I am one of those people that can stare at an object and my first thought is an overwhelming curiosity about what this object has seen in its lifespanI am one of those people that can stare at an object and my first thought is an overwhelming curiosity about what this object has seen in its lifespan. This story was written for people like me.
I will admit the first little bit I wondered where this story was going but after the necklace comes into play it made it downright impossible for me to put this novel down.
I was not expecting this novel to tackle some of the issues it did but I appreciated it so very much. The racial issues are some that I have dealt with first hand as I also live in Texas and am in a biracial marriage. I can’t imagine not being able to be with him and am so thankful that it’s more socially acceptable in our era, even if not everyone agrees.
The cultural references were a nice touch, especially the movie references and songs. I grew up around the same time, so the references brought back some great memories and I appreciated the quite extensive song list, discussion questions, bonus recipe, and Q&A with the author at the end. It was a very nice touch.
The mystery and search for the truth was an amazing journey to witness and while there were a few things I would’ve liked to have seen tweaked the overall story is just too intriguing to ignore. Highly recommend!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
This is the first book I’ve read by Marie Benedict, and she has made an instant fan out of me! I am a sucker for a tantalizing murder mystery, and thiThis is the first book I’ve read by Marie Benedict, and she has made an instant fan out of me! I am a sucker for a tantalizing murder mystery, and this is that with a twist as five mystery writers take on a real murder case.
This was such a refreshing take! I was enchanted and feel like it was genius for famed mystery writers to use their skills to help save a woman who was wronged in the worst way.
It did have some moments that did drag but then it would pick right back up and pull me right back in. I truly enjoyed this novel so much and feel like it really helped kick off my fall reading in the best way possible.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the publisher through NetGalley. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
This is how a historical fiction is done! When I first heard about this novel, I knew that it was going to shoot to the top of my TBR list and it did This is how a historical fiction is done! When I first heard about this novel, I knew that it was going to shoot to the top of my TBR list and it did not disappoint and was well worth the wait.
The line between fact and fiction is blurred with such precision that it felt like I was actually hearing Nancy Love’s voice. Nancy is someone that I immediately felt a kinship with. She clearly had a good head on her shoulders, was passionate and driven, and loved with her whole heart.
This novel covers a lot of ground, but it feels so fluid that you hardly notice that you’re barreling through one experience after the other at Mach speed. There wasn’t one scene in particular that stood out to me, but the culmination of what Nancy fought for with her husband Bob being her anchor and support through it all was really amazing to me. I wish there were more partners out there that would show that kind of support.
I learned quite a bit about aviation as a whole which was not surprising since this author is a master at weaving fact and fiction seamlessly. WWII is a time of such great loss, and this is sadly mirrored in the aviation pioneers as well. I cannot imagine the immense grief that Nancy must’ve experienced with each loss she endured and all of the death from that time will never not touch my heart.
It is clear that Nancy was a woman of her word with true grit and integrity. This is such a powerful and needed text and I am beyond grateful to Heather Moore for all of her hard work and dedication it took to bring this novel to fruition. I am so thankful for all of those women that were pioneers before me, and I hope that we all never take their sacrifices for granted.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
I love a good Regency mystery, and this one was perfection! The characters are likable, the mystery and suspense having the perfect amount of tension,I love a good Regency mystery, and this one was perfection! The characters are likable, the mystery and suspense having the perfect amount of tension, and the overall storyline having the perfect pace. This was a literary escape that I couldn’t wait to get back to and I’m sad to see it end.
There is sleuthing angle that I wasn’t expecting, and it was a pleasant surprise, like you’re getting two mysteries that are rolled into one. Verity has an essence of goodness and light about her that you can’t help but be charmed by and her banter with Mr. Denning is quite endearing.
Learning to trust your instincts as well as your heart combined with lovable characters and a mystery to solve, this was such a charming read that I was truly sad to see end.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
I did not expect this novel to touch me as much as it did. It has such an incredibly power story to tell and is something I think everyone should readI did not expect this novel to touch me as much as it did. It has such an incredibly power story to tell and is something I think everyone should read.
There is nothing inherently exceptional about this novel yet at the same time there is this allure, almost like you’re being seen, drawing you deeper into the narrative. These characters are flawed and real, both struggling with the same issues while also different. One seems to be on top of the pecking order and the other on the bottom. Both are on a spiritual journey and doing what they must to survive in life while also doing some heavy self-reflection and growing and changing through the lens of faith.
There are quite a few quandaries that I have wrestled with in my own spiritual walk, which was quite refreshing to see depicted. There were moments that pierced my heart so deep that tears instantly sprang to my eyes and ran down my face. I knew in that moment that my soul needed to hear these words. There is some heavy subject matter tackled that I could see being triggering for some, but it is told with the upmost respect and true to life. I felt myself tethered to this novel so much because I could see so much of myself in its reflection, from having a special needs child to drug use in my own family.
So much heart and emotion were clearly poured onto these pages, and I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to read this fantastic novel. I am completely blown away.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through LibraryThing Early Reviewers. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Three love stories all connected by one special dress. I knew from the premise that this was going to be a special read, and it far exceeded my expectThree love stories all connected by one special dress. I knew from the premise that this was going to be a special read, and it far exceeded my expectations.
The anthology starts with A Heart in Disguise by Rachel Scott McDaniel. A story set during World War I, this is a sweet, second chance romance for two individuals that are so perfect for one another it’s insane. I love how this author is a master at connecting her readers to her characters and paints such a beautiful picture of how the dress came to be.
I also love how much of this novella was based on true people and events. It really helps history come alive and I always appreciate getting to know another aspect of American history that I didn’t previously know before.
The second story is A Letter to Eli by Allison Pittman. This novella is set during World War II, and I could not put this book down! The story really resonated with me and was filled with many different emotions. I went from giggling to tears glistening in my eyes as I read about Bette and Alice, two friends that reminded me of myself and my sister in their closeness. It’s this love that gets them though the good times and bad and while there is a romantic storyline as well the tale of friendship captured my heart completely and tethered me to this story like no other.
A Daffodil in the Dress is the final story in the anthology set during the war in Vietnam and written by Susie Finkbeiner, an author that is new to me. While I had enjoyed the dress’s journey up to this point how Kate ended up with the dress was the best!
I adored Ike and Kate and their story, but Eloise was the cutest little scene stealer! This novella was the quickest read for me, as I stayed up until all hours of the night reading it. There is just something magnetic about it. All of the characters are great, even if they are kept more on surface level, and you can’t help but root for the widow, the cherub, and the nerd.
“It was something special, being surprised by a book.” I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed this novel. I read into the wee hours of the morning craving to see where the wedding dress would end up and it was worth it. Each story highlights flawed characters in tumultuous times in our history and paint a beautiful tapestry of love all connected by one special dress. Each story is stunning not only in its stellar writing but in the heart of each tale. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to read it.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
I’ve been craving a good suspense and Ambush in the Mountains fit the bill perfectly. The edge-of-your-seat nonstop action is positively nail-biting aI’ve been craving a good suspense and Ambush in the Mountains fit the bill perfectly. The edge-of-your-seat nonstop action is positively nail-biting as we follow Summer run from a horribly bad man with the help of Axel and his canine companion Camo doing everything they can to protect her from the threat.
Let me tell you, this is how a clean suspense is done! Wow! Every time I picked it up, I was right back in the action and felt like I read this novel in mere minutes with how absorbing it is. The characters are as real as the threats that constantly follow them, and seeing the satisfying completion go full circle was truly heartwarming.
Due to the heavy subject matter this novel was a tougher read as there were moments that were a tad triggering for me. I have never been a victim of trafficking, but I am a victim of abuse and that feeling of hopelessness in a dire situation took me back. In saying that, Summer was able to escape with help from the Lord and others, and so was I.
While this whole novel is a living nightmare there is also a fight to hold onto hope that is undeniable. Camo was one of my favorite parts of this story, his calming canine presence was felt and added a silent sense of strength that was a great counterbalance to the chaos. He also was right there to fight for his owner, and I loved to see it. The ending was sweet and satisfying, and I would expect nothing less from a Love Inspired novel. I closed the book with nothing but admiration for Summer’s incredible bravery and a prayer that we can one day find an end to human trafficking as a whole and that those affected will find the same peace and freedom.
Though this is a tougher subject matter it is well worth the read. The characters are incredible, the action is nonstop, and you will leave the story with a sense of grace and hope.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
I love this series so much and Elliot has always been one of my favorite characters. While the romance aspect felt a bit disjointed considering they’rI love this series so much and Elliot has always been one of my favorite characters. While the romance aspect felt a bit disjointed considering they’re truly in life and death situations, attraction can come at strange times, and I truly love seeing how well Eden and Elliot complement one another.
As with all of the other novels in this series, the action starts from the get-go and the tension does not let up the entire time you’re reading. This is one of those novels that it’s easy to get lost in the narrative, the minutes reading flying by in a blur as you witness the fight against terrorism from an up close and personal perspective.
The overall pace of the novel is great, and there is a nice balance between action and slower scenes. Eden’s backstory is so incredibly tragic. I cannot even begin to imagine having to deal with the kind of loss that she has in her young life. The tender moments that she shares with Elliot feel so genuine that my heart broke for her.
I felt like it took me mere minutes to read instead of hours and it truly feels like this series gets better and better....more
Tony and River are on a fresh case but their heckles are still raised knowing that River is still in a madman’s crosshairs. The memories of what she’sTony and River are on a fresh case but their heckles are still raised knowing that River is still in a madman’s crosshairs. The memories of what she’s been through continue to accost her mind and she tries to focus and move on, each painful memory torturous, but your girl is a fighter and pushes through to the bitter end.
Though I haven’t had a chance to read the first two novels in this series, yet the author does a wonderful job of interweaving parts of the first two installments into this narrative. It gives the reader a taste of what has happened in the past while flowing right along with the current investigation, so you never feel left out of the loop.
I really liked the organic banter between Tony and River. It’s clear that they have a chemistry that feels natural and have a great deal of respect and admiration for one another without being over the top. I appreciated how both of them used their faith to hold one another up, even quoting Scripture for strength. These moments were quite powerful to me.
The multilayers of this story are what really made this novel stand out. Having the cold cases interwoven into the missing person case was great and the serial killer stalker was the horrifying cherry on top and took it to a whole other level. Once I hit the halfway mark, I could not put it down and read it straight through to the end. The only thing I regret is not reading the first two novels in this series first! This was a fantastic read with a satisfying ending and is a clean Christian suspense that I highly recommend.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
I enjoyed A Brother’s Wager so much that I immediately started the second book in the series, Sketches by the Serpentine. I listened to it on Audible I enjoyed A Brother’s Wager so much that I immediately started the second book in the series, Sketches by the Serpentine. I listened to it on Audible while running errands and while I didn’t have a lot of time to sit and listen, and had to break it up in multiple listening's, I never felt lost.
While I did love A Brother’s Wager, I think I liked Sketches by the Serpentine even more! Now that Cassie is married her younger sister, Felicity Comfort, enters society mid-season. Felicity has a lightness about her that shined thanks to narrator, Maria Johnson, who did a phenomenal job. Felicity quickly meets Magnus Blackstone, a tortured artist who is the grumpy to Felicity’s sunshine, and a recluse due to a rumored dark past. Despite their differences there is an attraction between the two that leads to a beautiful relationship that was wonderful to witness.
There are so many things that could keep these two apart but with excellent writing and a lot of heart it led to a wonderful happily ever after that was so satisfying. This clean and sweet romance will have you swooning from beginning to end.
I’m normally one to choose a physical book over an audiobook but honestly, I feel like the audiobook really brings this world to life in vivid technicolor so if you have the opportunity to listen to it, I highly recommend....more
I’m not normally one that likes novellas because they feel incomplete and inauthentic but not once did I feel this way about this novel. There is no tI’m not normally one that likes novellas because they feel incomplete and inauthentic but not once did I feel this way about this novel. There is no time wasted on the drama or the suspense, dropping you into the direst of situations all surrounding a sweet, baby boy. Even without knowing many details about these characters I still felt like I knew them, which is an astonishing feat and shows off the incredible writing talent of Danielle Grandinetti.
Reading about an icy blizzard was the perfect reprieve on a hot, summer night and is perfect for those of us that love a little Christmas in July. I have adored Casper’s character in previous novels and loved seeing him get some redemption as he’s finally able to gain clarity about himself. Eira Mae is a pure soul and seeing her and Casper interact with sweet baby Lewis huddled up in the cabin during the blizzard were such sweet moments, and my favorite part of this novella. I loved seeing them bond and make the best out of a not-so-ideal situation.
Time always seems to feel like it’s on fast forward when you’re reading a novella, but I didn’t feel that way with this Christmas gem whatsoever. The pacing was perfection, and I could feel the blanket of peace as much as the characters could feel the blanket of ice-cold snow landing atop the small cabin in the middle of nowhere. I am enjoying this festive Christmas novella series so much and I can’t wait to see who will be blessed by the cabin next!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Such an utterly charming novel! What first caught my attention was this incredibly gorgeous cover, but it didn’t take long for me to fall in love withSuch an utterly charming novel! What first caught my attention was this incredibly gorgeous cover, but it didn’t take long for me to fall in love with this world and all its inhabitants. There is definitely a Beauty and the Beast vibe that I picked up on right away and I was living for it.
Sadie truly carries the weight of the world on her shoulders, having to bear the financial responsibility of her family after her father has an unfortunate riding accident. Otis is dealing with a lot of physical and emotional scars that have made him a recluse and it takes a special girl to bring him back to life with a little bit of fate, faith, and a touch of matchmaking.
The setting is one of my favorites when it comes to historical fictions, which is the early 1900’s. The scenery described is positively picturesque but what really drew me in was the characters. I adored Otis and Sadie but Mildred and Leon were like a breath of fresh air, their wit and wisdom grounding situations and helped nudge our protagonists along.
There are scenes that tugged on my heart and other moments that were seriously some of the sweetest moments I’ve ever read. I enjoyed reading this novel and getting lost in this world so much. A great summer read indeed!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Second-chance romances are not normally my favorite sub-genre but when you read a story about two individuals who clearly belong together it’s not harSecond-chance romances are not normally my favorite sub-genre but when you read a story about two individuals who clearly belong together it’s not hard to get all of those warm, fuzzy feelings as you’re reading. I adored both Poppy and Leo and I enjoyed reading their second-chance romance tremendously.
Though I have read a lot of the Conner Brothers series I have not had the chance to read Wanting You, so I do not know the story of how Poppy’s parents came to be. The author does a great job of catching the reader up, making this a great standalone read, but I do plan on going back and reading their story. After getting to know them in this novel I can’t help but be curious about their courtship.
Leo and Poppy are as sugar-coated as the many sweets they consume during this novel. Poppy and Leo are both so caring and seeing the low-key abuse Leo’s endured at the hands of multiple women in his life truly had my heart hurting for him and craving a respite. Poppy coming back into his life was a definite breath of fresh air as she seems to be the only woman who cares about what Leo wants. I loved all of the coffee shop meets throughout this novel as well as all the sweet treat references, which spoke to my sweet tooth.
This was a fun, quick read that was full of heart and shows the ins and outs of what it can mean to do life with family, both the good and the not so good. I cannot rave about this novel, or this series, enough. I love coming back to the Connor Brothers clan and not only getting updates about those that we’ve met in past novels, but also getting introduced to the next generation. They continue to get better and better.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Have you ever picked up a book with the intention of only reading a chapter or two before bed and end up blacking out and reading the entire book, losHave you ever picked up a book with the intention of only reading a chapter or two before bed and end up blacking out and reading the entire book, losing precious sleep, but it was worth it? That’s exactly what happened when I picked up The Women of Wynton’s.
What first drew me was the cover and the “classy 1950’s mystery” moniker. I have always enjoyed studying this time in American history. The prosper after WWII and seeing how the country changed after such a dark time is fascinating. Though there was still a lot that needed to change the breeze of change was blowing and it was evident in this novel as well. I was instantly transported to this time where shopping was more of an experience than a chore.
We follow four women who work in different departments on Wynton’s while a murder mystery unravels. The best part of a mystery novel is finding out whodunit and this was the most satisfying part. Even guessing early on did not take away from the satisfaction I felt at seeing it all come to fruition. I am thankful for great writing and a setting and characters that I instantly fell in love with.
I love how short the chapters are. It’s easy to jump in and out of each character's point of view clearly and I love the little illustrations of each woman on their said chapters is a very cute touch.
One thing that really struck me with this novel was the relationships and attention to the issues of the time. I loved how the camaraderie didn’t come instantly with the women but was more organic and a slower burn.
I’m also glad the author didn’t shy away from the racial tension that was prevalent in this region during this time. She portrayed strong African American characters and how poorly they were treated, which was hard for me to read, but it was also shown that not everyone believed in segregation and felt like they should all be equal and did what they could do to stand with their friends. I really thought this was a refreshing take that matches my sentiments exactly.
Sorry for the long review but I can’t rave enough about this book! I was consumed in this world one hot, summer night and it became one of my favorite novels of the summer.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Wow! I felt like I was in a different world when I read Coal Black Lies. The moment I picked up this book I was transported to another time and place,Wow! I felt like I was in a different world when I read Coal Black Lies. The moment I picked up this book I was transported to another time and place, the Appalachia coming alive in my mind like never before. I have never read anything by this author before, but I plan on reading everything I can get my hands on. Cindy Sproles has an amazing talent for bringing an unknown world to life with her words and captured my heart and imagination in her telling.
It has often been said that money is the root of all evil and that is plainly seen in this novel. I could feel the heart of the Appalachia as I read the descriptions of rural Kentucky at the turn of the century. I hate hearing about the conditions of the coal mines and what the poor men and families went through to survive during this time. It’s a nasty black stain on our nation’s history, that’s for sure, and it cast a darker shadow on this novel, along with other, darker subject matter. I was very thankful for the shorter chapters for this highly emotional and layered story.
I appreciated that the dialogue felt authentic and believable for the era and area, and the whole novel felt so natural that if you told me this was a true story I’d easily believe you. In my mind, a long time ago, these people existed in the mountains, and I was lucky enough to hear their tales of loss, love, and the fight for truth against the forces of evil.
One of the most surprising things happened as I was finishing the novel. I actually had to put the book down and started crying! The culmination of the story and the breathtaking picture of grace was so blindingly vivid that I whispered, “Wow…” as tears filled my eyes and I had to take a moment, praising God for all of His goodness. I finished the last few pages with tears staining my cheeks and my heart full. God really does know exactly what you need when you need it. Praise be! I cannot tell you the last time I had this happen while reading something other than the Bible.
Yes, this is a heavy read with some deep subject matter, but the message is so incredibly powerful that it is worth the read. I cannot recommend this novel and this author enough!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
This is how you start a series! Wow! This was such a good novel!! I love the grouchy/sunshine troupe and Harrison and Cassie couldn’t be better modelsThis is how you start a series! Wow! This was such a good novel!! I love the grouchy/sunshine troupe and Harrison and Cassie couldn’t be better models of these attributes. Cassie has a sunny, positive outlook, is all about family, and lives with her heart on her sleeve. Harrison is an actor that is getting his shot at a lead, but he also had a chip on his shoulder and has some pretty thick walls built up around his heart.
I loved Carrie showing her sassy side to Harrison and I was living for the whole enemies-to-lovers that dominated this novel. I also loved the tongue-in-cheek moments. There were scenes that had me smirking and it’s been awhile since I’ve audibly chuckled. It was nice having moments where I audibly giggled, especially at the antics that befell the hero, but then there were moments where the characters searched their souls for clarity, and I felt those moments down to my own core. They are thoughts I’m sure all of have pondered at one time or another and they hit hard.
I love seeing characters come back and check in and there were quite a few name drops that got me all giddy and even more excited for this series. I enjoyed reading this novel so much! The characters are wonderful, the plot kept me interested, and I could see this breathtaking ranch so vividly. I cannot wait for the next novel in the series!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
I fell in love with the first book in the Fabiola Bennett Mystery series and was so excited to get my hands on the second book, and it did not disappoI fell in love with the first book in the Fabiola Bennett Mystery series and was so excited to get my hands on the second book, and it did not disappoint. I feel like no time has passed and I was able to pick up right where I left off with the amazingly talented art historian and sleuth Fabiola Bennett from the first novel.
A good, laidback mystery is exactly what this stressed-out gal needed right now. Life has been insanity, so it was nice to escape to a place I’ve always dreamed of going while also going on a suspenseful adventure and learning about art and history. I always learn so much when I read a novel from this series and my love of art history grows exponentially.
There are great moments of suspense and I love every moment that Fabiola, Cary, and Pippa are together. Their friendship grows stronger with every adventure, and I can’t help but hope that Cary and Fabiola end up together one day. Their bond is goals in my book and seeing their interactions fills my heart with joy. I love this series so, so much and cannot wait to see the trio in France!!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Lately, I have been feeling like I’m reading the same narratives over and over again and have been in a reading rut, so I can’t tell you how refreshinLately, I have been feeling like I’m reading the same narratives over and over again and have been in a reading rut, so I can’t tell you how refreshing it was to have a change of scenery in Love Overboard, which is primarily set on a cruise ship.
The narration bounces between octogenarian matchmaker Emily Windsor and the two lucky candidates that her and her matchmaking group, the Shippers, are determined to match up, Jonathan and Lacey. Luckily for the matchmaking crew Jonathan and Lacey already have a past and it’s clear that the embers still smolder, and the attraction is very much alive between these two.
I adored every scene with the Shippers. Those old biddies had my heart from the start and added so much charm to this novel. Seeing their interactions truly gives me hope for my later years and I think I know what I want to be when I grow up! Lacey and Jonathan are also sweet in their own right, but the Shippers are who kept me reading.
This is a very character-driven novel with elements of mystery that keep the narrative quite interesting. It is a slight side story that you can’t help but wonder about as you read the going’s on aboard the MS Buckingham. I had guessed the culprits from the start, but it was still nice to see how the story as a whole played out, though a nice surprise twist would’ve really added the perfect amount of spice.
I ended up reading this novel in one sitting after being down with an illness and enjoyed it so much. There were a few parts that did drag, and I could’ve seen a tad more condensed, but overall it was a cute story with great characters, love and friendship, and dreamy scenery that has me really wanting to go on a cruise.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
Just when one war ends another begins, and this war is more personal than either Cade or Lily could possibly imagine. A steamboat explosion sends thouJust when one war ends another begins, and this war is more personal than either Cade or Lily could possibly imagine. A steamboat explosion sends thousands of newly released Union POWs into the Mississippi River just as the country is trying to pick up the pieces from the devastation of the Civil War, mixing Union soldiers with Confederates and their sympathizers, no one knowing who to trust or where loyalties lie.
Told in vivid detail, it’s clear this text was a labor of love, and I am so grateful that the author was finally able to tell her Civil War-era story. The story is so beautifully told and gave light to an otherwise unknown moment in history while also telling a story of a prodigal son’s return to his Father and a girl finding her home. I loved all of the tender moments when Cade and Lily were getting to know one another, and Lily was tending Cade’s wounds while God was bringing him to the end of himself was such a beautiful picture of grace. This a very character-driven novel with soul-touching individuals like Lily and Cade, and others that truly made me skin crawl and my blood boil, which is a testament to the author’s talent.
While I was reading, I found myself pondering how all of this could’ve occurred and wondering why I’ve never once heard about this sad tragedy. Granted, it happened at an incredibly tumultuous time in our country’s history, especially with so many lives lost in such a short amount of time, but that doesn’t make it any less tragic. This is truly an unimaginable event and it’s a moment in time that deserves to be remembered.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
To Catch a Coronet is to fall in love with a literary world and all of its quirky inhabitants. From the first few pages I knew this was going to be a To Catch a Coronet is to fall in love with a literary world and all of its quirky inhabitants. From the first few pages I knew this was going to be a different type of Regency read and I was correct in my initial assumption.
Muriel’s independence and the fact that she stays true to herself despite the pushback she gets from others in polite society is refreshing. She has a lightness about her that draws you in and when her and Erik share moments together it is nothing short of magical. The Captain compliments her in every way possible and you can feel the energy between these two vibrating off the pages. They are both such good-natured beings and have such big hearts that you would have to be heartless to not feel the tug on your heartstrings for their possible love match.
The story begins with one of the most embarrassing scenes I think I’ve ever read in a Regency-era novel. It was so incredibly cringe that I felt low-key embarrassed just reading it! I seriously wanted to reach through the pages and give Muriel a hug, even if the entire ordeal was her doing. From that moment on I knew this was a different story and devoured this novel like a delicious confectionery treat. There are moments that will make you feel mortified, others will make your blood boil, and many will make your heart swoon.
I loved this novel so much and am positively giddy with the prospect of future novels! I cannot wait to see where this series will take us next! My hope is that it will focus on one of Muriel’s best friends, as they were some of my favorite characters and I’d love to see their happily ever afters. Until then I can bask in the memories of reading this delicious novel.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own....more
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