MY REVIEW:
Recently I have had the pleasure of reading several Christian novels with the Gothic romance style I loved so much when I was younger and before I discovered Christian fiction. In my opinion this genre has been rather sparse in Christian fiction until just lately and I am so happy to once again indulge in a bit of deliciously dark reading with no fear of encountering offensive material. “Mist of Midnight” fits perfectly into that category and in my opinion Sandra Byrd has nailed it.
What could be worse than returning home from the mission field of India, alone in the world after barely escaping with your life and witnessing unspeakable horrors? What if you found that home was no longer your home because an imposter had taken your place before dying and leaving everyone to believe that you are actually the imposter? That is the position Rebecca Ravenshaw found herself in and her prospects did not look at all promising. Fortunately her distant relative, Captain Luke Whitfield who had inherited everything, took pity on her and allowed her to live at Headbourne House until pertinent questions were resolved to his satisfaction.
The plot moved along at the perfect pace for a novel of this type with an appropriately dark and brooding atmosphere. Mysterious and dangerous events as well ambiguous characters who were difficult to pin down kept me invested in the story until its end. Quite a few surprises were in store along the way but I was happy with its conclusion. I particularly liked how the author adeptly wove an uncompromised message of faith into the narrative without having it overwhelm the story.
I enjoyed “Mist of Midnight” very much and look forward to “Bride of Poseidon” and “Angels of Light”, future installments of the Daughters of Hampshire series. They cannot be published soon enough for me!
This book was provided for review by the author and Howard Books.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In the first of a brand-new series set in Victorian England, a young woman returns home from India after the death of her family to discover her identity and inheritance are challenged by the man who holds her future in his hands.
Rebecca Ravenshaw, daughter of missionaries, spent most of her life in India. Following the death of her family in the Indian Mutiny, Rebecca returns to claim her family estate in Hampshire, England. Upon her return, people are surprised to see her…and highly suspicious. Less than a year earlier, an imposter had arrived with an Indian servant and assumed not only Rebecca’s name, but her home and incomes.
That pretender died within months of her arrival; the servant fled to London as the young woman was hastily buried at midnight. The locals believe that perhaps she, Rebecca, is the real imposter. Her home and her father’s investments reverted to a distant relative, the darkly charming Captain Luke Whitfield, who quickly took over. Against her best intentions, Rebecca begins to fall in love with Luke, but she is forced to question his motives—does he love her or does he just want Headbourne House? If Luke is simply after the property, as everyone suspects, will she suffer a similar fate as the first “Rebecca”?
A captivating Gothic love story set against a backdrop of intrigue and danger, Mist of Midnight will leave you breathless.
Link to Mist of Midnight on the Simon and Schuster/Howard Books Website:
http://books.simonandschuster.com/Mist-of-Midnight/Sandra-Byrd/The-Daughters-of-Hampshire/9781476717869
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sandra Byrd is a best-selling author and has earned Library Journal’s Best Books of the year pick twice, in 2011 for To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn, and in 2012 for The Secret Keeper: A Novel of Kateryn Parr. She’s twice been a Christy Award finalist, for To Die For and for Let Them Eat Cake: A Novel. Roses Have Thorns: A Novel of Elizabeth I published April 2013
MY REVIEW:
For some reason I am unable to recall much from my high school American history classes about the Philippines during World War 2. Most of the focus seemed to be on Adolph Hitler and what little I remember about Japan’s role in the war was of course Pearl Harbor. For that reason, I found “Remember the Lilies” to be a very informative and captivating novel. A poignant tale of life and death, the narrative portrayed the strength of the human spirit, especially in those who retained their faith and dependence on the Lord in the face of virtually impossible circumstances.
The sometimes heartbreaking tale depicted life in an internment camp in the Philippines as experienced by missionary Irene Reynolds and wealthy nightclub owner Rand Sterling. Their shared experience illustrated just how quickly life can change and how no matter how rich or how poor, everyone can easily find themselves on a level playing field in times of war or disaster.
A strong plot and equally strong characters held my interest as I finished the book in one day. Irene and Rand’s relationship grew naturally with ups and downs in the midst of hardship and heartache. I like the way the author uses flowers in her novels as a symbol of hope with the lilies in this one as the reminder of God’s care for each of us. A powerful message of salvation was interwoven through the plot as well as a strong emphasis on the importance of honesty.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Remember the Lilies” and highly recommend it to those who enjoy historical fiction, especially the World War 2 era.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Can Irene and Rand stave off starvation until the American troops bring freedom?
Interred by the Japanese, missionary Irene Reynolds comes across a mysterious note while working at the censor’s office. She memorizes the parts she must black out and delivers it to wealthy nightclub owner Rand Sterling. Before she knows what’s happening, she’s drawn into a web of secrets and danger.
Rand Sterling wants nothing more than to reopen his nightclubs once the war ends. But slimy Frank Covey wants his hand in the till—and has news that could threaten Rand’s reputation if it became public. More importantly, beautiful and intriguing Irene Reynolds cannot discover this information if he expects to persuade her to become his wife.
When Irene is attacked by a sinister Japanese guard and their secrets are exposed, they must learn the true meaning of forgiveness—if they can stave off starvation until the American troops bring freedom.
Learn more and purchase a copy at Liz’s website.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
“New York Times” best-selling author Liz Tolsma is the author of “Daisies are Forever,” “Snow on the Tulips,” and the contributing author of “A Log Cabin Christmas.” When not busy putting words to paper, Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband and children, all adopted internationally.
Find out more about Liz at http://www.liztolsma.com.
Liz Tolsma’s ‘Remember the Lilies’ Author Chat Party and Kindle Giveaway
This gripping new tale from Liz Tolsma, Remember the Lilies, is a must-read for fans of WWII-era fiction. When Irene is attacked by a sinister Japanese guard and their secrets are exposed, she and Rand must learn the true meaning of forgiveness—if they can stave off starvation until the American troops bring freedom.
Help Liz celebrate the release of Remember the Lilies with a Kindle Fire giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:
MY REVIEW:
Once again Elizabeth Camden has grabbed my attention and held onto it until the very last word. “Beyond All Dreams” has everything I love in historical fiction – a story built around historical facts, realistic characters, some drama, a bit of mystery and/or danger, a touch of humor, and of course some nice romantic tension.
Both of the primary characters are thoroughly human with real flaws. Anna O’Brien has spent much of her life attempting not to attract attention because of the cruelty of fellow students after a devastating injury. Orphaned at an early age, during the course of her dream job at the Library of Congress Anna discovers errors in the official report about the disappearance of her father’s ship. Her attempts to have the error corrected are stonewalled in every direction. Luke Callahan is a promising congressman whose career has just taken a nosedive when he becomes fascinated by the feisty librarian. Although she is attracted to the persuasive congressman, Anna repels his advances repeatedly.
I enjoyed “Beyond All Dreams” very much, especially how Anna and Luke were portrayed with all their faults and strengths. I admired the honesty of Luke’s continuous struggle with his temper and fear that he would be just like his father. Anna’s determination to find the truth and to stand up for those she felt were mistreated was inspiring. Her willingness to forgive even the worst offenses against her could only come from her strong faith.
I could say much more about “Beyond All Dreams” but fear that doing so would result in spoilers. If you are a love of historical romance, “Beyond All Dreams” is a book you do not want to miss!
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they’ve ever dreamed for their futures?
Anna O’Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across the baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. Thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help.
Luke Callahan was one of the nation’s most powerful congressmen before his promising career was shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship. Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglements with members of Congress.
From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation’s finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they’ve ever dreamed for their futures?
Learn more and purchase a copy at Elizabeth’s website.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Elizabeth Camden is the author of six books and a RITA and Christy Award winner. With a master’s in history and a master’s in library science, she is a research librarian by day and scribbles away on her next novel by night. Elizabeth lives with her husband in Florida.
Find out more about Elizabeth at http://elizabethcamden.com.
Beyond All Dreams’ Kindle Fire Giveaway and Author Chat Party
Travel back in time to the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress in Elizabeth Camden’s newest release, Beyond All Dreams. From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation’s finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they’ve ever dreamed for their futures?
Elizabeth is celebrating the release of Beyond All Dreams with a Kindle giveaway and Facebook party on February 17.
One grand prize winner will receive:
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 2/17. Winner will be announced at Elizabeth’s 2/17 Beyond All Dreams Facebook author chat party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Elizabeth and historical fiction fans, as well as for the opportunity to win some great prizes!
MY REVIEW:
“Steadfast Heart” may have been Lenore and Kolbein’s story but I’m afraid Abrianna and Wade hijacked it. I did like both Lenore and Kolbein but Abrianna’s vivacity just seemed to take over. I’ll admit to reading several other reviewer’s opinions and it seemed many felt the same. Unlike some of them, I didn’t find it to be a negative thing because I know that I can look forward to probably at least two more books that will expand the characters and story before the series ends. And I do mean that I look forward to it. I am in hopes that Abrianna and Wade will discover that their friendship has grown into an even more special relationship. I also am eager to learn more about the nefarious Mr. Welby and hoping he get his comeuppance.
“Steadfast Heart” has it all – love at first sight, drama, some mystery, plenty of humor, and faith. Tracie Peterson developed her characters with her usual skill and left me wanting to read more about them. Abrianna’s aunties were so quaint and humorous to read about and I look forward to spending more time with time as the series progresses. I feel that “Steadfast Heart” may just be the intro for the rest of the series where the reader will really get into the “meat” of the story. If Brides of Seattle is at all similar to her previous series, the overall reading experience will be excellent. I so look forward to “Refining Fire” and hope I can snag a review copy so I won’t have to wait until its publication in June to read it.
This book was provided for review by
Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Despite her spoiled upbringing, twenty-year-old Lenore Fulcher isn’t pretentious. She simply believes a marriage should be built on true love. Her father, however, thinks she’s wasted enough time searching for the perfect husband. He wants to marry her off to one of his business partners–who is seventeen years her senior–an idea that is out of the question for Lenore.
Kolbein Booth, a young lawyer from Chicago, arrives in Seattle looking for his headstrong sister, who he believes may have answered an advertisement for mail-order brides. Sick with worry, he storms into the Madison Bridal School, demanding to see his sister, only to learn she isn’t there. But Lenore Fulcher is, and something about her captures his attention.
Is this the man Lenore has been searching for? She may not have long to find out…
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Photo Credit: ©Lissa Barber Photography
Tracie Peterson is the award-winning author of over one hundred novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her stories, as seen in her bestselling Heirs of Montana and Alaskan Quest series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana. Visit Tracie’s website at www.traciepeterson.com.
MY REVIEW:
Back in the days when I was much younger and probably before there was a distinct genre known as Christian Fiction, I loved what was then called Gothic Romance novels. As the general market became filled with more and more content that I found offensive, I began to limit my reading to Christian fiction only and pretty much forgot how much I enjoyed those old Gothic novels. During the past year or so, I have been delighted to find a few authors who are writing books with that Gothic atmosphere but with clean plots and usually even a strong message of faith. “The Secret of Pembrooke Park” is one of those books and it surpassed all my expectations.
When Abigail Foster’s family suffers a financial setback, they are offered the opportunity to move to the manor of a distant family member. Feeling somewhat responsible for the financial loss, Abigail moves in to set things in order while her father takes care of business and her mother and sister remain in London to prepare for the season, hoping her sister will find a well-to-do husband. The mysterious manor has been abandoned for eighteen years and it appears that its residents left it suddenly, however no one in the area will even discuss what might have happened. Rumors of a secret room filled with treasures plus warnings about the former owner reach Abigail but most of her questions remain unanswered.
“The Secret of Pembrooke Park” is filled with mystery, suspense, secrets, a romantic triangle, and several surprises. The abandoned manor was the perfect setting for all the mysterious happenings. Although there were quite a few clues dropped during the course of the narrative, many of them could have pointed to more than one suspect so I was never quite certain who it was – at least until the actual revelation. I loved finding out what the true “treasure” was!
I enthusiastically recommend “The Secret of Pembrooke Park”, especially to those like me who enjoy Gothic romance. Julie Klassen is on my top 10 list and her books like this one have kept her there.
This book was provided for review by the Readers Only Group of the Book Club Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Abigail Foster is the practical daughter. She fears she will end up a spinster, especially as she has little dowry, and the one man she thought might marry her seems to have fallen for her younger, prettier sister.
Facing financial ruin, Abigail and her father search for more affordable lodgings, until a strange solicitor arrives with an astounding offer: the use of a distant manor house abandoned for eighteen years. The Fosters journey to imposing Pembrooke Park and are startled to find it entombed as it was abruptly left: tea cups encrusted with dry tea, moth-eaten clothes in wardrobes, a doll’s house left mid-play…
The handsome local curate welcomes them, but though he and his family seem acquainted with the manor’s past, the only information they offer is a stern warning: Beware trespassers drawn by rumors that Pembrooke Park contains a secret room filled with treasure.
This catches Abigail’s attention. Hoping to restore her family’s finances–and her dowry–Abigail looks for this supposed treasure. But eerie sounds at night and footprints in the dust reveal she isn’t the only one secretly searching the house.
Then Abigail begins receiving anonymous letters, containing clues about the hidden room and startling discoveries about the past.
As old friends and new foes come calling at Pembrooke Park, secrets come to light. Will Abigail find the treasure and love she seeks…or very real danger?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
JULIE KLASSEN worked in publishing for sixteen years (first in advertising, then as a fiction editor) and now writes full time. Three of her books, The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, The Girl in the Gatehouse, and The Silent Governess have won the Christy Award for Historical Romance. The Maid of Fairbourne Hall and The Girl in the Gatehouse also won a Midwest Book Award and The Silent Governess was a finalist in Romance Writers of America’s RITA awards.
She graduated from the University of Illinois and enjoys travel, research, BBC period dramas, long hikes, short naps, and coffee with friends. She and her husband have two sons and live near St. Paul, Minnesota.
A Word from the Author:
I never planned to be a writer. In fact, it took me a while to finish college. But I did, and here I am. And I now I can’t imagine not being a writer.
By day, I am an English Instructor at MATC, Marketing Manager for Degnan Design Builders, Inc., mother to four amazing children, wife to an eternally patient and supportive husband, and Worship Leader for Living Hope Fellowship in Sun Prairie, WI. In the evening, when I can squirrel away some quiet time, I read and write historical fiction.
I have a B.A. in English Lit. from UW Whitewater and an M.F.A in Creative Writing from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, NJ.
If you have a question for me, or if you are local and would like me to stop by your book club or writer’s group, please drop me a line via the “Ask the Author” tab. I always love the opportunity to meet with others who share my love of books.
Learn more about Cara and her books on her website.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Miriam paints the future…but can she change it?
Chicago – 1890
Miriam watches the people jostle their way below the windows of her warehouse home, never thinking to look up at her as she paints their faces. But Miriam’s gift as an artist goes beyond a mere recording of what is: Miriam paints their futures. Only once was she wrong. One woman doesn’t match the future Miriam saw. The bright girl was supposed to grow into a respected businesswoman. Instead, Ione disappears nightly into the shadowed alley next to the cathedral with the other prostitutes. Then one night, while walking through the city fog, Miriam finds Ione broken and beaten. Miriam is forced to open her home to the stranger whose face she knows so well and open her life to change she never could have foretold. Women are missing—some found floating in the river, some never seen again. The deacon from the cathedral is the first to help. Soon Miriam’s solicitor, Michael, aids her in rejoining society so they might uncover the evil at work in the corrupt city…and awakens feelings she had never considered before. Finally engaged with the world she has so long observed, finally stirred by love and friendship, Miriam realizes the responsibility of her gifting. No longer can she just paint what will be. She must now help Ione find the future she is meant to have…and find her own along with it.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Soul Painter, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
I almost hesitate to review Soul Painter, partially from fear of revealing too much and partially because I am not sure I have the words to adequately describe my impressions of it. I have always loved what many call “gothic romance” novels and read innumerable books by authors such as Mary Stewart and Victoria Holt back in the day before good Christian fiction became so readily available. Soul Painter has that dark and brooding atmosphere so prevalent in the best of the classic gothic novels. Many readers of Christian fiction may possibly find it too dark for their sensibilities.
Soul Painter is the story about Miriam, a reclusive heiress who has chosen to remain in an apartment above her deceased father’s warehouse that is located directly across from the neighborhood cathedral. An artist, Miriam enjoys watching the people from her window and often walks among them during the evening. The discovery of an injured prostitute one evening changes Miriam’s life as she is compelled to become involved with several other people as they endeavor to find and stop the person responsible for the attacks and disappearance of so many women from the area near the cathedral.
I thoroughly enjoyed every page of Soul Painter and was not happy to reach its end. The characters were so well developed and the author set the perfect scene for the plot. Although the crimes depicted were disturbing, they were described tactfully and without the gratuitous violence and obscenity found in many secular novels. I loved how Miriam, John, Michael, the doctor, and the pastor’s family reached out to “sinful” women and showed them the true love of Christ without judgment. I look forward to future novels by this new-to-me author. I sincerely hope I won’t have to wait too long.
