Margaret’s Quest by Muncy Chapman

Publisher: Heartsong Presents

ISBN: 9781577485421

Binding: Mass Market

I’m giving this book away. Check this link for details.
From Heartsong Presents website:
In 1836, Savannah debutante Margaret Porter travels by schooner to the wild, unsettled Florida Territory, and learns that her fiance’ has been killed in a fierce conflict between the army and Seminole Indians. Margaret is befriended by shipboard acqaintance Mikal Lee, who helps her launch a millenery business in Apalachicola, a flourishing seaport. Margaret’s business soars. Mikal tries to open Margaret’s heart to the loving care of the God whom Margaret feels has deserted her. Will she find her fulfillment in the wealth that the dashing Harry Robards is anxious to give her, or will her quest lead to a Christ-centered life with Mikal Lee?

I really enjoyed this novel! I received it years ago back when I was a member of the Heartsong Presents book club for the first time. I just never got around to reading it until recently. The book is set in historical Florida territory, and when Margaret sets upon a journey, against her father’s wishes, to surprisingly meet her fiancé, her emotions are shattered when she discovers her man is no longer alive! While aboard the ship to Florida, Margaret meets handsome Mikal, a very strong Christian. Mikal has deep feelings for Margaret, however, he knows it’s a sin to be unequally yoked with a non-believer. Mikal also feels that he’s married to his life at sea, and he doesn’t want to burden a bride with his recurring trips upon the ocean.
When Margaret finds herself alone, no longer receiving support from her father, she matures, learning to be self-sufficient. In order to pay for her room and board, she sells her stash of bonnets to the women in the wild Florida territory. Bonnets, hats, and colorful/festive material are in demand in the barren land and soon Margaret cuts her dresses, eager to make bonnets to fill the demands of these women while she makes a living.
When tensions rise in the Florida territory, Mikal takes Margaret away to a new town where he sets her up in a millinery shop. As business partners, their love grows, however, Mikal still loves the sea, and Margaret still needs to accept the Lord in order for them to have a chance at love!
This book has been re-released in a Barbour Florida anthology. This is the first book I’ve ever read by this author and it’s a good one!
~Cecelia Dowdy~