Historical romance from Moody Publishers, Her Good Name opens in Holliston, Maine, 1892. Espy Estrada is excited at the opportunity to improve her lot in life.  Having worked in the cannery since her father’s injury, Espy hadn’t been able to finish high school as she helps her mother care for her ten younger brothers and sisters, but now she has an opportunity to become a ladies maid for one of the city’s upstanding citizens. Her love interest, Warren Brentwood, is back from school and learning how to run his father’s mill. From the get-go, we see the class differences will be an issue – for everyone except Espy who loves easily and sees potential in every situation.

This book is filled with interesting secondary characters from Espy’s siblings, to Espy’s employers, Warren’s family, and their joint friends. I liked the idea of the church group of youth looking beyond themselves and getting involved in the community. I particularly liked how Espy’s personality held it all together and spearheaded their few successes.

As the plot advances, the title of the book begins to have serious play in the developing action and my heart ached for Espy as she lost her good name. But Espy isn’t one to stay down forever, and she moves from Holliston to find the better life she’s always believed possible. Still, it is only when she finds a true relationship with her Creator, that Espy finds the peace and purpose she has always dreamed of. Both characters have some wonderful spiritual growth to reach before they can find their happily-ever-after together.

This is the first Ruth Axtell book I’ve read. It may well be her debut novel.  I found the writing clean and the story easy to follow.  Because of Espy’s wonderful personality I rooted for her the entire way.  I felt the unfairness of her situation as if I had been the one maligned. I cheered when Warren started making good decisions. I recommend this story for all historical romance readers who want a memorable character – Espy Estrada.