A review of Playing the Part

I was very excited when I received Playing the Part in the mail. It is the third and final book in her latest series.  This book is the story of Lucetta Plum, an actress from New York who has to leave the city to escape the intentions of an over eager fan.  Her escape lands her at the estate of Bram Haverstein, the grandson of her benefactor. Bram is also an admirer of Ms Plum, although he does not fully understand the mysterious depth of Ms Plum's personality. 

Lucetta's initial impression of Bram is also wrong, as his intriguing and somewhat distressing at times facade also hides mysteries for which Ms Plum is unprepared. The tale that follows is full of mayhem, romance, and adventure as they both work to protect Ms Plum from danger.  I am unsure how Mrs. Turano does it, but her female heroines are always hilarious and strong.  These heroines are always a good match for their stronger yet tender counterparts. 

My favorite part of the novel is the magnetism between Lucetta and Bram. They are drawn to each other, but they are unsure how to approach the other because of the questionable qualities that don't quite up between the two until all their secrets are out.  As a reader, I too was drawn to the characters as I tried to figure out what was going on in the book. It makes for a very great read, and made it hard for me to put the book down until I finished it. 

This book is a great read for anyone who enjoys historical romance with a little mystery thrown in. This book can be read as a stand alone novel, but I would recommend reading the other two books first. It would help with understanding Lucetta's character and story. 

* I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.  My opinions are my own. *

Risen: a review of the book

I've read the Gopsels and know the accounts of the resurrection from the Believers, but I'd have never thought to look at it from the view point of a Roman Tribune. If you have watched TV or even checked social media these days, surely you've heard about the movie Risen. Well, it is in book form as well, and I just finished it. 

Angela Hunt wrote the novelization of the movie and I have to say it was very well written. It is a fictional account, but it contains many actual facts from the Gospels.  It is very different to see the story told from the viewpoint of one who is a very strong adherent to Roman life with the aspects of Old Testament law from the San Hedrin who were trying to keep the story hidden. 

The novel switches between first person accounts of Clavius, the Roman Tribune, and Rachel, a Jewish woman. Clavius was present at the crucifixion and is sent by Pilate to investigate the reports that the Nazarene's body has disappeared. Rachel is not involved directly with the investigation but through her relationship with Clavius and business in the temple and in Jerusalem, she is taken along on the journey. And what a journey it is!  

I watched the movie too, but the book adds so much more. The book tells a very vibrant and rich account. Everyone needs to read this book. 

*I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.*

"With This Ring" gets a YES from me!

Every once in a while, there comes a time when several of your favorite authors have a new book out and you have to choose which one to purchase first. Well, With This Ring will solve that dilemma for you. This book is a collection of four novellas from some of the best names in the business, in my opinion.  In this book, we get introduced to new characters and reintroduced to characters we have met before. 

Karen Witemeyer brings us the story of Marietta and Daniel, with her usual penchant for a sweet and strong female and a tough yet tender hero. That is followed by the always hilarious Regina Jennings' tale of a couple caught together by the weather while having to deal with the flood of their feelings for each other and a seemingly dangerous stranger.  

Mary Connealy pitches in with the story of a woman running from an unwanted engagement only to find herself with a very wanted protector. Melissa Jagears finishes up with Charlotte and Harrison, who literally and figuratively have tonovercome the inability to see what is right in front of them before they lose what really matters. 

Each story is a small yet satisfying taste of what each of these authors can do. If you have never given any of these authors a chance, this book is an excellent introduction. Even if you have tried them before, this book is the right choice to help make the wait between books a little easier to bear. I really enjoyed these stories and I know you will too. 

*I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.*

Until the Dawn is a sure hit!

I have come to highly anticipate Elizabeth Camden’s novels.  Ms. Camden has a penchant for combining history with scientific breakthroughs from around the same time period into captivating depictions.  Some authors take the same story line and change it up a bit but not so with Ms. Camden.  Each of her novels is a new and fascinating take on history.  Her latest novel, Until the Dawn, tells the story of Sophie and Quentin.  Sophie is a volunteer for the Weather Bureau who has set up a weather station at one of Quentin’s family homes, Dierenpark.  Aside from a few servants set to keep watch, Dierenpark has sat vacant for many years.  Quentin has come to Dierenpark on a mission from his grandfather and is accompanied by his young son. 

 

Sophie and Quentin are at odds from the first, separated not only by their visions for Dierenpark, but also by social and economic statuses and different spiritual beliefs.  They are drawn together  by the needs of Quentin’s son and strange occurrences at Dierenpark.  Ultimately throughout the book, they are drawn together by more than just Pieter but I’ll let you read for yourself to find that out.  Although this is considered as inspirational romance, there is so much more to the book that just romance.  The reader is taken on a journey to find out about the beginnings of the weather bureau, and also discoveries about the history of the place.  

I recommend this book for readers who enjoy romance combined with enough mystery and adventure to keep you turning the pages. I could not put this book down and I hope you have the same "problem" with it. 😉

Great new book by a new author!

I love regency romance, and I loved this regency romance.  A Noble Masquerade is the debut novel by Kristi Ann Hunter.  (There was a novella before this book that I completely missed – however I have downloaded the novella and it will be my next read.)  This delightful book tells the story of Miranda, who in lieu of a journal, has been writing her most secrets thoughts in letters to her brother’s longtime friend, the Duke of Marshington.  She keeps most of the letters locked away, but when her brother’s valet accidentally mails one to the duke.  To her chagrin, the duke writes her back and the adventure begins.     

What follows is a whirlwind of crazy and imaginative accidents and coincidences.  Miranda manages to get herself into some comical situations, but she also has some very sensitive moments.  She is about to enter her fourth Season, and feels like her younger sister will outshine her.  She feels held back by the strict “Lady” rules her mother has placed on her all her life, and does not know how to let her real self shine through, except through letters to the duke.  When Miranda and the duke finally meet, she still holds herself back.   

The Duke, (Marsh as he is called), is not what I expected at all.   Marsh has been hiding himself too, although not in the shadow of a sibling.  He has been out of the public eye in service to his country.  It was interesting to see how Ms. Hunter bent the societal rules of Regency England to bring Miranda and Marsh together.  Marsh has to work around his “career” and Miranda has to work around her character, so together they can both be the best they can be, together. 

This book is a good choice for anyone who enjoys regency romance.  There is a little intrigue included, towards the middle of the book.  This added extra to an already good storyline.  I look forward to what Ms. Hunter will bring us in the future. 

Not by Sight, a charming WWI read

Not by Sight, the latest novel by Kate Breslin, is the story of Grace and Jack.  Grace is an intelligent, independent woman who wants to do whatever she can to support the war effort.  Her efforts are what first brings her into contact with Jack. Grace doesn't think that Jack is doing his part to support the war effort, but eventually finds out differently. Their first meeting was on purpose, their second meeting by chance. What follows is an "intrigue"-ing story of mystery and romance in England during World War I. 

It took a little bit for the book to capture my interest, and when it did, I was not disappointed.  Once I got going in the storyline, I read until I had finished the book. The historical research completed by the author is a major ingredient of what kept the story moving along. There were also spiritual themes through out that also added much to the story. It's refreshing to read a book that not only adds to the reader's historical knowledge but also inspires their faith.  

I really identified with Grace's desire to help all she could even while in situations where she was unsure how to proceed.  Her faith in God and her support of those around her was a good theme throughout the book.  I could also identify with Jack's refusal to have anything to do with things related to the faith, especially with the situations through which he had gone.  It's not always easy to keep trust and faith in God when it's impossible to see where the road is going. Of course, even Grace goes through difficult times in the book. 

This was the first book I had read that was written by Kate Breslin, and it definitely will not be my last. The intrigue mixed in with the romance was just the right mix for a great story. If you like historical romance and intrigue, then this is a good choice for you. 

*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.*

Exploring Christian Theology, Vol 2: a review

This book is the 2nd volume in the series but was the last volume published.  Drs. Nathan Holsteen and Michael Svigel are both professors at Dallas Theological Seminary with extensive backgrounds in theology.  Please note: this was my first introduction to this series. 

It is broken down into several sections for easier reading. One section goes over passages of scripture relating to the subjects of the book and highlights how these scriptures were used as the basis for different theological beliefs over the span of history.  The next couple of sections highlight the important facts that are the foundation of our belief system and certain areas that that can be dangerous to us in our Christian walk.  The last section provides direct examples of leaders and confessions from the past that supplement the scriptures and time periods that were previously discussed. 

I really liked how the book was set up.  It makes it easier for those who are new to Christianity and/or theology to get their feet wet a little bit at a time without getting in over their heads.  The book discusses subjects that are beneficial to Christians in any level of their spiritual walk.  The subjects and examples use will allow the reader to reason through their beliefs and help them understand why they believe what they do. This is a great way to introduce people to theology. 

*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.*

A review of In Good Company by Jen Turano

In Good Company is the second book in the series A Class of Their Own by Jen Turano. Although this book works well as a standalone novel, we are re-introduced to the characters of Everett Mulberry and Millie Longfellow.  Everett is a desperate man looking for a good nanny and Millie is a desperate woman trying to be a good nanny.  When their situations bring them together, what follows is a hilarious tale of mayhem, mystery, and matchmaking.  

I don't know how Mrs. Turano does it, but her characters get into some of the funniest and strangest scrapes that one could imagine.  This book follows a similar story line to some of her other books but yet is entirely different.  The characters' personalities really start to show as the story progresses. Both Millie and Everett were easy to identify with as they are trying to live up to expectations in society without realizing that what they needed was already available to them.  I very much enjoyed watching them grow and fall in love throughout the book.   

This is totally irrelevant to the review, but I enjoyed the fact that Ms. Turano mentioned both my favorite painter and one of my favorite authors in the book. This book is a great read for anyone who enjoys a historical romance with plenty of humor and romance.  I look forward to reading the next book in the series. 

*I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.*

           

Review of How to Love Your Neighbor Without Being Weird

Sometimes as I sit thinking about people and life in general, the number of unsaved people in the world really overwhelms me. I attend church regularly and serve where I'm needed - at church. However besides praying, I have vague ideas of what I can do to reach people but no concrete ideas of where to start. Amy Lively's new book How to Love Your Neoghbor Without Being Weird is an excellent resource on where and how to start right in my and your own neighborhood. 

Ms. Lively starts out with her own testimony and then follows in each chapter with examples from her own life about how she got to know and reached out to her own neighbors. She discusses the generally narrow definition of neighbor and how the definition we cling to doesn't begin to encompass the broad scope of true neighborhood.  She provides passages from Scripture that reinforce the points that she is emphasizing. 

Ultimately, she states that a person has to get to know their neighbor. To know your neighbors means to know more than their names, you have to be willing learn about their own cultures and beliefs while showing them that you want to learn these things about them. It is in getting to know your neighbors that you will learn how to introduce them to Christ. 

Ms. Lively ends each chapter with practical and deep questions to help you apply what you've read to your life.  She talks about the hinderances and fears that keep us from using our spiritual gifts to serve our neighbors. I found this book to be very helpful in gaining insight into how to reach my neighbors.  The examples and scriptures given in the book where what I needed to help formulate a plan for reaching my own neighbors without being to weird. I'd recommend this book to any Christian who wants to learn the best ways to reach out and share the gospel in their own part of the world. 

*I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. My opinions are my own.*

   

A Worthy Pursuit is worth your time!

Karen Witemeyer is an author who quickly became a favorite of mine with her multidimensional characters and charming storylines.  If I had to choose a favorite from her books, there would be several at the top of the list. Among those books would be A Worthy Pursuit. 

Charlotte is a former headmistress who is willing to do what she has to to protect the children in her care, especially Lily.  Lilly's grandfather will do anything to get her back, including hiring the best bounty hunter in the state of Texas: Stone Hammond.  Stone soon finds out that what he thinks he's looking for is not

what he discovers. 

Karen Witemeyer amazes me with her storylines each time.  She creates characters that are believable and relatable to the reader. Her characters are so deep and multidimensional, it's easy for the reader to get snagged by the story. I know this is the goal of every writer, however few manage to do it as well as Karen Witemeyer. 

A Worthy Pursuit kept me enthralled. After reading the prologue, I was hooked. I started reading in the early evening and did not finish until around 2 AM. It has the right mixture of romance, adventure, depth, and humor for a great read.  Woven throughout is the theme of trusting in God's faithfulness. It's refreshing to be reading a book for pleasure and also be reminds of spiritual truths I need to apply to my own life. 

If you've read books by Karen Witemeyer in the past and loved them, read this book. If you've read her books and didn't love them, read this book. If you've never read her books, read this book. I promise: you won't be disappointed. 

*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. My opinions are my own.*

A Worthy Pursuit is worth your time!

Karen Witemeyer is an author who quickly became a favorite of mine with her multidimensional characters and charming storylines.  If I had to choose a favorite from her books, there would be several at the top of the list. Among those books would be A Worthy Pursuit. 

Charlotte is a former headmistress who is willing to do what she has to to protect the children in her care, especially Lily.  Lilly's grandfather will do anything to get her back, including hiring the best bounty hunter in the state of Texas: Stone Hammond.  Stone soon finds out that what he thinks he's looking for is not

what he discovers. 

Karen Witemeyer amazes me with her storylines each time.  She creates characters that are believable and relatable to the reader. Her characters are so deep and multidimensional, it's easy for the reader to get snagged by the story. I know this is the goal of every writer, however few manage to do it as well as Karen Witemeyer. 

A Worthy Pursuit kept me enthralled. After reading the prologue, I was hooked. I started reading in the early evening and did not finish until around 2 AM. It has the right mixture of romance, adventure, depth, and humor for a great read.  Woven throughout is the theme of trusting in God's faithfulness. It's refreshing to be reading a book for pleasure and also be reminds of spiritual truths I need to apply to my own life. 

If you've read books by Karen Witemeyer in the past and loved them, read this book. If you've read her books and didn't love them, read this book. If you've never read her books, read this book. I promise: you won't be disappointed. 

*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. My opinions are my own.*

A Review of Dee Henderson's Taken

 Dee Henderson has been a favorite author of mine for a long time.  I thoroughly enjoy most of her books and this book was no exception.  

Taken is the story of Shannon Bliss, a young woman who had disappeared eleven years earlier. Shannon is trying to find her way back home, and she has tracked down Matthew Dane to help her. Matthew has the experience and resources needed to help Shannon get home.  Throughout the story, characters from previous novels aid Shannon along the way as well. 

This book was different from Ms. Henderson's recent books, and I liked that.  Some authors seem to get stuck in a rut and the reader can pretty much anticipate what will happen next.  Taken jumps right in and gradually builds on the suspense. There was not a lot of action, but it was not needed with all the information coming out about what had happened to Shannon. 

The storyline did not have as much romance as I usually like, but it did not matter with this novel. The storyline was fantastic without it, and too much would have ruined the story.  The book had just the right mixture of romance and suspense to make it a worthy read.  If you enjoy suspense and like anything Ms. Henderson has written in the past, then this book is a must read for you. 

*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.*

A Review of To Win Her Favor

To Win Her Favor by Tamera Alexander is a story about overcoming and persevering against prejudice in a world where a person’s race, gender, or nationality kept them from their dreams.  Cullen McGrath wants to farm and Maggie Linden wants to race her horse to raise the money to keep her family farm.  They both see their dreams become reality, but in a way neither expects.  Yet with each step they take towards their dream, more challenges arise and threaten to ruin their dreams. 

 

This book had me hooked right from the start.  I found it very easy to identify with Cullen and Maggie as they look for ways to overcome their adversity.  Cullen faces antagonism from the first.  I’ll have to admit, I never really thought about the Irish and what they may have faced when trying to start new lives in America.  It’s common knowledge that although women and former slaves were free, in a sense they were still chained by societal prejudices.  Cullen, who was also free, found himself chained by the same societal prejudices.  Cullen and Maggie have to learn to work together to free themselves from these chains.

  

The struggles that these characters go through are very real, and I found it easy to identify with the characters.  Several parts of the story had me in tears, both happy tears and sad tears.  I also identified with Maggie’s stubborn streak, and her willingness to cross boundaries that before had been closed off to her, to forge friendships with people she would not have before considered as friends.  Cullen and Maggie find the strength to overcome these obstacles, and also find love.

The book did have some intimate scenes between Cullen and Maggie. These were after they were married, which is as God intended. These scenes were fairly crucial to the relationship between the main characters and really add to the storyline. I was not bothered by these scenes in the least. 

 

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it!  

Victoria Bylin's newest book is MUST-READ!

I have read books by Victoria Bylin before, but always historical romance. Together With You is the first of her contemporary novels that I have read. I have to admit, I was a little hesitant at first. I usually prefer to read historical romance. However, this book was a very pleasant surprise. I picked it up, intending to read only a couple of chapters and save the rest for tomorrow.  A couple of hours later and more than halfway through the book, it was impossible to put down.  It was apparent that the storyline was close to Mrs. Bylin's heart and I could tell that she had done her research on the area where the story  takes place and the Fetal Alcohol Effects syndrome talked about in the book. 

The story is about a single father Ryan, who is trying his best to connect with his kids, especially his special needs daughter Penny. Along comes Carly, a woman with a special understanding of and connection to Penny. Carly plays a very big role towards Ryan's goal of connecting with his kids.  A special thing about the story that I loved was the sections that were from Penny's point of view. These sections added a lot to the story and had me in tears more than once.  The storyline stayed in motion, there were no lags in the story. Overall, this is a very well-written book. The spiritual themes running through it had me thinking about aspects of my own life that I need to allow God's grace to cover instead of carrying them on my own.  She also covers the topic of forgiveness, which I think probably everyone needs a reminder of every now and again. 

I will definitely be on the lookout for future books by Victoria Bylin.  This book will definitely become a fast favorite. If you enjoy romance, this is a must read. 

*I received a copy of this book from Bethaby House in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.*

After a Fashion was delightful!

I have enjoyed almost every book that Jen Turano has written, and After a Fashion was no exception!  Oliver Addleshaw, a wealthy businessman, and Harriet Peabody, a lower-class hat maker, meet by chance during an anything but normal encounter.  This encounter sets the pattern for their anything but normal future acquaintance.  Ms. Turano exhibits a talent for creating deep characters with a unique blend of humor and strength, with a dash of adventure thrown in.   Some of the situations the characters face will have the reader rolling on the floor in laughter.

I enjoy how this story combines romance and adventure, with a bit of mystery to make the reader want to keep turning the page.  I was not able to put the book down.  The characters have characteristics that make it easy to identify with them: Oliver is ambitious and a little naïve about some of what is going on in his business, and Harriett is strong because of her upbringing but also forthright or soft when she needs to be.  The storyline was easy to follow and I was not able to guess what was going to happen at the end, which made the book better in my opinion. 

I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a funny romance with a lot adventure and some mystery thrown in.  I did not check, but I’m guessing that After a Fashion is the beginning of another series and I cannot wait to see what Ms. Turano has planned for the other storylines.

*I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.  My opinions are my own.*

Sabotaged by Dani Pettrey

Sabotaged is the fifth book of the Alaskan Courage series by Dani Pettrey, and the first book that I've read in the series. This is the story of Kirra and Reef. Kiera's cousin has been kidnapped during the running of the Iditarod, and Kirra and Reef are trying to locate her. 

The action and adventure starts from page one, literally, and hardly lets up throughout the entire novel.  I stayed fully absorbed with the characters and was excited to see what was next.  There was enough background information given on the characters in this book that I think does fine as a stand alone book. I'm sure I may have understood more if I had read the first books in series, but this book was a good book to acquaint myself with the author. 

I recommend this book to anyone who enjoy suspense and intrigue with a romantic twist. I look forward to reading what Mrs. Pettrey writes in the future, and will probably go back to read the first book on this series. 

*I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for a honest and unbiased review. My opinions are my own.*

This book was "Beyond All Dreams!"

Elizabeth Camden has quickly become one of my favorite authors!  I do not know if there is a word to describe the elation I felt when I finally had the chance to read this book!  Beyond All Dreams brings us the story of Anna, a research librarian working in the Library of Congress, and Luke, a congressman from Maine. Their histories share a lot of the same sorrows that build an almost impenetrable wall between them that their mutual attraction does its best to tear down. 

Mrs. Camden possesses a vast knowledge of medical conditions and I enjoy how she uses her knowledge of these conditions to enhance the storylines of her books. These conditions, while minor, give the main characters (secondary characters more in this book) a lot of depth and draws the reader into the story.  

Another thing I enjoy about her stories is the way she weaves her stories around historical events.  Beyond All Dreams occurs prior to the Spanish-American war.  Although her story is fiction, it gives the reader an understanding of events from a different point of view.  The historical events also give the reader an understanding of what drives the characters in the story.  This book gives insight into the historical events that history books do not. 

This story is a perfect choice for anyone who likes historical romance.  Miss Camden's characters are real and believable, with faults and characteristics that make them relatable to the reader.  I give this book 5 stars and look forward to Mrs. Camden's next release. 

*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. My opinions are my own.*

                                                       

Review of Judith Miller's The Brickmaker's Bride

The Brickmaker's Bride by Judith Miller tells the story of Laura Woodfield and Ewan McKay. Laura's father was killed in the War between the States, leaving his daughter and wife the responsibility for his brickyard. Laura and her mother are trying to sell the brickyard and Ewan and his uncle inquire about purchasing the brickyard from them. 

The Brickmaker's Bride was the first book by Judith Miller that I had read. It started kind of slowly and it took me a little while to get into it. After the first few chapters, the storyline picked up and it was easier to read. I thought the storyline was easy to follow and that the story was well-written. The story ended a little abruptly, but I think that this might because there are more books to follow.  The main characters are believable and the secondary characters add a lot to the storyline.   

This book would be a good read for anyone who likes historical fiction with a little romance thrown in.  

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. 

A review of The Deeper Life by Daniel Henderson

 

Everyone has unmet and unfulfilled longings in their life.  The goal of The Deeper Life – Satisfying the 8 Vital Longings of Your Soul by Daniel Henderson is to show Christians how to fulfill these longings, using stories and activities to help the reader throughout the book.  This book discusses God, human identity, purpose, things of importance, reasons for our actions, and knowing the truth verses actually living 

Christians how to show what their principles and priorities really are through the way they are living.  The book works as an aid to show how to set goals and make a plan on how those goals are going to be achieved.  The end result is that the reader will have learned how to satisfy the longings through these steps.  The last part of the book includes an appendix with activities to aid the reader in accomplishing all the steps.  These are vital exercises to help the reader put the principles from the book into practice.   

 

I had a hard time getting into this book.  I think the principles and the subjects discussed in the book are very important, but I do not feel that this was the right book for me to get these principles.  It may have been because I was reading the book on my own, and not in a group.  I feel that this would be a very good book to read in a group setting, to give the reader an opportunity to discuss the subjects and principles mentioned with other people.  Reading in a group setting is mentioned in the introduction and may be the way the author intended for the book to be used. 

 

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.  My words and opinions are my own. 

"The Dancing Master" made my heart dance...

              

The Dancing Master, Alec Valcourt, arrives in town with his mother and sister and takes up residence with his uncle.  Little does he know, that the way he makes is living is not allowed in Beaworthy.  Soon after he arrives in town, he meets Julia Midwinter.  Julia is the daughter of the most prominent lady in the town.  She is a lively and carefree girl, and longs for more freedom and adventure than she can find around her. Alec is trying his best to support his mother and sister in the only way he knows.  After Julia and Alec meet, they become entwined in an adventure that neither one of them expected, filled with mystery and maybe more adventure than Julia was looking for.  Alec is trying to keep the secrets of his past hidden, and Julia is trying to find out the secrets have been hidden from her all of her life. 

 

I have read most of Julie Klassen’s books and I have to say that this was one of my favorites.  It ranks very high on my list of her books.  I am a Jane Austen fan, and I loved catching the nods she makes to Austen’s works in this novel.  Ms. Klassen’s weaving of mystery and romance engage the reader from the start and keep them guessing until the end.  There are enough clues revealed throughout the story to keep the reader enthralled.  At the first, Julia seems like a shallow character, but her personality soon comes out in full force and I could not help but love her.  And what's not to love about Alec?  If you enjoy Jane Austen and like historical romance set in England, then this would be a great book for you to read.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for an unbiased and honest review. My opinions are my own.