In the early 1900s, Lauraine Snelling's "Raising the Bar" presents the story of Miriam Hastings, a young woman eager to pursue a career as a lawyer in a time when women's opportunities were limited. The novel revolves around Miriam's journey as she confronts various obstacles and societal expectations while following her dreams.

Throughout the book, Miriam's determination and resilience shine brightly as she challenges the prejudices and doubts of those around her. Snelling adeptly portrays the difficulties Miriam faces, shedding light on the gender dynamics and restrictions of the era. Readers find themselves wholeheartedly supporting Miriam as she strives to overcome these hindrances and prove herself in a profession dominated by men.

In addition to Miriam's personal journey, Snelling intricately weaves a captivating love story into the narrative. The relationship between Miriam and her childhood friend, Jed, defies societal norms and explores themes of loyalty and sacrifice. Their bond adds depth and emotion to the story, captivating readers and stirring their investment in the outcome.

Available on Audible

Get as a free audio book
A gripping tale of ambition, love, and sacrifice.

Snelling's writing style is compelling and descriptive, transporting readers back in time through vivid settings and realistic characterizations. The historical accuracy of the novel further enhances the reading experience, providing an immersive glimpse into early 20th-century America. The author's attention to detail and thorough research are evident, making "Raising the Bar" both informative and enjoyable.

In conclusion, "Raising the Bar" is an enthralling novel that combines ambition, love, and societal expectations. Lauraine Snelling's compelling storytelling and well-developed characters create a rich and satisfying reading experience. Whether you find joy in historical fiction, women's empowerment stories, or heartfelt romances, this book promises to captivate and delight.

What are readers saying?

The book "Raising the Bar" by Lauraine Snelling has elicited a wide range of reactions from readers. With an average rating of 3.81 out of 5 stars, it is evident that opinions on the book differ.

Some readers have praised Snelling's writing style and found the story to be captivating. They appreciated the themes of perseverance, family, and love that were meticulously woven throughout the book. These readers found the characters relatable and admired the sense of community depicted in the story. The protagonist's journey resonated with them, and they drew inspiration from her determination to overcome obstacles and achieve her dreams.

On the other hand, there were some disappointed readers who had issues with the book. They found the plot to be too slow-paced and felt that the characters lacked depth. These readers also claimed that the story was predictable and formulaic, lacking originality. As a result, they struggled to form a connection with the characters, leading to a sense of detachment from the overall narrative.

Another critique regarding the book was that the writing was overly descriptive, hindering the flow of the story. Some readers felt that Snelling could have used more concise language to portray scenes and emotions. However, there were others who appreciated the vivid descriptions, as they helped them visualize the settings and become more immersed in the story.

Furthermore, some readers found the book to be melodramatic, placing too much emphasis on certain dramatic events. This, in turn, made the story feel contrived for these readers. Conversely, there were others who enjoyed the heightened drama, finding it compelling and engaging.

RaisingTheBar BookLovers InspiringReads