Set in New York state shortly after the Civil War, this tale of a family running a lumber mill includes many tensions and allegiances which change as the family members readjust to the new life facing them.

Radford Grayson has just returned from serving in the Union Army, bringing his beloved three-year-old daughter, but carries what we would now call post-traumatic stress along with his medal. Life in 1870 is hard and physical, and the lumber mill is thriving with the demand for timber. While Radford was away his three younger brothers invested carefully in machinery and worked long hours to build the business. Now they are understandably wary of allowing him to take control of the firm.

Kyle, next oldest brother, is engaged to a charming tomboy who brings serious toil to the firm and in her livery yard. Evelyn is a marvel with horses and has no intention of giving up the livery after she marries - not that Kyle knows! To get Radford out of their hair the brothers ask him to help Evelyn as she should not be working so hard and training horses alone. Meanwhile their father William has suffered a series of strokes and is unable to contribute more than advice. Thrown together daily however, Radford and Evelyn feel a strong bond and Evelyn wonders why her affection for Kyle seems lifeless by comparison.

SHADES OF HONOUR stretches truths and loyalties, contemplates the nature of love and the horrors of war, and spans the divide between the horsepowered era and that of the machine age. Wendy Lindstrom has presented a carefully researched story, firmly grounded in place and time. Those who enjoy a finely written historical romance will relish this vibrant tale.