My thoughts: Author Carrie Turansky writes beautifully. Gentle. Real. Sweet. Charming. Stirring.
I approached this story looking for a pretty straightforward historical fiction set in England's charming Lake District. I am not overly fond of split timeline stories, but I thought I'd pursue Ms. Turansky's new venture.
I found it difficult to focus my attention being split between the story set in 1912 and the one 2012. A hundred years apart. Shouldn't be too hard, after all its not centuries apart (note plural). It is only 100 years. And it encompasses basically a timeline I should be able to comprehend - my grandparents and upward to my generation. But I found it difficult to keep it straight.
Around page 200 it began to come together for me, though I still am not fond of jumping back and forth in time. It ends with a beautifully wrapped up ending for both the 1912 story and that of its modern folks in 2012.
So for those who delight in split timelines, you'll enjoy this one; and it is sweet, charming, and strongly Christian in focus.
About the book: In 2012, art historian Gwen Monroe travels to England's Lake District to appraise the paintings and antiques of an old family friend, hoping to prove herself to her prestigious grandfather. While at Longdale Manor, she becomes acquainted with David Bradley--the owner's handsome grandson--who is desperate to save the crumbling estate by turning it into a bed-and-breakfast. When Gwen stumbles upon a one-hundred-year-old journal and an intricately carved shepherd's staff similar to one in a photo of her parents, she uncovers a connection to the father she never knew.
In 1912, after her father's death, Charlotte Harper uncovers a painful family secret she can only confess to her journal. She and her family travel to the Lake District to stay on a sheep farm, hoping eventually to find a home with Charlotte's grandfather at Longdale Manor, but old wounds and bitter regrets make it a difficult challenge. As Charlotte grows closer to shepherd Ian Storey and rebuilds her shattered faith, she must decide whether she will ever trust in love again.
Two women a century apart are taken on a journey to healing, faith, and forgiveness in this heartfelt dual-time Edwardian romance from bestselling author Carrie Turansky.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
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