Book Review: A Vote of Confidence by Robin Lee Hatcher

About the book:

In A Vote of Confidence, the stage is set for some intriguing insight into what it was like during 1915 to be a woman in a “man’s world.”

Guinevere Arlington is a beautiful young woman determined to remain in charge of her own life. For seven years, Gwen has carved out a full life in the bustling town of Bethlehem Springs, Idaho, where she teaches piano and writes for the local newspaper. Her passion for the town, its people, and the surrounding land prompt Gwen to run for mayor. After all, who says a woman can’t do a man’s job?

But stepping outside the boundaries of convention can get messy. A shady lawyer backs Gwen, believing he can control her once she’s in office. A wealthy newcomer throws his hat into the ring in an effort to overcome opposition to the health resort he’s building north of town. When the opponents fall in love, everything changes, forcing Gwen to face what she may have to lose in order to win.

My thoughts:

It’s been awhile since I’ve had the opportunity to read a historical novel by one of my favorite authors. A Vote of Confidence recently gave me that opportunity. Hatcher has written some great historical novels (i.e. the Coming to America series), but unfortunately, I thought that this one was a little flat.

There is no doubt that Hatcher can create very likable characters, as well as conjure up a great story. However, as much as I tried to enjoy the story, I found that it really had no originality. In fact, I struggled at times to get through the book because I knew how it would all turn out in the end.

In my opinion, some of Hatcher’s best works (besides the previously mentioned historical series) are her contemporary novels that deal with real issues (abortion, alcoholism, etc.). Most of her novels that I have read recently have just been fluff, and not what originally endeared me to this great author.

3 Stars

Southern?  No
Sass?  Yes