by admin | Oct 16, 2014 | Books, England, Historical, Regency, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I enjoyed the first two books in Ladd’s Whispers on the Moors series so I opened “A Lady at Willowgrove Hall” with anticipation. Within the first page or two I was totally immersed and did not want to put the book down – even to sleep. Sarah has a special talent for drawing her readers into the story and making them feel a part of it.
“A Lady at Willowgrove Hall” is a story about secrets – secrets that seem to grow larger and more burdensome each day. The very lives of three of the characters have been grievously affected by these secrets. Cecily’s secret weighs her down with shame and feelings of unworthiness; Nathaniel’s has kept his secret in order to protect his mother and sisters; and Mrs. Trent has allowed her secret to cause her to grow bitter and unforgiving toward Nathaniel and his family despite their innocence.
I liked the way Cecily and Mrs. Trent grew to care for each other despite the negative warnings shared with Cecily when she first arrived at Willowgrove Hall. Nathaniel’s mother and sisters were special secondary characters who added depth and humor to the tale. There were moments when I was unsure whether Cecily would choose Nathaniel or allow herself to be swayed by Andrew, a man from her past. I think she made the right choice.
I loved the way Sarah handled the subject of secrets and how they gain control of one’s life as well as the freedom that comes after bringing the shadows of the past into the light. I highly recommend “A Lady at Willowgrove Hall” as well as the other two books in this series. I look forward to Sarah’s next series.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Her secret cloaks her in isolation and loneliness.
His secret traps him in a life that is not his own.
Cecily Faire carries the shame of her past wherever she treads, knowing one slip of the tongue could strip away everything she holds dear. But soon after accepting the position of lady’s companion at Willowgrove Hall, Cecily finds herself face-to-face with a man well-acquainted with the past she’s desperately hidden for years.
Nathaniel Stanton has a secret of his own – one that has haunted him from birth and tied him to his father’s position as steward of Willowgrove. To protect his family, Nathaniel dares not breath a word of the truth. But as long as the shadow looms over him, he’ll never be free to find his own way in the world. He’ll never be free to fall in love.
When the secrets swirling within Willowgrove Hall come to light, Cecily and Nathaniel must confront a painful choice: Will they continue running from the past . . . or will they stand together and build a future without the suffocating weight of secrets long suffered?
Learn more and purchase a copy at Sarah’s site.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sarah E. Ladd has more than ten years of marketing experience. She is a graduate of Ball State University and holds degrees in public relations and marketing. “The Heiress of Winterwood” was the recipient of the 2011 Genesis Award for historical romance and a finalist in the Debut Author category of the 2014 Carol Awards. The second book in the series, “The Headmistress of Rosemere” (2013), was on the ECPA best-seller list for several months. Sarah lives in Indiana with her amazing husband, sweet daughter, and spunky Golden Retriever.
Find out more about Sarah at http://www.sarahladd.com.
New Regency from @SarahLaddAuthor AND a Kindle HDX giveaway!
Award-winning author Sarah E. Ladd examines how to escape the clutches of a tainted past in the final installment of her Whispers on the Moor series.
A Regency-era novel, A Lady at Willowgrove Hall cleverly shows that even though our pasts may be shameful or painful, God can take the darkest personal histories and turn them into the brightest futures.
Celebrate with Sarah by entering her Kindle HDX giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire HDX
- A Lady at Willowgrove Hall by Sarah E. Ladd
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 2nd. Winner will be announced November 3rd here.
by admin | Aug 18, 2014 | Books, England, Historical, Regency, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
Although it is frowned upon by proper society, Alethea Sutherton loves to play her violin and is actually a quite accomplished musician. Although its appearance is nothing special, someone wants her violin and it appears that nothing will stop him from acquiring it. With the reluctant help of Lord Bay Dommick, Alethea attempts to discover why her instrument is so special and who could want it so badly.
A story filled with mystery, suspense, danger, and of course romance, “Prelude For a Lord” was the perfect read. Alethea and Lord Dommick were an excellent match and supporting characters were also well defined. I loved the camaraderie and loyalty between Bay and his friends. With its theme of renewed faith and trust, this book is perfect for devotees of Christian historical romance.
I have often enjoyed the contemporary novels by Camy Tang, particularly her romantic suspense. “Prelude For a Lord” further proves her talent as a writer and I sincerely hope she will gift her readers with more regency novels.
This book was provided for review by the BookLook Blogger Program of Harper Collins Christian Publishing..
ABOUT THE BOOK:
An awkward young woman. A haunted young man. A forbidden instrument. Can the love of music bring them together . . . or will it tear them apart? Bath, England—1810 At twenty-eight, Alethea Sutherton is past her prime for courtship; but social mores have never been her forté. She might be a lady, but she is first and foremost a musician. In Regency England, however, the violin is considered an inappropriate instrument for a lady. Ostracized by society for her passion, Alethea practices in secret and waits for her chance to flee to the Continent, where she can play without scandal. But when a thief’s interest in her violin endangers her and her family, Alethea is determined to discover the enigmatic origins of her instrument . . . with the help of the dark, brooding Lord Dommick. Scarred by war, Dommick finds solace only in playing his violin. He is persuaded to help Alethea, and discovers an entirely new yearning in his soul. Alethea finds her reluctant heart drawn to Dommick in the sweetest of duets . . . just as the thief’s desperation builds to a tragic crescendo . . .
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Camy writes Christian romantic suspense as Camy Tang and Regency romance under her pen name, Camille Elliot. She grew up in Hawaii, where she started reading Regency romances when she was thirteen years old. Now she lives in northern California with her engineer husband and rambunctious dog.
She graduated from Stanford University in psychology with a focus on biology, and for nine years she worked as a biologist researcher. Then God guided her path in a completely different direction and now she’s writing full time, using her original psychology degree as she creates the characters in her novels.
In her free time, she’s a staff worker for her church youth group and leads one of her church’s Sunday worship teams. She also loves to knit, spin wool into yarn, and is training to (very slowly) run a marathon.
by admin | Apr 17, 2014 | Books, England, Historical, Regency, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have known readers who refused to begin reading a series before all its books had been released because they did not want to wait for the next volume to be published before they could continue reading. Jessica Dotta’s Price of Privilege series might actually be one that would make that practice seem like a good idea. After reading the first two installments of this series I can confirm that the second depends greatly on the first for background details. It has been awhile since I read “Born of Persuasion” with quite a few other books in between so it took me a bit to remember what had transpired in it.
In a style reminiscent of the best gothic novels I once devoured, “Mark of Distinction” carried a dark and brooding atmosphere throughout and revealed only enough details to keep me thoroughly confused about what was actually going on. Of course that is part of the attraction of this type novel and I loved wondering exactly who were the villains and who were the honorable characters. At times the lines between them were definitely a bit sketchy to say the least.
There was little not to like about “Mark of Distinction” except maybe the wait for the publishing date of “Price of Privilege”. Once again the characters were superb, the plot well-crafted, and the atmosphere and setting perfection. Then there was the surprise ending – I’ll admit I never saw that coming! I can’t wait to find out what will happen next.
This book was provided for review by The Tyndale Blog Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
London is said to be the glittering jewel of society, a world unto itself—but to Julia Elliston it is a city of shadows. Her life is swiftly dissolving into scandal. And in Victorian society, even a whisper of scandal—substantiated or not—can be the death of a young woman’s reputation.
Now under the watchful eye of Lord Roy Pierson, one of most influential men in England, Julia begrudgingly accepts his protection. But Chance Macy’s power is far-reaching as well, and he is eager to assert his claim over her.
Thrust into society as the Emerald Heiress, Julia is the toast of London, a celebrated curiosity. But in reality she’s trapped between the clutches of two powerful men. Aided only by a gentleman whose intentions she prays she can trust, Julia must finally take control of her own fate—but outwitting one’s foe rarely goes according to plan.
Read an excerpt from Mark of Distinction HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jessica Dotta has always been fascinated by England during the Regency and Victorian era. Her passion for British Literature fueled her desire to write in a style that blends the humor of Jane Austen and the dark drama of a Bronte sister. She lives in the Nashville area with her family and works as a freelance media consultant and publicist.
Visit Jessica Dotta’s website.
Jessica Dotta’s Facebook.
by admin | Mar 21, 2014 | Books, England, Historical, Regency, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“A Heart’s Rebellion” is a beautifully written novel set in Regency era England. With lavish descriptions of architecture, landscapes, and events attended by the “Ton”, the story was quite easy to picture in my mind. Historical details and customs helped me to understand the reasoning behind the characters’ actions.
Although Jessamine was the main character, it was very difficult to like her at times. Many of her choices were foolishly based on past hurts and very nearly led to her downfall. On the other hand, Lancelot was easy to like and although I wasn’t sure Jessamine deserved him, I was rooting for him nevertheless. I was gratified to watch as Jessamine learned from her mistakes, matured, and found her way back to God. I also thoroughly enjoyed touching base again with Celine and Rees from “Moonlight Masquerade” and the primary roles they played in “A Heart’s Rebellion” also.
“A Heart’s Rebellion” is another fine novel by Ruth Axtell that should definitely appeal to those who enjoy Regency romance novels. This author undoubtedly excels in this genre.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In a world governed by unspoken rules, one young woman is about to break them all . . .
Dutiful Jessamine Barry is tired of waiting patiently for a man to decide her future. So even though Lancelot Marfleet, second son of an aristocrat, is taking an interest in her during the London season, she refuses to consider him as a suitor. Instead, she’s ready to take fashionable society by storm–and finds a rakish young man all too willing to help her do it.
Can Jessamine trust her heart to lead her to a love that proves true through thick and thin? Or will her rash actions close the door on the life she really desires?
Lose yourself in Ruth Axtell’s sumptuous story of discovering one’s true self and finding true love.
“Rich and rewarding, A Heart’s Rebellion is a regency unmatched, capturing readers with a plot so unique and compelling, pages will fly and sleep will be lost. With grace and mastery, Ruth Axtell has penned a lush regency tale where a heart’s rebellion slowly ripens into a love everlasting.”–Julie Lessman, award-winning author of the Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Ruth Axtell is the author of many novels, including Moonlight Masquerade and Wild Rose, one of Booklist’s Top Ten in Christian Fiction. Currently a resident of Downeast Maine, Axtell has lived in the Canary Islands, Miami, and the Netherlands. Learn more at www.ruthaxtell.com.
by admin | Jan 23, 2014 | Books, England, Historical, Regency, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Sarah Ladd’s beautifully written second novel “The Headmistress of Rosemere” has confirmed her standing as yet another author on my “Must Read” list. After all, what is there not to like about it? Its mysteriously foreboding setting on the moors, a dashing “bad boy” hero who is bent on changing his ways as well as saving the family estate, a beautiful and brave heroine who is dedicated to her family and her students, a bit of mystery and a dash of danger topped with a sweet romance are all elements that perfectly combine to create the perfect read for a winter’s evening.
I particularly liked the way the author kept me on my toes with several surprises and twists to the tale. The usual suspects did not always turn out to be guilty and sometimes guilty parties were totally unexpected. Revelations about both primary characters were gradually introduced into the plot and I enjoyed watching their relationship grow as they each gained respect for the other.
“The Headmistress of Rosemere” is a book that will have a place of honor on my bookshelf and will most likely be one of those I will read again.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Patience Creighton has dedicated herself to the Rosemere School for Young Ladies. But the return of the enigmatic master of the estate puts everything she loves at risk.
Bright, sensible Patience knows what is expected of her. At twenty-five, her opportunity for a family of her own has passed, so she invests herself in teaching at her father’s school for girls. When her father dies suddenly and her brother moves away to London, she is determined to make the school successful.
Confirmed bachelor William Sterling also knows what is expected of him, but mistake after mistake has left him teetering on ruin’s edge. As master of Eastmore Hall he owns a great deal of property — including the land where Rosemere School is located — but possesses little money to manage its upkeep. When debtors start calling, he is desperate to find a new source of income, even if it means sacrificing Rosemere.
When a fire threatens the school grounds, William must decide to what lengths he is willing to go to protect his birthright. And when Patience’s brother returns with a new wife to take over management of the school, Patience suddenly finds herself unsure of her calling. After a surprising truth about William’s past is brought to light, both William and Patience will have to seek God’s plans for their lives—and their hearts.
Purchase a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sarah E. Ladd has more than ten years of marketing experience. She is a graduate of Ball State University and holds degrees in public relations and marketing. “The Heiress of Winterwood” was the recipient of the 2011 Genesis Award for historical romance. Sarah lives in Indiana with her amazing husband, sweet daughter, and spunky Golden Retriever.
Learn more at Sarah’s website.
The Headmistress of Rosemere “School” Your Desk Kindle Fire Giveaway and Facebook Party!
Don’t miss Sarah Ladd’s latest Regency novel, The Headmistress of Rosemere. She is celebrating the release of book two in her Whispers on the Moors series with a fun “School” Your Desk Kindle Fire Giveaway and an Author Chat Facebook Party!
Between January 17–28, visit Sarah Ladd’s Facebook Page to enter to win a new giveaway each day and be entered to win a Kindle Fire grand prize. Winners will be announced at the Facebook Author Chat party on January 28th! (Don’t have a Facebook account? Enter here.)
RSVP today for Sarah’s The Headmistress of Rosemere Author Chat Party on Facebook. During the party Sarah will be hosting a book chat, testing your Regency trivia skills, announcing the winner of the “School” Your Desk Giveaway, and giving away books, gift certificates, and more. Oh, and she’ll also be giving partygoers an exclusive look at the next book in the Whispers on the Moors series!
So grab your copy of The Headmistress of Rosemere and hope to see you on the evening of January 28th! (If you haven’t read the book, don’t let that stop you from coming!)
DON’T MISS A MOMENT OF THE FUN; RSVP TODAY.
HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE 28th!
by admin | Jan 22, 2014 | Books, England, Regency, Romance
MY REVIEW:
It is with much regret that I confess that unlike a multitude of other readers, I have somehow missed out on the oh so popular classic novels of Jane Austen – or if I have read any of them, my memory of them is buried deep among the possibly thousands of other books I have read during my lifetime. I realize that Jane Austen has set a standard that many authors hope to achieve. I have read and enjoyed most if not all of Julie Klassen’s novels and in my opinion, if she has not met those standards then the standards are too high.
“The Dancing Master” is an intriguing and beautifully written story about a small town with a history and secrets that have had a major influence on its residents and their everyday lives even after twenty years. Julia Midwinter, the daughter of the town matriarch, desperately wants to get away from the overprotective prison her mother has built around her. She has always felt unloved by her father and stifled by her mother and as a result has become quite reckless and flirtatious. A new man in town has caught her attention but will he be enough to make her change her ways. Alec Valcourt has recently arrived with his mother and sister to live with his uncle in order to escape a serious family scandal. A dancing master, Alec hopes to open his own dancing and fencing academy but quickly learns that dancing is frowned upon in the village of Beaworthy. Determined to provide for his family, Alec must find a way to earn a living without having to resort to labor for which he is ill equipped.
“The Dancing Master” has something for almost every reader. There is romance but it is not the overwhelming focus of the narrative. Adequate attention is given to friendships and family relationships and a wealth of interesting characters populate the pages. Then there are the family secrets and mysteries as well as several scenes with action, danger, and conflict. Klassen creates the perfect atmosphere for each and every incident throughout the story. Several excellent examples of forgiveness, grace, and reconciliation are woven into the tale.
Another fine novel from Klassen, “The Dancing Master” has earned its place on my bookshelf. I eagerly anticipate this author’s next book and each one to follow.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Finding himself the man of the family, London dancing master Alec Valcourt moves his mother and sister to remote Devonshire, hoping to start over. But he is stunned to learn the village matriarch has prohibited all dancing, for reasons buried deep in her past.
Alec finds an unlikely ally in the matriarch’s daughter. Though he’s initially wary of Julia Midwinter’s reckless flirtation, he comes to realize her bold exterior disguises a vulnerable soul–and hidden sorrows of her own.
Julia is quickly attracted to the handsome dancing master–a man her mother would never approve of–but she cannot imagine why Mr. Valcourt would leave London, or why he evades questions about his past. With Alec’s help, can Julia uncover old secrets and restore life to her somber village…and to her mother’s tattered heart?
Filled with mystery and romance, The Dancing Master brings to life the intriguing profession of those who taught essential social graces for ladies and gentlemen hoping to make a “good match” in Regency England.
Purchase a copy and learn more at Julie’s website.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Julie Klassen loves all things Jane–”Jane Eyre” and Jane Austen. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. She is a three-time Christy Award winner and a 2010 Midwest Book Award winner for Genre Fiction. Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.
Find out more about Julie at http://www.julieklassen.com/.
Julie Klassen’s “The Dancing Master” giveaway and “All Things Jane” webcast 1/23!
Best-selling author Julie Klassen will be hosting a Kindle Fire HDX giveaway and a live webcast event (1/23) to celebrate the release of her latest novel, The Dancing Master. Enter and RSVP today!
One winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire HDX
- The Dancing Master by Julie Klassen
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on January 23rd. Winner will be announced at the “All Things Jane (from Austen to Eyre)” Live Webcast Event on January 23rd. Connect with Julie for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Julie will also be taking questions from the audience and giving away books, Jane Austen DVDs, fun “Jane” merchandise, and gift certificates throughout the evening.
So grab your copy of The Dancing Master and join Julie and friends on the evening of January 23rd for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book, don’t let that stop you from coming!)
Don’t miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by signing up for a reminder. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 23rd!
