The Rundown
Lady Ruth Bromfield is a story of tolerance and resilience that begins in 1935 Germany. Realizing that her homeland is no longer her home, a young, unwed mother takes drastic measures to protect her daughter Ruth from the Nazis. Moments before meeting a tragic end, she saves her three-year-old by sending her to live with a minister and his wife in the England countryside via Kindertransport, the organized effort launched to transport German children to safe havens in the months preceding World War II.
Ruth’s guardians, John and Madeline, adopt her as soon as they’re able to and honor the promise made to her mother by allowing her to learn about the Jewish faith and stay connected to her heritage.
As Ruth settles into her new home; the world becomes increasingly unsettled. Her parents, kind people and progressive thinkers, truly teach Ruth by example, helping friends and strangers alike feel connected and safe during the war-torn years that follow.
Ruth is a voracious learner who excels both academically and socially. Her affinity for tolerance coupled with her curiosity and keen mind propel her into leading one of the largest construction companies in the world. Always quick to bridge differences, Ruth uses her role there to foster understanding and cooperation, even implementing a system that encourages people with different beliefs to interact with each other.
The Recommendation
Could there be a more poignant time to read a story about acceptance, understanding and cooperation than during these divisive pre-election days? Lady Ruth Bromfield is ripe with resilience and brimming with examples of triumph over tyranny, adversity, stereotypes and discrimination.
There are times when Gordon Smith’s detail-rich novel reads like a biography and others when it seems textbook-like. Its telling versus showing quality makes the story veer toward the didactic, and there are pacing issues exacerbated by repetition and cliché.
However, history lovers will find plenty to revel in, and Ruth’s journey can surely provide a lift if your faith in humanity is in need of restoration.
The Rating
3 Stars (out of 5): Pretty good. Sure, there were some issues, but it was still worth the read.
The Pros & Cons
Pros: Strong World-BuildingCons: Character Developement, Slow in Places
