LDS and Lovin' it: Shadow Mountain

ISBN: 978-1-62972-996-1

Historical romance

Book cover & summary provided by publisher through deseretbook.com.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Lydia Wooding is fascinated by the latest inventions the new century brings, including motorcars. She longs for the independence they represent and believes that women should have a say in the future of the industry—just as they should have a say in suffrage, adventure, and, of course, love.

Spencer Hayes is a man of practicality and innovation, but he lacs the financial backing to make his dream a reality. When he contacts his childhood friend, Andrew Wooding, about a promising business venture, he is invited to Briarwall Manor to discuss the terms. Once there, he is surprised to find that Andrew's once shy, younger sister, Lydia, has grown into a young woman of beauty, wit, and a bit of fire. Even better, the two share a passion for motorcars.

Andrew, however, is wary of cars, having lost his parents in a tragic auto accident when he and Lydia were young. And he's not sure a relationship between his sister and Spencer is the best idea—not when Sir Lawrence is available and could match both Lydia's social status and her fortune. Spencer is torn between his dream of owning his own business and risking his heart for a relationship with a free-spirited woman determined to live life to the fullest.

REVIEW

One of my favorite things about Hearts of Briarwall, other than the romance, is the friendship Lydia shares with the other ladies of the Wendy League. They are truly delightful as characters and I hope to read more about the other ladies in future books. As for this one, Lydia is the heroine and she makes a good one. Her feistiness and willingness to speak up for what she wants and believes makes her a great character to root for, especially during the historical period in which she is placed. The hero, Spencer, makes an interesting match for Lydia since he is from a poor area of London, and is seeking investors for his motorcar supply business. The motorcar angle made for an intriguing storyline, especially considering Lydia's family's history with automobiles. The fact that Lydia was the assertive one in the romance and Spencer the reluctant one, for good reason, made for the perfect touch considering the female characters efforts toward women's suffrage. Lydia's efforts to pursue her own interests and feelings contrasted nicely with her brother's efforts to 'keep the bird caged' so to speak. And poor Spencer finds himself caught between his friendship with her brother and his growing feelings for her, especially as he has his own secret. I thoroughly enjoyed this ode to female independence and finding a partner who loves you the way you are. Recommended.

Wednesday, August 24, 2022

INSPIRATIONAL NONFICTION: Until You Find Strength by Jason F. Wright

UNTIL YOU FIND STRENGTH

A Message of Comfort for When Your Grief Feels Too Heavy

by Jason F. Wright

Source: eARC from publisher/purchased copy

ISBN: 978-1-62972-995-4

Book cover and summary from publisher.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Everyone experiences loss differently and grieves in their own way, but author Jason F. Wright has learned from his own life some key principles to regaining your footing and finding tranquility after a devastating loss.

This beautifully illustrated book helps remind those who are grieving that they are never alone in their pain and heartache.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jason F. Wright is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of seventeen books. He lives with his wife, Kodi, and their children in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.

REVIEW

This tender gift book touched my heart as I read it. Maybe it's because not too long ago I lost a loved one myself. I cried as I read Jason Wright's sweet words of comfort and hope. I found it a great reminder that there is help and comfort available during these times of sorrow. It also reminded me that I can be that someone to offer love and support for others as they struggle with loss. I also appreciated the gentle reminder to ask for help when needed, there are those willing and able to help. The author also points out the grieving is different for everyone, that there will be ups and downs, and that we are likely to never stop missing those we love, but that good times can still be enjoyed and it's okay to laugh or cry as needed. This sweet book would make a great gift for yourself or others whose hearts are mourning the loss of a loved one.

TO PURCHASE

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

HISTORICAL FICTION : A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice by Rebecca Connolly

A BRILLIANT NIGHT OF STARS AND ICE

by Rebecca Connolly

Source: ARC from publisher for review/purchased final copy

ISBN: 978-1-62972-992-3

Book cover & summary provided by Deseretbook.com & publisher.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Shortly after midnight on April 15, 1912, the captain of the Carpathia, Arthur Rostron, is awakened by a distress signal from the RMS Titanic, which has struck an iceberg on its maiden voyage. Though information is scarce, Rostron leaps into action, determined to answer the call for help. But the Carpathia is more than four hours away, and there are more questions than answers: Will his ship hold together if pushed to never-before-tested speeds? What if he also strikes an iceberg? And with the freezing temperatures, will there be any survivors by the time the Carpathia arrives?

Kate Connolly is excited to join her sister in America and proud to be traveling on the grand Titanic. As a third-class passenger, she is among the last to receive instruction and help after Titanic hits an iceberg. Despite the chaos of abandoning ship, Kate is able to reach the upper decks and manages to board a lifeboat, though after seeing the Titanic sink into the abyss and hearing the cries from the hundreds of people still in the water, she wonders if any rescue is even possible.

Told in alternating chapters from both Captain Rostron on the Carpathia and Kate Connolly on the Titanic, this historical novel is a compelling, heart-pounding account of two eyewitnesses to an epic disaster. Rostron's heroic and compassionate leadership, his methodical preparations for rescue, and his grit and determination to act honorably and selflessly to save lives and care for the survivors, sets the course for this awe-inspiring story.

REVIEW

The story of the Titanic is a well-known one. Many books, both fiction and nonfiction, have been written about the disastrous sinking. Most of those books, at least the ones I've read, focus on the experience of the survivors on the Titanic itself. This book also looks at the horrific experiences of the survivors. What this one does that's different, is the focus on the captain and crew of the Carpathia, the ship that rescued the survivors. In alternating chapters, Connolly shares with readers two different perspectives. One perspective is that of Arthur Rostron, the captain of the Carpathia as he and his crew receive word of the Titanic's sinking and rush to help. The other perspective is that of Kate Connolly, an Irish immigrant, who is traveling to the United States in the company of several friends. The reader travels along with Kate and Captain Rostron as they face the tragedy and heartbreak of the disaster. The author does an excellent job of helping the reader feel the terror, shock, and grief that afflicted those on the Titanic. What makes the book especially powerful is the urgency that drove Captain Rostron and his crew as they worked feverishly to come to the aide of the Titanic. I think what struck me most about this book, and it's the reason I liked it so much, is that is personifies what I love so much about survival or disaster stories: the courage and determination and selflessness that people so often exhibit in the face of difficult circumstances. Connolly has done a fantastic job of sharing a fictionalized version of a true story focusing on real people and what they experienced over those few days. Highly recommended for those who enjoy a story that inspires both tears and admiration.

Thursday, April 28, 2022

Grief and forgiveness come together in this tender tale of family reunion. EVEN THE DOG KNOWS by Jason F. Wright

EVEN THE DOG KNOWS

A Novel

by Jason F. Wright

ISBN: 978-1-62972-990-9

Book cover & summary received from publisher.

ABOUT THE BOOK

A family’s old, beloved dog takes a final road trip to help his humans find forgiveness and healing. Meg Gorton finds herself alone and lonely in Florida. Three years earlier, she had packed what she could fit into her sister’s car and asked her estranged husband, Gary, to take care of Moses, their beloved black Labrador. Things between Meg and Gary hadn’t been the same after the loss of their only daughter many years ago. Even after raising their grandson, Troy, it was clear that if Meg wanted a new beginning, she would have to do it alone.

Haunted by the tragedy of his daughter’s death, Gary is stuck in his life in Woodstock, Virginia. He still owns and drives the bus for their hometown minor league baseball team, and he still thinks about the day his wife drove away.

Everything changes when Meg contacts Gary with a request to bring Moses to visit her one last time before the old dog passes on. Gary is reluctant, but Troy thinks it’s an excellent idea. They could even travel together in Gary’s bus. Along the way, Gary takes a detour to visit Troy’s ex-girlfriend, Grace. Gary might not know how to fix things with his wife, but he knows he doesn’t want Troy to make the same mistakes he did.

Although Moses is just a dog, he’s very observant. It doesn’t take long for him to figure out they are going on to see Meg. He knows he’s an old dog and that his time is near, but he also knows his family needs his help.

Even the Dog Knows is a novel that will take readers on a thousand-mile journey to find forgiveness, understanding, healing, and the meaning of true and lasting love.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JASON F. WRIGHT is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal and USA Today best-selling author. He is also the host of the popular podcast Wright Where You Are. He writes an occasional column, which as appeared in over one hundred newspapers, magazines and websites across the United States including the Washington Times, the Northern Virginia Daily, the Chicago Tribune, the Deseret News, Forbes, CNN.com, FoxNews.com and others.

Jason grew up in Charlottesville, Virginia, but has also lived in Germany, Illinois, Brazil, Oregon and Utah. In 2007, while researching Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley for a novel, Jason fell so in love with the area that he moved his family to Woodstock. He is married to Kodi Erekson Wright. They have two girls and two boys they love, and two grandchildren they love even more.

To invite Jason to your book club, school, church, conference or other event, connect online: jasonfwright.com, facebook.com/jfwbooks, Instagram.com/jasonfwright.

You can also reach Jason through a handwritten letter: PO Box 669, Woodstock, VA 22664. He answers—eventually!—every single one.

REVIEW

My heart was drawn into this touching story of love and loss right from the beginning. I felt drawn into Gary and Meg's relationship from the moment they meant. And then my heart broke when I read about the grief they experienced at the loss of their daughter and how it ultimately drove them apart. The story is told from three points of view, Gary, Meg, and their dog, Moses. This gives the reader more information and insight than any of the characters have by themselves. The addition of Troy, Gary and Meg's grandson who they raised as their own son, and his ex-girlfriend makes for an interesting additional plot line. The dog's point-of-view provides a different perspective on everything that is happening. Moses just wants to be with his family and for everything to work out.

When Meg, living in Florida, asks to see Moses one more time, Gary (very reluctantly), Troy, and Moses head out in the old bus that Gary uses to transport the local baseball team to games. The trip proves to be much more eventful than any of them would have expected. While the 'boys' are witnessing accidents, taking detours, and helping a homeless wanderer, Meg and her health care aide, Macy, prepare for their arrival.

The lessons learned and the hearts touched stayed with me as I completed the journey with the characters. Not only did I find this an interesting story, but the themes of family, grief, guilt, and forgiveness resonated with me as well. Wright knows how to tell a story, with enough detail to help the reader feel like they are right there with the characters. Ultimately, this is a story of hope, of love, and of overcoming obstacles and heartbreaking circumstances, not by accident or luck, but by choice.

TO PURCHASE

Thursday, December 23, 2021

KEEPSAKE CHRISTMAS STORIES: Holiday Favorites as Performed with The Tabernacle Choir

KEEPSAKE CHRISTMAS STORIES

Holiday Favorites as Performed with the Tabernacle Choir

Source: publisher for review (Thanks Shadow Mountain!)

ISBN: 978-1-62972-939-8

Short story collectible

ABOUT THE BOOK

This commemorative collector's edition celebrates twenty years of the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square's beloved Christmas show—an annual tradition enjoyed by millions, both live on stage and through its holiday season broadcast on PBS stations, where it has earned Grammy and Emmy awards and nominations. Each year the show is hosted by a distinguished special guest, including Jane Seymour, Tom Brokaw, Kristin Chenoweth, and Hugh Bonneville. These holiday story adaptions have ranged from The Gift of the Magi to the story behind the writing of the hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul" to the inspiring tale of "The Candy Bomber"—an unlikely American WWII hero who dropped candy from his airplane to the children of Germany.

This coffee table edition is the perfect holiday keepsake for all ages and features photographs of the stage productions alongside the stories, which also includes a weblink to hear the stories from every performance.

REVIEW

Keepsake Christmas Stories contains a written version of each of the stories shared on the Christmas Program produced by the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square for each of the last twenty years. For those, like me, who have loved each of those programs, it's wonderful to have a written collection of the wonderful stories shared at Christmas. The lyrics of the musical part of each story are included within the stories. While the stories have been adapted for print, the spirit and meaning of the stories remain just as powerful. Because each story was beautifully combined with music, dancing, and a stunning setting, a link is included so that each performance can be watched and enjoyed as it was originally presented. I love each of these stories both the fictional ones and the nonfiction ones. Some left me in tears such as "A Christmas Bell for Anya" or "The Little Match Girl" while others left me with a warm glow in my heart like "The Candy Bomber". For those like me who love inspiring stories to share during Christmas, this book is a must have.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

PROPER ROMANCE: The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen

THE MATCHMAKER'S LONELY HEART

by Nancy Campbell Allen

ISBN: 978-1-62972-927-5

Historical Romance

ABOUT THE BOOK

Amelie Hampton is a hopeless romantic, which makes her the perfect columnist to answer lonely heart letters in The Marriage Gazette. When Amelie plays matchmaker with two anonymous lonely hearts, she also decides to secretly observe the couple's blind date. To her surprise, the man who appears for the rendezvous is Harold Radcliffe—a grieving widower and a member of Amelie's book club.

Police detective Michael Baker has been struggling ever since his best friend and brother-in-law dies in the line of fire. Because he knows the dangers of his job, he has vowed never to marry and subject a wife and family to the uncertainty of his profession. But when he meets Miss Hampton, he is captured by her innocence, beauty, and her quick mind.

When a woman's body is pulled from the river, Michael suspects the woman's husband—Harold Radcliffe—of foul play. Amelie refuses to believe that Harold is capable of such violence but agrees to help, imagining it will be like one of her favorite mystery novels. Her social connections and clever observations prove an asset to the case, and Amelie is determined to prove Mr. Radcliffe's innocence. But the more time Amelie and Michael spend together, the more they trust each other, and the more they realize they are a good team, maybe the perfect match.

They also realize that Mr. Radcliffe is hiding more than one secret, and when his attention turns toward Amelie, Michael knows he must put an end to this case before the woman he loves comes to harm.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

NANCY CAMPBELL ALLEN is the award-winning author of eighteen published novels and several novellas, which encompass a variety of genres, ranging from contemporary romantic suspense to historical fiction. Her most recent books, which include Regency, Victorian, and steampunk romance, are published under Shadow Mountain’s Proper Romance brand, and the What Happens in Venice novella series is part of the Timeless Romance Anthology collection published by Mirror Press. She has presented at numerous conferences and events since her initial publication in 1999.

Nancy loves to read, write, travel, and research, and enjoys spending time with family and friends. She nurtures a current obsession for true crime podcasts and is a news junkie. She and her husband have three children, and she lives in Ogden, Utah, with her family, one very large Siberian Husky named Thor, and an obnoxious but endearing YorkiePoo named Freya.

REVIEW

This romantic suspense follows the adventures of a rather naïve young matchmaker who inadvertently gets involved in solving a murder. After Detective Michael Baker catches Amelia spying on a couple that she helped match, he enlists her help in getting close to Harold Radcliffe who he suspects of having murdered his wife. Amelia reluctantly agrees hoping to prove Mr. Radcliffe's innocence. What she doesn't expect is finding herself caught between Mr. Radcliffe's charm and Detective Baker's attractiveness. When a second murder occurs, it becomes clear that the risk to both Amelia and Michael and their loved ones is also increasing. If they don't find answers quickly, it may soon be too late.

Amelie and Michael both make for delightful reading. Amelie's romantic nature and touch of naivete made her a bit frustrating at times, but her spunk and determination balanced that out nicely. Michael makes for a solid hero with his dedication to finding the truth and to his family. The secondary characters were great also. Radcliffe makes for an intriguing, dangerous foe while Amelie's cousins, Eva and Charlotte stand as interesting characters all on their own. The plot takes several interesting twists along the way as does the romance. Not only does this book work well as a romance, but it's a fantastic mystery as well with plenty of action and adventure along the way. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would love to run into these characters again.

Tuesday, October 5, 2021

A PROPER ROMANCE : Brass Carriages and Glass Hearts by Nancy Campbell Allen

BRASS CARRIAGES AND GLASS HEARTS

A Steampunk Cinderella

by Nancy Campbell Allen

Shadow Mountain, 2020

ISBN: 978-1-62972-737-0

ABOUT THE BOOK

A steampunk retelling of Cinderella.

Emmeline O’Shea has been an outspoken advocate for the shapeshifter community, which has come under unjust attack from a political body known as the PSRC (Predatory Shifter Regulations Committee), and her robust efforts have landed her a prestigious position as the spokesperson for the International Shifter Rights Organization. She has been selected to give the final address in Scotland before they vote on legislation that will grant protective rights to the shifter community. Because she is fundamentally changing the laws, she is also receiving death threats.

Oliver Reed is a by-the-book detective-inspector who has dealt with Emme’s borderline-illegal activism in the past, and there is little love lost between the two. When his superior tasks Oliver with guarding Emme around the clock to keep her safe until the summit is over, he is frustrated. He has several open cases requiring his attention, and his spare time is occupied with chasing down leads about the whereabouts of his brother, Lawrence, a rogue vampire bent on causing trouble in Scotland.

When their airship is hijacked, Emme and Oliver are forced to parachute away before they exit British soil. Together the pair must make their way to Edinburgh so as not to miss the summit meeting where Emme will be key in helping to pass legislation that will disband the corrupt PSRC. But between her vindictive sister and Oliver’s rogue vampire brother, they face danger at every turn, not to mention dealing with their growing attraction for each other.

When Emme is kidnapped – Oliver must find her before it’s too late – and the summit ends at midnight.

REVIEW

I have absolutely adored Allen's Steampunk Proper Romance series. I am really sad to see it end, but this book definitely lives up to the rest of the series. Oliver Reed works for Scotland Yard as an Detective-Inspector. His job brings him into contact with Emmeline O'Shea who helps lead the movement to give shape-shifters rights under the law. Unfortunately, sometimes the rallies and protests she lead get out of control and turn violent. Emme and Oliver have been "enemies" for quite some time until Emme receives a nasty letter that requires Oliver to become her bodyguard until the writer is found. While this is annoying to Emme, she finds herself enjoying Oliver's company more than she imagined. But her ongoing efforts to help the shifters and her important upcoming speech at an international summit on shifter rights put her squarely in the sights of someone with horrible motives. Despite Oliver's best efforts, they get separated and must face their own familial enemies. While the cause of shifter rights survive without Emme's speech? Will Oliver and Emme meet again? Or will all their efforts have been for naught.

Not only are Emme and Oliver delightful characters who I thoroughly enjoyed reading about, but they also provide a very entertaining romance full of witty banter and plenty of death-defying action. I also enjoyed the appearance of their friends from the previous books. The action keeps the book moving forward at a rapid pace, leaving the reader on the edge of his/her seat. The steampunk details related to automatons, cars, and airships add to the atmosphere and excitement of the book. All in all a wonderful conclusion to an awesome series that I heartily recommend.

Tuesday, September 28, 2021

HISTORICAL FICTION : The Merchant and the Rogue by Sarah M. Eden

THE MERCHANT AND THE ROGUE

A Proper Romance

by Sarah M. Eden

ISBN: 978-1-62972-851-3

ABOUT THE BOOK

Vera Sorokina loves reading the penny dreadfuls and immersing herself in tales of adventure, mystery, and romance. Her own days are filled with the often mundane work of running the book and print shop she owns with her father. The shop offers her freedom and an income, and while she is grateful for the stability it brings to her life, she often feels lonely.

Brogan Donnelly was born and raised in Ireland, but has lived in London for several years, where he's built a career as a penny dreadful writer. He has dedicated himself to the plight of the poor with the help of his sister. But with no one to share his life with, he fears London will never truly feel like home.

When Brogan and Vera's paths cross, the attraction is both immediate and ill-advised. Vera knows from past experience that writers are never to be trusted, and Brogan has reason to suspect not everything at Vera's print shop is aboveboard. When a growing criminal enterprise begins targeting their area of London, Brogan and Vera must work together to protect the community they've both grown to love. But that means they'll need to learn to trust each other with dangerous secrets that have followed both of them from their home countries.

REVIEW

This third volume of the Dread Penny Society series focuses on Brogan Donnelly. When word of a plot against the Russian Ambassador arrives at the Dread Master's door, he sends Brogan to investigate the possible connection to a print shop. But in order to protect the Society, Brogan has to pretend to quit and work on his own, something he isn't comfortable doing. He also doesn't like to lie, but he has to use a fake name when he realizes that writers aren't welcome in the print shop where he takes a job. As he searches for information regarding the plot, he finds his interest in the printer's daughter who runs the shop growing. But without the help of his friends and the society can he figure out what's going on and stop it? And what about the lies? Will Vera forgive him when she discovers his deception or is he doomed to failure.

Sarah Eden has once again created an entertaining yet thoughtful tale of Regency England. I've especially enjoyed this series because the characters come from a variety of backgrounds, none of which involve wealth. In addition to the delightful romance, the mystery related to the plot involving the Russian ambassador was intricate and exciting. And the plot becomes even thicker when Vera and her whole neighborhood are extorted for protection money. The witty banter and the fabulous characters combined with intricate, fascinating plots make this series thoroughly engaging and fun. The inclusion of the penny dreadful tales adds interest as it reveals things about the characters who 'wrote' them. This is a series that I thoroughly enjoy and highly recommend.

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

The GENTLEMAN AND THE THIEF by Sarah M. Eden

THE GENTLEMAN AND THE THIEF

The Dread Penny Society #2

by Sarah M. Eden

Shadow Mountain, 2020

ISBN: 978-1-62972-790-5

ABOUT THE BOOK

From the moment Hollis Darby meets Ana Newport, he's smitten. Even though he's from a wealthy, established family and she isn't, he wishes he could have a life with her by his side. But Hollis has a secret: the deep coffers that have kept his family afloat for generations are bare, so he supports himself by writing penny dreadfuls under a pseudonym. If not for the income from his novels, he would be broke.

Ana Newport also has a secret. Though she once had a place in society thanks to her father's business, bankruptcy and scandal reduced the family fortune to nothing more than a crumbling town house. So Ana teaches music during the day, and at night she assumes the identity of the "Phantom Fox." She breaks into the homes of the wealthy to reclaim treasures she feels were unjustly stolen from her family when they were struggling.

When Hollis's brother needs to hire a music tutor for his daughter, Hollis recommends Ana, giving him a chance to spend time with her. Ana needs the income and is eager for the opportunity to get to know the enigmatic gentleman. What neither of them expects is how difficult it will be to keep their respective secrets from each other.

When a spree of robberies rocks the city, Ana and Hollis join forces to solve the crimes, but working together deepens the affection between them. After all, who better to save the day than a gentleman and a thief?

REVIEW

Sarah Eden has a knack for great dialogue and great characters. I think that's what I enjoy the most about her stories. Hollis Darby and Ana Newport are both unusual characters, which made it delightful to read about them. Hollis appears to be a gentleman in every way and yet he has interests and activities that upper level society would not approve of in the slightest. He writes penny dreadfuls, printed stories that society considers "low" literature but which many people read and enjoy. He also belongs to a secret society that works to help the poor and needy, especially those in trouble with a criminal mastermind known as the Mastiff. Ana's family has fallen from grace as a result of her father's partner's misconduct. She's turned to thievery in order to retrieve items of value to her that were stolen from her family after their fall. It turns out that Hollis and Ana have more in common than either one imagined and their going to need each other in order to take down a dangerous gambling ring that endangers Hollis's family as well as others.

Sarah Eden has written a marvelous book with lots of fun interactions between the characters as well as shorter "penny dreadful" like stories mixed in with the Hollis's and Ana's story. The settings are beautifully described and the characters are fascinating. One of the things that I enjoyed most about this story is the fact that most of the characters aren't upper class. Many of the regencies I've read focus on the upper classes. It's nice to read one that focuses on the struggles and challenges of life for those who aren't well off. Although it's heartbreaking as well to read about children being bought and sold and turned into thieves. Sarah Eden has written another superb tale well worth reading again and again.

Tuesday, May 18, 2021

A PROPER ROMANCE : Isabelle and Alexander by Rebecca Anderson

ISABELLE AND ALEXANDER

by Rebecca Anderson

Source: ARC from publisher for review.

ISBN: 978-1-62972-847-6

Source: ARC from publisher for review (Thank you!)

ABOUT THE BOOK

Isabelle Rackham knows she will not marry for love. Though arranged marriages have fallen out of fashion, hers has been settled for some time to combine the upper-middle-class wealth of her father's coal mines with Alexander Osgood's prospering Northern country textile mills. Though not a man prone to romantic gestures, Alexander is well-known as an eligible bachelor. His good looks have turned more than one head, so Isabelle is content to think of herself as Alexander's wife.

However, her marriage is not what she expected. Northern England is nothing like her home farther west in the lake country. Cold, dreary, and dark, the soot from the textile mills creates a gray hue that seems to cling to everything in the city of Manchester. Alexander is distant and aloof, preferring to spend his time at the mill rather than with her at home. Their few conversations are brief, polite, and lacking any emotion, leaving Isabelle lonely and desperately homesick.

Sensing his wife's unhappiness, Alexander suggests a trip to his country estate. Isabelle hopes this will be an opportunity to get to know her new husband without the distractions of his business. But the change of scenery doesn't bring them any closer. While riding together on horses, Alexander is thrown from his and becomes paralyzed. Tragedy or destiny? The help and care that Alexander now needs is Isabelle's opportunity to forge a connection and create a deep and romantic love where nothing else could.

REVIEW

This tender story of growing love in the face of tragic and difficult circumstances touched my heart in a lot of ways. Isabelle knows little about her new husband other than that he runs a successful mill and there marriage will benefit both him and her father. She hopes over time that she and Alexander can form a good relationship. What she didn't expect was his cold politeness and feelings constantly alone in a polluted and unknown city. Her only solace is the friendship she strikes up with the wife and daughter of one of Alexander's business managers. But after a trip to the countryside results in a terrible accident that leaves him unable to move much things get even more complicated. Isabelle's efforts to help to husband as well as find a place for herself in her new home made for compelling reading. Isabelle's goodness made her easy to cheer for as she tried to establish a relationship with her husband. Alexander is hard to connect with at first until, through Isabelle's eyes, I started to see the reasons for his behavior. The couple's struggles with both Alec's injury and the other consequences of it made for a thoroughly engaging read. I appreciated the details about Manchester and the mill business as well. Those kind of historical details helped the story come to life in a vivid way. All in all a delightful, sympathetic romance with the kind of details and emotion that I enjoy.

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

PROPER ROMANCE REVIEW : Lakeshire Park by Megan Walker

LAKESHIRE PARK

Proper Romance

by Megan Walker

Shadow Mountain, 2020

ISBN: 978-1-62972-734-9