AH!!! I'm so excited for you all to read this book! And the others in the series! They are so, so good!!
And . . . there's a surprise for anyone who makes it to the bottom of the page before surrendering to boredom. ;)
Description:
What more can you sacrifice than your life?
Parvin Blackwater is dead.
At least that’s what the Council—and the world—thinks. But her sacrifice tore down part of the Wall long enough to stir up hope and rebellion in the people. Now she will rise again. Strong, free, and fearless.
Parvin and Solomon must uncover the mysterious clues that Jude left behind in order to destroy the projected Wall once and for all. Meanwhile, the Council schemes to new levels of technology in its attempts to keep the people contained. Can a one-handed Radical and a scarred ex-Enforcer really bring shalom to the world?
About the Author:
Nadine learned to write her alphabet with a fountain pen. In Kindergarten. Cool, huh? Maybe that's what started her love for writing. She started journaling at age nine and thus began her habit of communicating via pen and paper more than spoken words. She never decided to become a writer. Her brain simply classified it as a necessity to life.
Nadine is a stay-at-home author and writes stories about authentic faith, bold living, and worlds soaked in imagination. She lives in Idaho with her husband and works as a freelance editor. When she's not writing, editing, or taste-testing a new chai, she is out pursuing adventures. A Time to Die is her first novel. Visit Nadine at www.nadinebrandes.com
My Review: 4.5 stars
Gah! I have so many mixed emotions regarding this book! It was so amazing, but it was also the final book in the series. I was so excited to read it, because I’d finally get to learn how it all ended, but then it ended. I didn’t want it to end! But, it did have a fantastic ending and I loved seeing everything come together. I definitely recommend reading the first two books before picking up this one, but totally grab this one! This book completely met and exceeded my expectations! I loved it!
Ms. Brandes’ books were the first dystopian I’d ever tried, but I was so intrigued by the concept behind the first book that I couldn’t resist and happily discovered that I really enjoy the genre. Or maybe just Nadine’s books. I haven’t really tested that theory overly much, yet. And her third book is certainly as wonderful as the other two, with the added advantage that I knew it would be the end of Parvin’s story - the cliffhangers from the previous books were torture! The story flows by quickly, filled with twists and turns, suspense and danger, and excellent writing. It kept me guessing and up all hours, dying to know what would happen next! I spent a couple sleep deprived days at work, wondering how I would possibly get through the day without knowing how Parvin and her friends were doing. There aren’t many books that stay in my imagination throughout the day, so that definitely sets this book apart, for me.
I’ve already said so much about Parvin and Solomon and Willow in my previous reviews (you can find them here and here) that I think I would just be repeating myself to comment much more. Though I will say that I enjoyed seeing how the characters have changed and grown throughout the entire series. Some of them not for the better, but that’s part of reality, too. And I loved how much of a integral part of the story faith in God is - some of my favorite lines are Parvin’s prayers as she learns ever more what it means to trust God with every situation and how to see others with His eyes. I love the relationship she has with Him and how we see that she isn’t perfect, but she’s trying. That may have been my favorite part of this story. I’m not sure. There are a lot of moments to choose from.
Photo credit: Rosealie Valentine
My only mildly negative comment is that I have mixed feelings about the epilogue. I wasn’t expecting one, so I had prepared myself for what I thought was the final page and the impact from the last sentence was so important to me. But then, it wasn’t over! And I wasn’t sure how to feel about that. I enjoyed the epilogue tying the final stray strings together and giving me closure, but at the same time, I kind of lost the impact of those “final” words. I’ll probably have to read it again with different expectations to be able to fully decide my opinion on the matter.
I highly recommend this book (and series) to anyone who is looking for a thought-provoking read full of suspense and characters that grab your heart. But be prepared to have your heart broken by fictional characters . . . . and read the other books first - no cheating!
Thank you to all who took the time to read my review! To those of you who simply scrolled here after reading the note at the top: that's okay, too. I do the same thing, so no worries. :)
Now, for the surprise. To celebrate this awesome book I'm giving away an eBook copy of the winner's choice of Nadine's books! This is mostly just a surprise for me, because I wasn't intending to do a giveaway right now, but I was writing this post and just decided it sounded fun! So, here we are!
There should be a Rafflecopter form at the bottom of the page for you to enter . . . . if it's not working correctly, please let me know! I've never used the site before, so we'll see how this goes. I'll contact the winner on Saturday, October 8th, so don't forget to check your email!
And, if you don't want to wait, there are purchase links below . . . .
Thanks again for stopping by! Have a delightful day! :)
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a Rafflecopter giveaway
"How did you know for sure? That you loved her?" . . . "I couldn't breathe without her." (page 240)
Description:
Dani had planned to spy on Brett--so how did she end up on a date with him?
Dani Prescott can't believe the lie Brett Somers is trying to sell to the media. During an interview about the plane crash that killed his parents, he blamed Dani's mother. But the crash killed her as well. Vowing to restore her mother's reputation, Dani has been following Brett and taking photos, hoping to find something she can use to discredit him. But when she catches his eye instead, she quickly finds herself agreeing to a date. Brett knows this mystery girl is hiding something--but he's got his own secrets to keep. What will happen when he discovers who she really is?
About the Author:
Johnnie Alexander is the award-winning author of Where Treasure Hides and Where She Belongs. Johnnie is an accomplished essayist and poet whose work has appeared in the Guideposts anthology A Cup of Christmas Cheer. In addition to writing, she enjoys reading, spending time with her grandchildren, and taking road trips. She lives near Memphis, Tennessee.
My Review: 3.5 stars
When Love Arrives is the first book I’ve read by Johnnie Alexander and it’s quite obvious that the story continues from her previous book, Where She Belongs. Though this book stands alone quite well, I could tell that I’d missed a fair amount, despite her efforts to fill in the gaps. I first became interested in this book after reading the synopsis - I was intrigued by the idea of an “accidental” date and curious to learn how everything would work out. What I found surprised me a little bit with how anticlimactic it was, but I found that it truly echoed real life, so I can’t really complain. I can happily say that I enjoyed this book quite a bit and am looking forward to reading the next one!
While I was reading this book someone asked me if Ms. Alexander’s writing style reminded me of any of my favorite authors and I really struggled to come up with a name. In my mind, this was Johnnie’s book, so of course, it sounds like her writing style. That being said, it’s well written and the story flows smoothly, never lagging and rarely rushing ahead. I do have to nitpick and say that I personally would’ve enjoyed a few more descriptions, as I found myself struggling to imagine certain settings. I’m also going to admit that I found Dani’s plan to humiliate Brett childish at first and her reasoning not that well thought out. Though I did appreciate that Dani admitted that herself and slowly began to grow throughout the book.
Brett is definitely the character I saw the biggest change in and I enjoyed following his transformation. He starts out as something of a jerk, though he’s already started seeing the errors of his ways when the book opens, and he wants to change, but doesn’t know how. This book ended up feeling like more his story than Dani’s and her character sometimes took a backseat to his issues, which played out well in the end, but I still found it a little frustrating that I didn’t get to see more of Dani’s side of the story. Her character seemed almost shallow at times, compared to Brett and everything he was dealing with. Their relationship was a bit different, as well. Because of Brett trying to change his ways, he struggles to keep his friendship with Dani where it should be. I appreciated how Ms. Alexander showed his battle and how their relationship plays out. I also had to smile at his teasing and joking with Dani and some of her responses had me laughing.
I started this book with no idea what to expect and ended it with a smile on my face. Despite my nitpicking and hopes for a slightly deeper story, I did very much enjoy my trip to Columbus and Misty Willow and hope to be visiting again, soon.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Thank you so much for stopping by, once again! Isn't that quote at the top just the sweetest? I found it and just couldn't resist. :)
If you'd like to learn more about the book or look into it further, links are below, as always.
Have a delightful day!
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This book was so good! I just wanted to go ahead and share that, before you get to my totally gushing review in a moment. :)
Description:
Katie Singleton, a partner with the Elite Guardians Protection Agency, stumbles upon her next assignment quite by accident. Spotting blue lights at a familiar restaurant, she stops to investigate, only to discover that owner Daniel Matthews has become the target of someone who will go to any lengths to put him out of business.
Daniel might be concerned, but he's not convinced that a bodyguard--and a female one at that--is necessary. A new attack and his niece's urgings are enough to make him reconsider. He and Katie must figure out who's behind the intimidation and threats--before a would-be killer strikes again.
About the Author:
Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of the Women of Justice series, the Deadly Reunions series, and the Hidden Identity series, as well as "Always Watching "in the Elite Guardians series. She is the winner of an ACFW Carol Award, the Selah Award, and the Inspirational Readers' Choice Award. She has a master's degree in education from Converse College and she lives in South Carolina. Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.
My Review: 5 stars!
Without Warning is the second book in Lynette Eason’s Elite Guardians series, and is a book I’ve been highly anticipating for months! I really enjoyed the first book, Always Watching, but I have to say that Lynette has raised the bar even higher with this book and it will definitely be going on my list of favorite suspense novels for this year!
Lynette has definitely made a name for herself in the suspense genre and I always love her books. They keep me up way too late more often than not, and I can’t resist grabbing every spare moment to read, despite knowing I’ll have to put them down eventually and actually be productive. This book kept me guessing from page one and sifting through suspects, trying to guessing “whodunit.” I loved the rapid-fire pace of the story, but also appreciated the slower moments that balanced it out and allowed the relationship to build naturally. I do have to confess her books feel just a bit improbable at times, with how everything works out, but I think that’s part of why I love them: everything eventually works out for the best . . . Well, maybe not for the villain, but I’m not generally not terribly upset about that.
Katie Singleton is the heroine of this story and I loved her immediately! I vaguely remember meeting her in the previous book and really liking her, but my faulty memory definitely didn’t do her justice. She is strong and bold, but also struggles with her past and the mistakes that led her to this point. She also fits perfectly with the hero, Daniel Matthews, who has also become a favorite character. He is definitely not the average protection agency client, with his military and investigation background, something that I really enjoyed. The premise of the whole series, of a team of female bodyguards can sound a bit farfetched, especially because it’s flip-flopped from the norm, but Lynette does it so well! Her heroes are still just that: heroes. They may allow the ladies to take the lead, but they never come across as weak or lacking. They are still incredibly strong characters, which is especially true of Daniel. He has a very bold personality, which came right off the pages. He struggles with an anger problem, but it’s something he’s learned to control. He also battles PTSD and we get a few glimpses of that, which makes him come to life even more. I loved getting to know him and seeing someone take care of Katie for a change. He is especially sweet with his niece, Riley, another character that I really loved meeting. I’m kind of hoping she has a book of her own in the future - I personally would adore that (hint, hint).
I also really appreciate how the author weaves faith and trust in God throughout the story, without it coming across as preachy or overtaking the main storyline. It’s subtly woven throughout as an overarching theme and I enjoyed the bits of wisdom shared throughout the story, a few of which I’ve saved for future reference.
The ending was also superbly done and I really regret reading the excerpt of the next book that was at the end because I really want to read that one now, but I’m forced to wait! I knew there was a reason some readers wait for the entire series to release . . . I just don’t have that kind of self control. In case it wasn’t obvious from all of my fangirling and overuse of certain words, I HIGHLY recommend this book!
Many thanks to Revell for my copy of this book! I have given my honest review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Thank you so much for popping over to read my review! I hope I didn't scare you off and that you'll consider visiting again. :) Before I sign off, I do have to share the cover for the next book (Maddy and Quinn's!!!) that I am SO excited for! Definitely shouldn't have read the excerpt, but happily, I don't have to wait too terribly long, since it's currently scheduled to release January 2017! Yay!
So, here's the cover, then scroll a dab further and you'll find a link to learn more about it, just in case you care to join me in my torturous waiting. :)
Click "here" to learn more!
And that's all for today! I hope your day is overflowing with little moments of joy!
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Isn't this cover stunning? I just love it!
Description:
Lady Georgina Hawthorne has worked tirelessly to seal her place as the Incomparable for her debut season. At her first London ball, she hopes to snag the attention of an earl.
With money and business connections, but without impeccable bloodlines, Colin McCrae is invited everywhere but accepted nowhere. When he first encounters the fashionable Lady Georgina, he's irritated by his attraction to a woman who concerns herself only with status and appearance.
What Colin doesn't know is that Georgina's desperate social aspirations are driven by the shameful secret she harbors. Association with Colin McCrae is not part of Georgina's plan, but as their paths continue to cross, they both must decide if the realization of their dreams is worth the sacrifices they must make
About the Author:
Kristi Ann Hunter graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in computer science but always knew she wanted to write. Her debut novel, A Noble Masquerade, is a RITA double finalist. She lives with her husband and three children in Georgia. Find her online at www.kristiannhunter.com.
My Review: 4.5 stars
An Elegant Façade is the second book in Kristi Ann Hunter’s Hawthorne House series, and I have to say that she is quickly becoming one of my favorite historical authors! I adored the first book, A Noble Masquerade, and was so excited to find out that this was going to be Georgina and Colin’s book! It was every bit as good as I expected and actually surpassed quite a few of my expectations, which is sometimes difficult when I so enjoy the first book. Ms. Hunter has definitely raised the bar with this novel and left me wondering how she could possibly top it for the next story!
The story did start out a bit slow for me, since the first couple chapters were something of recaps of what went on in the first book, but when it picked up I didn’t want to put it down! I also found that I really enjoyed seeing a bit of the goings on from the first book through the eyes of different characters. Ms. Hunter’s books are so unique and I love how she has her own distinctive style, but also tries to add in a bit of the conventional. Her details and descriptions are excellent, bringing life to the Regency era and everything that comes with being a person of notice about London during the Season. Though her books contain all of the usual elements, I have to say that I probably most love the dialogue found between the pages. That, and the moments of suspense found within this book and the previous one.
Georgina Hawthorne is a very unique character and one that I wasn’t entirely sure I would care for, especially since our first meeting was less than stellar. When I met her in A Noble Masquerade, she was the annoying, spoiled, selfish little sister to Miranda and I truly didn’t care much for her. Surprisingly enough, I actually fell in love with her rather quickly, particularly after learning of her challenges and why she behaves as she does. She can actually be quite kind, funny, and stubborn, when she lets go of the façade that hides so many emotions. I loved the moments when Colin got behind her mask and I got to see the real Georgina. She still seems selfish and a bit childish at times, but it was made up for by the fact that she was slowly growing throughout the story. I did really appreciated the fact that her transformation is ongoing, rather than something that happens overnight. It was helped by the moments when I saw her upset over the way she behaved. She might have become one of my favorite heroines, despite not liking her at first glance.
And Colin McCrae is by far a very compelling hero, but then, I’m a sucker for men with accents. Colin is a good friend of the Duke of Marshington, the main character in the previous novel and I fell in love with him from the first meeting, when he was so enjoying his friend’s discomfort, but trying to not laugh too loudly. That just sealed the deal for me, and he’s as equally mischievous in this book! It’s not often I laugh through a Regency novel, but with Colin in the mix, I found myself doing just that more than once! Along with being mischievous, Colin is also kind, and funny, and strong, and sometimes, even a little unsure. I think it was the final trait that had me falling for him so quickly. I loved getting to see past the armor he wears for the world, behind the guy who finds humor in everything, to the man who isn’t altogether sure of what he wants, just something beyond the shallow existence he has now.
I also enormously enjoyed how the author wove faith throughout the story. It isn’t a big focal point of the story, this book doesn’t preach, but what it does say matters quite a lot. Colin’s faith has been what has guided him through life, and now he’s searching for where he’s to go next. Georgina has never truly believed in God, due to the imperfection she finds so glaring. She believes God has cursed her for some offense she doesn’t understand. I loved seeing both of them grow, though especially Georgina. As with the rest of her behavior, she doesn’t come to believe at once, something else I really appreciated. It’s another slow transition, that had her asking questions and seeking answers. I loved seeing that and the encouragement I found in their story.
I believe I shall be purchasing a paper copy of this book for my shelf, as soon as it releases, and then eagerly anticipating the next book, which I’ve heard “might” be Trent’s book!
I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my review! I hope you enjoyed it and I apologize for being so scarce around here! Though, I am part of several blog tours for October, so be prepared to be bombarded with posts very shortly!
Also, if you'd like to learn more about the book that will be following this one, you can find details by following this link. I can tell you that it's titled An Uncommon Courtship, the release date is set for January 2017 and it sounds delightful! Oh, I can't wait!!
As always, purchase links are below! Thanks again!
I hope your day is filled with laughter!
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I love how the outfit the model wears on the cover plays into the story at one point! I've noticed it with all of Karen's books and I really appreciate the extra touch the publisher puts on each of her covers. :)
Description:
Men are optional. That's the credo Emma Chandler's suffragette aunts preached and why she started a successful women's colony in Harper's Station, Texas. But when an unknown assailant tries repeatedly to drive them out, Emma admits they might need a man after all. A man who can fight--and she knows just the one.
Malachi Shaw finally earned the respect he craved by becoming an explosives expert for the railroad. Yet when Emma's plea arrives, he bolts to Harper's Station to repay the girl who once saved his life. Only she's not a girl any longer. She's a woman with a mind of her own and a smile that makes a man imagine a future he doesn't deserve.
As the danger intensifies, old feelings grow and deepen, but Emma and Mal will need more than love to survive.
(Can you hear the "dun-dun-duh!" in that last line?)
About the Author:
Winner of the HOLT Medallion and the Carol Award and a finalist for the RITA and Christy Award, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer writes historical romance to give the world more happily-ever-afters. Karen makes her home in Texas, with her husband and three children. Learn more about Karen and her books at www.karenwitemeyer.com.
My Review: 5 stars!
I’ve been so excited to read this book by Karen Witemeyer, mainly because she’s one of my very favorite historical fiction authors, but also because I’d heard so many wonderful things about it! I have to say that it definitely lived up to the sterling reviews shared with me and exceeded every expectation I may have had. The characters are fantastic (I’ll gush over Malachi shortly) and I always love how unique Ms. Witemeyer’s books are - plus, this one features a mystery, which just added another level of enjoyment to it for me. I’m also super excited, because it sounds like this book might be the first in a series (I’m hoping)!
I’m a big fan of historical fiction and Karen’s books are always by far some of my favorites. I’m always so excited to read one of her books, even without knowing a single thing about the storyline. I love her way with words and her attention to the smallest detail. I had no idea what was involved to be in demolition in the 1800s, or how a women’s colony could possibly work, but she brings both of these unique things to life between the covers of this book. I fall in love with her characters and I so enjoy how they break away from the norm of what I might expect in a western novel. Even when her books do edge a little more toward the traditional, there’s still a distinctive “something” that sets her books apart from the rest. Oh, and I have to brag on the mystery at least a little bit! I very much enjoyed having a mystery in the forefront of this story - it kept me on my toes, what with guessing who the culprit might be and wondering what might happen next. It played perfectly into the storyline and she set it wonderfully, leaving little clues and keeping the pacing just right to keep the story moving, without rushing or dragging it out.
Now, for my favorite part: the characters! I adore the opportunity to gush about the heroes (and there will be gushing!) and brag on the great heroines that round them out. In this case, Emma Chandler is the heroine and I did adore her! She was raised primarily by spinster aunts who taught her that women can do or be anything, and they don’t necessarily need a man to be happy. Which was scandalous at the time, and Emma soon found that not many shared their opinions. I loved her stubbornness and her determination to protect her ladies, even when that meant making hard decisions. Despite being self-assured, she struggles with knowing what the right choice is and doubts whether she’s the best person to be in charge. The doubts and fears are what make her so realistic that she climbed right off the page and into my heart. I loved the realism and seeing the softer side of her character: the one what wants to make the best choice possible, but doesn’t always hear God’s voice on what that is, or the one that treads ahead, rather than waiting for an answer.
Malachi Shaw is the hero in this tale, and what a great hero he makes! From meeting him the first time as a thirteen-year-old boy staring down a bossy angel, to getting to know him a decade later as a man responsible for blowing things up and in desperate need of a shave, he definitely makes the list of my favorite heroes! Malachi has spent his life just surviving, and trying to earn the respect of those around him. He lives with his heart stowed safely behind his walls and if his life seems a little empty, at least he’s not getting hurt. I loved watching Emma slowly pull him from his shell and the interactions between them alternated between making me laugh and sigh. Malachi is just as stubborn and strong willed as Emma, as well as being protective and rather cynical. He also has a streak of kindness toward the Aunts, Emma, and her ladies. I so enjoyed seeing this big man showing kindness to ladies who had had so little of it in their lives.
As aforementioned, I loved the relationship between Emma and Malachi! It started off a little slowly at first, but then slowly built throughout. I enjoyed the fact that they knew one another before, which added another layer to their getting to know each other as adults. Their history also kept the romance from being too fast or unbelievable, what with the somewhat short timeline of this story. There’s also a side romance going on, which I’m really hoping will be part of another book, because I really want to know what happens between the characters!
Overall, I give this book probably closer to 10 stars, rather than just 5, but websites are contrary things and don’t allow for the extra ratings for super amazing books.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance with a side of mystery!
Many thanks to Bethany House Publishing for allowing me the pleasure of reviewing this book! I'm required to state that this is my honest review and I have not been compensated for it in any way. Okay, legalities aside, thank you dear blog reader friend for taking the time to read my review! I hope you enjoyed it and will consider stopping in to say "hi!" again!
Have a smile-filled day!
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*Squeal* I am so excited for this! Okay, so this is my first time participating in a cover reveal, so you'll have to forgive any gaffs I make and be prepared for excessive exclamation points in the following post. I'm so excited!
Nadine Brandes' first two books were epic, and I can't wait to read this next one, but the cover - oh, the cover! It's so . . . compelling? Awesome? Fascinating? Any and all of those words will work. And for those who have read the other books, it's an adventure just studying it, because at least my brain is twirling around, trying to guess what might be waiting for me between the pages of this soon-to-be-in-my-hands book! Gah! I'm so stoked (and very impatient!)!
In order to string out the suspense a tad longer, here are the covers of the first two books, so you can get an idea of what's to come.
You can find my review for A Time to Die here, along with a synopsis of the book and purchase links. Seeing this book is what caused my interest in the dystopian genre. I was fascinated by the idea behind the story and thought about it for weeks before I was finally brave enough to try it! Happily, I wasn't disappointed!
And the second book:
Again, link to review, as well as details and purchase links can be found here (this one was my favorite, so far . . . am I allowed to say that?) The end of this book was just . . . ah! What's going to happen next?! But, on the bright side I also have a lot of incentive to grab A Time to Rise as soon as it hits shelves and devour it! I have to know how it ends!
And finally . . . .drum roll . . . . .
TA-DA! *sigh* Isn't it awesome?! (if you don't like it, please don't bust my bubble, okay?)
Oh, and I get to share the synopsis, too!
What more can you sacrifice than your life?
Parvin Blackwater is dead.
At least…that’s what the Council—and the world—thinks. But her sacrifice tore down part of the Wall long enough to stir up hope and rebellion in the people. Now she will rise again. Strong, free, and fearless.
Parvin and Solomon must uncover the mysterious clues that Jude left behind in order to destroy the projected Wall once and for all. Meanwhile, the Council schemes to new levels of technology in its attempts to keep the people contained. Can a one-handed Radical and a scarred ex-Enforcer really bring shalom to the world?
How fantastic does it sound?! I can't wait! Unfortunately, I do have to wait, though only until October 14th. We'll (I'll) make it until then, right?
If you need help keeping track, someone much better with computers than I, created this countdown clock for A Time to Rise!
If you have Goodreads, you can now add A Time to Rise to your To-Be-Read list and get notifications of giveaways and the like: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27230665-a-time-to-rise
And, in celebration of this fantabulous cover, Nadine has a super cool giveaway going on that might show up below. Maybe. If I can figure this out - if not, you can also follow this link and it should work fine.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Oh, and you can find Nadine's main blog post here, which should be super awesome and probably include a bit more info than what I have.
In addition, if you want to follow her on social media, there are links below, so that you can keep up with the goings on and get updates when anything new or cool happens!
Okay! I think that's all! I'm going to go fangirl in a corner now, and leave you to getting on with your life, or maybe just staring at the awesomeness of this cover - either way, have a delightful day!
You can find Nadine Brandes on:
Her Website: http://nadinebrandes.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/NadineBrandesAuthor
Instagram: http://instagram.com/NadineBrandes
Twitter: http://twitter.com/NadineBrandes
Post script:
It worked! Adding the giveaway worked! And it didn't break anything! I'm sure no one else cares, but this is so exciting for me! Okay, I'm good - you may resume your life now. ;)
"She'd learned long ago that courage was not the absence of fear, but the willingness to confront it." Stella West
Description:
Stella West's artistic talent made her the toast of London, but when her beloved sister dies under mysterious circumstances she abandons everything and heads for Boston. With single-minded determination she fights to pierce the ring of secrecy surrounding her sister's death. Upon meeting Romulus White, a publisher with connections into every important power circle in the city, she quickly realizes he could be a valuable ally in navigating Boston society.
Romulus has been pursuing Stella for years to create art for his magazine. Her luminous illustrations are the missing piece he needs to propel his magazine to the forefront of the industry, and he will stop at nothing to get her on board.
Sparks fly the instant they join forces, but Romulus is unsettled by the unwelcome attraction he feels toward Stella, fearing she might be the one woman who could disrupt his hard-won independence. He may have finally met his match in Stella, but is helping her solve the mystery of her sister's death worth the risk to his publishing empire?
About the Author:
Elizabeth Camden is the author of eight historical novels and has been honored with both the RITA Award and the Christy Award. With a master's in history and a master's in library science, she is a research librarian by day and scribbles away on her next novel by night. She lives with her husband in Florida. Learn more at www.elizabethcamden.com.
My Review: 4 stars
Elizabeth Camden is one of my favorite historical authors and she rarely disappoints me. Her books are always so creative and dare to focus on topics that few others do: Watch-making, opium smuggling, tuberculosis, to name a few. This one falls right in with the others, with the focus being on lithography and magazine production, with a great mystery thrown into the mix. I loved the adventure and getting a glimpse into a setting that is unique and colorful!
Ms. Camden is an excellent writer and she always does a great job with the historical details and bring life to things that are so foreign to the modern world. Her words paint in broad strokes what Boston was like in 1897, with the construction of the first subway system and the incorporation of electricity into everyday life. I also really loved the mystery and seeing what investigation may have been like before the turn of the century. She definitely kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat, wondering what might happen next!
The characters were also excellent! Ms. Camden has built a reputation for creating characters that are not at all the norm, and these two definitely follow suit! Stella is an outspoken, creative, eccentric odd duck. She can be brash, but she can also be a lady when it suits her will. She is often abrupt, determined, and so many label her difficult. I frankly didn’t love her at once, but she slowly grew on me, as I saw more of who she is and not just how she behaves under exacting circumstances. Romulus is almost the exact opposite. He has many friends and is known to be easygoing with an attitude of good cheer more often than not. He can be determined, but he is so easily distracted by new things that catch his fancy, it doesn’t often last long. I loved his character because of the openness found in him. He is rather insecure, particularly when it comes to love, because of his flighty demeanor. He has a great many interests and loves getting lost in learning all he can about them. I immensely enjoyed getting to know his character! Oh, and I can’t forget to mention their dialogue! I loved the sparring between Stella and Romulus, as they butted heads, but also just generally picked on one another. I found myself laughing at the most random times, because it may have been started out as a serious scene, but something they would say would make me smile instead of becoming serious with the turn in conversation.
Honestly, there were a couple small things that bothered me a bit. First, as I’ve already mentioned, I didn’t particularly like Stella for a while. She’s an interesting character, but she’s so selfish and self-centered for much of the story. That made it rather difficult for me to get into the book right off. Though, to be fair, her behavior allowed for an excellent opportunity to add faith to the story. And she did grow on me after a bit, so I can’t be entirely put out with her. I also found it rather strange that the story comes from the villain’s view point just once, rather randomly near the end, then we never hear from them again. That was just a little odd. Despite those points, I did quite enjoy this book and am anxious to see what this author writes next!
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction that breaks away from the norm!
I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
You can also find my review here on Fiction411.com!
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my review! I hope you enjoyed it! I'll hopefully be getting back into a regular schedule of posting - though honestly, I don't know that I've ever really been that dependable. I shall endeavor to see what I can do.
Have a delightful day!
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