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The House on Malcolm Street
It is the autumn of 1920 and Leah Breckenridge is desperate to find a way to provide for her young daughter. After losing her husband and infant son in an accident, she is angry at God and fearful about the future. Finding refuge in a boardinghouse run by her late husband's aunt, Leah's heart begins the slow process of mending. Is it the people who surround her--or perhaps this very house--that reach into her heart with healing? Delightful, realistic characters and skilled writing make The House on Malcolm Street a treasure. Leisha Kelly's fans and new readers alike will find this simple story about the complexities of life an engrossing read.
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2010
73 people are currently reading
408 people want to read
About the author
Leisha Kelly
16 books73 followersaka L.A. Kelly
A resident of Clayton, Ill., Kelly authored 11 books, including the best-selling historical fiction series centered around the Wortham and Hammond families—published by Revell/Baker Publishing Group. Her most recent book, The House on Malcolm Street, was published by Revell in September 2010.
Kelly, who home-schooled her two children, served as children's ministry director and youth minister at her family's church.
On January 25, 2011, Leisha and her son, Justice, were killed in a traffic accident.
A resident of Clayton, Ill., Kelly authored 11 books, including the best-selling historical fiction series centered around the Wortham and Hammond families—published by Revell/Baker Publishing Group. Her most recent book, The House on Malcolm Street, was published by Revell in September 2010.
Kelly, who home-schooled her two children, served as children's ministry director and youth minister at her family's church.
On January 25, 2011, Leisha and her son, Justice, were killed in a traffic accident.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
October 4, 2010
2.5 stars
To me books are like paintings and author's are the artists. It's so hard to judge art, for instance you may like the painting, others may not and vice versa. When you know that someone has put a lot of time and effort and heart and soul into something it's hard to say that you don't care for it. Unfortunately I have to say that I didn't care for this book. I read A LOT of Christian fiction and most I love but I don't like everything and I am sure you don't either. I may love a book and you might say it's not your cup of tea. As individuals we all have different tastes and we're entitled to our own opinions, that said you may really enjoy this book.
I've never read anything by this author before but she's gotten rave reviews so I'm sure some of her other books are excellent and I may pick one up someday. Last week I read a book by an author that I love and I didn't like it as much as I thought I would so just because Ms. Kelly is new to me doesn't mean I won't give her another shot. ;-)
The House on Malcolm Street is the story of Leah Breckenridge, her daughter Eliza, widower Josiah and Marigold; the owner of the boarding house where they all come to stay. Leah and Josiah both are extremely sad people who have lost their spouses and children to tragic accidents and illness. I guess that's one reason this wasn't one of my favorite books it is SO sad. There is so much heartbreak in this book it's not something that you want to read to be uplifted. I myself couldn't relate to any of the characters because I've never experienced tragedy quite like what they went through.
It was really difficult to get into because nothing really "happened" until about 3/4 of the way through the book. We're with the characters as they garden, repair holes in the house roof and mundane things like that. The most interesting part of the book was probably the sweet relationship between elderly Marigold and her Jewish neighbor, Mr. Abraham, I'm such a romantic. I almost wish the story was focused more on their relationship. Even though they got what they were hoping for I will say this, this book definitely did not have an unrealistic ending, everyone did not live in the perfect world of happily ever after. I could definitely see my grandmother reading something like this but if you're a reader of light, fun fiction or a good romance like me it might not be your thing. If you liek your fiction on the serious side you might enjoy it. I hope if you do give it a try that you will like it!
*I received my copy from Donna @ Revell Publishers in exchange from posting my honest review
To me books are like paintings and author's are the artists. It's so hard to judge art, for instance you may like the painting, others may not and vice versa. When you know that someone has put a lot of time and effort and heart and soul into something it's hard to say that you don't care for it. Unfortunately I have to say that I didn't care for this book. I read A LOT of Christian fiction and most I love but I don't like everything and I am sure you don't either. I may love a book and you might say it's not your cup of tea. As individuals we all have different tastes and we're entitled to our own opinions, that said you may really enjoy this book.
I've never read anything by this author before but she's gotten rave reviews so I'm sure some of her other books are excellent and I may pick one up someday. Last week I read a book by an author that I love and I didn't like it as much as I thought I would so just because Ms. Kelly is new to me doesn't mean I won't give her another shot. ;-)
The House on Malcolm Street is the story of Leah Breckenridge, her daughter Eliza, widower Josiah and Marigold; the owner of the boarding house where they all come to stay. Leah and Josiah both are extremely sad people who have lost their spouses and children to tragic accidents and illness. I guess that's one reason this wasn't one of my favorite books it is SO sad. There is so much heartbreak in this book it's not something that you want to read to be uplifted. I myself couldn't relate to any of the characters because I've never experienced tragedy quite like what they went through.
It was really difficult to get into because nothing really "happened" until about 3/4 of the way through the book. We're with the characters as they garden, repair holes in the house roof and mundane things like that. The most interesting part of the book was probably the sweet relationship between elderly Marigold and her Jewish neighbor, Mr. Abraham, I'm such a romantic. I almost wish the story was focused more on their relationship. Even though they got what they were hoping for I will say this, this book definitely did not have an unrealistic ending, everyone did not live in the perfect world of happily ever after. I could definitely see my grandmother reading something like this but if you're a reader of light, fun fiction or a good romance like me it might not be your thing. If you liek your fiction on the serious side you might enjoy it. I hope if you do give it a try that you will like it!
*I received my copy from Donna @ Revell Publishers in exchange from posting my honest review
February 16, 2011
This is a very difficult reveiw to write. At the beginning, I liked this book with an embittered young widow with her wide eyed six year old eternal optimist daughter. Having lost her husband to a train accident and her son to the Grear Flu epidemic of 1917, Leah and her daughter go to her husband's aunt's boardinghouse for temporary shelter and to begin a new life. There was a part early on in this book that I adored and readig it brought back many happy memories of picking apples, making applesauce, apple butter and apple jelly with my mother. I quit on page 150! The religious part of the book came over like a steam roller. I would have enjoyed this book and probably given it a four star review if it all had been subtle but I think anyone of a different, even slightly different faith would shrink from this book.
June 30, 2014
I found this book depressing. If one is interested in a book with a great deal of content based on one's emotional state, then this is the book. I felt the whole book could have been reduced to one chapter. Too wordy for me. The story line is good, but nothing much really develops. Perhaps I just enjoy more action in a book, but it never got going for me.
December 2, 2013
Very slow. One of those books I was glad to finish!
June 9, 2011
Maybe because I was expecting a novel with at least a hint of romance, this novel disappointed me a little. By page 251 Leah and Josiah are still so prickly and uncomfortable around each other that I felt that way when they were together. I found the authors characters to be very believable but I hoped to see Leah open up a little more. However I must say, as it is written, it feels authentic. This is my first book by this author and for some reason, it had been hard for me to complete it but I can see why someone enjoy reading her.
November 28, 2010
Shows how helping others can help us to heal.
October 5, 2022
I don't know what it was about this book that made me think it wouldn't be all that great. To be sure, the title isn't all that accurate; and the cover of the book in general looks rather cliché. But thankfully, the story does not match the first impression.
Setting: Begins in September 1920, and the two locations are Andersonville, Illinois (presuming not the urban neighborhood of Chicago, this is a fictional place), and Missouri (St. Louis and the real rural area of Sugar Creek). The writing gives a subtle but pretty accurate 1920-feel; there are few explicit era references, aside from a brief mention of World War I and prejudice against Jews, which isn't emphasized--or shown--nearly at all. All the characters lead pretty much a simple life still reminiscent of the 1910s (and, really, the rural 1920s, too--not everyone became a flapper). The agricultural bounty of living in a rural town is displayed quite well. Trains are displayed as the main way of traveling, especially long distances.
The "house on Malcolm Street" is apparently a boarding house, but this fact is barely discernible, as boarders basically don't appear for the whole book. It seems a bit of a problem--Marigold isn't getting an income from anywhere else, besides Josiah--but I soon stopped caring for the sake of Leah and her troubles.
Characters: I must be softening toward female main characters, for even though I often wanted to strangle Leah, I still liked her. She has a distinct personality, and her character arc is very well done--not rushed at all. Initially she's incredibly rude (probably a symptom of living in the city too long), and she continues to be rather snippy with Josiah--as well as dishonest by her silence--but she is a great hard worker, and strong in her own way, with Eliza.
Josiah also has a well-done character arc. His relationship with Marigold is precious. And his personality is nicely consistent (if a little frustrating and tactless). Most amusing of all is his awkwardness. Not just with Leah, but also with anyone else. Including the little girl. Including himself. Honestly, he provides the comic relief, though I don't know if that was intentional.
Sometimes little children are hard to write, and Eliza isn't the most naturally-written daughter. Sure, I know children are sometimes profound, and their faith can be stronger than that of adults. But I didn't quite know how she gained such wisdom, considering the state of her mother's faith. Still, it is very sweet, and I'm glad Eliza takes a significant part of the story.
To wrap up, just a quick note on Marigold: I love her strong faith and deep understanding, but she is by no means a perfect person, and she doesn't relate to others perfectly. I appreciated that.
Plot: There are two major threads that drive Leah's character arc and faith journey, neither of which are immediately obvious. The romance does not take a front seat (though a side romance is fairly prominent), which is great, because its inclusion would have thrown Leah's character arc out of whack and been incredibly forced. Still, its obviousness (there being two main characters of opposite gender) leads to easy conclusions on the reader's part.
No, the real family-centered plot is much better, much sweeter, and elicited many more tears from me.
The story isn't necessarily fast-paced, but there is something that made me turn the pages remarkably fast.
Faith Content: Both main characters are Christians, and both have major growing to do. Marigold, the one strong Christian, is a strong catalyst. The peace of God and overcoming fear are major themes; the issue of "forgiving yourself" (a pet peeve of mine) is brought up, but actually isn't pushed, to my sensitive reading tastes; in fact, it seems to be gently quashed. Josiah does make an unbiblical statement about "not trying to be perfect," but perhaps it helped in the moment, and mostly I approved of the spiritual positions. Josiah and Leah have much different approaches to spiritual things, and I enjoyed the contrast.
Overall, for readers who like strong family themes with a lesser romantic thread, I highly recommend this book.
Setting: Begins in September 1920, and the two locations are Andersonville, Illinois (presuming not the urban neighborhood of Chicago, this is a fictional place), and Missouri (St. Louis and the real rural area of Sugar Creek). The writing gives a subtle but pretty accurate 1920-feel; there are few explicit era references, aside from a brief mention of World War I and prejudice against Jews, which isn't emphasized--or shown--nearly at all. All the characters lead pretty much a simple life still reminiscent of the 1910s (and, really, the rural 1920s, too--not everyone became a flapper). The agricultural bounty of living in a rural town is displayed quite well. Trains are displayed as the main way of traveling, especially long distances.
The "house on Malcolm Street" is apparently a boarding house, but this fact is barely discernible, as boarders basically don't appear for the whole book. It seems a bit of a problem--Marigold isn't getting an income from anywhere else, besides Josiah--but I soon stopped caring for the sake of Leah and her troubles.
Characters: I must be softening toward female main characters, for even though I often wanted to strangle Leah, I still liked her. She has a distinct personality, and her character arc is very well done--not rushed at all. Initially she's incredibly rude (probably a symptom of living in the city too long), and she continues to be rather snippy with Josiah--as well as dishonest by her silence--but she is a great hard worker, and strong in her own way, with Eliza.
Josiah also has a well-done character arc. His relationship with Marigold is precious. And his personality is nicely consistent (if a little frustrating and tactless). Most amusing of all is his awkwardness. Not just with Leah, but also with anyone else. Including the little girl. Including himself. Honestly, he provides the comic relief, though I don't know if that was intentional.
Sometimes little children are hard to write, and Eliza isn't the most naturally-written daughter. Sure, I know children are sometimes profound, and their faith can be stronger than that of adults. But I didn't quite know how she gained such wisdom, considering the state of her mother's faith. Still, it is very sweet, and I'm glad Eliza takes a significant part of the story.
To wrap up, just a quick note on Marigold: I love her strong faith and deep understanding, but she is by no means a perfect person, and she doesn't relate to others perfectly. I appreciated that.
Plot: There are two major threads that drive Leah's character arc and faith journey, neither of which are immediately obvious. The romance does not take a front seat (though a side romance is fairly prominent), which is great, because its inclusion would have thrown Leah's character arc out of whack and been incredibly forced. Still, its obviousness (there being two main characters of opposite gender) leads to easy conclusions on the reader's part.
No, the real family-centered plot is much better, much sweeter, and elicited many more tears from me.
The story isn't necessarily fast-paced, but there is something that made me turn the pages remarkably fast.
Faith Content: Both main characters are Christians, and both have major growing to do. Marigold, the one strong Christian, is a strong catalyst. The peace of God and overcoming fear are major themes; the issue of "forgiving yourself" (a pet peeve of mine) is brought up, but actually isn't pushed, to my sensitive reading tastes; in fact, it seems to be gently quashed. Josiah does make an unbiblical statement about "not trying to be perfect," but perhaps it helped in the moment, and mostly I approved of the spiritual positions. Josiah and Leah have much different approaches to spiritual things, and I enjoyed the contrast.
Overall, for readers who like strong family themes with a lesser romantic thread, I highly recommend this book.
October 7, 2018
This is the first book that I've read by this author. I'll say that it won't be my last. I found the story to be quite interesting. The characters were dimensional and had very distinct personalities. Eliza was so full of life and her faith shined with her amazing outlook. I can only hope that I can be like her someday.
It surprised me to see how much loss and hurt can affect those around the ones directly affected with such tragedies. I found the story uplifting because it showed how much we need each other to help get through difficult situations. Grief isn't a set formula and we all handle it differently. It was nice to see how important it is to be there for each other as God has directed us to be. It not only blesses the receiver but the giver as well.
I found myself thinking about the characters quite a bit even when I wasn't reading. That says a lot about the impact this novel had on me. It was a very enjoyable and enlightening read.
It surprised me to see how much loss and hurt can affect those around the ones directly affected with such tragedies. I found the story uplifting because it showed how much we need each other to help get through difficult situations. Grief isn't a set formula and we all handle it differently. It was nice to see how important it is to be there for each other as God has directed us to be. It not only blesses the receiver but the giver as well.
I found myself thinking about the characters quite a bit even when I wasn't reading. That says a lot about the impact this novel had on me. It was a very enjoyable and enlightening read.
May 16, 2018
I was hoping for faith-touched historical story with a bit of romance. I liked the idea of the plot, but the characters' doubts about their faith got a bit too heavy and I found myself skimming whole paragraphs, then whole pages. "Oh, she's going to lament her lack of faith again. Got it." or "Oh, they're going to quote scripture again. Got it." The plot kind of slogged along for about 2/3 of the book. Anyway. I've read other books by this author that were much better. I will probably read others. But I don't recommend this one unless it's the book you've got and you need something to get you through your reading addiction until you get another one.
February 18, 2023
It is tragic to know that this probably was her last book that she wrote, a stand-alone novel based upon a young women and man dealing with separate yet common tragedies in their live. She managers to touch on a plethora of topics including facing death, loss of loved ones, facing down your fears, childhood nightmares, forgiveness of others and yourself, the Jewish faith versus being a Christian and living a life to serve and help others. The young girl in the story with her childlike faith is a precious moment each time you see her name Eliza (my granddaughter's name). It is certainly worth reading and going back and enjoying all her novels that we do have from this talented author.
August 18, 2017
This was a lovely book set in the 1920's. Leah is a widow with a young daughter. She has a lot of grief to work through and her faith is shaken. Her husband and son are dead. She has little means to support herself and her child. Her father always yells and speaks hatefully towards her. She's dealt with nightmares almost as long as she can remember.
In a moment of bravery, she and her daughter relocated to Andersonville, Illinois, to the home of her husband's aunt. It is there, she starts her journey back to God, back to faith, and back to her family.
In a moment of bravery, she and her daughter relocated to Andersonville, Illinois, to the home of her husband's aunt. It is there, she starts her journey back to God, back to faith, and back to her family.
April 7, 2018
Set in the Midwest in the 1920's, newly widowed Leah & her young daughter move in with her husband's aunt in an Illinois boardinghouse. Leah is destitute & has been living on the streets of St. Louis since she has no source of income. This story tells about how Leah works through her grief & her nightmares. The historical fiction element is interesting, but the Christian viewpoint is heavy handed & does not flow with the plot line.
August 5, 2019
This story was really sweet. I started it a while back and read it in snatches, and it just took me a while to read it. Not because the story wasn't wonderful, but when I start a book y reading a chapter here one week, and a couple of pages the next, I can't seem to get out of that habit.
This isn't a romance book. While there are hints at a future romance, this is really about people who are hurting finding hope and healing.
I look forward to reading more of Kelly's books.
This isn't a romance book. While there are hints at a future romance, this is really about people who are hurting finding hope and healing.
I look forward to reading more of Kelly's books.
October 15, 2023
3.5 stars
I didn't love it or hate it to be honest. I have read other books by this Author that I did really enjoy. I found this quite slow for the most part. Parts of it I enjoyed, but I felt it dragged a bit for my liking. I did like Leah's daughter, she was always encouraging her mother in her faith. I read this via KU
I didn't love it or hate it to be honest. I have read other books by this Author that I did really enjoy. I found this quite slow for the most part. Parts of it I enjoyed, but I felt it dragged a bit for my liking. I did like Leah's daughter, she was always encouraging her mother in her faith. I read this via KU
April 9, 2019
Such a good story with sincere views of grief and loss, love and hope, and most of all how faith supports us through one and grants us access to the other!! I love walking away from a story with my own faith bolstured and this book did just that.
April 14, 2021
I really like this author and have read most of her books. But it was difficult to read about a woman who always seemed angry and anxious. She and a neighbor are obviously being thrown together, as a romantic aside, but she resists the entire book. So, not sure what the point of the book was.
July 8, 2017
Good read
A good Christian novel with wonderful characters. Shows God's wonderful mercy and how he works through others to heal our brokenness.
A good Christian novel with wonderful characters. Shows God's wonderful mercy and how he works through others to heal our brokenness.
July 3, 2018
Much of this book was kind of slow. It got better toward the end but then ended abruptly. I would've liked more on the characters at the end. But she did present the gospel message well and clearly.
May 9, 2022
I enjoyed this story. It's a decent Christian book.
February 23, 2024
Ok. Too God-y for me.
I don't mind a religious book, but this felt like a sermon with a story interjected within. I didn't finish it.
I don't mind a religious book, but this felt like a sermon with a story interjected within. I didn't finish it.
February 26, 2024
Would read over again!!
March 21, 2017
Great!
This book trailed a young woman with genuine fears and heartache....good example of God's love and comfort for us att
This book trailed a young woman with genuine fears and heartache....good example of God's love and comfort for us att
October 3, 2010
It's the fall of 1920 and Leah Breckenridge's life has changed so much the last year that she is basically lost. Her husband was killed in an accident, and then her baby son dies from the influenza. If that isn't enough to overwhelm her she couldn't pay the rent, and has found herself along with her six yr old daughter Eliza, also called Ellie, homeless. She can't go back home to her parents, her mother is dead, and her dad had never really made her feel welcome. The only option she has is to go to Illinois to stay with her husbands Aunt Marigold who runs a boardinghouse.The only issue is Leah has a terrible fear of trains, and that is the only way for her to travel, so she must put her fears aside and do whats best for her daughter.
Upon arriving in Ill. she meets Josiah who offers to take her to the boarding house only to find out that he actually lives there with Marigold. Turns out he was a childhood friend of Leah's husband and a distant relative of Marigolds. Leah and Josiah don't hit it off at all, she gets the feeling he doesn't want her there, but unknown to her is the fact that he is dealing with his own grief. Will Leah find refuge at the House On Malcolm Street, and can she find her way back to God?
This was an amazing story, Leisha Kelly really knows how to draw you into a story and hold your attention until the end.She tells this story from the perspective of two people Leah and Josiah. In telling the story this way you get swept away with both characters feelings,their pain and grief literally jump off the page. The nightmares and the fear of trains that had plagued Leah most of her life draws us in with a bit of mystery which isn't resolved until the end of the story. The characters develop very well in this book and you quickly become immersed in their stories.
Leah had lost so much, even her faith in God, but her daughter had enough faith for both of them, and when they get to Marigold's house and we see what a kind, compassionate woman she is I was relieved that they might find a home. I also liked Marigold's ministry and how she could get people around her to help, allowing them to feel good about doing for others, the relationship with her neighbor was also another aspect of the book that I really enjoyed.
The only downside to this book was that it ended. I wanted to keep on reading about these characters, I can easily see how there could be a sequel to this book, I really hope that's the case because I want to read more about the people on Malcolm Street.
I would easily rate this book a 5/5
Even though I was provided a copy of this book by Revell, thanks Ms. Hausler, it in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
Upon arriving in Ill. she meets Josiah who offers to take her to the boarding house only to find out that he actually lives there with Marigold. Turns out he was a childhood friend of Leah's husband and a distant relative of Marigolds. Leah and Josiah don't hit it off at all, she gets the feeling he doesn't want her there, but unknown to her is the fact that he is dealing with his own grief. Will Leah find refuge at the House On Malcolm Street, and can she find her way back to God?
This was an amazing story, Leisha Kelly really knows how to draw you into a story and hold your attention until the end.She tells this story from the perspective of two people Leah and Josiah. In telling the story this way you get swept away with both characters feelings,their pain and grief literally jump off the page. The nightmares and the fear of trains that had plagued Leah most of her life draws us in with a bit of mystery which isn't resolved until the end of the story. The characters develop very well in this book and you quickly become immersed in their stories.
Leah had lost so much, even her faith in God, but her daughter had enough faith for both of them, and when they get to Marigold's house and we see what a kind, compassionate woman she is I was relieved that they might find a home. I also liked Marigold's ministry and how she could get people around her to help, allowing them to feel good about doing for others, the relationship with her neighbor was also another aspect of the book that I really enjoyed.
The only downside to this book was that it ended. I wanted to keep on reading about these characters, I can easily see how there could be a sequel to this book, I really hope that's the case because I want to read more about the people on Malcolm Street.
I would easily rate this book a 5/5
Even though I was provided a copy of this book by Revell, thanks Ms. Hausler, it in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
October 15, 2010
I have been a big fan of Leisha Kelly's ever since I picked up Julia’s Hope a few years ago.
Her newest book, The House on Malcolm Street, left me hoping that there will be a second book continuing the story of Leah Breckenridge. This is a heart wrenching story of tragedy and loss as well as the hope that can spring from the depths of grief. What endeared me to Leah was her will to keep moving, in spite of her brokenness and vulnerability.
While adjusting to the unexpected loss of her husband and young son, Leah forces herself to not give in to the dark shadows of grief and depression threatening to swallow her. She does her best to keep going for the sake of her 6 year old daughter, Eliza, the only bright spot Leah has in her life. With nowhere to go and no means of supporting herself, Leah accepts an invitation from her late husband’s aunt Marigold, to come and stay at the boarding house Marigold owns.
Though Leah never intends to stay for long, she finds comfort in knowing that she has a safe place to regroup and get back on her own two feet. At the boarding house Leah finds that she’s not the only one dealing with loss and somehow manages to reach out to others during her own time of need. The end of this story was surprising because it didn’t go the way I thought it would. I am always impressed when authors throw in a twist and keep the readers hooked. Not only do I love that Leisha Kelly set this story in the 1920’s (one of my favorite eras to read about), I enjoyed how real she made each character and their struggles.
It is so easy to get lost in her books - I’ve never met a book by Leisha Kelly that I didn’t enjoy! I highly recommend this book.
Download an excerpt:
http://www.revellbooks.com/ME2/Audien...
January 29, 2011
Title: THE HOUSE ON MALCOLM STREET
Author: Leisha Kelly
Publisher: Revell
September 2010
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3328-5
Genre: Inspirational/historical/women’s fiction
Leah Breckenridge has faced the ultimate in loss. In less than two years she lost her mother, her husband, her newborn son, her home, and most of their belongings. All she has left is her six-year-old daughter, Elisa Rose. Angry at God, Leah and Ellie have no place to go but to her husband’s elderly aunt, Marigold, who owns a boarding house.
Arriving unexpected, late at night, no one is at the station to meet them. Encumbered with two heavy bags and a drowsy daughter, Leah is still more than reluctant to accept a stranger’s help. He’s insistent though, especially so when he discovers they’re going to the same place.
Aunt Marigold offers Leah and Ellie the best room in the house, and Leah offers to help in exchange for free rent. The only downside is Josiah—Aunt Marigold’s nephew, the man who helped Leah. Is there any hope that Leah’s heart will heal and she’ll discover that God loved them and helped them all along?
THE HOUSE ON MALCOLM STREET is the latest release by acclaimed author Leisha Kelly. She is talented and able to bring the characters to life, causing us to feel some sympathy for Leah and the terrible situation she and Ellie found themselves in. I hoped Leah would be able to mend the relationship with her estranged father, and find a new hope for the future.
This is women’s fiction, not a romance, which disappointment me, but it is still good, though sad, and there is a hope-for-a-romance in the book. I was disappointed in the overall plot and the death factor, but it's a story of healing from loss, not romance. $14.99. 346 pages.
Author: Leisha Kelly
Publisher: Revell
September 2010
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3328-5
Genre: Inspirational/historical/women’s fiction
Leah Breckenridge has faced the ultimate in loss. In less than two years she lost her mother, her husband, her newborn son, her home, and most of their belongings. All she has left is her six-year-old daughter, Elisa Rose. Angry at God, Leah and Ellie have no place to go but to her husband’s elderly aunt, Marigold, who owns a boarding house.
Arriving unexpected, late at night, no one is at the station to meet them. Encumbered with two heavy bags and a drowsy daughter, Leah is still more than reluctant to accept a stranger’s help. He’s insistent though, especially so when he discovers they’re going to the same place.
Aunt Marigold offers Leah and Ellie the best room in the house, and Leah offers to help in exchange for free rent. The only downside is Josiah—Aunt Marigold’s nephew, the man who helped Leah. Is there any hope that Leah’s heart will heal and she’ll discover that God loved them and helped them all along?
THE HOUSE ON MALCOLM STREET is the latest release by acclaimed author Leisha Kelly. She is talented and able to bring the characters to life, causing us to feel some sympathy for Leah and the terrible situation she and Ellie found themselves in. I hoped Leah would be able to mend the relationship with her estranged father, and find a new hope for the future.
This is women’s fiction, not a romance, which disappointment me, but it is still good, though sad, and there is a hope-for-a-romance in the book. I was disappointed in the overall plot and the death factor, but it's a story of healing from loss, not romance. $14.99. 346 pages.
October 9, 2010
The House on Malcolm Street by Leisha Kelly is a thoughtful and moving historical novel. Leah Breckenridge has had a terrible year; first her mother died, then her husband, John, was killed in a tragic train accident, and finally her infant son Johnny died in the flu epidemic. Leah and daughter Eliza are left alone, homeless and broke, and because of a abusive relationship with her father she cannot stay with him, so she hesitantly accepts an invitation from John's aunt Marigold to stay with her in her boarding house. Eliza thrives with Aunt Mari's faith filling the house, but Leah is still angry with God for taking away those she loved. Aunt Mari's other border is Josiah Walsh, a childhood friend of John's who also lost his wife and their unborn child in a tragic accident. Mari hopes that the two can help heal the other's wounds, but both are too caught up in their own grief to reach out. Kelly's novel isn't exactly a romance, but it is poignant and heart-felt. Readers will ache for both Leah's and Josiah's loss, and while Leah's secret may be obvious to readers, it's revelation is still profound. There are several storylines loose at the end of the novel, will Saul and Mari's relationship last the prejudice of their neighbors? Will Josiah and Leah move forward to love? I hope that Kelly gives readers a sequel answering these questions and giving another look at the Kurcher family as well.
September 17, 2010
With a great deal of turmoil surrounding the characters in this novel, THE HOUSE ON MALCOLM STREET deals primarily with internal emotion and the actions of the main characters: Leah and Josiah.
I had a difficult time really becoming involved in this story. Most of the novel tended toward the slow side. And though there was plenty of turmoil for every character and they all had their angst to work through,I thought it might have been too much. I think something else could have been brought into the story to add a diversion, however slight from the main conflict. I personally felt it was overstated at times.
I did think, going into this book, that it was going to be a romance, but it isn't. It is definitely a character's journey, and while I don't mind that at all, and do enjoy reading those kind of books, I think in this case a bit of romance might have helped move the plot.
I adored Eliza, the little girl in the story, especially her pension for certain words and their usage. She brought that bit of spark to the story.
This hasn't been my favorite story this year, but that isn't to say someone else won't enjoy it. This just happens to be my personal opinion.
Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
Available October 2010 from Revell, a division of Baker Publishers.
I had a difficult time really becoming involved in this story. Most of the novel tended toward the slow side. And though there was plenty of turmoil for every character and they all had their angst to work through,I thought it might have been too much. I think something else could have been brought into the story to add a diversion, however slight from the main conflict. I personally felt it was overstated at times.
I did think, going into this book, that it was going to be a romance, but it isn't. It is definitely a character's journey, and while I don't mind that at all, and do enjoy reading those kind of books, I think in this case a bit of romance might have helped move the plot.
I adored Eliza, the little girl in the story, especially her pension for certain words and their usage. She brought that bit of spark to the story.
This hasn't been my favorite story this year, but that isn't to say someone else won't enjoy it. This just happens to be my personal opinion.
Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
Available October 2010 from Revell, a division of Baker Publishers.
October 3, 2010
I’ve read many of Leisha Kelly’s books, but “The House on Malcolm Street” is the best. This book is written in first person both from Leah and Josiah-the two main characters in the story. Eliza is the six-year-old daughter who is sweet, kind, always taking care of her mother.
Leah and her daughter come to live with Marigold McSweeney, {all of the women in her family have flowers as first names} an aunt of her husband's because she has nowhere else to go.
Recently Leah has lost her husband and infant son. Josiah has lost his pregnant wife years ago. They both are living at Marigold’s boarding house and at first they can’t stand to be in the same room. Marigold and her Jewish neighbor Saul are very good friends.
This book is full of tragedy, sadness, mystery, working through problems, helping others, love, finally peace. I would really recommend this book for you to read, keep and share with all of your friends. You won’t be sorry you bought it. Don’t you just love the cover? It’s a sweet, peaceful kind of look.
I received my free copy from Donna Hausler from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group for my review.
Leah and her daughter come to live with Marigold McSweeney, {all of the women in her family have flowers as first names} an aunt of her husband's because she has nowhere else to go.
Recently Leah has lost her husband and infant son. Josiah has lost his pregnant wife years ago. They both are living at Marigold’s boarding house and at first they can’t stand to be in the same room. Marigold and her Jewish neighbor Saul are very good friends.
This book is full of tragedy, sadness, mystery, working through problems, helping others, love, finally peace. I would really recommend this book for you to read, keep and share with all of your friends. You won’t be sorry you bought it. Don’t you just love the cover? It’s a sweet, peaceful kind of look.
I received my free copy from Donna Hausler from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group for my review.
October 11, 2013
Thanks to the Revell review program, I was able to read The House on Malcolm Street. It's the story, set in the '20s, of Leah and her precocious 6-year-old daughter Eliza. They have no place to go after the untimely death of Leah's husband, so they move in with his kindly older Aunt Marigold.
The story is sweet. That's how I'd describe the book: sweet. No big highs or lows. Honestly, I probably would have enjoyed it more had I not read it right after the breathtaking Thirteen Moons. You know the way you wouldn't want your kid to have to perform right after the child prodigy does? That type of thing. It also leads me again to my on-going lament about why can't we have truly excellent Christian fiction, music, etc. nowadays? Where is our current C.S. Lewis? If you've read him/her, please let me know.
But, it's a nice Christian story. I probably enjoyed the last 50 pages the most; it had a good ending and (in my opinion of course) could have benefited from some editing in the middle, cutting out 50 pages or so there. If you like gentle Christian fiction, you'll most likely enjoy this book.
The story is sweet. That's how I'd describe the book: sweet. No big highs or lows. Honestly, I probably would have enjoyed it more had I not read it right after the breathtaking Thirteen Moons. You know the way you wouldn't want your kid to have to perform right after the child prodigy does? That type of thing. It also leads me again to my on-going lament about why can't we have truly excellent Christian fiction, music, etc. nowadays? Where is our current C.S. Lewis? If you've read him/her, please let me know.
But, it's a nice Christian story. I probably enjoyed the last 50 pages the most; it had a good ending and (in my opinion of course) could have benefited from some editing in the middle, cutting out 50 pages or so there. If you like gentle Christian fiction, you'll most likely enjoy this book.
October 9, 2010
Leisha Kelly is a new author for me and I was surprised to see how many books she has written that I had not heard of. I always enjoy reading authors that are new to me because I enjoy such a wide variety of stories and writing styles. I found Leisha’s writing style in The House on Malcolm Street very appealing. This book is not the usual Christian romance story, which is a refreshing change. This story is more about the grief that Leah is experiencing after her husband’s death. It is also about her irrational fear of trains and about her loss of faith in God. I really enjoyed the deeply emotional aspect of this book and Leah’s struggle to take care of her daughter and put her life back together.
Overall, The House on Malcolm Street is a very good and well written book. It is a gentle story that will remind readers that God is always with us and that he will never leave us, especially during our most difficult trials. I really enjoyed this book and I have found a new author that I will enjoy reading more of in the future.
Overall, The House on Malcolm Street is a very good and well written book. It is a gentle story that will remind readers that God is always with us and that he will never leave us, especially during our most difficult trials. I really enjoyed this book and I have found a new author that I will enjoy reading more of in the future.
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