The Light Before Day

Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher

Series: Nantucket Legacy #3

Publisher: Revell

Release Date: October 2, 2018

Reviewer: Jennifer S. Roman

The third book of the Nantucket Legacy series finds Ren and Daphne Macy setting off on the Endeavour for their own adventures on the high seas before they are too old to enjoy it.  The twins, Henry and Hitty, are young adults.  Hitty teaches at the Cent school, while Henry is at a loss what to do.  He has just returned from a voyage himself, and realizes he does not want to spend his life on the sea.  Their plans, or lack thereof, come to a halt when a solicitor, Benjamin Foulger, comes to town with news.  The twins are the sole heirs to their grandmother Lillian’s estate, but it comes with several provisions.  The first phase is the inheritance of the Grand House, along with some properties and stocks, and the second phase is the remainder of her vast wealth.  The conditions require Hitty and Henry to keep all monies on the island; they must remain in good standing with the Friends (Quakers); and they must marry someone in good standing of the faith within six years.  Together, the twins come up with solutions to benefit the island without being under their grandmother’s thumb; however, the marrying part may prove to be more of a challenge.  Hitty’s heart is set on Isaac Barnard, an eccentric inventor and widower, who doesn’t seem to be aware of her existence; Henry loves Anna Gardner, but her goals of abolitionism and integration don’t leave her much time for love.

So much happens in this book that is based on a true tidbit or fact, so readers learn about the early history of Nantucket while enjoying a good story.  The colorful characters that we have come to know from previous books in the series have their own sub-plots, which give the book depth and interest.  As usual, at the end of each chapter was an excerpt from Great Mary’s journal, as it is handed down to the next generation throughout the books.  Even more history and words of wisdom are shared throughout these journal entries.  There is no one main storyline in this book, which is a bit different from the others.  I was not as fond of this style of storytelling, but the overall message was worth the bit of disappointment.

The characters develop as the books carry on, and the historical significance keeps interest while educating.  This third (and I believe final) installment is a great wrap up of the previous generations’ influence on the most recent one, with the current generation adding its personal touch.  I thoroughly enjoyed the overall story and its message of seeing the light in everyone and in the future, even when things look bleak.  I highly recommend this book for mature teens and adult readers.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.  The views and opinions expressed within are my own.