Lilac Spring — Ruth Axtell Morren

Daughter of a prominent nineteenth-century Maine shipbuilder, Cherish Winslow had a deep love for ships, the ocean -- and her father's apprentice, Silas van der Zee. Once his childhood companion in Haven's End, Cherish wished Silas could see she was no longer a girl in pigtails but a woman in love.

To Silas, Cherish was a beacon of light, illuminating his lonely life...yet he doubted a lowly apprentice could win the heart of such an elegant young lady. A stolen kiss brought a moment's hope...but he soon found himself tossed out on the street, with no job, no home, no chance of a future. In his darkest hour, Silas must find the strength to fight for his life -- and for his beloved Cherish.