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An Unexpected Partnership
After arriving in Minnesota Territory with her sisters to claim their late father’s hotel, Elizabeth Bell is shocked to learn her inheritance comes with a handsome co-owner. After too long working for a domineering boss, Elizabeth yearns to be in control—of the hotel and her life. But Jude Allen won’t sell his share, and Elizabeth refuses to leave.
Rescuing soiled doves and giving them hotel jobs is Jude’s way of redeeming his past. He’s counting on rough frontier life driving his new business partner away before she learns the scandalous truth and demands he stop his mission. But he may have underestimated Elizabeth...and the power of love to turn a complication into a bright new beginning.
“I could make you leave right now, if I wanted.”
Elizabeth’s face grew still as she studied him.
“I won’t do that,” Jude said a bit quieter. “I wouldn’t turn any woman out on the street, especially Clarence’s daughters.”
“Thank you for that.”
“But I have no interest in having a business partner.” Especially a woman. “So my proposition still stands. You and your sisters may stay at the Northern, and if you make it until January I will put your name on the deed—and no more talk of buying my share. It’s not for sale and it won’t be for sale. Are you amenable to my proposition?”
“I agree. My sisters and I will live and work at the Northern until January, when you will add us to the deed. At that time, we will address the terms of our partnership.” She held out her hand to shake his.
He took her hand and was surprised at the strength in her grip. She was a confident woman, he’d give her that.
The only thing that worried him was keeping his rescue work hidden. He wasn’t ashamed of his work, but most people didn’t understand why he did what he did. If she learned the truth, he’d have to explain to her about his past, and that was something that he was ashamed of.
The Little Falls War was an important moment in the history of my hometown, yet few people are familiar with the story. Since this is a work of fiction, some of the information was condensed or combined, and some of the people involved are a work of my imagination, but many of the people and events I wrote about are true. For more about the real history behind this story (and the others in the Little Falls Legacy miniseries), please visit my website at www.gabriellemeyer.com.
As always, thank you for spending time with me in Little Falls. It is my prayer that this story has entertained, educated and inspired you to dig deeper into the history of your own hometown.
In His name,
Gabrielle Meyer
GABRIELLE MEYER lives in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River with her husband and four young children. As an employee of the Minnesota Historical Society, she fell in love with the rich history of her state and enjoys writing fictional stories inspired by real people and events. Gabrielle can be found at www.gabriellemeyer.com, where she writes about her passion for history, Minnesota and her faith.
Inherited: Unexpected Family
Gabrielle Meyer
And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand.”
—Matthew 12:25
To my dear writer friends, Lindsay Harrel, Alena Tauriainen and Melissa Tagg. Thank you for the countless hours of brainstorming, critiquing and encouragement. I can’t imagine walking this journey without you.
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