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Ladies of Summerhill #1
Love on a Dime
In age of elegance and excess, Lilly Westbrook longs for a love both true and eternal.
Newport, Rhode Island, 1899, is a place of shimmering waves, sleek yachts, and ladies of leisure. Of opulent mansions that serve as summer cottages for the rich and famous. Home of railroad magnates and banking tycoons--dashing young men and the women who aspire to marry them.
But it's not the place for lady novelists. Especially not those who pen disreputable dime novels. This poses a problem for Lilly Westbrook, because that's exactly what she does.
No one in Lilly's social set knows she pens fiction under the nom de plume Fannie Cole. Not her family or the wealthy young man about to propose to her. And especially not Jackson Grail, the long-lost beau who just bought her publishing company...and who stirs her heart more than she cares to admit.
But Lilly must put aside her feelings and follow the path that will maintain her family's social stature and provide the financial security that everyone is depending on.
Now Lilly faces a double dilemma. Can she continue to protect her secret identity? And will she have the courage to choose the man who will risk it all just to win her heart?
Newport, Rhode Island, 1899, is a place of shimmering waves, sleek yachts, and ladies of leisure. Of opulent mansions that serve as summer cottages for the rich and famous. Home of railroad magnates and banking tycoons--dashing young men and the women who aspire to marry them.
But it's not the place for lady novelists. Especially not those who pen disreputable dime novels. This poses a problem for Lilly Westbrook, because that's exactly what she does.
No one in Lilly's social set knows she pens fiction under the nom de plume Fannie Cole. Not her family or the wealthy young man about to propose to her. And especially not Jackson Grail, the long-lost beau who just bought her publishing company...and who stirs her heart more than she cares to admit.
But Lilly must put aside her feelings and follow the path that will maintain her family's social stature and provide the financial security that everyone is depending on.
Now Lilly faces a double dilemma. Can she continue to protect her secret identity? And will she have the courage to choose the man who will risk it all just to win her heart?
310 pages, Paperback
First published May 8, 2010
60 people are currently reading
2089 people want to read
About the author
Cara Lynn James
9 books112 followersAward-winning writer Cara Slaughter, who writes under the name Cara Lynn James, is a current Golden Heart® finalist in the Inspirational category. Finaling and placing in contests is not new to her, however. She has finaled in twelve contests and won five with three different stories and is a member of the active group of contest-oriented bloggers known as The Seekers.
Cara writes both contemporary and historical romance, having completed three manuscripts in six years. The Gilded Age of the 1890s is one of Cara’s favorite periods and is the time in which her stories are set.
A New Englander, Cara now lives in northwest Florida near the Gulf Coast with her twice-retired husband, formerly a Navy pilot and then science teacher, her grown daughter, two-year-old grandson who calls himself Spiderman and a yappy Papillion named Sparky. Their son lives five minutes away and attends college full-time along with working full-time.
When she’s not busy creating her stories, Cara likes to play with her grandson, eat out, especially at Mexican, Japanese, Italian and seafood restaurants, go camping in her A-liner pop-up camper (it looks like an aluminum tent) and read romances, women’s fiction and mysteries at the beach.
Cara writes both contemporary and historical romance, having completed three manuscripts in six years. The Gilded Age of the 1890s is one of Cara’s favorite periods and is the time in which her stories are set.
A New Englander, Cara now lives in northwest Florida near the Gulf Coast with her twice-retired husband, formerly a Navy pilot and then science teacher, her grown daughter, two-year-old grandson who calls himself Spiderman and a yappy Papillion named Sparky. Their son lives five minutes away and attends college full-time along with working full-time.
When she’s not busy creating her stories, Cara likes to play with her grandson, eat out, especially at Mexican, Japanese, Italian and seafood restaurants, go camping in her A-liner pop-up camper (it looks like an aluminum tent) and read romances, women’s fiction and mysteries at the beach.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
February 24, 2020
3.5*.
This book was a nice diversion from all the dark, crime thrillers I have been reading lately and will continue to be reading. The cover picture is lovely as well. I think it's very rare that the person who is on the cover picture of a book matches the description of the lead character he/she is supposed to represent...this one did.
This book was a nice diversion from all the dark, crime thrillers I have been reading lately and will continue to be reading. The cover picture is lovely as well. I think it's very rare that the person who is on the cover picture of a book matches the description of the lead character he/she is supposed to represent...this one did.
July 18, 2015
SUMMARY: In age of elegance and excess, Lilly Westbrook longs for a love both true and eternal.
Newport, Rhode Island, 1899, is a place of shimmering waves, sleek yachts, and ladies of leisure. Of opulent mansions that serve as summer cottages for the rich and famous. Home of railroad magnates and banking tycoons--dashing young men and the women who aspire to marry them.
But it's not the place for lady novelists. Especially not those who pen disreputable dime novels. This poses a problem for Lilly Westbrook, because that's exactly what she does.
No one in Lilly's social set knows she pens fiction under the "nom de plume "Fannie Cole. Not her family or the wealthy young man about to propose to her. And especially not Jackson Grail, the long-lost beau who just bought her publishing company...and who stirs her heart more than she cares to admit.
But Lilly must put aside her feelings and follow the path that will maintain her family's social stature and provide the financial security that everyone is depending on.
Now Lilly faces a double dilemma. Can she continue to protect her secret identity? And will she have the courage to choose the man who will risk it all just to win her heart?
REVIEW: In a gilded age opulence of ostentation by the wealthy, Lilly Westbrook walks a different path. She is caught between her own desires to help the poor and her family's plans for her life. This book is a wonderful period piece and 2 of the main characters, Lilly and Jackson, are attempting to challenge themselves in all areas of their life to see if they are living and serving the way God would want them to do. It was also great to see the changes in Lilly's brother George. Great balance between the characters you love to hate and those you are cheering for. The subplots add to the interest of the storyline and keep it moving forward. Overall, an excellent beginning to this series.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "We should forgiver others who transgress and allow them back in our circle. We don't have to approve of their actions to accept them as weak sinners in need of God's grace. Every one of us falls short."
"Of course, riches came in many forms, not merely hard currency. To serve yourself and not the Lord was the crux of the matter."
Newport, Rhode Island, 1899, is a place of shimmering waves, sleek yachts, and ladies of leisure. Of opulent mansions that serve as summer cottages for the rich and famous. Home of railroad magnates and banking tycoons--dashing young men and the women who aspire to marry them.
But it's not the place for lady novelists. Especially not those who pen disreputable dime novels. This poses a problem for Lilly Westbrook, because that's exactly what she does.
No one in Lilly's social set knows she pens fiction under the "nom de plume "Fannie Cole. Not her family or the wealthy young man about to propose to her. And especially not Jackson Grail, the long-lost beau who just bought her publishing company...and who stirs her heart more than she cares to admit.
But Lilly must put aside her feelings and follow the path that will maintain her family's social stature and provide the financial security that everyone is depending on.
Now Lilly faces a double dilemma. Can she continue to protect her secret identity? And will she have the courage to choose the man who will risk it all just to win her heart?
REVIEW: In a gilded age opulence of ostentation by the wealthy, Lilly Westbrook walks a different path. She is caught between her own desires to help the poor and her family's plans for her life. This book is a wonderful period piece and 2 of the main characters, Lilly and Jackson, are attempting to challenge themselves in all areas of their life to see if they are living and serving the way God would want them to do. It was also great to see the changes in Lilly's brother George. Great balance between the characters you love to hate and those you are cheering for. The subplots add to the interest of the storyline and keep it moving forward. Overall, an excellent beginning to this series.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "We should forgiver others who transgress and allow them back in our circle. We don't have to approve of their actions to accept them as weak sinners in need of God's grace. Every one of us falls short."
"Of course, riches came in many forms, not merely hard currency. To serve yourself and not the Lord was the crux of the matter."
December 21, 2025
I put this off a long time because I felt the cover looked so cheesy. I didn’t find the main story to be cheesy at all, though I didn’t care for the side thread concerning Irene. There was a lot packed into this story, including a gentle mystery thread I wasn’t expecting. I particularly enjoyed Jack but I also really found myself enjoying the scenes with her mother, showing her character growth arc. It was refreshing to not have the story turn out to be another “bad guy parents” story.
January 3, 2012
Though the plot of Love on a Dime sounded promising, I didn't feel like it lived up to my expectations. It is one of those books I finished out of pure stuborness, because I really didn't care a fiddle for any of the characters and the ending was predictable.
Two, okay three, things bugged me about this book. The first is how Harlan, Lilly's beau, is perfectly promising until Jack shows up. And suddenly all he has is imperfections, most convenient ones too. He is a tempid-at-best Christian. A calculating stick in the mud. A clueless society boy. Somehow, all these things didn't show up until Jack returns to the scene.
Poor Harlan.
And suddenly everyone who was fawning over their impending engagment is totally chill and like 'you really wouldn't suit after all.'
Convenient.
The second thing that bugged me was my usual complaint about romance novels - its all about the sensual rush. They are having an argument....and suddenly Jack longs to "kiss her passionately until their disagreement went away." Or Lilly imagines the "fire of his kisses." When they do talk about the other's character, it is mostly about how freakin' perfect the other person is. That is, Jack thinks about that. Lilly just moons over how she gets butterflies when he is around.
The third problem I had with this book was something I've noticed more and more in this genre. The character change. Lilly gives the most. I am not a radical feminist, but it does annoy me when the female gives up exponentially more. For example, Jack's character change? He visits a house for the poor and suddenly realizes that his driving ambition since he was a kid was selfish in comparison. Hmmm. Convenient, but not to painful.
Lilly, on the other hand, must give up her privacy, her position in society, even risk her family's displeasure and enstrangment....all because Jack wanted a public-authoress. He doesn't have to give in at all. I was thinking perhaps he'd hire someone, maybe blackmail Irene, into pretending to be the mysterious authoress, thus Lilly could keep writing in quiet. But no, she gives the most, must trust the most.
Of course, she would respond that she is doing the "Holy Spirit's bidding." I am slightly skeptical. Not that the Holy Spirit couldn't instruct a society-lady to write dime novels, it just seems kind of silly.
The whole plot is kind of silly.
It's a "nice" novel, squeaky clean (except for all the longing for "firey kisses") and not something I plan on ever re-reading. In fact, I really have no inclination to try anything else by this authoress. I rather think Ms. James must picture herself as Lilly, writing "inspiring" novels with a good moral to her public.
Good for her. Maybe she bless many people. I just don't appreciate the melodrama.
Another one of those books that I am not-not reccomending, but personally did not enjoy.
Two, okay three, things bugged me about this book. The first is how Harlan, Lilly's beau, is perfectly promising until Jack shows up. And suddenly all he has is imperfections, most convenient ones too. He is a tempid-at-best Christian. A calculating stick in the mud. A clueless society boy. Somehow, all these things didn't show up until Jack returns to the scene.
Poor Harlan.
And suddenly everyone who was fawning over their impending engagment is totally chill and like 'you really wouldn't suit after all.'
Convenient.
The second thing that bugged me was my usual complaint about romance novels - its all about the sensual rush. They are having an argument....and suddenly Jack longs to "kiss her passionately until their disagreement went away." Or Lilly imagines the "fire of his kisses." When they do talk about the other's character, it is mostly about how freakin' perfect the other person is. That is, Jack thinks about that. Lilly just moons over how she gets butterflies when he is around.
The third problem I had with this book was something I've noticed more and more in this genre. The character change. Lilly gives the most. I am not a radical feminist, but it does annoy me when the female gives up exponentially more. For example, Jack's character change? He visits a house for the poor and suddenly realizes that his driving ambition since he was a kid was selfish in comparison. Hmmm. Convenient, but not to painful.
Lilly, on the other hand, must give up her privacy, her position in society, even risk her family's displeasure and enstrangment....all because Jack wanted a public-authoress. He doesn't have to give in at all. I was thinking perhaps he'd hire someone, maybe blackmail Irene, into pretending to be the mysterious authoress, thus Lilly could keep writing in quiet. But no, she gives the most, must trust the most.
Of course, she would respond that she is doing the "Holy Spirit's bidding." I am slightly skeptical. Not that the Holy Spirit couldn't instruct a society-lady to write dime novels, it just seems kind of silly.
The whole plot is kind of silly.
It's a "nice" novel, squeaky clean (except for all the longing for "firey kisses") and not something I plan on ever re-reading. In fact, I really have no inclination to try anything else by this authoress. I rather think Ms. James must picture herself as Lilly, writing "inspiring" novels with a good moral to her public.
Good for her. Maybe she bless many people. I just don't appreciate the melodrama.
Another one of those books that I am not-not reccomending, but personally did not enjoy.
July 22, 2010
At first glance, Love on a Dime looks intriguing and inviting, but unfortunately the story is a big let down from the cover. This book does have the makings of a good story—mystery, intrigue, romance, but I think the error was in the execution of the plot. Unfortunately, it left something to be desired. Even with its downfalls, this book was not a horrible read. It had some decent character development with Lilly, the heroine and Jackson, the long lost love. The main plot revolves around these two characters and thankfully, this is CLASSIC Christian fiction, so there are no inappropriate situations or conversations that take place in this novel. This novel is one you can read and not be ashamed of at any point. At some points in the novel the conversation and interaction between the characters seems a bit stifled and rote. This may have been the author trying to capture the tone of conversation during the period of the novel, but it didn’t come across in a compelling way.
I gave this novel two stars because while I do think it is worth reading, it is not going to make it onto any of my ‘must-read’ lists for this summer. As I said, the cover is compelling and will draw you in. There is an upcoming sequel due out in January of 2011 and hopefully that will add some detail to the settings.
This book was provided for review purposes by Thomas Nelson Publisher’s blogging program, Booksneeze.
I gave this novel two stars because while I do think it is worth reading, it is not going to make it onto any of my ‘must-read’ lists for this summer. As I said, the cover is compelling and will draw you in. There is an upcoming sequel due out in January of 2011 and hopefully that will add some detail to the settings.
This book was provided for review purposes by Thomas Nelson Publisher’s blogging program, Booksneeze.
February 3, 2019
A lovely, albeit somewhat unrealistic, story. The idea that Lilly and Jack finally coming together, in the end, was elongated suspense that was a tiny bit tedious. Don't get me wrong, while the story was very cute, I felt that it took a really long time to wrap up.
I did enjoy the story. It was a nice and sweet read.
Give it a go!!
I did enjoy the story. It was a nice and sweet read.
Give it a go!!
July 7, 2015
Title: Love on a Dime.
Author: Cara Lynn James.
Genre: Christian, Romance, Historical Setting, Rhode Island.
Plot: Lilly Westbrook is a lady of society, keeping up with the latest fashions and attending numerous parties hosted by the elite of society in bustling Newport, Rhode Island in 1899. But secretly, Lilly earns her own income by shutting herself away in her bedroom and furiously typing out dime novels under the name of Fannie Cole. Little did she know when she first set pen to paper that her stories would soar to the top of the popularity charts, though of course, no respectable member of society would darn get caught reading such “trash,” let alone writing it.
But when Lilly’s world is flipped upside down by the sudden and unexpected arrival of her former sweetheart, Jackson Grail, who vanished the same night he secretly proposed to her six years ago, Lilly fears her secret will come to light. And what with a blackmailer sniffing around, her flirtatious sister-in-law threatening social damage and her current beau about to propose, Lilly begins to wonder if she’s in over her head.
Likes/Dislikes: So I admittedly wanted to read this book mainly because it was set in Rhode Island, and partly because the main character is a writer. And while the first quarter of the book was very interesting and set the plot up pretty well, the rest of the book really lagged and left me bored, disappointed and mildly frustrated. There was a sad lack of historical detail about Rhode Island – the characters never discussed current historical events or even left their pretty little mansions for long. It was all gossip and repeated bland information. Oh my gosh, the repetitiveness of everything! Lilly whined so much about her stupid reputation and how her family would react to finding out she was a writer that I wanted to slap her. Jack was a really interesting character except for the fact that he whined a little too much about Lilly being, well Lilly, and that she wouldn’t let him help her – which was stupid. She should’ve accepted his help a long time ago and trusted that he would take care of her. The ending seemed very slap-dash, though I was skimming by then, and I seriously doubt everyone would be all happy-happy and have everything mostly resolved the way it was portrayed in the story. This was just a big disappointment for me. It was fun to read some of the more flowery passages to my husband and watch him roll his eyes though.
Rating: PG-14 and up, it’s a very clean though bland story.
Date Review Written: July 6, 2015.
Author: Cara Lynn James.
Genre: Christian, Romance, Historical Setting, Rhode Island.
Plot: Lilly Westbrook is a lady of society, keeping up with the latest fashions and attending numerous parties hosted by the elite of society in bustling Newport, Rhode Island in 1899. But secretly, Lilly earns her own income by shutting herself away in her bedroom and furiously typing out dime novels under the name of Fannie Cole. Little did she know when she first set pen to paper that her stories would soar to the top of the popularity charts, though of course, no respectable member of society would darn get caught reading such “trash,” let alone writing it.
But when Lilly’s world is flipped upside down by the sudden and unexpected arrival of her former sweetheart, Jackson Grail, who vanished the same night he secretly proposed to her six years ago, Lilly fears her secret will come to light. And what with a blackmailer sniffing around, her flirtatious sister-in-law threatening social damage and her current beau about to propose, Lilly begins to wonder if she’s in over her head.
Likes/Dislikes: So I admittedly wanted to read this book mainly because it was set in Rhode Island, and partly because the main character is a writer. And while the first quarter of the book was very interesting and set the plot up pretty well, the rest of the book really lagged and left me bored, disappointed and mildly frustrated. There was a sad lack of historical detail about Rhode Island – the characters never discussed current historical events or even left their pretty little mansions for long. It was all gossip and repeated bland information. Oh my gosh, the repetitiveness of everything! Lilly whined so much about her stupid reputation and how her family would react to finding out she was a writer that I wanted to slap her. Jack was a really interesting character except for the fact that he whined a little too much about Lilly being, well Lilly, and that she wouldn’t let him help her – which was stupid. She should’ve accepted his help a long time ago and trusted that he would take care of her. The ending seemed very slap-dash, though I was skimming by then, and I seriously doubt everyone would be all happy-happy and have everything mostly resolved the way it was portrayed in the story. This was just a big disappointment for me. It was fun to read some of the more flowery passages to my husband and watch him roll his eyes though.
Rating: PG-14 and up, it’s a very clean though bland story.
Date Review Written: July 6, 2015.
June 4, 2010
With social rules to follow and the threat of being ostracized, Lily Westbrook walks a fine line between truth and lies. By keeping her secret from her family, she deceives them. But in her heart she believes she is doing the Lord’s will by helping those in need.
Lily’s conflict is realistic and one that crosses the ages. Remember how Michal chastised David for dancing before the Ark? In her eyes it wasn’t proper and she felt embarassed. Her eyes weren’t necessarily upon the Lord. Love on a Dime isn’t just a story about Lily and Jackson’s growth in the Lord. It’s a story about how one women defies societal conventions, even if it is in secret, and reaches out to touch those less fortunate than herself. I’m not saying whether Lily’s actions are right or they are wrong, and I won’t give away any spoilers here, but she never once wavered in her belief that what society saw as wrong was what God willed her to do.
To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect from Cara Lynn James, but I have to say Love on a Dime is quite the surprising debut novel. Although it isn’t fabulously extraordinary, it will find its way on my keeper shelf once I’ve passed it around to my family and friends.
In today’s market where many books are written with fast paced plots and pay little attention to detail, Love on a Dime is a delightful stroll on the beach. Set in Rhode Island during the Gilded Age, Cara Lynn James brings to life the social setting of the elite and those trying to gain entrance. I appreciate all the little accouterments that are so often left off the pages. I didn’t feel robbed of the little details. And although there were plenty of twists and turns, I definitely didn’t feel overstuffed with it. Whether a writer or not, one can’ help but relate to the lovely Lilly Westbrook. And what an unlikely, and very captivating, hero Jackson Grail makes.
Now for the down side. There were a few times when I felt the conflict between Lily and Jackson could have easily been resolved. That being said, all in all the story is charming and very well written. I see a promise of fabulously extraordinary novels in the future and I will wait expectantly for James’ next novel.
Sittings: 3
Hours: 4
Recommend: Yes
Lily’s conflict is realistic and one that crosses the ages. Remember how Michal chastised David for dancing before the Ark? In her eyes it wasn’t proper and she felt embarassed. Her eyes weren’t necessarily upon the Lord. Love on a Dime isn’t just a story about Lily and Jackson’s growth in the Lord. It’s a story about how one women defies societal conventions, even if it is in secret, and reaches out to touch those less fortunate than herself. I’m not saying whether Lily’s actions are right or they are wrong, and I won’t give away any spoilers here, but she never once wavered in her belief that what society saw as wrong was what God willed her to do.
To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect from Cara Lynn James, but I have to say Love on a Dime is quite the surprising debut novel. Although it isn’t fabulously extraordinary, it will find its way on my keeper shelf once I’ve passed it around to my family and friends.
In today’s market where many books are written with fast paced plots and pay little attention to detail, Love on a Dime is a delightful stroll on the beach. Set in Rhode Island during the Gilded Age, Cara Lynn James brings to life the social setting of the elite and those trying to gain entrance. I appreciate all the little accouterments that are so often left off the pages. I didn’t feel robbed of the little details. And although there were plenty of twists and turns, I definitely didn’t feel overstuffed with it. Whether a writer or not, one can’ help but relate to the lovely Lilly Westbrook. And what an unlikely, and very captivating, hero Jackson Grail makes.
Now for the down side. There were a few times when I felt the conflict between Lily and Jackson could have easily been resolved. That being said, all in all the story is charming and very well written. I see a promise of fabulously extraordinary novels in the future and I will wait expectantly for James’ next novel.
Sittings: 3
Hours: 4
Recommend: Yes
June 7, 2010
I really like the title of this novel, it sums up the book well.
The story is of a secret dime novelist, a young woman who is writing dime novels behind her families’ back. With the advent of an old lover and a conniving man on her trail to expose her identity, will her secret be uncovered?
Aside from the three star rating, I did find enjoyment and the story was a premise that I enjoy in today’s fiction.
But I also really couldn’t get into the book. The characters didn’t draw me personally as much as I would have liked. They were different from each other and I understood their motivation and their lessons learned, but they didn’t become real to me.
The dialogue seemed forced. I don’t know how the characters would have talked in the Gilded age and maybe it is very authentic, but to me it just didn’t flow naturally.
Aside from that the ending was good. It ended with a bang and has me wondering for what will happen to the characters in book two. The secondary characters played along with the main characters very nicely and weren’t just cardboard cutouts next to the main.
A good novel and I want to thank the publishers for my copy to review. This review is my honest opinion.
The story is of a secret dime novelist, a young woman who is writing dime novels behind her families’ back. With the advent of an old lover and a conniving man on her trail to expose her identity, will her secret be uncovered?
Aside from the three star rating, I did find enjoyment and the story was a premise that I enjoy in today’s fiction.
But I also really couldn’t get into the book. The characters didn’t draw me personally as much as I would have liked. They were different from each other and I understood their motivation and their lessons learned, but they didn’t become real to me.
The dialogue seemed forced. I don’t know how the characters would have talked in the Gilded age and maybe it is very authentic, but to me it just didn’t flow naturally.
Aside from that the ending was good. It ended with a bang and has me wondering for what will happen to the characters in book two. The secondary characters played along with the main characters very nicely and weren’t just cardboard cutouts next to the main.
A good novel and I want to thank the publishers for my copy to review. This review is my honest opinion.
July 15, 2013
Love on a Dime
By Cara Lynn James
I bought this book so long ago but kept avoiding reading it..don't know why but I certainly regret doing so. Now that I have had so many contemporary books to read I missed historical old fashioned romance so I got around to Miss James novel. It is so lovely. True love never dies it keeps going deep inside our hearts like little ambers hoping to be rekindled back into a full fire. Jack's and Lilly's love has weathered so much hardships and pressure--personal shyness and pride, society demands, career, family responsibilities, unfavorable roots and of-course one really noisy edditor-colonel. But their previous romance that had inspired best selling dime novels and Jacks persistence won Lilly's love and trust back. You women out there, don't merry for money and comfort wait on true love, nothing else will bring you happiness you so deserve.
Adorable, heart-wrenching love tale that even though is a work of fiction, I'd like to think was once lived by some intelligent, God-fearing debutante centuries ago.
Enjoy your read. Im going to find the rest of the series.
By Cara Lynn James
I bought this book so long ago but kept avoiding reading it..don't know why but I certainly regret doing so. Now that I have had so many contemporary books to read I missed historical old fashioned romance so I got around to Miss James novel. It is so lovely. True love never dies it keeps going deep inside our hearts like little ambers hoping to be rekindled back into a full fire. Jack's and Lilly's love has weathered so much hardships and pressure--personal shyness and pride, society demands, career, family responsibilities, unfavorable roots and of-course one really noisy edditor-colonel. But their previous romance that had inspired best selling dime novels and Jacks persistence won Lilly's love and trust back. You women out there, don't merry for money and comfort wait on true love, nothing else will bring you happiness you so deserve.
Adorable, heart-wrenching love tale that even though is a work of fiction, I'd like to think was once lived by some intelligent, God-fearing debutante centuries ago.
Enjoy your read. Im going to find the rest of the series.
August 26, 2014
I ADORE the cover on this one but the content wasn't to my taste. I found it boring and overly centered on the romance. The main premise of the book, the fact that she is a rich society lady who is secretly an author in the Gilded Age, barely seems to have a part in the book... It's entirely focused on overdone descriptions of parties and gowns and a cheesy, underdeveloped romance between Lilly Westbrook and Jackson Grail. It wasn't the worst book I've ever read, but it certainly wasn't very good, in my opinion. It needed more depth and diverse content instead of plodding along with only a halfhearted attempt at action in the end. I also wasn't a fan of Lilly herself. She seemed just as boring and flat as the novel itself. Irene and Jackson were the most well done and realistic characters in the book, but even Jack was a little annoying at times. The dialogue was often awkward and stiff and the descriptions were FAR overdone. There should be a limit to the amount of adjectives used in a sentence. I enjoyed Love on a Dime at times but by the end I was really ready to be done with it. I like light, fun, easy reads but this one was simply too frivolous and empty headed for me.
June 2, 2015
I thought this book was really cute but while reading it I felt like the story was going around and around in circles over and over again with me saying to myself, "Didn't they already had this conversation before?" The plot and the characters were great and I like how things tied together but it was predictable, though it never bored me at all (to where I kept reading and reading without wanting to put it down - so I barely did).
Lilly felt called by God to write Dime novels in order to portray morals that lead people to trusting in God. However, because she is of high society, she is scared of what being an author of dime romance novels will do to her family's reputation.
Six years earlier she gave her heart to Jackson who was also scared of his own reputation, since he came from a poor family. He loved her but left her to find his fortune so he might be worthy of Lilly. Now he's back but her life has moved on. Can she keep her secret from everyone? Can she still move on with her life with him around?
Lilly felt called by God to write Dime novels in order to portray morals that lead people to trusting in God. However, because she is of high society, she is scared of what being an author of dime romance novels will do to her family's reputation.
Six years earlier she gave her heart to Jackson who was also scared of his own reputation, since he came from a poor family. He loved her but left her to find his fortune so he might be worthy of Lilly. Now he's back but her life has moved on. Can she keep her secret from everyone? Can she still move on with her life with him around?
June 5, 2014
This book was like a sweet, slightly cheesy Hallmark movie. I enjoyed it, though it did have its flaws. All the characters in this book, including Lillian and Jack, were very pigheaded - to the point that I felt it wasn't justifiable. I also think that Harlan was set up to be the villain in such a way that was a tad too obvious and a bit over the top. The book really didn't pick up until the second half. I enjoyed the last half greatly... except for the last chapter. The book ended way too suddenly, and even though the ending was exactly what you wanted to happen, it was done way too quickly to be considered a satisfying ending. Overall, this was a slightly frustrating, mostly cute read.
January 19, 2016
This book is hard to review. I have been trying to read it all day yet when ever I open it I get bored. This book lacks forward motion. The same dilemma from chapter 1 is still a problem half way through with out any feelings that other subplots are moving.
I could be wrong its not an awful book but it is boring to me and I want to read other things. Maybe I'll come back to this author, for now I am going to read other things
I could be wrong its not an awful book but it is boring to me and I want to read other things. Maybe I'll come back to this author, for now I am going to read other things
January 7, 2011
Not bad, worth the price (free.)
October 5, 2025
3.5 stars**
I enjoyed this book for the most part, but I was also a bit disappointed. The cover screams to me something similar to Jen Turano's comedic relief in her stories, but that really wasn't the case in this story. I found that really disappointing, even though I realize that isn't what I was promised. The cover is one of my favorites. Unfortunately, the story just fell a bit flat for me.
However, I did enjoy the romance and I also really enjoyed Lilly as a character. I also liked the drama of George and Irene and their nosy mom. I did enjoy myself enough to keep reading. I think I just wished there was more humor. Overall, I would recommend and I'll be reading the next book in the series.
I enjoyed this book for the most part, but I was also a bit disappointed. The cover screams to me something similar to Jen Turano's comedic relief in her stories, but that really wasn't the case in this story. I found that really disappointing, even though I realize that isn't what I was promised. The cover is one of my favorites. Unfortunately, the story just fell a bit flat for me.
However, I did enjoy the romance and I also really enjoyed Lilly as a character. I also liked the drama of George and Irene and their nosy mom. I did enjoy myself enough to keep reading. I think I just wished there was more humor. Overall, I would recommend and I'll be reading the next book in the series.
March 14, 2011
Love On A Dime by Cara Lynn James
Love On A Dime is the first book in Cara Lynn James' series, the Ladies of Summerhill.
I was fortunate enough to get his book free for my Kindle on Amazon a few months back and I finally got around to reading it!
Love On A Dime is historical Christian fiction set in 1899 in Newport, Rhode Island.
Lilly Westbrook has survived a broken heart and remains unmarried and living with her parents. She spends her time writing fiction, but the type society looks down upon, dime novels. No proper lady with Lilly's social standing would dare to pen such "filth" and "trash".
So, Lilly writes under a pseudonym, Fannie Cole, in order to hide the fact from her family that she is the infamous Fannie Cole.
Lilly has been dating a wealthy gentleman from the high echelons of society, Harlan, and it seems as if it is all but guaranteed that they will soon be engaged. However, Lilly's brother, George, brings his old friend, Jackson to stay at their home throwing Lilly's emotions into a turmoil because she was once secretly betrothed to Jackson, but he ran off leaving her alone when he felt that her parents would never approve of their match.
Lilly is not overjoyed to partake in all the social events that marrying someone like Harlan would require of her. She does not care to go out to parties every night, and much prefers spending her time writing, and volunteering at the Christian Settlement House which is in danger of going under due to a severe lack of funding.
Jackson has come back to see Lilly, unbeknownst to her, with the aim of winning her back. Now that he has made some wealth of his own, he no longer fears her parents rejecting him. But when he finds out she is all but engaged to Harlan, he is unsure that he should pursue her, as hard as it is for him to stand back and watch her relationship with Harlan.
As if Lilly's emotional turmoil isn't enough, a writer for a local gossip magazine is working to uncover Fannie Cole's true identity, threatening everything that Lilly has created, her ability to write, and the funding from her writing which she has been using to fund the Christian Settlement House. When she approaches Harlan for help with her charity work, he is hesitant to support them, not caring that Lilly is so passionate about their mission. Watching Jackson step up to help her find funding for the Christian Settlement House makes Lilly begin to wonder if Harlan is someone she could truly spend her life with.
As Lilly is about to consider giving herself to Jackson, she finds out that he is about to buy the publishing company that publishes her work as Fannie Cole and that he too wishes to make her identity known so he can promote her. Scared of the implications Lilly decides that Harlan would be a better choice, even if she doesn't feel the same love towards him she does for Jackson...
Will Lilly's secrets be exposed? Will she be able to save the Christian Settlement House? Will her feelings for Harlan grow or will she have to choose between happiness and some level of practicality, or will true love win out in the end, no matter the cost to her reputation...?
Read Love On A Dime to find out!
As you can tell from my description, a lot happens in this book. Lilly is fighting for and against true love, working to save her charity, and trying to hide her secret life as infamous author Fannie Cole. She fears so much what will happen if her family were to find out, it would destroy their reputation and social standing, but her urge to write is so strong she just cannot stop herself...
It was an alright book. It wasn't the best I have ever read, and at times I was hoping it would pick up more quickly. I didn't love it as much as some other books, and I found it a lot less memorable as I tried to go back and write my review today. I had a hard time recalling character names, and that just shows how my attachment to the characters was a lot more superficial.
I say 3.5 out of 4 stars. I liked it, but I didn't love it.
Love On A Dime is the first book in Cara Lynn James' series, the Ladies of Summerhill.
I was fortunate enough to get his book free for my Kindle on Amazon a few months back and I finally got around to reading it!
Love On A Dime is historical Christian fiction set in 1899 in Newport, Rhode Island.
Lilly Westbrook has survived a broken heart and remains unmarried and living with her parents. She spends her time writing fiction, but the type society looks down upon, dime novels. No proper lady with Lilly's social standing would dare to pen such "filth" and "trash".
So, Lilly writes under a pseudonym, Fannie Cole, in order to hide the fact from her family that she is the infamous Fannie Cole.
Lilly has been dating a wealthy gentleman from the high echelons of society, Harlan, and it seems as if it is all but guaranteed that they will soon be engaged. However, Lilly's brother, George, brings his old friend, Jackson to stay at their home throwing Lilly's emotions into a turmoil because she was once secretly betrothed to Jackson, but he ran off leaving her alone when he felt that her parents would never approve of their match.
Lilly is not overjoyed to partake in all the social events that marrying someone like Harlan would require of her. She does not care to go out to parties every night, and much prefers spending her time writing, and volunteering at the Christian Settlement House which is in danger of going under due to a severe lack of funding.
Jackson has come back to see Lilly, unbeknownst to her, with the aim of winning her back. Now that he has made some wealth of his own, he no longer fears her parents rejecting him. But when he finds out she is all but engaged to Harlan, he is unsure that he should pursue her, as hard as it is for him to stand back and watch her relationship with Harlan.
As if Lilly's emotional turmoil isn't enough, a writer for a local gossip magazine is working to uncover Fannie Cole's true identity, threatening everything that Lilly has created, her ability to write, and the funding from her writing which she has been using to fund the Christian Settlement House. When she approaches Harlan for help with her charity work, he is hesitant to support them, not caring that Lilly is so passionate about their mission. Watching Jackson step up to help her find funding for the Christian Settlement House makes Lilly begin to wonder if Harlan is someone she could truly spend her life with.
As Lilly is about to consider giving herself to Jackson, she finds out that he is about to buy the publishing company that publishes her work as Fannie Cole and that he too wishes to make her identity known so he can promote her. Scared of the implications Lilly decides that Harlan would be a better choice, even if she doesn't feel the same love towards him she does for Jackson...
Will Lilly's secrets be exposed? Will she be able to save the Christian Settlement House? Will her feelings for Harlan grow or will she have to choose between happiness and some level of practicality, or will true love win out in the end, no matter the cost to her reputation...?
Read Love On A Dime to find out!
As you can tell from my description, a lot happens in this book. Lilly is fighting for and against true love, working to save her charity, and trying to hide her secret life as infamous author Fannie Cole. She fears so much what will happen if her family were to find out, it would destroy their reputation and social standing, but her urge to write is so strong she just cannot stop herself...
It was an alright book. It wasn't the best I have ever read, and at times I was hoping it would pick up more quickly. I didn't love it as much as some other books, and I found it a lot less memorable as I tried to go back and write my review today. I had a hard time recalling character names, and that just shows how my attachment to the characters was a lot more superficial.
I say 3.5 out of 4 stars. I liked it, but I didn't love it.
July 31, 2010
Love on a Dime by Cara Lynn James
Thomas Nelson, 2010
310 pages
Inspirational; Historical; Romance
3.5/5 stars
Source: Received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson in exchange for an honest review
Summary: Lilly and Jack were in love or so she thought until he left her with no indication of returning. Now it's 1899 and six years later and she is secretly a successful author of dime novels at the publishing company the newly wealthy Jack hopes to acquire. She's also on the verge of being engaged and moving on with her life until he brings back old feelings. Can he win her love again?
I'm going to break my thoughts in to three sections based on the main genres I saw here:
Historical-I was somewhat disappointed in the historical aspects of this book. I was really interested to know more about the Gilded Age and the lifestyle of the very rich but I didn't feel that atmosphere here. There were references to the new telephone and the strict code of the Newport ladies was maintained (ie well-brought up young ladies do not earn their own money; instead they rely on their father or husband). But this area definitely lacked.
Romance-Jack left and then he comes back with the intention of winning Lilly but without telling her so, expecting her either to realize what he's thinking or to never have gotten over him and thus jump at the chance to reunite. This is not one of my favorite romantic tropes, because both characters (or at least the guy) end up acting really stupid and annoying. While I knew that Jack had good intentions and I believed that he did not want to hurt Lilly, he still did hurt her and frustrated me to no end. Additionally his communication skills were so poor and he often jumped to conclusions.
Religion-I would say this was the aspect that was most pleasing to me. Both main characters have a relationship with God, even if it might be a bit strained and they pray to Him quite frequently. Lilly is even able to tie her God-given talent of writing to her charitable works, which I quite liked.
Random-There was Lilly's work with a charity that was important in the first part but less so in the second; there was a thread around her brother George; there was her parents' relationship and especially her mother's relationship with her which left me with a lot of plot but not a lot of engagement with it. Consequently the end was a bit rushed.
Overall: I'm not a fan of the romantic trope used here and I thought the author tried to stuff too much in. I am still interested in the planned sequel, Love on Assignment, due out January 2011.
Cover: Pretty girl wearing historically accurate clothing I believe and holding one of her books in front of the Newport area. I'm a big fan of this cover!
Thomas Nelson, 2010
310 pages
Inspirational; Historical; Romance
3.5/5 stars
Source: Received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson in exchange for an honest review
Summary: Lilly and Jack were in love or so she thought until he left her with no indication of returning. Now it's 1899 and six years later and she is secretly a successful author of dime novels at the publishing company the newly wealthy Jack hopes to acquire. She's also on the verge of being engaged and moving on with her life until he brings back old feelings. Can he win her love again?
I'm going to break my thoughts in to three sections based on the main genres I saw here:
Historical-I was somewhat disappointed in the historical aspects of this book. I was really interested to know more about the Gilded Age and the lifestyle of the very rich but I didn't feel that atmosphere here. There were references to the new telephone and the strict code of the Newport ladies was maintained (ie well-brought up young ladies do not earn their own money; instead they rely on their father or husband). But this area definitely lacked.
Romance-Jack left and then he comes back with the intention of winning Lilly but without telling her so, expecting her either to realize what he's thinking or to never have gotten over him and thus jump at the chance to reunite. This is not one of my favorite romantic tropes, because both characters (or at least the guy) end up acting really stupid and annoying. While I knew that Jack had good intentions and I believed that he did not want to hurt Lilly, he still did hurt her and frustrated me to no end. Additionally his communication skills were so poor and he often jumped to conclusions.
Religion-I would say this was the aspect that was most pleasing to me. Both main characters have a relationship with God, even if it might be a bit strained and they pray to Him quite frequently. Lilly is even able to tie her God-given talent of writing to her charitable works, which I quite liked.
Random-There was Lilly's work with a charity that was important in the first part but less so in the second; there was a thread around her brother George; there was her parents' relationship and especially her mother's relationship with her which left me with a lot of plot but not a lot of engagement with it. Consequently the end was a bit rushed.
Overall: I'm not a fan of the romantic trope used here and I thought the author tried to stuff too much in. I am still interested in the planned sequel, Love on Assignment, due out January 2011.
Cover: Pretty girl wearing historically accurate clothing I believe and holding one of her books in front of the Newport area. I'm a big fan of this cover!
November 4, 2011
I got this book because I thought it was about rich people in beach houses in New England. I don't know why I have such a thing for that, but I do.
However, although the characters are rich people in beach houses in New England, that hardly comes up. Instead, this book falls in the imaginary genre of Jane Austen knock-offs. Also, apparently it's a Christian novel--I wouldn't have gotten it if I had known that.
Still, it was a fun read. Although it was pretty obvious and predictable, the author did a fabulous job of creating and sustaining suspense throughout the book. I meant to read a few pages and then go to sleep, but I ended up reading the whole thing in one sitting.
I liked the characters, too (except the evil ones, of course). I wanted them all to do the smart thing and be happy.
What I didn't like about this book is the way the entire conflict rested on people being afraid to talk. If anyone had just said the truth of what was going on, the book would have been over in 5 pages. That's a bit tiresome.
Also, the ending was soooooo picture perfect, wrapped up like a present with a bow on top. Come on, a little realism never hurt anyone. In particular, the hero saves the heroine from the big mean bad guy who has been blackmailing her... by threatening to call the police and tell them he's a blackmailer? And the big mean bad guy is so scared of this (also, basically, blackmail) that he not only goes back on exposing her, but also makes a huge donation to her favorite charity just to keep from getting tattled on? First of all, the evidence against him was flimsy at best, and secondly, everyone already know he was a big bad blackmailer, so it's not like his reputation would be ruined. He'd probably get, what, a fine? A slap on the wrist? And that's assuming he was convicted at all. Why would he be so scared of that? Not believable.
The other thing I found unsettling about the book was how much all the "good guy" characters are always pestering God about everything. I guess that's what Christians are supposed to do, but it seems really weird to me. You get yourself into these messes, and then you're constantly bugging God to swoop in and magically solve them for you, and protect you from everything? I've never quite understood that.
The religious stuff stopped just short of being obnoxious. If I had more time to waste and was in the mood for Jane Austen knockoff compelling fluff, I'd probably read another book in this series. But I wouldn't seek it out.
However, although the characters are rich people in beach houses in New England, that hardly comes up. Instead, this book falls in the imaginary genre of Jane Austen knock-offs. Also, apparently it's a Christian novel--I wouldn't have gotten it if I had known that.
Still, it was a fun read. Although it was pretty obvious and predictable, the author did a fabulous job of creating and sustaining suspense throughout the book. I meant to read a few pages and then go to sleep, but I ended up reading the whole thing in one sitting.
I liked the characters, too (except the evil ones, of course). I wanted them all to do the smart thing and be happy.
What I didn't like about this book is the way the entire conflict rested on people being afraid to talk. If anyone had just said the truth of what was going on, the book would have been over in 5 pages. That's a bit tiresome.
Also, the ending was soooooo picture perfect, wrapped up like a present with a bow on top. Come on, a little realism never hurt anyone. In particular, the hero saves the heroine from the big mean bad guy who has been blackmailing her... by threatening to call the police and tell them he's a blackmailer? And the big mean bad guy is so scared of this (also, basically, blackmail) that he not only goes back on exposing her, but also makes a huge donation to her favorite charity just to keep from getting tattled on? First of all, the evidence against him was flimsy at best, and secondly, everyone already know he was a big bad blackmailer, so it's not like his reputation would be ruined. He'd probably get, what, a fine? A slap on the wrist? And that's assuming he was convicted at all. Why would he be so scared of that? Not believable.
The other thing I found unsettling about the book was how much all the "good guy" characters are always pestering God about everything. I guess that's what Christians are supposed to do, but it seems really weird to me. You get yourself into these messes, and then you're constantly bugging God to swoop in and magically solve them for you, and protect you from everything? I've never quite understood that.
The religious stuff stopped just short of being obnoxious. If I had more time to waste and was in the mood for Jane Austen knockoff compelling fluff, I'd probably read another book in this series. But I wouldn't seek it out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
July 18, 2010I was so excited to read this book when I first saw the premise -- finally, something a little different! It was interesting to read about a "famous" author, who kept her identity a secret, but there were some slow parts as well. Overall, I would still recommend you give it a try. :)
Lilly Westbrook has always loved to write, whether it was poems, short stories, or her surprisingly popular dime novels. Her competition has upped the ante by holding public signing for her books, and Lilly's publisher would like her to do the same. However, Lilly is terrified by the likelihood of her family being shunned or even ostracized were anyone to find out that she is the famous Fanny Cole. The only person who knows her deep, dark secret is her very best friend in the world, Miranda Reid. Lilly wishes she could share her secret with her family, but she can't seem to get past her fear.
Jackson Grail was Lilly's first, and only, true love back in her teens. He and her brother George were the best of friends, and she slowly fell in love with him over the years. Though they discussed the idea of marriage, Jack didn't feel that he was good enough in the eyes of Lilly's parents, and his decision to leave for college just about broke Lilly's heart in two.
Years later, Jack and Lilly are together again, but only in the sense that he's come to visit George and is staying at Summerhill as his guest. Jack has finally come to realize that he still has feelings for Lilly, but she is now being courted by Harlan Santerre, a powerful railroad man, who I thought to be a pompous jerk throughout most of the book. I gotta tell you though -- his mother is even worse. Whew, that woman is horrible!
What I got from this book is that even though things in our life may sometimes seem to have gotten completely out of control -- and others may be hurt by the end result -- the only thing we can do is turn it all over to God, and trust Him to work everything out as He sees fit. This is something I struggle with on a daily basis, but I'm trying to trust God as Lilly did.
If you haven't had the opportunity to read Cara Lynn James' debut novel, be sure to pick up a copy the next time your out shopping for something new and interesting to read. You can also visit her at her website to find out more about her and her book.
Lilly Westbrook has always loved to write, whether it was poems, short stories, or her surprisingly popular dime novels. Her competition has upped the ante by holding public signing for her books, and Lilly's publisher would like her to do the same. However, Lilly is terrified by the likelihood of her family being shunned or even ostracized were anyone to find out that she is the famous Fanny Cole. The only person who knows her deep, dark secret is her very best friend in the world, Miranda Reid. Lilly wishes she could share her secret with her family, but she can't seem to get past her fear.
Jackson Grail was Lilly's first, and only, true love back in her teens. He and her brother George were the best of friends, and she slowly fell in love with him over the years. Though they discussed the idea of marriage, Jack didn't feel that he was good enough in the eyes of Lilly's parents, and his decision to leave for college just about broke Lilly's heart in two.
Years later, Jack and Lilly are together again, but only in the sense that he's come to visit George and is staying at Summerhill as his guest. Jack has finally come to realize that he still has feelings for Lilly, but she is now being courted by Harlan Santerre, a powerful railroad man, who I thought to be a pompous jerk throughout most of the book. I gotta tell you though -- his mother is even worse. Whew, that woman is horrible!
What I got from this book is that even though things in our life may sometimes seem to have gotten completely out of control -- and others may be hurt by the end result -- the only thing we can do is turn it all over to God, and trust Him to work everything out as He sees fit. This is something I struggle with on a daily basis, but I'm trying to trust God as Lilly did.
If you haven't had the opportunity to read Cara Lynn James' debut novel, be sure to pick up a copy the next time your out shopping for something new and interesting to read. You can also visit her at her website to find out more about her and her book.
June 3, 2014
I don't often contemplate not finishing a book, but I have to admit that several times I considered giving up on this one. The story simply failed to engage me, and the characters didn't pull me in either. The descriptions and dialogue often struck me as feeling somewhat stiff and matter of fact, which admittedly could partially be due to the time period that it's set in...however, I don't normally have this issue with other books in the genre.
Though I really like the premise of being a closet dime-novelist, this alone wasn't enough to endear Lilly to me. Her longtime blindness in the romance department irked me quite a bit; it was hard to believe she couldn't see just how wrong a certain someone was for her. Additionally, through-out most of the story there is an impending blackmail threat, and Lilly is so stubborn, and also naive, that she absolutely refuses to ask for help, instead floundering around on her own and waiting until the last possible minute to finally seek assistance. Jackson was in a perfect position to help her, which he offered to do multiple times, and I so wanted Lilly to trust him and take him up on his offer. Things would have been much easier if she had.
Despite my qualms with the overall story, I must admit that the church service towards the end really spoke to me. The few short verses that made up the sermon were well chosen, being relevant not only to the story, but also in my own life, coming at exactly the time I needed. It's so awesome when God is able to speak through fictional stories like that. And that moment alone--no matter what else I have to say about the story--made reading the whole book worth it.
Overall, as far as the actual story goes, I really struggled to get through it.... so unfortunately I don't think I'll be reading the rest of the series. I think part of what didn't mesh with my tastes was the Newport setting, and all the uppity society rules and games that go along with it. Still, I won't tell anyone to stay away from the book, because of the blessing I received through the church service in the story. Personal tastes aside, you know an author is doing something right when God is able to speak through their book in such a way!
Though I really like the premise of being a closet dime-novelist, this alone wasn't enough to endear Lilly to me. Her longtime blindness in the romance department irked me quite a bit; it was hard to believe she couldn't see just how wrong a certain someone was for her. Additionally, through-out most of the story there is an impending blackmail threat, and Lilly is so stubborn, and also naive, that she absolutely refuses to ask for help, instead floundering around on her own and waiting until the last possible minute to finally seek assistance. Jackson was in a perfect position to help her, which he offered to do multiple times, and I so wanted Lilly to trust him and take him up on his offer. Things would have been much easier if she had.
Despite my qualms with the overall story, I must admit that the church service towards the end really spoke to me. The few short verses that made up the sermon were well chosen, being relevant not only to the story, but also in my own life, coming at exactly the time I needed. It's so awesome when God is able to speak through fictional stories like that. And that moment alone--no matter what else I have to say about the story--made reading the whole book worth it.
Overall, as far as the actual story goes, I really struggled to get through it.... so unfortunately I don't think I'll be reading the rest of the series. I think part of what didn't mesh with my tastes was the Newport setting, and all the uppity society rules and games that go along with it. Still, I won't tell anyone to stay away from the book, because of the blessing I received through the church service in the story. Personal tastes aside, you know an author is doing something right when God is able to speak through their book in such a way!
October 27, 2010
Cara Lynn James in her new book, "Love On A Dime" Book One in her Ladies Of Summerhill series published by Thomas Nelson takes us to 1899 Newport, Rhode Island.
Lilly Westbrook has a secret identity: she writes dime novels under the nom de plume (pen name) of Fannie Cole. This may not shock us now, women write about anything now without society hindrances but in 1899 this was a definite no-no for a young lady of upper class society. So she cannot share her identity with her friends or family and certainly not her parents because they would not be proud of what she has accomplished.
Six years earlier, Jackson Grail made a costly decision, because he was poor and he lost the ability to marry Lilly now he has returned to try to rectify that mistake. His chances are complicated because Harlan Santerre, from a family even wealthier than the Westbrooks, has already proposed. On top of everything Lilly is being blackmailed to keep her identity secret
"Love On A Dime" is a delightful read full of atmosphere and history . Ms. James takes us back in time when the classes were well-defined by their money and society. But this book is more than just manners and money it is about trusting God and learning to lean on Him for His guidance and direction. The characters are so real and you root for their romance to blossom. Ms. James knows how to tell a story that is both interesting and delightful and I recommend it highly. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and business professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where it is available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station http://www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Lilly Westbrook has a secret identity: she writes dime novels under the nom de plume (pen name) of Fannie Cole. This may not shock us now, women write about anything now without society hindrances but in 1899 this was a definite no-no for a young lady of upper class society. So she cannot share her identity with her friends or family and certainly not her parents because they would not be proud of what she has accomplished.
Six years earlier, Jackson Grail made a costly decision, because he was poor and he lost the ability to marry Lilly now he has returned to try to rectify that mistake. His chances are complicated because Harlan Santerre, from a family even wealthier than the Westbrooks, has already proposed. On top of everything Lilly is being blackmailed to keep her identity secret
"Love On A Dime" is a delightful read full of atmosphere and history . Ms. James takes us back in time when the classes were well-defined by their money and society. But this book is more than just manners and money it is about trusting God and learning to lean on Him for His guidance and direction. The characters are so real and you root for their romance to blossom. Ms. James knows how to tell a story that is both interesting and delightful and I recommend it highly. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and business professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where it is available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station http://www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
September 29, 2010
From the Goodreads' synopsis:
"Turn of the century novelist Lilly Westbrook learns that being faithful to her calling means more than just putting pen to paper.
It's the summer of 1899 in Newport, Rhode Island, and Lilly Westbrook is struggling to conceal her career from family and friends because of the stigma attached to dime novels. Lilly feels good about her secret-after all, she's enlightening working class girls with her books and honoring God by using her talents to His glory.
But her secret is threatened when Jackson Grail, a former suitor, becomes Lilly's new publisher. He's determined to revive his floundering publishing house by maximizing their most promising--and most secretive--author. His plan? Find "Fannie Cole" and convince her to go public.
When a gossip columnist discovers Lilly's true identity, she finds that being faithful to her calling involves more than just putting pen to paper. It requires that she stand up for her faith and for herself, no matter the consequences."
This was my first experience with a historical Christian romance novel and it wasn't too bad.
Overall, I thought the story was well-written and the characters were likeable. The "bad guys" were just bad enough to be believable. Though there was mention of religion and pray, it wasn't overly done and didn't make the book uncomfortable to read.
I found it very sad that Lily had to hide her talent for writing great fiction for fear that those in her social set would shun her and her family. It seems kind of a shame that it was not acceptable in the upper class to have a diversion, like writing, and be looked at as a "commoner". It was interesting to me to see what was expected of each class. I think I would have been bored silly and it made me glad to be living in this century.
"Turn of the century novelist Lilly Westbrook learns that being faithful to her calling means more than just putting pen to paper.
It's the summer of 1899 in Newport, Rhode Island, and Lilly Westbrook is struggling to conceal her career from family and friends because of the stigma attached to dime novels. Lilly feels good about her secret-after all, she's enlightening working class girls with her books and honoring God by using her talents to His glory.
But her secret is threatened when Jackson Grail, a former suitor, becomes Lilly's new publisher. He's determined to revive his floundering publishing house by maximizing their most promising--and most secretive--author. His plan? Find "Fannie Cole" and convince her to go public.
When a gossip columnist discovers Lilly's true identity, she finds that being faithful to her calling involves more than just putting pen to paper. It requires that she stand up for her faith and for herself, no matter the consequences."
This was my first experience with a historical Christian romance novel and it wasn't too bad.
Overall, I thought the story was well-written and the characters were likeable. The "bad guys" were just bad enough to be believable. Though there was mention of religion and pray, it wasn't overly done and didn't make the book uncomfortable to read.
I found it very sad that Lily had to hide her talent for writing great fiction for fear that those in her social set would shun her and her family. It seems kind of a shame that it was not acceptable in the upper class to have a diversion, like writing, and be looked at as a "commoner". It was interesting to me to see what was expected of each class. I think I would have been bored silly and it made me glad to be living in this century.
July 6, 2010
In Newport, Rhode Island, in 1899, proper young ladies in wealthy society were ladies of leisure. They did not work, and they most certainly did not write dime novels. Lilly Westbrook has more worries than deciding which tea or ball to attend. The young man who is about to propose to her has opened up doors to the social elite increasing her family’s social status; and although Lilly doesn’t particularly care about mingling with society, her family does. If anyone finds out she writes dime novels under the nom de plume Fannie Cole, her family will be shunned from society and perhaps even face financial ruin. So, she must continue to write in secret, pretending to pen poetry as her excuse of staying holed up in her room for hours at a time.
Just when she finds herself getting over the heartbreak of her long-lost beau, Jackson Grail, and finally courting a suitable man for marriage, she finds Jackson as a summer houseguest once again. He’s recently purchased the company who publishes her novels. Can she protect her secret identity and her heart? Jackson still stirs up feelings she thought she’d put behind her. Which man will truly sacrifice everything to win her heart?
Jackson Grail regrets the decisions he made years earlier. He was a coward. He’s done well for himself and now he’s back to try and make things right. He suspects Lilly knows the true identity of the elusive Miss Fannie Cole. Why is she adamant about not helping him find her? Will he be able to convince Lilly that she can trust him again?
This book has a few twists and turns that one might not expect. Ms. James has made the secondary characters quite interesting and they support the main story nicely. This was Ms. James’ debut novel. I enjoyed reading it and look forward to her others in this Ladies of Summerhill series.
Just when she finds herself getting over the heartbreak of her long-lost beau, Jackson Grail, and finally courting a suitable man for marriage, she finds Jackson as a summer houseguest once again. He’s recently purchased the company who publishes her novels. Can she protect her secret identity and her heart? Jackson still stirs up feelings she thought she’d put behind her. Which man will truly sacrifice everything to win her heart?
Jackson Grail regrets the decisions he made years earlier. He was a coward. He’s done well for himself and now he’s back to try and make things right. He suspects Lilly knows the true identity of the elusive Miss Fannie Cole. Why is she adamant about not helping him find her? Will he be able to convince Lilly that she can trust him again?
This book has a few twists and turns that one might not expect. Ms. James has made the secondary characters quite interesting and they support the main story nicely. This was Ms. James’ debut novel. I enjoyed reading it and look forward to her others in this Ladies of Summerhill series.
January 10, 2011
This historical fiction piece is set in 19th Century New England where the main character, Lilly Westbrook, is a romance “dime novel” novelist – a profession that is considered scandalous amongst her fellow “society” families – so she writes in secret using the alias Fannie Cole. Besides trying to keep her writing career secret, Lilly must also contend with two men dueling for her love. The wealthy society catch, Harlan S., is about to propose to her, when her first sweetheart, Jackson Grail, appears back in her life and happens to purchase her publishing company. Drama ensues...
If Jane Austen and Francine Rivers coauthored a book, it might look something like this. Lucky for me, I love both authors! I really enjoyed this book, and could picture the characters well. Author Cara Lynn James uses Bible verses freely through the text while Lilly calls upon them to help her through times of crisis. While I have noticed some reviewers found this annoying, I thought they were well placed and helped us to understand Lilly's motivations and inspiration.
This book is dubbed “Ladies of Summerhill, Book One” so I assume that means more are coming and I plan on keeping my eyes open for them!
-Katie Casey
Thomas Nelson Book Review Blogger
http://booksneeze.com/
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
If Jane Austen and Francine Rivers coauthored a book, it might look something like this. Lucky for me, I love both authors! I really enjoyed this book, and could picture the characters well. Author Cara Lynn James uses Bible verses freely through the text while Lilly calls upon them to help her through times of crisis. While I have noticed some reviewers found this annoying, I thought they were well placed and helped us to understand Lilly's motivations and inspiration.
This book is dubbed “Ladies of Summerhill, Book One” so I assume that means more are coming and I plan on keeping my eyes open for them!
-Katie Casey
Thomas Nelson Book Review Blogger
http://booksneeze.com/
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
June 15, 2010
Love on a Dime by Cara Lynn James is the first book in the Ladies of Summerhill series about a summer home in Newport, Rhode Island during the Gilded Age. Lilly Westbrook secretly writes dime novels for fear of her family's disapproval, using the proceeds to help support a school for poor women, and is certain that it is her ministry for the Lord. Jackson Grail has spent most of his life trying to be a successful business man, to have the kind of money that would allow him mingle with the elite rich. He was in love with Lilly five years ago when he proposed but then ran away after overhearing her father dismiss him as unsuitable as a son-in-law. He's been trying to prove himself ever since, and buying a publishing house is part of that quest. Little does he know that top-selling dime novelist Fannie Cole is really Lilly. Spending the summer up in Newport with her family reawakens their feelings for each other, and puts Lilly's identity as Fannie in jeopardy when she is threatened by a notorious blackmailer. James mixes a smart heroine with a beautiful heart and a handsome hero in need of a second chance to great effect. She has also created several intriguing secondary characters who will surely be featured in future volumes in the series. It's a great romance about a fascinating time in history. I have one complaint about the book, but one that shouldn't affect anyone's enjoyment in it, and it didn't impact my grade. On the front cover, the model's fingernails are painted. Yes, it's a neutral color, but painted fingernails was not something that women of good breeding did in the Gilded Age, and definitely not anything that down-to-earth Lilly would do.
December 6, 2010
This was such a wonderfully fun book for me to read. As I sat down to write the review and thought about trying to be objective and look at writing style and character development and all those lovely things I ought to measure ~ well I just kept going back to how good I felt as I was reading it and how much I personally related to the story. It's my favorite kind of book ~ historical romance. It's one of my favorite time periods, it has an awesome cover... Plus I write in secret as well. I know I tell all of you - but none of my neighbors or friends know. I guess I'm a little afraid of how they'd react as well. So I could really relate to ow Lilly was feeling in many ways.
The story was interesting as well. There is that touch of mystery that kept you turning the pages. Just who is the man who is threatening to unveil her real identity and where is he getting his information? Will she be able to keep her secret? There also was more real tension about who she was going to choose in this book than in many romances.
Lilly battles insecurity in one way - and Jackson another. His is a very typical male one too. He wants to be able to be the provider - and to be looked up to be those around him. Raised around wealthy people but never having anything himself, he feels like he needs that wealth in order to have worth. He runs away from Lilly thinking he doesn't deserve her and she thinks he doesn't want her. Now he's back and she's being courted by someone else...
This is a great book. I highly recommend it to anyone who is a fan of historical romances.
The story was interesting as well. There is that touch of mystery that kept you turning the pages. Just who is the man who is threatening to unveil her real identity and where is he getting his information? Will she be able to keep her secret? There also was more real tension about who she was going to choose in this book than in many romances.
Lilly battles insecurity in one way - and Jackson another. His is a very typical male one too. He wants to be able to be the provider - and to be looked up to be those around him. Raised around wealthy people but never having anything himself, he feels like he needs that wealth in order to have worth. He runs away from Lilly thinking he doesn't deserve her and she thinks he doesn't want her. Now he's back and she's being courted by someone else...
This is a great book. I highly recommend it to anyone who is a fan of historical romances.
March 2, 2011
This is a charming and elegant novel with an air of romance and intrigue on the brink of secrets about to be revealed. Lily Westbrook turned to writing dime novels when Jackson Grail broke her heart six years ago, so it's understandable why she wouldn't want to turn to him for help when she's being blackmailed--even if he is her new publisher and the one person who could help. While the rest of her family seems to be playing Christian to the tune of Society's standards, Lily is really living out her biblical beliefs with the one exception of deceiving her family of her writing. This one spiritual flaw helped her character be more believable and real.
As a young man, Jackson Grail knew her parents wouldn't approve of him as a poor boy, so he left Lily to go to college, build a business, and make himself worthy of her. Six years later he returns to find her practically engaged to a wealthy college chum he never much liked. His goal is to win her back and build his business, but Lily fears that she can't trust him after what happened. In her eyes, he puts money and success above people and love.
The characters' actions, background, and goals are believable. The conflict is appropriate and faith plays an integral part of the storyline. This is the kind of story where the plot build and builds and builds to one climatic point toward the end. There isn't much mystery as the reader knows where everyone stands on the issues, but there is the anticipation of how it will all play out. As a reader I was satisfied with the ending and would definitely recommend this book.
As a young man, Jackson Grail knew her parents wouldn't approve of him as a poor boy, so he left Lily to go to college, build a business, and make himself worthy of her. Six years later he returns to find her practically engaged to a wealthy college chum he never much liked. His goal is to win her back and build his business, but Lily fears that she can't trust him after what happened. In her eyes, he puts money and success above people and love.
The characters' actions, background, and goals are believable. The conflict is appropriate and faith plays an integral part of the storyline. This is the kind of story where the plot build and builds and builds to one climatic point toward the end. There isn't much mystery as the reader knows where everyone stands on the issues, but there is the anticipation of how it will all play out. As a reader I was satisfied with the ending and would definitely recommend this book.
March 17, 2011
Lilly and Jackson fell in love and planned to marry when they where young adults but Jackson ended up breaking the engagement off and leaving Lilly with a broken heart. Six years later Jackson returns to win Lilly back but is it to late?
The story line of this book sounded interesting to me. Lilly writes dime novels that have a bad reputation among the upper class that she is a part of. So she writes in secret. The difference is her books have a good message with Christian principles. She feels God is calling her to spread his good news through her books and she also helps supports a Christian ran woman’s home with her books income.
Jackson has spent the last six years trying to make enough money so that he can come back and finally ask Lilly to be his wife. The problem is when he shows up she is almost pledged to be married to another. To make matters more interesting he also purchases the publishing house that sells Lilly's books.
The story line was interesting but for me I started to have trouble staying focused about half way through it just seemed to drag on some. Lilly had to deal with her pen name and whether to tell her family and Jackson. Jackson seemed to already know so when she finally told him it seemed almost like a mute point. Also her engagement to another guy was a really week story line. One minute her family was so excited and then they seemed indifferent when it was over.
Over all I did enjoy reading it and look forward to reading the 2nd book in the series.
The story line of this book sounded interesting to me. Lilly writes dime novels that have a bad reputation among the upper class that she is a part of. So she writes in secret. The difference is her books have a good message with Christian principles. She feels God is calling her to spread his good news through her books and she also helps supports a Christian ran woman’s home with her books income.
Jackson has spent the last six years trying to make enough money so that he can come back and finally ask Lilly to be his wife. The problem is when he shows up she is almost pledged to be married to another. To make matters more interesting he also purchases the publishing house that sells Lilly's books.
The story line was interesting but for me I started to have trouble staying focused about half way through it just seemed to drag on some. Lilly had to deal with her pen name and whether to tell her family and Jackson. Jackson seemed to already know so when she finally told him it seemed almost like a mute point. Also her engagement to another guy was a really week story line. One minute her family was so excited and then they seemed indifferent when it was over.
Over all I did enjoy reading it and look forward to reading the 2nd book in the series.
January 21, 2012
This is a Ladies of Summerhill novel "Love on a Dime" by Cara Lynn James. The time period is almost 1900 and the setting is Newport Rhode Island. Many in this area are well to do folks and they live by certain codes and if you are wealthy it is not the thing to have a job and work, Lilly Westbrook fell in love at a young age with a young fella , not of the elite..He proposed and she accepted but when he went to ask papa's permission he overheard a conversation leading him to believe that Lilly's parents would never accept him. He believed he had to let her go and make his fortune before he would be accepted by the wealthy folks in the area.
Lilly was heartbroken and after Jackson left she turned to writing novels under another name so no one would know. She even is courted by a wealthy young man for awhile and tho she knows she cannot love him she is willing to settle and be the best wife she can be when he proposes to her.
Jackson was gone 6 yrs making his fortune and then returns hoping that Lilly might still accept him as a suitor, He desperately loves her still.
There are some twist to this story when someone finds out who is writing the dime-store romance novels, there is mention of blackmail. you will want to read this book and learn how the rich and famous live a different lifestyle and what happens when Jackson and Lilly spend time together again. Can he win her love again? Can she trust this man that left so abruptly and has now returned?
Lilly was heartbroken and after Jackson left she turned to writing novels under another name so no one would know. She even is courted by a wealthy young man for awhile and tho she knows she cannot love him she is willing to settle and be the best wife she can be when he proposes to her.
Jackson was gone 6 yrs making his fortune and then returns hoping that Lilly might still accept him as a suitor, He desperately loves her still.
There are some twist to this story when someone finds out who is writing the dime-store romance novels, there is mention of blackmail. you will want to read this book and learn how the rich and famous live a different lifestyle and what happens when Jackson and Lilly spend time together again. Can he win her love again? Can she trust this man that left so abruptly and has now returned?
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