“Ann H. Gabhart takes us on a remarkable journey into the lives of the Shakers and their community. With a compelling style, she weaves a story of love, compassion, and a young woman’s determination to find God’s truth. From cover to cover, The Blessed captivates and challenges --- an absolutely wonderful read.”
- Judith Miller, author A Bond Never Broken

In a life not her own, one woman longs for the freedom of true love.

It is 1844 and Lacey Bishop’s life is a tangled mess. Estranged from her own family and married to a man she can never love, Lacey’s only comfort is being mother to a little girl who was left on the doorstop. When her husband decides to move the family to a Shaker village, Lacey is not prepared for the new life that awaits her.

In the midst of her deep loneliness, Lacey finds herself drawn to a young Shaker man. But of course any notion of love between them is only a forbidden dream. Not only is she already married, but the Shakers believes marriage is a sin.

Will Lacey ever find true happiness in this strange place?