Freedom's Ring by Heidi Chiavaroli {Book Review}

~ Description 

Boston, 2015

Two years after nearly losing her life in the Boston Marathon bombing, Annie David is still far from “Boston strong.” Instead she remains isolated and defeated—plagued by guilt over her niece, crippled in the blast, and by an antique ring alongside a hazy hero’s face. But when she learns the identity of her rescuer, will he be the hero she’s imagined? And can the long-past history of the woman behind the ring set her free from the guilt and fears of the present?

Boston, 1770

As a woman alone in a rebellious town, Liberty Caldwell finds herself in a dangerous predicament. When a British lieutenant, Alexander Smythe, comes to her rescue and offers her employment, Liberty accepts. As months go by, Alexander not only begins to share his love of poetry with her, but protects Liberty from the advances of a lecherous captain living in the officers’ house where she works.

Mounting tensions explode in the Boston Massacre, and Liberty’s world is shattered as her brother, with whom she has just reunited, is killed in the fray. Desperate and alone, she returns home, only to be assaulted by the captain. Afraid and furious toward redcoats, Liberty leaves the officers’ home, taking with her a ring that belonged to Alexander.

Two women, separated by centuries, must learn to face their fears. And when they feel they must be strong, they learn that sometimes true strength is found in surrender.

~ My Rating 

4 stars

~ My Review 

An eloquent, intriguing tale of brokenness and healing. <3

I'm settling in to write this review over a week after reading the book—and honestly? I feel like I'm still sorting through everything that happened in those 380-something pages. So many events. So many plot-twists. It was fantastic, but a lot to keep up with. 

This was my first dual-timeline novel, and I absolutely ADORED that aspect of the book. Anaya's and Liberty's stories wove together very well to create a deeply-layered tale of pain, loss, hope, and forgiveness. The connection of the ring was perfect and so nicely done. The historical details were amazing—this author knows her Boston. 

Liberty's story was...complicated. I didn't feel like I could connect with her very well. Originally, I liked Alexander...but I never really "believed" that she loved him. Cared for him, yes, but I'm not so sure it was love. Her relationship with James was precious, though cut short. She didn't treat Hugh like he deserved. (C'mon, honey, he loves you and your child. Either let yourself love him or break it off already.) 

Anaya/Annie's story was my favorite. Dealing with post-traumatic stress nearly two years after being a victim of the Boston Marathon bombing, befriending a veteran who can relate to her struggles, carrying guilt over her family's pain and loss from the same attack...I just loved her story. (I also loved Brad. Brad is mine, y'all.) 

Annie and Brad's search for the origin of the ring that brought them together—along with their relationship in general—were some of my favorite parts. I always enjoy a good genealogical search. ;)

As far as content, there's a rape and an illegitimate child, detailed kissing, and several deaths. Characters recalling bombings and blown-apart bodies—both at the Boston Marathon bombing and in the Iraqi War—and a woman who decides she's in love with two men (hey, it's disturbing, it's going in the content paragraph xD). Overall, I'd say 14+. 

So yup. Knocking off a star because of my confusion and annoyance with Liberty's love life. Otherwise? A fabulous book. <3

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers.**