This historical fiction novel tells the story of Abby Anderson, a newlywed who believes her husband, Clifford, a merchant captain, was lost at sea in 1860. As the nation approaches war, Abby becomes involved in the Underground Railroad, helping a fugitive slave family escape to Canada. When a winter storm forces Abby and the family to take shelter with an Acadian trapper, Bill Boudreaux, and two Abenaki teenagers, they form an unlikely bond. As they work together to survive the harsh winter, Abby finds herself growing closer to her new companions, leading to a difficult decision about her future and where she truly belongs.

This arc was actually a very interesting historical fiction read that takes place during the civil war. We are introduced to a young woman named Abby who lost her husband shortly after they were married. However, his body was never recovered since it was lost at sea so Abby is unsure if she actually is a widow. With the war breaking out she feels that she needs to do something to make a difference.she decides to assist in helping slaves escape to free through the underground railroad.
However, during one assignment a horrible storm breaks out and they are snowed in with a kind Acadian trapper. Bill the trapper agrees to help Abby escort the family to freedom in Canada. However, as Spribg approaches Abby must decide how she wants to move on with her life.

I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.

A wonderful, touching story of pre-Civil War Maine. A young widow working with the Underground Railroad. It is a must read.

A young widow feels compelled to help others as the Civil War begins and she finds herself in a situation others might not understand as a snow storm closes in on her and the people she’s trying to help.

This checks a lot of boxes for me—from a woman’s struggle to do right under difficult circumstances and in an uncertain times, to the Acadian landscape and struggles against the winter elements, to the concept of building new family—beyond those we were born into. The protagonist is likable character and her choices give the reader reason to cheer.

This story is a reminder that family can be formed whenever people treat each other with respect and dignity.

This is a lovely, well written piece of historical fiction. It is set during the American Civil War, in Maine, and features Abby, a young woman whose husband was lost at sea. I really liked her strength of character as she decides to help some slaves escape using the underground railway. There are a few surprises in store on the journey for Abby as she tries to discover where she is going with her life as a widow. A very good read which I would recommend to fans of historical fiction. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.