Miranda Atchley's Blog, page 16

A Grace-Filled Conclusion to a Great Series | Review: The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey by Carolyn Miller

The Dishonorable Miss DeLanceyby Carolyn Miller
Tainted by scandal and forced to leave London for the quieter Brighton countryside, the Honorable Miss Clara DeLancey is a shadow of her former society self. She's lost the man she loved to another and, in a culture that has no patience for self-pity, is struggling with depression. A chance encounter brings her a healing friendship with the sisters of an injured naval captain. But Clara's society mama is appalled at the new company she's keeping.

Captain Benjamin Kemsley is not looking for a wife. But his gallant spirit won't let him ignore the penniless viscount's daughter--not when she so obviously needs assistance to keep moving forward from day to day. Can he protect his heart and still keep her safe?

When they're pushed into the highest echelons of society at the Prince Regent's Brighton Pavilion, this mismatched couple must decide if family honor is more important than their hopes. Can they right the wrongs of the past and find future happiness together--without finances, family support, or royal favor?

The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey is full of the captivating, flawed characters, fascinating historical details, and masterful writing that Carolyn Miller's fans have come to know in The Elusive Miss Ellison and The Captivating Lady Charlotte. If you love Lori Wick, Georgette Heyer, and other clean, wholesome Regency romance, you'll love this third book in the Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace series.

Another great novel from Carolyn Miller! I must admit, I was a little leery of this book knowing the heroine was going to be Clara DeLancey. After all, she was not portrayed in a flattering light in the first two books in the series. But I wound up feeling really sorry for Clara. Like many other parents in early 19th century England, Lord and Lady Winpoole were set on finding the most advantageous match for Clara. Of course that led to no good and she was just miserable. I loved that Clara found friends in Matilda and Tessa. They were really good for her and taught her important things that she didn’t learn at home. I was so happy to see Clara make a decision of faith. And Ben was a really good hero. He was sweet to Clara and stood up for her when her family wouldn’t.
One thing that I love about this series is the message of grace and forgiveness. It’s a beautiful message and is portrayed throughout the series. And while Lord and Lady Winpoole did get on my nerves, I was glad to see them change some of their opinions as the book went along. They might not have become parents of the year, but at least they were able to see the light on some things.
Overall, The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey was a great conclusion to this portion of the Regency Brides series. Can’t wait for the A Legacy of Hope portion!

I give this book 4 out 5 stars.

First Line Fridays | The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey

I’ve been seeing First Line Fridays a lot lately, and it seems like a fun thing to participate in. It’s hosted by Hoarding Books and you simply feature the first line in the book you’re currently reading.
The book I’m currently reading is The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey . Here’s the first line.
The honorable Miss Clara DeLacney stood atop the chalky cliffs. Above her, heavy clouds menaced the moon, revealing then concealing the scene below. At her feet glowed the lantern borrowed for tonight’s escape, while far beneath, the English Chanel churned white and deadly. Wind whipped clothes around her body, like the despair that had tugged for months, begging release.
The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey is the final book in Carolyn Miller’s Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace series. I’ve been enjoying it thus far. I really like that this first paragraph matches the book’s cover (which is stunning.) Can’t wait to read the rest of this book!
So what are you reading? I’d love to hear about it and read the first line.

-Miranda Atchley

January in Reveiw

This month hasn’t been a terribly exciting one, though I have made progress with my work in progress. I’m excited to share this progress with you as soon as more details come about. I might not have blogged a ton this month, but I’m okay with what I did get posted.
Favorite Posts
A Marvelous WWI Era Novel and New Favorite | Review: AName Unknown by Roseanna M. White
Mansfield Park Read-Along Discussion #2
I’ve gotten a lot of reading in this month. I participated in the Mansfield ParkRead-Along, and had a blast. I also read some good Christian historical fiction. My favorite book from this month was A Name Unknown. Such a great read!
Books Read
Lady Catherine, The Earl, and The Real Downton Abbey Through Waters Deep A Passion Most Pure A Heart Most Certain Passport to Great Britain Anon, Sir, Anon Fairchild’s Lady A Hero’s Promise Thank you for spending time here this month. I’m honored to that you’ve chosen to read my blog. I hope you’ll visit again soon for more bookish fun!

-Miranda Atchley

Mansfield Park Read-Along Conclusion

It’s the final week of the Mansfield Park Read- Along. Can you believe it? It’s been fun reading the book and discussing it with you guys. Thanks so much to Amber for hosting it!
General Impressions
And Edmund finally comes to his senses. Too bad he didn’t do so sooner. Even though I’m glad that he did marry Fanny, I have to admit that the whole thing seems rather… abrupt.
Discussion Questions
Which character’s growth or consequences brought you (as described in the last chapter) brought you the most satisfaction?I would probably say Edmund. I’m glad that he was finally able to see that Mary Crawford was not a good match for him and that Fanny was, though the way it happened was
And so we close the book on the Mansfield Park Read-Along. It’s been great fun! I can’t wait for the next one.
-Miranda Atchley

A Marvelous WWI Era Novel and A New Favorite | Review: A Name Unknown by Roseanna M. White

About The Book
Rosemary Gresham has no family beyond the band of former urchins who helped her survive as a girl in the mean streets of London. Grown now, they are no longer pickpockets-­­ instead they focus on high value items and have learned how to blend into upper-class society. Rosemary is beginning to question whether she can continue in this life when she’s offered the challenge of a life time- determine whether a certain wealthy gentleman is loyal to Britain or Germany. After all how does one still a family’s history, their very name?
As Europe moves ever closer to World War I, rumors swirl around Peter Holstein. Awkward and solitary but with access to the king, many fear his influence. But Peter can’t help his German last name and wants to prove his loyalty to the Crown- so he can go back to anonymously writing a series of popular adventure novels. When Rosemary shows up on his doorstep pretending to be a well-credentialed historian, Peter believes she’s the right person to help him dig through his family’s past.
When danger and suspicion continue to mount, both realize they’re in a race against time to discover the truth- about Peter’s past and about the undeniable attraction kindling between them.
My Thoughts
I really loved this book. It was just one of those books that I never want to end. I love the setting; the 1910s is my favorite time period. I loved the dual place settings between London and Cornwall. Everything in Cornwall sounded so beautiful. But the characters were the best part of the book. I loved Rosemary; she was the definition of a spitfire. I won’t give away any spoilers, but I was so happy for her and the decisions she made toward the end of the book. And Peter was a great hero. He was a nice guy through and through and I really liked reading about his writing process. The supporting cast of characters was great, too.
Throughout the book, there are elements of mystery that really keep you guessing until the end. And I love the messages of faith and hope portrayed throughout the book. It all made for a book that I consider a new favorite.
A Name Unknownwas a wonderful book. Fans of Christian historical fiction will not want to miss this book! I can’t wait to read A Song Unheard!

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

Mansfield Park Read-Along Discussion #3

Hi readers and friends! It’s the third week of the Mansfield Park Read-Along. Amber has written some great questions for us, and I’m looking forward to reading your thoughts on this week’s chapters.
Favorite Quotes
“Sir Thomas, indeed was, by this time, not very far from classing Mrs. Norris as one of those well-meaning people who are always doing mistaken and very disagreeable things.”
General Impressions
Henry Crawford is still a snake. And I’m really getting frustrated that no one except for Fanny is able to see it. I know that he’s charming and puts on a good show, but I would think that they would get some inkling that he’s bad news. Grr! I’m just so ready for him to hit the road and stop playing with Fanny’s heart. If nothing else, I’m glad that Edmund sees that Fanny is upset by Henry Crawford’s plans, even though he doesn’t know the reason why. And I must say; I am so glad that Fanny has stood her ground. Everyone has been putting pressure on her to accept Henry’s proposal, questioning why she wouldn’t want to. But she hasn’t swayed, and I am glad of that.
Discussion Questions
1: Which character do you feel most strongly about at this point- in either a good or disappointing way? What makes that character especially stand out to you?Henry Crawford, of course! He’s just so sneaky. He knows had to really put on the charm and distract people from his devious plans.
2: If you were in attendance at the ball, how would you occupy your time? Would you dance the night away, or would you prefer observation and conversation?I would definitely prefer observation and conversation. I am not a dancer. Haha! I would probably be the person in the corner reading a book (or thinking about reading if I weren’t allowed to have one with me).
3: What advice would you give Fanny in handling Mr. Crawford’s pursuit?Be very careful. We’ve seen what he’s done to Maria and Julia, and so Fanny needs to be very careful around him.
I can’t believe that we’re starting the final week of the Mansfield Park Read-Along. This book might have started out slow, but it’s certainly picked! I’m excited to see how the book ends and discussing it all with you guys.

-Miranda Atchley

A Delightful English Mystery | Anon, Sir, Anon by Rachel Heffington

Anon, Sir, Anon by Rachel Heffington
About The Book
The 12:55 out of Darlington brought more than Orville Farnham’s niece; murder was passenger.
In coming to Whistlecreig, Genevieve Langley expected to find an ailing uncle in need of gentle care. In reality, her charge is a cantankerous Shakespearean actor with a penchant for fencing and an affinity for placing impossible bets. When a body shows up in a field near Whistlecreig Manor and Vivi is the only one to recognize the victim, she is unceremoniously baptized into the art of crime-solving: a field in which first impressions are seldom lasting and personal interest knocks at the front door.
Set against the russet backdrop of a Northamptonshire fog, Anon, Sir, Anon cuts a cozy path into a chilling crime. 
My Thoughts
Anon, Sir, Anonis a delightful English mystery. I love the setting of the book and I loved Vivi and Farnham. Both were endearing characters. While they were somewhat thrown together by their mutual meddlesome family, they soon come to love and appreciate one another. The style of writing is another plus for this book. Heffington beautifully weaves in historical references throughout the novel, and her 1930s British dialogue is nearly flawless. The witty conversations make for a quick read that you won’t want to end. I must admit that I’m not up on all the Shakespeare references, though this book makes me want to read his works even more than I previously did. The mystery kept me guessing and I was shocked by the outcome.
Clearly, I’m a fan of Anon, Sir, Anon. If you love historical mysteries, definitely give this one a try. I must needs more Vivi and Farnham!

I give this book 4 out of 5 stars. 

Mansfield Park Read-Along Week #2

It’s the second week of the Mansfield ParkRead-Along, hosted by Amber. This week, things have really started to pick up. Lots of things have taken place and we’ve gotten to know the characters better. I’m excited to discuss these chapters, so let’s get to it!
Favorite Quotes
“Henry Crawford had destroyed her happiness, but he should not know that he had done it; he should not destroy her appearance, her prosperity, too.”
“And how much more their tenderhearted cousin who wandered about the house and thought of them, and felt for them, with a degree of affectionate regret which they had never done much to deserve.”
General Impressions
Henry Crawford is evil. Seriously, he’s definitely in the ranks of John Thorpe, Whickham, and Willoughby. Actually, he may be worse. Grr! He is just awful. Okay, enough about him. I’m really starting to love Fanny and can see why Jane Austen was so endeared to her. She’s nice and sweet and I just feel so sorry for her being stuck with such self-centered people. Edmund still has me conflicted. At times he seems like a nice guy and he does look out for Fanny, but other times I want to shake him because of this thing with Miss Crawford. Like, are you blind, Edmund!?
It is nice to see Fanny reunited with her brother. They seem to get along well, and it’s good for them to have to visit each other.
Discussion Questions
1: If you were one of Maria’s parents, what might you have said to her before her wedding?This is a tough question. On one hand, the further she is from Mr. Crawford, the better. But on the other hand, if she doesn’t love Mr. Rushworth, she’s just going to make everyone miserable.
2: What are your thoughts on the friendship between Fanny and Miss Crawford? What would you recommend to improve their relationship?I think that Miss Crawford is only interested in befriending Fanny because she’s bored. And I think Fanny only “befriends” Miss Crawford to be nice. If I were meeting these two in person, I would warn Fanny to be careful with Miss Crawford, and I would tell Miss Crawford to adjust her attitude.
3: Consider Mr. Crawford’s sudden interest in Fanny or Edmund’s admiration of Miss Crawford. What makes them so attractive to these guys? What would you consider to be valid reasons for falling in love?Well, in my attempt to put this as delicately as possible, I think Mr. Crawford is attracted to every woman, no matter what, and simply wants to them to fall at his feet wherever he goes. As for explaining why Edmund is attracted to Miss Crawford, that befuddles me. I don’t get why Edmund would “fall in love” with someone like Miss Crawford. Maybe it’s her looks? Whatever the case, she isn’t a good match for him and not what I’d expect a 19th century clergyman’s wife to be.
Thanks so much for stopping by today! I’m excited to read the rest of the book and discuss with you guys. Until then…

-Miranda Atchley

Lately 1.13.2018

Hello readers and friends! I hope you’re all doing well. Things have been pretty quiet around here. The year started off as one of the coldest I can remember. We had a few flakes of snow, but not enough to cover the ground. In the midst of the frigid winter, I’ve been mostly staying inside reading and doing some writing. Here’s what that has consisted of.
Writing
I’m still working on the next book in The Abi Hensley Series . It doesn’t have a title yet, though I am making progress. Of course, there are some days when I have more trouble with, but that’s simply the way it goes sometimes.
Reading
Mansfield Park! It’s so fun to read in a group. I’ve read a few other historical novels, too. For my Goodreads challenge, I made a goal to read 100 books this year. What about you? How many books do you want to read this year?
  Thank you for stopping by today. I appreciate your visit! I hope you all have a great year.

-Miranda Atchley

Mansfield Park Read-Along Discussion #1

Hey readers and friends! Today I present you with my contribution the first discussion of the Mansfield Park Read-Along, hosted by Amber.
General Impressions
I have to admit, this one is starting out a little slow for me. I don’t dislike the book at all, it just doesn’t catch my attention quite the way some of Austen’s other novels do. I do like Fanny. She is quiet and we haven’t heard a ton from her so far, but according to what we have heard, she seems sweet. The Bertrams on the other hand…. Lordy! They’re something else. I think Edmund seems all right. He’s not a bad sort, but not my favorite hero. I really don’t care for Maria or Julia. They are rather spoiled. Their mother and father are awful. And the Crawfords. Henry does annoy me, as does Mary. They certainly think a lot of themselves!
Discussion Questions
Would you consider the Bertram family taking Fanny to be a kindness in the long run? If so, why? If not, could it have been a kindness if they approached things differently?I’m sort of torn on this question. I almost think that perhaps it was kind for them to take Fanny in. I can remember from the first time I read this novel that the Price home is not a happy one. Yet the Bertrams are not a very happy family, either.
Imagine you had joined the group on their Sotherton trip which part of the trip would you have most enjoyed? Would we find you wondering the halls or meandering through the wilderness?Probably a bit of both. It seems like a neat place. I would want to see the inside of the house as well as the grounds surrounding it.
Thanks for stopping by today! I’m looking forward to reading the rest of Mansfield Parkand our future discussions.

-Miranda Atchley