The Thorn Healer by Pepper D. Basham ~ Review

My Review:

The scars of war run deep. Nurse Jessica Ross returns to her hometown to find that not only has it become home to a camp of displaced Germans, but that one of them is her grandfather's assistant. Scarred from what she saw and experienced alongside her brother, David, Jessica is bitter against the people that took so much from her. But when her widowed childhood friend dies in child birth, leaving her children Faith and Jude in Jessica's care, she wonders if she will be able to step up to the demands of motherhood.

August Reinhold has fallen in love with Jessica Ross through the letters that she has faithfully sent home to her grandparents. He admires her strength and compassion. He knows that despite her coldness towards him and his German heritage, she is the still the same woman from the letters on the inside, and he is determined to win her heart.

The third book the series, but don't let that stop you, it stands well on its own. I liked that it told the story of coming home from the front from a woman's perspective, as Jessica deals with coming home and finding that home is not how she left it. I loved seeing her grow in her faith, and as person in love and grace as she becomes a mother to Jude and Faith.

People are not all as they seem, and there is a trouble maker framing the displaced Germans, making the townsfolk uneasy that a plot may be afoot. And Jessica finds two men vying for her attentions.

I also loved August's sister, Anna and her daughter Sylvie. Anna is a strong woman, who despite everything is full of hope, and strong sensibility. Cliff is Jessica's cousin, who is like a brother to her. He is kind, and open-hearted.

I liked August's determination and faith, he is an honorable man to the core of his being and he is passionate about what he sets his mind to. He quickly befriends Jessica's new children, but time is quickly running as his time at the camp is drawing to an end.

A well written and characterized read. I loved Jessica and her journey of faith and forgiveness, as she finds herself in a very different position from the one she was in a few months ago, facing the remnants of the battles fought over seas at home. She is a strong woman, who doesn't always like change but finds ways to adjust. There is mystery and suspense as she and August try to prove who is behind the attacks against the Germans. I also really liked the story between Cliff and Anna, as well as getting to see Catherine and David and their young daughter again. A fast paced and engaging romance, filled with tension and faith.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

Unwritten Melody by Tessa Emily Hall ~ Blog Tour, Giveaway, and Review

Today I have a special post to share with you, I had the privilege to review Tessa Emily Hall's newest book Unwritten Melody, and I'm so excited to share it with you. Also be sure to check out the giveaway opportunity at the end of this post!

About the Book: Does breaking free require breaking the rules?

Cassie Gilbert lives every day in the shadows of her deceased mom’s rebellion.But now that she’s seventeen, she finds herself longing to break away from her grandmother’s suffocating rules, experience what it’s like to be a regular teenager, and fulfill her songwriting dreams.

James Russo, former American Spotlight contestant, escapes to small town Willow Creek, SC hoping to flee from his tarnished past. When a school project pairs him with the shy principal’s granddaughter, he’s determined to get to know this Emily-Dickinson- obsessed and typewriter-using girl. His plan? Convince Cassie to co-write songs for his demo album.

As Cassie gets to know James over “project meetings” (more like opportunities to match her lyrics with his melodies), she becomes intrigued by his sense of adventure and contagious passion for music. But soon, his past becomes exposed. Cassie’s left to wonder—did she make the same mistake Mom did by falling for the bad boy?

Then, Grandma’s control pushes her over the edge. Cassie must choose between remaining in the chains of yesterday, or delving into her own freedom by completing the melody her mom left behind.

Where to find Unwritten Melody:

Goodreads
Amazon
Barnes and Noble


My Review:

Cassie Gilbert longs for freedom, and she finds a refuge in words, poetry and lyrics to songs. She lives a sheltered life with her grandparents, attending a small private Christian school where her grandmother is also the principal. Cassie's life is tightly managed by her grandmother, who only allows her to hang out with her best friend, Shelby, and her cousin, Dakota, and doesn't want her to make the mistakes that her mother did.

When teen singer/songwriter James Russo comes to their small school, Cassie finds herself paired with him for an English assignment, to write a song using the words of Emily Dickinson. Though they are different, James and Cassie find in each other kindred spirits, both hurting from the pain of their pasts.

James has never met anyone like Cassie, he is amazed by her ability to capture emotions infused with hope. He has been struggling to put together his first album, and whether or not he should pursue a music career or be practical an go to school and get a job. Cassie has him rethinking everything, will they be able to help each other find hope?

Told from alternating perspectives this book follows the unlikely friendship between Cassie and James. I liked both of them immediately, and it was easy to see that while most people wouldn't put them together, they were both on the similar journeys of the heart, and were true friends there when the other needed them the most.

Cassie struggles to love her grandmother, who holds her to strict rules and curfews, and she often wonders if she is a burden to her grandparents. I liked the relationship that Cassie shared with her grandfather, whom she called "Dad," he is soft where her grandmother is hard and encourages Cassie to spread her wings and to know the truth. Cassie doesn't wear her feelings on her sleeve, but writes them down with her treasured typewriter, expressing them through prose and lyrics.

James found fame on a singing competition reality show, but he is still dealing with the demons of his past. I liked how he reaches out to Cassie and makes an effort to really get to know her, he is understanding and is amazed to find someone who understands him in return. James is a likable young man on the inside and out, he knows that he has made mistakes, but he tries to do better.

Overall, a heartfelt read, engaging with magnetic characters that had me glued to the page. Well written in a riveting style that drew me to Cassie and James, I enjoyed every moment of this book. Full of hope, this is a heartfelt read that explores the hurts and pain of humanity, as well as the hope that comes from beyond. Highly recommend.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

Enter for your chance to win the Unwritten Melody Prize Pack! Two winners

will be selected and announced on Tessa’s blog the final day of tour (Friday,

December 9 th ) and will be notified via email.

This prize pack includes…

•  E-copy of Unwritten Melody
•  Signed paperback copy of Purple Moon
•  Unwritten Melody mug, filled with goodies
• Unwritten Melody swag, including a bookmark, pen, and poster
•  Starbucks mocha flavored instant coffee
• Free Unwritten Melody: Page-By- Page Secrets PDF
• Handmade journal
• Typewritten thank you note

*This giveaway is open to the US only

To enter the giveaway follow the link to the rafflecopter:  https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b814e64b20/

Tessa Emily Hall

About the Author: Tessa Emily Hall writes inspirational yet authentic YA fiction to show others
they’re not alone—and because she remembers the teen life like it was yesterday (or a few years ago). The debut novel she wrote at 16-years- old, PURPLE MOON (Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas) was a Selah 2014 Finalist. Her second novel, UNWRITTEN MELODY, releases with Clean Reads November 2016. She’s the Founder of PursueMagazine.net, a magazine that inspires teens to embrace their calling. Tessa also enjoys helping writers achieve their dreams through her
internship at Hartline Literary Agency.

When her fingers aren’t flying 116 WPM across the keyboard, Tessa can be found making healthy homemade lattes, speaking to teens, decorating her insulin pump, and acting in Christian films. She writes in a small town nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Southeastern coast. Her favorite way to procrastinate is by connecting with readers on her blog, mailing list, social media
(@tessaemilyhall), and website.

• Website: www.tessaemilyhall.com
• Amazon Author Page: http://amzn.to/2ef5bu1
•  Blog: www.ChristisWrite.blogspot.com
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/tessaemilyhall
• Facebook page: www.facebook.com/tessaemilyhall
•  Instagram: www.instagram.com/tessaemilyhall
•  Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/tessaemilyhall

Follow the Blog Tour:

Tues., November 1 – Christ is Write

Wed., November 2 - Adriana Gabrielle Writes

Thurs., November 3 – The Depth of My Faith

Fri., November 4 - Sarah Ruut

Mon., November 7 – God is Love

Tues., November 8 – The Bibliophile Angel

Wed., November 9 - Emily Rachelle Writes

Thurs, November 10 – Word Changers For His Glory

Fri., November 11 – Christian Teen Book Reviews

Mon., November 14 – Phyllis Still

Tues., November 15 – In The Bookcase

Wed., November 16 – Girl Meets Publishing World

Thurs., November 17 - Anna Schaeffer

Fri., November 18 – Ramblings of a Writer

Mon., November 21 - Naomi and Books

Tues., November 22 – Reading is My Superpower

Wed., November 23 – Zerina Blossom’s Books

Thurs., November 24 - Jennifer Slattery Lives Out Loud

Fri., November 25 – Labor Not in Vain

Mon., November 28 - Barbara Bruitt

Tues., November 29 - Katy Kauffman

Wed., November 30 – Jen Pheobus

Thurs., December 1 – Northern Belle Meg

Fri., December 2 – 2Me From Him

Mon., December 5 - Nicole Quigley

Tues., December 6 – The Destiny of One

Wed., December 7 - Catherine Castle

Thurs., December 8 - Rachelle Rea Cobb

Fri., December 9 – Leslie L. Mckee

The Berenstain Bears Love One Another by Mike Berenstain ~ Review

My Review:

Brother, Sister, and Honey are helping Mama Bear make berry muffins. When they ask if they can eat them Mama tells them that the muffins aren't for them, but for a new mother, and that there are many ways to show our love for one another.

A sturdy board book, about what it is to love one another, with the Bear family. I think one of my favorite thing about this book, is that it showed that small acts of loving kindness can go a long way in showing hoe much you care, it doesn't have to be huge showy acts.

A classic story that is great for sharing with children, about being helpful and showing love to each other. Makes a great gift to share with the young ones in your life.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

Reunited at Christmas by Belle Calhoune ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Ruby Prescott comes to Love, Alaska looking for answers. She lost her memory in an accident 2 years ago, she's been living in Colorado for the past couple of years, but nobody there knew her before the injury.

The first person that Ruby sees in Love is the sheriff, who also happens to be her brother-in-law. He immediately calls his brother, Dr. Liam Prescott, who rushes over. Ruby learns that her family thought that she had died in the avalanche that took her memory during a search and rescue mission in Colorado.

After he get's over his shock, Liam asks Ruby to stay and get to know their son, Aidan, who was a toddler when she disappeared. Will they be able to be a family again?

I love how Liam is willing to go the distance and to do what he can to make Ruby feel at home, and doesn't pressure her to remember him. He gives her space, but is always there and is happy to see her reconnecting with their son. Liam is a good doctor, and genuinely cares for his patients, and famil y is very important to him.

Ruby is a strong, brave and compassionate woman, even if she doesn't always see herself that way. I liked how the town worked to make her feel welcome, even though she didn't remember them, they didn't make her feel bad about it.

This is a wonderful read set in the beautiful town of Love, Alaska. I loved the characters, especially Liam and Aiden, and how they welcome Ruby back into their lives with open arms. This is a beautiful story of second chances at love in time for Christmas.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

Newton and Polly by Jody Hedlund ~ Review

My Review: 


John Newton is smitten when he hears the angelic voice of Polly Catlett caroling with her cousin Susanna. He follows her home and discovers that he is her cousin, despite having a job lined up on a ship destined for Jamaica, he lingers with the Catletts, each day making it harder to leave Polly behind him. John is reckless and godless, with very little motivation to work and make something of himself--constantly dismissing opportunities for career advancement.

But when John finds himself impressed into service upon a Navy vessel, he begins an arduous journey that will change his life forever.

A inspiring and passionate tale of a prodigal's flight from God, his redemption, and the woman who loved him. Before reading this book I'd never really heard much about Polly Catlett, besides the fact that John Newton was a married man and that she was his wife. Oh, how little I knew! I was riveted by this passionate tale of redemption and enduring love, and Amazing Grace.

Polly is a beautiful young woman inside and out, with a kind heart, and a bent for following rules to the letter. When impulsive and reckless John comes into her life, she is drawn to him, and finds him unlike anyone she has ever known before. When her father urges her to give John up, do to his lacking character, she struggles to obey her father, but finds that John is a man hard to forget.

John Newton is irresponsible and careless, letting important deadlines pass without more than passing acknowledgement. He has a chip on his shoulder, and a bent for undermining authority. He challenges those around him with his contemptible attitude and godless ways.

I liked that this book didn't shy away from the gritty truth about the things that John was involved in, and I thought that Ms. Hedlund captured his youthful, disregard for authority and responsibility well. I loved seeing how in hindsight, so many of the experiences in his life set the stage for future blessings.

Overall, a riveting, gripping read that took my heart on a roller coaster of emotions. A tumultuous and dramatic tale of redemption and God's boundless grace. Highly recommend!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill by Julie Klassen ~ Review

Lucie's Review: This book brings to life a small village in England, full of colorful characters whose lives intersect and intertwine.

Upon the death of her husband, Jane becomes the owner of the local inn. When she realizes how many people depend on the inn, she becomes determined to do what she can to keep it open.

Jane's friend, Mercy, runs a school for girls alongside her aunt, and she encourages Jane to save the inn herself instead of selling it. She invites Jane to the Ladies Tea and Knitting Society, which is a meeting of all the local business women.

This book has many characters, and many storylines  to follow about the women in the village, and it reminded me a lot of Cranford by Elizabeth Gaskell. This book tells the story of a historical English village through the eyes of the women who live there. It takes a while to figure out who everyone is at first, but is lush with detail description and great dialog.

I loved the relationship between Jane and Thora, who is Jane's mother-in-law, and how it grows and changes over the course of the book. Thora returns from living with her sister, to find the inn in trouble, due in part to the fact that Talbot has left.

Talbot was the manager of the inn, but he left when he inherited his family's farm. But he is more than happy to lend a hand t help them out, especially since he has admired Thora since the death of her husband.

James Drake becomes Jane's rival, he stays at the inn and offers advice on how to improve the inn before acquiring her childhood home and opening a rival inn. Suddenly the two inns are competing for the Royal Mail route.

Gabriel Locke has more to him than what meets the eye, he is works with the horses that stay at the inn. but proves to be a good friend helping Jane where he can, as does Sir Timothy, Jane's childhood friend.

I loved the real sense of community that I got from reading this book, and the wonderful women and men that make up this town. Decidedly different in tone than previous books by this author that I had enjoyed, and at first I was definitely unsure, but by the end I realized that I had thoroughly enjoyed this read.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

Cowboy Creek Christmas by Cheryl St. John and Sherri Shackleford ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Mistletoe Reunion Marlys Boyd has worked hard to put herself through medical school, yet she struggles to find patients at her Philadelphia practice, so she moves home to Cowboy Creek and places an ad in the paper.

Sam Mason was a reporter in Philadelphia before serving in the War Between the States, he wrote a book about his experiences. But he came back to Cowboy Creek for a new start, and bought the local paper.

I like the reunion between Marlys and Sam as they become acquainted again. Marlys always makes a point of not ignoring August, Sam's 8 year old son, and encouraging his love of learning.

Marlys has a love of learning, and is open to finding new solutions, that serve her well as a Doctor.

Mistletoe Bride Colton Werner reluctantly agrees to help interpret for the midwife, with one of her patients that speaks German. He remembers enough to find out that her name is Beatrix Haas, and she came to town to marry the sheriff, who has been recently deceased. The labor is difficult and Beatrix fears for the fate of her child, so Colton volunteers to marry Beatrix in name only to care for her child, that he names Joseph after his deceased twin brother. But when she recovers, Colton is faced with an interesting dilemma, married and the father of a newborn.

Beatrix wants to be a good wife to Colton, she tries to get close to him, and is thrifty with his money. But Colton seems to have a wall around his heart.

I like how the town welcomes Beatrix and include her in their activities.

Colton does his best to show Beatrix that she is safe and that he would never hurt her or Joseph.


Two fantastic stories of love and family at Christmas time in Cowboy Creek.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

Wild Montana Skies by Susan May Warren ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Kacey Fairing flies helicopters in rescue missions for the military, but her plane was shot down in Afghanistan and now she's home for the Summer hoping to leave the nightmares of war behind. She get's a job flying a rescue helicopter for PEAK Rescue pilot Chet King who has been injured and needs an interim replacement. But what she doesn't know is that her old flame, Country Music start Ben King is home to care for his father.

Ben King is a Country singer who got his start singing the songs that he wrote for Kacey back in highschool, going on to become part of a duo. But now his partner, Hollie has gone solo, and he has to reconfigure his career.

Will Kacey and Ben find a new beginning?

I liked the interaction between Kacey and Ben, they both acknowledge that they made mistakes in that past and want to move forward. Ben is surprised to learn about Kacey's 13 year old daughter, Audrey, who is a big fan of his previous Country duo. He wants to get to know Audrey, and wants to makes sure that letting her know him as her father is the right thing. Kacey and Ben make a good team, and they work hard to put together the clues to find the missing niece of Ian Shaw, Esme, who disappeared 3 years ago.

I loved Chet, he is a man of faith, who gives good advice and isn't above a little matchmaking. He is an impatient patient, but his heart is right on track.

This is a riveting, heartwarming read, with colorful characters, and lively dialog. I loved the drama and suspense, entwined with the strong vein of redemption that runs through the story. A fantastic read from beginning to end and I can't wait to read the next in the series.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

Shielding His Christmas Witness by Laura Scott ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

The safe house that Kari Danville has been staying at becomes compromised, sending her running for her life. Every person in uniform is a suspect, so FBI agent Marc Callahan must go off the grid to keep Kari safe.

Marc and Kari don't know where to turn or who to trust, so he called up his brothers, Mike, Mitch, and Miles who do what they can for Kari without asking questions. I liked how dedicated to his job that Marc is, he is good at what he does, though he can be very serious and rarely smiles. He comes to admire Kari for everything that she has been through, and she helps him come to terms with his past.

Kari is a brave, resourceful, quick-thinking woman, new to her faith, and pregnant with her ex-fiance's child.  I admired her faith, though new, was strong. She is in danger, because she was a key witness to a crime.

The interaction between Kari and Marc was well done, and in the midst of all the uncertainty they come to trust and depend upon each other. For Marc being with Kari has showed him how taxing his job has been, and that he wants to start really living again.

A highly engaging read, filled with action, that kept me guessing who was behind the threats until the very end. Great dialog with fantastic characters, and I loved getting to meet Marc's brothers. A fantastic read that I didn't want to put down!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

A Convenient Christmas Wedding by Regina Scott ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Nora Underhill was raised by her brother, Charles, and his wife, Meredith, who don't let a moment go by that they don't remind her of that fact, and how much she owes them for taking her in. Nora finally escapes her manipulative brother by joining Asa Mercer's bride ship to Seattle to marry Simon Wallin.

Nora proposes to Simon, in exchange for his name, and protection, she will continue to work in Seattle, and he can return to Wallins Landing, claiming more land as a married man. But when Charles and Meredith arrive and insist that Nora stay with them, Nora changes her plans and moves to
Wallins Landing, which puts Simon in a bind as he has yet to tell his family about his marriage.

Simon is a good hardworking man, I loved how his family welcomed Nora into their lives. Simon takes his duty seriously, and is very detail oriented, which often leads him to focus on problems instead of finding solutions right away.

Nora is my favorite character, industrious, tender-hearted, and always ready to lend a hand. Her faith is strong and shes God's glory in all of creation.

I really liked the dialog between Nora and Simon, they always treat each other with respect and come to recognize the other's strengths, and that they are better together.

I loved the strong themes of family and Christmas traditions throughout this story, Simon's family si very supportive of his marriage, and I loved the dialog and humorous situations. This was a fast-paced and engaging read that I didn't want to put down. Highly enjoyable read!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

Amish Christmas Blessings by Marta Perry and Jo Ann Brown ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

The Midwife's Christmas Surprise
Anna Zook has learned a lot from Elizabeth Miller about being a midwife, and now they share a clinic, but Anna worries that the ladies of the community will never take her seriously as a midwife.

 Elizabeth tries to encourage her, and does what she can to help her confidence. When Elizabeth's son Benjamin comes home after three years away, she welcomes him warmly and tries to play matchmaker by finding excuses for him to spend time with Anna.

Ben's return is not without plenty of challenges, he must overcome the resentment that same with his leaving in the first place. He works hard to prove that he has changed and that he's in it for the long haul. I liked his and Anna's dialog as they come to terms with what happened in the past and become reacquainted. Ben has a way of knowing just when Anna needs a hand, and he shows up just in time.

Overall, a sweet tale of Christmastime second chances at love, and mending family ties. I liked how Ben makes an intention choice to prove himself to everyone back home, and to heal old wounds.



A Christmas to Remember
When Amos Stoltzfus finds a young girl named Polly trying to steal bread from his shop, he gives it to her along with some peanut butter, and follows her home. He discovers that her companion, Linda, is not well, so he offers a hand, taking them to stay with his mother.

Linda is recovering from a head injury and memory loss, and finds it easy to be discouraged. Amos helps to cheer her up, but wonders about the wisdom of falling for a woman who doesn't even know herself what kind of woman she is.

I liked Linda, and her faith, she knows that God will reveal His will in His own time. And even though she doesn't remember everything, there are things that shine though, showing her genuine character.

I liked Amos, he is a kind man, who takes action when he sees a need.

Overall, a heartwarming love story of family and making memories at Christmastime.





Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

A Spy's Devotion by Melanie Dickerson ~ Review

My Review:

Julia Grey has few prospects, as the orphaned poor relation who is living with her uncle and aunt she has little to offer as a dowry. Julia hopes to make a good match despite her financial shortcomings, so that she can avoid becoming a governess like her friend Sarah Peck. Julia attends the local parties as a companion to her flighty cousin Phoebe, who is titled, moneyed, and smitten with the dashing Nicholas Langdon.

Nicholas Langdon is on a mission for king and country, tasked with flushing out those trading confidential information with the French, and endangering the English crown. He has reason to believe that Mr. Wilhern, Julia’s uncle, is one of the traitors, all Nicholas needs is the final piece of evidence that will confirm his suspicions.

Melanie Dickerson’s signature themes of adventure, faith, honor, and abiding love, run strong in her regency fiction debut, but she doesn’t leave her fairy tale roots behind either. A compelling and riveting read the entire way through, filled with hope, faith, and love. 

 I felt for Julia and her less than ideal situation, though more fortunate than most, she struggled to reconcile herself to her lot in life, trying to follow the laws of society to the letter. Julia is an exemplary friend to her cousin, Phoebe, and tries to guide and shield her as best she can, offering support and sound advice. I admired Julia’s determination and bravery to do what was right in the face of an uncertain future, as well as her compassionate spirit.

Nicholas Langdon is a admirable man, strong, honor and duty bound, he is also intentional and he is very aware of his actions.He is kind and compassionate, genuinely charming, and impossible not to admire for his faith and sense of duty.

Overall, a riveting read that blended a well curated atmosphere with an Austen-esque romance, and a thrilling suspenseful plot. Julia matures quite a bit over the course of the story, coming to terms with her situation, and taking a stand for what is right despite the consequences A fantastic read, that I would highly recommend to fans of regency fiction and/or fans of Ms. Dickerson. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."