A Mother’s Promise is a heart-wrenching tale based on a true court case of Buck v. Bell. It is unbelievable that such an archaic law is still in existence today. Though the names and circumstances have been changed for dramatic effect, the story of Carrie Buck resonates in the novel’s character of Ruth Ann Riley.

Unwed, pregnant and considered mentally challenged by society, Ruth Ann is sentenced to the Colony — an institution for the epileptics and feebleminded. While there, Ruth Ann gives birth to a healthy baby girl and named her Annabel. But no sooner after the birth, little Annabel is taken away and sent to be raised at a foster family. Desperate, Ruth Ann attempts everything in her power to get little Annabel back. Even if it means jeopardizing her own well being.

I won’t go into detail about the characters in this novel because that would spoil the story. However, I will say that my emotions surrounding all of the characters ran the gamut of empathy to anger. I loved some characters and hated others.

Ms. Alden’s writing style really kept me engaged from the get-go. She managed to capture the essence of that tumultuous time period in America when eugenics played a major role in the sterilization of innocent American citizens. And I was surprised to learn a lot of the history of that time.

A Mother’s Promise is a must read. If anything, this was one historical fiction novel not to be missed. It will be remembered and will not be forgotten. Five stars.

I received a paperback copy of the book from Forever (GCP). The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.