Just as lovely and breathtaking as the first time I read this one. It is unmatched in its beautiful storyline and characters. A must read.2023 review:
Just as lovely and breathtaking as the first time I read this one. It is unmatched in its beautiful storyline and characters. A must read.
2021 review:
"I live every time I dance onstage."
YOU GUYS. This book is absolutely stunning. It is on another level and I am blown away at Joanna Davidson Politano's ability to write such beautiful stories that pull you in like no other.
After the first chapter alone, I knew in my bones that this would be a book I loved. And I desperately wanted to ignore my real life responsibilities so I could spend more time reading.
I absolutely loved that this book was about ballet and set in the theater. There is an ethereal beauty that ballet embodies, and this book infused that sense of wonder and magic into the pages, both when the characters were dancing, and when they were on adventures offstage.
This book was such a delight. From the rivalries and friendships, to the mystery and adventures, all in the midst of dance, I was so invested in this story. Ella's struggle drew me in, and watching her wrestle between the certainty that dance was what she's made to do and the uncertainty of how to pursue that dream had me eager to read more.
And with the twist at the end, I was nearly in tears, it had my heart bursting with happiness. I absolutely loved it. What a hero.
If you want to read a book with lyrical writing about vibrant characters who are full of life, with a dash of mystery and the romantic essence of dance, I hope you choose to read this book. JDP is a master storyteller, and her books are well worth your time.
“We can talk about me if you wish, but I’d much rather speak of the God for whom I dance.”
I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. These are my honest and personal thoughts on the book....more
OMG this book is so good! Sarah Sundin has done it again!
I absolutely loved this book. Sarah Sundin is one of my favorite authors, so I'm always battlOMG this book is so good! Sarah Sundin has done it again!
I absolutely loved this book. Sarah Sundin is one of my favorite authors, so I'm always battling between the desire to 1) read her books immediately or 2) wait to read her books so I can savor them. Waiting for her next book is always so hard!
Let me tell you, I was not fully prepared for the emotional journey this book took me on. Set in pre-WWII Germany, Evelyn Brand is a spitfire American journalist who is always looking for a good story. When assigned to a story, she meets Peter, an American teaching at a German university and working towards becoming a professor. From there, the novel really takes off at a fast pace with high stakes.
This novel is truly compelling. The descriptions of the cruelties inflicted on Jews and the increasingly horrific nature of how they were treated was heartbreaking and unsettling. Evelyn seeks to report a truthful perspective of what is happening in Germany, while Peter's eyes are unveiled to the violence and chaos going on around them.
The tension in this novel is pitch-perfect, both in the romance and the danger. Between the captivating characters, a thrilling plot, and expert story-telling, I was on the edge of my seat reading this. I was caught up in the urgency to escape the violence and worried about the danger all around the characters. I worried for how they were going to survive, and if they'd be able to escape with the odds against them. I stayed up late reading because I just couldn't put the book down. I had to know the fates of Evelyn and Peter, and WOW was it worth it!
This book is obviously a new favorite of mine, and it will have permanent place on my shelves. I highly recommend this to fans of WWII fiction. You won't regret it!...more
Still absolutely love this novel. Love the love story and then the complexity of emotion, the intense underlying conflict/tension and the1/2019 reread
Still absolutely love this novel. Love the love story and then the complexity of emotion, the intense underlying conflict/tension and the desire to belong. And the art.
*Happy sigh*
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Life and beauty burst off the pages of A Portrait of Emily Price. I felt like I stepped into another world while I read. The characters, the places they visited, and the struggles they face all held authenticity and breathed life. Katherine Reay is a master storyteller.
Some sentences would be so beautiful or thought-provoking that I would read them again a second or third time just to soak it all in. This is one of those books I wanted to read fast because I loved it and needed to know what happened, but at the same time, I wanted to read it slowly so I could savor all the things I loved about it.
I am growing to love stories told in the first-person point of view. It gives you a deeper insight into the main character’s mind and makes the impact of their character growth that much stronger. I was thrilled this book was told from Emily’s POV exclusively. And the short chapters made it so easy for me to read a ‘little bit more’ before my lunch break ended or I went to bed each night. The Italian dialogue sprinkled throughout the novel added an extra layer to the story, both making it more beautiful and realistic, while also spotlighting Emily’s struggle to belong in her new family.
I was pulled into this novel almost immediately with the Italian family restaurant and the cute tables, and everyone speaking in Italian. From the moment you meet Ben, you will love him. He is adorable and charming. As Emily would say, “This guy had no clue how handsome he was. You could tell by his eyes. Eyes never hide and never lie. His danced with laughter and no awareness at all that I was melting right before him.” And with that, I knew I was going to love his character and this story; and this is only page three. Ben is all heart, and his love for his family is clearly seen through his actions, which are a natural outpouring of who he is.
Italy. I absolutely love that this novel took us to Italy. The place, the atmosphere, the food, and the family all felt uniquely Italian. Emily arrives and is hit with the reality of her new home where everything is foreign and different. As she tries to find her place in Ben’s family, life becomes increasingly complicated and difficult. She tries to fit in, but she always seems to bump into someone. Her struggle with belonging is an aspect of this novel I was really interested in, watching her face all this newness and trying to learn and change with her new reality.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions I expressed in this review are my own.*
3/13/17 Update: I just love this book so much. SO MUCH.
*This is my 2016 review that was originally posted on my blog. Just finally adding it here :)*
S3/13/17 Update: I just love this book so much. SO MUCH.
*This is my 2016 review that was originally posted on my blog. Just finally adding it here :)*
Stunning.
Experiencing the circus is a myriad of sights and sounds and smells bombarding your senses. The atmosphere is alive with excitement and color. Joanne captured this perfectly on the page, and I really felt like I was standing amidst the chaotic magnificence of the circus. This is one of the few reading experiences I can think of that the scenes were written so vividly, I felt I was there.
Within the circus is where the majority of the story takes place. And where the setting comes alive, the characters do more so. Charlie Lionheart and Ella Beckley are two characters made up of so much depth and heart. They have entirely different backgrounds and upbringings, yet they find each other. A lion tamer and a nurse. They both carry hurts from their pasts and pain that is hard to grapple with. Both of them find it difficult to hope for a future with anything but what they already have. They hesitate to want more, to reach for something different for their lives.
My heart ached while reading this novel. I was so invested in these characters and their lives. I wanted to see a happy ending, but I had no idea how it would be found for them. During the work week, I couldn’t wait for my lunch break so I could read a few more chapters. IT IS SO GOOD.
It is lovely and breathtaking and a story that I have not been able to stop thinking about since I finished reading it days ago. It is a powerful story about love and sacrifice.
Heartrending and beautiful, please don’t pass this one up. I never felt like I could figure out where this story was going, so every time the plot was given a new layer to grapple with, my heart would hurt a little more. Wanting to find resolution and not knowing how or if it would come for these beloved characters. Wanting happiness to be a reality for them after the darkness they had both experienced in the past.
And I definitely cried. Chapter 32 broke my heart so completely. And a book that makes me cry is a rare gem.
*I received an e-copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to write a review. This is my honest opinion and all thoughts are my own.* ...more
This book is beautiful. Secrets She Kept follows Hannah Sterling as she tries to piece together the clues her late mother, Lieselotte, left behind in This book is beautiful. Secrets She Kept follows Hannah Sterling as she tries to piece together the clues her late mother, Lieselotte, left behind in order to learn who she really was. Cathy Gohlke seamlessly weaves Lieselotte’s story of bravery and persecution during World War II with her daughter’s discovery of her life.
Both stories are equally compelling, and constantly left me eager to read more. I would finish a chapter following Hannah and be intensely curious to know what happened next, and then the next chapter would take me back to Lieselotte. Then I would find myself wanting to read more about Lieselotte and it would be time to read about Hannah again. I love that both characters were so intriguing and I was invested in both sides of the story.
This book explores how our circumstances shape us and test our courage in the face of uncertain times. It explores what perseverance and strength in the midst of adversity looks like. And it explores what it means to struggle to understand someone you don’t know and grasp for answers.
Secrets She Kept is a powerful novel. It reveals that even in the darkness, faith shines through.
*With thanks to Tyndale Publishers for providing a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Annie has a voice that is filled with truth and wisdom. She writes to you as if you are sitting across the table from her, sharing her heart and lettiAnnie has a voice that is filled with truth and wisdom. She writes to you as if you are sitting across the table from her, sharing her heart and letting us all into her life. And that vulnerability, that courage to share herself so completely, is beautiful. Add in a little humor, and this book is a hit!
Let’s All Be Brave is filled with gems of truth that push you to pursue what God has placed on your heart. You already know what that is. Annie shows you that it is okay to take that leap of faith, to be brave, even if you can’t see how it all works. Life pursuing what God has for each of us is far better than the lives we would live on our own.
This book is powerful. It will make you think about your life and how amazing it is when you pursue God with arms wide open, seeking direction from Him.
So, if you have a dream, if you have aspirations for your future, read this book. If you feel scared or anxious, if you hesitate at the sight of unanswered questions and the unknown, read this book. If you are in need of encouragement, read this book.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”...more
Price of Privilege is engaging, thrilling, and endlessly intriguing. I had to fight the urge to devour this book in one sitting becauseMy 2015 review:
Price of Privilege is engaging, thrilling, and endlessly intriguing. I had to fight the urge to devour this book in one sitting because I wanted to make it last a little longer. I was desperate to find out what was going to happen next because I could never figure it out. I mean, there were twists in nearly every chapter, so it’s impossible to put it down.
Jessica Dotta is a brilliant story teller. She has a magnificent writing talent that has blown me away. This book explores the consequences of decisions. How they affect so many lives and reach further than we can imagine when making those decisions.
When everything is stripped from you, what is left of who you are? This is the question Jessica Dotta grapples with throughout her remarkable series, and what unfolds before your eyes is the most incredible story.
Let’s talk characters:
Jameson is the best. I absolutely loved his character. His playful banter with Julia brightened the pages with humor in an otherwise dark story. In his attempts to make light of serious situations, I would find myself laughing along with Julia as she learned to open herself up to love and trust the people who had her best interests at heart.
Speaking of trust, that is one of the most interesting aspects of this series. You are perpetually anxious because you don’t know which characters to believe. What are their motives? Are they going to be a traitor? WHO CAN I TRUST?
Edward, oh how I love him. He is fierce and passionate.
And Isaac. I find his character fascinating. He is loyal to a fault and pure in heart. It was so hard to figure him out but what a complex character! I love him, too.
“The way we treat people determines what they become.” (332)
And the ending? What a surprise. I felt as if my heart had been ripped out of my chest, thrown on the ground, and stomped all over. I sat in shocked pain and disbelief when I finished. I never saw it coming, but it was fantastic.
I urge you to read this book, but please start at the beginning (otherwise so many secrets will be spoiled!).
*Thank you to the publisher, who provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
First read: Dec2014/Jan2015 Second read: July 2016 Thrid read: October 2020...more
1st read: June 2014 2nd read: July 2016 3rd read: September 2020
My 2014 review:
Mark of Distinction picks up I am completely blown away. An amazing book!
1st read: June 2014 2nd read: July 2016 3rd read: September 2020
My 2014 review:
Mark of Distinction picks up where Born of Persuasion left readers. The revelation that Julia is Lord Pierson’s daughter changes her life, as she is thrust into the world of the elite, hopelessly trying to navigate her new surroundings. Her life is forever altered as she is placed in a position of great wealth.
In this new and unfamiliar world, Julia struggles through uncertainty, pain, anger, fear, and heartache. Her brokenness is displayed for the reader to watch as she longs to be loved and accepted by her father. She yearns to find where she belongs and has moments of hope despite the fascinating yet unpredictable world of wealth and power.
This book is just as exciting an entertaining as the first, bringing more unexpected twists and introducing new and intriguing characters. Hidden secrets threaten to be exposed as Julia’s fragile life is put on display. While the book reveals some answers, plenty of questions replace them and deepen the mystery of Julia’s story.
The Charactes: Lord Pierson, Lord Dalry, Mr. Macy, Mr. Forrester, and Edward are all compelling and complex characters. They all leapt off the pages: the good ones, the villains, and the ones you can’t quite figure out. There is so much I want to say, yet it would spoil it for readers, so let’s just leave it at I WANT MORE. Is the third book really not coming out until next year? Because I don’t know if I can wait that long....more
Ten minutes early to work? I read. Lunch break? I read. Brushing my teeth before bed? I read. I was captivated by this novel.
This is JessiWOW WOW WOW
Ten minutes early to work? I read. Lunch break? I read. Brushing my teeth before bed? I read. I was captivated by this novel.
This is Jessica Dotta’s debut novel, and if it is any indication of what her writing career will bring, I am very much excited. She is a skilled writer who kept me glued to the pages the entire length of the novel. I was completely wrapped up in it.
Julia Elliston narrates the troublesome time in her life following the death of her parents. She has an unknown guardian sending her away, but in the two months she has before her departure, she seeks to attain her future. From there, things get crazy. Crazy awesome.
The eerie atmosphere of this book coupled with the mystery and intrigue that fills each page creates an exciting read. Because this book is written from Julia’s point of view, we only see and feel what she feels. Thus, her confusion and uncertainty make the reader feel her emotions and fear in the midst of all that is going on around her. As Julia tries to navigate her rapidly changing life, she makes misguided decisions that further entangle and complicate her predicament.
And the characters! Edward. Mr. Macy. These two men couldn’t be more different. Edward is kind, honorable, and self-sacrificing. Mr. Macy is all charm, yet there is a sinister, dangerous man lurking beneath his well-constructed exterior. Will Julia fall for this untouchable man, or be led back to the safety of her childhood love? Does she even know her own heart? And how will the things Julia does not know affect her life?
So many shocking moments are in this book. I was continually surprised by unexpected twists and turns that I had not anticipated, which made this read very enjoyable.
Yes, it ends on a cliffhanger. And I have SO MANY QUESTIONS. Mainly, WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? I must find out!
When I started reading this book, I was unprepared for the depth of emotion I was about to experience. It is a poignant story of pain, beauty, and faiWhen I started reading this book, I was unprepared for the depth of emotion I was about to experience. It is a poignant story of pain, beauty, and faith. One that intricately weaves the lives of two women in two different time periods who are forever connected by one painting.
Kristy Cambron’s stunning debut novel, The Butterfly and the Violin, explores the power of art and beauty. How, even in the midst of darkness, the light of beauty can not be hidden or ignored.
In present day, Sera James is the owner of an art gallery in Manhattan. Chasing the alluring painting of Adele has consumed her life for two years. Will the answers she’s seeking about this elusive painting heal her scars and break down the walls she has built around her heart?
This novel beautifully juxtaposed the horrors of the Holocaust with the art that brought hope to the prisoners who created it. The faith element of this story was delicately woven in and is touching to experience. I don’t often get emotional when reading novels, but this one was special in that way. It spoke to me and has made its way deep into my heart.
Adele and Vladimir had so many precious moments and beautiful little nuances in their relationship. The glimpses into their blossoming love story are precious and meaningful.
Sera and William also had their own little moments that were beautiful in their vulnerability. The uncertainties and questions they face have the potential to either open their hearts to trust one another or close their hearts out of fear of letting someone in.
This story is a soft whisper. It touches the heart with honesty and sheds light on the brutality of the Holocaust. It is difficult and heartbreaking to read about the horrific events that happened at Auschwitz. Yet, in the midst of that awful place, people struggled, fought, and desired to live. They expressed their hearts by continuing to create the art that was within them. They did not give up, even though they felt they could not go on. They survived because they wanted to live. This story inspires hope.
*I am on Kristy Cambron’s launch team. Thank you to the author and publisher for sending me a complimentary copy of the book for my honest review.*...more
Elizabeth’s life is wrapped up in food, but that is about to change. The life she left behind 15 years ago has come back to invade her comfortable lifElizabeth’s life is wrapped up in food, but that is about to change. The life she left behind 15 years ago has come back to invade her comfortable life- her sister has cancer. With a restaurant she loves but is losing passion for, Elizabeth decides to go home. As she learns how to be a sister to Jane, will her passion for food and life return? And, more importantly, will Lizzy and Jane ever learn how to connect with each other despite their differences?
I love that Katherine writes about difficult topics. Cancer is a real struggle, a burden for many. We are all touched by cancer, whether it is a close family member or a friend, which makes this book all the more powerful and poignant.
I would be remiss if I failed to mention Nick, the love interest in Lizzy and Jane. I enjoyed his character, especially his unwavering, steadfast presence in Lizzy’s life as she tries to navigate all the uncertainty she experiences. While the focus is on the sisters, Nick is the character who balances the heaviness of the story with the excitement of a fragile and sometimes uncertain love.
Do you see food as a way to be relational with your friends and family? Do you have a sibling who you deeply love yet have a difficult time understanding? Do you know someone who is dealing with cancer?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, I urge you to read this book. It is full of heart and will take you on a deeply emotional journey.
I received an ARC copy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest review. This is my honest opinion....more
"Every brick laid in the foundation of a life, however meaningfully or haphazardly placed, sI love this book more every time I read it.
My 2014 review:
"Every brick laid in the foundation of a life, however meaningfully or haphazardly placed, shaped the whole" (156).
Eleanor Braddock is nearly 30 and has little prospect for a husband, but she doesn’t mind. Her dream is to own a restaurant and cook wonderfully delicious food.
Marcus Geoffrey, errr… should I say Archduke Marcus Gottfried, is hiding his royal Austrian heritage as he is determined to make a name for himself in his personal endeavors. He has a passion for botany and architecture that he is eager to see come to fruition.
Marcus and Eleanor slowly get to know one another, and their friendship blossoms on the pages. They truly know one another, as they share their hopes, dreams, and passions with each other. Their friendship becomes an important part of each of their lives as they begin to spend more and more time together and eventually see their dreams take a new path—one that is better than either of them had ever imagined.
As the characters grow and relationships develop, I was completely enthralled. Not only were the main characters completely realistic, I also thought the supporting characters were equally believable and added a extra layer of depth to the story.
A Beauty So Rare quietly unfolds and immerses you in a time and place that is entirely real as it comes to life. Tamera Alexander has a beautiful way with words, and she pulls you in to the story.
Beautiful. Enchanting. Lyrical. A completely wonderful and utterly satisfying read....more
Absolutely loved this book. Fascinating characters, an intricate plot, and a setting full of history that comes alive make for a memorable story. TamaAbsolutely loved this book. Fascinating characters, an intricate plot, and a setting full of history that comes alive make for a memorable story. Tamara Alexander has written a beautiful story that touches the heart and lingers in your thoughts.
My 2014 review:
Why have I waited this long to read a Tamera Alexander book? I completely loved it and I can't wait to get my hands on another one of her books! Ms. Alexander has a beautiful writing style that captured me. She is able to paint a picture with her beautiful words, just as the main character, Claire, paints pictures on canvas. Her writing is rich and layered, which made my reading experience truly enjoyable. From the setting, to the history, to the plot and characterization, Tamera Alexander has written a book that has lingered in my thoughts over the last few days.
Claire Laurent is desperately trying to leave the past behind. It is made up of bad memories and she wants to start fresh with her life. But her secret always seems to be lurking around the corner. Sutton Monroe has lost a lot in recent years, and the pain of it all threatens to make him bitter. But Claire breaths new life into his world. As Claire and Sutton get to know one another, will they be able to share a life together and move forward? Or will the past tear them apart?
This story shows that the past does not define you, nor should you let it. Rather, let God define who you are. The journey that Claire goes on in this book is one of redemption and forgiveness, as she learns from her mistakes and grows into a beautiful woman, both on the inside and the outside.
One last thing I wanted to discuss: Mrs. Adelicia Acklen. In one word, I would describeher as enigmatic. She intrigued me throughout the novel. She is a prominent woman who is confident and expects the best from the people around her. She is direct and honest, and never shies away from speaking her thoughts. Yet, she is also a loving woman who cares deeply for her children and loved ones. And as you discover the pain of her past, you symapthize with her and discover her heart. A beautiful character that I very much enjoyed reading about....more
“Changing, being real and becoming who you want to be, is hard work” (200).
Ok, I admit it. I was skeptical about this book. A novel made up completely“Changing, being real and becoming who you want to be, is hard work” (200).
Ok, I admit it. I was skeptical about this book. A novel made up completely of letters? It’s not really my thing. But, let me tell you, I was so wrong. I completely LOVED this book.
There is so much I want to say about this book, but I want to focus on Sam’s character growth. I think she had a remarkable journey. We meet her as a lonely, isolated young woman who has trouble making connections with other people. Due to growing up in the foster care system and living a difficult life, she hides in books and finds it hard to open up to other people. But she does just that- Sam learns to open her heart and let people in, albeit is a slow process.
As Samantha makes her way through grad school and all the struggles that come with it, she makes an honest effort to learn how to share her life with others. Of course, she faces several setbacks when she feels uncomfortable sharing and retreats to her safe place, in books. These mistakes sway her on the path to letting people in, but she slowly becomes surer of herself and learns that relationships are hard work, but they are worth it.
What I loved about Samantha is that she is such a relatable character. She not only struggles to find her own voice and who she is, but she is also searching for the place where she belongs. This is a universal struggle that we all face at one time or another in our lives, and that is exactly what makes her so relatable.
Along the way, we see Sam’s journey of growth through the letters she writes to Mr. Knightley, all the while, wondering, who exactly is this man who knows Sam’s innermost thoughts? Will his identity ever be discovered? And how will his identity affect Sam?
Debut author, Katherine Reay, has written a beautiful story full of warmth that will keep you turning the pages to see if Samantha Moore will rise to the occasion and succeed, despite the odds. Can Samantha find a way to open her heart and find her own voice?
I can’t wait to read Katherine Reay’s next book, Lizzy and Jane!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”...more
Kay is an emotionally wounded woman, whose family left scars that are hard to cover. The image she has chosen to let people see is how she stays in coKay is an emotionally wounded woman, whose family left scars that are hard to cover. The image she has chosen to let people see is how she stays in control, and she dares to embrace the person her family has condemned her to be. But underneath, what hurt is Kay hiding?
Lt. Roger Cooper is the one man who is not blinded by Kay’s flirtatious behavior and coy smiles. Instead, God prompts him to be a friend to Kay, to be a guiding light and encourage her. His past gives him the ability to see her differently, understand her struggle, and see her as someone God loves and doesn’t condemn.
I absolutely love the spiritual thread and the theme of redemption as Sarah portrayed it in In Perfect Time. These characters struggle with not being good enough. Not being worthy of the blessings God has for them. But that is exactly the point. We aren’t good enough. We don’t deserve the gifts God blesses us with. But God blesses us because He loves us. Because He is good.
This novel is definitely worth reading. One of my favorites of the year!
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. Thank you, Revell!*...more
SO GOOD! Review to come- favorite book so far this year.
Two words: NEW FAVORITE!!
I absolutely loved this book. Lori has a lyrical writing style that sSO GOOD! Review to come- favorite book so far this year.
Two words: NEW FAVORITE!!
I absolutely loved this book. Lori has a lyrical writing style that sweeps you into another time and place in history. Her characters are layered and complex. Her themes are woven throughout the book and tell a powerful message. And the plot and setting are riveting. The story is constantly moving forward, which made me eager to turn the pages.
Raised to be a proper lady, Tamsen Littlejohn is the example of gentility. However, her stepfather forces her to obey his wishes for her future. In an act of courage, she escapes from her cruel stepfather when an opportunity to flee presents itself.
That opportunity comes in the form of Jesse Bird, a white man who was raised by the Shawnee. Jesse Bird is a man of integrity. He keeps his word and protects Tamsen from the life she is running from. As Tamsen Littlejohn and Jesse Bird run from their pursuers, they are faced with challenges that they could not have anticipated.
Lori threads her stories with so many tidbits that can easily be lost along the way. However, she has the uncanny ability to bring her story full circle, tying up all the loose ends, and leaving her readers satisfied with a story well told.
Lori’s writing reminds me of Laura Frantz, which is awesome, as I love both these authors! So, if you are a lover of frontier fiction, or have read Laura Frantz before, or just want to meet a new author that is fabulous, pick up this novel! I promise you won’t regret it!
I am on Lori Benton’s influencer team and received a free copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review....more
WOW! I completely loved this book. It is such a good read.
I was completely immersed in the plot, the characters, and the history that was packed into WOW! I completely loved this book. It is such a good read.
I was completely immersed in the plot, the characters, and the history that was packed into this novel. This book is beautifully written.
Susanna Smith is a compassionate and independent woman. She has a love for education and reading, but she has limited access to learning. Benjamin Ross is a poor lawyer who has a passion for speaking the truth and standing for justice. He desires to prove himself and do something important with his life.
Susanna believes in following the law and respecting authority. But, when she meets a runaway indentured servant, her beliefs are thrown into disarray. She struggles between following the law and having compassion for this woman. Will she break the law in the name of doing what is right? And will Ben’s influence on her be good or bad?
In a past encounter when they were children, Susanna made a hurtful and cutting remark to Ben that has been etched in both their memories. This provides for quite an interesting and amusing first interaction in the book, when, as adults, their lives intersect again. Ben wants to push Susanna’s buttons and see how she will react to him now that they are adults. From this scene, it is immediately apparent that Susanna and Ben will have dynamic interactions throughout the book.
I think this quote is the most perfect way to describe Ben, and also what it is like to read his and Susanna’s scenes together:
“He was infuriating and intriguing and altogether likable at the same time” (63).
Ben and Susanna’s relationship was my favorite part of this book. It was always exciting and entertaining to read their scenes together, whether they were arguing, discussing important topics, or becoming close friends. I completely loved them together and they had a chemistry that jumped off the page. Their time together was always filled with intelligent conversation, romance, and tension.
In their relationship, Ben and Susanna challenged each other, and through their conversations, they were able to sharpen each other and make each other better. It reminded me of this verse:
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17, NIV
This seriously has to be one of my favorite literary couples. Their chemistry and the tension between them provided for a dynamic relationship.
A wonderful book- I loved it. One of my favorites of the year and I can’t wait to read it again.
*I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.*...more