The Pursuit of Elena Bradford

Author: Ann H. Gabhart
Genre: Historical Romance
Pages: 352
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Publisher: Revell

Nothing would please her family more than her securing an admirable match, but true love and loyalty are harder to come by than she imagined.

At twenty-two, Elena Bradford has never met a man who made her consider marriage. But when her father dies and leaves the family deeply in debt, Elena becomes their only hope. Her mother uses their last funds to take Elena and her younger sister to Graham Springs, Kentucky, where people find healing by drinking the mineral spring water and healthy recreation through the many daily activities--including dances almost every evening.

As her mother schemes to find Elena a wealthy husband, Elena finds herself drawn to two men her mother would never consider. Charming artist Kirby Frazier spends his days drawing and painting the guests, but his real mission is to find a wealthy bride to finance his dream to go west. Melancholy Andrew Harper has come to Graham Springs in need of healing after a broken heart.

When a beautiful young lady shows up at the Springs with no chaperone and a story that seems suspicious, nearly everyone is charmed and intrigued. But when an unexpected tragedy occurs, Elena, Kirby, and Andrew will all be faced with decisions of life, love, and loyalty.

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Reviewer: Diana Varela

I was immediately drawn to this book from the first chapter. I enjoyed the different characters. And I certainly enjoyed the multiple point of views that Ann H. Gabhart gave us. I like when a character stays true to who they are and will not change for anyone. Elena is one of those characters. 

Although there were many side characters, each played a different role in progressing the story. I was honestly quite unsure who the main male lead was going to be. However, I had already had my sights on a certain man from the very beginning. Ann Gabhart did not disappoint me. She has a unique writing style and storytelling manner that instantly captured my attention. I could picture the place where the book was taking place. Though this is my first book by her, I will certainly read more by her. 

I like the message in this book, which is to trust in God and know He will see you through it. It is a hopeful message. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through Interviews & Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own. 

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Reviewer: Conny Withay

“Let me fall in love with the man of my choice with no thought of my mother. Of my sister and brothers,” Elena prays in Ann H. Gabhart’s novel, The Pursuit of Elena Bradford.

This three-hundred-and-fifty-two-page paperback targets those interested in a historical romance set in Graham Springs, Kentucky. With no profanity, topics of fighting, physical abuse, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending includes an excerpt from another book by the writer, acknowledgments, the author’s biography, and advertisements.

In this story, based in 1842, twenty-two-year-old Elena is unmarried and prefers drawing flowers over love. When her father dies and leaves the family in debt, her mother insists the three women in the family go to Graham Springs so Elena can find a rich husband. There, Elena feels she is pursed by three men: an older-but-lonely general, a shyster artist wanting to head west, and a broken-hearted man scorned by his almost-to-be bride. As Elena comes out of her spinster shell, she must make a decision that is based on love, not money.

This is a quick, engaging read as it follows the women’s hopes, dreams, and passions. Since I am an artist, I enjoyed reading about the art aspect and the charm of the flowering garden. I appreciate the book promoted relying on God instead of oneself.

Those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ may not like the references to God, praying to Him, and His Word. Others may not like a story about several men fawning over women, but it mimics the times. I struggled with the comment about praying for a dead person.

Being a Christian read with God mentioned, the plan of eternal salvation did not include asking for the forgiveness of sin. I wish all pronouns of God were capitalized for reverence. Adding discussion questions might be helpful for book clubs.

If you like a tender story about how a young woman searches for love instead of money, this one paints an emotional portrait of pursuing what one really needs over wants.

Thanks to Revell and Interviews & Reviews for this complimentary book. I am under no obligation to give a positive review.

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Reviewer: Jeanette Durkin

This is an amazing book filled with suspense, intrigue, a mystery, and more! Most of the book is set in Graham Springs, a beautiful health resort. I could easily picture myself strolling through the garden and getting my portrait drawn! It reminds me of Saratoga, NY, with its healing waters.

The characters are written brilliantly! Ann Gabhart always writes characters I become invested in. It’s really hard to pick a favorite, but I’d go with Elena. She’s a no-nonsense kind of woman. Despite the immense pressure from her mother to marry a rich man, she refuses to settle. Real love is what she’s looking for. 

General Dawson is my second favorite. He’s lonely and hoping to find love at Graham Springs. Honorable mention to the cat, Princess Cinderella—a true hero!

I really enjoyed the author’s note! History amazes me all the time, especially the story of the woman who died at Graham Springs mysteriously.

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Revell through Interviews & Reviews via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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