Litfuse Blog Tour Event: Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden

Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden is a book that should be on your '2015 To Be Read' list. It's full of humor, intelligent wit, politics, romance, and a story that will keep you turning from page to page. This is a read that will surprise you from beginning to end. Don't miss out on this, because Camden wrote something that pulls out all the stops for her readers.

Summary 

Sweeping and Romantic Historical Drama from an Award-Winning Author
 
Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across a baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. She is thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, but her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help. 

Luke Callahan was one of the nation's most powerful congressmen until his promising career became shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship. 

Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglement with a member of Congress. From the gilded halls of the Capitol, where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for themselves?

My Thoughts 


I have read a few of Camden's novels, but this is by far my favorite one. From beginning to end I was astonished by how much I was engrossed in this novel.  Camden has created character's that are as loving as they are flawed.  The back stories of these characters are extremely unique.  Anna and Luke are both character's that have high walls they need to break down and people they need to forgive from their past. I did not expect to enjoy this novel as I did when I picked it up.  I was worried it might be a tad bit too overwhelming with all of the detail, but everything was only intensified in the best way possible. 

Camden wrote a beautiful novel that I became obsessed with.  It was like reading an episode of a crime show.  Anna is trying to find out the truth to her father's disappearance and it's through the help of a man who is her total opposite who could help find the answers she needs.  From page to page I was gripping the novel.  I literally had no idea of what was going to happen at the end of this novel.  There was even a point in the novel where I had chills because of the tension. These are the type of novels that bring enjoyment and exhilaration to one when reading.

Anna and Luke are amazing. They're probably my favorite duo of the year so far.  They balanced each other out so well.  Luke was high maintenance and Anna was always ready to serve him a comment that could kick him off his high pedestal. There was humor in their relationship and an acknowledgement of their talents. They really were the best match, and I was impressed by how much I enjoyed them working together.  I loved reading their moments, it is sure to bring a giggle out every now and then.

This novel is in no way boring but exciting! It's a 2015 must read, so don't miss out! 

Check out a preview! 

Rating: 5 out of 5 bookshelves  
Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.   

About the Author 

She is a college librarian in central Florida by day, but by night she can be found pounding out inspirational historical novels the moment the sun goes down. She loves writing books about fiercely intelligent people who are confronted with profound challenges. As a rather introverted person, she has found that writing is the best way for her to share her faith and a sense of resilience with others.


Link to Author's: Facebook, Website, and Goodreads
Link to purchase her book: Amazon and B&N 
 
In His Grace, 
Taylor Reid   


Travel back in time to the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress in Elizabeth Camden's newest release, Beyond All Dreams. From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

Elizabeth is celebrating the release of Beyond All Dreams with a Kindle giveaway and Facebook party on February 17.

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• One copy of Beyond All Dreams

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 2/17. Winner will be announced at Elizabeth's 2/17 Beyond All Dreams Facebook author chat party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Elizabeth and historical fiction fans, as well as for the opportunity to win some great prizes!
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 17th!

Book Review #22: Like a Flower in Bloom by Siri Mitchell

Like a Flower in Bloom by Siri Mitchell is a story rooted in faith, family, romance and botany. It's a light read that will give an enjoyable experience to the reader. The heroine is as witty as witty gets. A good read for the new year. 

Summary 

Victorian-Era England Comes Alive in This Witty Romance

For years Charlotte Withersby has worked as an assistant to her father, an eminent English botanist. As she approaches the old age of twenty-four, her father pushes her out into society, swayed by an uncle who believes God's only two roles for women are marriage and motherhood. When one of the Withersbys' colonial correspondents, Edward Trimble, returns to England, he's drafted as the new assistant so Charlotte is free to marry. This suits Edward's plans quite well, since the last thing he wants to do is reunite with the family he is ashamed to call his own.

Though Edward proves himself vexingly capable on the job, Charlotte won't surrender the job without a fight, and schemes with her best friend to regain her position. Perhaps if a proposal seems imminent, Charlotte's father will see his error and ask her to return. Charlotte tries to make headway in her town's social life, but reveals herself to be unaware of all the intricacies of polite society. Though Edward pitches in, tutoring her in society's expectations, she just seems to make things worse. And the more she comes to know of her father's assistant, the more trouble she has imagining life without him. Caught in a trap of her own making and seeing the hopelessness of her prospects, will Charlotte get to keep her work or will she have to cede her heart? 

My Thoughts  

This was a good book.  It had a premise that included  botany, and this is the first book I have read that has to deal with this type of study.  I was intrigued by how in depth the author was going to go into when it came to this and how it would connect the character's in her book. 

This is a classic story of a heroine who is witty, likeable, and forced to do something she has no interest in at the moment: marriage.  Charlotte was a character that wasn't hard to like. She was strong, independent, but I felt solely found her identity in her father's work.  I was rooting for her throughout the story to speak up for herself and do what she wanted and find her identity in the work that she did.  On her journey to being presented to society it's clear Charlotte knows nothing about how to do that.  She is not well informed about dress protocol or when it's appropriate to speak one's mind.  These were the moments where the relationship between her and Edward are very entertaining to read.  The very man that she hates for taking her job is helping her being presented to society in order to find a husband.   I was laughing and smiling through this book it was a good entertaining read. The wittiness is perfect for this era and for the story.   Edward is a guy that I find always interesting to read.  A young man who is hiding something and  is always bewildered by Charlotte's ideas. 

Concerning the component of botany in the story it was very detailed. I didn't feel it was lacking in anything or not well researched. Mitchell is clearly a talented writer who doesn't skim or hold back from her readers.  It's in depth gives even the reader a chance to learn something new.

This is a good read for the new year.  The cover is gorgeous and the story will bring a smile to your face.  If you like to laugh out loud maybe keep this as a home read and not a public one. 

Rating: 3 out of 5 bookshelves 
I received a free copy from Bethany House Publishers in return for an honest review.

About the Author  

Siri Mitchell graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo. Siri enjoys observing and learning from different cultures. She is fluent in French and loves sushi.                                                                                           

Link to Author's: Facebook, Website, Twitter and Goodreads
Link to purchase her book: Amazon, B&N 

Thanks for stopping by reiders, happy reading! 

In His Grace, 
Taylor Reid  

Make Up by Michelle Phan

Make Up: Your Life Guide to Beauty, Style, and Success--ONLINE AND OFF is brought to the readers by the Youtube Beauty guru and author of the book herself, Michelle Phan.  In this updated "how to" book with tips on guidance on skin care, fashion tips and even modern manners for today's modern girl Phan has created something brilliant. 

What It's About 

Michelle Phan has believed in makeup since the first time she was allowed to try eyeliner. When she looked in the mirror and saw a transformed version of herself looking back, she fell in love with the sense of confidence that makeup could give her. Ever since she posted her first makeup tutorial on YouTube, she has dedicated herself to inspire millions by using makeup as a tool for transformation and self expression.

Now, Michelle has compiled all of her best wisdom into Make Up: Your Life Guide to Beauty, Style, and Success--Online and Off. From creating a gorgeous smoky eye to understanding contouring to developing an online persona, Michelle has advice to help you transform every facet of your life. Make Up is packed with Michelle’s trademark beauty and style tutorials, stories and pictures from her own life, and advice on the topics she is asked about most, including etiquette, career, entrepreneurship, and creativity. From the everyday (such as how to get glowing skin) to the big picture (such as how to turn your passion into a profession), Make Up is a practical and empowering resource to help anyone put their best face forward.

My Thoughts  

I love Youtube just as much as the next person and I also love makeup.  Put them together and we're in business. I just recently subscribed to Phan's Youtube page and can say I watch with envious eyes as she applies makeup effortlessly.  Once I started to read this book I was pleasantly surprised by the little intro she gives to her readers.  It's a "how I got to where I am" and I was surprised by how open she was.  I felt it bridged any gap I had or any misconceptions.  Starting the book off like that was a well thought out plan that pays off big time.  

The presentation of the book is great.  For one: it's a hardcover book with over 200 pages.  The cover is beautiful, simple and elegant and really draws your attention.  The book is put together beautifully with helpful hints, little info bubbles about things her readers might not know about or of and as the reader it was enjoyable going from page to page. It feels like Michelle is talking to you through the book. If you watch her videos I think you'll agree. The pages are super glossy and this book screams "elegant". Michelle in no way in this book comes off as the all knower or as a snob.  It's not like "this is what you're doing wrong" if anything this book is a helpful GPS to the modern girl when it comes to everyday life.  

Phan has outdone herself with this book.  There are pages on how to do resumes, making healthy life decisions and even "wardrobe math", yes you read that right.  I loved the added element of personal photos, personal stories, and how she thought of every body type and face shape for her readers when she had tips on glasses to outfits. It shows that she cares a lot for her readers and subscribers on Youtube: the platform that skyrocketed her fame.  I don't think someone has to be a fan of Phan to really get a lot of use or enjoyment out of this book.  It wouldn't hurt, but I think Phan has made something really brilliant, and that's sharing with others what she has learned through the years of bumping and tripping to finding her groove (the smooth path) through style, fashion and life. 

This is a book I feel I can take with me into my transition from teen girl to growing adult girl who is trying to figure out still what her personal style is.  This is something that I will be excited to share with my younger sister. This book can be the perfect gift for that girl graduating from high school or college to someone getting interested in style and makeup.  Can't go wrong with this. ;)

Well done, Michelle! Thanks for being my first non-fiction book I've ever reviewed, it was a great experience!

Rating: 4 out of 5 bookshelves 
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Here are some videos from Michelle Phan's Youtube account. 

One about her life  called "Draw My Life."

Another video with helpful hints on how to de-stress. 

About the Author 
   
Michelle Phan is a Youtube beauty guru and an entrepreneur. She has worked with companies such as
Lancôme and L'Oreal and has been featured in numerous magazines. Michelle Phan has come up with her own makeup brand emCosmetics and has almost 7 million subscribers on Youtube as of September 2014.

Link to her: Website, Youtube, Facebook,  Twitter 

Purchase her book at: Amazon, B&N 

Thanks for stopping by, happy reading! 

In His Grace, 
Taylor Reid  

Book Review #21: A Most Inconvenient Marriage by Regina Jennings

In a long awaited review, fellow reiders, I present to you A Most Inconvenient Marriage by Regina Jennings. 

If you are in a reading slump make sure to pick up Regina Jennings' newest novel.  It's guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and make for an enjoyable read.  Saddle up because this read is a wild ride full of mystery, romance, healing and forgiveness. 

Goodreads Summary 

A Marriage of Convenience Turns Most Inconvenient in this Historical Charmer

Having fled a difficult home life, Civil War nurse Abigail Stuart feels like her only friend in the world is sweet but gravely wounded patient Jeremiah Calhoun. Fearing he won't survive, the Confederate soldier's last wish is that Abigail look after his sickly sister at home. Marry him, return to his horse farm, and it'll be hers.

Left with few choices, Abigail takes him up on his offer and moves to Missouri after his death, but just as the family learns to accept her, the real Jeremiah Calhoun appears--puzzled to find a confounding woman posing as his wife. Jeremiah is determined to have his life back to how it was before the war, but his own wounds limit what he can do on his own. Still not fully convinced Abigail isn't duping him, he's left with no choice but to let the woman stay and help--not admitting to himself she may provide the healing his entire family needs. 

My Thoughts

I started this book last night at around midnight and finished when 4 o'clock started to appear on my phone.  Yes, my reading slump went from having not read in the last few months for enjoyment due to school, to binge reading Jennings' novel.  I'm not complaining though! 

Let's see... 
This is not my first novel by Jennings that I have read.  I really love her novels, she blends so well the themes of comedy, drama and romance and presents it in a package that is perfect for readers both old and new.  I love mistaken identity stories, it's just another added element to the story that I know will unfold and keep me guessing because I always try to figure it out before it's revealed. I'm happy to say I caught it (but of course I'm not going to tell you.) 

The symbolism with the horse shoe on the cover I thought was minimal. Like "Oh, a horseshoe because she is on a ranch." But once reading, it clicked for me. The horseshoe has so much more meaning that I started to beamed inside with joy knowing how well this cover was put together.  When a cover is more than being pretty, but has meaning and parallels well with the story it makes me much happier as the reader!  And no, I'm not going to reveal the meaning to you because it's that great, and I want you to have a similar experience and not rob you of it.

Abigail Stuart is a likeable character.  She is dependable, responsible and deals well with what is given to her.  I loved her sense of humor!  Nothing is worse than reading with a  protagonist that takes on sooooo much responsibility that she starts to become victimizing of herself.  I love characters that take a stand and keep walking forward and if they have humorous qualities as well, that is even better. 

Jeremiah Calhoun is the most stubborn, stuck in his ways, likeable character I have read this year.  Definite 180 for him from his entrance to his ending moments in the story: he goes from being stubborn to being more open to the new things happening in his new life, which includes Abigail.  When we meet Jeremiah he has a lot to deal with: regret, guilt and a pack of men loose in his land taking animals from his neighbors are just a few things to list.  So it is easy to say this guy has a lot on his plate.  But with Abigail riding alongside him they balance each other out, and both take on roles that help conquer the hurdles in front of them. 

The character's that accompany these two in the story from the rowdy neighbor kids, to Jeremiah's mother and ailing sister all have qualities that make this book that much better. This is not a book you should miss out on! So put it on your 'MUST BE READ' list, ok?

Truly an enjoyable read from beginning to end. I was smiling, I was crying, I was laughing, I was sighing.  This is why I read: for these exact moments!  Thank you, Regina! Thank you!

Highly recommended. 
Wanna read a preview? Click here
If you would like to see my review on Jennings' other books here is one and the other one.

Rating: 4.75 out of 5 bookshelves 
I received a free copy from Bethany House Publishers in return for an honest review.

About the Author 

Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She has worked at The Mustang News and First Baptist Church of Mustang, along with time at the Oklahoma National Stockyards and various livestock shows. She now lives outside Oklahoma City with her husband and four children. 

Links to Jennings: Facebook, Website, Twitter, and Goodreads 
  
Purchase a copy of her book from: Amazon and B&N

Thanks for stopping by, oh and MERRY CHRISTMAS! 

In His Grace, 
Taylor Reid 

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: The Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky

The Daughter of Highland Hall  is the second installment for the Edwardian Brides series by Carrie Turansky. Get ready to be transported back into the lives of the characters you fell in love with in the first book! There's more secrets, scandal, romance and intrigue awaiting you in the pages! A wonderful addition to your library this coming fall.

Here is the link to my review of the first book

Summary

Fans of Downton Abbey, Jane Eyre, and Pride & Prejudice will enjoy this pure and inspiring romance taking place in Edwardian England amid a clash of cultures and changing times.

Eighteen-year-old Katherine Ramsey travels to London with her family to make her debut into society and hopefully find her future husband. Her overbearing aunt insists she must secure a proposal from a wealthy young man who is in line to inherit his father’s title and estate. But Katherine questions her aunt’s plans when she gets to know Jonathan Foster, a handsome medical student and strong Christian who is determined to protect the poor and vulnerable in London’s East End. 

When a family scandal puts a damper on Katherine’s hopes for the season, she has time to volunteer with Jonathan, caring for children in one of London’s poorest areas, and romance blossoms. Katherine’s faith grows and she begins to envision a different future with Jonathan. But when Katherine’s work in the East End puts her in danger, Jonathan distances himself from Katherine to protect her. A wealthy suitor reappears, and Katherine must choose which path to follow.

My Thoughts 

Set in the early 20th century Turansky has again painted a wonderful story for her readers to enjoy. This novel focuses on Katherine Ramsey, William's cousin, and Jon Foster, Julia's brother. I like how Turansky uses characters from the first book to develop more into the second book and most likely we will see more of these characters in the further books coming soon. 

There is a lot to obsess about with this book. First, Jon is a keeper and Kate is a debutante that I actually like. Also, the drama that ensues that connects and brings these two together is Downtown Abbey worthy. Some authors aren't as talented as Turansky is at having more than one story line in a book. There are about four different stories lines that interconnect characters that can leave you fast reading through the book. I really liked the theme of family in this series. I can relate and understand each character who feels responsible and or trying to find a way to help their loved ones. 

Nothing is lost in this novel. You get it all! It feels as if you have a little piece of England on your bookshelf. The cover is gorgeous. Plus, the romance is clean enough to where you could give this to a younger lady that you might know enjoys Jane Austen or any type of English setting. A must read for your ending yearly reading! Keep it on your radar! 

Here is a preview for you to check it out!

Rating: 4 out of 5 bookshelves 
Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.  

About the Author  

 
Turansky have been writing since 1999 and have published several articles, short stories, devotions, and essays. Writing fiction is her passion, and she thanks the Lord for all the creative ideas and characters He puts in her mind and heart. She is very thankful for friends and family who have believed in her and encouraged her on my writing journey.

When she is not writing you will find her enjoying time with family, working outside in her flower gardens, cooking healthy meals for family and friends, or walking around the lake near her home.

Author's: Website, Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads 
Purchase her book: Amazon and B&N

In His Grace, 
Taylor Reid 

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: Keepers of the Convenant by Lynn Austin

If you're interested in my review for Book 1 of The Restoration Chronicles I recommend it! Click here. 

Keepers of the Covenant is another sensational novel brought to us by the talented author Lynn Austin. This story is both moving and inspiring. If you are interested in Biblical fiction that feels as if you're in Bible times, Austin is your new go-to author. From the authenticity in its writing to the beautiful cover this novel is the perfect read for you this fall! Don't miss out!

Summary 

The Old Testament Comes to Thrilling Life in the Latest from Lynn Austin

In one life-changing moment, the lives of the Jewish exiles in Babylon are thrown into confusion and despair when a decree arrives from the king's palace in Susa. It calls for the annihilation of every Jewish man, woman, and child throughout the empire on the thirteenth day of Adar, in less than one year. Ezra, a quiet Jewish scholar and teacher, is suddenly called upon to lead the community as they seek God for a reason for this catastrophe. When a second decree arrives, authorizing them to fight back, Ezra is thrust into the role of military leader as they defend themselves against their enemies.

When the battles come to an end, Ezra's brother Jude is dead and Ezra is required by the Law he so diligently studies to marry Jude's widow, Devorah, and provide an heir. Fatherhood changes Ezra, and he asks God to make a way for him and the other exiles to leave Babylon for good and return to Jerusalem. His prayers are answered and the exiles move to Judea to revitalize worship at the temple--but the fight to keep God's Law is never easy. As more and more of his community are tempted, a new battle emerges...this one for the survival of God's covenant and the souls of His chosen faithful.

My Thoughts 

If you have not read the first book in this series I don't know how much more to recommend that you read it! Now, the plot line in Keepers is entirely different from Return but this is a Series I feel readers will really be missing out on if they don't read each book, each page, each sentence, each word. 

Austin again delivers with another 470+ page book for her readers to lose themselves in. I said it in my first review and I'm going to write it again, "Of course it's all fiction. Yet, Austin has truly done a splendid job at digging deeper and making this story captivating for her readers." This book deals with the Jewish exiles in Babylon and the decree for the death of every Jew, young and old, women and children. In their darkest hours God's people are thrown into never ending circles of where to find their hope and who they can find it in. 

Another quality I love about Austin's writing is the development of relationships between characters. From Devorah and Ezra to Reuben and Amina to the many other characters that help carry this story I was enraveled in the lives of these four individuals and how they grew in their dependence and for some new found trust and hope in God. I love how these characters always found a way to encourage others and remind themselves as well to set their eyes on God and seek mercy and understanding from Him. I feel that these elements are as applicable to them in the book as it is for us while reading it. 

Another brilliant novel that will leave your heart bursting with joy. Thank you Austin for another gratifying read. 

Want to give the read a try? Here is a preview.  

Rating: 5 out of 5 bookshelves 
Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.  


About the Author 

It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority. 
Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. 

Link to Author's: Facebook, Website, and Goodreads  

Purchase her book on: Amazon and B&N  

  Lynn Austin is back with the next book in The Restoration Chronicles series, Keepers of the Covenant. Austin weaves together the struggles and stories of both Jews and Gentiles, creating a tapestry of faith and doubt, love and loss. Here, the Old Testament comes to life, demonstrating the everlasting hope displayed in God's unwavering love for His people.

Lynn is celebrating with a Kindle HDX giveaway and a live author chat webcast on October 21st.

One winner will receive:

• A Kindle HDX
• Keepers of the Covenant by Lynn Austin

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 21st. Winner will be announced at the Keepers of the Covenant LIVE webcast event on October 21st. Connect with Lynn for a fascinating evening centered around God's unwavering love for His people. She'll be hosting a Biblical fiction book club discussion, giving away prizes, answering your questions, offering an exclusive peek at the next book in The Restoration Chronicles, and much more!

So grab your copy of Keepers of the Covenant and join Lynn and friends on the evening of October 21st for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by signing up for a reminder. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 21st!

In His Grace, 

Taylor Reid 

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: A Lady at Willowgrove Hall (Whispers on the Moors #3) by Sarah E. Ladd

A Lady of Willowgrove Hall (Whispers on the Moors #3) by Sarah E. Ladd is a wonderful addition to the Whispers on the Moors Series. From the cover, to the language, to the plot, to the characters everything is beautiful. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and feel that you will too! Join me in my review on this book and find out why I think you will agree. 

If you have not read any of the other books in this series I did a review for the second book which you can read here.

Summary 

Willowgrove Hall is full of secrets, but soon everything hidden is brought to light.

Cecily Faire has a secret—and she intends to keep it. But when she arrives at Willowgrove Hall to serve as a lady’s companion, she comes face-to-face with the only person who knows the truth about her past.

As the steward of Willowgrove Hall, Nathaniel Stanton is dedicated to serving those around him. Nothing escapes his notice—including the beautiful new lady’s companion. He is certain the lovely Miss Faire is hiding something, and he determines to uncover it. But Nathaniel has a secret of his own: he is the illegitimate son of Willowgrove’s former master. Falling in love was not part of his plans . . . until he meets Cecily Faire.

When Willowgrove’s mistress dies, everything changes. Fear of exposure forces Cecily to leave under the cover of darkness, embarking on a journey to finally find her long-lost sister. When the will is read, Nathaniel’s inheritance makes him question his future plans. Cecily and Nathaniel are forced to make decisions that will change the course of their lives. Is their love strong enough to survive?   

My Thoughts

There is something magical about reading books set in England in the 19th century. It must be my inner child reminiscing the years of reading Jane Austen and Louise May Alcott (yes I know she's American, but still) during summer vacation.  I really liked Ladd's second book in this series so I was excited to read this one. She likes to write about secrets that are big, and they just happen to be fun to read. Win, win. 

I love how Ladd incorporated her previous books into this one. This writing choice is something I really like when a author writes a series with different characters but still has it all connected. We as the readers don't have to say goodbye to the characters we fell in love with, and instead we get a slight glimpse of them again, which is better than nothing.   

As for the characters in this book I liked them. Cecily was a bit sensitive at times, but she was a good listener and had improved from her father disowning her. Nathaniel was very attentive to Cecily  and cared for his family well, how could you not like a guy like that? I felt that both were given their roles due to the choices made by others and how both Cecily and Nathaniel responded to those choices. There were defiant affects to both their lives, so they could rather please others or follow what they knew was right for themselves. For Cecily that was finding her twin sister she was separated from, and for Nathaniel it was moving away to claim land that was his.  Throughout the rest of the story we see them both struggle and fight for the choice they want to make instead of let past choices chose their life.

The relationships in this book were endearing, respective, loving, and full of humor and laughter. I really like when characters are invested in more than one person's life. Cecily had a connection with most of the characters rather it be for good or for bad. I also loved the theme of forgiveness and moving forward that Ladd incorporated. This happened for Cecily and Nathaniel but also for Mrs. Trent (read and find out!). It was a great development in the characters and helped the story come full circle.  

This book is perfect to cuddle up in bed with a cup of hot coco or to read at school while passing time. The secrets are enough to speculate on that will keep you turning from page to page. 

Rating: 4 out of 5 bookshelves 
Disclaimer: I received a free copy for a honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group. 

About the Author 

Every word has a melody.
Every sentence has a rhythm.

This truth has intrigued me since my early years. Even before 
I fully understood the meaning behind many of the words, I devoured literature and consumed poetry.
Austen, Alcott, Wordsworth: I left no piece of literature untouched, left no author unexamined. I continue to see magic in how a word is transformed by the word next to it and how written thoughts can incite emotion and evoke change.
In addition to a lifetime of writing and exploring fiction, I have more than ten years of strategic marketing and brand management experience, including five years of marketing non-fiction books and three years of marketing the musical arts. I live in Indiana and am blessed to share my life with my amazing husband, sweet daughter, and very lovable Golden Retriever.


Link to Authors: Facebook, Website, Twitter and Goodreads 
Purchase her book: Amazon, B&N, ChristianBook

Award-winning author Sarah E. Ladd examines how to escape the clutches of a tainted past in the final installment of her Whispers on the Moor series. A Regency-era novel, A Lady at Willowgrove Hall cleverly shows that even though our pasts may be shameful or painful, God can take the darkest personal histories and turn them into the brightest futures.

Celebrate with Sarah by entering her Kindle HDX giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• A Lady at Willowgrove Hall by Sarah E. Ladd

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 2nd. Winner will be announced November 3rd here.

 In His Grace, 
Taylor Reid