Rose in Bloom

Book excerpt: The sequel to Eight Cousins featuring Rose Campbell from the author of the timeless classic Little Women. After two years traveling the world, Rose Campbell returns to her “avalanche of aunts” at their home in Boston. Though she favors philanthropic pursuits over husband-hunting, she is beset by many admirers—some who want her for herself, some for her fortune. Meanwhile, her best friend and maid, Phebe Moore, is coming into her own as a concert singer. And when a romantic proposal gives her what she’s always wanted—an official place in Rose’s family—Phebe vows to prove her worth to those who’ve meant so much to her . . . “Everyone remembers Louisa May Alcott for Little Women and the bonds of family she portrayed in that book, but the friendship she paints in Eight Cousins and Rose in Bloom is much more compelling to me. It stretches across years, overcomes social barriers, and fulfills the needs of the two women in expected and unexpected ways. Phebe’s love story with Archie, and Rose’s with Mac, are both lovely, but it’s Rose and Phebe’s friendship that has formed their characters and turned them into the women that they are. Rose in Bloom may end with the happy couples, but I like to think of Rose and Phebe, too, walking forward into their futures step-in-step, and hand-in-hand.” —The Toast “An excellent story written by a wonderful, intelligent author who made it engaging for audiences of all ages.” —The Captive Reader