Pixels and Paint - Review

Pixels and Paint (Trinket Sisters, # 1)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Publication: July 4, 2023 by Oholiab Creations

362 pages

Genre: Contemporary, Romance

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--For Emma Trinket, life is a delicate balancing act between loving her family and pursuing interests they don’t understand. When the opportunity arises to finally impress them with her job as a computer programmer, she jumps at it even if it means immersing herself in a world she’s despised since childhood. Unfortunately the one man who could crush her prospects is also the best person to help her navigate the lessons she needs to be a success. Artistic expression is both Carter Anderson’s safe space and his livelihood, but his fading inspiration has him worried about his place in life. His encounters with Emma spark a passion to create that he hasn’t felt in years and he isn’t ready to let go of his new muse even if she’s threatening the sanctity of his art world with her digital technologies. As each tries to gain an advantage from the other, Emma and Carter discover they actually might be more compatible than they thought. Will that be enough to unify their opposing missions or will the real differences between pixels and paint tear them apart?

I have long been a fan of Kristi Ann Hunter. And I've been stalking her Goodreads page to see if she had any new releases coming up. And there was nothing and nothing and nothing. And then wham! One day, she had a CONTEMPORARY new release coming. I was shocked. She's always written historical fiction. So I wasn't sure how things would go with her switching genres, but I knew I wanted to check it out. One thing that was a little off-putting to me though was the cover. I can't say that I'm a fan. The characters look a little too cartoony. I'm not the biggest fan of these illustrated types of covers anyway. And I think it was the cover added to the genre switch that had me putting off picking this book up immediately. I finally got a place where I knew I needed to read a review book, and so I chose this one.

I've got to say that Kristi Ann Hunter did the genre switch well. I didn't feel like historical fiction speech patterns were coming out in her writing here, which I imagine might be one of the more challenging parts of switching genres. I was hooked decently early. And I even stayed up until midnight one night reading Pixels and Paint.

Let's talk about Emma. She grew up in a creative family. Her mother and aunt own a clothing boutique, and her twin sister, Amy, has since joined the boutique as a clothing designer. Emma doesn't feel like she fits in with her family. But she allows them to dictate her life in many ways. Amy creates a "look book" for Emma and fills her closet with designer clothing that she's styled with jewelry, a handbag, and shoes to complete each outfit. Emma only wears these outfits to functions she attends with her family. When she was in college, Emma found an entirely new approach to life. She realized that she could dress for comfort, which has resulted in her wearing yoga pants, leggings, and pajama pants with oversized hoodies in her every day life. She also became a computer programmer. And she has no understanding or appreciation for art at all. As a matter of fact, she kind of hates it.

Carter is an artist. He sees Emma at an art gallery showing that she attended with and for her sister. He watches her across the room because she seems contradictory. She is fashionably dressed but doesn't appear to appreciate the art. She almost doesn't even seem comfortable in her own skin. And for the first time in years, Carter is inspired. But you can see how there might an issue with an artist dating someone who practically hates art. When Emma takes on a design project that she initially didn't even want, she soon becomes passionate about the project, and she enlists Carter to become her teacher in appreciating the arts.

Since I was a programmer before becoming a stay-at-home mom, I could immediately see that Emma's job of programming code could be viewed as art...just a different medium. So there was a period where I was a little annoyed that Emma and even Carter couldn't see that. I appreciated her journey to finding herself. And Carter also goes through some transitions as well.

One thing that didn't bother me when I was reading, but I feel like is necessary to mention in the analysis of Pixels and Paint is that these characters were claiming to be Christians. They do mention God, Jesus, going to church, and even some outreach. But I struggled with the character's relationship with Jesus because neither one of them reached out to pray or read Scripture when they were faced with difficulty. It felt like a convenient thing to add to the book to check the Christian box. I didn't see their faith propelling them to action or driving them back to relation with Christ even though He was mentioned once or twice.

Favorite quotes:

-A big of peanut butter M&Ms is not worth the agony I will endure over the next hour as the visions before me burn through the backs of my eyes and imprint themselves in my brain.

This quote reminded me that there were a lot of mistakes in my galley edition for review. I am sure those were corrected in a final editing pass.

-"My point is, even if this is the end with him, even if you cry into your cornflakes for a few weeks, you're better for this time you had with him. Don't count it all bad."

I liked this quote because I felt this when I was dating as well. With each relationship, I felt I was being refined as well as refining what it was I was looking for in a spouse and getting closer and closer to the mark each time. I don't regret the past relationships that I had because of what they taught me and how they led me to where I am now.

-"The way you see the world isn't the only way to see it."

I can definitely be guilty of this. Sometimes my way of thinking can be so ingrained that it literally surprises me when others disagree. It's not that I think I'm always right. It's just that sometimes I forget that others see things differently than I do.

In the end, I think Kristi Ann Hunter did a good job with her first published contemporary novel. I enjoyed Pixels and Paint. I was pulled into her story from the beginning the same way I have found myself pulled into her historical fiction stories. At no point did I think this book sounded like historical fiction which means she did her job well switching genres. I liked Carter and Emma. I appreciated their journey even when some things felt a little obvious, and even despite the lack of religious backbone given to the story or characters. Overall. I think Pixels and Paint gets 4 Stars, and I'm looking forward to continuing the series with Amy's story. Have you read Pixels and Paint? What did you think? Let me know!

Can't Wait for Pixels and Paint

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

Pixels and Paint (Trinket Sisters, # 1)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: July 1, 2023

362 pages

Genre: Contemporary, Romance

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--For Emma Trinket, life is a delicate balancing act between loving her family and pursuing interests they don’t understand. When the opportunity arises to finally impress them with her job as a computer programmer, she jumps at it even if it means immersing herself in a world she’s despised since childhood. Unfortunately the one man who could crush her prospects is also the best person to help her navigate the lessons she needs to be a success. Artistic expression is both Carter Anderson’s safe space and his livelihood, but his fading inspiration has him worried about his place in life. His encounters with Emma spark a passion to create that he hasn’t felt in years and he isn’t ready to let go of his new muse even if she’s threatening the sanctity of his art world with her digital technologies. As each tries to gain an advantage from the other, Emma and Carter discover they actually might be more compatible than they thought. Will that be enough to unify their opposing missions or will the real differences between pixels and paint tear them apart?

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

Enchanting the Heiress - Review

Enchanting the Heiress (Hearts on the Heath, # 3)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: March 1st 2022 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Harriet Hancock likes to make the lives of those around her better whether they like it or not. So, she is surprised when her friend Sophia Whitworth has ideas of her own on how to make Harriet happier--by throwing her together with Sophia's brother, stable hand Jonas Fitzroy. When Harriet discovers his natural way with words, she hatches a plan that would benefit them both.

Holding a grudge against Harriet for her meddling in Sophia's life, it is only because of his sister that Jonas agrees to approach Harriet about a possible artistic project. What he doesn't expect is for her to request his help writing a book. As they work together, they start to see each other in a different light, but when the truth of Harriet's schemes is revealed, she'll find her good intentions for once have gone too far.

For some reason, I wasn't excited about reading Harriet's story. And then, when I found out that she was paired up with Jonas, I was honestly even less excited about this story. Yet I wanted to complete the series, and I have found Kristi Ann Hunter to be a favorite author. I shouldn't have worried. Kristi Ann Hunter proved my worries unfounded. Thankfully, Enchanting the Heiress didn't take too long to hook my interest, and I quickly read the entire book.

I don't know that I've read a story quite like this one before even though parts here and there would be similar to other stories. Harriet has a desire deep within her to make the lives of others around her better. She sees a need and she steps in to fill it. She hears of a desire and she manipulates people like a chessboard to get others in the right place for those desires to be fulfilled. In some ways, this is a selfless and wonderful quality to possess. A desire to make better the lives of others is applaudable. Yet, Jonas takes issue with what he sees as Harriet meddling where she doesn't belong.

Jonas is content. He's happy and thankful to be stable and stationary after traveling with the circus. He isn't ambitious. He doesn't feel like he needs much of anything. He doesn't feel a draw to many people to form relationships, and he doesn't seek to improve his circumstances like many would. Yet Sophia can't stand to see her brother's talents go to waste. Sophia is the one who recruits Harriet to help Jonas, but Harriet decides to go about things in her own way.

I loved their journey. And in some ways Enchanting the Heiress was about how to craft a story. I always appreciate books where insight is given into the writing and publishing process. Of course, Harriet never truly desired to write a book.

Favorite quotes:

-"I had other dreams only because I didn't know about this one."

-"...love doesn't demand what it wants. Instead, it will sacrifice itself to give the other person what they need."

-Life always held room for improvement, didn't it?

-Why was it so difficult for people to understand that helping others was its own reward? It was a purpose in and of itself.

-"I hardly think my independence is affecting the construction of your sentences."

-He'd never been a coward, and he wasn't going to start now.

-"Respect can be restored. A lost opportunity cannot."

Enchanting the Heiress was so much more enjoyable than I feared. I don't really know why I was initially put off by Harriet. I'd probably need to go back and re-read the prior books in the series, but I liked just about every aspect of this story. I also reviewed another book recently where I commented on the number of Scripture used. I'm pretty sure Enchanting the Heiress had more than that book, but for someone who might take issue with this, none of the Scripture felt preachy. All of it felt relevant to the characters. Enchanting the Heiress gets 4 Stars. Have you read Enchanting the Heiress? What did you think? Let me know!

Can't Wait for Enchanting the Heiress

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

Enchanting the Heiress (Hearts on the Heath, # 3)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: March 1st 2022 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Harriet Hancock likes to make the lives of those around her better whether they like it or not. So, she is surprised when her friend Sophia Whitworth has ideas of her own on how to make Harriet happier--by throwing her together with Sophia's brother, stable hand Jonas Fitzroy. When Harriet discovers his natural way with words, she hatches a plan that would benefit them both.

Holding a grudge against Harriet for her meddling in Sophia's life, it is only because of his sister that Jonas agrees to approach Harriet about a possible artistic project. What he doesn't expect is for her to request his help writing a book. As they work together, they start to see each other in a different light, but when the truth of Harriet's schemes is revealed, she'll find her good intentions for once have gone too far.

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

Winning the Gentleman - Review

Winning the Gentleman (Hearts on the Heath, # 2)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: April 20th 2021 by Bethany House Publishers

416 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Aaron Whitworth hasn't had control over most aspects of his life, but he's always taken pride in being an honorable businessman and better-than-average horseman. When both of those claims are threatened, he makes the desperate decision to hire the horse trainer of a traveling circus as a temporary jockey for his racehorses.

Sophia Fitzroy knows that most horsemen don't take her seriously because she's a woman, but she can't pass up the opportunity to get away from the tumultuous world of travel and performing. As she fights for the right to do the work she was hired for, she learns the fight for Aaron's guarded heart might be an even more worthwhile challenge.

As secrets come to light and past vulnerabilities are confronted, will Aaron and Sophia sacrifice their former dreams and forge a new one together--against all odds?

I remember first meeting Aaron in the Haven Manor series. I remember wishing even back then for Aaron to have his own book, yet by the time we made it to his story, I could barely remember his involvement in that series. Of course, he was a prominent character in the prior book of this series, Hearts on the Heath as he is the caretaker and manager of Hudson's stables. He also manages his friend Oliver's stables. So I was familiar with him and most of his backstory before starting Winning the Gentleman. What wasn't known was his emotions or how he processes information and experiences.

Sophia was a complete unknown. She and her brother lost their parents a few years back. Her father was a horse trainer, and all Sophia has ever wanted to do is to train others the way her father taught her. Unfortunately, she and her brother were too young to take over the riding school when he passed. They ended up with jobs in the traveling circus when her brother was injured and could no longer ride. Sophia tricks Aaron into hiring her as a jockey for Oliver's racehorses, thinking he's hiring her brother.

I loved how Aaron was too honorable to back out of his deal with Sophia when the truth was known. I loved how he had to work through his history with his father. I loved the budding relationship he has with his half-brother (who I would love to read more about). I loved Sophia's determination to prove herself and do what no other woman (at that time) had done or would consider doing. And of course, I enjoyed the building relationship between Aaron and Sophia.

Unfortunately, this is one of those times when I let a bit too much time go by between reading the book and reviewing it. So I know I had much more put-together thoughts concerning the storyline and conflict. But this is the life of a mom of 3 kiddos 5 and under. Thankfully, I highlighted a good bit so that sparked my memory, and I can include some of my favorite quotes.

Favorite quotes:

-If there was one thing he’d learned in his years on the edge of society, it was that the appearance of confidence was almost as good as possessing it.

-He’d thought he and the Almighty had a decent agreement. Aaron didn’t ask God for miracles, and the Deity didn’t make Aaron’s life any more difficult than it already was. Somewhere along the way, that deal had faltered.

-Next time he saw Kit, he was definitely going to frown at her.

You really need the context for that one, but it made me laugh so I had to include it.

-...angry people rarely thought logically when declaring a verdict.

-If he had nothing to ask for, was his life really lacking? He’d always seen himself as having less because he couldn’t claim life the way his friends did. Yet he had everything he’d ever wanted, everything he’d ever been willing to allow in.

-What did it mean when you got everything you wanted but you still weren’t happy?

Winning the Gentleman was a fast, enjoyable read. It has been one of the few books that have kept my attention since having Baby Boy. I loved the characters' personal challenges to overcome. Aaron has to figure out what he really thinks of himself and what he deserves. Sophia has to battle the cultural norms for what a woman's place is, and I loved how determined she was to see her dreams come true. Winning the Gentleman gets 3.5 Stars. Have you read Winning the Gentleman? What did you think? Let me know!

Can't Wait for Winning the Gentleman

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

Winning the Gentleman (Hearts on the Heath, # 2)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: April 20th 2021 by Bethany House Publishers

416 pages

Genre: Adult, Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Aaron Whitworth hasn't had control over most aspects of his life, but he's always taken pride in being an honorable businessman and better-than-average horseman. When both of those claims are threatened, he makes the desperate decision to hire the horse trainer of a traveling circus as a temporary jockey for his racehorses.

Sophia Fitzroy knows that most horsemen don't take her seriously because she's a woman, but she can't pass up the opportunity to get away from the tumultuous world of travel and performing. As she fights for the right to do the work she was hired for, she learns the fight for Aaron's guarded heart might be an even more worthwhile challenge.

As secrets come to light and past vulnerabilities are confronted, will Aaron and Sophia sacrifice their former dreams and forge a new one together--against all odds?

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

Vying for the Viscount - Review

Vying for the Viscount (Hearts on the Heath, # 1)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: August 4th 2020 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--When a strange man appears to be stealing horses at the neighboring estate, Bianca Snowley jumps to their rescue. And when she discovers he's the new owner, she can't help but be intrigued--but romance is unfeasible when he proposes they help secure spouses for each other. Will they see everything they've wanted has been there all along before it's too late?

The description for Vying for the Viscount was a little vague. Here's what you need to know. Hudson's grandfather is a Viscount. His father fled to India because his brother (Hudson's uncle) threatened to kill any heirs to the title. Hudson was born and lived his entire life in India. Yet he was trained and educated to take over the title one day. His grandfather eventually passes away and Hudson heads back to England to take his rightful place. Yet he thought the transition would be much simpler. Social customs are different, the weather is different...almost everything is different. Except for the horses.

Bianca has always been allowed to kind of do her own things. Her stepmother was always more concerned with her own daughter. But Bianca's father has informed the stepmother that Bianca's younger half-sister should not get married before Bianca. Now her stepmother is set on marrying her off to the one man she can't fathom being married to. Yet she has no other prospects. She's been so uninterested in social things and the idea of a husband that she's let her prospects slip by. Now she's motivated to find a match on her own. She would love to marry for love, but she hopes she can at least marry a man she will respect.

Bianca and Hudson repeatedly encounter one another because Bianca has an agreement with the stable manager to exercise one of the horses at Hudson's estate every day. Bianca loves riding and being able to continue to do so is of huge importance in her choosing a husband. Hudson is so determined to establish and prove himself as a worthy heir to his title, estate, and his grandfather's stable that he sets his sights on a woman who comes with a racehorse stud as part of her dowry. The problem comes in that Hudson does not know how to navigate English society. Bianca chooses to help him even when recognizing early on that she wishes he would set his sights on her.

Bianca's admiration continues to grow with the exposure she has to Hudson. The more opportunities they have to converse the more she realizes her regard for him. He, however, is oblivious. And this made for one of the more difficult parts of the story for me. I connected easily enough to Bianca and her heart. I appreciated her struggles and her heart pining for a man that didn't seem to return her affections. But it was disappointing that Hudson's attention was so thoroughly directed away from Bianca for so long in the book. I was disappointed at how late he realized his feelings. I did appreciate that there wasn't a complete bow put on the entire relationship but rather the expectation of a complete happily ever after.

I will say that my favorite part is the fan-service in tying in characters from Kristi Ann Hunter's prior series. Trent and Adelaide from the Hawthorne House series were present and others from the Haven Manor series were mentioned. I can't say that Bianca and Hudson have my favorite love story from Kristi Ann Hunter, but I did enjoy this book. And more than anything, I can't wait to read Aaron's story next. Vying for the Viscount gets 3.5 Stars. Have you read Vying for the Viscount? What did you think? Let me know!

Top Ten Most Anticipated Books of Q3/Q4 2020

Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together. This week's topic is Top Ten Most Anticipated Books of Q3/Q4 2020.

 

Can't Wait for Vying for the Viscount

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

Vying for the Viscount (Hearts on the Heath, # 1)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: August 4th 2020 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--When a strange man appears to be stealing horses at the neighboring estate, Bianca Snowley jumps to their rescue. And when she discovers he's the new owner, she can't help but be intrigued--but romance is unfeasible when he proposes they help secure spouses for each other. Will they see everything they've wanted has been there all along before it's too late?

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

A Pursuit of Home - Review

A Pursuit of Home (Haven Manor, # 3)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: November 5th 2019 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--When she learns the family she thought dead might be alive and in danger, Jess Beuchene knows her secrets can only stay buried for so long. Desperation brings her to Derek Thornbury, an expert in history and artifacts, to help her decipher the clues in an old family diary. Will their search to uncover the truth of the past lead to a future together?

I have been a big fan of Jess since A Noble Masquerade. Honestly, it took me way too long to realize Jess was an overlapping character. But I've loved Jess and have been waiting to hear her story for a long time.

I'm not sure that Kristi Ann Hunter had Jess's entire history and story planned from the beginning or if it wasn't until this book that she explored it all. Either way, there were certain pieces from the very beginning that trickled into the big picture for Jess.

I wasn't certain about Jess pairing up with Derek who is essentially a huge art nerd. These two do seem to fit when all is said and done, but they certainly don't have a traditionally romantic story. What happened fits with these two characters, but it isn't my normal preference as I like a bit more.

The mystery Jess is involved in takes over the majority of the book. I couldn't decide if I preferred the completely fictional country and its issues or if I would have liked something more true to history. Everything made sense in the end, but I don't think A Pursuit of Home is my favorite of the Haven Manor series.

Jess is such a strong character. She jumped off the page from all the way back to a series where she was only a side character. I loved how Ryland and Miranda were involved in the storyline. But I wish there was a bit more romance between Derek and Jess even though what happened fits with the characters and the situation they were facing. A Pursuit of Home gets 3.5 Stars. Have you read A Pursuit of Home? What did you think? Let me know!

Top Ten Auto-Buy Authors

Top 10 Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish, but is currently hosted by The Artsy Reader Girl. This week's topic is Top Ten Auto-Buy Authors.

Interestingly enough, there are no 100% auto-buy authors for me. I have authors that I've read all of their published books and would certainly check out anything else they publish in the future. But I have certain topics that are just off limits. So *shrugs* this is as close as I get to an auto-buy list. I've done this topic in the past and it was interesting to go back and see which authors have fallen off my top ten list and which have remained. Here's my list from 2015 and 2013.

1. Colleen Hoover - So I've been a CoHort from way back when. Slammed was my first read by her when it was available on NetGalley. I've loved all of her books and have read each and every one of them.
2. Kasie West - I've read all of her published books. And since her content has always been clean I can pretty much guarantee that unless my reading tastes drastically change I'll always count Kasie West as an auto-buy author.
3. Mary E Pearson - I still have Mary E Pearson's earliest releases to read, but since the Remnant Chronicles I at least want to check out everything else she decides to do.
4. Sarah J Maas - Confession: I don't actually own any of her books although I've read all but Kingdom of Ash (cutting my eyes at you Holly). I've just borrowed them all from Holly. But all of her books are good enough to own, and certainly good enough to make this list. I can see where she might one day venture into territory that I'm not up for, but I'll always look into her books.
5. Amy Harmon - There are quite a few that Amy Harmon has written that I still haven't read, but all of the ones by her that I have read have been really good. I'm skeptical of What the Wind Knows because it is about time travel, and I don't usually enjoy that subject.
6. Katie McGarry - I've read all of Katie McGarry's books and haven't found one that I didn't like. Will definitely continue to check her books out in the future.
7. KA Tucker - Another author that I've read all of her releases. Wait no. I take that back. She has some very early releases that I haven't read even though I own the first one. I need to get around to that one soon.
8. Robin LaFevers - I always hesitate to add authors to lists like this when I've only read a few of their books or only one series because a different series could be vastly different. But I think I can trust her writing to be good.
9. Kristi Ann Hunter - Christian Historical Fiction - You can't go wrong. Well...maybe you could, but Kristi Ann Hunter has never led me astray. Probably an actual auto-buy author for me.
10. Jenn Bennett - Ok so Jenn Bennett is a tricky one. I've loved everything I've read from her, and I certainly want to read more of her books. However, I do know that she can trickle into subject matter that I'm not a fan of, and one of her books hasn't gotten the best reviews. So...we'll see.

Which authors are on your auto-buy List? Let me know!

Can't Wait for A Pursuit of Home

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

A Pursuit of Home (Haven Manor, # 3)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: November 5th 2019 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--When she learns the family she thought dead might be alive and in danger, Jess Beuchene knows her secrets can only stay buried for so long. Desperation brings her to Derek Thornbury, an expert in history and artifacts, to help her decipher the clues in an old family diary. Will their search to uncover the truth of the past lead to a future together?

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

A Return of Devotion - Review

A Return of Devotion (Haven Manor, # 2)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: February 5th 2019 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Daphne Blakemoor was perfectly happy living in her own secluded world for twelve years. She had everything she needed—loved ones, a true home, and time to indulge her imagination. But when ownership of the estate where she works as a housekeeper passes on, and the new marquis has an undeniable connection to her past, everything she's come to rely upon is threatened.

William, Marquis of Chemsford's main goal in life is to be the exact opposite of his father. Starting a new life in the peace and quiet of the country sounds perfect until his housekeeper turns his life upside down.

They've spent their lives hiding from the past. Can they find the courage to face their deepest wounds and, perhaps, find a new path for the future together?

Daphne was such a relatable and likeable character in A Defense of Honor. I have only over the last year or two increased the amount of historical fiction that I've been reading, and I haven't yet read a book about a girl who got pregnant outside of marriage. One of the things I love about this particular time period is that the culture does so much to avoid even the appearance of men and women having inappropriate relationships outside of marriage. Yet, come on, this is life and human beings have always made mistakes. And so having sex and getting pregnant outside of marriage isn't only a problem of today's time. And I think we can all relate to having made a mistake that has quite heavy consequences for us.

Understandably so, Daphne's experiences have caused her to be quite fearful of life. She was always a shy girl who struggled with society and the social functions of the time period. Having Benedict allowed her to retreat from society. Even though the description indicates that Daphne has held the position of housekeeper for Haven Manor for quite some time, she's not really been acting in that position. The house has now changed hands and the new owner wants to make the house his main home, and so Daphne now has to take on the roll in an official capacity.

William's father has recently passed, and he's inherited the marquis title--as well as all of his father's property. He arrives at Haven Manor (unaware of the house's name) and is completely thrown off by his housekeeper. She's unlike any housekeeper he's ever had, and she can't seem to remember that she's not his social equal. When he meets Benedict, William can't move on without getting the entire story from Daphne.

I enjoyed A Return of Devotion. I read it quickly and didn't really want to put it down when I needed to. Yet I'm finding it hard to describe how I felt about the book and the story. I enjoyed it, but something held me back from loving it. Maybe it was Daphne's habit of daydreaming or dwelling on fantasy. Maybe it was the extremely slow build of the relationship between Daphne and William. I can't find anything really negative to say about it. It was good, but something was just missing for me to love it entirely. I can't wait to read Jess's story though--I can't believe I didn't connect her to A Noble Masquerade. And I do love how this series has taken a topic that isn't expected from this time period as the overall theme for the series. A Return of Devotion gets 3.5 Stars. Have you read A Return of Devotion? What did you think? Let me know!

Can't Wait for A Return of Devotion

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

A Return of Devotion (Haven Manor, # 2)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: February 5th 2019 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Daphne Blakemoor was perfectly happy living in her own secluded world for twelve years. She had everything she needed—loved ones, a true home, and time to indulge her imagination. But when ownership of the estate where she works as a housekeeper passes on, and the new marquis has an undeniable connection to her past, everything she's come to rely upon is threatened.

William, Marquis of Chemsford's main goal in life is to be the exact opposite of his father. Starting a new life in the peace and quiet of the country sounds perfect until his housekeeper turns his life upside down.

They've spent their lives hiding from the past. Can they find the courage to face their deepest wounds and, perhaps, find a new path for the future together?

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

A Defense of Honor - Review

A Defense of Honor (Haven Manor, # 1)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: June 5th 2018 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Regency

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Forced to run for her life, Kit FitzGilbert finds herself in the very place she swore never to return to--a London ballroom. There she encounters Lord Graham Wharton, who believes Kit holds the key to a mystery he's trying to solve. As much as she wishes that she could tell him everything, she can't reveal the truth without endangering those she loves.

I really enjoyed Kristi Ann Hunter's Hawthorne House series. I knew I wanted to read A Defense of Honor as soon as I found out about it. One of the things I loved about the Hawthorne House series is that Kristi Ann Hunter takes what I'm used to expecting from this time period and genre and throws in aspects that aren't typical. And she does exactly that with A Defense of Honor. To be truthful, I'm not sure how much I can say about this book without spoilers.

Graham is bored. He's set to be Earl after his father dies, but his dad is in quite good health. He's tired of the same old, same old found in the typical London ballroom and drawing room. A chance meeting introduces him to Kit. She isn't anything he's used to, but he doesn't have time to get to know her there. As fortune would have it, Graham goes on a mission with his friend Oliver in a hunt to find his missing sister. Graham stumbles upon Kit and what else he finds changes his life and his perspective forever.

Kit is quite jaded and angry. She was mistreated and wrongly accused of something. However her actions caused a friend to be put in a tricky situation. This resulted in her being outcast from society. However, she and her friends have turned their privacy into a mission to help others. Graham is a complication that could expose the group and secrecy is of the upmost importance for the girls to keep helping others.

I really liked Graham and Kit. Both had things to work through before they were ready to begin a relationship. Trust has to be built and rebuilt. Pasts have to be overcome. A future has to have possibilities.

Favorite quotes:

-"You are trusting me more than you trust God.”

-“The most precious gems are forged from pressure. God brings beauty from adversity, when you let Him.”

A Defense of Honor was everything I've come to expect of Kristi Ann Hunter. A relationship I can root for. A twist on what I expect from this time period. And a great moral and message without feeling preached at. A Defense of Honor gets 4 Stars. Have you read A Defense of Honor? What did you think? Let me know.

Can't Wait for A Defense of Honor

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

A Defense of Honor (Haven Manor, # 1)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: June 5th 2018 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Regency

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Forced to run for her life, Kit FitzGilbert finds herself in the very place she swore never to return to--a London ballroom. There she encounters Lord Graham Wharton, who believes Kit holds the key to a mystery he's trying to solve. As much as she wishes that she could tell him everything, she can't reveal the truth without endangering those she loves.

What are you guys waiting on this week? Let me know!

An Elegant Facade - Review

An Elegant Facade (Hawthorne House, # 2)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Publication: July 5th 2016 by Bethany House Publishers

352 pages

Genre: Christian, Historical Fiction, Regency

Source: Personal Kindle Library

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Lady Georgina Hawthorne has worked tirelessly to seal her place as the Incomparable for her debut season. At her first London ball, she hopes to snag the attention of an earl.

With money and business connections, but without impeccable bloodlines, Colin McCrae is invited everywhere but accepted nowhere. When he first encounters the fashionable Lady Georgina, he's irritated by his attraction to a woman who concerns herself only with status and appearance.

What Colin doesn't know is that Georgina's desperate social aspirations are driven by the shameful secret she harbors. Association with Colin McCrae is not part of Georgina's plan, but as their paths continue to cross, they both must decide if the realization of their dreams is worth the sacrifices they must make.

I've read this series all out of order. I read An Uncommon Courtship (book 3) first, then A Noble Masquerade (book 1), then A Lady of Esteem (novella 0.5), and now An Elegant Facade (book 2). Reading these out of order hasn't bothered me. I'd obviously recommend reading them in order, but sometimes you just do what you have to do. The characters are connected and obviously if you read book 3 first then you can figure out how books 1 and 2 ended, but that didn't prevent me from enjoying the journey of any of these books.

Prior to reading An Elegant Facade, I've read a series of fantasy books with a few contemporary ones mixed in here or there. The book I read immediately before this was almost 700 pages and while really enjoyable it was mentally draining. I picked this book up for the contrast in genres from the previous books I've read. And it perfectly fit the bill for what I needed at the time.

I didn't love Georgina when I read A Noble Masquerade. She seemed so spoiled and bratty. We learn that there's much more to the story and appearances in An Elegant Facade than meets the eye. Georgina has a secret that she's been keeping from her family and she feels that marrying someone who's pride and reputation will keep her own in tact should her secret come to life. This means her search for a husband is entirely void of any emotional connection she might feel. Instead she's looking at titles and popularity as the sole criteria for her selection. This makes her a bit cold and calculating to everyone around her.

Colin is a businessman from Scotland. While at home he would be considered a catch, in London Colin is merely a member on the fringes of society tolerated because of his ability to make a lot of money for many of the families and men of high standing. As such, Colin is extremely observant and used to remaining mostly unnoticed. He's utterly put off by Georgina's obvious social aspirations, but he keeps finding himself crossing paths with her. But as he's observant, he eventually discovers Georgina's secret, and he becomes an ally of sorts.

I loved the transition from irritation and annoyance between these two to reluctant allies while noticing things about each other that no one else seemed to pick up on to finally realizing that feelings had changed from friendship to admiration to more. The slow build between these two made them easy to love. Their banter was great, and I loved that Colin always seemed to have inside information that Georgina didn't have access to. It made him always one step ahead of her and that drove her crazy as she tried to orchestrate every aspect of her life. I did wonder early on how in the world these two would end up together based off their early thoughts and opinions of each other. So for Kristi Ann Hunter to pull that off was impressive.

This is a Christian book so there is mention of God as well as a moral throughout the book with the heaviest focus of this within the last 20-30%. I don't feel as though a non-Christian or someone who doesn't enjoy this genre should be put off by this because the book didn't come off as preaching to the reader to me. It truly felt genuine to the story as Georgina herself struggles with her relationship with and understanding of God.

Favorite quotes:

-"Have no fear, little angel, I am an official guest. Though I believe I am supposed to be dancing with the wallflowers, not the Diamonds."

-It would take a beautiful woman, both inside and out, to entice him to marry. He refused to allow his marriage to be nothing more than another business transaction.

-"Trust God to give you what you need when you need it. If you get it too early, you might misplace it."

-"A bit of advice? You need to learn to evaluate the whole game, not just the cards in front of you."

-"You look good in green." Daft man. "Perhaps you should consider spectacles. I'm wearing white." "Ah, yes, but the jealousy has livened your complexion." The absolute gall of the man infuriated her. "Why would I be jealous?" "Because you've lost." Georgina looked at the table. Each couple had two stacks of cards in front of them. "We appear evenly matched at the moment." "Then you aren't looking closely."

I almost forgot to mention that An Elegant Facade does pick up before the events of A Noble Masquerade are finished. I found this aspect interesting as it added another layer of depth to the story I enjoyed in the prior book. But as Kristi Ann Hunter pointed out in her Author's Note at the beginning of the book, Georgina's story begins during the same events as Miranda's. As the Season begins both girls have different parts to play. It wasn't just a repeat of Georgina's intentions toward Ryland, but also where her first several encounters with Colin occur. That makes it essential to her overall story. So if you've read book 1 and find yourself feeling like the beginning of this book is just a repeat, please press on.

An Elegant Facade was just the book I needed to follow up a heavy and lengthy fantasy series. The historical fiction genre and the mix of the Christian aspects were refreshing. I loved the slow build between Georgina and Colin. I especially loved Colin in general. His upstanding character despite not being at the height of social standing. His moral compass. His desire to protect and even rescue Georgina from her secret and herself. His friendship with Ryland and even Trent and Griffith. I appreciated Georgina's unique struggles. That's one thing I've appreciated in general about Kristi Ann Hunter's take on this time period--there's always some aspect that I just don't expect (Ryland's job in book 1 and Georgina's secret here). An Elegant Facade gets 4 Stars. And one of the best recommendations that I feel like I can give is that I actually see myself re-reading this series at some point in the future. Have you read An Elegant Facade? What did you think? Let me know!

An Inconvenient Beauty - Review

An Inconvenient Beauty (Hawthorne House, # 4)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Published: September 5th 2017 by Bethany House Publishers

384 pages

Genre: Christian, Historical Fiction

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Award-Winning Regency Romance Author on the Rise

Griffith, Duke of Riverton, likes order, logic, and control, and he naturally applies this rational approach to his search for a bride. He's certain Miss Frederica St. Claire is the perfect wife for him, but while Frederica is strangely elusive, he can't seem to stop running into her stunningly beautiful cousin, Miss Isabella Breckenridge.

Isabella should be enjoying her society debut, but with her family in difficult circumstances, her uncle will only help them if she'll use her beauty to assist him in his political aims. Already uncomfortable with this agreement, the more she comes to know Griffith, the more she wishes to be free of her unfortunate obligation.

Will Griffith and Isabella be able to set aside their pride and face their fears in time to find their own happily-ever-after?

You guys, I've been in a huge book slump. I only read two books last month total. One was a re-read and one wasn't fiction. However, I knew the release date was coming up for An Inconvenient Beauty, and I just had this feeling that this would be a perfect read to help me out of my slump. I ended up seeing this on NetGalley for review, but somehow I missed when it was initially uploaded so I was concerned that I might have missed my opportunity to request it. I was ultimately approved to read and review An Inconvenient Beauty and I started it immediately. And just like I suspected, I had no problems blowing through it.

I was excited to read Griffith's story as he's been a central figure in the previous books in the series. Griffith has been everyone's rock. He's the one everyone else comes to for advice. Normally I would have been kind of put off by Griffith's idea that he could approach finding a wife logically. His family has a tradition of marrying for love despite the customs of the time to marry for practicality. But Griffith thinks he can do both. Considering he watched Trent (his younger brother) go from resenting his own marriage and wife to being deeply in love in An Uncommon Courtship (which was actually the first book in this series that I read), it kind of made sense that he would think that much of his ability to love his future wife would be a conscious decision.

Griffith's in kind of a unique situation. Because he's a duke, most everyone he meets wants something from him. Men want him on their side for political maneuvers and favors. Mothers want to marry him off to their daughters. The daughters also want to secure his hand. And even though he loves his family immensely, he's trying to keep them from meddling and giving him a hard time through the process of finding a wife. This makes trusting others and their motivations a bit difficult. And Griffith takes his responsibilities as Duke of Riverton very seriously. To make this worse, Griffith's made a habit of not dancing at social events except with his family so to dance with anyone outside of his mother and sisters would be equivalent to announcing his engagement or at the very least announcing his intention to court a particular lady. So Griffith attempts to go about his courting in other ways.

I was a little confused in the beginning about what was going on with Isabella. What you need to know is that she's half Scottish. Her mother was English aristocracy but cut all ties when she fell in love with a Scottish sheep farmer. Unfortunately an accident has left her father unable to take care of the farm. Isabella's uncle sees an opportunity to take advantage of her beauty and her family's poor financial situation to exploit her for his purposes. Isabella is to attract as many suitors as possible in order to help her uncle promote his political agenda. Yet, the Duke of Riverton is the one person she's not supposed to attract as his attentions to her would scare away too many other suitors.

Since Griffith has set his eyes upon Isabella's cousin, Fredericka, and Isabella has been told not to encourage the duke, these two have an opportunity to get to know each other without actually wanting anything from the other. Griffith's decision to court Freddie throws Isabella and Griffith into each other's company frequently. Especially when Freddie seems to keep escaping Griffith's attempts.

Now that I've told you too much of the story itself...I really enjoyed this one. I'm not sure I can say that this was my favorite in the series, but it wasn't my least favorite either. I was hooked into seeing if these two could figure out how they really feel for each other and work around the obstacles in their path. There can often be conflicts that are so simple to overcome yet the couple splits over something simple. This wasn't really the case. Things weren't exactly simple and where in other books I get frustrated because the couple just won't communicate with each other, in An Inconvenient Beauty I could respect Isabella for not just going to Griffith to solve all of her problems.

Favorite quotes:

-Amazing how one decision could drive a person so far from where they thought they'd never stray.

-Sometimes truth hurt. And Isabella was glad Freddie was willing to tell her the truth even as she resented the uttering of it.

An Inconvenient Beauty was exactly what I needed. The Christian aspects in the background as well as the culture of the time period kept me from being annoyed with the things that have been bothering me with modern day literature. Both of those things also ensured the story would be clear of language and sex scenes. And Kristi Ann Hunter has proven to pull me in and hook me into the story and characters. An Inconvenient Beauty was no different. I also appreciated and enjoyed the historical aspects that were used in this story to actually further the plot and not just there for decoration. An Inconvenient Beauty gets 4 Stars. Have you read An Inconvenient Beauty? What did you think? Let me know!

Can't Wait for An Inconvenient Beauty

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

An Inconvenient Beauty (Hawthorne House, # 4)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Expected Publication: September 5th 2017 by Bethany House Publishers

384 pages

Genre: Christian, Historical Fiction

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Award-Winning Regency Romance Author on the Rise

Griffith, Duke of Riverton, likes order, logic, and control, and he naturally applies this rational approach to his search for a bride. He's certain Miss Frederica St. Claire is the perfect wife for him, but while Frederica is strangely elusive, he can't seem to stop running into her stunningly beautiful cousin, Miss Isabella Breckenridge.

Isabella should be enjoying her society debut, but with her family in difficult circumstances, her uncle will only help them if she'll use her beauty to assist him in his political aims. Already uncomfortable with this agreement, the more she comes to know Griffith, the more she wishes to be free of her unfortunate obligation.

Will Griffith and Isabella be able to set aside their pride and face their fears in time to find their own happily-ever-after?

I've really enjoyed this series and can't wait to get my hands on Griffith's story. What can't you wait for this week? Let me know!

A Lady of Esteem - Review

A Lady of Esteem (Hawthorne House, # 0.5)

By: Kristi Ann Hunter

Published: July 7th 2015 by Bethany House Publishers

159 pages

Genre: Adult, Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Regency

Source: Personal Kindle Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Miss Amelia Stalwood may live in London at her absent guardian's townhouse, but she's never actually met any nobility, and instead of aristocrats, her closest friends are servants. Quite by happenstance, she's introduced to the Hawthorne family and their close family friend, Anthony, the reformed marquis of Raeburn. They welcome her into their world, but just as she's beginning to gain some confidence and even suspect she may have caught Anthony's eye, she's blindsided by an unexpected twist in her situation accompanied by nasty rumors. Will she lose her reputation when the world that has only just accepted her turns its back on her, or will she rest in the support of the friends who've become like family and the man who's shared his faith and captured her heart?

A Lady of Esteem is an e-only novella that gives an exciting introduction to Kristi Ann Hunter's new Regency romance series about the aristocratic Hawthorne family! Includes an extended excerpt of Kristi's debut full-length novel, A Noble Masquerade.

I have to admit that An Uncommon Courtship piqued my interest in reading A Lady of Esteem more than A Noble Masquerade even though Amelia and Anthony only appear briefly in An Uncommon Courtship despite both being mentioned quite frequently. But that's because in An Uncommon Courtship Trent owns the house that Amelia grew up living in. Also because Adelaide's sister is Helena who has a part in A Lady of Esteem. Regardless, I was excited for the free novella giving Amelia and Anthony's story.

Though we're not specifically told the details of the sins of Anthony's past, we do know that he had issues with alcohol and women. He escaped to the country where he spent a considerable amount of time with the Hawthorne family--specifically Griffith. In doing so, he's turned his life over to God and is trying to settle down by finding a wife. And that leads him to return to London.

Amelia is a gentleman's daughter. However, both of her parents have passed. As well as her grandmother. And it seems that she's just gotten passed from one distant relative to the next. The last of which has left her in a house in London where she's come to make a family of sorts out of the household servants. But it isn't just the servants of her own house that she's familiar, but also most of those that she's met and come in contact with.

Amelia and Anthony meet in a couple of encounters that thoroughly embarrass her, but thoroughly intrigue him. And the two begin an unconventional courtship--which seems to be a bit of a theme for this series. Amelia is as pure and sweet as they come. Even though she's not been thoroughly educated in the Bible, it's principles seem to come naturally to her. But Anthony struggles with the man he's been and doesn't want to drag Amelia down with him.

I appreciated the religious themes to A Lady of Esteem perhaps the most out of the three books in this series that I've read. Forgiveness and redemption is something most can relate to.

Favorite quotes:

-"Even if you succeed in placing these ballrooms beyond my reach, you will never ruin my life. I do not give you that power."

-How could anyone hear what anyone else was saying? But then again, maybe they didn't care. It seemed more important to be talking than to be heard.

-How could a loving God bring him to the brink of happiness and then snatch it all away? The answer materialized, as if the Lord himself had spoken in Anthony's ear. I didn't take it away. You did.

A Lady of Esteem was short, quick, and thoroughly enjoyable. I liked the characters, the story, the message. A Lady of Esteem gets 3.5 Stars. Have you read A Lady of Esteem? What did you think? Let me know!