Sara

Even though I enjoy books in this genre, sometimes they can seem very similar – almost as if you've read it before. Not Starfish Pier – it had many characteristics that made it stand out. Irene Hannon is an author that I never have to wonder when I pick up her books if it will be worth my time – she always delivers! One of the things she does best is create characters that are realistic, and not stereotypical. The characters in Starfish Pier have health challenges both physically and mentally. These challenges bring depth and dimension to their interactions and their relationships. Somehow Irene Hannon tackles many heavy topics but in a very tactful way. Alcoholism, capital punishment, abortion, and assisted suicide all play a role throughout. While all of these topics are deep, the way it is written will have you cruising through the pages. I enjoyed the perspectives of the different characters and how they were woven together with messages of hope. The setting of Hope Harbor is a charming seaside town that brings a sense of serenity and family atmosphere. You will not want to leave. If you are looking for a sweet romance that tackles deeper topics, this would be a great pick! I would recommend this one for a book club as well – you won't be disappointed.

The Number of Love is truly all about the numbers. This was the first book by Roseanna M. White that I have read and boy was it a good place to start. The first book in her series “The Codebreakers”. The author weaves historical information with the fictional characters and scenes beautifully. Margot, one of the main characters, is intelligent, independent and forward thinking. I enjoyed reading about a woman who is portrayed in this light, when this would have been against the cultural norm of the era. If you are a fan of numbers, you will be intrigued by the codes and numbers throughout that make up Margot's thoughts, job and world. Without giving any spoilers, Room 40 and cryptography are now on my list to research. This read was fascinating to say the least. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. If you are looking for a mystery that captivates not only your emotions but is thought provoking, The Number of Love will do the trick.

**I received a review copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and this is my honest review.

Emily P. Freeman's book, The Next Right Thing, has done the same as her previous book, Simply Tuesday, become a turning point. She writes with such simplicity yet her words are deeply rooted. Every chapter is titled with an “action phrase”, like Chapter 2 is Become a Soul Minimalist and Chapter 13 is Don't Rush Clarity. This alone is one of my favorite things about the book. You can just read the Contents page and you will already be on the path to The Next Right Thing. Simple statements that make an impact.

She punctuates each chapters end with a prayer and a practice section. Both are great sections to meditate on and absorb. Even if you don't have clarity, you must act as mentioned in the book. The chapters flow with simple, soulful practices and wisdom that will guide you to keep moving forward.

If you are not looking for another guru, but rather a simple step by step guide you will not be disappointed. The Next Right Thing is on my favorites list!

*Thank you to Revell  for my copy in exchange for my honest book review. All opinions are my own.

Books about summer, settings that include a body of water , an author you know will not disappoint – all reasons that I chose to add this to my summer reading list. Not surprised at all that it checked off each box and earned it's spot. I enjoyed the storyline of the three sisters who all hold juicy secrets that come bubbling to the surface and discovering how they would resolve the issues at hand.

Summer by The Tides will tug at your heartstrings from the moment the three sisters arrive at their grandmother's Seahaven cottage to find her missing. Those dynamics continue until the end when generational family secrets are exposed. Each sister has her own problems hiding behind closed doors, but it doesn't take long for them to come barreling out. The angst between two of the sisters is one I have not yet read in a book, so it was interesting to see how the riff was tackled. “Drawing a line in the sand” brought about many meanings in different chapters. Coastal, boating and ocean themes were brilliantly sprinkled throughout. My coastal loving heart couldn't have been more smitten with every line I read with a metaphor in it.

And then there is Grams – oh Grams. She doesn't come on the scene until the last few chapters, but boy does she make a statement. She is in her eighties, spunky and says just what she is thinking. One of her lines is “But things aren't always as they seem.” and that one line sums up the book!

Love is too big a risk or is it? That is the question that is pondered throughout. Before I even opened the book to read it, I knew it would be a winner. Denise Hunter always has a way of pulling me into her stories. Summer by The Tides is no different.

Grab Summer By The Tides and toss it in your beach or pool bag. It has a great story and touches on family dynamics and everything that comes along with it. Enjoy this coastal read!

NOTE: I received an e-copy of this book for review via NetGalley and Celebrate Lit. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Mind Games was the first book by Nancy Mehl that I have read and it did not disappoint. With the setting being in St. Louis, which is my hometown, it made the story come to life even more. A few of the details were a bit predictable but for the most part I enjoyed the twists and turns. If you are like myself and enjoy psychology, Kaely (main female character) and her methods were very intriguing. I have a degree in psychology, so discovering Kaely's past and how it influenced her current life and occupation were fascinating. Hopefully the next book in the series will delve into Noah Hunter (male character) as his character felt distant and incomplete . Mind Games is a psychological suspense with an intelligent female character who has endured a terrible secret crime and uses it for good. Don't want to give away any spoilers! If you like non-gory, psychological crime shows or books, you will enjoy this read.

The Light of Day is the third book in the Nantucket Legacy series. It stands alone but reading the previous books enhances the stories that weave through the pages and years. This book follows Hitty and Henry into adult hood while they decide how they handle their new inheritance, which comes with stipulations. Nantucket is changing through the generations and they will need to make decisions about their futures. But it's not a simple choice, as they must both accept the rules of the inheritance or it goes to the next in line, their deceitful Uncle Tristram. Without giving away any pieces of the story, I must say my favorite chapters always have the “hidden treasure” by the oak tree weaved into them. Seeing how Hitty and Henry work through their inheritance situation is inspiring and a good reminder of what is important. This book would be a great winter read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.

Thank you to Revell for my copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

I've always been interested in the history of old homes or estates, wondering what would be told if walls could talk. In A Sparkle of Silver, journal entries from Millie's great-grandmother do the talking. Millie learns about her families past by reading the journal entries and the mysteries that line the pages. While her grandmother is struggling with dementia, she still has glimpses of the past and offers Millie tidbits of information that fill in gaps from the journal. Millie begins searching for answers to questions that are unveiled of her ancestors by taking a job at the Dawkins' Estate mentioned in the diary. Ben Thornton works at the estate as a security guard and through a twist of events begins helping Millie with her search for answers. He is hiding secrets of his own past that have landed his mother in prison. Even though he was only a child when his mother deceived others, he is haunted by her mistakes and is on a mission to bring restoration. Together, Millie and Ben, set out on a treasure hunt of sorts to find answers to many mysteries. What they uncover is painful and shocking, bringing a sudden halt to their blooming relationship. But with the wise words of Millie's forgetful grandmother and Ben's boss at his second job, they wade through the deep waters to find peace. A Sparkle of Silver is a fun, engaging and wisdom filled novel. It's an easy and enjoyable read with a few twists and turns along the way!

Thank you to NetGalley & Revell for my e-copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Louisiana Elefante was introduced to readers in Raymie Nightingale. Although this book can be read as a stand alone, I would recommend you start with Raymie's story. This book will take you on a roller coaster of emotions as you journey along with Louisiana. She's thrown into some odd situations that she handles with strength, grit and grace. She meets interesting characters along the way, all while figuring out some of life's challenges. This book deals with unusual friendships, wisdom beyond years and less than perfect circumstances. Life is not a fairytale and neither is Louisana's Way Home.

More in depth review at : http://coastandanchor.com/kate-dicamillo-louisiana-rosie/

The first book I read and purchased by Myquillyn was The Nesting Place. When I had the opportunity to be part of a launch group for her second book, I couldn't pass up the chance at getting an inside look. After reading the first few chapters, I pre-ordered my own copy! Now that I have received my copy and read it, I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a way to stop managing your stuff but rather enjoy the space you live in. She writes as though you are sitting and discussing your home with a friend. The book is full of ideas and steps to take to create a home you will love. It's not about minimalism, nor simply home decorating. It's about finding a space that is cozy and not packed full of “stuff” that you have to manage. If you are looking for practical solutions, ideas and inspiration for minimizing your decor to become something you adore, then this book is for you. It would make a beautiful coffee table book. I would recommend this for yourself or to give as a gift to a friend, sister, mother-in-law or teacher! Can't wait for the full copy to arrive in the mail!

In this 31 day devotional you will explore Jane Austen's personal prayers that were written during her evening prayer. By reading and studying these prayers, you will feel as if you are getting to know Jane and her faith. Scriptures are used throughout the devotions to bring Jane's prayers to light. Even though it is a devotional, it is written as such that anyone can read and gain understanding and insight into Jane's faith journey. You also do not need to be a devoted reader of Austen's works (although who wouldn't be) in order to be encouraged and inspired by the words that are so eloquently broken down and presented. At the end of each devotion is a reflection and prayer that will inspire you daily in your faith. Whether you are an avid Jane Austen fan, simply looking for a devotional or just interested in learning about Jane's faith, this book is highly recommended. Such an elegant, joyful read that matches Jane's writing style!

Thank you to NetGalley & Bethany House Publishers for my e-copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Posted on blog, Amazon, LibraryThing & Christianbook.com

Hitting the Books is the ninth book in A Library Lover's Mystery Series. Even though it is the ninth book, I have not read the others and felt informed enough to read it as a stand alone. But I will be going back to read the others, as it was an enjoyable read. What could be more exciting than a librarian, a stack of borrowed books and solving a murder! Although this is a mystery, it was a fun read and made you want to find out more about the quirky characters. Lindsey, the main character, is kind, energetic, and is always digging deeper to find answers. She and her boyfriend Sully are at an awkward place in their relationship, so they are working out a few challenges. One of the challenges that I think many women will appreciate is Lindsey's hesitation in telling Sully about not wanting to have children. While trying to solve the mysteries of her heart, she and her circle of friends from the library are swept right into the middle of a crime. Everyone in the town of Bear Creek is on high alert, and the strange events continue to occur. There small town made up of quirky people seem to have secrets hidden beneath the surface and Lindsey is determined to find out who is behind the attack on her friend and her town. Theresa, a pro tennis player who is dating the wealthy, widowed town furniture dealer, seems to be the one taking the brunt of misfortune. She was hit by a car, her home was broken into and then she is kidnapped. But the list of who could be behind these terrible events is growing with every new crime committed. Lindsey soon discovers she will be a part of the investigation due to library materials found in the hit-and-run vehicle. Piece by piece Lindsey and the police chief begin to tie the crimes all together to solve the mystery. I don't want to give any spoilers, as the story takes a few twists and turns in all of the right places. As we head into fall, this would be a great book to read on a chilly evening. Or if you are like me and live by the ocean, it's a perfect beach read!

If you are looking for a historical rom-com, this book is sure to delight. I wasn't sure what to expect in this historical fiction, but quickly realized that it was full of laughs, suspense and unpredictable characters. The story begins with a kidnapping of Temperance Flowerdew that quickly turns into a comedic train ride to Chicago with two not-so-clever kidnappers. The characters interactions will take you on a roller coaster ride of laughing and questioning the predicaments they find themselves in. You are not sure if you should dislike the kidnapping duo or try to understand their viewpoint as Temperance Flowerdew attempts. Temperance finds herself being “rescued” by an old friend, Gilbert Cavendish, and they soon find themselves in awkward and damaging dilemma. Temperance has finally found her independence and does not want anyone telling her what to do, especially Gilbert. All the while Gilbert is trying to keep her safe and find out who and why she was kidnapped in the first place. The story takes a sharp turn when they arrive back in New York and begin to unravel the mystery. This book is light hearted, but not lacking in plot or character. It's a fun read that will have you picking the book up just to see what could possibly happen next. Even though this book is the third in a series, I was unaware of that when I first read it and didn't feel as though I was missing anything.

Thank you to NetGalley & Bethany House Publishers  for my e-copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

While I am not one to read YA as my first choice, I was pleasantly surprised by this one. To be completely transparent, I couldn't put it down and completed it in one sitting. It is written from two characters perspectives which I found to be a unique style but they are also male and female character. The chapters volley from Jordan to his new stepsister, Kassidy both are 17 years old and develop a unique friendship and bond. While they are both getting used to their new family dynamics of a blended family, they are also experiencing the every day emotions that come with school, sports, relationships and friendships. The story takes a turn here and there keeping you engaged and wondering what is coming next. I look forward to reading more works by this author.

*Thank you to LibraryThing and New Shelves Books for my copy of this e-book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

A Secret to Die For is fast-paced, suspenseful and emotional. A psychologist, a detective with PTSD, a brilliant hacker and an off the grid father – those are the characters that compose this action packed conspiracy. Psychologist, Grace Callahan, discovers that a client has left her with something crucial, yet she doesn't know what it is or where it is or even why he left it for her. She has no choice but to begin digging for answers to those questions, as her life depends on it. Detective Nate Quinn is cleared for duty and he is faced with a new case where he is reunited with a college friend involved in a twisted case. As details begin to emerge so does the action, Grace is being hunted down with each new clue she unravels. Nate's PTSD is haunting him and holding him back from the emotions he is feeling toward Grace. Who can they trust? Are they following the right leads? Should Grace be involved at all? Are the feelings they have for each other driven by adrenaline or true affection? All of these questions beg to be answered as the story unfolds. There are plenty of twists and turns that make this a riveting romance and suspense novel. If you enjoy suspense and crime novels, but are looking for one that has a bit of heart then you have found your next book.

I'm a rule follower to a fault. But this is one type of rebel I could align with – a Rebel Librarian! Before we get into what I love about this book, let's get one minor distraction out of the way. It's not really that negative and most middle grade students will likely not even notice the improbability surrounding the magnitude of books banned . Very drastic measures were taken in the library with regard to removal of “banned” books, which were challenged by parents in the school. In reality, librarians have additional resources that would have been implemented compared to what the librarian in the story was able to accomplish. But as I stated, I don't think it detracts from the moral of the story. Now to get to it! This book made me want to stand up and cheer for the main character, June Harper. She respected authority while also challenging it. She had to make important decisions about who to align herself with. She asserted herself and stood up for what she believed – the right to read books of all kinds. I think this is a great read for 5-7th graders, although it is listed as middle grade. There is a bit of relationship drama that is more early YA, but nothing a mature middle grader can't handle. As a book lover, little library hunter and mom to two daughters (age 6 and 10), this book is one that I will be purchasing for them to read. This would also make for a great discussion book for classrooms, families or kids book club. It introduces many topics that are important in our current culture, but brings them to a level that is understandable for middle grade to young adults. It has themes that embrace empowering young girls to stand up for what they know is right, encourages reading of diverse books and developing unlikely friendships. After reading this book, I would like to cheer aloud for the Rebel Librarian in us all! Stand up for the freedom to read!

With a setting by the sea and a Captain as the main character, I couldn't wait to dig in. Upon first opening the book, I discovered a “Cast of Characters” page and a “Glossary” page. This always makes me wonder if the story is going to be confusing and the characters lacking, hence the reason for an explanation before you get started. Neither was the case, in fact both were appreciated and I referred back to them to double check. The glossary is defining whaling terms, nautical expressions of the 19th century in Nantucket, as well as Quaker specific terms. There are two storylines spanning different time periods woven together to create a thought provoking and insightful view of Nantucket Island beginnings.

One story is presented via letters from the 17th century passed down from generation to generation. The main plot surrounds the people of Nantucket Island during the 19th century. There are numerous topics that the author tackles such as addiction, prejudice, slavery, faith, hypocrisy, love and triumph! This book did not disappoint! No character was lacking and I felt as if I knew them. I found myself pondering some of the tough topics and wondering what I would do in their shoes. The book is filled with great quotes to ponder (a few listed below). And the ending was a twist that warmed my heart!

“An arch is an architectural marvel. It holds together because the stones are carved to fit together perfectly. ‘Tis all about the keystone, Mary. Think on that.”

“The sea is my church. The ocean preaches the best sermons.”

“What might shift in my heart if God were to unveil my eyes and show me that despite my fears and uncertainties, I'm actually surrounded by his powerful protection and presence?”

Minding the Light was a book that grabbed my attention, drew me into the story and then left me pondering my own truths. This is a book I highly recommend! I can not wait to read the other books in the Nantucket Legacy.

A Christmas by the Sea is one of those books that you just want to curl up with a blanket, your favorite cup of tea while you dream of the small seaside town you are reading about. The characters are likeable and believable, in a way just ordinary. It begins with Wendy, a widow and mother of a 12 year old boy, doing her best to make ends meet, while protecting her son from growing up too fast. Although she quickly realizes that kids pick up on things more than adults give them credit for. Jackson, her 12 year old son, is embracing this small town vibe and flourishing at that. Although a blooming love story is woven throughout, it's subtle and doesn't feel cheesy. I enjoyed the family history that was uncovered and the seaside escapades that were sprinkled throughout. It's one of those books that reminds you of the simple things but yet the impact they have on our hearts and overall well being. This book is what I would consider a quick read. Although I did find the beginning to stretch on for a bit, I still enjoyed the storyline and characters. So if you want something quick, light and uplifting then I would recommend A Christmas by the Sea.

I have not read any of the authors books prior to As The Tide Comes In, BUT now I will be adding them to my reading pile. Tara Abbott, the main character, will capture your heart from the very beginning. She's a fighter, adventurous, courageous and loving. Despite her circumstances or what is put in her path, she keeps trudging on. The stories backdrop begins in the mountains of Georgia and picks up on St. Simon's Island in North Carolina alongside the ocean. You will experience a full range of emotions from anger to grief, laughter to love. It delivers on them all while beautifully weaving a story that you feel as though you are right in the middle of. And once you meet the supporting characters the Glynn Girls (just think Golden Girls) and the charming, patient hero Gavin, you will not be able to put this book down. Oh how I want to meet the Glynn Girl's on St. Simon's Island! They put a twist of comedy to lighten the grief and sorrow Tara is feeling from loss of her family and physical pain from a head injury. That is the only detail I will unveil. You need to ride the wave of emotions for yourself that this book delivers with a punch. You will not be left with sadness but filled with joy and wisdom along the way. This is a book you will want to add to your reading list!

Let me start by saying that Colleen Coble is one of my go-to authors. I truly have a shelf in my library dedicated to her works alone. Freedom's Light sets the scene from a lighthouse on the Atlantic Ocean and takes you back to the Revolutionary War. The main character is young Hannah, married to a lighthouse keeper who leaves to fight in the war, while she is left to tend the lights for the ships passing by. Though she has many troubles, most are not consequences from her own actions but that of others. Her husband meets his demise after being deemed a spy. Her sister is determined to marry a Tory and not just any Tory, but one that Hannah despises. A shipwreck occurs on her watch that injures Captain Birch, who then comes under Hannah's care. Hannah clings to her faith to see her through each struggle and burden she faces. This story is about faith, love, revenge and history. Although many of the themes are deep-rooted, somehow Coble manages to illuminate the positive and it does not feel heavy. Historical fiction that was suspenseful with a touch of inspiration and romance. Although not my favorite book by Colleen Coble, it is worth the read.

For a regency novel it had a very unique storyline, one that was intriguing, highlighting the outcast due to others mistakes but also one of redemption, grace and trust. The main characters Kit and Graham drew you in and had you rooting for them by the end of the first chapter. Although there is a dark underlying story weaved throughout the pages that revolves around illegitimate children (by-blows) and a heroine who puts everything on the line for her cause, the words on the pages remain fresh and even humorous at times. Several times I had to remind myself that blackmailing is not a worthy cause, because I found myself backing The Governess in her grand scheme of getting revenge. The last few chapters leave you thinking deeply with lines such as “Did you even give them a chance?”, “That's not the way grace works.” or “He (God) wasn't confined to the solutions she could conceive.” and many more. At one point in the storyline near the end, I found Graham to be a bit frustrating in that he didn't know if he could forgive Kit which went against the spiritual advice he was giving out. Although I have not read the prequel, it probably would be helpful in order to understand how Kit and Daphne found themselves in the situation they were in. If you are like myself and tend to read books based on mood or season, then this would be a great book to grab for a rainy day on the couch or cozied up by a fire in the fall.

Thank you to Bethany House Publisher for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Not only is this a re-telling of the original Pride and Prejudice, but the storyline of the book includes a production of the play (Pride and Prejudice) in a local theatre. Although it loosely follows the storyline and hits several major plot points of Pride and Prejudice, it stands on its own in case you are not familiar with the original classic. Whether you are an Austen fan or not, you can still enjoy the story and get to know the contemporary characters. One of the ways this book stands apart is the production of the play, but that also made the characters not as believable. They don't seem to realize how close they portray the roles they are assigned in the play which I find odd. They are also practicing or preparing for the play a majority of the time. I would have appreciated more depth in the character development outside of play practice. I enjoyed the lines quoted from Pride & Prejudice and how they were incorporated throughout the pages. There is a spiritual perspective woven in but I would consider it to be very light. In my opinion, it is more of a sprinkled-in approach over writing it from a spiritual aspect.

A few fun facts: The author gives you a list of characters and who they are likened to in the book. The characters initials mimic those of the names they are likened to (Dave Davidson as Mr. Darcy and Eddi Boswick as Elizabeth Bennet).

First Impressions is Christian Fiction so it does have a spiritual angle to it, which some readers may not appreciate or find out of character. Although it is a re-telling, I prefer to read it on its own and not compare as that can lead to disappointment. Whether you have read the original or not, you can enjoy this fresh, modern take on a classic.

I received my copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

A Most Noble Heir was full of twists and turns. It follows a rags to riches theme with a dose of love, betrayal, faith and a hint of mystery. This story reveals that all throughout time, people made mistakes that affected generations to come. Scandals are covered up, love sometimes brings about pain and the truth always comes out are just a few of the seeds that are planted and then developed in this tale.

I enjoy tales that transport me to English estates with gardens, formal dining rooms and parlors. It is not a book with intricate historical details, but you will be whisked back to a time of formality but also simplicity. The story takes place in 1884 with the setting at Stainsby Hall in Derbyshire, England. Because the writing has a more contemporary language style, it is a very easy read.

The characters were well rounded and developed throughout the story. Although Aunt Iris is a supporting character and not a main character, she became my favorite character to read about. She is not introduced until later in the story but becomes an integral part of tying up all of the loose ends. She is a woman who is eloquent in her words, soft when needing to be and direct when necessary. The main characters in the story, Hannah and Nolan, are discovering that their families choices as well as their own choices have consequences far greater than can be imagined. If you like Downtown Abbey, this will be right up your alley.

This story was lightly based on the author's discovery and research of her own ancestry. Her great-great-grandfather was a stable hand at an English estate called Stainsby Hall. He had married a kitchen maid, but their story had a very different ending. She used her research and her imagination to create a story that developed from this relationship.

I recommend this book for those who like historical romance fiction and an easy read.

*many thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy. All opinions are my own.

Thank you to Bethany House Publisher for my copy of Hearts Entwined in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Hearts Entwined is comprised of four historical romance novellas written by different authors. Each novella has its own theme but all surrounding the topic of love. Each of the novellas has twists and humor wrapped into the story lines which made it a fun and quick read.

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer
Claire Nevin's was young and determined to go her own way. But despite her determination and passion to start a new life, her sister sends an untimely letter with an unexpected message. She faces the challenges before her with determination and holds her own - even with her ‘extra' responsibilites.

The Tangled Ties That Bind by Mary Connealy
After being left behind, Maggie has figured out that being a doctor is her passion. She embarks on a journey to be trained and then take on her own practice. Her long lost beau, Connor Kincaid, comes waltzing back to town only to realize he may have missed out on what he came back to capture - Maggie's heart. Do they have to give up their dreams for love.....you will have to read to find out....no spoilers here! We all know the answer......it's not a mystery!

Bound and Determined by Regina Jennings
Private Bradley Willis is sent on a mission after not following orders during a sticky situation. His new mission has become quite comical due to camels, a retired officer and his spunky daughter. Ambrosia Herald is not about to let anyone side rail her mission which is to undermine her fathers attempt to keep his beloved camels. This novella is quite humorous and almost unbelievable. But despite that, it makes for a lighthearted, quirky read.

Tied and True by Melissa Jagears
The last novella in the book is my favorite! Marianne Lister comes from a prestigious and wealthy family, but that does not stop her from following her heart. No one is going to stop her and she sets out to prove, she will WIN! Not only does she break out from the stereotypes of gender, but she also pushes the boundaries of social class. By doing this, she finds a passion of helping others, women specifically. Her heart knows no boundaries when it comes to love and helping those in need.

I enjoyed reading all four novellas, but the one that captured my attention and tugged at my heartstrings the most was Tied and True. The book was an easy read and one you can pick up right where you left off.

First things first, I am not a huge historical fiction fan, so I put this book at the bottom of my pile. I have not read any of the author's previous works, but I will pick up the next books in this series. I enjoyed the book to some degree although as you will see below there were some parts that left me disappointed.

The setting begins in England and then travels to the West Indies in 1772. Due to some unfortunate financial woes of their father, three sisters inherit his estates and have to make some tough decisions. They choose to go the unconventional route and travel to the West Indies via ship. Here lies my first disappointment - this is an almost unbelievable journey in the story. During that time period, what occurs on their travels to the West Indies is not historically accurate. So if you are one who likes historical fiction, I would say this book will be an annoying if not frustrating read. I already stated that historical fiction is not my type of book, so I kept reading it for the story and not the history or accuracy of the time period.

While I enjoyed the sisterly bond between the three sisters, some of their interactions left me rolling my eyes. I do believe the author was going for strong female characters, but in my opinion two of the sisters missed that mark. Maybe their strength will come out in future books in this series.

The main characters, Keturah and Gray, are both unlikable. I struggled to connect with them. Her interest in him was awkward and his interaction with her was the same. Their romantic connection fell flat. The book mentions some very heavy topics (rape, slavery, violence, etc.) although doesn't go into great detail. There is a enough that I do think it is worth mentioning and being aware of while reading.

I was most looking forward to the setting in the West Indies as I have not read many books that have used that location. This did not disappoint! I enjoyed the journey via ship and the West Indies.

All in all, this was not an easy read. I will read the other books in the series out of curiosity.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher (Bethany House). All opinions expressed are my own and I was not required to give a favorable one.

With this being [a:Jaime Jo Wright 13916081 Jaime Jo Wright https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1447624511p2/13916081.jpg] debut novel, I can definitely say that I hope she has more on the way! She has a way with words and nothing is missed in the details, from the first word to the very last page. On the edge of my seat is truly how I would describe this riveting book. With two storylines that intertwine together and flow across time periods, it captivates your heart and sense of adventure. One minute I was processing the scene, the next I was haunted by the words and at other times, hopeful for love. Just when I was pondering a “how” or “who” or “what”, she swoops back in gives you a hint or one more piece of information. Her female characters are right up my alley - bold, adventurous and able to hold their own. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for solid female main characters. This book weaves historical periods, mystery, crime and a bit of romance in a perfect blend.**Thank you to Bethany House Publishers for a free copy for review. A positive review was not required and is my own humble opinion.