Book Review: It Happened at the Fair

I'm glad I discovered another author who writes fantastic Christian fiction where the story and historical elements supersede the emphasized message. It Happened at the Fair sets the scene of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair so well. From descriptions of the buildings to historical details about the philosophy of lip-reading, this book is packed with substance. Plus, it delivers a satisfying love story. You could tell the author immersed herself in research to present this tale with historical accuracy (and an outstanding author's note at the end distinguishes the fictionalized from the factual).

Cullen McNamara never expected to travel to the World's Fair. His father risks all to present him with an opportunity to display and sell his automatic sprinkler invention. But Cullen fights hearing loss and struggles with the noise in the exhibition hall. His accidental introduction to Della Wentworth leads him to hire her as a lip-reading tutor. As his affection for Della blossoms, he faces several quandaries: what to do about the girl back home, how to earn enough money to save his farm when he can barely communicate with customers, and how to convince others that his system works.

Deeanne Gist brings her research to life for the reader. Her characters face internal and external obstacles with realistic responses. They interact with the fascinating historical time and setting. I look forward to exploring further Gist novels. Thankfully, my library holds another World's Fair novel written by this capable writer.