A Lasting Impression was of particular interest to me because of its Nashville setting. Although I have not actually toured the Belmont mansion, I have spent some time in the general neighborhood. As a lifelong Tennessean, I also enjoy reading novels set in Tennessee. After reading this novel, I will have to make the Belmont tour a must on my next trip to Nashville.
Claire Laurent hated that her father forced her to forge paintings yet constantly disparaged her own talent. When circumstances forced her to flee New Orleans, she learned of her father’s death upon her arrival in Nashville. With nowhere to turn, she sought overnight shelter in a church where her life was changed forever. Hired as a liaison to Adelicia Acklen, owner of the Belmont estate, Claire was finally able to turn away from her past and work toward a respectable future. But how long could Claire keep her secrets hidden from Adelicia and Sutton Monroe, the man Claire was rapidly falling for?
A Lasting Impression is a richly embroidered story that transports the reader to post civil war Nashville. The plot is perfectly paced and the characters almost step off the pages. Although much of the story takes place within the Belmont Mansion and describes life among the privileged set, Alexander also includes accounts of devastation and loss in the aftermath of the war. This is a story of second changes, renewed trust, and restoration. I cannot say enough positive things about A Lasting Impression. If you enjoy historical fiction, this is one book you need to add to your collection.
Tamera Alexander is the best-selling author of Rekindled, Revealed and Remembered, the critically acclaimed Fountain Creek Chronicles historical series with Bethany House Publishers. Her second historical series, Timber Ridge Reflections (From a Distance, Beyond This Moment, and Within My Heart) continue her signature style of deeply drawn characters, thought-provoking plots, and poignant prose which has earned her devoted readers—and multiple industry awards.
These awards include the 2009 and 2008 Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the 2010 and 2007 RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, the 2010 and 2007 Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, the 2010 HOLT Medallion, the 2007 Bookseller’s Best Award, the 2007 National Reader’s Choice Award, and Library Journal’s Top Christian Fiction for 2006, among others.
Tamera’s newest novel A Lasting Impression is the first of a brand new three-book Southern historical series, and the first two chapters are available for review. She’s at work on her ninth novel which will release in fall 2012.
After living in Colorado for seventeen years, Tamera has returned to her Southern roots. She and her husband now make their home in Nashville, Tennessee, along with Tamera’s father, Doug, and with their two adult children who live near by. And don’t forget Jack, their precious–and precocious–silky terrier.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
To create something that will last is Claire Laurent’s most fervent desire as an artist. It’s also her greatest weakness. When her fraud of a father deals her an unexpected hand, Claire is forced to flee from New Orleans to Nashville, only a year after the War Between the States has ended. Claire’s path collides with that of Sutton Monroe, and she considers him a godsend for not turning her in to the authorities. But when they meet again and he refuses to come to her aid, she realizes she’s sorely misjudged the man. Trading an unwanted destiny for an unknown future, Claire finds herself in the middle of Nashville’s elite society and believes her dream of creating a lasting impression in the world of art may finally be within reach.
All that Sutton Monroe holds dear lies in ruin. He’s determined to reclaim his heritage and to make the men who murdered his father pay. But what he discovers on his quest for vengeance reveals a truth that may cost him more than he ever imagined.
Set at Nashville’s historical Belmont Mansion, a stunning antebellum manor built by Mrs. Adelicia Acklen, the richest woman in America in the 1860s, A Lasting Impression showcases the deep, poignant, unforgettable characters that set Tamera’s stories apart and provides an inspiring love story that will capture readers’ hearts and leave them eager for more.
Okay, I admit it, despite frequent ridicule, I actually enjoy Hallmark movies. In my opinion, Christmas Lodge falls into the same category of cozy, feel-good movies that are appropriate for the entire family or for those who just do not care for many of the current TV and movie offerings.
Christmas Lodge is a story of faith, hope, love of family, and following the path the Lord has for you. A sweet romance takes center stage but the interaction between Mary and her family, particularly her grandfather, were quite heart-warming. As a voracious reader, I wished for a bit more communication between Mary and Jack but I realize that the limited time of the medium precludes that option. Movies just require a bit more of my imagination even if I can actually see the action as it takes place.
I enjoyed Christmas Lodge and its positive message, however the breathtaking scenery and the architecture of the lodge and the Arts and Crafts home of Mary’s parents really captured my attention. More than once I found myself wishing for a home like either of them. It was like watching a Thomas Kinkade painting come to life.
I would absolutely recommend Christmas Lodge for a relaxing family movie night to help get in the holiday spirit as Christmas approaches.
“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.”
SYNOPSIS:
Thomas Kinkade presents Christmas Lodge: a place where a heart-warming past and loving future meet for one remarkable group of people. During a weekend trip to the mountains, Mary (Erin Karpluk) finds herself at the now- dilapidated lodge where she spent the holidays with her family growing up. She becomes determined to restore the building to its former glory. Inspired by her grandfather and guided by her grandmother in heaven, Mary throws herself into the project, and during the process finds herself drawn to Jack (Michael Shanks), a handsome man who loves the lodge as much as she does. Historically unlucky in love, this chance encounter allows Mary to renew her faith in life and discover her one true love. For an uplifting story about the importance of faith, family and the true holiday spirit, go to the Christmas Lodge.
Preview The Christmas Lodge at the Internet Movie Database:
I have one copy of the Christmas Lodge dvd to give away to a reader of this blog. If you would like to enter to win a copy, please leave a comment on this post with a short description of a memorable Christmas you have experienced.
Contest ends Saturday, November 5, 2011. No entries yet so I have extended the entry deadline to Saturday, November 12. Please include a way I can reach you if you win.
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A Lasting Impression was of particular interest to me because of its Nashville setting. Although I have not actually toured the Belmont mansion, I have spent some time in the general neighborhood. As a lifelong Tennessean, I also enjoy reading novels set in Tennessee. After reading this novel, I will have to make the Belmont tour a must on my next trip to Nashville.
