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Phil Leader (619 KP) rated Storm Clouds Rolling In (Bregdan Chronicles #1) in Books
Nov 26, 2019
Describing this book makes it sound like it could be a tale of Southern romance set before the American Civil War; Carrie Cromwell is the teenage daughter of a plantation owner in Virginia and falls for the son of another plantation owner as the political and social storm of the events of the Civil War brew around them.
In reality however this is a far more complex work - yes the romance is there but it is very much overshadowed by the situation and events of the time. Firstly Carrie is not a Southern Belle happy to sit on the verandah and look after her hard working man - she wants to make something of herself and doesn't think that she will be happy running her father's plantation in later life. Secondly she has grave doubts about slavery, an institution that has become the basis of the plantation owner's very existence.
This novel then is far more an exploration of the confict the slave issue creates as well as the lack of opportunity for a bright woman to better herself in the nineteenth century.
The author does well with the slavery issue in presenting someone from the whole spectrum, from reactionary pro-slavery plantation owners to equally abhorrent abolitionlists who are in many ways just as bad. Carrie is very much undecided throughout the book and that is a good thing, we are essentially treated to a novel length essay on the causes of the civil war and the justifications for slavery that caused a lot of the friction, along with the North failing to take account of the depth of the pride of those in the South.
The characters are very well drawn, and although each more-or-less repesents one particular facet of the debate none are mere ciphers and indeed many of them evolve over time and change their outlook and opinions, not lease Carrie but also of note the slaves Rose and Moses, both young but who really grow during the course of the story. The author has necessarily put some perjorative terms for slaves in the mouths of some of her characters - for which she apologises in a brief forward - but this not only lends realism but underlines those characters attitudes towards the slaves.
The book does move at a relatively slow pace, and there are plenty of discussions around politics, society and slavery but it is quite immersive and acts to let each character become far more solid.
Overall a book I enjoyed and it provides a lot of insight into the state of America at the outbreak of war and why it happened
In reality however this is a far more complex work - yes the romance is there but it is very much overshadowed by the situation and events of the time. Firstly Carrie is not a Southern Belle happy to sit on the verandah and look after her hard working man - she wants to make something of herself and doesn't think that she will be happy running her father's plantation in later life. Secondly she has grave doubts about slavery, an institution that has become the basis of the plantation owner's very existence.
This novel then is far more an exploration of the confict the slave issue creates as well as the lack of opportunity for a bright woman to better herself in the nineteenth century.
The author does well with the slavery issue in presenting someone from the whole spectrum, from reactionary pro-slavery plantation owners to equally abhorrent abolitionlists who are in many ways just as bad. Carrie is very much undecided throughout the book and that is a good thing, we are essentially treated to a novel length essay on the causes of the civil war and the justifications for slavery that caused a lot of the friction, along with the North failing to take account of the depth of the pride of those in the South.
The characters are very well drawn, and although each more-or-less repesents one particular facet of the debate none are mere ciphers and indeed many of them evolve over time and change their outlook and opinions, not lease Carrie but also of note the slaves Rose and Moses, both young but who really grow during the course of the story. The author has necessarily put some perjorative terms for slaves in the mouths of some of her characters - for which she apologises in a brief forward - but this not only lends realism but underlines those characters attitudes towards the slaves.
The book does move at a relatively slow pace, and there are plenty of discussions around politics, society and slavery but it is quite immersive and acts to let each character become far more solid.
Overall a book I enjoyed and it provides a lot of insight into the state of America at the outbreak of war and why it happened
Hazel (1853 KP) rated In Picardy's Fields in Books
Nov 27, 2020
Told from two perspectives, In Picardy's Fields is the story of two brave young women during the First World War. Set mostly in France, the two women put gender stereotypes to one side to help the allied soldiers. Baroness Agnès de Saint-Aubin, a young surgeon from Paris, follows her teacher, Dr Alan Bell, to the Château de Dragoncourt on the front lines in Picardy to help her friends, Jacques and Elle de Dragoncourt care for the injured soldiers. Meanwhile, the youngest Dragoncourt child, Madeleine, is determined to escape from her finishing school in Switzerland to play her part in the war effort.
The author, Hannah Byron, accurately describes the devastation and dangers the characters faced both in Paris and at the front. Flowing seamlessly from scene to scene, Byron paints a dark picture of life in wartorn France at the same time as weaving a captivating story. Agnès is a reticent but strong woman, a stark contrast from the stuck-up Madeleine, used to getting her way. Yet both characters develop, forced to face horrifying circumstances. While Agnès becomes more confident, Madeleine uses her head-strong determination to secretly help the allied soldiers, even if it means putting herself in danger.
Whilst the war is the main feature of the novel, the author weaves themes of friendship and romance into the narrative. Although only two people narrate the story, In Picardy's Fields shows the importance of working together and putting aside prejudices. The undercurrent of a developing romance brings a sense of hope that everything will end happily, yet the reader also knows nothing is safe during wartime. With each turn of the page, disaster could befall the characters, which makes for a gripping read.
Hannah Byron admits she is not a medic or war expert, yet she undertook extensive research to make In Picardy's Fields as accurate as possible. She also confesses it is unlikely a female doctor went to the front lines, yet as a work of fiction, this does not matter, especially as Agnès's profession is key to the story.
Authors have written novels about the World Wars ad nauseum to the point that writing an original story seems impossible, but Hannah Byron proves this assumption wrong. In Picardy's Fields feels almost modern in some respects, despite being set in the 1910s, which adds a freshness to the story. These women, these characters are just like you and me, living in a time we could not possibly understand.
In Picardy's Fields is a fantastic debut novel and Hannah Byron is a writer to keep an eye on.
The author, Hannah Byron, accurately describes the devastation and dangers the characters faced both in Paris and at the front. Flowing seamlessly from scene to scene, Byron paints a dark picture of life in wartorn France at the same time as weaving a captivating story. Agnès is a reticent but strong woman, a stark contrast from the stuck-up Madeleine, used to getting her way. Yet both characters develop, forced to face horrifying circumstances. While Agnès becomes more confident, Madeleine uses her head-strong determination to secretly help the allied soldiers, even if it means putting herself in danger.
Whilst the war is the main feature of the novel, the author weaves themes of friendship and romance into the narrative. Although only two people narrate the story, In Picardy's Fields shows the importance of working together and putting aside prejudices. The undercurrent of a developing romance brings a sense of hope that everything will end happily, yet the reader also knows nothing is safe during wartime. With each turn of the page, disaster could befall the characters, which makes for a gripping read.
Hannah Byron admits she is not a medic or war expert, yet she undertook extensive research to make In Picardy's Fields as accurate as possible. She also confesses it is unlikely a female doctor went to the front lines, yet as a work of fiction, this does not matter, especially as Agnès's profession is key to the story.
Authors have written novels about the World Wars ad nauseum to the point that writing an original story seems impossible, but Hannah Byron proves this assumption wrong. In Picardy's Fields feels almost modern in some respects, despite being set in the 1910s, which adds a freshness to the story. These women, these characters are just like you and me, living in a time we could not possibly understand.
In Picardy's Fields is a fantastic debut novel and Hannah Byron is a writer to keep an eye on.
Morgan Sheppard (926 KP) rated Call Me Michigan in Books
Jan 9, 2018
This is a second chance novel - Mason and Tyler were best friends in their younger years, although both of them wanted more, neither of them said anything. When Tyler left home under difficult circumstances, Mason got blinding drunk before chasing after her and giving her a drunken kiss. Now, this is not guaranteed to win anyone over, so unsurprisingly, Tyler leaves anyway. Fast forward a few years, and Tyler returns to take care of her family. Of course, the first person she sees is Mason, although he doesn't recognise her. Things are about to change for the pair of them.
This is a well written, fast moving and smoothly paced contemporary romance, showing character growth and not just with the two main characters. With getting to know each other again, things don't go exactly smoothly. However, things eventually work out for them, which is good because the situation is about to get a whole more complicated.
This is a story guaranteed to give you the warm fuzzies, at the same time as you laugh and cry with the characters and the situations they find themselves in. Definitely recommended by me.
* I was given this book in return for a review which has in no way affected my opinion. *
This is a well written, fast moving and smoothly paced contemporary romance, showing character growth and not just with the two main characters. With getting to know each other again, things don't go exactly smoothly. However, things eventually work out for them, which is good because the situation is about to get a whole more complicated.
This is a story guaranteed to give you the warm fuzzies, at the same time as you laugh and cry with the characters and the situations they find themselves in. Definitely recommended by me.
* I was given this book in return for a review which has in no way affected my opinion. *
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated Yours Until Dawn in Books
Feb 15, 2019
Yours Until Dawn is an enchanting novel about a nurse, Samatha Wickersham, and Gabriel Fairchild, a man left scarred and blinded from war.
The banter and encounters with each other throughout the book are wonderful. The wit made me laugh out loud many times. Out of all the romance books I've read, in which some you like the heroine more than the hero and vice versa, Samantha and Gabriel are two of the most well drawn out characters, and I liked them equally. I grew to love these characters, and they are definitely two of my favorites ever.
The big 'surprise twist' near the end I figured out pretty early in the book, but it shocked me still the same because I was hoping it wasn't the case, but alas, it was. While it kind of jolted the book off it's path, the end almost made up for it, but I still think it would have been a better book if TM hadn't written that part. Still, on the whole it's a terrific book.
Yours Until Dawn will keep you up way past bedtime, as it did with me, so I'd recommend starting it early as you will not be able to put it down. A wonderful, touching book. Magical!
4.5/5 stars
The banter and encounters with each other throughout the book are wonderful. The wit made me laugh out loud many times. Out of all the romance books I've read, in which some you like the heroine more than the hero and vice versa, Samantha and Gabriel are two of the most well drawn out characters, and I liked them equally. I grew to love these characters, and they are definitely two of my favorites ever.
The big 'surprise twist' near the end I figured out pretty early in the book, but it shocked me still the same because I was hoping it wasn't the case, but alas, it was. While it kind of jolted the book off it's path, the end almost made up for it, but I still think it would have been a better book if TM hadn't written that part. Still, on the whole it's a terrific book.
Yours Until Dawn will keep you up way past bedtime, as it did with me, so I'd recommend starting it early as you will not be able to put it down. A wonderful, touching book. Magical!
4.5/5 stars
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated Beneath the Surface (Dive Team Investigations, #1) in Books
Feb 27, 2019
I love finding new to me authors, especially when it’s one like this! Ms. Blackburn is a fantastic author! She has created a wonderful story, full of amazing characters and I was hooked from the first page. Each page, each new character, each new plot twist had me on the edge of my seat and staying up late to finish the intense, captivating ride.
I loved Ryan and Leigh so much! They were wonderfully chiseled and their feelings really jumped off the page and became my own. The way they interacted and the way their story just pulled together was fantabulous.
This is a 4 star worthy novel and each page is fantastically done. The intensity of the crimes, the grace and mercy that’s woven in, the sparks of romance between characters really pull the reader into the middle of the story and doesn’t let them go. This is one of those books that will stay with you long, long past the last page. I’m highly anticipating the release of book in this fantastic new series! Well done, Ms. Blackburn! You’ve got a forever fan in me!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
I loved Ryan and Leigh so much! They were wonderfully chiseled and their feelings really jumped off the page and became my own. The way they interacted and the way their story just pulled together was fantabulous.
This is a 4 star worthy novel and each page is fantastically done. The intensity of the crimes, the grace and mercy that’s woven in, the sparks of romance between characters really pull the reader into the middle of the story and doesn’t let them go. This is one of those books that will stay with you long, long past the last page. I’m highly anticipating the release of book in this fantastic new series! Well done, Ms. Blackburn! You’ve got a forever fan in me!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
ArecRain (8 KP) rated A Bride in the Bargain in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I couldnt help but fall in love with this one. With Gist, its hit or miss with me, and this one definitely hit. I love nothing than a good historical romance, and this is definitely a favorite.
I first fell in love with the characters. Determined and hardworking, Joe and Anna both have their own plans and try to use each other to accomplish them. However, Annas plans contradict Joes and they are thrown into quite.
I then fell in love with the world Gist conveyed through her talented writing. She has a way of taking you back into that time and making you part of that world.
Normally, I would find the plot interesting all, but Gist had me interested. I think it was because I was so caught up in Joe, Anna, and their problems that I forgot to be bored with a plot that normally wouldnt do anything for me. Instead, I found myself rooting for Anna and Joe not only as a couple but as people.
Gist always has to through a wrench into things to make them interesting. I could have kicked her for it this novel, but the fact that she gave me an ending I was happy with made it for it. Maybe.
I first fell in love with the characters. Determined and hardworking, Joe and Anna both have their own plans and try to use each other to accomplish them. However, Annas plans contradict Joes and they are thrown into quite.
I then fell in love with the world Gist conveyed through her talented writing. She has a way of taking you back into that time and making you part of that world.
Normally, I would find the plot interesting all, but Gist had me interested. I think it was because I was so caught up in Joe, Anna, and their problems that I forgot to be bored with a plot that normally wouldnt do anything for me. Instead, I found myself rooting for Anna and Joe not only as a couple but as people.
Gist always has to through a wrench into things to make them interesting. I could have kicked her for it this novel, but the fact that she gave me an ending I was happy with made it for it. Maybe.
ArecRain (8 KP) rated Share and Share Alike (Aspen Valley, #3) in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review
The third in the series has more of suspense feel to it than the others, I have to say it didnt work for me. I dont really do suspense even when its paired with romance, so I found myself enjoying this novel less than the first two. I did enjoy how much love these characters had for animals. As someone who loves all animals (I am that person who wont step on a spider!), it warmed my heart to see their devotion.
The bottomline is that, despite not enjoying the mystery/suspense aspect, it was an enjoyable read. The characters are easy to like and their actions make more sense than those of characters in the previous installment. This was one of those novels where I enjoyed reading about the journey rather than reading towards the goal.
Its also much easier to pick up on the language after read a few of these novels. If you are not used to European, particularly British, terms, then it could throw you off. The author makes sure these dont actually interfere with the story, however.
_ Arec
<a href="https://rainythursdays.wordpress.com">Rainy Thursdays</a>
The third in the series has more of suspense feel to it than the others, I have to say it didnt work for me. I dont really do suspense even when its paired with romance, so I found myself enjoying this novel less than the first two. I did enjoy how much love these characters had for animals. As someone who loves all animals (I am that person who wont step on a spider!), it warmed my heart to see their devotion.
The bottomline is that, despite not enjoying the mystery/suspense aspect, it was an enjoyable read. The characters are easy to like and their actions make more sense than those of characters in the previous installment. This was one of those novels where I enjoyed reading about the journey rather than reading towards the goal.
Its also much easier to pick up on the language after read a few of these novels. If you are not used to European, particularly British, terms, then it could throw you off. The author makes sure these dont actually interfere with the story, however.
_ Arec
<a href="https://rainythursdays.wordpress.com">Rainy Thursdays</a>
I loved this book because of the subject it deals with. Very rarely are we given a good girl willing to do bad things to make their situation. Usually, the heroine is a hard-working woman with strict morals. While Emily is a hard-working young woman, she is tired of working so hard and not getting anywhere. She is tired of being poor. Enter Eric, an equally hard-working American man who wants to be able to live his dream of being a photographer while still debtors prisoner.
In each other, they see a way to achieve their dreams and embark on a journey that doesnt exactly turn out how they imagine. They didnt dream of falling for each other.
The novel doesnt show their lives in a glamorous way. In fact, it shows them how they really are as they struggle with their situations. What I loved the most was the development of their relationship. Romance novels where the couple is suddenly in love is annoying on so many levels. In </i>Mistress</i>, the reader watches them want each other and eventually fall for each other. Of course, there are many bumps along the way.
In each other, they see a way to achieve their dreams and embark on a journey that doesnt exactly turn out how they imagine. They didnt dream of falling for each other.
The novel doesnt show their lives in a glamorous way. In fact, it shows them how they really are as they struggle with their situations. What I loved the most was the development of their relationship. Romance novels where the couple is suddenly in love is annoying on so many levels. In </i>Mistress</i>, the reader watches them want each other and eventually fall for each other. Of course, there are many bumps along the way.
Dana (24 KP) rated Glass Sword in Books
Mar 23, 2018
I give this book a 3.5-4 stars.
I did not like this book as much as I did the first novel, Red Queen. I think this is because it is the second book, and a lot of times, the second book is meh.
I feel like the characters did not develop much from the first book. It may have been because the narrator Mare was skewing the other characters, but it just didn't do it for me I guess. The new characters were cool, but we didn't get to know them enough, in my opinion. I did not feel attached to any of them.
I did like how the plot was moving along. I think it developed very well and has introduced a lot of things that we will get to adventure through in the next book to come. There were some pretty cool moments in battles and some turns that I didn't see coming, so that was really nice. And I especially loved the ending.
There wasn't much of the romance, but it did get very angsty for quite a bit of the story.
I am excited for the next book to come out to see what will happen to the characters! I honestly think the next book will be amazing!
I did not like this book as much as I did the first novel, Red Queen. I think this is because it is the second book, and a lot of times, the second book is meh.
I feel like the characters did not develop much from the first book. It may have been because the narrator Mare was skewing the other characters, but it just didn't do it for me I guess. The new characters were cool, but we didn't get to know them enough, in my opinion. I did not feel attached to any of them.
I did like how the plot was moving along. I think it developed very well and has introduced a lot of things that we will get to adventure through in the next book to come. There were some pretty cool moments in battles and some turns that I didn't see coming, so that was really nice. And I especially loved the ending.
There wasn't much of the romance, but it did get very angsty for quite a bit of the story.
I am excited for the next book to come out to see what will happen to the characters! I honestly think the next book will be amazing!
Erika Kehlet (21 KP) rated The Silver Witch in Books
Feb 21, 2018
This novel is told in both the present and in ancient Celtic times, both storylines taking place in the same locale. In present day Wales, following the death of her husband, Tilda moves into the house that she and Matt had purchased to start their new life in together. After spending some time alone in her cottage, Tilda starts to experience strange things, and finds a new sort of power developing inside her. In ancient times, we hear the story of Seren, a shaman and seer to a Celtic Prince who lived on a man-made island in the middle of the lake near Tilda's cottage.
Each story on its is intriguing. We know early on that there is a connection between the two women, but it takes longer for Tilda to realize why she feels such an affinity for the lake and the area around her new home. By the time she does, her life and the life of her new love may be in more danger than she can handle.
This book has a little bit of everything. Historical fiction, fantasy, suspense, and a touch of romance. I highly recommend this one if you are a fan of any of those genres.
Each story on its is intriguing. We know early on that there is a connection between the two women, but it takes longer for Tilda to realize why she feels such an affinity for the lake and the area around her new home. By the time she does, her life and the life of her new love may be in more danger than she can handle.
This book has a little bit of everything. Historical fiction, fantasy, suspense, and a touch of romance. I highly recommend this one if you are a fan of any of those genres.