The Pursuit of Elena Bradford (Revell, 2025) by Ann H. Gabhart is set in the 1840s, a time when societal expectations often stifled women’s talents and ambitions. But Elena Bradford’s mother has a plan—one that could save their family from financial ruin. After her father’s poor financial decisions left them on the brink of losing their estate, Elena’s mother takes the family on an extended vacation to Graham Springs in Harrodsburg, Kentucky. Known as both a healing retreat and a hub for high society, Graham Springs offers the perfect setting for Elena to secure a wealthy suitor and restore the family’s fortunes.
Elena, however, has little interest in fulfilling her mother’s ambitions. She prefers the quiet solace of her late father’s rose garden and the creative world of botanical sketching to the performative charm required to attract a husband. Her mother had always convinced her that she was plain—especially in comparison to her younger sister, Ivy.
Upon arriving in Graham Springs, Elena has no great expectations for romance. Yet, unexpectedly, three different suitors emerge—one of whom has been handpicked by her mother. This preferred candidate, General Dawson, is wealthy but old enough to be Elena’s grandfather. The prospect fills Elena with anxiety, making her question how far she is willing to go to fulfill her family’s expectations. Meanwhile, she finds herself drawn to two other men: Kirby Frazier, a fellow artist, and Andrew Harper, a man still nursing wounds from being left at the altar by his fiancée. Gabhart skillfully fleshes out each character, making them memorable and compelling.
The Pursuit of Elena Bradford is not without its moments of heartbreak and suspense. The arrival of an unchaperoned mystery woman, who befriends the Bradford sisters, leads to a shocking tragedy on the dance floor. Gabhart’s ability to weave twists and turns into the narrative keeps readers engaged, evoking a mix of fear, admiration, and relief as Elena navigates her path. Themes of love, loyalty, and duty resonate throughout, fitting seamlessly within the mid-nineteenth-century setting.
Gabhart’s meticulous research adds authenticity to the novel. A real-life inspiration for the story can be found in Harrodsburg, Kentucky—a grave surrounded by a white picket fence commemorating The Dancing Lady of Graham Springs. This historical detail enhances the novel’s immersive quality, transporting readers into the enchanting world of ballroom music, swirling dance partners, and the ever-present clink of mineral spring water glasses.
Ann H. Gabhart
Ann H. Gabhart, a bestselling author, has written numerous novels, including The Song of Sourwood Mountain, In the Shadow of the River, When the Meadow Blooms, Along a Storied Trail, An Appalachian Summer, River to Redemption, These Healing Hills, and Angel Sister. She and her husband live on a farm in rural Kentucky, where she enjoys exploring nature with her grandchildren and dogs. Learn more at AnnHGabhart.com.
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