That being said, my first read entered the new year with a freakishly loud BANG -- and sort of makes me want to quit writing altogether so I can become a full-time treasure hunter and find more amazing reads to share. (which is something that's gonna happen here on this blog quite frequently, so keep checking back).
I have long fan-girled over Laura Frantz. Laura is the type of person you see across a room, who is subtly graceful and compelling. Her presence is humble and when you chat with Laura, you're transported to a front porch, a old wooden-swing, some wildflowers, a cup of coffee and probably a piece of warm apple pie. All that to say, when I chat with Laura, I'm usually internally screaming and mentally reciting: "don't say something stupid, don't say something stupid..."
Her latest release that JUST hit shelves is TO DIE FOR! But please don't, that would make both Laura and I very sad. It's a story of hardship and love, of faith tested and hope pursued. It's everything Scottish and everything Virginian. It's a casserole dish of history, romance, sea-faring, castles, plantations, slavery, snobbery, heroes, and strong women.
My favorite character was shockingly, Lark. I don't usually get drawn into naming a main-character as my favorite, but Lark was an ultra-layered character and I loved her. She was so loyal to family and I related so deeply to her relationship with her Granny. I lived with my grandmother too, so I related on multiple levels. I especially love how Lark loved Magnus, the lord of the castle, but also didn't wither and simper at the loss of his love. She was independent of needing his love, and found fulfillment in the other blessings God gave her. Of course, their story doesn't necessarily end there, but I'm certainly not going to say any spoilers here.
Who's It For?
This novel is for readers who love historical romance--heavier on the historical elements, lighter on the romance. It's for readers who want a clear but non-preachy Christian message woven throughout. It's definitely safe for teen readers but probably needs a fairly advanced level of reading comprehension.
Where Can I Get It?
Your favorite book retailer!! And I highly advise ordering online from Baker Book House, one of my personal favorite bookstores. Not only are your supporting the author by purchasing from a bookstore, but also supporting local businesses!
How Many Coffee Cups Does Jaime Give It?
Like I said, I'm starting off 2019 with a BANG! So A Bound Heart earns a legitimate 5 Coffee Cups from me. (See Rating System below)
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☕ - I'm still asleep and need a refill, STAT!
☕☕ - Well, I'm awake but that was coffee from a can of generic beans
☕☕☕ - I am satisfied with this coffee. It did its job.
☕☕☕☕ - This was a really solid cup of coffee, all the right nuances and it lingers delightfully
☕☕☕☕☕ - I may die if I don't ever drink this coffee again! My coffee-drinking habits are forever changed! (This rating is a rare Jaime-declaration)
OMG, I love your review and coffee ☕ rating!!! I will be listening to this book soon! 👐
ReplyDelete"A Bound Heart" is my first book of the new year, too. I love this line in your review: "It's a casserole dish of history, romance, sea-faring, castles, plantations, slavery, snobbery, heroes, and strong women." Perfect!!! What a way to start the new year.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful review!! I, too, am reading A BOUND HEART as my first finished book of the new year! The above review could be a book in itself -- love it! So many visuals and positively FILLED with word magic! I've had my tiny red monogrammed Oxford dictionary out this a.m. with MY first cup of coffee (not sure how I would rate the coffee, but it's good, and have looked up words taken for granted my entire life -- words brimming with Scotland). I am loving how just when my nerves are about to get the best of me, Scripture is quoted (a life goal -- to meet life's challenges with Scripture just as quickly and easily). Thank you, as well, for sharing your impressions of everyone's beloved Laura. Sometimes I wonder if she has to prick herself with a pin because of all the love lavished upon her. I have your book (TBR) on my Kindle. Am so looking forward to reading it!
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