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Recommend this book:
I, Magdalena
M P Sherman
2024 Bronze Medal
354 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
I, Magdalena is a work of fiction in the historical, women’s fiction and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to some scenes of moderate sex and violence and was penned by author M P Sherman. This powerful and captivating novel tells the inspiring story of a strong-minded and fiercely independent woman navigating an oppressive patriarchy during Biblical times. Magdalena's journey unfolds against a backdrop of limited opportunities for girls, but her mother's unwavering support and creative spirit provide solace and hope. This book serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the transformative power of resilience.
Author M P Sherman skillfully portrays the struggles and hardships Magdalena faces on her path to physical and spiritual awakening. Through her experiences, the author sheds light on the multifaceted nature of every life, emphasizing the futility and lack of merit in judging others. Magdalena's resilience and determination become beacons of inspiration, reminding readers of the strength and potential within each individual. The narrative also highlights the broader societal issues of structural imbalances and their impact on every member. Sherman adeptly weaves these themes into the story, prompting readers to reflect on the complexities of social dynamics and the need for change. Sherman has crafted a beautifully penned novel that immerses readers in the rich tapestry of Magdalena's life with evocative and compelling prose that draws readers into the emotions and experiences of the protagonist. Overall, I, Magdalena is a must-read for those seeking a captivating tale that challenges societal norms and encourages self-discovery.
I, Magdalena is a work of fiction in the historical, women’s fiction and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to some scenes of moderate sex and violence and was penned by author M P Sherman. This powerful and captivating novel tells the inspiring story of a strong-minded and fiercely independent woman navigating an oppressive patriarchy during Biblical times. Magdalena's journey unfolds against a backdrop of limited opportunities for girls, but her mother's unwavering support and creative spirit provide solace and hope. This book serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the transformative power of resilience.
Author M P Sherman skillfully portrays the struggles and hardships Magdalena faces on her path to physical and spiritual awakening. Through her experiences, the author sheds light on the multifaceted nature of every life, emphasizing the futility and lack of merit in judging others. Magdalena's resilience and determination become beacons of inspiration, reminding readers of the strength and potential within each individual. The narrative also highlights the broader societal issues of structural imbalances and their impact on every member. Sherman adeptly weaves these themes into the story, prompting readers to reflect on the complexities of social dynamics and the need for change. Sherman has crafted a beautifully penned novel that immerses readers in the rich tapestry of Magdalena's life with evocative and compelling prose that draws readers into the emotions and experiences of the protagonist. Overall, I, Magdalena is a must-read for those seeking a captivating tale that challenges societal norms and encourages self-discovery.
Recommend this book:
The Letter
Victorian Virtues Book 1
Edwina Kiernan
2024 Silver Medal
340 Pages
Check current price
Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite
In 1848, Dr. David Carbury is suspected of murder because the chloroform he used on a patient appears to be the reason behind his sudden death. Instead of letting the court decide his fate in London, David escapes to Lindenfell and assumes his cousin's identity while staying with his aunt whom he hadn't seen in a long time. David introduces himself as John to his aunt and the beautiful young woman staying with her—Grace Stratton. Though he finds himself falling for Grace, he fears the judgment he will receive once his identity is exposed. How long does David have before his secrets unravel? Edwina Kiernan's The Letter captivates readers with a historical tale about two individuals whose love for each other is marred by an outrageous act of deceit and a harsh, life-threatening accusation.
Edwina Kiernan's story alternates between two viewpoints, depicting David's and Grace's perspectives at intervals as they get to know each other and deal with their personal issues. It was exciting to learn what the characters didn't know about each other, like their undeclared feelings, by following the well-executed shifts in viewpoints. I loved the compelling protagonists. Both appear to be kind and respectful despite their struggles with deceit, forgiveness, and the law. Also, the narrative incorporates biblical messages that encourage readers to trust God in all situations. Essentially, The Letter is filled with brilliant, reader-friendly features: moderate pacing, profound lessons, compelling developments, likable characters, and more. Fans of historical fiction and suspenseful love stories are in for a treat! It's the type of book you read with your phone on Do Not Disturb because it is just that compelling!
In 1848, Dr. David Carbury is suspected of murder because the chloroform he used on a patient appears to be the reason behind his sudden death. Instead of letting the court decide his fate in London, David escapes to Lindenfell and assumes his cousin's identity while staying with his aunt whom he hadn't seen in a long time. David introduces himself as John to his aunt and the beautiful young woman staying with her—Grace Stratton. Though he finds himself falling for Grace, he fears the judgment he will receive once his identity is exposed. How long does David have before his secrets unravel? Edwina Kiernan's The Letter captivates readers with a historical tale about two individuals whose love for each other is marred by an outrageous act of deceit and a harsh, life-threatening accusation.
Edwina Kiernan's story alternates between two viewpoints, depicting David's and Grace's perspectives at intervals as they get to know each other and deal with their personal issues. It was exciting to learn what the characters didn't know about each other, like their undeclared feelings, by following the well-executed shifts in viewpoints. I loved the compelling protagonists. Both appear to be kind and respectful despite their struggles with deceit, forgiveness, and the law. Also, the narrative incorporates biblical messages that encourage readers to trust God in all situations. Essentially, The Letter is filled with brilliant, reader-friendly features: moderate pacing, profound lessons, compelling developments, likable characters, and more. Fans of historical fiction and suspenseful love stories are in for a treat! It's the type of book you read with your phone on Do Not Disturb because it is just that compelling!
Recommend this book:
Love on Target
Pink Pistol Sisterhood Series Book 2
Shanna Hatfield
2024 Gold Medal
206 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
In Love on Target, author Shanna Hatfield tells a heartwarming tale set against the rugged backdrop of Oregon’s mining country in the late 19th century. Rena Burke, the resilient and determined protagonist, embarks on a journey from Texas with little more than her father's pistol and a steadfast mule for company. Determined to forge a new life, Rena takes on a daring job working with explosives at a local mine while nurturing dreams inspired by her idol, Annie Oakley, and quietly yearning for companionship. Josh Gatlin is a saddlemaker whose world revolves around his beloved daughter, Gabi. Devoted to providing his child with a stable and loving environment, Josh finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Rena, a woman who challenges his preconceptions of a suitable wife and mother. Clad in trousers and fiercely independent, Rena stands in stark contrast to Josh's ideals, yet her courage and spirit begin to undo the walls around his heart.
It's refreshing to see a resurgence of Western novels, and Shanna Hatfield masters the genre. Love on Target is well-paced, with a perfect “save the cat” moment that sets up Rena as a likable character that readers care about. Hatfield skillfully weaves together themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the transformative power of love. The narrative blends tender moments with the rugged realities of frontier life, creating a compelling read. Fans of Western romance will find much to love in this novel—characters to root for, a setting that comes alive, and a love story that defies conventions. It's a testament to the author's ability to craft an engaging narrative that transports readers to another time and place, leaving them eagerly awaiting her next literary journey. Hopefully, the wait won’t be too long.
In Love on Target, author Shanna Hatfield tells a heartwarming tale set against the rugged backdrop of Oregon’s mining country in the late 19th century. Rena Burke, the resilient and determined protagonist, embarks on a journey from Texas with little more than her father's pistol and a steadfast mule for company. Determined to forge a new life, Rena takes on a daring job working with explosives at a local mine while nurturing dreams inspired by her idol, Annie Oakley, and quietly yearning for companionship. Josh Gatlin is a saddlemaker whose world revolves around his beloved daughter, Gabi. Devoted to providing his child with a stable and loving environment, Josh finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Rena, a woman who challenges his preconceptions of a suitable wife and mother. Clad in trousers and fiercely independent, Rena stands in stark contrast to Josh's ideals, yet her courage and spirit begin to undo the walls around his heart.
It's refreshing to see a resurgence of Western novels, and Shanna Hatfield masters the genre. Love on Target is well-paced, with a perfect “save the cat” moment that sets up Rena as a likable character that readers care about. Hatfield skillfully weaves together themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the transformative power of love. The narrative blends tender moments with the rugged realities of frontier life, creating a compelling read. Fans of Western romance will find much to love in this novel—characters to root for, a setting that comes alive, and a love story that defies conventions. It's a testament to the author's ability to craft an engaging narrative that transports readers to another time and place, leaving them eagerly awaiting her next literary journey. Hopefully, the wait won’t be too long.
Recommend this book:
The Rock at the Bottom
Lorna & Tristan Series Book 3
Cynthia Hilston
2023 Finalist
302 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
It is said that to err is human and to forgive is divine, and how this might play out is a foundational element of the Christian romance novel The Rock at the Bottom by Cynthia Hilston. But forgiveness of who? Your biological father? Yourself? Stephen starts his life under a cloud of hatred, his father's contempt for him further complicated by a penchant for drinking. Stephen tries his best to craft a place for himself in an imagination that thrives against a backdrop of abuse. He is a wordsmith, a writer, and proving his worth is a powerful driver. Once old enough to leave home, Stephen moves out with his childhood friend and marries the tenacious Anna “Julie”. Stephen's success and his life with Julie, along with those of two others, are abruptly interrupted when Stephen dredges up his father's own issues from within himself. Stephen is haunted by his mistakes but whether or not he can overcome his own worst enemy, himself, will determine the rest of his life, both lived and eternal.
I love a good redemption story and my goodness author Cynthia Hilston is able to serve it up in The Rock at the Bottom. The analogy of the title shows up unexpectedly as Stephen's story progresses, and the nuance of Hilston having one word or phrase narrated and a reader discovering it is the sign of a gifted writer. She does this a few times and it is fantastic. I admit that I did not read books one or two in the Lorna and Tristan series, Lorna Versus Laura and Rocks and Flowers in a Box, but it didn't impact the readability of book three. That said, I was clueless about how the story of a guy named Stephen tied into a series with a different name, but Hilston unveils the connection in a beautiful, metaphysical reveal. Readers should be warned that Stephen goes through a dark period where he is deeply troubled and, frankly, becomes a character so flawed that he morphs into one that is genuinely unlikeable. This is the moment we start to witness God's grace and mercy and, yet again, where Hilston proves the divinity of forgiveness that comes. I'm human and struggled with Stephen...but God is patient and loving, and readers who stay the course will see how amazing this can be, no matter how far we fall.
It is said that to err is human and to forgive is divine, and how this might play out is a foundational element of the Christian romance novel The Rock at the Bottom by Cynthia Hilston. But forgiveness of who? Your biological father? Yourself? Stephen starts his life under a cloud of hatred, his father's contempt for him further complicated by a penchant for drinking. Stephen tries his best to craft a place for himself in an imagination that thrives against a backdrop of abuse. He is a wordsmith, a writer, and proving his worth is a powerful driver. Once old enough to leave home, Stephen moves out with his childhood friend and marries the tenacious Anna “Julie”. Stephen's success and his life with Julie, along with those of two others, are abruptly interrupted when Stephen dredges up his father's own issues from within himself. Stephen is haunted by his mistakes but whether or not he can overcome his own worst enemy, himself, will determine the rest of his life, both lived and eternal.
I love a good redemption story and my goodness author Cynthia Hilston is able to serve it up in The Rock at the Bottom. The analogy of the title shows up unexpectedly as Stephen's story progresses, and the nuance of Hilston having one word or phrase narrated and a reader discovering it is the sign of a gifted writer. She does this a few times and it is fantastic. I admit that I did not read books one or two in the Lorna and Tristan series, Lorna Versus Laura and Rocks and Flowers in a Box, but it didn't impact the readability of book three. That said, I was clueless about how the story of a guy named Stephen tied into a series with a different name, but Hilston unveils the connection in a beautiful, metaphysical reveal. Readers should be warned that Stephen goes through a dark period where he is deeply troubled and, frankly, becomes a character so flawed that he morphs into one that is genuinely unlikeable. This is the moment we start to witness God's grace and mercy and, yet again, where Hilston proves the divinity of forgiveness that comes. I'm human and struggled with Stephen...but God is patient and loving, and readers who stay the course will see how amazing this can be, no matter how far we fall.
Recommend this book:
The Flowers of Penruddock
A Romance Collection
Ronnda Eileen Henry
2023 Honorable Mention
536 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite
The Flowers of Penruddock: A Romance Collection from Ronnda Eileen Henry is a collection of seven substantial novellas that all focus on the mythical land of Penruddock, which Henry has created and expanded on over time. The novellas all take place over different periods of Penruddock’s history; a history, it seems, that is measured by before and after the rule of Good King Adelard. King Adelard was the last king to rule over a unified and united Penruddock. Upon his death, the island nation was divided up into six kingdoms, each to be ruled by one of his six sons. The story of Good King Adelard and what led to his decision to split his kingdom is told in the fourth novella, Hyacinth: Love Royal and True, and is in itself fascinating. Each of the seven novellas is named after the lead female character in the story, also being the name of a flower. So, we have Poppy, Rose, Violet, Hyacinth and more. As a bonus, at the end is a story written by the author titled Cousins One and All, a Jane Austen fan fiction story.
I loved this wonderful collection of simple love stories. There is nothing pretentious about Ronnda Eileen Henry’s writing and in The Flowers of Penruddock: A Romance Collection, she gives us simple, sweet and uplifting love stories about real characters. I particularly liked that age, occupation and social status had no bearing in the characters’ choices of who they fell in love with. Many of the stories are centred around nobility and royalty, where “love matches” are often the last consideration when arranging a marriage. More important are improving one’s status or adding a title to one’s family name. Henry’s characters rise above these material issues and true love is found, pursued and defended stoutly. Because all the stories revolve around the land of Penruddock, albeit at different times in history, I always felt an affinity with the location of each new story. This is a long collection of stories, but one that can be delved into and read at one’s leisure. Each story stands alone and I can highly recommend this to anyone who loves, good, clean, but exciting romantic adventure. My favourite stories? Marigold: Love in Two Acts, closely followed by Peony: Forged in Love, but truth be told, I enjoyed them all immensely.
The Flowers of Penruddock: A Romance Collection from Ronnda Eileen Henry is a collection of seven substantial novellas that all focus on the mythical land of Penruddock, which Henry has created and expanded on over time. The novellas all take place over different periods of Penruddock’s history; a history, it seems, that is measured by before and after the rule of Good King Adelard. King Adelard was the last king to rule over a unified and united Penruddock. Upon his death, the island nation was divided up into six kingdoms, each to be ruled by one of his six sons. The story of Good King Adelard and what led to his decision to split his kingdom is told in the fourth novella, Hyacinth: Love Royal and True, and is in itself fascinating. Each of the seven novellas is named after the lead female character in the story, also being the name of a flower. So, we have Poppy, Rose, Violet, Hyacinth and more. As a bonus, at the end is a story written by the author titled Cousins One and All, a Jane Austen fan fiction story.
I loved this wonderful collection of simple love stories. There is nothing pretentious about Ronnda Eileen Henry’s writing and in The Flowers of Penruddock: A Romance Collection, she gives us simple, sweet and uplifting love stories about real characters. I particularly liked that age, occupation and social status had no bearing in the characters’ choices of who they fell in love with. Many of the stories are centred around nobility and royalty, where “love matches” are often the last consideration when arranging a marriage. More important are improving one’s status or adding a title to one’s family name. Henry’s characters rise above these material issues and true love is found, pursued and defended stoutly. Because all the stories revolve around the land of Penruddock, albeit at different times in history, I always felt an affinity with the location of each new story. This is a long collection of stories, but one that can be delved into and read at one’s leisure. Each story stands alone and I can highly recommend this to anyone who loves, good, clean, but exciting romantic adventure. My favourite stories? Marigold: Love in Two Acts, closely followed by Peony: Forged in Love, but truth be told, I enjoyed them all immensely.
Recommend this book:
Beryl's Blessing
Gems of Grace Book 3
Edwina Kiernan
2023 Bronze Medal
274 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite
A captivating historical story that inspires faith and hope, Beryl's Blessing is the third installment in the Gems of Grace series by Edwina Kiernan. It chronicles the story of a man burdened by guilt and a woman who struggles with grief and low self-worth. Five years ago, a terrible accident turned Beryl Haywood’s life upside down and left her crippled. The accident had also taken her kind and loving governess, Miss Amelia Jenkins, who had encouraged Beryl’s faith and wisdom. After the devastating accident, Beryl is sent to Bath to live with her wealthy aunt. Painful memories torment Frederick Sinclair after coming back from the war in France. Despite fighting on the battlefront, he has returned unharmed unlike many in his regiment. Through an arranged marriage, Frederick and Beryl start life together but the memories of their pasts threaten to destroy their union.
Beryl's Blessing is a hopeful story of love, forgiveness, and healing. The main characters are beautifully crafted with relatable hopes and struggles that many will find familiar. I was inspired by Beryl’s faith and found her story moving. Practical lessons about wisdom and faith are skillfully woven into the plot. I appreciated that the narrative did not lose its momentum; it is fascinating from the beginning to the end. I enjoyed the twists within the plot and loved its gripping end. Another delightful and engaging Christian work in the Gems of Grace series, Beryl's Blessing by Edwina Kiernan is a wonderful, inspiring story told through the eyes and lives of its lovable main characters. It contains important lessons about hope and healing that fans will love.
A captivating historical story that inspires faith and hope, Beryl's Blessing is the third installment in the Gems of Grace series by Edwina Kiernan. It chronicles the story of a man burdened by guilt and a woman who struggles with grief and low self-worth. Five years ago, a terrible accident turned Beryl Haywood’s life upside down and left her crippled. The accident had also taken her kind and loving governess, Miss Amelia Jenkins, who had encouraged Beryl’s faith and wisdom. After the devastating accident, Beryl is sent to Bath to live with her wealthy aunt. Painful memories torment Frederick Sinclair after coming back from the war in France. Despite fighting on the battlefront, he has returned unharmed unlike many in his regiment. Through an arranged marriage, Frederick and Beryl start life together but the memories of their pasts threaten to destroy their union.
Beryl's Blessing is a hopeful story of love, forgiveness, and healing. The main characters are beautifully crafted with relatable hopes and struggles that many will find familiar. I was inspired by Beryl’s faith and found her story moving. Practical lessons about wisdom and faith are skillfully woven into the plot. I appreciated that the narrative did not lose its momentum; it is fascinating from the beginning to the end. I enjoyed the twists within the plot and loved its gripping end. Another delightful and engaging Christian work in the Gems of Grace series, Beryl's Blessing by Edwina Kiernan is a wonderful, inspiring story told through the eyes and lives of its lovable main characters. It contains important lessons about hope and healing that fans will love.
Recommend this book:
What Might Have Been
Elizabeth Johns
2023 Silver Medal
232 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
What Might Have Been is the fifth installment of A Brethren In Arms series by Elizabeth Johns. After serving years in the British Royal Army fighting against Napolean's forces across the continent, Captain James Frome returns home to Scotland to find his family estate on the brink of collapse. Determined to do his part to help his family, James begins to work on the estate when he comes across Lady Annag McKiernan Calder, a former lover whose father had rejected his proposal for his daughter a decade ago. Now a widow, Anna is finally free of her unwanted marriage, and meeting James reignites their old spark. When Anna's sister Fenella goes missing, James and Anna travel to London to find the scoundrel Major Bexley and bring him to justice. Will James and Anna be able to have a life together?
What Might Have Been is a gem for Regency-era romance lovers. This character-driven tale hooks you with a captivating premise and keeps you engaged until the end. Elizabeth Johns paces the plot nicely, infusing a stellar combination of romance, humor, and a slight tinge of sleuth mystery that helps raise the stakes even higher. But the book's most impressive aspects were the characters and the primary love story between James and Anna. The two main characters play off each other brilliantly, and their interactions are filled with witty banter, humor, and snappy dialogue. I also enjoyed Fenella's storyline, which I sometimes found quite funny. Readers of historical romance novels will have a wonderful time with this book.
What Might Have Been is the fifth installment of A Brethren In Arms series by Elizabeth Johns. After serving years in the British Royal Army fighting against Napolean's forces across the continent, Captain James Frome returns home to Scotland to find his family estate on the brink of collapse. Determined to do his part to help his family, James begins to work on the estate when he comes across Lady Annag McKiernan Calder, a former lover whose father had rejected his proposal for his daughter a decade ago. Now a widow, Anna is finally free of her unwanted marriage, and meeting James reignites their old spark. When Anna's sister Fenella goes missing, James and Anna travel to London to find the scoundrel Major Bexley and bring him to justice. Will James and Anna be able to have a life together?
What Might Have Been is a gem for Regency-era romance lovers. This character-driven tale hooks you with a captivating premise and keeps you engaged until the end. Elizabeth Johns paces the plot nicely, infusing a stellar combination of romance, humor, and a slight tinge of sleuth mystery that helps raise the stakes even higher. But the book's most impressive aspects were the characters and the primary love story between James and Anna. The two main characters play off each other brilliantly, and their interactions are filled with witty banter, humor, and snappy dialogue. I also enjoyed Fenella's storyline, which I sometimes found quite funny. Readers of historical romance novels will have a wonderful time with this book.
Recommend this book:
Chalkboard Preacher from Vinegar Bend
Vinegar Bend Series
Kay Chandler
2023 Gold Medal
284 Pages
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite
Chalkboard Preacher from Vinegar Bend by Kay Chandler takes us through the life of a talented preacher. Reverend Castle Marlowe was a troubled man who had to choose between taking care of his five children and giving up the preaching ministry he loved so much. Having lost his wife not long before, he made an impromptu decision to remarry. Rebekah had always been treated poorly by her father, and that's why deciding to run away from home came easily to her. She had already written to Aunt Nellie, who had come up with a solution for her. Was it going to work? Elsie had always known what she wanted: to own a shop and not have children. But was she content? To find out how these characters interact with the beloved preacher, get yourself a copy of this book.
Chalkboard Preacher from Vinegar Bend by Kay Chandler was so engaging that I could not put it down once I started reading. The twists and turns in the seamlessly flowing plotline kept me on the edge of my seat, yearning for more. Chandler has used suspense to great effect, and the steady pace kept me intrigued and entertained. The characters in the book are also well-developed, and the narration is good. The vivid descriptions of events and emotions will also capture the reader's imagination. The language is easy to understand, making the book accessible to readers. This is a promising series and I can't wait to learn how the drama unfolds with the return of Amelia. I am going straight to look for the follow-up.
Chalkboard Preacher from Vinegar Bend by Kay Chandler takes us through the life of a talented preacher. Reverend Castle Marlowe was a troubled man who had to choose between taking care of his five children and giving up the preaching ministry he loved so much. Having lost his wife not long before, he made an impromptu decision to remarry. Rebekah had always been treated poorly by her father, and that's why deciding to run away from home came easily to her. She had already written to Aunt Nellie, who had come up with a solution for her. Was it going to work? Elsie had always known what she wanted: to own a shop and not have children. But was she content? To find out how these characters interact with the beloved preacher, get yourself a copy of this book.
Chalkboard Preacher from Vinegar Bend by Kay Chandler was so engaging that I could not put it down once I started reading. The twists and turns in the seamlessly flowing plotline kept me on the edge of my seat, yearning for more. Chandler has used suspense to great effect, and the steady pace kept me intrigued and entertained. The characters in the book are also well-developed, and the narration is good. The vivid descriptions of events and emotions will also capture the reader's imagination. The language is easy to understand, making the book accessible to readers. This is a promising series and I can't wait to learn how the drama unfolds with the return of Amelia. I am going straight to look for the follow-up.
Recommend this book:
Daughter of the Boricua
Songs of the Boricua
Olivia Castillo
2022 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Daughter of the Boricua: Songs of the Boricua is the second in the series by Olivia Castillo. When Moctezuma was dying, he cursed Hernan Cortes and his next generation of daughters. Moctezuma had no idea his daughter and her future generations would be caught up in the curse as well. The story follows three generations of women who face the consequences of their own decisions, and sometimes fate was cruel. Liani, Isabella, and Josephine were living different lives, but their goal was similar. A direct descendant of an Aztec princess, Isabella was cursed and had to learn to live with it. Liani was in love with a Spanish officer, but her loyalty to her people was stopping her from chasing after what her heart wanted. Josephine was Isabella’s daughter but her issues were different from her mother's. Josephine was stuck between choosing her career or her love because she could not have both.
I was expecting to read Daughter of the Boricua in a single sitting and call it a day. I was invested from the very first chapter, and as the story progressed, I knew I had to slow down to savor every aspect. It was magical and entertaining beyond my imagination. I loved the mystique and the supernatural elements surrounding our protagonists. The different points of view and periods could be confusing, but they aren’t. Olivia Castillo did justice to each of the women and this allows readers to enjoy their stories. The dilemma each of them faced was relatable, believable, and humbling. The pace was perfect, the chapters flowed flawlessly, and the story was fantastic. There was suspense, romance, a little bit of heartbreak, and a lot of growth. Loved this!
Daughter of the Boricua: Songs of the Boricua is the second in the series by Olivia Castillo. When Moctezuma was dying, he cursed Hernan Cortes and his next generation of daughters. Moctezuma had no idea his daughter and her future generations would be caught up in the curse as well. The story follows three generations of women who face the consequences of their own decisions, and sometimes fate was cruel. Liani, Isabella, and Josephine were living different lives, but their goal was similar. A direct descendant of an Aztec princess, Isabella was cursed and had to learn to live with it. Liani was in love with a Spanish officer, but her loyalty to her people was stopping her from chasing after what her heart wanted. Josephine was Isabella’s daughter but her issues were different from her mother's. Josephine was stuck between choosing her career or her love because she could not have both.
I was expecting to read Daughter of the Boricua in a single sitting and call it a day. I was invested from the very first chapter, and as the story progressed, I knew I had to slow down to savor every aspect. It was magical and entertaining beyond my imagination. I loved the mystique and the supernatural elements surrounding our protagonists. The different points of view and periods could be confusing, but they aren’t. Olivia Castillo did justice to each of the women and this allows readers to enjoy their stories. The dilemma each of them faced was relatable, believable, and humbling. The pace was perfect, the chapters flowed flawlessly, and the story was fantastic. There was suspense, romance, a little bit of heartbreak, and a lot of growth. Loved this!
Recommend this book:
Pearl's Promise
Gems of Grace Book 2
Edwina Kiernan
2022 Honorable Mention
324 Pages
Check current price
Christian - Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Ammaarah Seboa for Readers' Favorite
Pearl’s Promise by Edwina Kiernan is a romantic Regency novel, the second book in the Gems of Grace Series, and focuses on Pearl Acton and Nicholas Dalton. After attending Henry’s wedding to Ruby, Pearl makes her way home, only to discover that her family has lost their fortune and her dowry along with it. Bound by duty, Pearl travels to London on a mission to catch the attention of Mr. Clarence. Her father hopes to strike a match between the two due to a favor owed by the Clarence family. However, upon her arrival, Pearl meets Nicholas Dalton. The two can’t keep their eyes off each other and seem to settle for stolen glances across the dance floor. Pearl’s honor and obligation to her family is the only thing that stops her from forming an attachment to Nicholas. But Nicholas tries his best to break down the wall she puts up with his gentle manner and romantic poems.
This beautiful and wholesome story gives a new definition to the term slow-burn romance! Although there’s not any spice, the pureness of Pearl's and Nicholas’ characters is what kept me intrigued. Reading Nicholas’ poem to Pearl made me swoon and wonder where I could find a man like him. Edwina Kiernan’s Pearl’s Promise put a lot into perspective, especially the way parents pin their hopes and dreams on their children with no regard for what they want. Both characters come from a difficult parent-child relationship and try their best to help their families where they can. We see how both characters rise above their current circumstances and grow. This also teaches us an important life lesson that behind all the glitz and glamor one can be faced with difficult situations and tough decisions.
Pearl’s Promise by Edwina Kiernan is a romantic Regency novel, the second book in the Gems of Grace Series, and focuses on Pearl Acton and Nicholas Dalton. After attending Henry’s wedding to Ruby, Pearl makes her way home, only to discover that her family has lost their fortune and her dowry along with it. Bound by duty, Pearl travels to London on a mission to catch the attention of Mr. Clarence. Her father hopes to strike a match between the two due to a favor owed by the Clarence family. However, upon her arrival, Pearl meets Nicholas Dalton. The two can’t keep their eyes off each other and seem to settle for stolen glances across the dance floor. Pearl’s honor and obligation to her family is the only thing that stops her from forming an attachment to Nicholas. But Nicholas tries his best to break down the wall she puts up with his gentle manner and romantic poems.
This beautiful and wholesome story gives a new definition to the term slow-burn romance! Although there’s not any spice, the pureness of Pearl's and Nicholas’ characters is what kept me intrigued. Reading Nicholas’ poem to Pearl made me swoon and wonder where I could find a man like him. Edwina Kiernan’s Pearl’s Promise put a lot into perspective, especially the way parents pin their hopes and dreams on their children with no regard for what they want. Both characters come from a difficult parent-child relationship and try their best to help their families where they can. We see how both characters rise above their current circumstances and grow. This also teaches us an important life lesson that behind all the glitz and glamor one can be faced with difficult situations and tough decisions.
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