Review ~ The Burning of Rosemont Abbey by Naomi Stephens

1956: In the quiet village of Wilbeth Green, the smoldering ruins of Rosemont Abbey set the residents' tongues wagging, and everyone is quick to accuse troublemaker Paul Everly of being the arsonist. Paul has vanished without a trace, leaving only his twin sister, Louisa, certain of his innocence. Fueling her conviction is an inexplicable connection--she felt her twin's death an hour before the abbey went up in flames. Knowing no one will believe her, Louisa embarks on her own investigation, challenging the skepticism of her neighbors and the disdain of her aunt and uncle. Even Inspector Malcolm Sinclair, once Paul's closest friend, is torn between his duty and a lingering loyalty to Paul and warns Louisa to abandon her pursuit. But Louisa is determined to solve a murder no one else believes was committed, even if it means unraveling secrets that could shake Wilbeth Green to its core. Award-winning author Naomi Stephens presents a gripping whodunnit--reminiscent of the beloved Agatha Christie tales--of love and redemption set in a quaint British village.

Purchase:

Baker Book House

I don't make any money if you use the above link to purchase a book.

 BHB has terrific deals on their titles though!

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My Review 3 STARS

 ‘Louisa felt him die.’

 That first line is a doozy. In fact, the whole scene when Louisa feels her brothers death is emotionally captivating. I really wanted the entire book to be the same. It just wasn’t. Some of the scenes pulled me in, but too many did not. I like a lot of dialogue, which this book does not have. If you like somewhat softer mysteries, you will probably enjoy this one. Stephens is a new author for me and I hope to give her work another try at a later date. I do hear many good things about her stories.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher. A positive review was not required. No compensation has been received.

Review ~ Of Gold and Shadows (Time's Lost Treasures 1) by Michelle Griep

 

368 pages, Paperback; September 24, 2024 by Bethany House Publishers

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About the Book

In 1888 Victorian England, Ami Dalton navigates a clandestine dual life. By day, she strives to establish herself as a respected Egyptologist, overcoming the gender biases that permeate academia. But with a heart for rescuing black-market artifacts, she is most often disguised as her alter ego, the Shadow Broker. After eight years in India, Oxford's most eligible bachelor, Edmund Price, has come out of the shadows to run for Parliament and is in search of an Egyptologist to value a newly acquired collection. Expecting a renowned Oxford professor, Edmund instead finds himself entangled with Ami, the professor's determined daughter. As they delve into the treasures, their connection deepens, but trouble emerges when a golden griffin--rumored to bear the curse of Amentuk--surfaces and they're left to wonder if the curse really is at play, or if something more nefarious is hiding among the shadows.

Purchase:

Baker Book House

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My Review 4 STARS

Griep is well known for her mysterious gothic style stories. I enjoyed Ami and Edmund in Of Gold and Shadows. Their exploits and mutual attraction are enough to keep avid readers involved in the story. History lovers will appreciate the abundance of Egyptian history and the artifacts. As always, mystery and intrigue and romance are woven together to create a delightfully entertaining tale.

Side note: Sarah Zimmerman narrates the audio book. She does an excellent job!!

I received a paperback copy of the book from the publisher, and also purchased an audio copy. I was not required to write a positive review. No compensation has been received.

New Release ~ Night Falls on Predicament Avenue by Jaime Jo Wright

SUMMARY

As the walls of the house at Predicament Avenue reveal their hidden truths, two women--generations apart--discover that fear and foreboding are no respecters of time.

In 1910, Effie James is committed to doing anything to save her younger sister, who witnessed a shocking murder, leaving her mute and in danger of the killer's retribution. Effie must prove what her sister saw, but when a British gentleman arrives, he disrupts Effie's quest with his attempts to locate his wife, Isabelle Addington, who was last seen at the supposed crime scene in the abandoned house at 322 Predicament Avenue. Just as Effie discovers what she seeks, she finds that the blood staining the walls will forever link her to a scandal she couldn't imagine, and to a woman whose secrets promise to curse any who would expose them.

A century later, Norah Richman grapples with social anxiety and grief as she runs her late great-aunt's bed-and-breakfast on Predicament Avenue. But Norah has little affection for the house and is committed only to carrying out her murdered sister's dreams until crime historian and podcaster Sebastian Blaine arrives to investigate the ghostly legacy of the house's claim to fame--the murder of Isabelle Addington. When a guest is found dead, the incident is linked to Isabelle's murder, and Norah and Sebastian must work together to uncover the century-old curse that has wrapped 322 Predicament Avenue in its clutches and threatens far more than death.

Read the excerpt here. Then grab this phenomenal new release here and get 30% OFF plus FREE shipping!!

I am not an affiliate and make no monies if you use the links provided. It is a courtesy on my part only.

Review ~ Julia Monroe Begins Again (Beignets for Two #1) by Rebekah Millet

Julia Monroe has just turned forty and hopes this next decade goes much better than the last, in which she became a young widow raising two children on her own. With both her boys off to college, it's time for new beginnings, and she can finally focus on expanding her New Orleans-based cleaning business--but God has other plans. Samuel Reed, the ruggedly handsome Green Beret who broke her heart over twenty years ago, has returned to town and is the kind of distraction she never saw coming.

After their first interaction in years leaves her mind spinning and her emotions out of control, Julia knows she needs to keep her distance from him if she wants any chance of keeping history from repeating itself, but her meddling best friend has other plans to throw them together. It seems inevitable that Julia will have to face her past with Samuel, but only if she can work up the courage to embrace the kind of new beginning she never thought she'd see again.

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My Review ~ 3 STARS

As much as I wanted to love this contemporary rom-com, I just didn’t. Julia grated on my nerves. Her behavior toward Sam was too much like a resentful and grudge-filled middle school girl. He was a genuine repentant grown man being constantly judged for past behavior. There are plenty of one-liners that are notable but they just didn’t make up for how I felt about Julia. I’m definitely in the minority on this one so don’t take my word. Read it for yourself.

I appreciate the publisher allowing me to review the book through Netgalley. My opinion is my own. No compensation received.

The Legacy of Longdale Manor by Carrie Turansky

About the Book

In 2012, art historian Gwen Monroe travels to England's Lake District to appraise the paintings and antiques of an old family friend, hoping to prove herself to her prestigious grandfather. While at Longdale Manor, she becomes acquainted with David Bradley--the owner's handsome grandson--who is desperate to save the crumbling estate by turning it into a bed-and-breakfast. When Gwen stumbles upon a one-hundred-year-old journal and an intricately carved shepherd's staff similar to one in a photo of her parents, she uncovers a connection to the father she never knew.

In 1912, after her father's death, Charlotte Harper uncovers a painful family secret she can only confess to her journal. She and her family travel to the Lake District to stay on a sheep farm, hoping eventually to find a home with Charlotte's grandfather at Longdale Manor, but old wounds and bitter regrets make it a difficult challenge. As Charlotte grows closer to shepherd Ian Storey and rebuilds her shattered faith, she must decide whether she will ever trust in love again.

Two women a century apart are taken on a journey to healing, faith, and forgiveness in this heartfelt dual-time Edwardian romance from bestselling author Carrie Turansky.

Purchase Link

Bethany House Publishers

Let me know in the comments if you've read any of Carrie Turansky's books. I think I've read them all! She's one of my favorite Christian authors in the market today. Her stories are filled with hope, grace, love, and faith with plots that keep me riveted to the pages. 

Review~ Voice of the Ancient (The King's Men #1) by Connilyn Cosette

 

Bethany House Publishers

August 15, 2023

336 pages

As the eldest son of a Levite and a Philistine, Avidan is torn between his duty to his family legacy and the desire for something more. When Ammonites attack the city of Yavash-Gilead, he takes the opportunity to fight with his cousins for the newly crowned King Saul. But when one of the cousins goes missing during the battle, Avidan stays behind to search for him in hopes that he's still alive.

Keziah is the daughter of one of the most powerful clan chiefs in the territory of Manasseh. On the brink of a forced marriage to a loathsome man decades older than her, she has no choice but to run. Dressed as a boy, she takes her horse and heads for the south, hoping to find sanctuary with her mother's family.

Battling to survive the dangers surrounding them, Avidan and Keziah make a pact to travel together. As Keziah's true origins are revealed and Avidan's search for his cousin becomes increasingly futile, they must not only rely on each other to stay alive but learn to trust the true and eternal King of Israel to guide their every step.

With impeccable research and award-winning writing, bestselling author Connilyn Cossette brings to life the first years of King Saul's reign.

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My Review 4 STARS

Cossette never ceases to amaze me at the depth of research that is obviously done in order to bring readers a story that absolutely draws one in from the first page to the last. Voice of the Ancient tells a story of fierce determination, heartache, love, redemption, and so much more. Be prepared to be immersed in rich historical detail! You may not be able to put this one down.

Fans of historical and biblical fiction will want to grab a copy of this first book in the new The King’s Men series. This is going to be quite a ride!

I received a copy from the publisher, and also purchased a copy. My opinion is my own.

Review ~ Fairest of Heart (Texas Ever After #1) by Karen Witemeyer

Bethany House Publishers, June 2023

352 Pages, Paperback

About the Book

Beauty has been nothing but a curse to Penelope Snow. When she becomes a personal maid for a famous actress whose troupe is leaving Chicago to tour the West, she hides her figure beneath shapeless dresses and keeps her head down. But she still manages to attract the wrong attention, leaving her prospects in tatters--and her jealous mistress plotting her demise.

After his brother lost his life over a woman, Texas ranger Titus Kingsley has learned to expect the worst from women and is rarely disappointed. So when a young woman found in suspicious circumstances takes up residence with the seven old drovers living at his grandfather's ranch, Titus is determined to keep a close eye on her.

With a promotion hanging in the balance, Titus is assigned to investigate a robbery case tied to Penelope's acting troupe. The evidence points to her guilt, but Titus's heart divines a different truth--one that might just get Penelope killed.

An enchanting Western take on the classic Snow White fairy tale, Fairest of Heart will sweep you away from once upon a time to happily ever after.

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My Review 5 STARS!!!

Of all the fairytale retellings I have read, Fairest of Heart is by far my favorite! Witemeyer, in my humble opinion, has raised the bar in this genre.

I felt as if I was transported into the re-release of the first fairytale I ever saw on the big screen in 1967. I can remember the excitement of seeing the characters come alive and as then, today my attention and emotions were fully engaged with Penelope, Titus, Doc and ALL of the old drovers, aka the graybeard brigade, at the Diamond D Ranch. They played across my mind’s eye with ease, bringing great affection for this well written re-telling.

At the same time, I thought it was brilliant to have several POV instances from the seductive villainess Narcissa LaBelle. Boy howdy, she is wicked to the core. Witemeyer perfectly describes her cunning mind and conniving ways. I could not wait to see how Ranger Titus Kingsley was going to catch her and what a great sting it was!

With fabulous descriptions of…well…everything, I can see this becoming one I reread many times! Of course, no one writes western quite like this author so when a beloved classic fairytale meets a pen like Witemeyer wields, it is bound to become a classic in its own right among Christian fiction fans. Truly, the faith thread was so well done for both Penelope and Titus, and their romance is as delectable as apple cider.

I received an early copy of the book from the publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. No compensation has been received.

Have you read any fairytale retellings? If so, let me know in the comments.

Review ~ The Sisters of Sea View (on Devonshire Shores Book 1) by Julie Klassen

Paperback, 448 pages

Expected publication: December 6th 2022 by Bethany House Publishers

About the Book

When their father’s death leaves them impoverished, Sarah Summers convinces her sisters to open their seaside home to guests to provide for their ailing mother. Emily and Georgiana agree, but Viola, who wears a veil to cover a scar, detests the idea. Determined to stay together, the sisters begin the new venture. Instead of the elderly invalids they expect, however, they find themselves hosting eligible gentlemen. Sarah is torn between a growing attraction to a mysterious Scottish widower and duty to her family. Meanwhile, the new situation exposes Viola’s scars--both the visible and those hidden deep within--and her cloistered heart will never be the same.

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My Review 4 STARS

There are many nods to Jane Austen’s classic novels in this latest accomplishment from award winning author Julie Klassen. Delightful words of wonder grace the pages of The Sisters of Sea View in a gentle yet engrossing manner. There is a slow pace to this story that rings true to the time period while exerting just enough adventure to keep readers turning pages. If you’re a fan of historical fiction, perhaps this one will offer you several hours of diversion from life’s cares. I thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in the lives and loves of The Sisters of Sea View. I received an electronic copy from the publisher through Netgalley with no expectation of a favorable review.

 

"I Spy" Premonition GIVEAWAY!!!

This is a fantastic *giveaway* to promote this equally fantastic new release from the highly acclaimed author Jaime Jo Wright. Her stories have what it takes to leave this reader breathless on many occasions!! 

My review is posted here in case you want to know what I thought about the book. 

Don't miss out on this opportunity to win some awesome swag!!!

Join the "I Spy" Premonition GIVEAWAY! How does it work? See Premonition online? Save the link and submit it! See Premonition in a store? Snap a pic and submit it! See Premonition in your library? Snap a pic and submit it! We're playing "I Spy" to see where "The Premonition at Withers Farm" shows up and we need YOU to find it! Once you find it, use this form https://forms.gle/k7XQCmzZNQXN3cvMA to submit your entry!

You'll be entered for the giveaway of a SIGNED COPY OF PREMONITION, a cozy FLANNEL BUFFALO PLAID SCARF, and your choice of COFFEE or TEA! What are you waiting for? Be on the lookout! Contest ends midnight 10/31/2022

One entry per person

 USA entries only

*Stuff & Nonsense is not affiliated with this giveaway in any way, shape, or form.

Review ~ The Premonition at Withers Farm by Jaime Jo Wright

 

Paperback, 400 pages

Expected publication: October 11th 2022 by Bethany House Publishers

In 1910 Michigan, Perliett VanHilton is a self-proclaimed rural healer, leaving the local doctor, George Wasziak, convinced she practices quackery. It doesn't help that her mother, Maribeth VanHilton, is a Spiritualist who regularly offers her services to help others speak to their dearly departed. But when Perliett is targeted by a superstitious killer, she relies on both George and an intriguing newcomer for help.

In the present day, life has not developed the way Molly Wasziak dreamed. Facing depression after multiple miscarriages, Molly is adapting to her husband's purchase of a new farm. A search for a family tree pulls Molly deep into a vintage web of deceptions, made more mysterious by the disturbing shadows and sounds in the old farmhouse.

Perliett fights for her life, and Molly seeks renewed purpose for hers as she uncovers the records of the dead. Will their voices be heard, or will time silence their truths forever?

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My Review 4.5 STARS

‘Molly ducked her head. She watched a tear fall, dropping onto the wood floor, staining it. Yes. She knew. She knew, deep in her heart, she had to move on. To be healthy again. To find healing. To find…meaning. But when an earthly hell came to visit you, it didn’t just go away. It dogged your feet until—Molly glanced at the attic window—until maybe you actually started to see physical ramifications of it. Evil. Abandonment. Loss. It haunted you until it enveloped you entirely.’

The Premonition at Withers Farm is thick with darkness, one in particular that afflicts many women. I did not like Molly as a person but this contemporary aspect of the story is actually what kept me reading. Don’t get me wrong. The historical timeline is so incredibly well-written that it makes the book hard to put down. It does have spiritualist content that was extremely hard for me to read but again, this author is a master at bringing all the pieces together and making them fit.

Wright always, always makes sure the reader knows even though there is darkness, the tiniest bit of light shined in will devastate it, and she brings Christ into this story beautifully.

I received an early advanced reader copy from the publisher through NetGalley, and also purchased a copy.

Review ~ A Feeling of Home | Redemption’s Light 3 | Susan Anne Mason

Bethany House Publishers

July 1, 2022

Within months, Isabelle Wardrop lost her parents, her fortune, and her home. With no options, she is forced to accept help from Dr. Mark Henshaw--the very man she blames for her mother's death. Mark has hopes of earning Isabelle's forgiveness and affections, but an unexpected incident may derail any hope they have of being together.

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My Review 3.5 STARS

There’s something harmonious about Susan Mason’s writing. The long and short of it is that Mason writes historical fiction that keeps my interest by creating riveting characters and intriguing plot lines.

That said, there are several phrases/ideas that caused me to lower my rating on this one. There are references to toxicity in relationships that are definitely modern. The atomic bomb hadn’t been used yet so I don’t think they would know what a “toxic ball” even was. Also, one particular gentleman who claims to be a Christian referred to something as being “a sign from the universe”. That is new age thought, not the thought of any followers of Christ that I have known these last 40 years. I may be a tad nit-picky but to me, these things matter in CF.

None of this stops me from wanting to read any stories Mason publishes in the future though. She writes compelling storylines full of emotion and grace!

I highly recommend this entire series to readers looking for pleasant summer reading. I received a print copy from the author and publisher. No review was required.

Review ~ The Souls of Lost Lake by Jaime Jo Wright

 

About the Book

To save the innocent, they must face an insidious evil.

Wren Blythe has long enjoyed living in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, helping her father with ministry at a youth camp. But when a little girl in the area goes missing, an all-out search ensues, reviving the decades-old campfire story of Ava Coons, the murderess who is believed to still roam the forest. Joining the search, Wren stumbles upon the Coonses' cabin ruins and a sinister mystery she is determined to unearth.

In 1930, Ava Coons has spent the last several years carrying the mantle of mystery since the day she emerged from the woods as a thirteen-year-old girl, spattered with blood, dragging a logger's ax. She has accepted she will never remember what happened to her family, whose bodies were never found, and that the people of Tempter's Creek will always blame her for their violent deaths. And after a member of the town is murdered, and another goes missing, rumors spread that Ava's secret is perhaps more malicious than previously imagined.

Two women, separated by time, must confront a wickedness that not only challenges who they are but also threatens their lives, and the lives of those they love.

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My Review 5 STARS 

“We’re all lost in our own ways. Some of us just hide when we shouldn’t. We hide in our grief, in our minds, in our pain…in the woods…or in a story, like Ava Coons.”

Dual time lines (or time-slip) novels are some of my favorites to read, especially when they are high caliber like The Souls of Lost Lake. The suspense is phenomenal, as always, but there is just something about this tale that grabbed hold of my imagination and will not let go. Maybe because I love “camp fire tales” and my husband and I told so many of them to our children during their growing up years that this book resonated with me as much as it did. I don’t know. I do know that for the last two weeks since I finished the book, Ava Coons still rattles around in my brain almost daily!

Wright turned up the “heebie-jeebies” with this one and provided a feast for the senses. The characters jumped off the paper, cementing themselves in my mind, because they were not going to let me get away. Excellent, excellent summer reading!!! I’d give this book 10 stars if I could!

I was provided a copy by the publisher through Netgalley. No compensation has been received.

Review | Turn to Me | A Misty River Romance #3 | Becky Wade

His promise will cost him far more than he imagined.

Guilt has defined Luke Dempsey's life, but it was self-destructiveness that landed him in prison. When his friend and fellow inmate lay dying shortly before Luke's release, the older man revealed he left a string of clues for his daughter, Finley, that will lead her to the treasure he's hidden. Worried that she won't be the only one pursuing the treasure, he gains Luke's promise to protect her until the end of her search.

Spunky and idealistic, Finley Sutherland is the owner of an animal rescue center and a defender of lost causes. She accepts Luke's help on the treasure hunt while secretly planning to help him in return--by coaxing him to embrace the forgiveness he's long denied himself.

As they draw closer to the final clue, their reasons for resisting each other begin to crumble, and Luke realizes his promise will push him to the limit in more ways than one. He'll do his best to shield Finley from unseen threats, but who's going to shield him from losing his heart? 

My Review 3.5 STARS 

'Luke Dempsey was a tragic and thorny case. Many would say he was a lost cause.'

Wade wraps up her Misty River Romance series quite well in Turn to Me. I was delighted to finally read Luke’s story, and at the same time see Ben get his as a small side story in the book.

The redemption thread here for “bad boy” ex-con Luke is phenomenal! Maybe that is why there was so much emphasis put on his physical desire for Finley. It’s pretty descriptive. I appreciated the author repeatedly, through Finley and others, communicating to Luke that he was not beyond redemption. Our past does not have to define us in the present. This message came across very strong. And it was a beautiful thing to see work out in Luke.

The best part of Finley’s story for me was reading about her dad and how she grew up a “free spirit” and dresses sort of Bohemian. But I’m not a dog fanatic or interested in constantly hearing about animal rights etc. so that really put a damper on this part of the story for me.

All in all, fans of Wade will be satisfied with this series and its ending. I know I thoroughly enjoyed the overall story of The Miracle Five. I look forward to whatever she has coming next year!

I was provided an electronic copy of the book from the publisher through Netgalley. No compensation has been received.

Rebecca Reviews ~ In Search of a Prince by Toni Shiloh

Paperback, 352 pages

Published February 1st 2022 by Bethany House Publishers

Brielle Adebayo is fully content teaching at a New York City public school and taking annual summer vacations with her mother to Martha's Vineyard. But everything changes when her mom drops the mother of all bombshells--Brielle is a princess in the kingdom of Ọlọrọ Ilé, Africa, and she must immediately assume her royal position, since the health of her grandfather, King Tiwa Jimoh Adebayo, is failing.

Distraught by her mother's betrayal, Brielle is further left spinning when the Ọlọrọ Ilé Royal Council brings up an old edict that states she must marry before assuming the throne or the crown will be passed to another. Uncertain who to choose from the council's list of bachelors, she struggles with the decision along with the weight of her new role in a new country. With her world totally shaken, she must take a chance on love and brave the perils a wrong decision may bring.

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Rebecca's Review 3.5 stars

"You are Brielle Eden Adebayo, daughter of Prince Naade Tayo Adebayo, and heir to the throne of Oloro Ile."

She's who??? To say that Brielle Adebayo is stunned to learn of her true heritage is a massive understatement; even more shocking is the fact that her mother kept something this monumental a secret for so many years. Brielle woke up one morning as an ordinary middle school teacher and finished her day as the princess of an entire African kingdom. Who does that? It appears that Brielle and her best friend Iris have a road trip on their horizon . . . . or in actuality, an international flight.

Meeting her grandfather for the first time, Brielle is both humbled and saddened; sad because the king's health is failing so quickly, and humbled because his fragility puts Brielle in the precarious position of fast tracking her decision on whether or not to accept or reject the throne. Would the royal council even consider approving an American woman who does not even speak their language yet or know anything about their culture? And then . . . . . there is the matter of an historic edit requiring Brielle to marry before assuming the thrown. God help her!

Admittedly, the story seemed so much like a modern day fairy tale that eventually I realized that of course, it was. Thankfully a mighty river of rich spiritual depth flows underneath the "boy meets girl", and the "happily ever after" elements of this entertaining novel. Every decision is preceded by prayer and each person is treated with kindness and respect even when it was hard. And mistakes? Not easily forgotten, but genuinely forgiven. And friendship? What a gift.

Drum roll please . . . . . then along comes a most unexpected blessing, just who a princess-want-to-be needs, but not necessarily what the traditional royals deem appropriate. However, there is this, " . . . . I do believe I love you more than ice cream".

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

Review ~ Shadows of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen + Giveaway

 

About the Book

In pursuit of an author who could help get her brother published, Rebecca Lane stays at Swanford Abbey, a grand hotel rumored to be haunted. It is there she encounters Sir Frederick--the man who broke her heart. When a mysterious death occurs, Rebecca is one of the suspects, and Frederick is torn between his feelings for her and his search for the truth.

Purchase:

Christian Book Distributors

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My Review 4 STARS

Julie Klassen has written an intriguing story laced with much mystery. In classic Klassen fashion, the characters are well-developed, dialogue is engaging, and the plot is interesting enough to satisfy the most discriminating reader. Although at a hefty 403 pages, I did think it was a bit wordy which slowed it down for me.

Fans of historical fiction will enjoy this latest offering by a most beloved author in the Christian fiction genre.

I was provided a copy by the publisher. No review was required. No compensation received.

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I know many of my friends have read this book and others by Julie. Have you read any of her books? If so, do you have a favorite? I think mine would be a toss up between The Silent Governess and The Girl in the Gatehouse, both which are excellent historical romances!!! 

Let's chat in the comments!!! 

I'll send my copy of the book to one person who leaves a comment, along with their email address, and also follows the blog through the GFC widget in the side bar. US ONLY (48 contiguous states) Ends Feb 7th. 

Rebecca Reviews ~ The Barrister and the Letter of Marque | Todd M. Johnson + GIVEAWAY

As a barrister in 1818 London, William Snopes has witnessed firsthand the danger of only the wealthy having their voices heard, and he's a strong advocate who defends the poorer classes against the powerful. That changes the day a struggling heiress, Lady Madeleine Jameson, arrives at his door.

In a last-ditch effort to save her faltering estate, Lady Jameson invested in a merchant brig, the Padget. The ship was granted a rare privilege by the king's regent: a Letter of Marque authorizing the captain to seize the cargo of French traders operating illegally in the Indian Sea. Yet when the Padget returns to London, her crew is met by soldiers ready to take possession of their goods and arrest the captain for piracy. And the Letter--the sole proof his actions were legal--has mysteriously vanished.

Moved by the lady's distress, intrigued by the Letter, and goaded by an opposing solicitor, Snopes takes the case. But as he delves deeper into the mystery, he learns that the forces arrayed against Lady Jameson, and now himself, are even more perilous than he'd imagined. 

PURCHASE: Baker Book House (Pre-Release SALE)

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"Who are these people? Why are they doing this? What do they want?"

What a brilliant historical thriller; begging the rather predictable question of "who done it", while simultaneously focusing on the unpredictability of "who" will come to the aid of the innocent, ensuring that readers will remain steadfastly engaged until the very end. Some rather unlikely heroes come forward with the truth, legitimizing the barrister's confident statement that, "the case will . . . be won or lost in the courtroom."

The barrister being referred to is of course the notoriously clever William Snopes, whose cunning, unorthodox methodology has begrudgingly earned the man a great deal of respect. This case however, is different from any other, for William must decide whether or not Lady Jameson and her uncle, Captain Harold Tuttle, are worth facing down the Crown, for the Letter of Marque has simply disappeared. . . . . assuming it had ever existed.

In spite of the rather methodical beginning, as most legal plots tend to require, this story gained momentum rather quickly as each and every character darted in and out of the shadows of possibilities, climbed in and out and around every obstacle and relentlessly pushed towards the inevitable certainty that the light of truth would prevail . . . and in this case, not a moment too soon.

"If lies are so unnatural, then remind me what truth is in this world, Mr. Snopes, and how it can be hidden so. I've forgotten.

Father Thomas will tell you from his profession that it is God's most fundamental trait. The essence of who He is. In the courtroom, truth is tool and brick: powerful to wield and the only foundation for real justice."

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, and also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

**GIVEAWAY RULES**

Rebecca is offering a copy of The Barrister and the Letter of Marque to one commenter. 

1-Be sure and leave your email address in a non-spammy format (jane at doe dot com). 

No email. No entry.

US only (48 contiguous states)

2-Be kind and say hello, not just "Enter me." 

Thanks!!!

Giveaway ends August 4th.