Another great historical fiction novel from Ann Gabhart! This book follows Elena Bradford, whose family's financial situation becomes known to be severe when her father dies. When Elena's mother hatches a plot, Elena, her mother and her sister head to Graham Springs where her mother hopes Elena can snag a wealthy suitor who will pull them from their dire straits. What ends up happening none of them would have ever expected.

I thoroughly enjoyed the story line of this tale and the character development that occurred through the story - not only for Elena, but also many others including her mother and sister. Elena finds herself drawn to 2 men that her mother would never approve of, and finds herself concerned when the suitor at the top of her mother's list is old enough to be her grandfather. Elena's character growth throughout the story is absolutely stellar - not only emotionally but spiritually. Though I would say this one was primarily a character-driven novel, there was plenty of plot included, primarily through the story of the young woman who showed up out of the blue surrounded by mystery and tragedy. I was equally entranced by the author's note at the end that explained that pieces of that story happened in real life as well. I always love when actual historical events that I'd not been aware of are found in the pages of a novel!

Though not all of the elements found closure in the story, the important pieces did and the ending was wholly satisfying. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read and I would easily recommend to fans of historical fiction with threads of both mystery and romance. Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

Behind all the pursuit, pressure, and polite Southern charm, this story is really about one thing: a woman learning to trust God with everything when everything’s falling apart.

Set at a resort known for its “healing waters,” the story quietly invites readers to see where true healing actually comes from.

Elena isn’t out here chasing fairytales. She’s trying to keep her family afloat without losing herself in the process. But what I appreciated most? Her strength didn’t come from sass or self-sufficiency—it came from surrender. Little by little, prayer by prayer.

“She couldn’t solve her problems tonight. Tomorrow would bring whatever it brought, and she would face it with the Lord’s help. With His love.”

That right there—that’s where the whole story turns for me. Because haven’t we all had those “Lord, I can’t fix this” nights?

I loved that this was about a woman waking up to the truth that God’s love is steady, even when everything else is shaky. That love looks different than we think. Sometimes it's not romantic. Sometimes it’s hard. Sometimes it asks us to give up the very thing we thought would save us.

And yeah… some of those moments between Elena and her mother? Whew. Like sandpaper on the heart. But it’s the rough edges that show how far God’s willing to go to shape us. And how often He uses people we don’t understand to get us there.

“She did believe the Lord loved her… Did she have any of that kind of sacrificial love for her family?”

That question doesn’t just belong to Elena. That one’s got teeth. It’ll sit with you.

This story reminded us that God doesn’t just show up in church pews and quiet times—He shows up in broken families, confusing emotions, and those decisions you make with tears in your eyes and prayers on your lips.

If you’re looking for a faith-first historical read that balances heartache, humor, and hope—this is it. And if you're like me, you’ll want to linger a bit longer after the last page, just to soak in what the Lord might still be whispering.

I received a digital ARC of this book from the author. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

Overall rating 3.5 stars.
Love traingles are not my thing I am finding out, as I was kind of thinking she would end up with the preliminary mmc, only to have the other mmc walk in and steal the show but not until the near end of the book. The middle of the story turned into a mystery where romance kind of took a backseat as the plot focused on Vanessa.
Elena was likable enough, she was a sentimental and caring person. Her sister Ivy was fun, placed as the young hopeless romantic. I didn't care for their mother, who often came across as selfish and uncaring.
The faith content was small but present.
The natural springs of Kentucky is something I wasn't aware of historically speaking, it is interesting. I always thought most of the healing waters were out west.
Thank you netgalley for my ARC, this is my honest opinion.

Set against the genteel backdrop of 19th-century Graham Springs, Kentucky, this delightful historical romance immerses readers in a world of social ambition, heartfelt longing, and unexpected turns of fate. At the heart of the story is Elena Bradford, a young woman of quiet strength and sincerity, who suddenly finds herself the reluctant hope of her financially struggling family. While her mother seeks a wealthy suitor to secure their future, Elena’s journey is less about appearances and more about discovering the true nature of love, loyalty, and purpose.

The romance unfolds with a classic love triangle, yet the author gives each suitor—charming yet calculating Kirby Frazier and the introspective, wounded Andrew Harper—depth and nuance. As Elena is pulled between expectations and desire, the story remains grounded in her moral compass and sense of compassion. The addition of a mysterious guest and a surprising tragedy introduces a layer of intrigue that keeps the pace lively and the stakes emotionally compelling. The Southern setting, complete with daily entertainments and elegant dances, lends a rich, immersive charm that enhances the reading experience.

More than just a romance, this novel explores themes of sacrifice, family duty, and the courage to follow one's heart in a world bound by social rules. Readers who enjoy clean historical fiction with strong character development and a touch of mystery will find this story both uplifting and heartfelt. It’s a tender reminder that love worth having is not always the easiest or most obvious path—and that sometimes, healing begins when we let go of what we thought we wanted.

There is much to admire in this new novel from beloved author Ann H. Gabhart. She brings the setting of Graham Springs to life, and the characters are nicely drawn and relatable. There is quite a lot going on between the romance and the mystery, as well as some action/adventure. At times this felt like too much plot craziness. However it was certainly a nice escape. Gabhart is a talented author, and I always look forward to her books.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-galley; all opinions in my review are 100% my own.

This is the second book I have read by Ms Gabhart - and now I know I need to find more!

This is a great story - based on real facts - of a family that lost their father. They realize they are close to being broke- so they go on a vacation to a restore with wealthy single men in hopes of marrying off the main character - Elena - to financially save the family.

They go to the resort - and Elena does her best to try to help her family. She also starts to understand her own choices in the past and how she could change.

The author shows the narrative of multiple characters- not just the main two.

Thank you Revelle Publishers for the ARC! #ThePursuitofElenaBradford #Revelle

Graham Springs is such an elegant and magical place where people come together for healing and romance. There was so much romance here for Elena as she has three different men in pursuit of her. The reader is left wondering whether she will choose for duty or for love. The relationship between Ivy and her sister was so special. Sisters have such a bond and it was so nice to see in this story. Princess Cinderella was the best!


Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.

Author Ann Gabhart is one of my go to authors. Her stories flow so easily and are filled with historical tidbits. At 22 Elena Bradford wants to marry for love and has yet to meet a man she would marry. After Elena’s father died leaving her family deeply in debt, her mother decides to use the last of their money to stay at Graham Springs known for healthy activities including dances almost every night. What better place to find a wealthy husband? The reality for Elena is “romance was good in stories where love could conquer all.” But here in the real world her mother wanted her to marry a wealthy man. An unexpected tragedy occurs in this idyllic setting, forcing decisions about the future. I endorse this novel filled with inspiration, hope, romance, and mystery.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and author. All opinions are my own.

The Pursuit of Elena Bradford

My Thoughts:
The cover of this book is what initially caught my attention. After I read the summary, I needed to read this one! This is my first time reading anything by Ann. I loved starting this book in a stagecoach where we meet Andrew and Kirby. I instantly gravitated toward Andrew. He was serious, sad and possible ill. I could tell Kirby had a restless spirit and was searching for his next adventure. With that being said, I was hoping Elena would choose Andrew. I was hoping for more moments between them both to really excite me! I wish we could have learned more about Vanessa. Her arrival was a mystery, but her felt death staggering and I was left feeling unresolved. So glad the General ended up with Elena's mother, and Elena could choose Andrew for love!

THE PURSUIT OF ELENA BRADFORD
Ann Gabhart
Revell (May 6, 2025)
ISBN-10: 0800746260
ISBN-13: 978-0800746261

Elena Bradford is quite content to focus on her art, bringing to life in vibrant color the beautiful flowers her father so lovingly tends in his garden. At twenty-two, she cares nothing about marriage, particularly since she’s never met anyone to make her even consider such a thing. But her father’s sudden death has left her mother and younger sister in dire financial straits that will have them losing everything unless Elena finds a wealthy husband.

Her mother’s solution is to take the three of them and what’s left of their meager finances to a resort in Graham Springs, Kentucky. There, under the pretense of wealth, they will mingle in a place where the wealthy go to heal by drinking the mineral spring water and to participate in the pleasantries of gentle exercise and evening dances. A suitable match, however, becomes nearly impossible when the men seeking Elena’s attention are totally unsuitable, some with their own schemes and pretenses. And when the death of a young and beautiful guest occurs, Elena becomes involved by putting clues together to solve the mystery which nearly leads her to her own demise.

Set in Graham Springs, Kentucky, a lavish yet restful place with all the things that bring on a feeling of nature and calm, The Pursuit of Elena Bradford has been interspersed with rich, relatable characters. True to life emotions and reactions breathe life into a mystery pulled straight from history to give this story a bit of suspense. Will Elena be able to provide what her family so desperately needs? And if so, will it be at the expense of her own happiness? A wonderfully written, no explicit content story in true Ann Gabhart style. First time readers and devoted fans alike will not be disappointed.

Reviewed by Margaret Ohmes

I’ve previously read Ann Gabhart and I chose this book because of the author, more than the description. In this regard the book met my expectations. I deeply appreciated Elena’s character growth. Though she had no desire to be married and was content with a “small” life as a spinster in the family home, she was thrown into a journey that challenged her assumptions and shook up her complacency. Elena gains a new perspective on the relationships around her and her own place in the world. Kirby and Andrew are also characters that show considerable growth in this novel and I applaud Gabhart’s skill in taking us on a journey of development.

I also appreciated that I could actually place myself in every scene. The descriptions were natural and engaging. It’s not every author who can take you inside the character’s heart and mind while also placing you clearly in the physical space around them.

On the other hand, I felt like this novel suffered a bit from an identity crisis. Midway through the novel I wasn’t sure what the driving narrative was meant to be. I assumed it was Elena and her relational choices, but then a mysterious young woman shows up and steals the show. All of a sudden the novel becomes focused on the mystery and all the other story-lines take a backseat. I understand from the postscript that the author was including real historical events, but honestly it felt like the book was trying to accomplish too much and couldn’t decide which story to tell. Both narratives were interesting and Gabhart did a fair job of trying to weave things together, but personally I think the competing narratives disrupted the flow of the book, especially as the mystery remained a mystery and left me feeling a bit dissatisfied with a loose thread that felt like it hadn’t belonged in the first place.

This book has a little bit of everything.

Romance – yes.

Adventure – yes.

Mystery – yes.

Family, values, and identity – yes.

Would I recommend the book? Yes.

Is it Gabhart’s best? I don’t think so, but it’s still good.

I received a free digital copy of this book for review. My opinions are my own.

I wasn't sure what to think as I began reading this book... This story was not exactly what I expected! There was mystery and intrigue as well as some romance! Not what I remember from previous Ann Gabhart books, but definitely good!! If you like historical fiction with some mystery and romance, I recommend this book.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance e-copy of this book! All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Just finished this excellent book. It was very entertaining and had a clean and enjoyable storyline. As Elena's widowed mother realized her financial situation was becoming very dire, she feels that if her daughter, Elena, would find herself married to a wealthy man, their problems would all be resolved. So they spend their summer in a beautiful health resort called Graham Springs where there are dances and opportunities to meet someone to marry and enjoy the healing spring water. As the story proceeds, there is mystery and intrigue is this Kentucky setting. The characters were engaging and of course, in pursuit of Elena. But is money the only reason to marry or will love win out? This was a story that I totally enjoyed and that keeps me reading books from this author! Loved it.
I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

Review coming soon! Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advance review copy. Opinions are mine.

This is a story of how one woman faces an uncertain future. There is a love triangle, but somehow it is not as tiresome as most are to read. The author does a great job of fully developing the characters. So while you may not like all of them, you do understand their motivations. There is some Christianity and religion mixed in, but it does not detract from the story.

This is an amazing book filled with suspense, intrigue, a mystery, and more! Most of the book is set in Graham Springs, a beautiful health resort. I could easily picture myself strolling through the garden and getting my portrait drawn! It reminds me of Saratoga, NY, with its healing waters.

The characters are written brilliantly! Ann Gabhart always writes characters that I become invested in. It's really hard to pick a favorite, but I'd go with Elena. She's a no-nonsense kind of woman. Despite the immense pressure from her mother to marry a rich man, she refuses to settle. Real love is what she's looking for. General Dawson is my second favorite. He's lonely and hoping to find love at Graham Springs. Honorable mention to the cat, Princess Cinderella; a true hero!

I really enjoyed the author's note! History amazes me all the time, especially the story of the woman who died at Graham Springs mysteriously.

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell through Interviews and Reviews via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I'll be honest, love triangles are not typically my cup of tea... but this story drew me in right from the beginning and while a love triangle certainly plays a big part of this story, I found that it was done well and I really didn't mind it. This story was a fantastic blend of historical elements, a hint of mystery, romance... and family relationships as well. I really loved that little bit of mystery that was added in... and was fascinated to learn that this mysterious woman and the tragedy that happens in the story were actually based on real events. Finding this out in the author's notes at the end only made me appreciate this story all that much more. It was a beautiful book that kept me intrigued from start to finish and one that fans of Christian historical romance are sure to want to check out.

**ARC received via Netgalley for consideration. All opinions are my own.

I love faith based Christian fiction, and this is a go to author, she sure didn't disappoint.
I could just see the desperation of a mother left a widow with four children and debts.
Will Elena be the answers to their family needs? We meet her mother and darling younger sister, and then we are off to Graham Springs, a place that made me think of Greenbrier WV, a resort with healing water, and plenty of eligible men, men with money?
I loved references to eastern whip-poor-will, among other birds, and beautiful roses!
This is in away a love story, there is also some tragedy, but we will wonder whom our girl will choose. I loved the surprises, that the author gives us, but to be honest it was exactly what I was hoping for.
Such a great read to get lost in, and when the last page is turned, I wanted to continue on in their lives!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

Historical fiction about a young woman who travels to a health space to find a husband to save her family from poverty. While there, she finds three possible suitors and becomes involved in a mystery. I enjoyed the story, and the author's note in the end was enlightening.

I liked the historical aspects of this book and was interested to find out that there is actually a true element that is mentioned in the acknowledgements by the author. I always love when part of fiction bounces off some real tidbit. Another element of the story I appreciated was that I could imagine that these characters actually were in the predicaments they found themselves in. The demands of family did weigh on unmarried children in those times. The bit of mystery involved kept me turning the pages.
I really enjoy Ann Gabhart's writing, and appreciated the chance to read this story early as part of her street team.