Stepping Heavenward was written by Elizabeth Prentiss. Originally published in 1880, my version was published by Barbour Publishing in 1998.
The story takes place in the mid-nineteenth century, beginning in 1837. It is a diary, written by the main character, Katherine (or Katy) Mortimer. She is joined by a retinue of other characters, including her parents and brother, her friend, Amelia, and her pastor, Dr. Cabot. Later on in the book, Katy's aunt is introduced, as well as Dr. Elliot, Dr. Cabot's nephew.
Katy struggles fiercely with her strong temper, as well as her lack of obedience and love for God. She has been brought up in a Christian home, but questions whether she is actually a Christian. With help from Dr. Cabot, Katy works through her doubts. After entering into a hasty engagement, Katy discovers her husband-to-be isn't all she believes he is, and breaks the engagement. Katy's mother sends her to stay with her aunt in the city for a few months. While there, Katy meets Dr. Elliot, who is the family's physician. Dr. Elliot soon proposes marriage. Katy refuses, but returns home restless. When she and her mother return to the city, she avoids being alone with Dr. Elliot. But is Katy really as opposed to Dr. Elliot as she things? Do they marry? And what happens in the rest of the story? Does Katy conquer her hasty temper with God's help?
This book is one of my all time favorites. It is a fun read, but also makes you think. Some of the stuff that is said has helped me in my own Christian walk. I would highly recommend this book to anyone. It is an amazing book!
A stone has more feeling than I. I don't love to pray. I am sick and tired of this dreadful struggle after holiness; good books are all alike, flat and meaningless. But I must have something to absorb and carry me away... (Page 95)
Well, I hope you enjoyed that! It's not the best I've written, but for writing in less than a hour this afternoon, it's decent. Thank you for reading, and I hope to see you next week!!