by Irene Hunt
First published 1983
Ellen stands at the threshold of 1900, seventeen years old and certain the new century will bring unprecedented opportunity. Her New Year's Eve dreams of progress and prosperity feel within reach as she builds a contented marriage in the opening years of the decade. But the forces reshaping America between 1900 and 1918 pull Ellen toward a different destiny. The growing movement for women's voting rights captures her attention, then her passion, and finally her complete devotion. She makes the wrenching choice to leave behind domestic happiness and throw herself into the suffrage cause. The decision transforms not only Ellen's path but ripples through every relationship she treasures. Her family, friends, and former husband all grapple with the consequences of her radical commitment. As Ellen campaigns, protests, and sacrifices for political change, she discovers that the bright new century demands a price she never anticipated paying.
Genres: romance, american-fiction, historical-fiction, 20th-century, activism
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, sacrifice
Period: 1900, 1918
292 pages · Hardcover · Encore Editions