In 1886, near the hot mineral springs in the Appalachian highlands of North Carolina, the fifth generation of the Chappell family honors the traditions and heritage handed down over the years by their ancestors. Orphaned at the ageof seven, Dulcie Chappell was raised by her grandparents to believe the only thing more important than family and the land was the Lord. Being caretakers of the land, raising their sheep, and producing fine woolen goods are part of Dulcie’s birthright. Above all else, she is dedicated to taking care of her grandparents. James and Virginia Chappell grieve over their granddaughter’s resentment toward God, but they persist in praying she will soften her heart. They’ve been as faithful as the mountains that never move to teach her about her heritage, but James wonders if inheriting a piece of land is merely inheriting a lot of hard work. Dulcie can’t do it alone after they are gone, and she doesn’t show any interest in courting.
Gavin DeWitt was taught making money is what equates to success, so achieving the goals set for him by his ruthless uncle is his focus. The slow pace in the sleepy, backwoods community of Hot Springs, North Carolina is vastly different from the life he has led in Philadelphia. Uncle Arnold claims these mountain people are ignorant and backward, but when Gavin encounters the Chappells, he is taken aback by the things they value. Distracted by the quiet, simple lives they lead, Gavin explores the possibility of pursuing choices beyond his uncle’s demands.
When the Chappells’ land and legacy are threatened by the predatory tactics of a land speculator, Dulcie vows to maintain possession of their property. Confronted by adversity, they tenaciously cling to their ageless faith in the God who has promised to never leave them alone. Will their passion for the Lord, family, and land be enough? Or will an outsider beguile his way into the community under the guise of benevolence and defraud them of their heritage?
Editorial Review: Connie Stevens’ impeccable research, penchant for developing real characters, and ability to paint a setting with vivid clarity all shine in this historical novel. I love a story that brings out emotion, and this one brought tears, laughter, frustration, and–ultimately–joy. I give Breath of Water my highest recommendation.
–Kim Vogel Sawyer, bestselling author of A Silken Thread
