Monday, February 10, 2014

Love's Sweet Beginning by Ann Shorey

I am so excited to be bringing this review to you! This is my first review for the Revell Reads blogging program and I look forward to reviewing more of their wonderful books. This is also the first book I've ready by Ann Shorey, and I really enjoyed it!

Overview: What will it take for a once-privileged young woman to make her way in the world?
It isn't Cassie Haddon's fault that she has reached the age of twenty-five without possessing any useful skills. Until the War Between the States, she always had servants. Since then, she and her mother have been forced to rely on family to care for them. But now the well of human kindness has run dry--and Cassie must find work to support them.

Unfortunately, leaving the past behind is easier said than done, and Cassie must summon all of her courage and wits to convince local restaurateur and grocer Jacob West that she's exactly what his business needs.

With her signature sweet romance, Ann Shorey weaves a tale of two people from different backgrounds finding common ground and the hope of a bright future together.

My Review: This was such a sweet story. Since Ann Shorey is a new author to me, I did not know what to expect. I was also a little apprehensive that this was the third book in a series.  Even though I have not read the previous books in the Sisters at Heart series, I had no problem keeping up with the events in the book. It did, however, make me curious enough to read about Faith and Rosemary's stories. The plot was not fast paced or adventurous, but it was not boring either. The author had me intrigued and trying to figure out Jacob's past. The romance between Jacob and Cassie was well thought out and so sweet. Who knew such a gruff person could be so sweet to the woman he loved!

The characters, especially Cassie, were well-written and relatable. Cassie just wants to be useful. Everyone feels like that sometimes. I know I do, which is why I could so easily identify with her! Jacob reminds me of my fiance, a little rough around the edges but sweet in the middle with a big heart. Both characters transform throughout the story in a very subtle way.

The message of the story is learning to trust. Trust in yourself, and trust in God. Overall, this was a sweet story with a great message. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series!

**Thank you Revell Reads for providing this book to me for free in exchange for my honest review.**
*****
Ann Shorey is the author of the At Home in Beldon Grove series, Where Wildflowers Bloom, and When the Heart Heals. She has also published selections in the Cup of Comfort series and in Chicken Soup for the Grandma's Soul. Ann and her husband make their home in southwestern Oregon. Learn more at www.annshorey.com.

*****
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1 comment:

  1. Thank you for your great review, Shannah! I loved what you had to say about Love's Sweet Beginning. Blessings to you!

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