Members visit Sandra Lou Taylor at Reliant Bookstore in El Dorado, Kansas, for the launch of her debut novel, More than an Attractive Face.
Member Carmaine Ternes shared this review of More than an Attractive Face, by member Sandee Taylor.
More than an Attractive Face
by Sandra Lou Taylor
A refined Albany, NY, young lady refused an arranged marriage years after the death of her parents and sister in a tragic drowning accident. Elizabeth Spaulding’s grandfather controlled her finances and possibly her future. Although her uncle and aunt became her guardians, there was little affection for Elizabeth. Her beauty, privileged life, and the family’s status provided and protected her to a degree.
To prevent a betrothal, Elizabeth accepted an invitation from family employee, Alister Murphy, to travel west. A sale of furniture was arranged; staff was let go; her pug Dolly, books, and a few possessions, and memories were Elizabeth’s comfort despite the primitive wagon’s bench seat. Mr. Murphy and his daughter Joan lead the team of two Morgans west to Indianapolis, a frontier town in 1837. The extended and arduous journey provided Elizabeth quiet contemplation and scenic views over the rugged terrain. This bouncing and crude conveyance presented an escape from a courtship Elizabeth avoided.
Alistair Murphy gained employment immediately upon arriving in Indianapolis. Joan planned to meet her fiancé Sam; they were happily wed and celebrated with captivating rhythms from the local musicians playing spoons and other instruments. A simple life was typically good for hopeful hard workers.
Moorestown, IN, is the small country town where Mr. Simon Talbot searched for a school teacher. Since Elizabeth was trained in music and possessed other academic talents, she accepted the opportunity to educate children. Her sincerity and willingness to nurture others demonstrated a caring strength that guided her through tremendous obstacles and emotional turmoil. As a newcomer, Elizabeth was determined to focus on her intelligence rather than her appearance, which gained her respect.
Mildred Hadley, the matriarch of the family, organized meal preparation, scheduled gardening and housekeeping while raising a family of five resourceful and responsible children. Henry Hadley was a farmer, rancher, and banker. The Hadleys owned the mercantile, and their eldest son Daniel operated as the store manager. Elizabeth roomed with their daughter Melissa in a loft above the store, where they assisted, and they both taught in the two room schoolhouse.
Faith and her mother’s treasured cameo broach pinned near her throat consoled and gave Elizabeth strength during the critical conversations with the Talbots, who controlled the community. Working at the store for room and board, preparing lessons, teaching, and learning about this western frontier opened Elizabeth’s eyes. Observing children’s behaviors and their parents’ interactions at church and community functions proved insightful.
Elizabeth remained resilient, balanced, and true to her convictions. She was determined to not fall to flattery or requests from widowers or men with different expectations or desires. Focusing on her students, Elizabeth delighted them with her patience, persistence, and playfulness. She encouraged creativity while giving purpose to their needs and talents. A music program she orchestrated even impressed the demanding Talbots.
Similes, metaphors, personification, imagery, and humor engage the reader. Elements of foreshadowing and details of historical accuracy keep readers turning the page. If you are curious how a pet can influence a classroom, a community member can dominate, and a young lady of privilege connect, read More than an Attractive Face.
Respectfully submitted,
Carmaine Ternes
Librarian, Author, Editor, Presenter
April 2025
by Sandra Lou Taylor
A refined Albany, NY, young lady refused an arranged marriage years after the death of her parents and sister in a tragic drowning accident. Elizabeth Spaulding’s grandfather controlled her finances and possibly her future. Although her uncle and aunt became her guardians, there was little affection for Elizabeth. Her beauty, privileged life, and the family’s status provided and protected her to a degree.
To prevent a betrothal, Elizabeth accepted an invitation from family employee, Alister Murphy, to travel west. A sale of furniture was arranged; staff was let go; her pug Dolly, books, and a few possessions, and memories were Elizabeth’s comfort despite the primitive wagon’s bench seat. Mr. Murphy and his daughter Joan lead the team of two Morgans west to Indianapolis, a frontier town in 1837. The extended and arduous journey provided Elizabeth quiet contemplation and scenic views over the rugged terrain. This bouncing and crude conveyance presented an escape from a courtship Elizabeth avoided.
Alistair Murphy gained employment immediately upon arriving in Indianapolis. Joan planned to meet her fiancé Sam; they were happily wed and celebrated with captivating rhythms from the local musicians playing spoons and other instruments. A simple life was typically good for hopeful hard workers.
Moorestown, IN, is the small country town where Mr. Simon Talbot searched for a school teacher. Since Elizabeth was trained in music and possessed other academic talents, she accepted the opportunity to educate children. Her sincerity and willingness to nurture others demonstrated a caring strength that guided her through tremendous obstacles and emotional turmoil. As a newcomer, Elizabeth was determined to focus on her intelligence rather than her appearance, which gained her respect.
Mildred Hadley, the matriarch of the family, organized meal preparation, scheduled gardening and housekeeping while raising a family of five resourceful and responsible children. Henry Hadley was a farmer, rancher, and banker. The Hadleys owned the mercantile, and their eldest son Daniel operated as the store manager. Elizabeth roomed with their daughter Melissa in a loft above the store, where they assisted, and they both taught in the two room schoolhouse.
Faith and her mother’s treasured cameo broach pinned near her throat consoled and gave Elizabeth strength during the critical conversations with the Talbots, who controlled the community. Working at the store for room and board, preparing lessons, teaching, and learning about this western frontier opened Elizabeth’s eyes. Observing children’s behaviors and their parents’ interactions at church and community functions proved insightful.
Elizabeth remained resilient, balanced, and true to her convictions. She was determined to not fall to flattery or requests from widowers or men with different expectations or desires. Focusing on her students, Elizabeth delighted them with her patience, persistence, and playfulness. She encouraged creativity while giving purpose to their needs and talents. A music program she orchestrated even impressed the demanding Talbots.
Similes, metaphors, personification, imagery, and humor engage the reader. Elements of foreshadowing and details of historical accuracy keep readers turning the page. If you are curious how a pet can influence a classroom, a community member can dominate, and a young lady of privilege connect, read More than an Attractive Face.
Respectfully submitted,
Carmaine Ternes
Librarian, Author, Editor, Presenter
April 2025
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