At a glance
Christian historical romance
Carved in Stone
Book 1 of the The Blackstone Legacy series
352 pages · First published 2021
In 1900 New York, botanist Gwen Kellerman enjoys a quiet life at Blackstone College, far removed from the scandals that have haunted her wealthy family for decades. Patrick O'Neill, a hardworking lawyer devoted to helping impoverished Irish immigrants, reluctantly takes a case that threatens to expose the Blackstone dynasty's darkest secret: the kidnapping and presumed death of Gwen's young brother. Sent to persuade Patrick to abandon the case, Gwen soon discovers that the determined lawyer is far more principled—and appealing—than she expected. As new evidence transforms an old family tragedy into a dangerous investigation, Gwen and Patrick must confront powerful interests, their conflicting loyalties, and the growing attraction between them. Rich in Gilded Age history, family intrigue, and heartfelt romance, this Christian historical novel is ideal for readers who enjoy determined heroines, class-crossing love stories, buried secrets, and mysteries with emotional stakes.
Scholar’s Juniper Tea + Irish Coffee
Choose your bookseller
Find the Book
Print retailers offer a search when an exact edition is unavailable. Kindle links open a specific edition. Audiobook links may open an edition or a search.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Book Bartender earns from qualifying purchases. Bookshop.org links also earn us a commission on qualifying purchases. Your price is not affected. Read the full affiliate disclosure.
No surprises at chapter twelve
Content notes
Child kidnapping and presumed murder; Gun violence, physical assault, stabbing, injuries, and some blood; Violence affecting a pregnant woman; References to stillbirth, childhood abuse, and death; Marital infidelity, a child born outside marriage, prostitution references, passionate kissing, and brief sexual touching; Class discrimination and prejudice against Irish immigrants; Painful historical medical procedures; Social drinking, tobacco use, and occasional mild language **Editor's Note:** This Christian historical romance includes several passionate kisses, flirtatious physical contact, and a brief, minimally described groping incident involving a married couple. References to marital infidelity, prostitution, and a child born outside marriage are also present. No explicit sexual scenes have been identified in the available content reviews.
Alcohol-Free Pour
Scholar’s Juniper Tea
Fragrant juniper and honey celebrate Gwen Kellerman's love of botany and her quiet academic life at Blackstone College, where carefully cultivated knowledge proves more valuable than the fortune attached to her name.
What you'll need
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.How to mix it
- Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Serve hot.
- Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
- Glassware: Mug.
We earn a commission from qualifying purchases through these Amazon links, at no extra cost to you.
Mug ↗Cocktail Pour · 21+
Irish Coffee
For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.
Rich coffee and Irish whiskey offer a warming tribute to Patrick O'Neill's Irish heritage and his determination to stand up for the overlooked, even when doing so brings him into conflict with New York's wealthiest family.
What you'll need
- 6 oz hot brewed coffee ↗
- 1.5 oz Irish whiskey
- 2 tsp brown sugar, adjusted to taste ↗
- 1 oz lightly whipped heavy cream ↗
How to mix it
- Warm a heatproof glass with hot water, then empty it. Add coffee and sugar; stir until dissolved. Stir in whiskey. Gently float lightly whipped cream over the back of a spoon onto the coffee.
- Glassware: Heatproof Irish coffee glass or mug.
We earn a commission from qualifying purchases through these Amazon links, at no extra cost to you.
Irish coffee glass ↗Mug ↗Set up the bar cart
Shop the Barware
Find the glasses and tools for your next pour.