"The Bondwoman" by Marah Ellis Ryan takes readers to France at a time when indentured servitude was still very much a part of everyday society. In this book, a young woman becomes a servant to pay off her debts. However, in this unlikely circumstance, love, friendship, and growth are still able to blossom against all odds. The book aims to give readers hope that, no matter where you might find yourself, there's always a chance for things to get better.