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Found Things #3
The Garden of Promises and Lies
The third installment of a bewitching series brimming with charm and charisma that will make fans of Outlander rejoice! (Woman's World Magazine).
New York Times bestselling author Paula Brackston's second novel in the Found Things series, Secrets of the Chocolate House, was called a time-swapping romance [that] will please fans of Alice Hoffman (Publishers Weekly). Now, Brackston returns to the Found Things series with a third book, The Garden of Promises and Lies.
As the bustle of the winter holidays in the Little Shop of Found Things gives way to spring, Xanthe is left to reflect on the strange events of the past year. While she's tried to keep her time-traveling talents a secret from those close to her, she is forced to take responsibility for having inadvertently transported the dangerous Benedict Fairfax to her own time. Xanthe comes to see that she must use her skills as a Spinner if she and Flora are ever to be safe, and turns to the Spinners book for help.
It is then that a beautiful antique wedding dress sings to her. Realizing the dress and her adversary are connected in some way, she answers the call. She finds herself in Bradford-on-Avon in 1815, as if she has stepped into a Jane Austen story.
Now in Xanthe's time, Fairfax is threatening Xanthe into helping him with his evil doings, and demonstrates all too clearly how much damage he is capable of causing. With Fairfax growing ever more powerful, Xanthe enlists the help of her boyfriend Liam, taking him back in time with her. It is a decision that might just ensure she prevails over her foe, but only by putting her life--and his--on the line.
New York Times bestselling author Paula Brackston's second novel in the Found Things series, Secrets of the Chocolate House, was called a time-swapping romance [that] will please fans of Alice Hoffman (Publishers Weekly). Now, Brackston returns to the Found Things series with a third book, The Garden of Promises and Lies.
As the bustle of the winter holidays in the Little Shop of Found Things gives way to spring, Xanthe is left to reflect on the strange events of the past year. While she's tried to keep her time-traveling talents a secret from those close to her, she is forced to take responsibility for having inadvertently transported the dangerous Benedict Fairfax to her own time. Xanthe comes to see that she must use her skills as a Spinner if she and Flora are ever to be safe, and turns to the Spinners book for help.
It is then that a beautiful antique wedding dress sings to her. Realizing the dress and her adversary are connected in some way, she answers the call. She finds herself in Bradford-on-Avon in 1815, as if she has stepped into a Jane Austen story.
Now in Xanthe's time, Fairfax is threatening Xanthe into helping him with his evil doings, and demonstrates all too clearly how much damage he is capable of causing. With Fairfax growing ever more powerful, Xanthe enlists the help of her boyfriend Liam, taking him back in time with her. It is a decision that might just ensure she prevails over her foe, but only by putting her life--and his--on the line.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published December 15, 2020
743 people are currently reading
5882 people want to read
About the author
Paula Brackston
26 books5,263 followersPaula Brackston (aka PJ Brackston)is the New York Times bestselling author of The Witch's Daughter, The Winter Witch, and The Midnight Witch(2014).
Paula has an MA in Creative Writing from Lancaster University, and is a Visiting Lecturer for the University of Wales, Newport. In 2007 Paula was short listed in the Creme de la Crime search for new writers. In 2010 her book 'Nutters' (writing as PJ Davy) was short listed for the Mind Book Award, and she was selected by the BBC under their New Welsh Writers scheme.
https://www.youtube.com/c/PaulaBracks...
Paula lives in Wales with her partner and their two children.
Paula has an MA in Creative Writing from Lancaster University, and is a Visiting Lecturer for the University of Wales, Newport. In 2007 Paula was short listed in the Creme de la Crime search for new writers. In 2010 her book 'Nutters' (writing as PJ Davy) was short listed for the Mind Book Award, and she was selected by the BBC under their New Welsh Writers scheme.
https://www.youtube.com/c/PaulaBracks...
Paula lives in Wales with her partner and their two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 575 reviews
November 15, 2020
THE GARDEN OF PROMISES AND LIES by Paula Brackston is a well-written and entertaining mix of historical fiction, fantasy, time travel and suspense. It is the third book in the Found Things series and readers will benefit from reading the series in order as there are references to events in previous books. The novel is set in and around Marlborough, a market town in the English county of Wiltshire in a mix of contemporary times and 1815.
Our protagonist, Xanthe, and her mother Flora live in Marlborough above their antique store, The Little Shop of Found Things. Xanthe has found that she can time travel to address injustices, an ability known to a few as Spinning. Also, objects sing and whisper to her. When Benedict Fairfax shows up in contemporary times coerces Xanthe’s assistance and an antique wedding dress calls to her at an auction, she knows that the two are somehow connected and she will once again be time traveling. But how will she determine what the dress needs her to do? Will the Spinner notebook she discovered provide the necessary information and will she be able to interpret it accurately? Who can she trust in the past?
Xanthe has gained some confidence in herself and her ability to understand what the found objects need her to do. However, she is still learning what it means to be able to travel to other times and places. Fairfax is well-portrayed as her nemesis and his motivations are personal to his history and upbringing. Secondary characters provide the emotional support that Xanthe needs at this juncture of her understanding of Spinning. They also bring realism to life through their quirkiness, hobbies and personalities.
Paula Brackston does a great job in giving the reader a sense of both time and place, and her descriptions help the reader to travel with Xanthe. The story has history, mystery, suspense, danger, deceit, uncertainty, secrets, a villain, hope, friendship, duty to family and much more.
Despite a somewhat slow start, overall, this is a steadily paced novel that brings history to life with an entertaining story that is both suspenseful, dramatic and emotional. Be prepared for the imagery to engage your visual, tactile, auditory and olfactory senses. While the climax was not a total surprise, the cliffhanger ending left me wanting more.
Readers that enjoy time travel mixed with suspense and history should enjoy this novel. I look forward to reading more books by Paula Brackston.
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and Paula Brackston for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for December 15, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
Our protagonist, Xanthe, and her mother Flora live in Marlborough above their antique store, The Little Shop of Found Things. Xanthe has found that she can time travel to address injustices, an ability known to a few as Spinning. Also, objects sing and whisper to her. When Benedict Fairfax shows up in contemporary times coerces Xanthe’s assistance and an antique wedding dress calls to her at an auction, she knows that the two are somehow connected and she will once again be time traveling. But how will she determine what the dress needs her to do? Will the Spinner notebook she discovered provide the necessary information and will she be able to interpret it accurately? Who can she trust in the past?
Xanthe has gained some confidence in herself and her ability to understand what the found objects need her to do. However, she is still learning what it means to be able to travel to other times and places. Fairfax is well-portrayed as her nemesis and his motivations are personal to his history and upbringing. Secondary characters provide the emotional support that Xanthe needs at this juncture of her understanding of Spinning. They also bring realism to life through their quirkiness, hobbies and personalities.
Paula Brackston does a great job in giving the reader a sense of both time and place, and her descriptions help the reader to travel with Xanthe. The story has history, mystery, suspense, danger, deceit, uncertainty, secrets, a villain, hope, friendship, duty to family and much more.
Despite a somewhat slow start, overall, this is a steadily paced novel that brings history to life with an entertaining story that is both suspenseful, dramatic and emotional. Be prepared for the imagery to engage your visual, tactile, auditory and olfactory senses. While the climax was not a total surprise, the cliffhanger ending left me wanting more.
Readers that enjoy time travel mixed with suspense and history should enjoy this novel. I look forward to reading more books by Paula Brackston.
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and Paula Brackston for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for December 15, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
December 18, 2020
At the old home – Corsham Hall – where many items were being sold, Xanthe was looking for something to sing to her; something that needed her help. She was also there to add stock to The Little Shop of Found Things, the antique shop she and her mother Flora, ran together. When she saw the beautiful wedding dress, she knew she’d found it. Xanthe was hoping the wedding dress would help her – a Spinner – to remove the dreaded Benedict Fairfax from their lives. Xanthe’s time travelling abilities was something she had held close to her chest to keep her mother safe, but she felt it was time Flora knew what was going on with her daughter…
Bradford-on-Avon in 1815 was very different to Xanthe’s own time and on arrival, she saw Mistress Flyte who had helped her in the past. Discussing what needed to be done, Xanthe returned home to plan for her biggest adventure yet. With the Spinner book by her side, Xanthe asked for answers, for guidance. But as usual the book was cryptic and frustrating. One thing she decided, bringing her good friend Liam up to date with everything, and taking him with her, was an option, that although dangerous, would be helpful in Xanthe achieving her goal.
Would Liam and Xanthe’s adventure run smoothly? Would she succeed in stopping Fairfax and returning to their own time? The danger was immense – time travel could leave travellers lost in time forever – but it had to be done.
The Garden of Promises and Lies by Paula Brackston is the 3rd in the Found Things series, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I hadn’t realised I’d missed #2, and although I’d love to read it still, this one after #1 flowed well and I didn’t feel I’d missed a lot. Xanthe is an excellent character, and her good friend Harley, who knows Xanthe’s secret, is supportive of his friend. Antiques, time travel, mystery, good and evil flow through this book, and I have no trouble recommending it.
With thanks to NetGalley and DJ DeSmyter of St Martins Press for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Bradford-on-Avon in 1815 was very different to Xanthe’s own time and on arrival, she saw Mistress Flyte who had helped her in the past. Discussing what needed to be done, Xanthe returned home to plan for her biggest adventure yet. With the Spinner book by her side, Xanthe asked for answers, for guidance. But as usual the book was cryptic and frustrating. One thing she decided, bringing her good friend Liam up to date with everything, and taking him with her, was an option, that although dangerous, would be helpful in Xanthe achieving her goal.
Would Liam and Xanthe’s adventure run smoothly? Would she succeed in stopping Fairfax and returning to their own time? The danger was immense – time travel could leave travellers lost in time forever – but it had to be done.
The Garden of Promises and Lies by Paula Brackston is the 3rd in the Found Things series, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I hadn’t realised I’d missed #2, and although I’d love to read it still, this one after #1 flowed well and I didn’t feel I’d missed a lot. Xanthe is an excellent character, and her good friend Harley, who knows Xanthe’s secret, is supportive of his friend. Antiques, time travel, mystery, good and evil flow through this book, and I have no trouble recommending it.
With thanks to NetGalley and DJ DeSmyter of St Martins Press for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
November 1, 2020
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: November 3, 2020
“The Garden of Promises and Lies” is the third novel in the “The Little Shop of Found Things” series by Paula Brackston. In this instalment, Xanthe is called by an eighteenth-century wedding dress, and when she returns to the era, she soon discovers that the dress’ owner is set to be married to fellow Spinner (and Xanthe’s nemesis), Fairfax. Xanthe must solve the mystery of why the dress called to her, and what problems she is there to solve, but also must ensure that the Spinner book is kept far away from Fairfax, who plans to use its power all for himself.
After reading the first novel in this series, I found it to have a bit of Alice Hoffman flare, mixed up with a large portion of Diana Gabaldon's Outlander novels. The third novel continues along this vein.
The unfortunate part for me is that I did not get to read the second novel (“Secrets of the Chocolate House”) , so a good portion of my time at the beginning of this novel was spent trying to catch up with what I’d missed. I really wished I had read the second novel, as I would not have felt so instantly lost. However, once I was (relatively) caught up, the novel sucked me in to its magical journey and I was hooked.
Brackston is indeed a creative and poetic storyteller. Her novels (and this one in particular) are full up of very specific descriptive detail about antiques and clothes, and any fashionistas will love all the clothing elements that this novel holds (I am not a fashionista by any means, this era or any other so I can’t say I connected with these parts) . I did, however, enjoy the beautiful language Brackston uses to describe historical settings, estates and landscapes.
I highly recommend reading the first two novels in the series first before taking on this story, or, like me, you will not get to fully enjoy the story as it deserves to be enjoyed. Unique, historical and full of time traveling fun, “Garden” is pure magic.
Expected publication date: November 3, 2020
“The Garden of Promises and Lies” is the third novel in the “The Little Shop of Found Things” series by Paula Brackston. In this instalment, Xanthe is called by an eighteenth-century wedding dress, and when she returns to the era, she soon discovers that the dress’ owner is set to be married to fellow Spinner (and Xanthe’s nemesis), Fairfax. Xanthe must solve the mystery of why the dress called to her, and what problems she is there to solve, but also must ensure that the Spinner book is kept far away from Fairfax, who plans to use its power all for himself.
After reading the first novel in this series, I found it to have a bit of Alice Hoffman flare, mixed up with a large portion of Diana Gabaldon's Outlander novels. The third novel continues along this vein.
The unfortunate part for me is that I did not get to read the second novel (“Secrets of the Chocolate House”) , so a good portion of my time at the beginning of this novel was spent trying to catch up with what I’d missed. I really wished I had read the second novel, as I would not have felt so instantly lost. However, once I was (relatively) caught up, the novel sucked me in to its magical journey and I was hooked.
Brackston is indeed a creative and poetic storyteller. Her novels (and this one in particular) are full up of very specific descriptive detail about antiques and clothes, and any fashionistas will love all the clothing elements that this novel holds (I am not a fashionista by any means, this era or any other so I can’t say I connected with these parts) . I did, however, enjoy the beautiful language Brackston uses to describe historical settings, estates and landscapes.
I highly recommend reading the first two novels in the series first before taking on this story, or, like me, you will not get to fully enjoy the story as it deserves to be enjoyed. Unique, historical and full of time traveling fun, “Garden” is pure magic.
November 1, 2020
Thank you, Paula Brackston, NetGalley, and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this book!
IT’S HERE! IT IS FINALLY HERE! The wait for The Garden of Promises and Lies by Paula Brackston is over and I couldn’t be happier! This is the 3rd book in the Found Things series. So if you haven’t read the first two books, I highly suggest it. We pick back up with Xanthe and her mother Flora, who run a little shop of antiques. Unique items have been “singing” to Xanthe since she was a child. In the previous books, she discovers she is a Spinner, which means she can travel through time. Xanthe should be enjoying her life with her mother, friends, and Liam. But the arrival of Benedict Fairfax in her own time period does not bode well. In the meantime, an Edwardian wedding dress sings to her at an estate sale. Somehow, it is linked to Benedict Fairfax and she will need to travel back to set things right. This time, she won’t be alone in her travels…
Is it weird that I cried when I began this book? Not sobbing or sad tears but just little happy tears of joy of reading about some of my favorite characters. I have missed them!–Especially since the last book ended on a little cliffhanger. It was well worth the wait. Benedict Fairfax is back and not playing nice, did he ever though? This time he targets Xanthe’s friends and family. I love her courage in the face of fear and danger. She would willingly sacrifice to save the world. This book dives more into her relationships in her time. Mainly her mother and Liam. She hasn’t told them of her gifts and expects that they will think she has lost her mind. She is torn between telling them and keeping it a secret and lying to them when she travels.
This time Xanthe travels to the Regency period and once again, I love the attention to the historical detail in the story. Her mission always depends on her being able to navigate these details which are very delicate. It is not as easy as one would think.
This book does end on a MASSIVE cliffhanger and be prepared for the bittersweetness of it. It is a fantastic end that will leave you wanting more and the next book IMMEDIATELY. So the wait begins again. But this magical series is worth the wait. Do not miss out on this book! It is available on December 15th! This book gets 5 magical stars!
IT’S HERE! IT IS FINALLY HERE! The wait for The Garden of Promises and Lies by Paula Brackston is over and I couldn’t be happier! This is the 3rd book in the Found Things series. So if you haven’t read the first two books, I highly suggest it. We pick back up with Xanthe and her mother Flora, who run a little shop of antiques. Unique items have been “singing” to Xanthe since she was a child. In the previous books, she discovers she is a Spinner, which means she can travel through time. Xanthe should be enjoying her life with her mother, friends, and Liam. But the arrival of Benedict Fairfax in her own time period does not bode well. In the meantime, an Edwardian wedding dress sings to her at an estate sale. Somehow, it is linked to Benedict Fairfax and she will need to travel back to set things right. This time, she won’t be alone in her travels…
Is it weird that I cried when I began this book? Not sobbing or sad tears but just little happy tears of joy of reading about some of my favorite characters. I have missed them!–Especially since the last book ended on a little cliffhanger. It was well worth the wait. Benedict Fairfax is back and not playing nice, did he ever though? This time he targets Xanthe’s friends and family. I love her courage in the face of fear and danger. She would willingly sacrifice to save the world. This book dives more into her relationships in her time. Mainly her mother and Liam. She hasn’t told them of her gifts and expects that they will think she has lost her mind. She is torn between telling them and keeping it a secret and lying to them when she travels.
This time Xanthe travels to the Regency period and once again, I love the attention to the historical detail in the story. Her mission always depends on her being able to navigate these details which are very delicate. It is not as easy as one would think.
This book does end on a MASSIVE cliffhanger and be prepared for the bittersweetness of it. It is a fantastic end that will leave you wanting more and the next book IMMEDIATELY. So the wait begins again. But this magical series is worth the wait. Do not miss out on this book! It is available on December 15th! This book gets 5 magical stars!
November 5, 2020
3.5 stars, rounded down because--Arrrrgh! I'm getting tired of these books ending on such dramatic cliffhangers and then I have to wait a whole year for the next one!
I really love the series overall and you definitely need to read them in order to get a sense for why things are happening and how all of the characters relate to the story and each other.
This book furthers the complicated relationship between Xanthe and Fairfax and brings their rivalry (if you can call it that) to a head. Xanthe discovers new things about her abilities and some people who we thought were good and on Xanthe's side are maybe not? As I mentioned above, there's a gigantic cliffhanger at the end.
The plot and action are moving forward and the events that occur are very intriguing. If you like time travel/magical realism stories, this series is one that will really appeal.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I really love the series overall and you definitely need to read them in order to get a sense for why things are happening and how all of the characters relate to the story and each other.
This book furthers the complicated relationship between Xanthe and Fairfax and brings their rivalry (if you can call it that) to a head. Xanthe discovers new things about her abilities and some people who we thought were good and on Xanthe's side are maybe not? As I mentioned above, there's a gigantic cliffhanger at the end.
The plot and action are moving forward and the events that occur are very intriguing. If you like time travel/magical realism stories, this series is one that will really appeal.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
March 18, 2021
The Garden of Promises and Lies is the third book in the Found Things series.
This is one series you definitely want to start at the beginning with as it references things and characters in the previous books.
Historical,suspense,time travel and fantasy you will find them all within this series.
Taking place in modern times and 1815 in and around Marlborough.
The book starts out slow but then mightily picks up the pace.
Xanthe is left to reflect on the strange events of the past year .
A whirlwind of adventures ensues as Xanthe heeds the call of a beautiful antique wedding dress that sings to her. She's had this ability her whole life.
When things get too much for her to handle on her own she involves her boyfriend Liam bringing him back in time with her. Will this prove to be the downfall of them both or will peace finally be restored?
I eagerly look forward to the next installment.
Published December 15th 2020 by St. Martin's Press
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This is one series you definitely want to start at the beginning with as it references things and characters in the previous books.
Historical,suspense,time travel and fantasy you will find them all within this series.
Taking place in modern times and 1815 in and around Marlborough.
The book starts out slow but then mightily picks up the pace.
Xanthe is left to reflect on the strange events of the past year .
A whirlwind of adventures ensues as Xanthe heeds the call of a beautiful antique wedding dress that sings to her. She's had this ability her whole life.
When things get too much for her to handle on her own she involves her boyfriend Liam bringing him back in time with her. Will this prove to be the downfall of them both or will peace finally be restored?
I eagerly look forward to the next installment.
Published December 15th 2020 by St. Martin's Press
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
December 23, 2020
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
This was fantastic! I tend to enjoy time travel stories so I was drawn to this series from the start. Once I started reading the series, it became evident that this was something really special. I was really looking forward to this installment and it delivered on every level. I found this book to be a wonderful escape and really enjoyed going along with Xanthe during this adventure.
Xanthe is a Spinner, which is the term used for individuals with the special skill of being able to spin time. Certain objects sing to Xanthe and pull her into time so that she can set things right. When Xanthe finds an antique wedding dress, she knows that it has a story to tell. She also must continue to deal with Fairfax who is determined to get what he wants from Xanthe at any cost and in any time.
I loved the characters in this book. There were some pretty big developments for Xanthe in her personal life in this story and I loved seeing how supportive everyone in her life turned out to be. I found the characters in the past to be just as likable and I found myself hoping that Xanthe would be able to help their situation. I loved getting to know Xanthe better as she learned more about her abilities.
I would recommend this book to others. I found this to be a very well done and exciting story that kept me glued to the pages until the very end. I do have to say that the ending has left me very eager to read the next installment in this wonderful series.
I received a digital review copy of this book from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley.
Initial Thoughts
This was fantastic! I really enjoyed the first two books in this series and was eager to see what adventures Xanthe would be a part of in this installment. There were a lot of discoveries in this book and I am enjoying watching Xanthe really learn to use all of her abilities. This story went in a direction that I could have never expected and the ending has left me excited to read the next book in the series.
This was fantastic! I tend to enjoy time travel stories so I was drawn to this series from the start. Once I started reading the series, it became evident that this was something really special. I was really looking forward to this installment and it delivered on every level. I found this book to be a wonderful escape and really enjoyed going along with Xanthe during this adventure.
Xanthe is a Spinner, which is the term used for individuals with the special skill of being able to spin time. Certain objects sing to Xanthe and pull her into time so that she can set things right. When Xanthe finds an antique wedding dress, she knows that it has a story to tell. She also must continue to deal with Fairfax who is determined to get what he wants from Xanthe at any cost and in any time.
I loved the characters in this book. There were some pretty big developments for Xanthe in her personal life in this story and I loved seeing how supportive everyone in her life turned out to be. I found the characters in the past to be just as likable and I found myself hoping that Xanthe would be able to help their situation. I loved getting to know Xanthe better as she learned more about her abilities.
I would recommend this book to others. I found this to be a very well done and exciting story that kept me glued to the pages until the very end. I do have to say that the ending has left me very eager to read the next installment in this wonderful series.
I received a digital review copy of this book from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley.
Initial Thoughts
This was fantastic! I really enjoyed the first two books in this series and was eager to see what adventures Xanthe would be a part of in this installment. There were a lot of discoveries in this book and I am enjoying watching Xanthe really learn to use all of her abilities. This story went in a direction that I could have never expected and the ending has left me excited to read the next book in the series.
December 25, 2020
The Garden of Promises and Lies by Paula Brackston is the third (but not final) installment in the Found Things series and is every bit captivating as its two predecessors. It includes all that I love about this series - magic, suspense, time travel and a dash of romance.
Xanthe is getting better at spinning time with the help of her prized book, Spinners, and yet her talent still remains a secret. When a wedding dress sings to her at an estate sale, she knows she is needed back in time but this time stakes are much higher. Fairfax is threatening her and her loved ones in the current timeline, and Xanthe is wary of keeping her mother and Liam in the dark. Does Xanthe manage to go back in time? Can she stop Fairfax from executing his vile plans?
The Garden of Promises and Lies is another magical journey, full of suspense, danger, history, love and friendship. Paula Brackston pays attention to the tiniest of details, be it her characters or the lush descriptions of the Regency era England. Just like the previous two books, I savored every moment. And, while the story in this timeline wrapped up nicely, there was an extremely unexpected cliffhanger at the end that has me waiting impatiently for the next book!
I highly recommend reading this series if you're a fan of historical fiction and time travel.
**An e-ARC provided by St. Martin's Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Xanthe is getting better at spinning time with the help of her prized book, Spinners, and yet her talent still remains a secret. When a wedding dress sings to her at an estate sale, she knows she is needed back in time but this time stakes are much higher. Fairfax is threatening her and her loved ones in the current timeline, and Xanthe is wary of keeping her mother and Liam in the dark. Does Xanthe manage to go back in time? Can she stop Fairfax from executing his vile plans?
The Garden of Promises and Lies is another magical journey, full of suspense, danger, history, love and friendship. Paula Brackston pays attention to the tiniest of details, be it her characters or the lush descriptions of the Regency era England. Just like the previous two books, I savored every moment. And, while the story in this timeline wrapped up nicely, there was an extremely unexpected cliffhanger at the end that has me waiting impatiently for the next book!
I highly recommend reading this series if you're a fan of historical fiction and time travel.
**An e-ARC provided by St. Martin's Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
September 10, 2024
What a fun and thrilling romp through time! Xanthe, a "spinner", is one who can spin time and travel through it. Her access point is the old blind house facilitated by objects which "sing" to her, calling her back in time to right a wrong or correct an injustice. This is the call of the "spinners".
This story picks up where the previous installment leaves off. Greed and evil against good plays heavily throughout this story. This time, an 18th century wedding dress "sings" to Xanthe and encourages her to travel back to its time of origin. Simultaneously, the evil one has found his way to current day England and is wreaking havoc on Xanthe's life and loved ones. Will she prevail in the end? Only time will tell. Again, Ms Brackston leaves the reader with a dire situation, some unanswered questions and an eagerness for the story's next installment.
Author Paula Brackston, through her extensive research, is brilliant at world building and deftly creates two - the now and 17th century then of England. Her writing is exquisitely crafted and at times poetic. Such a wonderful imagination this author has to spin such a fabulous yarn.
This third in series book, stands well enough on its own. However, there are a few tantalizing references to the first and second which encourages the reader to explore the earlier installments of this series. I eagerly await the next installment in this grand and adventurous series.
I am grateful to Paula Brackston and her publishing team at St. Martin's Press for having provided a complimentary uncorrected digital galley of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
This story picks up where the previous installment leaves off. Greed and evil against good plays heavily throughout this story. This time, an 18th century wedding dress "sings" to Xanthe and encourages her to travel back to its time of origin. Simultaneously, the evil one has found his way to current day England and is wreaking havoc on Xanthe's life and loved ones. Will she prevail in the end? Only time will tell. Again, Ms Brackston leaves the reader with a dire situation, some unanswered questions and an eagerness for the story's next installment.
Author Paula Brackston, through her extensive research, is brilliant at world building and deftly creates two - the now and 17th century then of England. Her writing is exquisitely crafted and at times poetic. Such a wonderful imagination this author has to spin such a fabulous yarn.
This third in series book, stands well enough on its own. However, there are a few tantalizing references to the first and second which encourages the reader to explore the earlier installments of this series. I eagerly await the next installment in this grand and adventurous series.
I am grateful to Paula Brackston and her publishing team at St. Martin's Press for having provided a complimentary uncorrected digital galley of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
December 13, 2020
Wow! This is the third book in the Lost Things series and what a great addition. At first I wondered how this could compare to the first two books and where it would take Xanthe. Although slow initially when it took off I couldn’t put the book down. It was a whirlwind adventure of whimsy and danger while Xanthe time travels as a Spinner once again to restore peace and history. I can hardly wait for the next installment in this series. What a cliff hanger!
June 15, 2022
I absolutely love this series! In this, book 3 of this series, many of my questions are answered. Xanthe finally accepts
and embraces who and what she if. She comes to the realizing that she must fight the evil that has come into her life, which is threatening everything she she holds most dear. Xanthe's journey is definitely not an easy one and she finds some people who she trusted are not who they seemed. She also, finally!, lets herself open up her heart for love. The ending was a surprise for me. A good surprise and I hated for the book to end!
I would like to thank Paula Brackton, St.Martin's Press and Netgalley for opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my fair and honest review
and embraces who and what she if. She comes to the realizing that she must fight the evil that has come into her life, which is threatening everything she she holds most dear. Xanthe's journey is definitely not an easy one and she finds some people who she trusted are not who they seemed. She also, finally!, lets herself open up her heart for love. The ending was a surprise for me. A good surprise and I hated for the book to end!
I would like to thank Paula Brackton, St.Martin's Press and Netgalley for opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my fair and honest review
February 12, 2021
Review to come. For now, I'll say it is worth the wait!
December 29, 2020
3.5 It’s been a hot minute since I read one of Paula Brackston’s novels. I have read almost all of her books though and I have loved many many many of the stories. This novel is the third in her Found Things series which I have really enjoyed thus far.
I was so excited to see that this one was coming out this month and while I tried to keep my calendar open for all the Christmas books this month, I made an exception for this one and added it to my December calendar because I simply love her books!
If you love historical fiction with some time travel and paranormal/magic then you don’t want to miss this series, or the author’s other books for that matter. I highly recommend reading this series from the beginning though because you will definitely feel lost jumping in this late in the game!
The second book in the series ended on a cliff hanger and I was really looking forward to seeing what happened next in the saga, only to be let down by this one ending with yet another cliffhanger! I mean this book answered some lingering questions I had from previous books, but the ending was a bit of a surprise for me. I don’t know if this book was as strong as the others in the series, but I did still enjoy me time with the characters and of course the time travel/mystery parts.
The first part of the book starts a little slower than I would have hoped but it picked up pretty quick and I though the author did a good job orientating readers back in the story and familiarizing the readers with the characters. I had forgotten a couple of little plot points and I was glad that the author went back and covered some of the bits that readers might have forgotten. But as I said earlier, I would read this book out of sequence from the larger series.
I also loved where Xanthe and Liam went in time. I thought the author did a lovely job with the historical elements and details of the story as per usual. Brackson is a jewel in the historical fiction market, her stories are always well researched and have loads of details without being overwhelming.
Readers of the series will know that Xanthe and Liam are boyfriend/girlfriend and in this book they are posing as brother and sister. I struggled a little with their relationship in this one which I think is why I didn’t love it as much as I did the others. I was hoping for more progress or maybe more passion in their romance than I got in this book. Something about it just felt off to me this time around and I am not sure why. The only thing I could think of was that because they were posing as brother and sister, maybe it made their relationship more platonic in nature than was intended?
Overall though, this book is a good solid read and a nice installment to the saga. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I don’t know that I loved it as much as the other books but it was good and I love the historical details and finally getting some answers about the Spinners.
See my full review here
I was so excited to see that this one was coming out this month and while I tried to keep my calendar open for all the Christmas books this month, I made an exception for this one and added it to my December calendar because I simply love her books!
If you love historical fiction with some time travel and paranormal/magic then you don’t want to miss this series, or the author’s other books for that matter. I highly recommend reading this series from the beginning though because you will definitely feel lost jumping in this late in the game!
The second book in the series ended on a cliff hanger and I was really looking forward to seeing what happened next in the saga, only to be let down by this one ending with yet another cliffhanger! I mean this book answered some lingering questions I had from previous books, but the ending was a bit of a surprise for me. I don’t know if this book was as strong as the others in the series, but I did still enjoy me time with the characters and of course the time travel/mystery parts.
The first part of the book starts a little slower than I would have hoped but it picked up pretty quick and I though the author did a good job orientating readers back in the story and familiarizing the readers with the characters. I had forgotten a couple of little plot points and I was glad that the author went back and covered some of the bits that readers might have forgotten. But as I said earlier, I would read this book out of sequence from the larger series.
I also loved where Xanthe and Liam went in time. I thought the author did a lovely job with the historical elements and details of the story as per usual. Brackson is a jewel in the historical fiction market, her stories are always well researched and have loads of details without being overwhelming.
Readers of the series will know that Xanthe and Liam are boyfriend/girlfriend and in this book they are posing as brother and sister. I struggled a little with their relationship in this one which I think is why I didn’t love it as much as I did the others. I was hoping for more progress or maybe more passion in their romance than I got in this book. Something about it just felt off to me this time around and I am not sure why. The only thing I could think of was that because they were posing as brother and sister, maybe it made their relationship more platonic in nature than was intended?
Overall though, this book is a good solid read and a nice installment to the saga. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I don’t know that I loved it as much as the other books but it was good and I love the historical details and finally getting some answers about the Spinners.
See my full review here
January 6, 2021
📚 Hello Book Friends! This will be my first review in 2021! THE GARDEN OF PROMISES AND LIES by Paula Brackston is the third book in the Found Things Series. I love this concept of someone being able to travel in time to help others through an object that belongs to the person needing help. Xanthe is discovering more and more about her gifts as a Spinner and can now bring someone with her through time. This is an interesting twist in this series and opens doors to more adventures. This time a very old wedding dress calls Xanthe to the seventeenth century where she will meet Petronella who is betrothed to Xanthe’s nemesis: Benedict Fairfax. Fairfax wants something from Xanthe and will do all he can to get it. The book ends with a nail-biting cliff-hanger. I will have to wait for the fourth book to discover how this will turn out. This series is fantastic, and I recommend you read the books to enjoy the flow of the story.
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November 8, 2020
This is the third book in the Found Things series and I have enjoyed them all. Although you could read this book separately and keep up, it would definitely be good to start at the beginning of the series to get the background history.
Old items 'sing' to Xanthe, and she's had this ability all her life. In this book an 18th-century wedding dress is calling to her and she eagerly responds because there is evil following her from the previous book that she wants to deal with and bring to an end. Xanthe, once again, goes back in time to face this evil.
Brackston's prose is lyrical and invitingly draws you into the story of Xanthe's life in the present and the unveiling of the mysteries she faces in the past. All the favorite characters from the previous books are back and get pulled into the adventure as Xanthe finally accepts what she is and what she can do.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Old items 'sing' to Xanthe, and she's had this ability all her life. In this book an 18th-century wedding dress is calling to her and she eagerly responds because there is evil following her from the previous book that she wants to deal with and bring to an end. Xanthe, once again, goes back in time to face this evil.
Brackston's prose is lyrical and invitingly draws you into the story of Xanthe's life in the present and the unveiling of the mysteries she faces in the past. All the favorite characters from the previous books are back and get pulled into the adventure as Xanthe finally accepts what she is and what she can do.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press through Netgalley for an advance copy.
July 1, 2021
This third book was quite good. I really enjoyed this series.
August 16, 2021
Oh, my. This one kept me on my toes. As Xanthe learns to understand and successfully work with her gift, the plots become more intense and complex. I love that the protagonist is willing to take chances, and that usually there are difficult situations and lessons presented when she does.
March 18, 2021
I went into this book believing it to be the last in the series, because of that I was somewhat disappointed (at first) with the cliff hanger! Now I am just happy that this delightful tale will continue. I'll look forward to the publication of book four in the series.
July 3, 2021
This book in the Found Things series was really, really good. Some issues from past books were resolved, Xanthe learns more about how to control being a Spinner but further issues arise. This book ended on a huge cliffhanger which I normally hate but this is such a good series I can't wait until the next book comes out.
May 29, 2021
Fantastic. I hope the next Book is available soon
March 31, 2022
Not as exciting at the first two books. It took a while to get through it.
February 14, 2022
Well Paula you did it again and held my interest right through this one. My only gripe is you’ve left me on a cliff hanger at the end and hopefully you have another book in progress. Unlike the other books in this series I want to know more much more. I never thought this genre could be so enticing but this author has got me hooked line and sinker. It’s a very well written story on ‘spinners’ time travellers. Xanthe is the main character and she is one of the best I’ve been drawn into with each story. This is the 3rd book of this series and I need more but hopefully I don’t need to wait another year to read it. I can’t say much about the story without giving spoilers but it’s a fabulous read you won’t want to put down! The only reason it took me so long was the festive season and so much other things to occupy my time. Well I’ve just found the 4th one in the series and placed a hold on it 😊
June 11, 2020
I had been having a bad few days: washer quit, faucet leaking, and a sick cat. I decided to read for a while and try to regain my sanity. All I can say is "Thank you,Paula Brackston" This book hooked me from the very beginning. you. However, if you like strong heroines, flawed but gorgeous heroes, and witty dialogue....this is it! Thank you Netgalley.
December 28, 2023
This third book in her series about spinners is amazing and hard to put down!
I truly became hooked near the end and I could not stop reading!
Found things, lies, and promises all mingling together along with the friendships. I will miss the characters of the manor and the relationships formed as the wedding takes place. The villain I will not miss and his end was quite well done by the writer! Suspense adds to his end and the book is safe with Liam appearing with it.
Evie still being missing after the death of the husband and the widow missing her sister. The events unfolding to the part where Liam becomes the lead of the next book, all of it, is too much for me not to read on with the next book!
This mystery spin of the where and why and play of events has the reader seeking the next book to see him home where he can work on his vehicles. A place where he belongs and is comfortable. Liam is missed by his village. When will he return and how? The call to spin must be answered.
I truly became hooked near the end and I could not stop reading!
Found things, lies, and promises all mingling together along with the friendships. I will miss the characters of the manor and the relationships formed as the wedding takes place. The villain I will not miss and his end was quite well done by the writer! Suspense adds to his end and the book is safe with Liam appearing with it.
Evie still being missing after the death of the husband and the widow missing her sister. The events unfolding to the part where Liam becomes the lead of the next book, all of it, is too much for me not to read on with the next book!
This mystery spin of the where and why and play of events has the reader seeking the next book to see him home where he can work on his vehicles. A place where he belongs and is comfortable. Liam is missed by his village. When will he return and how? The call to spin must be answered.
May 26, 2022
I love being swept up into the past in these books. It feels so vivid and real, and like I’m stepping through time myself! This series has been such a treat for me. I’m into the third book now and loving them more and more the more I read them.
It was great to catch up with Xanthe again and her time travelling adventures. She’s such a great main character and really has you rooting for her.
This time, a trip back to the 1900’s has her on a dangerous mission to outfox fairfax. Accompanied with her trusty book, spinning is beginning to become easier for Xanthe, and all things change when she realises she doesn’t have to travel through time alone…
This one was soo entertaining and I never think they can get any better and they do! I’m so glad this series isn’t just a trilogy and that there are more to enjoy. I’m forever hoping that the author will never stop writing these books! And after that ending, I’m definitely launching straight into the next book to see how it all ends!
It was great to catch up with Xanthe again and her time travelling adventures. She’s such a great main character and really has you rooting for her.
This time, a trip back to the 1900’s has her on a dangerous mission to outfox fairfax. Accompanied with her trusty book, spinning is beginning to become easier for Xanthe, and all things change when she realises she doesn’t have to travel through time alone…
This one was soo entertaining and I never think they can get any better and they do! I’m so glad this series isn’t just a trilogy and that there are more to enjoy. I’m forever hoping that the author will never stop writing these books! And after that ending, I’m definitely launching straight into the next book to see how it all ends!
November 23, 2024
Third book of the series done. Really enjoying this cozy little time-travelling adventure story. Little mystery, little danger, little romance. Ok are they well written, maybe not perfect. As a series, Brackston does allow each book, each ‘found thing’ to have its story while weaving them within the greater purpose. Paula allowed each books’ characters and story to conclude before throwing out a cliff hanger for the reader ready to jump into the next saga.
I really like the historical accuracies Brackston does her best to impart (thanks to research and images given after the acknowledgements).
A lovely series for those who like cozy, historical tine-travel adventures.
Looking forward to reading the fourth and final book.
I really like the historical accuracies Brackston does her best to impart (thanks to research and images given after the acknowledgements).
A lovely series for those who like cozy, historical tine-travel adventures.
Looking forward to reading the fourth and final book.
January 18, 2021
Another brilliant episode in the Found Things saga by Paula Brackston. I have been waiting ever so patiently for the next adventure through time with Xanthe and it was well worth the wait! I was thrilled to find a horticultural thread in the story, being one myself, it made the story all the more real for me.
I thoroughly enjoy Ms. Brackston's writing style, it is clear, engaging, and easy to get lost in. The scenery is richly described, and the focal point of a dress this time drew me in even further. One of the best parts about historical fiction is always the clothing, it makes a superb anchor for a story in time.
Xanthe, as always, is strong, yet cognizant of her shortcomings. She knows she needs to learn more and is willing to do it to stop her recently acquired nemesis. We learn more about the Spinners in this volume, but they still remain a mystery. And perhaps those with outward greed aren't the only ones with personal agendas. Xanthe makes many strides this time, but in the end, finds herself in the biggest bind yet. I am so looking forward to the next book!
The Garden of Promises and Lies ticks all of the boxes for an excellent escape into time travel and history. Come along with Xanthe as she explores her unusual gift and the ribbons of time, it is always an exciting adventure!
I thoroughly enjoy Ms. Brackston's writing style, it is clear, engaging, and easy to get lost in. The scenery is richly described, and the focal point of a dress this time drew me in even further. One of the best parts about historical fiction is always the clothing, it makes a superb anchor for a story in time.
Xanthe, as always, is strong, yet cognizant of her shortcomings. She knows she needs to learn more and is willing to do it to stop her recently acquired nemesis. We learn more about the Spinners in this volume, but they still remain a mystery. And perhaps those with outward greed aren't the only ones with personal agendas. Xanthe makes many strides this time, but in the end, finds herself in the biggest bind yet. I am so looking forward to the next book!
The Garden of Promises and Lies ticks all of the boxes for an excellent escape into time travel and history. Come along with Xanthe as she explores her unusual gift and the ribbons of time, it is always an exciting adventure!
February 22, 2021
There's so much to say here. First off I'm a huge fan of this series overall. This book which is the third surpasses the first two some crazy how. It is both satisfying tying up loose ends from the previous book but also leaving the reader with more unanswered questions. I look forward to the next installment.
February 24, 2021
Paula Brackston is a must read author for me and this series (Found Things) particularly makes me pre-order every book and count down the days to the next one. I love time travel romance and this series is perfect! Highly recommend!
February 14, 2023
I loved being transported to the Regency era, especially meeting Nell and Evie. The wonderful descriptions of the clothes, the great house, the food, the grounds and gardens and the customs of the day added a lot to the story for me.
This was my favourite book of the series so far.
This was my favourite book of the series so far.
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