The Moonlight School by Suzanne Woods Fisher

 

Suzanne Woods Fisher is one of those authors I've come back to a few times over the years but this was my first foray into her non-Amish fiction. Stylistically, there were definitely some familiar elements, inherent to her storytelling that I was pleased to see carried over.

First, the skill of her world crafting. I often appreciate the care Fisher puts into building her story's worlds and found it more impressive in The Moonlight School.  As a historical fiction incorporating real life characters, Fisher has done her work to keep historical accurate information blended in with her vibrant Appalachian community. It was easy to picture Lucy and Jenny wandering up and down the hills of Kentucky, discovering the wonder of the outdoor services, and finding peace in the hills.

I'm also a sucker for stories that incorporate real life individuals as accurately as possible and Fisher gives us two notable ones. First was Cora. While Lucy may be the main character (and completely fictional) her second cousin Cora was an actual individual who campaigned against illiteracy through the moonlight schools she and Lucy are working to start up in the novel. Fisher definitely makes a compelling case to read more about this passionate lady. I also loved the character of Mollie McGlothin who true to the novel was the catalyst for Cora's night schools when she learned to read. These little moments of history made the novel so much more engaging and Fisher's research really shines through.

As far as the story itself goes, this really feels more coming of age for Lucy more than a typical romance when compared to similar novels. As a result I found the ending a little frustrating with how Lucy makes peace with her discoveries about Charlotte's disappearance and Lucy's own heart. It felt a little too much like leaving openings for a sequel in a story that doesn't really feel it leads up to a sequel. That said, I suspect I'm the minority on this as the story really does highlight a unique point in US history around a wonderful coming of age tale.

4 out of 5 stars

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc."