors and stories I wouldn't have read otherwise!
The ending became a little over the top, but in general I very much enjoyed the plot of the book. I enjoyed her writing style and was never distracted with poor grammar or repetitive, boring vocabulary. Unfortunately, I find it hard to find that in many Christian fiction novels. I'll be reading more of this author!
The ending became a little over the top, but in general I very much enjoyed the plot of the book. I enjoyed her writing style and was never distracted with poor grammar or repetitive, boring vocabulary. Unfortunately, I find it hard to find that in many Christian fiction novels. I'll be reading more of this author!
June 2, 2020
This book was very good for the most part. But about halfway thru I found it started to drag. And there started to be way too many prayers, presented as “thoughts” for my taste. And I’m a Christian who goes to church every Sunday! At first, these prayers were occasional, which was fine. But then they happened more and more, and I found that they distracted me from the story. About halfway through, maybe a bit more, I found myself constantly wondering, “When is this book going to end?” I decided not to wait for the ending, and bailed with less than a quarter of the book left.
January 23, 2021
3.5 stars. Sad, but well written book. A tale of 2 sisters coming to America from Ireland to escape a terrible situation but instead entering into a more horrific world than they could have imagined. This story deals with something that is still happening in our modern society: sex trafficking. It pulled at heartstrings, has a touch of romance, but I didn’t expect the religious parts. I think that is what kept me from giving it a higher rating. Just thought I’d mention it. Not a bad book overall- I just wish it wasn’t so heavy on the religious aspects.
June 17, 2014
I really enjoyed Band of Sisters. A very well told story about a difficult topic...white slavery at the turn of the century. Ellis Island, child labor, etc. Two sister immigrate from Ireland and their ensuing struggles getting through Ellis Island and trying to start a new life. Excellent read...highly recommend this book and look forward to more by Cathy Gohlke.
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