The Message in a Bottle Romance Collection

by Andrea Renee Cox

Overall, this was an enjoyable collection of stories. I found that the bottle was inconsistent from story to story. I thought it was supposed to have been carried down from generation to generation, but it didn't appear that way once I dove into the novellas.

I've lost my notes on the first story (that notebook ran out, and I'm not sure what happened to it), but here are my thoughts on the others:

A Song in the Night
This might have been my first book by Amanda Dykes, but after seeing the complexity, faith, and hope she masterfully stitched together, I am certain it won't be my last. I liked that Scotland and bagpipes were featured. That added a fun flair to this story. The characters were well developed and easy to root for. One tiny thing that tugged my attention from the story line for a few moments was the use of the modern slang term “cuppa.” This detail didn't detract from the richness of this story.

The Forgotten Hope
Though I appreciated Cal's desire for serious rather than frivolous conversation, he often came across as rude, which did not make for an enjoyable leading man. As for the leading lady, I was disappointed that she became a flirt when she had begun as a smart, serious young woman. The last couple of chapters were more enjoyable, but by that point, I already had lost interest in the characters' journeys.

A River Between Us
Only the second Civil War-era book I've enjoyed (just not my era, I guess), this book was an emotional journey worth taking. I adored June, and characterization was a strong point in this story. The gruesome war surgeries were realistically portrayed (caution advised for those who easily pass out or get squeamish). There were plenty of high tension and twists in the plot. Though I enjoyed this one, there were a few drawbacks for me, which included: profanity, alcohol, and a joke about a chaplain drinking alcohol.

The Swelling Sea
As always, Joanne Bischof shared a story of hope wrapped up in flawed characters a person can root for. Rosie was amazing, particularly for her innocence. What a refreshing character! The only things that interrupted my experience were a few clunky sentence fragments and a sudden flashback that unnecessarily detracted from the climax of the story. Those things don't change how delightful this sweet romance was.

I wish I could find my notes for that first story! I remember enjoying that one, but the details are escaping me now.

I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, authors, and sites like Netgalley, Litfuse Publicity Group, and Blogging for Books. They do not require me to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.