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Redemption's Light #3
A Feeling of Home
2023 Selah Awards Finalist
Can she set aside the pain from the past to embrace a new love?
Isabelle Wardrop's well-to-do life has completely unraveled. Within months, she's lost both her parents, her fortune, and her home. With nowhere else to turn, she and her younger sister move in with a trusted former servant in an impoverished area of the city. Desperate for work but having no qualifications, Isabelle is forced to accept help from Dr. Mark Henshaw, the very man she blames for her mother's death.
Mark Henshaw has admired Isabelle for several months, but after the tragic death of her mother, he vows to make amends for the past and help her find her way. But when Mark learns his younger brother has formed an undesirable friendship with Isabelle's sister--one that brings a whole new set of problems into their lives--he doesn't know if Isabelle will ever forgive him.
When startling developments begin to take place, both within Isabelle's heart and their siblings' relationship, her future looks very different than anything she could have imagined.
"Mason delivers a soothing WWII romance . . . and paints a rich picture of the social challenges of the era."-- Publishers Weekly on To Find Her Place
Can she set aside the pain from the past to embrace a new love?
Isabelle Wardrop's well-to-do life has completely unraveled. Within months, she's lost both her parents, her fortune, and her home. With nowhere else to turn, she and her younger sister move in with a trusted former servant in an impoverished area of the city. Desperate for work but having no qualifications, Isabelle is forced to accept help from Dr. Mark Henshaw, the very man she blames for her mother's death.
Mark Henshaw has admired Isabelle for several months, but after the tragic death of her mother, he vows to make amends for the past and help her find her way. But when Mark learns his younger brother has formed an undesirable friendship with Isabelle's sister--one that brings a whole new set of problems into their lives--he doesn't know if Isabelle will ever forgive him.
When startling developments begin to take place, both within Isabelle's heart and their siblings' relationship, her future looks very different than anything she could have imagined.
"Mason delivers a soothing WWII romance . . . and paints a rich picture of the social challenges of the era."-- Publishers Weekly on To Find Her Place
368 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2022
8 people are currently reading
1679 people want to read
About the author
Susan Anne Mason
22 books530 followersSusan writes both contemporary and historical Inspirational romances. She describes her writing style as “Romance sprinkled with faith” and loves themes of forgiveness and redemption!
She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and a former member of the Romance Writers of America. M
Susan lives near Toronto in Ontario, Canada with her husband and two adult children. She loves chocolate and wine and isn't partial to snow even though she's Canadian!
She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and a former member of the Romance Writers of America. M
Susan lives near Toronto in Ontario, Canada with her husband and two adult children. She loves chocolate and wine and isn't partial to snow even though she's Canadian!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
July 5, 2022
I have enjoyed this sweet series and was happy to see previous characters in this offering. Susan Anne Mason tells a very precious and moving story here. I enjoyed it so much.
My thanks to Bethany House for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion in this review is my own.
My thanks to Bethany House for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion in this review is my own.
April 14, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
Set in 1944, A Feeling of Home follows the story of Isabelle Wardrop and Mark Henshaw, along with Marissa and Josh. When Isabelle’s parents die a few months apart from each other, Isabelle and Marissa lose their home and fortune. Isabelle not only has to become the sole provider, but also the parent of her younger sister. When circumstances force Isabelle to seek the help of others, Mark Henshaw, someone Isabelle blames for the death of her mother, is the person willing to offer her a job she desperately needs. Mark, a doctor who is also the sole guardian of his younger brother, Josh, is more than glad he has a second chance to redeem his friendship with Isabelle and help her find a job. However, when certain events come to play and startling information comes to light, Mark and Isabelle are at odds—not only with their siblings but with each other. What tore Mark and Isabelle apart the first time—blaming one another for things that transpired that weren’t within their control—threatens to happen again. Only this time, will it be an ending? You’ll have to read to find out!
There were a few things I appreciated about this book.
First, the relationships between Isabelle/Marissa and Mark/Josh. I appreciated how the author didn’t have Isabelle and Mark be the perfect “parents” to their younger siblings, but struggle along the way. It’s not easy to be a parent, much less to a younger sibling after both your parents died. Isabelle struggled to reach Marissa, and Mark struggled to find the balance between pushing Josh and letting him embrace his own dreams and desires. Both Isabelle and Mark failed at times and sought the forgiveness of their siblings, and I appreciated the rawness displayed in their relationships.
Second, the inclusion of pregnancy centers. No one makes the right decisions, and sometimes, those result in unplanned pregnancies. The women at the pregnancy center never shamed someone for messing up, but welcomed them into their establishment and showered them with grace when others heaped judgment upon them. Books that promote carrying a child to term and either raising them or giving them up for adoption are books that I support. Abortion doesn’t have to be the only option when you’re dealing with an unplanned pregnancy, and I’m grateful for books that spotlight pregnancy centers and the different options they provide. Unplanned pregnancies are a difficult topic, but the author handled it with intentionality and care.
One specific thing that kept me from giving this book a higher rating:
The relationships between Isabelle/Mark and Marissa/Josh. I’m not sure if this was popular during the twentieth century, but the relationships threw me off a bit for a specific reason: While Josh wanted to marry Marissa, Mark pursued a relationship with Isabelle. I don’t know—I’m assuming this was acceptable during that time period since the author included this, but the idea of both girls being in relationships with both brothers threw me off, especially since both couples married in the end. (The relationships weren’t portrayed in an inappropriate way whatsoever.)
If this was socially acceptable during the time, then I wish Mark and Isabelle had waited to pursue a relationship until their siblings were in a better place and had an understanding of the direction they wanted their relationship to go in. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with having feelings for someone and wanting to pursue them, but I think I would have given this book a higher rating if Mark and Isabelle had waited until closer towards the end of the book to start a relationship.
As always, please don’t let my review keep you from reading this book. What may have been a 3.5-star read for me may be a 5-star read for someone else. This book had great themes, family relationships, and faith elements!
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC of A Feeling of Home. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
Set in 1944, A Feeling of Home follows the story of Isabelle Wardrop and Mark Henshaw, along with Marissa and Josh. When Isabelle’s parents die a few months apart from each other, Isabelle and Marissa lose their home and fortune. Isabelle not only has to become the sole provider, but also the parent of her younger sister. When circumstances force Isabelle to seek the help of others, Mark Henshaw, someone Isabelle blames for the death of her mother, is the person willing to offer her a job she desperately needs. Mark, a doctor who is also the sole guardian of his younger brother, Josh, is more than glad he has a second chance to redeem his friendship with Isabelle and help her find a job. However, when certain events come to play and startling information comes to light, Mark and Isabelle are at odds—not only with their siblings but with each other. What tore Mark and Isabelle apart the first time—blaming one another for things that transpired that weren’t within their control—threatens to happen again. Only this time, will it be an ending? You’ll have to read to find out!
There were a few things I appreciated about this book.
First, the relationships between Isabelle/Marissa and Mark/Josh. I appreciated how the author didn’t have Isabelle and Mark be the perfect “parents” to their younger siblings, but struggle along the way. It’s not easy to be a parent, much less to a younger sibling after both your parents died. Isabelle struggled to reach Marissa, and Mark struggled to find the balance between pushing Josh and letting him embrace his own dreams and desires. Both Isabelle and Mark failed at times and sought the forgiveness of their siblings, and I appreciated the rawness displayed in their relationships.
Second, the inclusion of pregnancy centers. No one makes the right decisions, and sometimes, those result in unplanned pregnancies. The women at the pregnancy center never shamed someone for messing up, but welcomed them into their establishment and showered them with grace when others heaped judgment upon them. Books that promote carrying a child to term and either raising them or giving them up for adoption are books that I support. Abortion doesn’t have to be the only option when you’re dealing with an unplanned pregnancy, and I’m grateful for books that spotlight pregnancy centers and the different options they provide. Unplanned pregnancies are a difficult topic, but the author handled it with intentionality and care.
One specific thing that kept me from giving this book a higher rating:
The relationships between Isabelle/Mark and Marissa/Josh. I’m not sure if this was popular during the twentieth century, but the relationships threw me off a bit for a specific reason: While Josh wanted to marry Marissa, Mark pursued a relationship with Isabelle. I don’t know—I’m assuming this was acceptable during that time period since the author included this, but the idea of both girls being in relationships with both brothers threw me off, especially since both couples married in the end. (The relationships weren’t portrayed in an inappropriate way whatsoever.)
If this was socially acceptable during the time, then I wish Mark and Isabelle had waited to pursue a relationship until their siblings were in a better place and had an understanding of the direction they wanted their relationship to go in. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with having feelings for someone and wanting to pursue them, but I think I would have given this book a higher rating if Mark and Isabelle had waited until closer towards the end of the book to start a relationship.
As always, please don’t let my review keep you from reading this book. What may have been a 3.5-star read for me may be a 5-star read for someone else. This book had great themes, family relationships, and faith elements!
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC of A Feeling of Home. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
June 26, 2022
This is book three of Redemption’s Light series. This can be read as a stand-alone.
In Toronto, 1944 the Bennington Place Maternity Home run by Ruth Bennington has secured its place as a haven for unwed mothers, with Dr. Mark Henshaw donating his services. In storms Isabelle Wardrop and demands he attend her dying mother. Things do not go well and her mother succumbs. On the heels of this devastating news, Isabelle and her sister, Marissa, lose more: their father dies, they lose their security and the only house they have ever known.
The author takes her characters through some rough times and shows that with their faith in God, they can accept help and grow through their reduced circumstances. Ms. Mason crafts a heroine who is selfless and willing to do what it takes when life throws her multiple curves, even humbly accepting help. Mark, as the hero, has sacrificed much for his younger brother, but realizes that even though he would like to help the destitute, he is spreading himself thin. Then Mark and Isabelle are thrown another curve that has them banding together.
I love the characters and how they weigh things in light of God’s word. Ms. Mason captures the emotions of unwed mothers and their life changing decisions. This was a glimpse into what life was like on the home front in Canada during WWII, the hardships and the joys.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
In Toronto, 1944 the Bennington Place Maternity Home run by Ruth Bennington has secured its place as a haven for unwed mothers, with Dr. Mark Henshaw donating his services. In storms Isabelle Wardrop and demands he attend her dying mother. Things do not go well and her mother succumbs. On the heels of this devastating news, Isabelle and her sister, Marissa, lose more: their father dies, they lose their security and the only house they have ever known.
The author takes her characters through some rough times and shows that with their faith in God, they can accept help and grow through their reduced circumstances. Ms. Mason crafts a heroine who is selfless and willing to do what it takes when life throws her multiple curves, even humbly accepting help. Mark, as the hero, has sacrificed much for his younger brother, but realizes that even though he would like to help the destitute, he is spreading himself thin. Then Mark and Isabelle are thrown another curve that has them banding together.
I love the characters and how they weigh things in light of God’s word. Ms. Mason captures the emotions of unwed mothers and their life changing decisions. This was a glimpse into what life was like on the home front in Canada during WWII, the hardships and the joys.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2022
What a wonderful conclusion to the Redemption’s Light series. Although it can be read as a stand-alone I suggest you won’t want to miss the previous books and getting to know recurring characters as I enjoyed the whole series. Ms Mason has a way of drawing you into the story and making you feel like you are part of the characters lives. I admired the strength and tenacity that Isabelle showed after losing her parents, her home, her finances, and then had to find a job to care for her younger sister. I loved that this series deals with a maternity home in 1944 and shows women have ethical options when given love and support. The Faith thread is woven in beautifully and shows that even in the midst of storms God is still with us working out a plan better than we can imagine. Forgiveness is a major theme as well as family and finding love. I hate to let this series go as I personally have enjoyed it from the beginning. I highly recommend reading and enjoying.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
July 6, 2022
At the very start of this story when circumstances cause Isabelle to blame Mark for her mother’s death, I was anxious to see how they would work out their differences. Conflict and growth ebb and flow throughout the story and finally love arrives. What a satisfying end to this series.
I really enjoyed the sweet romance combined with enjoyable personalities. This story ended the series in a very satisfying way with characters from the other books making final appearances.
Note: I received this book complimentary as a member of the author’s launch team. I was not required to give a positive review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are honest and my own.
I really enjoyed the sweet romance combined with enjoyable personalities. This story ended the series in a very satisfying way with characters from the other books making final appearances.
Note: I received this book complimentary as a member of the author’s launch team. I was not required to give a positive review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are honest and my own.
June 26, 2024
Als ambassadeur van Tijdloze Liefde en Uitgeverij Kokboekencentrum werd ik weer verrast met een nieuwe historische roman. Ditmaal van een schrijfster, waarvan ik nog niet eerder iets heb gelezen. De cover spreekt me erg aan en geeft me een historische roman gevoel de turquoise achtergrond met de blond vrouw in de rode jurk en rood gestifte lippen geven een mooi en warm contrast. Ik ben benieuwd..
In een zeer korte tijd stort het leven van Isabelle Wardrop compleet in. Binnen enkele maanden tijd verliest ze haar beide ouders, hun geld en huis en moet ze wanhopig op zoek naar een baan om de kosten voor haar zusje en zichzelf te kunnen dragen. De enige man die haar lijkt te kunnen helpen is Mark Henshaw. Alleen Isabelle houdt hem verantwoordelijk voor het overlijden van haar moeder. Mark heeft een grote bewondering voor Isabelle, hij heeft een schuldgevoel en wil niets liever dan het goedmaken door haar te helpen een nieuw leven op te bouwen. Dan komen het broertje van Mark en het zusje van Isabelle samen in de problemen, hierdoor wordt de kloof tussen Isabelle en Mark alleen maar groter. En dat terwijl ze elkaar zo hard nodig hebben..
Deze historische roman heeft me enorm weten te verrassen. Ik had verwacht om een mooi, meeslepend en wat tragisch liefdesverhaal te lezen, maar dit boek is zoveel meer.
Susan Anne Mason weet het tijdsbeeld van rond de Tweede Wereldoorlog en de sociale problematiek van deze tijd bijzonder mooi en goed in beeld te brengen. Ze schrijft daarnaast vlot en levendig en haar personages zijn met aandacht en diepgang neergezet. Met realistische en krachtige dialogen maakt ze het verhaal echt compleet.
We lezen het verhaal van Isabelle en Mark, maar Isabelle heeft zonder twijfel de hoofdrol. Doordat het verhaal start met de tragische gebeurtenis van de wanhoop van Isabelle om haar moeder te redden, wat mislukt, wordt je meegezogen in het verhaal. Susan Anne Mason heeft de personages divers neergezet en allemaal iets eigen en unieks te geven. Wat het verhaal erg krachtig maakt is dat ze niet enkel Isabelle en Mark diepgang geeft, maar ook Isabelles zusje Marissa, en het broertje van Mark, Josh, hebben diepgang.
Het verhaal is een aangrijpende, heftige en mooie historische roman. Het verhaal weet me te verrassen doordat het niet enkel een romantisch verhaal is. Maar ook de sociale problematiek van die tijd komt aan bod, de gezondheidszorg, de sociale klasse, maar ook ongehuwde zwangerschappen. Daarbij weet Susan Anne Mason op prachtige wijze thema's als rouw, liefde, vergeving en tweede kansen erg mooi in de verhaallijn te verwerken. Het is een sterke verhaallijn, die onverwachte wendingen en gebeurtenissen heeft, waarmee Susan Anne Mason je van het begin tot het einde in zijn greep weet te houden.
Terug naar Bennington Place is een originele, prachtige en indrukwekkende historische roman. Het is levendig en vlot geschreven en Susan Anne Mason weet het tijdsbeeld, de sociale problematiek maar ook de personages met enorm veel aandacht en finesse te beschrijven. Het verhaal heeft een verrassende en indrukwekkende verhaallijn met (plot)twisten en diepgang, daarbij zijn de thema's rouw, verdriet, vergeving, liefde en tweede kansen mooi in het verhaal verwerkt.
In een zeer korte tijd stort het leven van Isabelle Wardrop compleet in. Binnen enkele maanden tijd verliest ze haar beide ouders, hun geld en huis en moet ze wanhopig op zoek naar een baan om de kosten voor haar zusje en zichzelf te kunnen dragen. De enige man die haar lijkt te kunnen helpen is Mark Henshaw. Alleen Isabelle houdt hem verantwoordelijk voor het overlijden van haar moeder. Mark heeft een grote bewondering voor Isabelle, hij heeft een schuldgevoel en wil niets liever dan het goedmaken door haar te helpen een nieuw leven op te bouwen. Dan komen het broertje van Mark en het zusje van Isabelle samen in de problemen, hierdoor wordt de kloof tussen Isabelle en Mark alleen maar groter. En dat terwijl ze elkaar zo hard nodig hebben..
Deze historische roman heeft me enorm weten te verrassen. Ik had verwacht om een mooi, meeslepend en wat tragisch liefdesverhaal te lezen, maar dit boek is zoveel meer.
Susan Anne Mason weet het tijdsbeeld van rond de Tweede Wereldoorlog en de sociale problematiek van deze tijd bijzonder mooi en goed in beeld te brengen. Ze schrijft daarnaast vlot en levendig en haar personages zijn met aandacht en diepgang neergezet. Met realistische en krachtige dialogen maakt ze het verhaal echt compleet.
We lezen het verhaal van Isabelle en Mark, maar Isabelle heeft zonder twijfel de hoofdrol. Doordat het verhaal start met de tragische gebeurtenis van de wanhoop van Isabelle om haar moeder te redden, wat mislukt, wordt je meegezogen in het verhaal. Susan Anne Mason heeft de personages divers neergezet en allemaal iets eigen en unieks te geven. Wat het verhaal erg krachtig maakt is dat ze niet enkel Isabelle en Mark diepgang geeft, maar ook Isabelles zusje Marissa, en het broertje van Mark, Josh, hebben diepgang.
Het verhaal is een aangrijpende, heftige en mooie historische roman. Het verhaal weet me te verrassen doordat het niet enkel een romantisch verhaal is. Maar ook de sociale problematiek van die tijd komt aan bod, de gezondheidszorg, de sociale klasse, maar ook ongehuwde zwangerschappen. Daarbij weet Susan Anne Mason op prachtige wijze thema's als rouw, liefde, vergeving en tweede kansen erg mooi in de verhaallijn te verwerken. Het is een sterke verhaallijn, die onverwachte wendingen en gebeurtenissen heeft, waarmee Susan Anne Mason je van het begin tot het einde in zijn greep weet te houden.
Terug naar Bennington Place is een originele, prachtige en indrukwekkende historische roman. Het is levendig en vlot geschreven en Susan Anne Mason weet het tijdsbeeld, de sociale problematiek maar ook de personages met enorm veel aandacht en finesse te beschrijven. Het verhaal heeft een verrassende en indrukwekkende verhaallijn met (plot)twisten en diepgang, daarbij zijn de thema's rouw, verdriet, vergeving, liefde en tweede kansen mooi in het verhaal verwerkt.
August 4, 2023
4.5 stars
"After last night I doubt we'll need anything from you ever again."
Ultimatums are rarely a good thing, but grief makes people say things they later regret. Isabelle Waldrop scorned Dr. Mark Henshaw for remaining with his patient at the Bennington Place Maternity Home when her mother's life hung in the balance, and ultimately lost. Tragically, her mother's death was only the beginning of a downward spiral for Isabelle and her sister Marissa. Were it not for the kindness of a household servant, the two once wealthy young women would have faced homelessness.
"For me, being a doctor isn't simply a job or a way to make money. It's a vocation . .. a calling to serve my fellow citizens regardless of their social status."
Mark could scarcely believe his eyes when he literally collided with the lovely Isabelle Waldrop seeking employment as an hospital laundress. Surely things hadn't grown that dire, but apparently they had. Cautiously offering his help, Mark and Isabelle begin to forge a totally different kind of relationship . . . friends . .but could it become more? Apparently there were more obstacles in the way than either of them could have foreseen. His brother and her sister.
This story has such a luxurious word flow! Pairing humble circumstances with a desire to follow God's calling for their lives, the characters stutter and struggle against what at times seem to be insurmountable odds . . . except for faith. . . . and a humble spirit . . . and the courage to admit mistakes. . . perhaps multiple times. Thankfully the result being . . . that elusive feeling of home.
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
"After last night I doubt we'll need anything from you ever again."
Ultimatums are rarely a good thing, but grief makes people say things they later regret. Isabelle Waldrop scorned Dr. Mark Henshaw for remaining with his patient at the Bennington Place Maternity Home when her mother's life hung in the balance, and ultimately lost. Tragically, her mother's death was only the beginning of a downward spiral for Isabelle and her sister Marissa. Were it not for the kindness of a household servant, the two once wealthy young women would have faced homelessness.
"For me, being a doctor isn't simply a job or a way to make money. It's a vocation . .. a calling to serve my fellow citizens regardless of their social status."
Mark could scarcely believe his eyes when he literally collided with the lovely Isabelle Waldrop seeking employment as an hospital laundress. Surely things hadn't grown that dire, but apparently they had. Cautiously offering his help, Mark and Isabelle begin to forge a totally different kind of relationship . . . friends . .but could it become more? Apparently there were more obstacles in the way than either of them could have foreseen. His brother and her sister.
This story has such a luxurious word flow! Pairing humble circumstances with a desire to follow God's calling for their lives, the characters stutter and struggle against what at times seem to be insurmountable odds . . . except for faith. . . . and a humble spirit . . . and the courage to admit mistakes. . . perhaps multiple times. Thankfully the result being . . . that elusive feeling of home.
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
September 3, 2022
I liked this book fairly well. If wasn’t as good as book one in this series, but I did like it better than book two. I liked Mark in book one, and had hoped that he would be the main character of book two, so I’m glad he finally got his story! Because I’ve seen him in both books (at least I think he was in book two a little😳😅) I felt he had more depth than Isabelle. While I liked her, she felt almost two dimensional to me. I think it would have been better if we’d maybe seen her in her rich lifestyle more instead of just her after she was thrust into poverty. But I was super curious to see how this story played out for her and her sister! It was pretty well done, and I overall enjoyed it. 😊 I believe this is the authors last book with Bethany House, which is sad because I’ve loved all of her books, but I wish the best for her 🥹🥰
February 10, 2026
Why did the compassionate doctor have his eye on the snooty socialite? The leading lady had to lose her parents, home, and position in society before she became tolerable. Once she was properly humbled, she grew on me.
The leads were both responsible for their younger siblings. The drama involved was realistic and well played. The way the leads were forced to work together for the good of their siblings was wonderful.
I wasn’t expecting the abuse of a minor by an authority figure trope. Warning would have been nice. I didn’t appreciate that the minor was blamed. Surely the adult holds the most responsibility in such a sin (not a mere “mistake”), as they should know better.
The poor attitudes Isabelle and Mark took with each other especially beneath tense times did not bode well for the stresses of marriage. I found it challenging to root for them since they didn’t learn to treat each other better.
Content: suicide, tobacco, teen sex, teen pregnancy, Catholicism, sexual abuse of a minor by a choir director
The leads were both responsible for their younger siblings. The drama involved was realistic and well played. The way the leads were forced to work together for the good of their siblings was wonderful.
I wasn’t expecting the abuse of a minor by an authority figure trope. Warning would have been nice. I didn’t appreciate that the minor was blamed. Surely the adult holds the most responsibility in such a sin (not a mere “mistake”), as they should know better.
The poor attitudes Isabelle and Mark took with each other especially beneath tense times did not bode well for the stresses of marriage. I found it challenging to root for them since they didn’t learn to treat each other better.
Content: suicide, tobacco, teen sex, teen pregnancy, Catholicism, sexual abuse of a minor by a choir director
July 11, 2022
I enjoyed this historic novel very much and thought Mason has done a great job with bringing this story to life.
In my opinion this is the best one of the series so far. I do love this series. It's one of my favorites by her.
Isabella and Marissa had so much to overcome and I thought Mason brought their feelings and thoughts to the pages very well. I really enjoyed in getting to know them. I was proud of Isabella.
The cover is simply beautiful.
I couldn't put this book down until the end! I was sad it was over.
Mark was an awesome character too and I really appreciated how Susan rounded him out to be a most satisfying character. I liked that none of these characters were perfect. They all needed Him. We all need Him. Not any one of us can do it alone. I'm so thankful for Jesus. I don't know where I'd be without him. Do y'all?
I highly recommend. 5 stars for a very satisfying read.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
In my opinion this is the best one of the series so far. I do love this series. It's one of my favorites by her.
Isabella and Marissa had so much to overcome and I thought Mason brought their feelings and thoughts to the pages very well. I really enjoyed in getting to know them. I was proud of Isabella.
The cover is simply beautiful.
I couldn't put this book down until the end! I was sad it was over.
Mark was an awesome character too and I really appreciated how Susan rounded him out to be a most satisfying character. I liked that none of these characters were perfect. They all needed Him. We all need Him. Not any one of us can do it alone. I'm so thankful for Jesus. I don't know where I'd be without him. Do y'all?
I highly recommend. 5 stars for a very satisfying read.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
April 6, 2022
Isabelle's mother is dying of cancer and she's in a crisis, but the doctor doesn't get there in time to save her, so Isabelle gets angry.
Isabelle's father commits suicide because he is over-extended to the point of bankruptcy. The man working for her father who was soon to become her fiancé leaves her reeling. Isabelle gets angry again.
Isabelle's sister is hiding a secret and when the truth comes out, Isabelle gets angry--but not with her sister. She's angry with the boy her sister loves and his brother.
Mark Henshaw is the doctor to Isabelle's mother and the brother of the boy Isabelle's sister is in love with. He is also the target of Isabelle's anger. But, he gets angry at turns with his brother, with Isabelle's sister, and ultimately with Isabelle herself.
Somehow Isabelle and Mark are destined to fall in love and marry, but not without a few ups and downs along the way. It seems that they spend more time apart than in each other's company and what time they are together, they are angry with the other.
Susan Anne Mason has brought this series to a rather unsuccessful climax. This novel is not a very satisfying read because of all the time wasted by the characters being angry. The epilogue ties all the loose ends up nicely in a bow and gives closure to the series which will placate the reader somewhat. I just felt that this third novel in the series fell a bit flat.
There were a few things that surprised me about the book. It takes place during the waning years of World War II, but the draft wasn't mentioned at all in the book. Especially when Mark's younger brother would have been draft-able. He did eventually enlist, but not much was said about his time in the war. However that's not a bad thing. It wouldn't have added much to the plot if his Army service had been delineated.
It's a three star book for me, but that's not to say someone else won't enjoy it more. It just didn't hit the mark for me.
Bethany House and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
Isabelle's father commits suicide because he is over-extended to the point of bankruptcy. The man working for her father who was soon to become her fiancé leaves her reeling. Isabelle gets angry again.
Isabelle's sister is hiding a secret and when the truth comes out, Isabelle gets angry--but not with her sister. She's angry with the boy her sister loves and his brother.
Mark Henshaw is the doctor to Isabelle's mother and the brother of the boy Isabelle's sister is in love with. He is also the target of Isabelle's anger. But, he gets angry at turns with his brother, with Isabelle's sister, and ultimately with Isabelle herself.
Somehow Isabelle and Mark are destined to fall in love and marry, but not without a few ups and downs along the way. It seems that they spend more time apart than in each other's company and what time they are together, they are angry with the other.
Susan Anne Mason has brought this series to a rather unsuccessful climax. This novel is not a very satisfying read because of all the time wasted by the characters being angry. The epilogue ties all the loose ends up nicely in a bow and gives closure to the series which will placate the reader somewhat. I just felt that this third novel in the series fell a bit flat.
There were a few things that surprised me about the book. It takes place during the waning years of World War II, but the draft wasn't mentioned at all in the book. Especially when Mark's younger brother would have been draft-able. He did eventually enlist, but not much was said about his time in the war. However that's not a bad thing. It wouldn't have added much to the plot if his Army service had been delineated.
It's a three star book for me, but that's not to say someone else won't enjoy it more. It just didn't hit the mark for me.
Bethany House and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
March 22, 2023
4.5
Bardzo szybko i przyjemnie mi się ją czytało 🙌🏻 Co prawda baaaardzo nie polubiłam siostry głównej bohaterki, która mnie bardzo denerwowała swoim zachowaniem, a jako że było jej dość dużo i spora część fabuły krążyła wokół jej wątku to chwilami miałam ochotę przestać czytać 😅 pokochałam za to Isabelle i Marka i ich wątek ❤ No i ta końcówka! Cudo!
Bardzo szybko i przyjemnie mi się ją czytało 🙌🏻 Co prawda baaaardzo nie polubiłam siostry głównej bohaterki, która mnie bardzo denerwowała swoim zachowaniem, a jako że było jej dość dużo i spora część fabuły krążyła wokół jej wątku to chwilami miałam ochotę przestać czytać 😅 pokochałam za to Isabelle i Marka i ich wątek ❤ No i ta końcówka! Cudo!
July 2, 2022
This is a wonderful historical novel.
I love the main characters in this book. There are a number of very important characters not just the four that I consider the main ones.
From the very beginning my heart went out to Isabelle Wardrop and her sister Marissa. I can’t even imagine the heartache and confusion they were going through as they tried to piece their lives back together. I was amazed at the strength of character that Isabelle displayed in the aftermath of tragedy.
Mark Henshaw was also an amazingly strong character with a heart to help others. He definitely had some flaws, but don’t we all. Alongside Mark was his brother Josh. I understood the struggles that existed between them as they were dealing with their relationship as brothers as well as guardian and ward.
I loved seeing how many people stepped up beside Isabelle and Marissa and worked to help them through a very trying period. The individual journey’s of growth and maturity that all four of the main characters had to take were very intertwined and yet at the same time different.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
I love the main characters in this book. There are a number of very important characters not just the four that I consider the main ones.
From the very beginning my heart went out to Isabelle Wardrop and her sister Marissa. I can’t even imagine the heartache and confusion they were going through as they tried to piece their lives back together. I was amazed at the strength of character that Isabelle displayed in the aftermath of tragedy.
Mark Henshaw was also an amazingly strong character with a heart to help others. He definitely had some flaws, but don’t we all. Alongside Mark was his brother Josh. I understood the struggles that existed between them as they were dealing with their relationship as brothers as well as guardian and ward.
I loved seeing how many people stepped up beside Isabelle and Marissa and worked to help them through a very trying period. The individual journey’s of growth and maturity that all four of the main characters had to take were very intertwined and yet at the same time different.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
July 22, 2022
Mason has managed to create an touching story with her latest in the Redemption's Light series. A Feeling of Home is a tender tale of healing, courage, restoration, and forgiveness. Following in the footsteps of the previous two books in the series, Mason addresses issues of unplanned pregnancy, social prejudice, and the fight for justice.
I am so sad to see this series come to an end. I have loved every book in this trilogy, and Mason has finished it up with a beautiful story that completely ensnared me. I could hardly put the book down! Mason's storytelling is highly recommended!
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I am so sad to see this series come to an end. I have loved every book in this trilogy, and Mason has finished it up with a beautiful story that completely ensnared me. I could hardly put the book down! Mason's storytelling is highly recommended!
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
May 5, 2022
A Feeling of Home by Susan Anne Mason will have you curling up in your favourite "reading" spot and savouring every word.
Isabelle Wardrop and her sister Marissa have lost everything - their parents, home, and fortune. Both girls are taken in by a former servant in a less than desirable part of the city. Their positions in society downgraded overnight. It is up to Isabelle to find a way to survive in a world utterly foreign to them.
Enter Mark Henshaw, their former doctor. He rescues Isabelle more than once during this absorbing tale. I loved how both were dealing with the unexplainable actions of their siblings. The lesson is that you cannot control the activities of others no matter how hard you try. You can also give advice until the cows come home, but if someone isn't willing to listen, you just have to wait on God and see how everything will play out. Trust not only in God but in each other was brilliantly portrayed in the relationships of these characters.
The novel's strength lies in the author's ability to bring faith in God into the picture (without being preachy). Showing kindness, mercy and grace instead of judging others is always a balm for the soul.
While this book can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend you read the other books in the series. A Haven for Her Heart and To Find Her Place, just because the stories are good and address critical issues. I loved how the author brought Olivia, Ruth and Darius back from the first book. It was beautiful to connect with them again. I highly recommend this book!
I received a review copy courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley for my honest review.
Isabelle Wardrop and her sister Marissa have lost everything - their parents, home, and fortune. Both girls are taken in by a former servant in a less than desirable part of the city. Their positions in society downgraded overnight. It is up to Isabelle to find a way to survive in a world utterly foreign to them.
Enter Mark Henshaw, their former doctor. He rescues Isabelle more than once during this absorbing tale. I loved how both were dealing with the unexplainable actions of their siblings. The lesson is that you cannot control the activities of others no matter how hard you try. You can also give advice until the cows come home, but if someone isn't willing to listen, you just have to wait on God and see how everything will play out. Trust not only in God but in each other was brilliantly portrayed in the relationships of these characters.
The novel's strength lies in the author's ability to bring faith in God into the picture (without being preachy). Showing kindness, mercy and grace instead of judging others is always a balm for the soul.
While this book can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend you read the other books in the series. A Haven for Her Heart and To Find Her Place, just because the stories are good and address critical issues. I loved how the author brought Olivia, Ruth and Darius back from the first book. It was beautiful to connect with them again. I highly recommend this book!
I received a review copy courtesy of Bethany House through NetGalley for my honest review.
July 6, 2022
A Feeling of Home by Susan Anne Mason returns readers to Canada and the house owned by Ruth and Olivia, whose stories are told in the first two books in the series. With the lose of their parents and their lifestyle, Isabelle and her younger sister Marissa are thrown into a world they have never encountered before. The plot is sweet and moving while the romance is a typical romance for a historical romance or any genre for that matter. Deny the feelings. Reality check. Someone does something to make the other person upset, then the romance goes to the side. But then they reconcile and everything moves back toward the happily-ever-after moment. The strongest point of the novel is Mason’s idea of being nice to everyone no matter what situation they find themselves currently in because you do not know what happened to put them in that position. Everyone deserves another chance or 70 because it is everyone’s duty to love others. Overall, A Feeling of Home by Susan Anne Mason is a sweet story that reminds readers that home is not the physical place you reside in, but where the love and support of others develop and encircle you. Definitely a delightful story filled with a memorable lesson.
I received a complimentary copy of A Feeling of Home by Susan Anne Mason from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of A Feeling of Home by Susan Anne Mason from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.
July 1, 2023
A Feeling of Home
This novel was enjoyable, though rather predictable it had some unexpected twists. The historical aspect was not the main focus. It was a character driven story dealing with real life situations. The characters were believable and well portrayed. It was a two day read for me. I would read another novel by Susan Mason, but usually I want a bit more about the historical aspect of the story. This story seemed more about struggles with societies financial pigeon holes of WW2 era. I wish they allowed half stars since this was a 3 1/2 star read for me. Thanks to Bethany House and Net Galley for this advance review copy. I will add a review to Amazon on July 5.
This novel was enjoyable, though rather predictable it had some unexpected twists. The historical aspect was not the main focus. It was a character driven story dealing with real life situations. The characters were believable and well portrayed. It was a two day read for me. I would read another novel by Susan Mason, but usually I want a bit more about the historical aspect of the story. This story seemed more about struggles with societies financial pigeon holes of WW2 era. I wish they allowed half stars since this was a 3 1/2 star read for me. Thanks to Bethany House and Net Galley for this advance review copy. I will add a review to Amazon on July 5.
July 5, 2022
What a wonderful and deeply inspiring Historical Romance!
The last book in the Redemption’s Light Series surpassed my expectations in this touching story full of family drama and courage in the midst of loss and pain! So many lessons to be learned from these admirable characters! Isabelle and Mark’s journey was not an easy one, yet it was an inspiring and beautiful one in many ways!
Isabell Wardrop’s life has changed completely in the span of a couple of months. Her mother dies, and two months later her father passes away and leaves them with a mountain of debts for which they have to leave the house and everything valuable in it for the bank. Taken in by the aunt of one of her maids, Isabelle must find work to make ends meet and save money for her sister Marisa’s education and future college studies. So, when Dr. Mark Henshaw offers to help her get a decent job in a hotel, she hesitates but finally accepts his help, even if she previously blamed him for her mother’s death. But would he really been able to keep her from dying if he had been able to assist her?
Mark was helping a woman with a life risking pregnancy when Isabelle came to ask for help. When he finally could finally assist her, it was already too late, and Isabelle was unforgiving. Mark has lately admired Isabelle, and would have liked to court her, if not for the tragic incident of her mother’s death. So, when tragedy strikes again and he discovers Isabelle’s father passed away too and that she and her sister are homeless, he tries to make amends by helping her find a job. Soon, they both find out they have so much in common, as they both have teenage siblings’ they must take responsibility for. What they never expect is for their siblings to form a friendship with one another. Josh and Marisa, Mark and Isabelle’s younger brother and sister respectively. They both agree that their siblings have too much at stake in their future studies to be distracted by an infatuation. But when surprising news arrive, in way of a proposal from a previous suitor, and regarding their siblings’ relationship, Isabelle and Mark must pray about the new steps they need to make. But can helping their siblings be compatible with the desires of their hearts, or will they have to sacrifice their dreams of true love for the good of their family?
A deeply touching and compelling story that left me feeling inspired! I totally felt in love with this couple! I guess they felt so relatable because I’m also the eldest sibling. Although I’m not an orphan, I know what it is to worry about a sibling when you see they are veering off the right path. So, I was very empathetic to both of their plight. It’s not easy to be understanding when you see them make mistakes. But we have to learn that sometimes we can’t prevent them from failing, but we do have to be there to help them get up and start anew. I loved Olivia’s advice to Mark regarding Josh, about being there and listening to his story, his fears. My heart ached for all the trials they had to go through because of being orphaned so young. To bear such responsibility at such a young age was a huge weight on their hearts. And it took its toll. But I admired them all the more. Mark and Isabelle were both selfless in these aspects, thinking first of others instead of themselves. You could see God gave them the inner strength they needed to face such setbacks in their lives. I was so sad when Mark was coerced to stop visiting the Maternity Home and the slums, because helping those people wasn’t good for the Hospital’s Prestige. I was so happy when things turned out for the better for Mark in that regard. The romance was so sweet! It definitely was a beautiful story with beautiful characters that inspired me. I also loved the ending. I didn’t want to part with the characters, the main and secondary as well. Redemption’s Light is a beautiful series that shines the light of God’s Unconditional Love to us in the midst of the storms of life! This book will stay with me for a long time!
I highly recommend this story to Historical Romance Lovers! I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
The last book in the Redemption’s Light Series surpassed my expectations in this touching story full of family drama and courage in the midst of loss and pain! So many lessons to be learned from these admirable characters! Isabelle and Mark’s journey was not an easy one, yet it was an inspiring and beautiful one in many ways!
Isabell Wardrop’s life has changed completely in the span of a couple of months. Her mother dies, and two months later her father passes away and leaves them with a mountain of debts for which they have to leave the house and everything valuable in it for the bank. Taken in by the aunt of one of her maids, Isabelle must find work to make ends meet and save money for her sister Marisa’s education and future college studies. So, when Dr. Mark Henshaw offers to help her get a decent job in a hotel, she hesitates but finally accepts his help, even if she previously blamed him for her mother’s death. But would he really been able to keep her from dying if he had been able to assist her?
Mark was helping a woman with a life risking pregnancy when Isabelle came to ask for help. When he finally could finally assist her, it was already too late, and Isabelle was unforgiving. Mark has lately admired Isabelle, and would have liked to court her, if not for the tragic incident of her mother’s death. So, when tragedy strikes again and he discovers Isabelle’s father passed away too and that she and her sister are homeless, he tries to make amends by helping her find a job. Soon, they both find out they have so much in common, as they both have teenage siblings’ they must take responsibility for. What they never expect is for their siblings to form a friendship with one another. Josh and Marisa, Mark and Isabelle’s younger brother and sister respectively. They both agree that their siblings have too much at stake in their future studies to be distracted by an infatuation. But when surprising news arrive, in way of a proposal from a previous suitor, and regarding their siblings’ relationship, Isabelle and Mark must pray about the new steps they need to make. But can helping their siblings be compatible with the desires of their hearts, or will they have to sacrifice their dreams of true love for the good of their family?
A deeply touching and compelling story that left me feeling inspired! I totally felt in love with this couple! I guess they felt so relatable because I’m also the eldest sibling. Although I’m not an orphan, I know what it is to worry about a sibling when you see they are veering off the right path. So, I was very empathetic to both of their plight. It’s not easy to be understanding when you see them make mistakes. But we have to learn that sometimes we can’t prevent them from failing, but we do have to be there to help them get up and start anew. I loved Olivia’s advice to Mark regarding Josh, about being there and listening to his story, his fears. My heart ached for all the trials they had to go through because of being orphaned so young. To bear such responsibility at such a young age was a huge weight on their hearts. And it took its toll. But I admired them all the more. Mark and Isabelle were both selfless in these aspects, thinking first of others instead of themselves. You could see God gave them the inner strength they needed to face such setbacks in their lives. I was so sad when Mark was coerced to stop visiting the Maternity Home and the slums, because helping those people wasn’t good for the Hospital’s Prestige. I was so happy when things turned out for the better for Mark in that regard. The romance was so sweet! It definitely was a beautiful story with beautiful characters that inspired me. I also loved the ending. I didn’t want to part with the characters, the main and secondary as well. Redemption’s Light is a beautiful series that shines the light of God’s Unconditional Love to us in the midst of the storms of life! This book will stay with me for a long time!
I highly recommend this story to Historical Romance Lovers! I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
March 10, 2023
„Kobieta, gdy raz postanowi coś i sercem stanie przy swej myśli, w wykonaniu jest upartszą, zaciętszą od mężczyzny.”
- Józef Ignacy Kraszewski
Po raz kolejny było mi dane sięgnąć po książkę autorki, z którą wcześniej nie miałam styczności. Skłonił mnie do tego opis, po przeczytaniu którego, byłam pewna, że poznam historię silnej kobiety, która potrafi poradzić sobie z wszelkimi niedogodnościami. Fakt, że akcja osadzona została w latach 40. minionego wieku, utwierdził mnie w przekonaniu, że to powieść w sam raz dla mnie. Moje przeczucia i tym razem mnie nie zawiodły.
Isabelle Wardrop wychowywana była przez zamożnych rodziców. Niczego jej nie brakowało. Obracała się w najlepszym towarzystwie, zajmowała dobroczynnością i nie musiała niczym przejmować.
Kiedy po śmierci rodziców, okazało się, że razem z młodszą siostrą muszą opuścić dom rodzinny, wszystko stanęło na głowie. Wyrzucone na bruk panny, które dotychczas opływały w luksusy, muszą zmierzyć się z biedą i nauczyć radzić sobie w nowych warunkach.
Na szczęście z pomocą przychodzi im ich dotychczasowa pokojówka, która daje im dach nad głową i pozwala zamieszkać u swojej ciotki.
Od tej pory Isabelle musi radzić sobie, jak tylko potrafi, aby utrzymać siebie i siostrę, która wciąż uczęszcza do szkoły. Przy pomocy rodzinnego lekarza, który od dawna darzył ją szacunkiem, znajduje pracę i rozpoczyna samodzielne dorosłe życie.
Niestety to nie koniec trudności, z którymi przyjdzie się mierzyć młodej kobiecie.
Jakie przeciwności losu staną na drodze panien Wardrop? I jak sobie z nimi poradzą?
„Wymarzony dom” to naprawdę wspaniała powieść obyczajowa o stracie i podniesieniu się po niej, różnych odcieniach miłości, sile przyjaźni, a także niezłomności kobiet.
Wszystkie przedstawione w powieści kobiety to silne postacie, które pomimo przeciwności losu potrafiły poradzić sobie i ułożyć życie. Pokazana jest tutaj pięknie kobieca solidarność.
Jednym z głównych wątków opisanych w książce, jest Dom Samotnej Matki, z którym w różny sposób związani są bohaterowie.
Akcja powieści toczy się w 1944 r. w Kanadzie. Muszę przyznać, że brakowało mi tutaj odniesienia do II wojny światowej. Wspomniana została zaledwie dwukrotnie. Za pierwszym razem, kiedy któraś z drugoplanowych postaci wspomniała, o straceniu w niej bliskiej osoby, i za drugim, gdy brat doktora zaciąga się do wojska. W moim odczuciu było to jednak zbyt mało, zważywszy na wagę tego wydarzenia.
Autorka opisuje swój styl literacki jako „romanse okraszone wiarą”. Nie ma jednak powodów do niepokoju, nawet jeśli nie przepada się za motywem wiary w literaturze. Wspomniana „okrasa” to nic innego jak, uczynienie postaci wierzącymi w Boga, przez co kilkakrotnie, w trudnych chwilach się do niego zwracają. Nie jest to jednak nachalne i w żadnej sposób nie dominuje.
W moim odczuciu, powieści bliżej do obyczajówki z romantycznym wątkiem, niż do czystego romansu, gdyż głównym motywem jest przede wszystkim walka o przetrwanie kobiet w nowej rzeczywistości.
Nie do końca potrafiłam odnaleźć się w ramach czasowych, które zostały przedstawione w powieści. Wszystko wydawało mi się zbyt nowoczesne. Ilość osób posiadających samochód i telefon była niewiarygodna. Możliwe, że wynika to z tego, że bliższa jest mi europejska rzeczywistość z tamtych czasów, a kanadyjskiej po prostu nie znam.
Myślę, że „Wymarzony Dom” to książka, którą warto poznać. Jest to kontynuacja „Przystani dla jej serca”, która opowiada o założycielkach Domu Samotnej Matki, które spotykamy również na kartach tej powieści. Nie ma jednak konieczności znajomości pierwszej części, sięgając po historię Isabelle.
Serdecznie polecam.
[Współpraca z wydawnictwem Dreams]
- Józef Ignacy Kraszewski
Po raz kolejny było mi dane sięgnąć po książkę autorki, z którą wcześniej nie miałam styczności. Skłonił mnie do tego opis, po przeczytaniu którego, byłam pewna, że poznam historię silnej kobiety, która potrafi poradzić sobie z wszelkimi niedogodnościami. Fakt, że akcja osadzona została w latach 40. minionego wieku, utwierdził mnie w przekonaniu, że to powieść w sam raz dla mnie. Moje przeczucia i tym razem mnie nie zawiodły.
Isabelle Wardrop wychowywana była przez zamożnych rodziców. Niczego jej nie brakowało. Obracała się w najlepszym towarzystwie, zajmowała dobroczynnością i nie musiała niczym przejmować.
Kiedy po śmierci rodziców, okazało się, że razem z młodszą siostrą muszą opuścić dom rodzinny, wszystko stanęło na głowie. Wyrzucone na bruk panny, które dotychczas opływały w luksusy, muszą zmierzyć się z biedą i nauczyć radzić sobie w nowych warunkach.
Na szczęście z pomocą przychodzi im ich dotychczasowa pokojówka, która daje im dach nad głową i pozwala zamieszkać u swojej ciotki.
Od tej pory Isabelle musi radzić sobie, jak tylko potrafi, aby utrzymać siebie i siostrę, która wciąż uczęszcza do szkoły. Przy pomocy rodzinnego lekarza, który od dawna darzył ją szacunkiem, znajduje pracę i rozpoczyna samodzielne dorosłe życie.
Niestety to nie koniec trudności, z którymi przyjdzie się mierzyć młodej kobiecie.
Jakie przeciwności losu staną na drodze panien Wardrop? I jak sobie z nimi poradzą?
„Wymarzony dom” to naprawdę wspaniała powieść obyczajowa o stracie i podniesieniu się po niej, różnych odcieniach miłości, sile przyjaźni, a także niezłomności kobiet.
Wszystkie przedstawione w powieści kobiety to silne postacie, które pomimo przeciwności losu potrafiły poradzić sobie i ułożyć życie. Pokazana jest tutaj pięknie kobieca solidarność.
Jednym z głównych wątków opisanych w książce, jest Dom Samotnej Matki, z którym w różny sposób związani są bohaterowie.
Akcja powieści toczy się w 1944 r. w Kanadzie. Muszę przyznać, że brakowało mi tutaj odniesienia do II wojny światowej. Wspomniana została zaledwie dwukrotnie. Za pierwszym razem, kiedy któraś z drugoplanowych postaci wspomniała, o straceniu w niej bliskiej osoby, i za drugim, gdy brat doktora zaciąga się do wojska. W moim odczuciu było to jednak zbyt mało, zważywszy na wagę tego wydarzenia.
Autorka opisuje swój styl literacki jako „romanse okraszone wiarą”. Nie ma jednak powodów do niepokoju, nawet jeśli nie przepada się za motywem wiary w literaturze. Wspomniana „okrasa” to nic innego jak, uczynienie postaci wierzącymi w Boga, przez co kilkakrotnie, w trudnych chwilach się do niego zwracają. Nie jest to jednak nachalne i w żadnej sposób nie dominuje.
W moim odczuciu, powieści bliżej do obyczajówki z romantycznym wątkiem, niż do czystego romansu, gdyż głównym motywem jest przede wszystkim walka o przetrwanie kobiet w nowej rzeczywistości.
Nie do końca potrafiłam odnaleźć się w ramach czasowych, które zostały przedstawione w powieści. Wszystko wydawało mi się zbyt nowoczesne. Ilość osób posiadających samochód i telefon była niewiarygodna. Możliwe, że wynika to z tego, że bliższa jest mi europejska rzeczywistość z tamtych czasów, a kanadyjskiej po prostu nie znam.
Myślę, że „Wymarzony Dom” to książka, którą warto poznać. Jest to kontynuacja „Przystani dla jej serca”, która opowiada o założycielkach Domu Samotnej Matki, które spotykamy również na kartach tej powieści. Nie ma jednak konieczności znajomości pierwszej części, sięgając po historię Isabelle.
Serdecznie polecam.
[Współpraca z wydawnictwem Dreams]
May 8, 2023
To moje pierwsze spotkanie z twórczością autorki, słyszałam o jej wcześniejszych powieściach jednak nie miałam okazji żadnej przeczytać. Postanowiłam to zmienić za sprawą książki "Wymarzony dom", która jest trzecim tomem serii #światłodkupienia. Do sięgnięcia po historię Isabelle i Marka zachęcił mnie interesujący opis i ładna, klimatyczna okładka. Stylistyka i język jakim posługuje się autorka jest bardzo lekki i przyjemny co sprawia, że książkę czyta się niezwykle szybko. Ja pochłonęłam tą powieść w jeden wieczór i z ogromnym zainteresowaniem i zaangażowaniem śledziłam losy bohaterów. Muszę przyznać, że nie odłożyłam książki póki nie poznałam zakończenia tej historii! Fabuła została w bardzo interesujący sposób nakreślona, przemyślana i równie dobrze poprowadzona, a bohaterowie naprawdę świetnie wykreowani, myślę że mimo dzielących nas lat i okoliczności śmiało moglibyśmy się utożsamić w wielu kwestiach z postaciami tej powieści, podzielając podobne troski i dylematy moralne. Razem z bohaterami przenosimy się do Kanady lat czterdziestych XX wieku, autorka w niesamocie barwny i plastyczny sposób opisuje realia tamtych czasów, wielokrotnie miałam nawet wrażenie jakbym towarzyszyła bohaterom we wszystkich wydarzeniach. Historia została przedstawiona z perspektywy obojga bohaterów, co pozwoliło mi lepiej ich poznać dowiedzieć się co czują, myślą, z czym się borykają, a tym samym mogłam lepiej zrozumieć ich postępowanie oraz decyzję. Każda z kluczowych postaci tej powieści całkowicie skradła moje serce - Isabelle - niezależna, odważna, odpowiedzialna i Mark - troskliwy, inteligentny, empatyczny oraz ich rodzeństwo, które również boryka się z wieloma przeciwnościami losu. Relacja pomiędzy głównymi bohaterami została w bardzo ciekawy sposób przedstawiona, czuć było pomiędzy nimi wyraźne przyciąganie, a momentami można było się wręcz rozczulić obserwując niektóre gesty i słowa występujące pomiędzy Isabelle i Markiem. Muszę przyznać, że całą sobą chłonęłam emocje towarzyszące bohaterom - martwiłam się, kibicowałam i wspierałam ich w każdej chwili. Chciałam by w końcu byli szczęśliwi.... Autorka w swojej powieści porusza wiele ważnych, życiowych i ponadczasowych tematów: utrata bliskiej osoby, żałoba, samotne macierzyństwo, czy też uprzedzenia społeczne. Wszystko to wywolalo we mnie lawinę emocji! Pisarka udowadnia, że prawdziwy i wymarzony dom nie jest tam gdzie budynek, a tam gdzie znajdują się kochający, wspierający i troszczący się o siebie ludzie. Cudownie spędziłam czas z tą książką i czekam na kolejne powieści spod pióra autorki! Polecam!
August 7, 2022
Susan Anne Mason has come to be one of my favorite writers for character-driven historical Christian fiction. A Feeling of Home transported me to 1940’s Toronto, Canada and packed an emotional punch with heart-wrenching family dilemmas and a sweet romance. Isabelle Wardrop and Dr. Mark Henshaw both experience profound loss and have the responsibility of caring for a younger sibling. As an attraction grows between them, the choices their siblings make directly impact their relationship. With so many forces seemingly aligned against them, will they find the happiness and feeling of home they both long for again?
I enjoyed the emotional pull of this story. Isabelle is a strong-willed yet compassionate character who at first seemed like a spoiled, obnoxious socialite, but when her parents both die and she’s left penniless, she has to grow up quickly. I admired her persistence and willingness to sacrifice for her sister. She undergoes a massive transformation throughout the story and it was enjoyable watching her find hidden talents and strength.
Dr. Mark Henshaw is a caring, thoughtful, forgiving person. Despite the way Isabelle treats him at first, he understands where she’s coming from and forgives her behavior. I loved watching their relationship grow from friendship to more. Their siblings cause an awful lot of issues and while I predicted some things, there were some definite twists that added quite a bit of drama. The constant push and pull between Isabelle and Mark was almost too much at some points. Isabelle’s sister frustrated me, but her age and immaturity made her actions understandable.
The historical aspects of the story were interesting. I didn’t know much about how Canadians viewed WWII and it was fascinating to realize attitude differences compared with the United States. It was also interesting to learn about the polio outbreaks and sanitation issues in lower class neighborhoods, as well as how Dr. Henshaw’s work with unwed mothers impacted his career.
This book can definitely be read as a standalone. Although I hadn’t read the previous two books, I didn’t feel like I was missing anything and look forward to reading them. If you enjoy well written character-driven stories with plenty of drama and a sweet, tender romance, I recommend adding this book to your list. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through LibraryThing. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
I enjoyed the emotional pull of this story. Isabelle is a strong-willed yet compassionate character who at first seemed like a spoiled, obnoxious socialite, but when her parents both die and she’s left penniless, she has to grow up quickly. I admired her persistence and willingness to sacrifice for her sister. She undergoes a massive transformation throughout the story and it was enjoyable watching her find hidden talents and strength.
Dr. Mark Henshaw is a caring, thoughtful, forgiving person. Despite the way Isabelle treats him at first, he understands where she’s coming from and forgives her behavior. I loved watching their relationship grow from friendship to more. Their siblings cause an awful lot of issues and while I predicted some things, there were some definite twists that added quite a bit of drama. The constant push and pull between Isabelle and Mark was almost too much at some points. Isabelle’s sister frustrated me, but her age and immaturity made her actions understandable.
The historical aspects of the story were interesting. I didn’t know much about how Canadians viewed WWII and it was fascinating to realize attitude differences compared with the United States. It was also interesting to learn about the polio outbreaks and sanitation issues in lower class neighborhoods, as well as how Dr. Henshaw’s work with unwed mothers impacted his career.
This book can definitely be read as a standalone. Although I hadn’t read the previous two books, I didn’t feel like I was missing anything and look forward to reading them. If you enjoy well written character-driven stories with plenty of drama and a sweet, tender romance, I recommend adding this book to your list. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through LibraryThing. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
April 5, 2022
This was a sweet book about family and learning to trust God. A Feeling of Home is the third book in Susan Anne Mason’s Redemption’s Light series. I was excited to read this book and it was a lovely read.
I had a harder time connecting with Isabelle. There were times where she felt a bit childish and selfish, but as the book grew on I learned to understand her. Isabelle Wardrop’s life had changed so suddenly, she lost her parents, her home, and her fortune. She was doing all she could to survive and care for her younger sister, Marissa. Isabelle was trying her best and it was sweet to read about her trying to provide for her sister. Isabelle grew a lot as she learned to work hard and to trust God. However sometimes surprises come and Isabelle will have to learn to rest in God’s plans and protection.
Mark was a kind guy. He was a doctor and he just wanted to help others. Mark was also an interesting character. He was trying his best to raise his younger brother but it was not always easy. Mark had to wrestle with himself and his younger brother, Josh at times. However I loved how Mark strived to be kind and understanding. He had to learn though to give Josh to God and let go of the control he so desperately craved. He also had to learn that God was faithful no matter what.
Mark and Isabelle both had their faults, but they were able to balance each other out. The romance was sweet, I liked the progression of it. There were times where it felt a bit fast but I think that it fit the book. I also liked how this book didn’t just focus on romance but also on trusting God and helping to care for unwed mothers. There were many wonderful themes that this book pointed to.
The characters in these stories had faults and made mistakes but God was faithful. It was wonderful to read of the characters growing and trusting God. A Feeling of Home is a great book. It is best read in its series but it can be read standalone. I would recommend it to those who enjoy Christian historical romance. A Feeling of Home is a Christian historical romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
I had a harder time connecting with Isabelle. There were times where she felt a bit childish and selfish, but as the book grew on I learned to understand her. Isabelle Wardrop’s life had changed so suddenly, she lost her parents, her home, and her fortune. She was doing all she could to survive and care for her younger sister, Marissa. Isabelle was trying her best and it was sweet to read about her trying to provide for her sister. Isabelle grew a lot as she learned to work hard and to trust God. However sometimes surprises come and Isabelle will have to learn to rest in God’s plans and protection.
Mark was a kind guy. He was a doctor and he just wanted to help others. Mark was also an interesting character. He was trying his best to raise his younger brother but it was not always easy. Mark had to wrestle with himself and his younger brother, Josh at times. However I loved how Mark strived to be kind and understanding. He had to learn though to give Josh to God and let go of the control he so desperately craved. He also had to learn that God was faithful no matter what.
Mark and Isabelle both had their faults, but they were able to balance each other out. The romance was sweet, I liked the progression of it. There were times where it felt a bit fast but I think that it fit the book. I also liked how this book didn’t just focus on romance but also on trusting God and helping to care for unwed mothers. There were many wonderful themes that this book pointed to.
The characters in these stories had faults and made mistakes but God was faithful. It was wonderful to read of the characters growing and trusting God. A Feeling of Home is a great book. It is best read in its series but it can be read standalone. I would recommend it to those who enjoy Christian historical romance. A Feeling of Home is a Christian historical romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
May 22, 2022
This book was a rewarding conclusion to Susan Ann Mason’s Redemption’s Light series.
When Isabelle loses first her mother, then her father, then her home and all the stability from her life, she finds she’s much stronger than she thought. She also recognizes her own flaws and realizes some of the mistakes she had made— like blaming Dr. Mark Henshaw for her mother’s death. It turns out Mark is still her friend, even after how she treated him, and proves himself when her other friends disappear. And she never could have imagined how much they would have in common… orphans raising their teenage siblings. Isabelle and Mark unite to try to help both her sister Marissa and his brother Josh make the best choices, but when everything seems to fall apart, they eventually realize they need to rely on God— not their own strength.
I really liked Isabelle’s journey of finding her inner strength and finding her rock in Christ in this story. And Isabelle and Mark’s love story had some of the sweetest moments! Of course, there were a couple times where I wanted to throttle both of them… the mark of well-done, realistic characters! I’m so glad Mark finally got his happy ending. I enjoyed visiting with Olivia, Ruth, and Jane from the previous stories. Aunt Rosie and Fiona were such good secondary characters! Ah, Josh and Marissa. Teenagers making bad choices and being overly stubborn and… growing up before my eyes as I turned the pages. Their ending is equally rewarding as the one between Isabelle and Mark.
If you like stories where the characters really grow, you’ll love this book! Also recommended for any lovers of historical fiction/romance (the series is set in WWII era Toronto). Not necessary to have read the other two first, but more rewarding if you do.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bethany House for the privilege of reading this book for review. My opinions are my own.
When Isabelle loses first her mother, then her father, then her home and all the stability from her life, she finds she’s much stronger than she thought. She also recognizes her own flaws and realizes some of the mistakes she had made— like blaming Dr. Mark Henshaw for her mother’s death. It turns out Mark is still her friend, even after how she treated him, and proves himself when her other friends disappear. And she never could have imagined how much they would have in common… orphans raising their teenage siblings. Isabelle and Mark unite to try to help both her sister Marissa and his brother Josh make the best choices, but when everything seems to fall apart, they eventually realize they need to rely on God— not their own strength.
I really liked Isabelle’s journey of finding her inner strength and finding her rock in Christ in this story. And Isabelle and Mark’s love story had some of the sweetest moments! Of course, there were a couple times where I wanted to throttle both of them… the mark of well-done, realistic characters! I’m so glad Mark finally got his happy ending. I enjoyed visiting with Olivia, Ruth, and Jane from the previous stories. Aunt Rosie and Fiona were such good secondary characters! Ah, Josh and Marissa. Teenagers making bad choices and being overly stubborn and… growing up before my eyes as I turned the pages. Their ending is equally rewarding as the one between Isabelle and Mark.
If you like stories where the characters really grow, you’ll love this book! Also recommended for any lovers of historical fiction/romance (the series is set in WWII era Toronto). Not necessary to have read the other two first, but more rewarding if you do.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bethany House for the privilege of reading this book for review. My opinions are my own.
August 21, 2022
The third book in the Redemption’s Light series by Susan Anne Mason is a sweet, touching tale of healing from loss, mustering courage, seeking forgiveness, with a slow burn romance and a beautiful message to lay your trust with God first. This book can be read as a standalone novel.
This story just flowed and kept a steady reading pace from the start. While this is historical fiction I feel the story really centers on the characters stories and their growth rather than historical events taking the lead in the story.
Isabelle Winthrop and her sister Marissa become orphans when their parents die just months apart tragically. Facing this terrible loss they are now without their family home or money. With their high society status gone they quickly learn who has turned their backs on them and who will show true friendship. Isabelle now faces the challenges of supporting her sister and herself.
She finds an ally in Dr. Mark Henshaw who understands better than she knows the difficult situation she faces. He too struggles with raising a younger sibling while trying to balance his own career and life.
I appreciated the realness of these characters strengths and their flaws. They were not perfect parental figures nor were they perfect in their budding relationship. But each one reflected on their actions, realized their mistakes and sought the others forgiveness. The author skillfully weaves the theme of practicing patience, forgiveness, grace and not judging others into this wholesome story.
I think you would enjoy this book and the other two books if you enjoy watching Call the Midwife and When Calls the Heart. I received an e-arc of this book from NetGalley and Bethany House Fiction to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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This story just flowed and kept a steady reading pace from the start. While this is historical fiction I feel the story really centers on the characters stories and their growth rather than historical events taking the lead in the story.
Isabelle Winthrop and her sister Marissa become orphans when their parents die just months apart tragically. Facing this terrible loss they are now without their family home or money. With their high society status gone they quickly learn who has turned their backs on them and who will show true friendship. Isabelle now faces the challenges of supporting her sister and herself.
She finds an ally in Dr. Mark Henshaw who understands better than she knows the difficult situation she faces. He too struggles with raising a younger sibling while trying to balance his own career and life.
I appreciated the realness of these characters strengths and their flaws. They were not perfect parental figures nor were they perfect in their budding relationship. But each one reflected on their actions, realized their mistakes and sought the others forgiveness. The author skillfully weaves the theme of practicing patience, forgiveness, grace and not judging others into this wholesome story.
I think you would enjoy this book and the other two books if you enjoy watching Call the Midwife and When Calls the Heart. I received an e-arc of this book from NetGalley and Bethany House Fiction to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
https://littlebittydelights.wordpress...
July 13, 2022
Life rarely turns out the way we expect, but sometimes things take such a drastic turn it is almost impossible to see the light. That’s what the main character experiences during this book; in the first 50 pages, everything and almost everyone is stripped away from Isabelle. She is forced into situations she never imagined, loss compounding loss, and the reader wonders how things could possibly turn around for the good.
Isabelle begins the book as a somewhat selfish, pampered socialite. The reverses in her situation, however, start to make a change in her attitude. But where I might have expected bitterness to take over, I loved how the character instead realizes how much she still has, how she cherishes her relationship with her sister, and how she is determined to “count her blessings rather than her losses.”
Mark has experienced hardship as well, but he is a compassionate, focused doctor. He isn’t perfect, however, as his relationship with his brother, and later Isabelle, demonstrates. Mark is a realistic character, but still a good man, and I appreciated his depth, even when he frustrated me.
Real life doesn’t often live up to the fairy tales we tell ourselves, and it is certainly never problem free. The pull of family expectations, of making our own decisions, and of choosing to see the good are all highlighted beautifully in this book. And over it all, God is shown as sovereign, loving, forgiving, and very present. I recommend this book for older teens and up.
I received a review copy of this book from the author and publisher but was not required to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
Isabelle begins the book as a somewhat selfish, pampered socialite. The reverses in her situation, however, start to make a change in her attitude. But where I might have expected bitterness to take over, I loved how the character instead realizes how much she still has, how she cherishes her relationship with her sister, and how she is determined to “count her blessings rather than her losses.”
Mark has experienced hardship as well, but he is a compassionate, focused doctor. He isn’t perfect, however, as his relationship with his brother, and later Isabelle, demonstrates. Mark is a realistic character, but still a good man, and I appreciated his depth, even when he frustrated me.
Real life doesn’t often live up to the fairy tales we tell ourselves, and it is certainly never problem free. The pull of family expectations, of making our own decisions, and of choosing to see the good are all highlighted beautifully in this book. And over it all, God is shown as sovereign, loving, forgiving, and very present. I recommend this book for older teens and up.
I received a review copy of this book from the author and publisher but was not required to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
November 18, 2022
If you are looking for a WWII romance that will transport you back in time and make you feel as if you are there with the characters, this is the book for you.
Isabelle Wardrop has lost everything: her wealth, her family and now her home. Now, she and her sister are forced to move to the lowest part of the city and live with former servants. When nothing else works to find work, she turns to her final option, working for the man she blames for the death of her mother, Dr. Mark Henshaw. Dr. Henshaw wants to make up for what happened to Isabelle’s mother and works to make amends before anything more happens to make it where Isabelle will never forgive him.
Historical romance novels always have a way of pulling at my emotions. Isabelle is just the kind of strong character to pull at readers and make them root for her success. After all she has suffered it is not hard to want her to pull through the other side and find happiness for herself and her sister. At first, I wanted to hate Dr. Henshaw, but he became the kind of character that I also wanted to root for to find happiness as well as Isabelle. Overall, this was a quick read that took me back to the past and kept me there with these characters on their journey. I would recommend this to fans of historical romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
Isabelle Wardrop has lost everything: her wealth, her family and now her home. Now, she and her sister are forced to move to the lowest part of the city and live with former servants. When nothing else works to find work, she turns to her final option, working for the man she blames for the death of her mother, Dr. Mark Henshaw. Dr. Henshaw wants to make up for what happened to Isabelle’s mother and works to make amends before anything more happens to make it where Isabelle will never forgive him.
Historical romance novels always have a way of pulling at my emotions. Isabelle is just the kind of strong character to pull at readers and make them root for her success. After all she has suffered it is not hard to want her to pull through the other side and find happiness for herself and her sister. At first, I wanted to hate Dr. Henshaw, but he became the kind of character that I also wanted to root for to find happiness as well as Isabelle. Overall, this was a quick read that took me back to the past and kept me there with these characters on their journey. I would recommend this to fans of historical romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
November 24, 2022
A Feeling of Home
by Susan Anne Mason
Pub Date 05 Jul 2022
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Christian | Historical Fiction
I am reviewing a copy of A Feeling of Home through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:
Isabelle Waldrop's well to do life has completely unraveled. Within months, she's lost both her parents, her fortune, and her home. With nowhere else to turn, she and her younger sister move in with a trusted former servant in an impoverished area of the city. Desperate for work but having no qualifications, Isabelle is forced to accept help from Dr. Mark Henshaw, the very man she blames for her mother's death.
Mark Henshaw has admired Isabelle for several months, but after the tragic death of her mother, he vows to make amends for the past and help her find her way. But when Mark learns his younger brother has formed an undesirable friendship with Isabelle's sister one that brings a whole new set of problems into their lives--he doesn't know if Isabelle will ever forgive him.
After startling developments begin to take place, both within Isabelle's heart and their siblings' relationship, her future looks very different than anything she could have imagined.
I give A Feeling of Home five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
by Susan Anne Mason
Pub Date 05 Jul 2022
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Christian | Historical Fiction
I am reviewing a copy of A Feeling of Home through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:
Isabelle Waldrop's well to do life has completely unraveled. Within months, she's lost both her parents, her fortune, and her home. With nowhere else to turn, she and her younger sister move in with a trusted former servant in an impoverished area of the city. Desperate for work but having no qualifications, Isabelle is forced to accept help from Dr. Mark Henshaw, the very man she blames for her mother's death.
Mark Henshaw has admired Isabelle for several months, but after the tragic death of her mother, he vows to make amends for the past and help her find her way. But when Mark learns his younger brother has formed an undesirable friendship with Isabelle's sister one that brings a whole new set of problems into their lives--he doesn't know if Isabelle will ever forgive him.
After startling developments begin to take place, both within Isabelle's heart and their siblings' relationship, her future looks very different than anything she could have imagined.
I give A Feeling of Home five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
June 29, 2022
3.5 STARS
There’s something harmonious about Susan Mason’s writing. The long and short of it is that Mason writes historical fiction that keeps my interest by creating riveting characters and intriguing plot lines.
That said, there are several phrases/ideas that caused me to lower my rating on this one. There are references to toxicity in relationships that are definitely modern. The atomic bomb hadn’t been used yet so I don’t think they would know what a “toxic ball” even was. Also, one particular gentleman who claims to be a Christian referred to something as being “a sign from the universe”. That is new age thought, not the thought of any followers of Christ that I have known these last 40 years. I may be a tad nit-picky but to me, these things matter in CF.
None of this stops me from wanting to read any stories Mason publishes in the future though. She writes compelling storylines full of emotion and grace!
I highly recommend this entire series to readers looking for pleasant summer reading. I received a print copy from the author and publisher. No review was required.
There’s something harmonious about Susan Mason’s writing. The long and short of it is that Mason writes historical fiction that keeps my interest by creating riveting characters and intriguing plot lines.
That said, there are several phrases/ideas that caused me to lower my rating on this one. There are references to toxicity in relationships that are definitely modern. The atomic bomb hadn’t been used yet so I don’t think they would know what a “toxic ball” even was. Also, one particular gentleman who claims to be a Christian referred to something as being “a sign from the universe”. That is new age thought, not the thought of any followers of Christ that I have known these last 40 years. I may be a tad nit-picky but to me, these things matter in CF.
None of this stops me from wanting to read any stories Mason publishes in the future though. She writes compelling storylines full of emotion and grace!
I highly recommend this entire series to readers looking for pleasant summer reading. I received a print copy from the author and publisher. No review was required.
August 8, 2022
How does one adjust from being a selfish, pampered socialite, born into a rich family to a destitute homeless person overnight? This is what our heroine, Isabelle faces. Now she and her younger sister are depending on others for a job and a place to live. She however, starts to make a change in her attitude, realizing how haughty she was in her dealings with others and now she is being dealt the same by her used to be friends. She once disdained and scorned Dr. Mark Henshaw for remaining with his patient at the Bennington Place Maternity Home when her mother’s life hung in the balance. She then blamed him for her mother’s death. Now she finds him to be a friend and someone that she learned to trust and rely on when others are shunning her. Cautiously offering his help, Mark and Isabelle begin to forge a totally different kind of relationship, but could it become more? I enjoyed reading how Isabelle learns to accept being one of the lower class and learning to work with her own hands and loving people for who they are and not what they possess……I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
September 5, 2022
A very enjoyable third book in this series about life in Toronto. This particular book is set in the 1940s. At first, we don't find any of the normal characters except for Dr. Mark Henshaw. We meet Isabelle and Marissa during a difficult time when their mother dies and Isabelle blames Mark. Shortly thereafter, they lose their father and find themselves not only without parents but without a home or finances. The story is two-fold. First there is the developing relationship between Mark and Isabelle but there is another story involving Isabelle's sister, Marissa, and Mark's brother, Josh. It is through Marissa that we once again find Ruth and Olivia at the Bennington Maternity home. Isabelle is primarily trying to make a life for Marissa and putting her needs on the backburner. Mark is also concentrating on his sibling, Josh, as well as trying to work at the hospital, the maternity home and his work with the residents of poor neighborhoods. We find people with enormous hearts and desire to do good and to help. We also see some selfishness and the trouble that brings. An engaging story with a mild Christian message and no sex or profanity.
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