Beyond Ivy Walls By Rachel Fordham

In a story reminiscent of Beauty and the Beast, The Last Taylor by debut author [Author Name] is a poignant historical romance set in 1903 Iowa. Otis Taylor, a reclusive man scarred both physically and emotionally, has returned to Monticello under the guise of pursuing his musical talents. The reality is far more somber: Otis was exiled by his father due to his appearance and has returned to settle his family's affairs and confront his past. Unbeknownst to many, Otis's exile may have left behind a missing piece of his family—a toddler niece whom he is determined to find.

Sadie West, a twenty-three-year-old factory worker at the Hoag feather duster factory, leads a life of quiet desperation. After her college beau left her with no promise of a future, Sadie takes on multiple jobs to support her struggling family. Her quest for a better life leads her to take refuge in an abandoned building, where her path unexpectedly crosses with Otis's.

As Sadie and Otis begin to form a bond, she discovers the man beneath the scars and learns of his quest to find his niece. Their growing friendship soon blossoms into something deeper, as Sadie’s kindness and determination begin to heal Otis’s wounded heart. Together, they navigate the challenges of locating the missing child and uncover the transformative power of love and acceptance.

The Last Taylor beautifully explores themes of healing, redemption, and the power of love to overcome even the deepest scars, proving that true beauty lies in the heart.