Veil of Pearls

Apr 22, 2012 Cheryl Olson rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: net-galley, reviews-2012, abc-challenge-2012

Sadly in America, Freedom is something we all tend to take for granted. But in the book “Veil of Pearls” by MaryLu Tyndall we meet a young woman named Althea who knows the true value of freedom as she fights tooth and nail to gain hers. She escapes her Barbados plantation prison from a cruel slave master by sneaking away and gaining passage on a ship bound for Charleston, South Carolina. It is here that she reinvents herself and changes her name to Adalia and seeks to help in a local orphanage w...more Sadly in America, Freedom is something we all tend to take for granted. But in the book “Veil of Pearls” by MaryLu Tyndall we meet a young woman named Althea who knows the true value of freedom as she fights tooth and nail to gain hers. She escapes her Barbados plantation prison from a cruel slave master by sneaking away and gaining passage on a ship bound for Charleston, South Carolina. It is here that she reinvents herself and changes her name to Adalia and seeks to help in a local orphanage with the ill children as she has abilities with natural healing remedies. As she is so light-skinned that no one guesses her to be a runaway slave, she starts her new life with her slave status going undetected by those around her. She does however manage to catch the eye of a local young man coming from one of the most prominent and wealthy families in town, Morgan Ruteledge. Adalia’s initial meeting with Morgan is one filled with ire and she definitely puts the rather bold and spoiled young man in his place.

Adalia’s skills as a young healer catch the attention of a local Dr. in need of a young assistant willing to take care of the local “Negro’s” in need of care, especially for the slaves in the local plantations. This provides Adalia with the fresh start she needs with room and board with the Dr. It also causes her to cross paths with Morgan as Adalia is summoned to his family’s plantation to help with the ill slaves. Morgan is captivated by Adalia and wears her down with his constant attention. Adalia is finally swayed by his constant attention, good looks and charm and agrees to accompany him on several occasions to parties, the theatre, etc. She definitely begins to be wooed by his lifestyle and by Morgan as well as she gets to know Morgan and see how he is influenced by her. The Dr. with whom she is staying is not a fan of the Ruteledge family and so tries to strongly discourage Adalia from the attentions paid her by Morgan. But the heart wants what the heart wants and Adalia ignores the Dr.’s counsel. Of course Adalia’s past catches up to her, but how will Morgan respond to the knowledge that the woman he is falling in love with is a former slave?

My thoughts on this book are that MaryLu Tyndall writes with a lot of passion and brings a storyline that is compelling and romantic. You truly do root for Adalia as she has so many past struggles and things she has overcome, along with past convictions. I appreciate it though that the author didn’t make her incapable of falling a bit- sort of getting caught up in the whole rich, glittery lifestyle of Morgan and sort of became drawn in by it all. Morgan had so much growth to do as well with his stand on slavery, the out of proportion importance of his wealthy lifestyle, etc. I also really liked the Dr’s storyline and background as well which made you understand his over-protective nature concerning Adalia. I thought there were many layers to the story. I would say the only thing that caught me off guard a bit were some of the romantic scenes. They seemed just slightly overdone at times- Just my 2 cents. Overall, a very enjoyable and heartfelt read.

4 stars

I graciously received a free copy of this book through the Net galley program in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own
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Feb 25, 2013 Gwen rated it 4 of 5 stars

Althea escapes slavery on a Barbados sugar plantation, and uses the advantage of her light skin to establish a new life in Charleston under the guise of "Adalia Winston". A local plantation owner's spoiled son won't accept her constant "no" to his party invitations and social calls, and when he finally cracks through her armor and garners a "yes", Adalia is swept into a glittering world of status, finery and show. A world she does not belong to.

Whenever I pick up a Marylu Tyndall book, I know th...more

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Jul 14, 2012 Ryssmiles rated it 2 of 5 stars

Plot Summary:

It is 1811, and the prosperous port city of Charleston is bustling with immigrants like Adalia. But she has a secret: her light skin belies that she is part black and a runaway slave from Barbados. She lives in terror that her owner will come looking for her. Instead Morgan, the son of a plantation owner, finds her. He is handsome, charming, bored--and enamored of the beautiful Adalia. Soon she is swept into his glamorous world, a world in which the truth about Adalia's heritage wou...more Plot Summary:

It is 1811, and the prosperous port city of Charleston is bustling with immigrants like Adalia. But she has a secret: her light skin belies that she is part black and a runaway slave from Barbados. She lives in terror that her owner will come looking for her. Instead Morgan, the son of a plantation owner, finds her. He is handsome, charming, bored--and enamored of the beautiful Adalia. Soon she is swept into his glamorous world, a world in which the truth about Adalia's heritage would ruin her--and Morgan. This epic romance reveals the beauty and tragedy of the Old South.
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Going Deeper - Book Themes:

At first Adalia only craves freedom from her bondage. When she escapes to freedom, though life is hard, she finds contentment. Then she receives more than she could have dreamed and she is grateful. But it doesn't take long for her to lose her focus and even forget the webs of deception that she has woven to establish her new life.

Suddenly respected in a way she has never known, Adalia craves more. But what is she truly after? Is it position, power, influence, respect? Or is it love? She must look to the Lord and into the depths of her own soul to answer these questions.

Will the love that she hopes for be destroyed by her lies or will she trust in truth to refine and prove a love that is real?
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My Opinion:

I can't honestly say that I loved this book. There were rich themes to be uncovered, but I personally never connected with Adalia's character. I couldn't relate to her actions, how she went from running for her life to happily being the belle of the ball assuming that she could become a plantation owner's wife all the while hiding her past. Morgan was the character that seemed the most believable, but even he wasn't fully able to draw me into the tale.

Because I didn't connect with the novel's characters, I saw the deeper themes, but wasn't able to relate deeply to them in the context of the story. If I hadn't agreed to review this book I would have set it aside and forgotten about it. Actually, even though I agreed to review this book, I very nearly forgot to do so. I was simply underwhelmed with the novel as a whole. It was just OK and not the standout that I hoped. I'm sorry to say it, because I have been moved by other novels by Tyndall, but this book did not measure up to my expectations.
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I received a free digital copy of this novel in exchange for my honest opinion. (less)

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Aug 02, 2012 Michelle Griep rated it 5 of 5 stars

Is the content of our character really decided by the color of our skin? It was back in 1811 Charleston. In VEIL OF PEARLS, author MaryLu Tyndall body-slams into this sensitive topic...and comes out the victor!

Adalia is a runaway slave, but her skin is so light, no one guesses she's got a black heritage. She settles in a town where no one knows her and begins a new life. A good life. And it works...for awhile. Enter the dashing hero, Morgan, who's a wealthy plantation owner's son. Conflict firew...more

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Jan 02, 2013 Jamie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Books are amazing. Big surprise right? I love that they can take you to the past, a different world, the future, wherever you want to go. Beats television any day. I know it’s an extra fantastic read when I’m thinking about the book throughout the day, at work (I hate when that gets in the way of my reading) and I’m looking forward to when I can dive back into the world I’m reading. That was the exact case with Veil of Pearls by MaryLu Tyndall.

Sometimes stories can be cheesy beyond what I can to...more

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Nov 30, 2012 Tamara rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, m-l-tyndall

This is the longest I’ve had to wait to read a MaryLu Tyndall book. But, with a very hectic summer, prior commitments, and family matters, I wasn’t able to pick up VEIL OF PEARLS until yesterday. And as always, I couldn’t put it down.

Adalia Winston has escaped slavery in Barbados and has begun a new life in the port city of Charleston. Her light skin allows her to hide her heritage, and she quickly finds herself putting her knowledge of herbal medicines to use as a doctor’s assistant. When she c...more This is the longest I’ve had to wait to read a MaryLu Tyndall book. But, with a very hectic summer, prior commitments, and family matters, I wasn’t able to pick up VEIL OF PEARLS until yesterday. And as always, I couldn’t put it down.

Adalia Winston has escaped slavery in Barbados and has begun a new life in the port city of Charleston. Her light skin allows her to hide her heritage, and she quickly finds herself putting her knowledge of herbal medicines to use as a doctor’s assistant. When she catches the eye of Morgan Rutledge, she thinks nothing of quickly dispatching of him and his persistent advances. Though he is quite handsome, he is one of the wealthy elite and travels amongst the upper crust of society, a circle she will clearly never be a part of.

Rutledge Morgan can’t get Adalia Winston out of his mind or thoughts. Though he knows she is not in the same station as he and his prominent family, it does little to quell his interest. He pursues her relentlessly, and all the more when he sees her defenses waning.

Adalia and Morgan continue to fool themselves into thinking they can rise above the many obstacles plaguing their relationship. Adalia knows she will have no future with Morgan once he finds out about her heritage and that she is nothing more than a runaway slave. Morgan knows his powerful father will never allow him to court a commoner like Adalia.

But somehow, they continue to fall farther in love. A love neither of them will admit. A love that will never be fulfilled when Adalia’s identity is discovered, and her wicked owner comes to claim her as his own. Morgan must decide for himself what it is he wants. Adelia and the freedom to pursue his passion of sailing, or wealth and his family name.

Like all of MaryLu’s books, I absolutely loved VEIL OF PEARLS. MaryLu’s writing is so smooth and fluid, you can’t help but turn page after page. Her characters are so well fleshed out, and her imagery so tangible, your heart breaks with the circumstances that befall Adalia and Morgan, and you can almost feel the spray of the ocean mist as Morgan turns to the sea for solace.

Another favorite in my library.

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Aug 31, 2012 Kathleen E. rated it 5 of 5 stars

Saturday, September 1, 2012
Veil of Pearls by MaryLu Tyndall, c2012

An unlocked door. A chance to move. Chains.

Each step she took toward freedom loosened the fetters enslaving her soul until they began to slip away, one by one. --Veil of Pearls, page 7

Leaving one perilous situation to come to another? Has a change of name not changed her servitude? Althea Claymore, now known as Adalia Winston, is offered and takes a position as a physician's assistant under Doctor Langston Willaby. Is she to be...more Saturday, September 1, 2012
Veil of Pearls by MaryLu Tyndall, c2012

An unlocked door. A chance to move. Chains.

Each step she took toward freedom loosened the fetters enslaving her soul until they began to slip away, one by one. --Veil of Pearls, page 7

Leaving one perilous situation to come to another? Has a change of name not changed her servitude? Althea Claymore, now known as Adalia Winston, is offered and takes a position as a physician's assistant under Doctor Langston Willaby. Is she to be tossed right back into a life she had known for seven years previously? Only... she now is on the opposite side of the role as she arrives at Rutledge Hall. With her knowledge of healing herbs, Adalia is sent to the plantation by Dr. Willably to care for a sick child. Compassion. She knows the ill service others are given and desires to correct it. But how can she? Meeting the two Rutledge sons, Hadley and Morgan, she is convinced they are unequal to the task.

Provision of her needs beyond what she has known, Althea becomes a distant past as Adalia is given good physical care with food and shelter. Is it enough to rise above the terror of discovery? Historical fiction is my very favorite! Come and join this adventure and discover for yourself, Veil of Pearls!

It is 1811, and the prosperous port city of Charleston is bustling with plantation owners, slaves, and immigrants. Immigrants such as the raven-haired Adalia Winston. But Adalia has a secret: her light skin belies that she is part black and a runaway slave from Barbados. Skilled in herbal remedies, Adalia soon finds employment with a local doctor, and settles into a quiet life, thanking God every day for her freedom. Still, she lives in terror that her owner will come looking for her.
Born into one of Charleston’s prominent plantation families, Morgan Rutledge is handsome, charming, bored—and enamored of the beautiful Adalia, who spurns his advances. His persistence, however, finally wins, and soon Adalia is swept into the glamorous world of Charleston high society, a world of luxury and opulence she never knew existed.
But her new life comes at a high price—that of denying her heritage and her zeal for God. How far is Adalia willing to go to win the approval of society and the heart of the man she loves? And when her secret is discovered, will that love be enough or will the truth ruin Morgan and send Adalia back into slavery?

Can she ever be truly free? Meeting society contacts soothes the soul for awhile, but then becomes empty again; void of meaning. As the young future slave-owner prospect becomes enamored, will he be truly free to love and follow the lead and tug of his heart?

Come and meet the author of Veil of Pearls, MaryLu Tyndall. You will be glad you did! Swashbuckling Romances Anchored in Faith ~ www.marylutyndall.com, at her blog www.crossandcutlass.blogspot.com, and Facebook www.facebook.com/pages/MaryLu-Tyndall... where you will find the sea tugs at her heart, and to you in the adventure it brings! Thank you to Barbour Publishing for a copy of Veil of Pearls in exchange for this review in my own words. (less)

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Aug 19, 2012 Jessica Stanley rated it 5 of 5 stars

MaryLu Tyndall has written 10 wonderful seafairing adventures over the last several years & her 11th "Veil Of Pearls" is by far her best work to date! There is not one bad thing that can be said about this book.... (but who am I kidding, there never is when u read one written by MaryLu Tyndall...lol!). "Veil Of Pearls" is the story of a beautiful runaway slave named Adalia. Trying to escape her past & the abuse she has suffered, Adalia leaves her home in Barbados & boards a ship boun...more

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Aug 18, 2012 Barb rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: marylu-tyndall

I recently finished reading MaryLu Tyndall’s newest book, Veil of Pearls and I can honestly say that it is her best book yet. I am an avid fan of MaryLu, have read all her books, and have enjoyed them all; but I have to say that Veil of Pearls is now at the top of the list. I was hooked from the first chapter, and it was hard to put down.
Veil of Pearls is a beautiful story about Adalia, a runaway slave and Morgan, an aristocrat who falls in love with her. The setting is Charleston, SC in the ea...more

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Aug 03, 2012 Lisa Norato rated it 5 of 5 stars

By land or by sea, MaryLu Tyndall never fails to deliver an exceptional love story full of romance, danger and adventure. Veil of Pearls has all this and more! This Cinderella story set in early nineteenth-century Charleston, South Carolina, whisks readers off to high society balls and horse races, brings them inside a southern plantation and sails them away on a merchant ship under attack.

As a long-time fan of Ms. Tyndall, I love her settings, but it is her unique characters who give heart and...more

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Jul 23, 2012 Janet Barnes rated it 5 of 5 stars

I was fortunate to receive a copy of MaryLu's new Christian Historical Fiction book Veil of Pearls. About the book, from her website:

It is 1811, and the prosperous port city of Charleston is bustling with immigrants like Adalia. But she has a secret: her light skin belies that she is part black and a runaway slave from Barbados. She lives in terror that her owner will come looking for her. Instead Morgan, the son of a plantation owner, finds her. He is handsome, charming, bored—and enamored of t...more

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Jul 08, 2012 Deborha Mitchell rated it 5 of 5 stars

I just finished reading Veil of Pearls by MaryLu Tyndall. I was swept away from the very first page! MaryLu has a way of bringing her characters to life. As I read this book, I found myself being transported to the year 1811. The details are so vivid, that you can actually picture the people, places and events. This is a very inspiring story about a young slave girl, who finds her freedom, yet she is not completely free. She finds herself in a world she’s never experienced before, one she only d...more

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Jul 03, 2012 The Wordsmith Journal Magazine rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: christian-fiction, historical-fiction

Okay, this book was completely amazing from start to finish. In fact, of the eight novels of Marylu Tyndall's that I've read, this is my absolute favorite. Not only was there plenty of realism and romance, but there were a lot of insightful comments about faith, slavery, surrendering to God, the meaninglessness of worldly riches, etc. But you could also see how difficult it was for some of the characters to forsake the physical comforts in life.

The lure of wealth is powerful and can snag the hea...more Okay, this book was completely amazing from start to finish. In fact, of the eight novels of Marylu Tyndall's that I've read, this is my absolute favorite. Not only was there plenty of realism and romance, but there were a lot of insightful comments about faith, slavery, surrendering to God, the meaninglessness of worldly riches, etc. But you could also see how difficult it was for some of the characters to forsake the physical comforts in life.

The lure of wealth is powerful and can snag the hearts' of even the best of people. Not to mention that when you have things of the world filling your heart, there is no room for a close relationship with God. But like a true Gentleman, God steps back and waits for us to see that we miss Him and need Him in our lives. Sometimes He sends a messenger to us, or He speaks in that still, small voice. There were so many deep and profound spiritual truths in this story I could go on and on. This story totally wow'd me.

I am a sucker for a good historical romance as well. Not only does the author deliver a satisfying read with plenty of historical content to bring you to another time and place, but she skillfully shows how love can develop and grow in the most unlikely situations, and how this can change a person's world, literally. I was feeling the depth of their love in this book and it was beautiful to experience with them. Not to mention those kisses they shared were heart-melting and powerfully written. The self-sacrifice of the heroine really moved my heart as well. More than once I got that familiar lump in my throat and wanted to sigh.

I was totally enraptured by the story and fell in love with the characters. One of the points I really loved in this story was how manipulating to win a man's heart often drives him further away. At least that's true if he is a good man. This is especially true if the person doing the manipulating has no concern for those she hurts. That true beauty coming from the inside of a person was a powerful theme in this book. It was evident by a woman's actions, not just her outward appearance.

The authors conclusion at the end was pretty profound and I loved it! I also loved how the author showed that loving the unlovely as Christ loves us tends to confound evil people. It may not make them change, but it does make an impact on them.

Anyway, the romance was scorching hot (for an inspirational novel) because I felt their passion for life and for each other. That was very well done. I truly cared about what happened to them. And true to the author's style, she kept me hanging on to the end. I didn't skim a single page of this book, but savored it all. I highly recommend it.

The Wordsmith Journal strives to guide readers to books of personal interest, with the understanding and respect that what appeals to some may not appeal to others. Therefore we attempt to keep our reviews focused on content, genre and style. The rating is necessary to make use of Goodreads and Amazon. It reflects the reviewer’s own level of enjoyment, but the review is intended to be informative for the benefit of all readers.(less)

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Jul 02, 2012 Micah rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: on-my-bookshelf

It must be a fantastic book, because I read the whole thing in less than a day, and 70% of it in the swimming pool (which went well until I was floating on my back and let out my breath and nearly doused the book...lol). I loved it. I've heard it said that MaryLu's published said this was her best yet, and I agree with that because of the dynamics in it and the social justice aspect (but I still think The Raven Saint is her very best of the best for it's characters!!!). The book was intriguing,...more

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Jul 02, 2012 Iola rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, historical-romance, christian-fiction, kindle, netgalley

The plot and writing style of Veil of Pearls reminds me of authors such as Jamie Carie, Linda Chaikin and Lori Wick, so I’m sure that fans of these authors will love this book.

Unfortunately, I didn’t. I wanted to, but I didn’t.

Veil of Pearls heaps formula upon platitude upon cliché – Adelia, the beautiful young girl, orphaned and forced into slavery yet with a faith in God and a strong desire to make her world a better place, escaping and meeting Morgan, the rich young man who doesn't want to fu...more The plot and writing style of Veil of Pearls reminds me of authors such as Jamie Carie, Linda Chaikin and Lori Wick, so I’m sure that fans of these authors will love this book.

Unfortunately, I didn’t. I wanted to, but I didn’t.

Veil of Pearls heaps formula upon platitude upon cliché – Adelia, the beautiful young girl, orphaned and forced into slavery yet with a faith in God and a strong desire to make her world a better place, escaping and meeting Morgan, the rich young man who doesn't want to fulfil the destiny his father has dictated. He is intrigued by the girl, who initially rebuffs him because she detests everything he stands for, then accepts his invitations with a view to missionary dating (1811 style), in the hope that she can reform the rake and convert him to Christianity. Veil of Pearls also features Emerald, the Other Woman with insides “splattered … the color of her name”, and Doctor Langston Willaby, the misguided protector, who hides mail from Morgan to Adelia. How very original.

Adalia is one quarter Negro, and pale-skinned enough to pass as white, yet identifies strongly with 'her people' (whether this is because of her racial background or her seven years as a slave is unclear). It got old quickly, because it seemed that every reference to her background was merely an excuse to include yet another sermonette on the evils of slavery or the sufferings of the poor Negros. There were also allusions to Morgan, the poor little rich boy, being a slave to the expectations of the rich, which I found rather distasteful in the light of actual slavery, both in the past and in the present day.

I got annoyed by the anachronisms, factual errors and some very strange uses of the English language, all of which served to pull me further out of a story that I was finding it hard to get in to in the first place. There was also a fair sprinkling of cringe-worthy words and phrases, including 'she spat the words' and ‘he ground out’. I can only conclude that I’ve grown out of this kind of writing.

Thanks to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.(less)

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Jun 25, 2012 Andrea rated it 4 of 5 stars

Veil of Pearls is about a runaway slave that flees Barbados to Charleston, South Carolina. Adalia is a quarter negro, and her light skin is part of what allows her to remain free when she escapes. Before her parents died and she was enslaved, her mother taught her how to heal with herbs, and she is able to find work in Charleston healing slaves and assisting a doctor.

Adalia's beauty catches the eye of a Morgan Rutledge, son of a wealthy Charleston plantation owner. She initially spurns his advan...more

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Jun 24, 2012 Kristi rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: religious, romance

A wonderful book I could not put down. This is on the top of my list of romance books I must have in my personal library. I enjoyed being able to read about the emotional turmoil and struggle between two characters and be pulled into the relationship and still have it be a clean romance book.

Adalia is a very deep-rooted Christian woman and I was constantly impressed with her faith. Yet, she too went through a spiritual growth in the novel that I was deeply impressed with since we all struggle w...more

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Jun 18, 2012 Rambling Readers rated it 4 of 5 stars

In her latest novel, Veil of Pearls, MaryLu Tyndall's niche for historical, maritime novels takes readers to Charleston, South Carolina. City and plantation life take the forefront in the plot, but in true Tyndall-style, several pivotal scenes take place on ships. There is nothing like a bit of maritime combat to get your pulse racing. Such action-filled scenes initially drew me to Tyndall's novels, and I have come to expect high seas adventure in her writing. Veil of Pearls offered that tradema...more In her latest novel, Veil of Pearls, MaryLu Tyndall's niche for historical, maritime novels takes readers to Charleston, South Carolina. City and plantation life take the forefront in the plot, but in true Tyndall-style, several pivotal scenes take place on ships. There is nothing like a bit of maritime combat to get your pulse racing. Such action-filled scenes initially drew me to Tyndall's novels, and I have come to expect high seas adventure in her writing. Veil of Pearls offered that trademark element as a backdrop, allowing the central focus of slavery in various forms to take precedence. The result is a novel that gives the reader the best of both worlds - adventure and emotional depth. And, of course, a multi-dimensional love story is integrated within the pages.

Through Adalia's story, Tyndall reveals the tragedy of slavery and judgement. As a slave, Adalia was shackled physically. As a escaped slave, she encounters shackles that are invisible but just as binding. Various forms of slavery are revealed throughout the progression of the story and manifest themselves as violence, hatred, jealousy, fear, and vanity. Tyndall uses the theme of slavery to convey a message of faith and ultimate freedom. The challenges that Adalia and Morgan confront from society and with each other keep the plot flowing steadily until the conclusion. I can't fail to mention the cameo appearances of the adorable cat, M, who brings a touch of mischief and charm to the novel.

I always enjoy epilogues at the end of a good book, but they rarely stand-out. The "Author's Afterwords" at the end of Veil of Pearls is actually one of my favorite parts of the novel. Like any strong epilogue, it ties up the loose ends with a glimpse into the future lives of the main characters. This afterword has a Jane Austen quality that drew me in and made a lasting impression. It is a bright and very satisfying ending to a memorable novel.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Books through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” (less)

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Jun 11, 2012 Arlena rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 5-stars, ebooks, excellent-book, fiction-reviews, fiction, historical, my-reviews, romance

Author: MaryLu Tyndall
Published by: Barbour Books
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:
"Veil of Pearls" by MaryLu Tyndall was a good read. I was a little hesitate with the title dealing with slavery in the 1800's but I am glad to did continued reading ..because in the end I felt the novel was a excellent and well written novel. Be ready for a lots twist and turns all the way till the end. Truly Ms. Tyndall was able to really help the reader unders...more Author: MaryLu Tyndall
Published by: Barbour Books
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 5
Blog Review For: GMTA
Review:
"Veil of Pearls" by MaryLu Tyndall was a good read. I was a little hesitate with the title dealing with slavery in the 1800's but I am glad to did continued reading ..because in the end I felt the novel was a excellent and well written novel. Be ready for a lots twist and turns all the way till the end. Truly Ms. Tyndall was able to really help the reader understand what this young woman named Althea had gone through. Leaving Barbados from a sugar slavery plantation and the cruel... Sir Walter Miles to Charleston, South Carolina...to where Athea is able to reinvent herself by changing her name to Adalia...working in an local orphanage as a herb healer ....then to becoming a assist to Doctor Willaby. Now Adalia was able to take care of local 'Negros' that needed help especially the slaves on the plantations. Athea was so thankful to God to now have her freedom.

How was Adalia able to do all of this? Well, ...... Adalia was very light-skinned and no one was able to detect that she was negro or a runaway slave....Can you believe that Adalia catches the eye of one young man who was from one of the most wealthy families in Charleston. Now, how these two people were to come together turns out to be a very interesting story. There relationship was able to grew into a true love and in the end both Adalia and Morgan would be able to give these worries to God. Now I will stop at this point because I don't want to give any more away...just pick up "Veil of Pearls" and see how Adalia and Morgan are brought through all of this....Will Morgan start believing in God? What is going on with Emerald and Dr. Willsby? What is so special about Adalia's pearls?

The characters were really very interesting....Althea (Adalia), Sir Walter Miles, Captain Faraday, Dr. Willaby, Mrs, Charlotte, The Rutledges.... Franklin, mom, Morgan, Hadley.... and Lizzie .... Emerald, Caroline, Captain Kane Bristow, Aniston Mulberry, Joseph Drayton, Lord Demmings, Rabian Saville, Joy, Mayor Calla and some I have left for you to find out who they are.

"Veil of Pearls" was a real historical love story that you will get caught up in ... not being able to put the novel down until you are finished.... the ending was wonderful and I would recommend this novel as a good read.

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Apr 08, 2012 Eustacia Tan rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: netgalley

Since classes only start on Monday, we've been exploring a little, getting our bank accounts and stuff. After one very long train ride to Akihabara, where I didn't bring anything to read, I learnt my lesson and started my old habit of carrying around 1 book + the iPad. So, I managed to finish another book -cheers-; it's called "Veil of Pearls".

Veil of Pearls actually looks at the topic of slavery and discrimination. The protagonist Adalia/Alethea is one-quarter black, so while she looks white, s...more Since classes only start on Monday, we've been exploring a little, getting our bank accounts and stuff. After one very long train ride to Akihabara, where I didn't bring anything to read, I learnt my lesson and started my old habit of carrying around 1 book + the iPad. So, I managed to finish another book -cheers-; it's called "Veil of Pearls".

Veil of Pearls actually looks at the topic of slavery and discrimination. The protagonist Adalia/Alethea is one-quarter black, so while she looks white, she is treated like a slave by the man who stole her away - Sir Walter. But she manages to escape and since she looks white, she gets a job as a doctor's assistant while catching the attention of the youngest son of one of the most prominent families in town - Morgan.

While most of the harsh realities of slavery are sheltered (Adalia is a house slave and the whipping is not mentioned in great detail), the book manages to convey the inferiority that discrimination and slavery bring. One instant is when Adalia is out walking with her friend/maid Joy, who is obviously black, and pulls her behind her (they were walking side by side before) when people she knows approaches. This is because she wants to be accepted in their eyes, although she professes not to like the slave-owning elite of society.

The romance plot of the book is actually really sweet and quite complex. Apart from the whole race issue, both Morgan and Adalia struggle with their own personal issues, be it family or fear of slavery. What I enjoyed reading was how in the end, both of them gave up their issues to God, with Adalia re-affirming her love for God and Morgan finally coming to know Him.

The only thing I didn't really understand was the role of the man in white. I'm guessing he functions as some sort of externalised conscience, but for some reason, it took me quite some time to grasp that fact, even though I should know that white symbolises purity.

All in all, this is a really sweet historical romance book that isn't merely about the relationship.

Disclaimer: I got this book from NetGalley in exchange for a free and honest review.

(First posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile)(less)

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Sep 04, 2012 Maria Haile rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book was exquisite! It was a tender account of a frightening time in history-the passing of a light quadroon from the Barbados in the white society of Charleston.Adalia Winston is an escaped slave from the Caribbean who has lost her parents in a hurricane and her baby sister to the harsh realities of slavery.Her ability to heal people with herbs and her nursing enable her to find work, a home and acceptance from a local docter. Her faith in God serves as her strength when she meets handsome...more

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Aug 18, 2012 Tabitha rated it 5 of 5 stars

Not only did I enjoy this book, but I found myself relating so much to the main character. She escaped bondage only to find herself in another form of bondage: hiding her identify behind a facade. The struggles she faces emanate from this masquerade; however, the facade teaches her lessons and she comes to appreciate who she truly is and the gifts God gave her (to heal). With her renewed trust in the Lord and the healing taken place in her heart, the Lord blessed her with her heart's desires in...more

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Aug 11, 2012 Funmbi rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance-erotica

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I was happy to receive a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.
As soon as I read the summary, I was instantly intrigued. I'm pleased to say Tyndall does not disappoint. Veil of Pearls meets all my expectations: beautifully written with descriptive and evocative language; a gripping, compelling plot filled with action and adventure; strong characters, some of who we love and others we simply love to hate. This book is thoroughly interesting. Truly, I enjoy this story so much, I coul...more

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Oct 09, 2012 Jennifer Westall rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: challenge-impaired-group

If you enjoy traditional Christian fiction, then you'll probably love this book. The main character, Adalia, is a fine example of good Christian who faces hardship with a good Christian attitude. She only stumbles in her desire to be accepted by "the world," and her virtue remains solidly in tact. The male protagonist, Morgan, is also a fine example of a roguish non-believer inspired by the virtuous Adalia to examine his life and accept the error of his ways. The writing is good, though it is fr...more

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Aug 18, 2012 My Book Addiction and More MBA rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: christain-historical-romance, slavery, south-carolina

VEIL OF PEARLS by MaryLu Tyndall is an amazing christian historical romance set in 1811 Charleston,South Carolina. Another great story from this author. You can't out run your past but you can learn to accept the past and move forward. Follow Adalia Winston and Morgan Ruteledge as they transverse though high society and a dark secret that could tear them apart. "Veil of Pearls" characters and story will grab your heart and soul. With racial differences, slavery,high society, romance,healing,forg...more

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Aug 04, 2012 Glenajo rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: christian, historical-romance

Kidnapped into slavery on the death of her parents, Adalia Winston escapes of Charleston, a city full of slaves supporting the Southern lifestyle. Fair skinned Adalia fears discovery, not just from her slave master, but also the fact that she is one quarter black. Morgan Rutledge is the son of a prominent family who becomes enamored with Adalia on sight. Adelia finally agrees to attend a party with Morgan, and slowly Adalia is accepted into society. She begins to believe that she can live in thi...more

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Jul 30, 2012 Victor Gentile rated it 5 of 5 stars

I had the privilege of interviewing M. L. Tyndall, on our radio show “Kingdom Highlights”, for her new book, “Veil of Pearls” published by Barbour.

From the back cover: She thought she could outrun her past.

It is 1811, and the prosperous port city of Charleston is bustling with plantation owners, slaves and immigrants. Immigrants such as the raven-haired Adalia Winston. But Adalia has a secret: her light-skin belies that she is part black and a runaway slave from Barbados. Skilled in herbal remed...more I had the privilege of interviewing M. L. Tyndall, on our radio show “Kingdom Highlights”, for her new book, “Veil of Pearls” published by Barbour.

From the back cover: She thought she could outrun her past.

It is 1811, and the prosperous port city of Charleston is bustling with plantation owners, slaves and immigrants. Immigrants such as the raven-haired Adalia Winston. But Adalia has a secret: her light-skin belies that she is part black and a runaway slave from Barbados. Skilled in herbal remedies, Adalia finds employment with a local doctor and settles into a quiet life, thankful for her freedom but still fearful that her owner will find her.

Born into one of Charleston’s prominent families, Morgan Rutledge is handsome, bored–and enamored of the beautiful Adalia, who spurns his advances. Morgan’s persistence, however, finally winds, and Adalia is swept into the glamorous world of Charleston high society.

But Adalia’s new life comes at a high price–that of denying her heritage and her zeal for God. How far is she willing to go to win the heart of the man she loves? And when her secret is revealed, will that love be enough, or will the truth ruin Morgan and send Adalia back into slavery?

I have been reading Ms. Tyndall’s books for year now and, I have to say they are all great but “Veil of Pearls” is her best work yet. Adalia has escaped Barbados and her vile master and found freedom in Charleston. Well sort of. See she is terrified that she will be found out that she is a runaway and part black which means white society wants no part of her. Then there is Morgan who falls in love with her but has no clue as to her race. “Veil of Pearls has some great themes. There are the themes of slavery, racism and rules of society. There is also the theme of who do we love, the individual or the race of the individual? Charleston society provides an allegory for the world with its rules . There are those that will abide by those rules and never leave it, those that dislike the rules but do nothing about them and those that dislike the rules and leave. That is also true about the world and salvation; there are those that will never accept and those that accept and are no longer part of that system.

Once again Ms. Tyndall has crafted really strong characters that live and breathe and make us care and root for them. Both Adalia and Morgan are emotionally deeply wounded individuals who can only heal by the grace of God and by their relationship with each other. Neither one of them can go forward and embrace not only their future but the destiny that God has planned for them until they can turn over their deep-seated hurts to God for their healing. Fear is another theme in this book as both of them have fear that they carry from traumatic events in their respective childhoods that they have to deal with in order to save the others.

“Veil of Pearls” is filled with history. Ms. Tyndall knows how to craft a great story filled with action, suspense and wonderful romance. Don’t start this book late at night because it will be very difficult to put it down or stop thinking about it. I recommend this book highly and am greatly looking forward to the next new series from Ms. Tyndall.

If you missed the interview for “Veil of Pearls” and would like to listen to it and/or would like to hear the previous interviews where we discussed Ms. Tyndall’s previous two series and/or would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.

To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Barbour Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”(less)

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Oct 03, 2012 Linda rated it 2 of 5 stars

This book started out with a bang...I was hooked. A slave in Barbardos who looks white who manages to escape from her evil captor's plantation and manages to cross the ocean in a ship to Charleston! WOW. I had high hopes and dug in with gusto. However, the book quickly became tedious, long winded and predictable. Is this considered to be Christian Fiction? There are so many references to the Lord and God and the man in white who shows up to guide Althea, if you are not Christian, you might find...more

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Dec 16, 2012 Wanda rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, historical-romance, best-read-2012

Morgan and Adalia - the most ill suited, unlikely couple in Charleston. Perhaps they were brought together in order for Adalia to open Morgan's eyes to the horrors of slavery, or was it a romance that bloomed where seeds should not have been sown?

Was Adalia being deceptive about her heritage or was it because she had become familiar in a society whose perverted ideas said the negroes were worthless? She truly felt like she was intruding upon a dream being with Morgan. It was like a fairy tale -...more

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Jul 17, 2012 Nancy M. rated it 5 of 5 stars

Veil of Pearls by MaryLu Tyndall is set in the 1800s and begins with our heroine, Adalia, running for her life and her freedom in the Caribbean. You see Adalia is a slave who wants to start her life fresh in America. Morgan is a wealthy plantation owner's son who finds Adalia fascinating and tries desperately to convince her to let him court her. Adalia, however, only wants to help others and finds Morgan's advances bothersome.

MaryLu really knows how to draw you into a story. From the very begi...more

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