What do readers think of The Woman at the Light by Joanna Brady? Write your own review.

This novel is set mostly in Key West and the fictional Wrecker’s Cay during the1800’s. It tells the story of Emily Dinsmere, a New Orleans debutante who after a few weeks of courtship with a Bahamian fisherman, Martin Lowry, finds herself in a desolate outpost of Key West called Wrecker’s Cay, where she and her husband are the sole inhabitants, tending the lighthouse. Martin disappears one day and his young widow Emily is left to tend the lighthouse on her own and raise their three young children.

Weaved throughout Emily’s story is fascinating historical information during a time when Key West was considered a new frontier, slavery was commonplace and the Cuban cigar and tobacco industry was burgeoning. I was captivated by the many challenges and accomplishments of this strong, resourceful woman. The supporting characters who come in and out of her life over the years are well developed. Her relationship with Andrew captivated me most of all. This book has numerous twists and turns and a fabulous read.

This was an easy read and the historical aspect added to my interest in the story. I was intrigued by some of the points of history and looked at some historical research myself. I really enjoy fiction based on historical fact since I get to enjoy the story and characters as well as learn something about a time period or locale that I did not know.

The story of The Woman at the Light is not a new story. Its the story of a strong woman who survives a life filled with loss and struggles but who is victorious in the end. Its the story of a woman who loves a man, a love that is despised by society. Its a story of a woman who, in the end, is able to overcome everything and everyone to live out her life with this man. Its not a new story and, at times, a little farfetched. The trust she puts in her children to keep her secrets is one example. But the setting is unusual. Its set in Key West and on an island with a lighthouse. I learned a great deal about Key West and its history which, to me, is the essence of historical fiction. The writing was okay and the dialogue a little over the top but all in all a good read