Pilgrims Don’t Wear Pink
by Stephanie Kate Strohm
Publication: May 8, 2012 (Paperback)
Pages: 204
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Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
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Libby Kelting had always felt herself born out of time. No wonder the historical romance-reading, Jane Austen-adaptation-watching, all-around history nerd jumped at the chance to intern at Camden Harbor, Maine’s Oldest Living History Museum. But at Camden Harbor Libby’s just plain out of place, no matter how cute she looks in a corset. Her cat-loving coworker wants her dead, the too-smart-for-his-own-good local reporter keeps pushing her buttons, her gorgeous sailor may be more shipwreck than dreamboat — plus Camden Harbor’s haunted. Over the course of one unforgettable summer, Libby learns that boys, like ghosts, aren’t always what they seem.
Libby is a unique character. She is into fashion–she loves shoes and believes in makeup–but she’s also very much into history. Let’s just say that if I needed help with history, she’s the first one I’d ask. Libby’s conversations and thoughts are peppered with references to historical movies and books, she knows how to bake and do needlework, and she’s good with children.
That being said, Libby also complains when she learns that makeup and cellphones are banned during working hours (to preserve historical accuracy), and her judgment is questionable at times. She swoons over hot guys–one in particular that quotes Shakespeare and acts like a gentlemen, overlooking signs that he may not be her ideal Prince Charming. Nevertheless, while Libby maybe be a romantic Pisces, she has one fiery spirit and takes care of her own problems!
Garret is my favorite character. He’s a down-to-earth reporter-nerd out to find the truth behind the reported ghost spotting at Camden Harbor. I love how he keeps pushing Libby’s buttons. It’s amusing how they deal with each other while ghost hunting on the Lettie Mae. It’s obvious that he has a thing for Libby, but she’s blind to his affections until it hits her in the face (almost literally).
The story ends with a cute, true realization about teenage love. While this is a light, fun read for the most part, I would not recommend this to younger readers because of the references to Harlequin romances, a small almost rape scene, and some sultry outfits that Libby is made to wear for propaganda.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher. No payment was received in return for a review. The receipt of the book had no influence on the opinions expressed in my review.
Author: Crystal
A story girl at heart, Crystal is a bibliophile who can easily spend the day immersed in a good read. She writes under the name Kristy Wang. You can follow her writing adventures on X and Instagram @_kristywang.
Amanda Ray says
The historical accuracy of the book should be great with her being so into history! Love that Garrett is a "nerd"
Crystal says
It is. I also love the nerd-y part to Garrett. Nerds are hot 😉
Bookworm1858 says
Ooh I like that Libby is into history; I majored in that and always like to read about other characters with the same interest. I should be reading this soon and will be interested to see how our impressions compare.
Crystal says
I love reading about characters with the same interest. Oftentimes, just seeing this connection will convince me to pick up a book. Let me know what you think!