Undercurrent of Secrets

In McDaniel’s enjoyable fourth installment to the Doors to the Past series (after Bridge of Gold), a boat changes the lives of two women nearly a century apart. In 1925 Louisville, Ky., Hattie must figure out what to do when her adopted father, the captain of steamship the Belle of Louisville, announces his plans to retire and appoints first mate Jack Marshall as his replacement. Jack wants Hattie to stay on to help search for the smugglers he’s been warned are using the ship. In the present day, jilted would-be bride Devyn Asbury takes a job as wedding coordinator on the Belle and sets her sights on winning the Timeless Wedding Venue contest. While putting together the plan, Devyn is approached by a young man who wants to learn more about a woman his great-grandfather used to speak of. The only clue he has is a torn picture of the woman aboard the Belle with the name Hattie written on the back. While investigating the ship’s records, she learns of Hattie’s past betrothal, her difficult life on the river, and the dangers she faced while trying to root out the smugglers—and gains the confidence she lost with her failed engagement. Both tenacious women overcome doubt and trying circumstances by relying on faith. Fans of Julie Klassen should take a look. (Aug.)