Liza Jane knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that God had sent her to teach in a town.  She was now traveling to the town called Little Hickman Creek. But the closer she got to town while in the rickety, bumpy wagon, the more she began to doubt God. According to her aunt and uncle she should have taken more time to think it over, but it was too late for that now. 

Benjamin Broughton was angry at life. He knew that God had a plan, but he certainly didn’t know that it would involve leaving him alone with two small children to care after. Fighting against his heart, Ben determines not to get himself mixed up emotionally with another woman. Fortunately for him, God’s thoughts and ways weren’t even close to his. 

Knowing that her contract specifically stated that she was not to have the companionship of a gentleman, Liza determines in her heart while traveling that she will adhere to the contract and guidelines and become the best teacher that Little Hickman Creek has ever had. But while looking at the deplorable property that she was to reside in, she was surprised by the handsome and witty property owner. When both Liza and Ben feel the tension of their first meeting, they both resolve within themselves that anything other than neighbors would be off limits. But when Liza meets Ben’s children and Ben tries “Marriage made in Heaven” agency, both plans begin to fall to the wayside. 

LOVING LIZA JANE by Sharlene MacLaren was the ultimate in true romantic historical fiction! The emotional rollercoaster that Mrs. MacLaren puts you on will drive you wild with hoping, praying, laughing and rolling your eyes! This book will capture your heart from beginning to end and leave you falling in love with each of the characters created in the little town of Hickman creek. This is not a book that you can easily put down, I know, I read it in two days! Look out for the next book in the series called, “Sarah, My Beloved". 

Reviewed by Maisha Walker for the Road to Romance

April 2, 2008