My Bookshelf: The Curiosity Keeper by Sarah E. Ladd

“It is not just a ruby, as you say. It is large as a quail’s egg, still untouched and unpolished. And it is rumored to either bless or curse whoever possesses it.”

                Camille Iverness can take care of herself. She’s done so since the day her mother abandoned the family and left Camille to run their shabby curiosity shop. But when a violent betrayal leaves her injured with no place to hide, Camille must allow a mysterious stranger to come to her aid.

                Jonathan Gilchrist never wanted to inherit Kettering Hall. As a second son, he was content to work as the village apothecary. But when his brother’s death made him heir just as his father’s foolish decisions put the estate at risk, only the sale of a priceless possession—a ruby called the Bevoy—can save the family from ruin. But the gem has disappeared. And all trails lead to Iverness Curiosity Shop—and the beautiful girl who may be the answer to his many questions.

                Caught at the intersection of blessings and curses, greed and deceit, these two determined souls must unite to protect what they hold dear. But when a passion that shines far brighter than any gem is ignited, they will have to decide how much they are willing to risk for their future, love, and happiness.

         The Curiosity Keeper is the first novel in Sarah E. Ladd’s new series, Treasures of Surrey, and is another book I couldn’t help but pre-order before it came out one week ago. I first stumbled upon Sarah when I found one of her novels as a bargain book, and I have loved her ever since. Although I wasn’t sure what to expect when I took a chance on The Headmistress of Rosemere, but I found an author that will forever be one of my favorites, and a book that I will read again and again. And the same goes for The Curiosity Keeper. I loved it so much I have already lent it to a friend, knowing she will enjoy it just as much as I did. I finished it in only one day anyway, so I had plenty of time between then and now to give it to her.

        Let me start off by saying that Sarah’s historical facts were, as always, impeccable. I felt as if I had been transported to Surrey as it was in 1812, and that made the story all that much better. On top of that, the mystery of the Bevoy was captivating, and I never saw it ending the way that it did. While it was cleverly written so as to keep you guessing, it also worked out in such a way that I couldn’t have imagined, in a way that was very unique and interesting. To top it all off, Sarah pulled the whole story together with some of the most perfect characters, whether heroes or villains.

        Camille Iverness is by far one of my favorite heroines. Always strong and courageous, she faces everything that is thrown at her with remarkable calm and levelheadedness, focusing on how to fix the problem—where to go next—rather than the pain and trouble the situation causes. Full of compassion and forgiveness, she embodies many of the things I long to be, and her fire and determination is also something to be admired. While no one is perfect, not even Camille, she is easy to love despite her flaws, and I am happy to tell you she overcomes them in the end. How could it be a good book otherwise?

        Jonathan Gilchrist is another character to love. Always eager to serve, his compassion and servant’s heart make him incredibly endearing, and his determination to serve his family despite his reluctance prove he is a man of worth. Although he already gives you many reasons to love him, the way he treats Camille trumps them all. I cannot imagine a sweeter, kinder gentleman than he, and I know that if I had been Camille I would have snatched him up immediately. Of course, there were other situations to be considered, and women in 1812 didn’t do that sort of thing (and even now I still believe the man should do the chasing), but he is the kind of man you don’t find every day.

        Clearly this novel deserves all five bookmarks, so that is what I am giving it, as well as a permanent spot on my all-time favorites list—although, now that I think about it, all of the spots are permanent. Anyway, this book was well worth purchasing, and comes highly recommended. Really, I would recommend any of Sarah’s books, but especially this one, and the second in the series—Dawn at Emberwilde—which releases next May. Sarah writes wonderful historical novels that will keep you captivated until the last page that I can almost promise you will enjoy.

        Happy reading!

You can purchase your own copy of any of the three books I mentioned here.

Photo creds go to my awesome sister, Allie. Check out her blogs here and here.

I am linking up at Bloggers Who Have Inspired Me and Totally Terrific Tuesdays.

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Sarah E. Ladd and her publishers.

For Such a Time by Kate Breslin

        In 1944, Hadassah Benjamin feels abandoned by God when she is saved from a firing squad only to be handed over to a new enemy. Pressed into service by SS Kommandant Colonel Aric von Schmidt at the transit camp of Theresienstadt in Czechoslovakia, her Aryan-like looks allow her to hide behind the false identity of Stella Muller. However, to maintain her cover as von Schmidt’s secretary, she if forced to stand by as her own people are sent to Auschwitz.

        Suspecting her employer is a man of hidden depths, Stella appeals to him on behalf of those in the camp. Aric’s indulgence gives her hope even as she risks discovery with every attempt to help the prisoners. When her bravery brings her to the point of ultimate sacrifice, she faces an excruciating choice. God may have brought her to the camp for such a time as this, but how can she save her people when she cannot save herself?

        This was another new author for me, but let me just say, Kate Breslin made it onto my favorite authors list before I was even halfway through this book. With its decidedly ‘Esther’ theme paralleling extremely well to the beloved Bible story, For Such a Time swept me away from almost the first page. Her World War II facts were impeccable, and they weren’t presented in such a way that might be boring to some, but just added so much to the story that it felt as if I was transported into that time and place. On top of that, the storyline was so completely intriguing and full of unexpected twists that I found it impossible to put down.

        Hadassah/Stella is by far one of my favorite heroines. Even after facing the horrors of Dachau and barely escaping a firing squad, she risked her life again and again in attempts to save the prisoners at Auschwitz. Her bravery was inspiring, but not only that, she was a relatable character. I felt that if I had been there, I would’ve loved to have her for a friend. And I suppose she is now. All characters are friends, ones that you can visit any time you open the pages.

        I really loved Aric as well. Although he had so much pain bottled up inside him, hardness that bubbled out whenever provoked, he was truly sweet, when he let himself be. He was compassionate and considerate, he just didn’t believe he could be that man. Once I got to know him better, I loved him even more. He is also one of my favorites. Especially since he is such a valiant warrior. You’ll find out why that’s important when you read the book.

        Can I just say how much I loved the ending? Although I was threatening to throw the book at the wall multiple times near the end, the actual ending was absolutely perfect. Clearly I cannot help giving For Such a Time all five bookshelves, and I know I am eagerly anticipating her next novel, Not by Sight, which releases next month. I highly recommend picking up this book as soon as you get a chance, because I can almost guarantee you will love it.

        Happy reading!

You can purchase your own copy of either For Such a Time or Not by Sight here.

I'm linking up over at Spreading My Joy.

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Kate Breslin and her publishers.

How to Catch a Prince by Rachel Hauck

Behind him, beside him, before him, the synchronized cathedral bells began to ring out. One, two three… Then she said it first. The words his heart burst to share. “I love you, Stephen. You are my true prince.

        American heiress Corina Del Rey caught her prince once. But the tragedy of war kept her too long in a fog of grief. Now she’s shifting her life forward, reigniting her career as a journalist. Still, nothing can relieve her of the secret and the love she carries in her soul.

        Prince Stephen of Brighton is one of the world’s most eligible bachelors and a star rugby player, trying to make sense of his life. But his days in Afghanistan with the Royal Air Command have marked him forever. And he can’t seem to shake their dark shadow.

        But when his brother, King Nathaniel, confronts him with a document the prince thought long buried and forgotten, Stephen is forced to face the pain of his past and the love he left behind.

        With a little heavenly help, Prince Stephen and Corina embark on a journey of truth. But when the secrets are revealed, can they overcome and find love again?

        How to Catch a Prince by Rachel Hauck is the third book in her Royal Weddings series, and is by far my favorite of them all. Rachel has been one of my favorite authors ever since I first read her book, The Wedding Dress, and I have read many of her novels since then, so I knew going in that this book would be amazing. Especially since I absolutely adored Once Upon a Prince and Princess Ever After. What I didn’t anticipate, however, was how much I loved Corina—who was a bit of a spitfire—Prince Stephen—whose painful struggles, and charming nature, made him all the more endearing—and their unconventional relationship—the details of which I never saw coming.

        While I loved Corina because of her I-won’t-get-walked-all-over attitude and the way she never backed down, I also—like with Prince Stephen—loved her through her struggles. Although I hated that she had to go through them, I couldn’t get enough of how she fought through them and didn’t let them, especially the death of her brother, keep her from living. She was an inspiration in many ways, but the most important way was by her loving well. I can’t explain what I mean by that without spoiling some of the story, but let me just say, I walked away from this book with my own desire to “love well”, and that is something I will never forget about this novel.

        Then there’s Prince Stephen. Can I just say, that despite his sullenness and the way he treats Corina—though that is just because of his pain—he really is the perfect Prince. And I just love some of the things he says, and the accent that I know he has, and I hear in my head. He’s not always sullen, let me tell you, and when he isn’t, he can be extremely sweet. Besides, how can you not melt a little when he calls her “love”? I mean, what wouldn’t I give to be called that (anyone else agree)? At the same time, I also felt so much sympathy for him as he struggled through the pain he felt. He’s another character you just cannot help falling in love with.

        Because How to Catch a Prince is so full of loveable characters—who were not the same at the end of the book—and amazing descriptions of Brighton that made me feel as if I was actually there, I happily give this book all five bookshelves, and a place on my all-time-favorites list. I also just really loved how I took things from this story to apply to my own life. I’m always saying how I want the characters to have changed on the inside by the time I get to the end of a book, but what really makes a novel great is when you change as well. That is when you know you have read a wonderful novel. So, I loudly applaud Rachel for this amazing final installment in her series. I absolutely loved it.

        Happy reading!

Don’t forget, you can find all the books I mention on my Amazon Store!

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Rachel Hauck and her publishers.

My Bookshelf: Lady Maybe by Julie Klassen

        One final cry… “God Almighty, help us!” and suddenly her world shifted violently, until a blinding collision scattered her mind and shook her bones. Then, the pain. The freezing water. And as all sensation drifted away, a hand reaching for hers, before all faded to darkness…

        Now she has awakened as though from some strange, suffocating dream in a warm and welcoming room she has never seen before, and is tended to by kind, unfamiliar faces. But not all has been swept away. She recalls fragments of the accident. She remembers a baby. And a ring on her finger reminds her of a lie.

        But most of all, there is a secret. And in this house of strangers, she can trust no one but herself.

        Since I have read, to date, every single one of Julie Klassen’s novels, I was highly anticipating Lady Maybe, which just released last Tuesday. Can I just say, it did not disappoint. I have never read a novel that intrigued me more. Clearly the description arouses your curiosity with every word, so it’s no surprise that the book does the same. You cannot help but devour each chapter as each one leads you to the next, making you long to know what will happen next. And let me assure you that Lady Maybe is not in the slightest bit predictable. But I loved it for that.

        Now, I long to rave about my favorite characters, but I fear spoiling all the surprises. So, let me just say, there were many characters I did not like. Although I liked the way Julie portrayed them and found them excellently written, I cannot say I did not almost hate them. They just got in the way, were completely ridiculous, or caused pain to the characters I did love in a way that I found absolutely unforgivable. Obviously though, my hatred stems from the fact that Julie knows how to create such believable antagonists.

        Then there were the characters I loved. There was one, in particular, that—despite his seemingly gruff exterior—I completely fell in love with. There was just something about him that drew me to him, and had me championing his cause almost from page one. I’m sure you’ll understand once you start this book. He just…I don’t know…had me sighing from the moment I met him. Although I’m not exactly sure why I fell so hard for him, maybe it started as sympathy because of all Julie put him through, I know that he has become one of my favorite male characters.

        Anyway, this book knocked me off my feet with its compelling story, and the way it perfectly portrayed regency England. I felt transported back to the time and place, and found it difficult to remember where I really was. Since it aroused my curiosity with each new twist and turn, I read the whole novel in just a few hours, and now am ready to pick it up and read it again. Instead, however, I have decided to lend it to a couple of friends. After all, I did receive it the day it released, read it in its entirety the day after, and find it to be one of my favorite books in all the world. How could I not share something so new and wonderful with my reader friends?

        So, if you haven’t figured it out by now, this novel easily earns all five bookshelves, for being absolutely unforgettable. I know that it will be a book I will be eager to read again and again, and it makes me even more excited as I anticipate the release of her next novel, The Painter’s Daughter, which releases in December. Believe me, I’m already planning to pre-order it. Not only am I sure to enjoy it, I’ve also possibly gotten addicted to pre-ordering. There is just something about getting a book in the mail the day it releases. Anyway, I highly recommend you read this book as soon as possible. It is well worth it.

        Happy reading!

You can purchase your own copy here.
Linking up at Bloggers Who Have Inspired Me.
Also linking up at Totally Terrific Tuesday.

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Julie Klassen and her publishers.

My Bookshelf: A Worthy Pursuit by Karen Witemeyer

(This is my regular Tuesday My Bookshelf post, only it is being posted today, on a Friday, because I received this novel from a Bethany House giveaway and had planned on reviewing it this week, only it didn’t arrive until late Monday night. So I just swapped the days!)

A teacher on the run. A bounty hunter in pursuit. Can two enemies learn to trust each other before they both lose what they hold most dear?

        Stone Hammond is the best tracker in Texas. He never comes home empty-handed. So when a wealthy railroad investor hires him to find his abducted granddaughter, Stone eagerly accepts.

        Charlotte Atherton, former headmistress of Sullivan’s Academy for Exceptional Youths, will do anything to keep her charges safe, especially the orphaned girl entrusted to her care. Charlotte promised Lily’s mother she’d keep the girl away from her unscrupulous grandfather, and nothing will stop Charlotte from fulfilling that pledge. Not even the handsome bounty hunter with surprisingly honest eyes who comes looking for them.

        When Miss Atherton produces documentation that shows her to be Lily’s legal guardian, Stone must reevaluate everything he’s been led to believe. Is she villain or victim?

        Then a new danger forces Charlotte to trust the man sent to destroy her. Stone vows to protect what he once sought to tear apart. Besides, he’s ready to start a new pursuit: winning Charlotte’s heart.

        A Worthy Pursuit was one of the few books by Karen Witemeyer that I had not read, until now of course. She has been one of my favorite authors ever since I read Stealing the Preacher a few years ago, and I have been unable to put any of her novels down after picking them up. With her witty dialogue and swoon-worthy heroes, Karen crafts historical stories that will draw you in and leave you melting in a little puddle, and A Worthy Pursuit is no exception.

        Let me introduce you to Stone Hammond. A former Texas Ranger turned successful tracker (though I like to say retriever, you’ll know why if you read the book), Stone appears at first to Charlotte as the strong, burly, intimidating—albeit handsome—man that he is. On the inside though, is another story. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Stone is a good, Christian man with a soft heart that quickly grows to love Charlotte’s charges who vows to protect them, and their teacher, with everything in him. How can you not fall for a hero like that?

        Now, Charlotte may not be a dashing Texas cowboy, but she is important too. Still reeling from the rejection of her father and a former suitor, she hides herself behind a mask she has let no one—not even her young charges—penetrate. When Stone comes looking for Lily, she coolly proves to him she’s Lily’s legal guardian, despite the fear that rages inside. Slowly, though, she begins to trust their rugged hero, especially as he proves he would do anything for her and her students. But, there is a big difference between trusting him with their lives and giving him her heart. Will she ever surrender to his very worthy pursuit?

        If you are not jumping out of your seat determined to pick up A Worthy Pursuit this very minute—or at least very soon—then I have done a sorry job describing it. Believe me, this novel deserves double the five bookshelves I am giving it, but my scale doesn’t go that high. I cannot describe to you in words how amazing this novel was, not just because of its melted-me-into-a-puddle love story. Although that (obviously) played a really big part. The suspense playing into Lily’s situation gave this book exactly what it needed, and the little details made it all the more enjoyable. A Worthy Pursuit is a novel fully worthy (see what I did there?) of all the praise I could ever give it, and the assurance that I know I will read it again and again. If you pick up this book, I promise you won’t be disappointed.

        Happy reading!

You can purchase your own copy of the book here.
All credit for the amazing photography goes to my little sister Allie (check out her blogs here and here).

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Karen Witemeyer and her publishers.

A Most Inconvenient Marriage by Regina Jennings

Abigail Stuart thought she was Jeremiah Calhoun’s widow. But Jeremiah Calhoun is very handsome, very alive, and very perplexed. Most inconvenient indeed.

        With few options of her own, nurse Abigail Stuart agrees to marry her patient, a gravely wounded soldier calling himself Jeremiah Calhoun. They arrange a quick ceremony before he dies, giving Abigail the rights to his Ozark farm and giving Jeremiah the peace of knowing someone will care for his ailing sister after he’s gone—a practical solution for both of them.

        After the war, Abigail fulfills her side of the bargain—until the real Jeremiah Calhoun shows up, injured but definitely alive, and wastes no time in challenging Abigail’s story. Abigail is flummoxed. After months of claiming to be his widow, how can she explain that she’s never seen this Jeremiah Calhoun before? How can she convince him that she isn’t trying to steal his farm? And will she find a way to stay, even though this practical arrangement has turned into a most inconvenient marriage?

        Nurse Abigail Stuart never encouraged the attentions of any of her patients, knowing they were lonely and in pain and not really attracted to her. But when her favorite patient, the gravely wounded Jeremiah Calhoun, asks her to marry him as a practical arrangement—in the interest of his ailing sister—she reluctantly accepts. After he passes, she carries out her part of the bargain by making her way to his farm and family, until she is stunned by the appearance of the real Jeremiah Calhoun. Will she be able to convince him that her story is true and she has no intention of stealing his farm, or will he quickly send her packing?

        A Most Inconvenient Marriage by Regina Jennings is the first of her books that I have read, and I must say I was very pleasantly surprised. I have now found another author to put on my favorites list. With its clever plotline and suspenseful story, this novel is one to remember, especially since its characters were so relatable. Abigail’s struggles were ones anyone could understand, and I loved reading about Jeremiah’s determination to overcome his injury.

        Not only were the characters relatable, but the story wasn’t as predictable as it sounds. It kept me hooked, unsure what would happen, but so sure I wanted to keep reading to find out. I read the book in a day, if that tells you anything. And it was well worth shirking my responsibilities for. It also well deserves all of the five bookshelves I am giving it. You should read it sometime. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

        Happy reading!

You can pick up your own copy here.

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Regina Jennings and her publishers.

Currently—July

        Here’s my post of what I’m currently doing this month! Right now I’m…

        Craving ice cream. Ice cream. Ice cream. It doesn’t matter what kind, or if it is soft serve or not, just so long as it is cold and sweet. In the summer, I constantly crave ice cream, maybe because it is refreshing in our hundred-and-five degree weather. Either way, right now mint chocolate chip is my favorite, although I also really enjoy moose tracks. And vanilla. And chocolate peanut butter. On another note, I’m also really in love with watermelon right now.

        I’m currently grilling…burgers. Always burgers. I just love sitting out on my screened in porch on a Saturday night and eating grilled cheeseburgers and fresh, creamy coleslaw. There is no better way to spend a summer night.

        I’m currently listening to David Dunn’s whole album, For the Life of Me. I already knew David was a great artist since I love his single Today Is Beautiful—which is my alarm by the way—so I knew getting this album would be a good idea. Needless to say, I cannot stop listening to it. Heart Stops is my favorite. Although So We Sing is pretty fabulous too.

        I am planning the best real-life tea party you could ever imagine with a few of my close friends. We’re pulling out all the stops, with scones, little cakes, and lots and lots of tea. We’re even going to dress up in dresses—I’m wearing the one I mentioned in my last Currently post—and have themed decorations. I don’t want to give too much away since I will be posting about it after the party’s over, but let me tell you, it will be wonderful. And the little bit of England I am always longing for.

        Last but not least, I am currently not decorating anything, although next month, I will be changing my residence. I know I will be decorating then, so I’m going to let that count for this month, as I’m sure I’ll start purchasing some new things. And deciding how I’m going to decorate. So, that counts.

        That’s what I’m doing this July! What about you?