"Far Side of the Sea" by Kate Breslin

My review...

I haven’t read a lot of books of this era, so I was interested in reading this one, as I’ve heard many wonderful things about Breslin in the past.

I haven’t read Not by Sight, and apparently some characters are returning characters from that book. However, the story did still make sense to me. I’m pretty sure this is the only book I’ve ever read that has carrier pigeons as characters 😊 The author taught me a lot about them along the way.

Colin and Johanna and well-developed characters, so it was interesting to follow them. The pace was steady, and the faith message wasn’t overwhelming. Some parts were a bit predictable, but it was still and enjoyable book overall, particularly in relation to the rich details, especially about Paris and Barcelona. I’ve never been to either, but I was able to easily envision things. History, mystery, and romance combine to make this a great book for fans of historical fiction or spy novels.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

"Within These Lines" by Stephanie Morrill ... and a GIVEAWAY (March 5th-9th)! (JustRead Tours)

GIVEAWAY RUNS FROM MARCH 5TH-9TH

Welcome to the Blog & Review Tour - and Giveaway - for Within These Lines by Stephanie Morrill, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Within These Lines  

Author: Stephanie Morrill  

Publisher: Blink YA  

Genre: Historical Young Adult Fiction  

Release Date: March 5, 2019

When Evalina Cassano and Taichi Hamasaki are torn apart by the events following the attack on Pearl Harbor, they must fight if they want any hope of returning to one another before World War II steals their future together. Within These Lines is one unflinching, haunting, historical novel you don’t want to miss; perfect for fans of Monica Hesse, Ruta Sepetys, and Elizabeth Wein.

Evalina Cassano’s life in an Italian-American family living in San Francisco in 1941 is quiet and ordinary until she falls in love with Taichi Hamasaki, the son of Japanese immigrants. Despite the scandal it would cause and that inter-racial marriage is illegal in California, Evalina and Taichi vow they will find a way to be together. But anti-Japanese feelings erupt across the country after the attack on Pearl Harbor, and Taichi and his family are forced to give up their farm and move to a Japanese-American internment camp.

Degrading treatment makes life at Manzanar Relocation Center difficult. Taichi’s only connection to the outside world is treasured letters from Evalina. Feeling that the only action she can take to help Taichi is to speak out against injustice, Evalina becomes increasingly vocal at school and at home. Meanwhile, inside Manzanar, fighting between different Japanese-American factions arises. Taichi begins to doubt he will ever leave the camp alive.

With tensions running high and their freedom on the line, Evalina and Taichi must hold true to their ideals and believe in their love to make a way back to each other against unbelievable odds.  

Within These Lines:

• Is a young adult historical novel set in the World War II era
• Contains themes of love, separation, social justice, war, and diversity
• Perfect for junior high and high school students
• A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository | Christian Book | iTunes

MY REVIEW

WWII-era books are some of my favorites to read, but the focus is usually on concentration camps, the Nazis, and/or Europe. I’ve never read another book like this one. I don’t remember learning much about the Japanese internment camps in America during WWII at all, so I was very interested in Morrill’s latest.

From the start, I was hooked. The story is told in alternating POVs (Taichi, who is Japanese, and Evalina, an Italian immigrant). Precise detailing, compelling characters, and facts mixed with fiction combine to create a story that will likely stick with the reader after the last page is turned. This is not an easy read, but Morrill handles the difficult topics with sensitivity. It’s thought provoking, and there’s a lot to digest in this book, which is heartbreaking yet captivating all at the same time. Through it all, hope clearly shines through. There is a love angle, but it is not overwhelming. The ending wraps up a bit too neatly and felt a bit abrupt, but I still enjoyed the book as a whole.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, but I wasn’t required to leave a complimentary review.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stephanie Morrill writes books about girls who are on an adventure to discover their unique place in the world. She is the author of several contemporary young adult series, as well as the 1920s mystery, The Lost Girl of Astor Street, and the WWII era romance, Within These Lines. Since 2010, Stephanie has been encouraging the next generation of writers at her website, GoTeenWriters.com. She lives in the Kansas City area, where she loves plotting big and small adventures to enjoy with her husband and three children. You can connect with Stephanie and learn more about her books at StephanieMorrill.com, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.  

CONNECT WITH THE AUTHOR: website | facebook | twitter | instagram

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GIVEAWAY

(1) Grand Prize winner will win a release copy of Within These Lines & a special designed poster of Within These Lines from the publisher, Blink YA. Featured quote on poster: "Be Brave Enough to Care and Bold Enough to Act"

(5) First Prize winners will each with a special designed poster of Within These Lines from the publisher, Blink YA. Featured quote on poster: "Be Brave Enough to Care and Bold Enough to Act"

Be sure to check out each stop on the Bookstagram Tour and (upcoming) Takeover Tour, as well as this tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Giveaway began at midnight March 5, 2019 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 18, 2019. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Due to shipping cost, only US mailing addresses valid. For our giveaway rules and policy, click HERE.

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Be sure to stop at the following tours for more chances to win!

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

"The Secrets of Paper and Ink" by Lindsay Harrel

The author has offered to give away a print copy of the book (US ONLY). You can enter by using the Rafflecopter link at the end of the post. (Giveaway ends March 8, 2019. If you are the randomly chosen winner, I'll contact you.)  

How the story came to be written...

The first “story spark” for The Secrets of Paper and Ink came when I watched PBS’s show Poldark. I saw the gorgeous scenery of Cornwall, England, and thought, “I absolutely must write a book set there.”

Around the same time, I heard a radio story about a bookstore in Scotland where you can rent an apartment above a bookstore in exchange for working in the store. Of course, I immediately wanted to go rent that apartment! But since I couldn’t (you know, because that costs money), I wrote about a character who did something similar.

I’ve written stories about mothers and daughters, and sisters, but had never really written one about friendship and how God can put people in our path we didn’t know we needed. So I set out to write just such a book.

The very first draft of the book actually didn’t have Emily (the 19^th-century governess) in it at all! I started writing a very different story, but it just didn’t feel right. So I chucked the whole thing and went back to the drawing board. I’d been reading some books set in the 1800s during this time and had really fallen in love with the time period—but I was a bit terrified to write anything historical (What if I messed something up? Got something wrong? Used a word I shouldn’t have?). Still, I couldn’t let go of the idea. And that’s when Emily’s story just came to me. I actually sat down and wrote the entire historical thread in about a week or two.

Knowing her journey helped me to plot out what happened with Sophia and Ginny. I was then able to link all of their journeys together and figure out how they could all learn from each other.

Speaking of learning, I find that with every book, God teaches me something new. Throughout the writing of The Secrets of Paper and Ink, the theme of “story” kept coming back to my mind. The book obviously takes place in a bookstore, but the importance of story (and stories) in Sophia, Ginny, and Emily’s lives was even more than that. Figuring out what that meant exactly was not only part of their story, but mine as well. For me, it meant that my story (i.e., the story of my life) matters because God says it does—not because of what I achieve and not because of the labels others have put on me. And I think those things show in the characters’ journeys as well. 

Quotes...

“I have always believed that everyone has a story to tell. Story is sprouting up all around us, if only we have eyes to see it. Story forms the fiber of our being, and story is what will remain when we are gone.” 

“Something about the books, the stories—they spoke to her… Each one had something to say, and she longed to absorb the wisdom held in the secret places of each page. The ink soaked from the pages into her soul.” 

My review...

I was excited to read this book. How could I not be when the main character loves books and runs a bookstore!

Sophia Barrett has yet to return to work after the death of her abusive fiancé, so she heads to Cornwall, England in hopes of finding herself again, and perhaps writing her own story. She rents a place that also provides her with a job working in a bookstore, which is perfect for Sophia, a literary lover.

Ginny Rose is struggling to keep Rosebud Books, the bookstore she co-owns with her estranged husband, afloat as she tries to figure out how to save her marriage. She’s hoping that Sophia will be able to help.

Emily Fairfax knew she wanted to be a published author, even though that dream (as well as a future with her best friend, whom she loved) was out of her reach.

Sophia finds Emily’s journals from over a hundred years ago among the donations at the bookstore, and Sophia is determined to uncover all she can about the mysterious woman.

Harrel’s sophomore debut weaves together the lives of these three women in this dual-timeline novel. It is a powerful story, with themes of friendship, healing, and forgiveness, as well as having the courage to tell your own story. There were some unexpected twists along the way. The historical aspects were well researched and done in a way that makes the reader feel transported back in time. Vivid details make it easy to get fully immersed in this gem.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to write a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

Lindsay Harrel is a lifelong book nerd who lives in Arizona with her young family and two golden retrievers in serious need of training. She’s held a variety of writing and editing jobs over the years and now juggles stay-at-home mommyhood with writing novels. When she’s not writing or chasing after her children, Lindsay enjoys making a fool of herself at Zumba, curling up with anything by Jane Austen, and savoring sour candy one piece at a time. Connect with her atwww.LindsayHarrel.com.

Where you can find her online...

Website: https://www.lindsayharrel.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LindsayHarrel/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LindsayHarrel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindsayharrelauthor/

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"Breakthrough" by Joyce Smith

My review...

This true story has been made into a movie, and it is a reflection of a miracle and the power of prayer.

Joyce Smith shares her personal story of when her son falls through the ice and his heart stops for an hour. Through it all, she believes and relies on the power of prayer, boldly asking God to save and heal her son.

Smith’s story is one that grabs you from the beginning and doesn’t let up, making this book a quick read. The faith message is prominent throughout the entire book, and the details allow the reader to clearly see God’s hand at work. The forward is written by John, the main character, and there’s an afterword by the pastor. Scripture references, John’s doctor’s letter, and an author’s note are also included and well worth reading.

If you are not a believer in Christ, this book may not be for you. Or, it may be just what you need to see the peace that can only be found through a relationship with Jesus and recognize that miracles still happen.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the FaithWords/FirstWords Blogger program, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

Writing Prompt Wednesday

If you're feeling stuck in your WIP (work in progress) or just want to shake things up a bit, here's something different to try today:

He knew he must keep very still while he waited for...

Happy writing!

Monday Motivation

"Get it down. Take chances. It may be bad, but it's the only way you can do anything really good."

— William Faulkner

Have a wonderful week!

"Castle on the Rise" by Kristy Cambron ... and a GIVEAWAY!

Kristy's publisher has agreed to give away a copy of the book . You can enter by using the Rafflecopter link at the end of the post. (Giveaway ends February 28, 2019. If you are the randomly chosen winner, I'll contact you.) 

My review...

This is the sequel to The Lost Castle. There are three storylines woven together: 1916 (with Issy), 1799 (with Eoin), and present day (with Ellie and Laine). Each one has a strong heroine who faces adversity. While I liked reading some of the historical info on Ireland, there seemed to be a bit too much going on at times. It took a bit for it to all come together for me. Overall, I found it easiest to connect with the present-day story.

Cambron’s books are always meticulously researched, and this one is no exception. She has a gift for transporting the reader to a different time and place in history. I didn’t know much about Irish history prior to reading this, so I learned a lot along the way. The faith element isn’t as strong as I’d expected, but it is there. Be sure to check out the author’s note, as it’s quite interesting. The beautiful prose and cover make this a nice addition to the series.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of the book, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

About Kristy...

Kristy Cambron has a background in art and design, but she fancies life as a vintage-inspired storyteller. She is the author of The Ringmaster's Wife, named to Publishers Weekly Spring 2016 Religion & Spirituality TOP 10 and set for release on June 7, 2016 from HarperCollins Christian Publishing (Thomas Nelson). Her novels have been named to Library Journal Reviews' Best Books and RT Reviewers' Choice Awards Best lists and received a 2015 INSPY Awards nomination for best debut novel.

Kristy is a Speaker and Design Manager at TheGROVEstory.com and holds a degree in Art History from Indiana University. She lives in Indiana with her husband and three sons, where she can probably be bribed with a coconut mocha latte and a good read.

website: https://kristycambron.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kcambronauthor/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/KCambronAuthor/

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"Her Hope Discovered" by Cynthia Herron ... and a GIVEAWAY! (JustRead Tours)

Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for Her Hope Discovered by Cynthia Herron, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Her Hope Discovered  
Series: Welcome to Ruby #1  
Author: Cynthia Herron  
Publisher: Mountain Brook Ink  
Genre: Contemporary Romance  
Release Date: December 31, 2018

Is the sure thing worth risking for the possibility of maybe?

Charla Winthrop, a savvy business woman seeking a permanent lifestyle change in small-town Ruby, learns that things aren’t always what they appear when she takes up residence in a house steeped in charm and a hint of mystery. Rumor has it that Sam Packard the town carpenter is her go-to guy for home remodeling, but can Charla convince him to help her—with no strings attached, of course?

Alone far too long, Sam’s prayed that God would send him a wife and a mother for his daughters. However, the new Ruby resident is hardly what he imagined. A new place to call “home,” the possibility of what might be, and the answer to someone’s prayers unite this unlikely pair with the help of the town’s residents.

Nestled in the Ozarks’ hills and hollows is Ruby, Missouri, a quaint, cozy town where “neighbor” is merely another word for “friend.” Ruby will charm and delight as will her quirky, lovable characters who will steal your heart, but hand it right back—with whipped cream and a cherry on top. Savor your new friends’ sorrows and successes in the community where offbeat is perfect and mishaps and mayhem never tasted so good.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository

EXCERPT

Her Hope Discovered

By Cynthia Herron

August in the Missouri Ozarks…where humidity-laden air hangs heavy over these majestic hills and hollows, and time idles by easily, yet, with ordained precision of the Master’s hand.

“This isn’t a home I’d normally show you, Miss Winthrop.” Jerry Marshall removed his sunglasses and motioned toward the two-and-a-half story treasure. “The Ramsey place is a real beaut, of course, but five-thousand square feet is certainly more room than you’ll ever need. Still, you did ask to take a look.”

Charla cupped a palm above her eyes and blinked against the mid-afternoon sun. “Yes, I did.” Except the print-out didn’t do the house justice. It didn’t fully capture the charm. The nostalgia. The magnetic appeal that drew goosebumps. It didn’t convey the feeling the Ramsey home evoked—one of overwhelming love and longing. She stepped closer and gazed upward at the towering structure. “Details, Mr. Marshall?”

“Well,” her real estate agent paused. “Do you think—I mean, would it be…presumptuous of me to suggest we be on a first name basis? After all, we’ve known each other for a month now. Around here, formalities don’t hold water. In Ruby, we’re all friends.”

Charla shifted her gaze for a moment and smiled. “You’re right. First names, it is.”

“Great. Now about those details—this is a solid-built home, circa 1944. Excellent condition. Original woodwork, cedar closets. New heating and air, new roof, plumbing, and additional updates while preserving the home’s integrity. There’s an in-ground storm cellar out back, as well as a garden shed and a small garage. As the fact sheet indicates, it comes with a homeowner’s warranty. There’s a nice rolling meadow and fifteen wooded acres.” Jerry cleared his throat then and presented the asking price. “Now, there are some dandy places we haven’t even seen yet. Why don’t I show you a few of those, Charla? A number that are better suited to your…uh…needs, and more modestly priced?”

It should have irked her that he thought her both incapable and out of touch, but he was so sincere and likeable, Charla couldn’t help but laugh. “I’m single, Jerry, not incapacitated. And with a price tag like that, I bet the owner is willing to negotiate, right?”

“Well, a bit, I imagine. But still—we’re talking a whole lot of money here. Are you sure you still want to see the place?”

“I appreciate your concern, but what part of fat commission do you find distasteful?”

It was her agent’s turn to laugh. “Sorry. Didn’t mean to patronize.” He extended an arm with a grand flourish. “Shall we, then?”

“Absolutely.” She moved past him, excitement drumming in her veins. Drawn by an invisible force that mystified her, Charla hurried up the painted steps and waited for Jerry on the massive front porch. She needn’t look any further. This was it. This was the house. Even the imaginary scent of chocolate chip cookies confirmed it. “I can’t believe this home is still on the market.”

“Yes, well, Edwin’s waited a while for the right buyer.” Jerry met her at the door and inserted a key in the lockbox. “Said the good Lord would send that person when the time was right.”

He swung open the door and Charla’s world tilted. The time was definitely right. She hoped Edwin Ramsey was free to meet soon.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cynthia writes Heartfelt, Homespun Fiction from the beautiful Ozark Mountains. A hopeless romantic at heart, she enjoys penning stories about ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. Her Hope Discovered, her début novel and the first in a three-book series, released December 2018 with Mountain Brook Ink.

“Cindy” has a degree in psychology and a background in social work. She is a member of ACFW, ACFW MozArks, and RWA.

She is a 2017 ACFW Genesis Finalist, a 2016 ACFW Genesis (Double) Finalist, and a 2015 ACFW First Impressions Winner. Her short story Words from the Heart appears in The Story Anthology (Karen Kingsbury/Family Fiction) via Salem Publications, 2014. Her work is represented by Sarah Freese at WordServe Literary.

Besides writing, Cindy enjoys spending time with family and friends. She has a fondness for gingerbread men, miniature teapots, and all things apple. She also adores a great cup of coffee and she never met a sticky note she didn’t like.

Cindy loves to connect with friends at her online home. She also hangs out on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.  

For love, fun, and encouragement ~ Sign up for Cindy’s monthly e-NEWSLETTERS

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will win a $25 Amazon gift card from the author (US only)  

Enter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight February 18, 2019 and last through 11:59 pm February 25, 2019. US only. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Tuesday Tip: Vise or Vice?

Over the next few months, I'm going to be posting about some common words that can be confusing.


Vise is a tool used to hold an object firmly.

Clamp the starter in a vise.

Vice is a bad habit or immoral practice. 

He thought gambling was a vice.

"The Songbird and the Spy" by J'nell Ciesielski ... and a GIVEAWAY!

J'nell is here to share a bit about herself and her latest release. She's offered to give away an electronic copy of the book . You can enter by using the Rafflecopter link at the end of the post. (Giveaway ends February 22, 2019. If you are the randomly chosen winner, I'll contact you.) 

Q & A with J'nell...

Q: What message do you hope readers take away from your story?

A:  To be perfectly honest, I didn't start out with an intended message. I wanted to tell a fairly common story of falling for the wrong person with a twist of secret identities. Along the way, threads of not judging at first glance and finding unlikely bonds of love wove together in surprising ways. But it is in the small deeds of courage in the face of evil that are the soul to this story. Every-day people striving to do what's right, taking risks no matter the fallout or danger to themselves because there is a rightness that goes above personal gain. I hope it gives people courage, no matter how small or significant they believe their role in life to be.

Q:  What can you tell us about your next project?
A:  I have a novella coming out later this fall in a collection with three other authors. My story, "Night Fox," is set after the disastrous Jacobite Rebellion of 1715. My heroine turns thief in hopes of paying off her family debts until she runs afoul of the local laird's rigidity for rules. When she sets out to steal his priceless heirloom, the chase is on! Scotland is my favorite place in the whole wide world, so I love every opportunity I get to write about it. Plus, I love the idea of a charming lady thief.

Q:  That sounds like an interesting book. I look forward to checking it out later this year. What writers have inspired you?
A:  Roseanna White's incredible scope never ceases to amaze me. She writes series after series, most set in an era I adore, while running her own agency. How does she do it all? I believe she may be powered by unicorns and rainbows!

Recently, I came across Amor Towles. Oh my goodness. This man writes poetry in fiction form. He takes words to a level of brilliance that exceeds mere mortal expression. If I could have the amount of talent he has in his little finger, I'd be set for life.

Q:  I agree about Roseanna! I've never heard of Towles. I'll have to check out his books. Speaking of books, which book do you wish you'd written?
A:  Going off my current mood, it would be The Last Kingdom series. The story of Uhtred son of Uhtred has swallowed me whole with delicious appetite. It's a time not often talked about with King Alfred the Great, England before it was England, invading Danes, and the clash of paganism and Christianity. It's a sweeping saga of one man, half-Saxon and half-Dane yet belonging to neither, who is trying to reclaim his birthright. Destiny is all!

Q:  What's your favorite writing-related book?
A:  Believe it or not, it's little language dictionaries. Yes, plural because I have several depending on what era and region I'm writing in. These may not be writing-related, per se, but they're invaluable to me because without the right words the story is dead. Why tell someone to be quiet when you can say "Wheesht!" in Scots?!

Q:  Very true! I like learning different words like that, so your dictionaries sound interesting. What famous person would you like to meet and why?
A:  Ginger Rogers. She had it all: beauty, glamour, fashion, picture-perfect closeups, and she could dance circles around Fred Astaire. Literally. The woman did everything he did, but backwards and in heels! I'd beg her to teach me to dance because I have absolutely zero rhythm.

Q:  Good choice! What's one thing about you that would surprise your readers?
A:  I worked as a car valet while I was in college. I got to drive some very interesting cars, some very expensive, some that were like parking a barge, and a few I thought might fall apart as soon as the rusty door slammed shut.

Q:  That would be an interesting job! Do you have any writing rituals you must have or do when writing?
A:  My writing time starts at 1 p.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m. My, that's precise, you might say. Only because it's when my daughter spends mandatory quiet time in her room or she's at preschool. I get a nice, tall glass of water, load up a quiet soundtrack that coincides with the setting of my story (right now I'm into Outlander or The Hobbit), and settle into my girly pink office. At some point I'll pace around the room when I get stuck or wander down to the kitchen for a snack. All of this is done in comfy house pants and fluffy slippers.

Q: Who are three fictional people you'd like to meet?
A:  Count Rostov from A Gentleman in Moscow. They just don't make them like that anymore, and he'd have such stimulating conversation. Captain Gregg from The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (but only if it's Rex Harrison!). And finally Juliet Ashton from The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.Golly, that's a mouthful. I loved her spunk and humor, plus, she's a writer. I'd love to learn all about her experiences during the war and then writing about those amazing people on the island.

Q:  Great choices! One final question. If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three things would you need to have with you?
A:  Lip balm. The good kind that doesn't make your lips even drier, like the rosy one I have from Vaseline. A razor because the thought of rubbing prickly legs together makes me gag. And ice cream, which I realize would need a freezer, but this is a fantasy question, right? So we'll all pretend it's the kind of ice cream that doesn't melt 🙂 Or have calories 🙂

Oh, that ice cream sounds perfect! Thanks so much for stopping by, J'nell. I'm sure my readers will enjoy learning a bit more about you. All the best with your latest release!

My review...

American music student Claire Baudin finds herself trapped in Nazi-occupied France. She needs to raise money in order to escape, so she works as a singing barmaid. There, she meets Nazi Captain Michael Reiner. Unbeknownst to Claire, he’s not all that he seems. Instead, he’s a British spy. He can tell Claire is harboring a secret, and he’s determined to find out what it is. Doing so could cost him his assignment, his heart, and his life, especially if his cover is blown. Is it possible for a songbird and a spy to have a future together?

Ciesielski’s sophomore debut shows she has a promising future. The Songbird and the Spy provides an honest look at life during WWII. Vivid detailing holds the reader’s attention as the characters navigate the dangers in Nazi-occupied France, which isn’t the typical locale for many books of this genre. There is a perfect mix of danger and romance. Sharp dialogue and likable characters combine to bring history to life. The story, particularly the ending, is thoroughly enjoyable. The author note provides a lot of information that history buffs will appreciate.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.

Amazon purchase link

About J'nell...

Believing she was born in the wrong era, J'nell Ciesielski spends her days creating heart-stopping heroes, brave heroines, and adventurous exploits in times gone by. Winner of the Romance Through the Ages contest and Maggie Award, J'nell can often be found dreaming of a second home in Scotland, indulging in chocolate of any kind, or watching old black-and-white movies. Born a Florida girl, she now calls Virginia home,a long with her very understanding husband, young daughter, and one lazy beagle. Find out more at http://www.jnellciesielski.com/

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