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Ladies of Summerhill #2
Love on Assignment
The chance to break the big story is all Charlotte needs to secure her future. But when the truth comes out--it may cost her the love of her life. Newport, Rhode Island, in 1900--a glamorous resort town where the rich and famous go to see and be seen. Charlotte Hale isn't part of that world. She's a working girl, a secretary for a local newspaper, who dreams of becoming a real reporter. When her boss offers her an assignment, she jumps at the opportunity. She'll go undercover as a governess to invesitgate a scandal about her new employer, Daniel Wilmont, a young widowed professor of religion who writes a controversial column in a rival newspaper. Charlotte's qualms about misrepresenting herself to Daniel soon morph into a deeper quandry. How can she get the goods on a man who turns out ot be so honorable? How can she plot the downfall of a family that has inspired her to rediscover her faith? And how can she protect the man she now loves from a scheme she's been part of since the beginning? A fascinating tale of love and faith in the Gilded Age...from the author of Love on a Dime. "James uses carefully described settings and characters...to dramatically contrast life in the Gilded Age in Newport, Rhode Island, between the working class and the wealthy." -- Booklist
327 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2010
17 people are currently reading
693 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 89 reviews
September 6, 2015
SUMMARY: The chance to break the big story is all Charlotte needs to secure her future. But when the truth comes out―it may cost her the love of her life.
Newport, Rhode Island, in 1900―a glamorous resort town where the rich and famous go to see and be seen.
Charlotte Hale isn't part of that world. She's a working girl, a secretary for a local newspaper, who dreams of becoming a real reporter. When her boss offers her an assignment, she jumps at the opportunity. She'll go undercover as a governess to investigate a scandal about her new employer, Daniel Wilmont, a young widowed professor of religion who writes a controversial column in a rival newspaper.
Charlotte's qualms about misrepresenting herself to Daniel soon morph into a deeper quandary. How can she get the goods on a man who turns out to be so honorable? How can she plot the downfall of a family that has inspired her to rediscover her faith? And how can she protect the man she now loves from a scheme she's been part of since the beginning?
REVIEW: This is the second book in the Ladies of Summerhill series, but it reads well as a standalone. James through both her setting, characters and story line shows the great disparity between the rich summer visitors to Newport and the working class poor who serve them. The story line and Charlotte's quandary of balancing her undercover role with her growing faith kept my attention throughout the book. Charlotte and Daniel both find themselves having to decide whether supporting their families or following God's will was the priority in their lives. The minor characters added nice detail to this story particularly Daniel's 2 children and his curmodgeonly mother as well as some of the servants who developed friendships with Charlotte. The central theme of forgiveness, pursuing God's will and growth in walking with God all permeated the story line.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "God made man in His own image, which elevates man above all other creatures. Loving God makes it possible for us to love our neighbor. Now we must ask: Who exactly is our neighbor? The answer is obvious. Our neighbor includes everyone, not just the man who lives next door."
"Falling into the sin of dishonesty will destroy our relationship to the Lord and also to the people we associate with in our daily lives. Honesty is a reflection of one's inner character."
"Papa, praying is important but sometimes the Lord is slow in answering.....Obviously complaining about Gods timing doesn't make Him act any quicker if He doesn't want to."
"Don't indulge yourself by worrying about your failings. We all got 'em. None of us is perfect. So get on with your life and do better next time.
Newport, Rhode Island, in 1900―a glamorous resort town where the rich and famous go to see and be seen.
Charlotte Hale isn't part of that world. She's a working girl, a secretary for a local newspaper, who dreams of becoming a real reporter. When her boss offers her an assignment, she jumps at the opportunity. She'll go undercover as a governess to investigate a scandal about her new employer, Daniel Wilmont, a young widowed professor of religion who writes a controversial column in a rival newspaper.
Charlotte's qualms about misrepresenting herself to Daniel soon morph into a deeper quandary. How can she get the goods on a man who turns out to be so honorable? How can she plot the downfall of a family that has inspired her to rediscover her faith? And how can she protect the man she now loves from a scheme she's been part of since the beginning?
REVIEW: This is the second book in the Ladies of Summerhill series, but it reads well as a standalone. James through both her setting, characters and story line shows the great disparity between the rich summer visitors to Newport and the working class poor who serve them. The story line and Charlotte's quandary of balancing her undercover role with her growing faith kept my attention throughout the book. Charlotte and Daniel both find themselves having to decide whether supporting their families or following God's will was the priority in their lives. The minor characters added nice detail to this story particularly Daniel's 2 children and his curmodgeonly mother as well as some of the servants who developed friendships with Charlotte. The central theme of forgiveness, pursuing God's will and growth in walking with God all permeated the story line.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "God made man in His own image, which elevates man above all other creatures. Loving God makes it possible for us to love our neighbor. Now we must ask: Who exactly is our neighbor? The answer is obvious. Our neighbor includes everyone, not just the man who lives next door."
"Falling into the sin of dishonesty will destroy our relationship to the Lord and also to the people we associate with in our daily lives. Honesty is a reflection of one's inner character."
"Papa, praying is important but sometimes the Lord is slow in answering.....Obviously complaining about Gods timing doesn't make Him act any quicker if He doesn't want to."
"Don't indulge yourself by worrying about your failings. We all got 'em. None of us is perfect. So get on with your life and do better next time.
January 31, 2011
I needed a really nice, sweet book, nothing to heavy, nothing too sad, and "Love on Assignment" really delivered. It was a really relaxing read!
I really liked Daniel, and I wanted to know even more about him. Even thought the book was written from both Charlotte and Daniel's points of view, it was definitely skewed more towards Charlotte's inner thoughts and feelings. I find this happens quite a bit in Christian historical romance. But I think Daniel had a lot more to say than what we knew. For instance, how did he really feel about his late wife? What were some of the many trinkets he hoarded in his attic along with his feelings of guilt and anger towards his failed marriage? These are just a few of the questions that I thought were really interesting about Daniel, but I didn't feel like they were resolved.
I love reading about the Gilded Age, and it was great to see both a middle class and an upper class point of view. In books, we often see the richest of the rich and the poorest of the poor. Here it was really nice to see more of the middle. Charlotte had to work hard to support her aunt and sister, but they had a comfortable home. Daniel was very well off, with servants and a mansion, but we also saw him working, and he wasn't a socialite like the characters we usually see in this era. The class differences between Daniel and Charlotte were shown but they didn't see it as an obstacle, they had bigger challenges to overcome.
I recommend this book if you've been doing too much heavy reading and need a relaxing break!! This book is much like falling onto a huge fluffy cushion to read and relax.
book sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
I really liked Daniel, and I wanted to know even more about him. Even thought the book was written from both Charlotte and Daniel's points of view, it was definitely skewed more towards Charlotte's inner thoughts and feelings. I find this happens quite a bit in Christian historical romance. But I think Daniel had a lot more to say than what we knew. For instance, how did he really feel about his late wife? What were some of the many trinkets he hoarded in his attic along with his feelings of guilt and anger towards his failed marriage? These are just a few of the questions that I thought were really interesting about Daniel, but I didn't feel like they were resolved.
I love reading about the Gilded Age, and it was great to see both a middle class and an upper class point of view. In books, we often see the richest of the rich and the poorest of the poor. Here it was really nice to see more of the middle. Charlotte had to work hard to support her aunt and sister, but they had a comfortable home. Daniel was very well off, with servants and a mansion, but we also saw him working, and he wasn't a socialite like the characters we usually see in this era. The class differences between Daniel and Charlotte were shown but they didn't see it as an obstacle, they had bigger challenges to overcome.
I recommend this book if you've been doing too much heavy reading and need a relaxing break!! This book is much like falling onto a huge fluffy cushion to read and relax.
book sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
January 30, 2011
While I like a simple romance story every now and again where the main focus of the story is simply about romance, this story didn't really do it for me. I felt as if the story dragged on at a lagging pace, and it made it less than enjoyable to read. The story may have better served as a novella instead of a novel, because all of the important bits of the story could have easily been condensed into one. If it had been a novella, I think I might have liked the story well enough.
That is, of course, except for the fatal flaw: I am not a fan of romance novels where either the male or female character must become a stronger Christian in order for the romance to work out (the only novel I've ever read where this worked at all was Redeeming Love). I did not like that Charlotte went from a poor Christian to a good Christian for the sake of romance. I do not mind people being saved in books, but I think it should be done for some other purpose other than a successful romance.
I don't particularly enjoy giving bad reviews, because I realize it is very hard to write stories, so who am I to critique another person's labor of love? And so I will say that this book will probably be enjoyed by a great many people. I just happen to not be one of the people that enjoyed the book. Not my cup of tea, I suppose.
That is, of course, except for the fatal flaw: I am not a fan of romance novels where either the male or female character must become a stronger Christian in order for the romance to work out (the only novel I've ever read where this worked at all was Redeeming Love). I did not like that Charlotte went from a poor Christian to a good Christian for the sake of romance. I do not mind people being saved in books, but I think it should be done for some other purpose other than a successful romance.
I don't particularly enjoy giving bad reviews, because I realize it is very hard to write stories, so who am I to critique another person's labor of love? And so I will say that this book will probably be enjoyed by a great many people. I just happen to not be one of the people that enjoyed the book. Not my cup of tea, I suppose.
February 15, 2011
Love on Assignment tells us the early 1900s love story between Charlotte Hale, a woman with a dream of becoming a journalist in a man's world, and Daniel Wilmont, a Bible professor and religious columnist for the Newport Gazette. Daniel's social reform columns have invoked fury among industrialists.
Charlotte is employed by the Rhode Island Reporter (the direct competitor to the Newport Gazette) as a secretary with dreams of becoming a reporter. When her boss comes to her with a choice assignment - to investigate Professor Wilmont - Charlotte feels that this is her big break. With mounting bills to pay due to her being the prime caretaker of her aging aunt and wheelchair-bound sister, she agrees to the clandestine mission, although niggling doubts creep into the edges of her mind. She goes undercover as the governess for Daniel's two children, Tim and Ruthie.
Daniel is immediately taken by his new governess. With his own secrets, years in the past, but not forgotten, Daniel is finally trying to put the past behind him and move forward with his life.
Charlotte secretly investigates Daniel and uncovers some information about him that makes her rethink everything. In the process she comes to understand the role that God plays in her life.
As these two unlikely characters forge a fragile relationship, built on lies, what will happen when everything comes crashing down around them?
This is a very nice, sweet story. I enjoyed the characters and the tension surrounding the plot kept me turning the pages, anxious to see what would happen next. However, the middle of the book just dragged on and on. Truly, at least 50 pages of it could have been cut out. There was scene after scene of Charlotte saying "I must tell you what I've been hiding!" and Daniel saying "Eh, don't worry about it. It's all good." Okay, so I used my own language there, but you get my drift. It drove me nuts after a while. I just wanted them to get it over with already! Then, the ending wrapped up way too quickly! I wished it was drawn out a bit more. I don't read a lot of romance, but when I do the money scenes are when the hero and heroine finally figure it all out and come together in the end. I just felt like all of the preceeding 300+ page build-up was a bit of a let-down.
What I loved about this book is Charlotte discovering her faith in God. I thought some of the scenes where she was reading the Bible and praying were very sweet. She seemed a bit hesitant, not sure what she should be doing, but hoping it would all work out. Isn't that how we all kind of feel at first? It was inspiring and these scenes were some of my favorites in the novel.
To sum up, this is a nice, tender Christian historical romance that I had a few issues with, but would recommend.
Jennifer
http://www.crazy-for-books.com
Charlotte is employed by the Rhode Island Reporter (the direct competitor to the Newport Gazette) as a secretary with dreams of becoming a reporter. When her boss comes to her with a choice assignment - to investigate Professor Wilmont - Charlotte feels that this is her big break. With mounting bills to pay due to her being the prime caretaker of her aging aunt and wheelchair-bound sister, she agrees to the clandestine mission, although niggling doubts creep into the edges of her mind. She goes undercover as the governess for Daniel's two children, Tim and Ruthie.
Daniel is immediately taken by his new governess. With his own secrets, years in the past, but not forgotten, Daniel is finally trying to put the past behind him and move forward with his life.
Charlotte secretly investigates Daniel and uncovers some information about him that makes her rethink everything. In the process she comes to understand the role that God plays in her life.
As these two unlikely characters forge a fragile relationship, built on lies, what will happen when everything comes crashing down around them?
This is a very nice, sweet story. I enjoyed the characters and the tension surrounding the plot kept me turning the pages, anxious to see what would happen next. However, the middle of the book just dragged on and on. Truly, at least 50 pages of it could have been cut out. There was scene after scene of Charlotte saying "I must tell you what I've been hiding!" and Daniel saying "Eh, don't worry about it. It's all good." Okay, so I used my own language there, but you get my drift. It drove me nuts after a while. I just wanted them to get it over with already! Then, the ending wrapped up way too quickly! I wished it was drawn out a bit more. I don't read a lot of romance, but when I do the money scenes are when the hero and heroine finally figure it all out and come together in the end. I just felt like all of the preceeding 300+ page build-up was a bit of a let-down.
What I loved about this book is Charlotte discovering her faith in God. I thought some of the scenes where she was reading the Bible and praying were very sweet. She seemed a bit hesitant, not sure what she should be doing, but hoping it would all work out. Isn't that how we all kind of feel at first? It was inspiring and these scenes were some of my favorites in the novel.
To sum up, this is a nice, tender Christian historical romance that I had a few issues with, but would recommend.
Jennifer
http://www.crazy-for-books.com
January 20, 2011
I'll admit to being intrigued by the lifestyles of the rich and famous especially those of the 19th century and the Gilded Age. This series, Ladies of Summerhill blends both the lower and upper classes and it's set in the resort town of Newport, Rhode Island. I'm pleased to say that this series is definitely a keeper! I liked the first book Love on a Dime but this one is sooo much better! I'm usually not thrilled by the second book in any series but not so with this one. I really like where Ms. James is going with the female writer angle. Lilly was a dime novel author, Charlotte is an aspiring newspaper columnist and I'm not sure what Melinda from Love by the Book (Book 3) will be like but I'm sure if she's anything like Charlotte it will be fun!
Charlotte is a young woman trying to care for her sister and elderly aunt so when the opportunity arises for her to make a name for herself in the prominently male environment at the newspaper where she works as a secretary she jumps at the chance. Little does she know that the "assignment" would lead her to love and a rediscovery of her faith. Daniel Wilmont, the prominent religious professor and columnist for a competing newspaper has no clue that Charlotte has a secret that could destroy them both.
It is all very romantic and has a great lesson about being truthful and doing what's right no matter what. All the time I was reading this I couldn't help but compare it to Jane Eyre one of my all-time favorite classics. The younger woman and the older wealthy gentleman, the wife from the past and the caring housekeeper were just a few elements that brought that familiar classic to mind. If you're a fan of romance and Christian fiction, Love on Assignment is a book to look for!
* I received my review copy from the publisher in exchange for posting my honest opinion and review of the book.*
Charlotte is a young woman trying to care for her sister and elderly aunt so when the opportunity arises for her to make a name for herself in the prominently male environment at the newspaper where she works as a secretary she jumps at the chance. Little does she know that the "assignment" would lead her to love and a rediscovery of her faith. Daniel Wilmont, the prominent religious professor and columnist for a competing newspaper has no clue that Charlotte has a secret that could destroy them both.
It is all very romantic and has a great lesson about being truthful and doing what's right no matter what. All the time I was reading this I couldn't help but compare it to Jane Eyre one of my all-time favorite classics. The younger woman and the older wealthy gentleman, the wife from the past and the caring housekeeper were just a few elements that brought that familiar classic to mind. If you're a fan of romance and Christian fiction, Love on Assignment is a book to look for!
* I received my review copy from the publisher in exchange for posting my honest opinion and review of the book.*
July 9, 2020
The perfect story of forgiveness
December 18, 2013
Book two of the ladies of summerhill. Love this book carried it everywhere to get to read. its about love faith and forgiveness. I was drawn in to the book for the first few pages. The way the book is written I felt like i was in the book. I know it is part of a series but this book can definately be read alone also. I definitely recommend this book. Cant want to read the third one.
August 7, 2014
This used a plot that has been very over-used: governess falls for widower employer. This had a nice twist that kept me reading (governess placed in home to try to discredit her employer). but still nothing amazing. If you want a nice, light read, this would be a good choice
July 22, 2015
After reading the first book in the series Ijust had to read the second, which is this one. I have the third witing for me waiting to start. The series is about the upper crust society but I did enjoy it more than I thought I would.
January 14, 2017
A sweet story of love and forgiveness. Interesting, likable characters and a little mysterious drama make this an enjoyable read. Inspirational romance lovers would definitely enjoy this book.
February 1, 2026
If your looking for a small cute and safe book to read this is a good one. It is a faith inspired book, so it really can’t get any safer. No crying, no tragic, and none of that stuff that makes you want to throw the book across the room. Which is what I needed after the previous book I had read. However even though it is a Christian book I really would have liked a little more sparkle. I found it to be a little annoying the middle.
Meaning the beginning was really good, the whole introduction and and her interview and her getting the job. Snooping around it was all good. and the end was great as well it honestly had the perfect ending but after the first time she goes back to her boss to report al the way to the wedding, it was all so hard for me to stay engaged. I powered through only because I was a small book yet it still took me forever to finish it feels like.
But the message behind the book was loud and clear and even helped to remind me of where my faith stands. So yes if you need a break from an overwhelming reading journey. This is honestly a great book to pick up!
Meaning the beginning was really good, the whole introduction and and her interview and her getting the job. Snooping around it was all good. and the end was great as well it honestly had the perfect ending but after the first time she goes back to her boss to report al the way to the wedding, it was all so hard for me to stay engaged. I powered through only because I was a small book yet it still took me forever to finish it feels like.
But the message behind the book was loud and clear and even helped to remind me of where my faith stands. So yes if you need a break from an overwhelming reading journey. This is honestly a great book to pick up!
March 19, 2018
Enjoyed reading this second book from the series!
It was great seeing new characters in this book as well as the previous main characters from the first book. This can be a stand alone novel without having to read the first book.
Both come from different pasts and it was wonderful how far Charlotte was able to change as she began to have an experience with God and love. Daniel also had changes in his life and forgiveness was a major theme in this novel.
I loved how this author did not shy away from including labor rights and how controversial it was during a time in which the industrialists and the upper class were trying to control their workers from revolting and protesting against unfair wages and rights.
The only complaint I had was that I wished there was an epilogue!
Overall, it was a good read!
Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
It was great seeing new characters in this book as well as the previous main characters from the first book. This can be a stand alone novel without having to read the first book.
Both come from different pasts and it was wonderful how far Charlotte was able to change as she began to have an experience with God and love. Daniel also had changes in his life and forgiveness was a major theme in this novel.
I loved how this author did not shy away from including labor rights and how controversial it was during a time in which the industrialists and the upper class were trying to control their workers from revolting and protesting against unfair wages and rights.
The only complaint I had was that I wished there was an epilogue!
Overall, it was a good read!
Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
February 25, 2018
I didn't fall in love as much with this story as I did the first one. Everything wrapped up too conveniently at the end for the characters. The faith story was good, all about discovering a real faith for oneself and a personal relationship with God, and finding forgiveness. But the characters themselves irritated me with their lack of sense about real life situations...too naive. So that is why I gave it such a low rating.
March 9, 2022
Solid Christian book. I did like it as it was pretty good but it was not all that interesting, especially at the beginning and the main character having a weak resolve to take on a task that goes against her morals was already quite maddening. The book is solid, I do like it and would recommend it to people who enjoy just a simple good romantic book.
April 16, 2022
Themes of forgiveness and restitution are woven throughout this riveting story. I was surprised to learn how long, challenging the process was for the author to complete writing this book! I just love Historical Christian fiction, and this is now one of my favorites! I was able to read a copy of this book via Hoopla, but it did not in any way affect my review. All opinions are my own.
October 15, 2022
This was pretty good. Charlotte and Daniel were cute and I liked their chemistry. But the ending sort of dragged on for me. I understand Charlotte feeling guilty for deceiving Daniel, but the prolonged ending of her rejecting him several times because of how guilty she felt (when you know they're going to get together) made me start skimming the last few chapters.
January 25, 2026
4.5 stars
This was just as immersive and gripping as the first in the series, though the connection between the two is loose. I truly enjoyed both MCs and the character growth they have through the story. The “man of principle” isn’t perfect yet and the “will do anything to become a journalist” girl may find out just how much limit her ambition actually has. Nice satisfying story.
This was just as immersive and gripping as the first in the series, though the connection between the two is loose. I truly enjoyed both MCs and the character growth they have through the story. The “man of principle” isn’t perfect yet and the “will do anything to become a journalist” girl may find out just how much limit her ambition actually has. Nice satisfying story.
September 17, 2017
I absolutely loved this book! It's such a good story about forgiveness.
November 17, 2017
Another fun & clean Christian romance. Loved it.
March 29, 2020
Actual rating: 2.5 stars
April 18, 2020
Well i did it. I finally read the book that has been in my room for years and I still don't know where it came from.
Romance is not my favorite genre but as things go, it's not a bad book
Romance is not my favorite genre but as things go, it's not a bad book
October 11, 2020
It just wasnt for me. I like a good "cheesy hallmark-esque love story" on occasion but this one seemed too cheesy. Perhaps better as a short story/novella instead.
March 29, 2011
Love On Assignment by Cara Lynn James
As I mentioned, this is the second book in the Ladies of Summerhill series by Cara Lynn James.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I am under no requirement to write a positive review, just an honest one.
The first book in the series, Love On A Dime, I read fairly recently. You can read my review for that book here.
However, if you want to read Love On Assignment as a stand-alone, you do not need to read the first book in the series first. While you see the characters from the first book again, you miss nothing by not having read the first book.
Love On Assignment is the story of a young, aspiring newspaper journalist, Charlotte Hale. At the time female journalists were virtually unheard of, but Charlotte's fondest dream is to become an actual journalist who gets to write news stories. She has been working at the Rhode Island Reporter, when her boss gives her the opportunity of a lifetime: the chance to become an actual journalist!
Charlotte's boss wants her to go undercover and take a job as the governess for Daniel Wilmont, and while doing so, she is to spy on him in order to find anything incriminating by which the Rhode Island Reporter can discredit him and destroy his reputation.
Though slightly uncomfortable with the nature of the assignment, Charlotte knows that this is her big chance to become a true journalist as her boss has promised her a promotion if she is successful. Also, she is responsible for the bulk of the income that pays for her aunt and sister's care, so she is in no position to turn down a well-paying job, not when lawyers and debt collectors are after her for unpaid bills.
So, Charlotte manages to get hired on as the governess for Daniel Wilmont's two children and begins her job spying on him. While initially impartial, as she comes to know more about Daniel Wilmont she is unable to find the incriminating evidence that her boss wants her to find. Instead, she finds Daniel to be a kind, Christian man who lives and honest life and whose biggest offense is writing in favor of the poor workers and asking the rich to treat the poor with dignity and respect as any good Christian should.
Charlotte begins to have her eyes opened to God through Daniel, and the assignment gets tougher and tougher as time goes by. But hanging over her head are the job possibilities and the money to take care of her family and pay the bills.
Will Charlotte sell out in order to destroy Daniel Wilmont, even if it means coming up with fake evidence or exposing his most private life though he has treated her constantly with dignity and respect? Or will Charlotte be forced to make the choice between love and her job aspirations?
Read Love On Assignment to find out!
While enjoyable, the Ladies of Summerhill isn't my favorite series that I have ever read. That being said, it is still a beautiful series full of Christian values and a bit of romance.
I do appreciate that Charlotte Hale has grand aspirations for life as more than a housewife, something very uncommon in the early 1900s. I thought we got a great look into her mind, and a deep understanding of how hard it would be to be in her position: she needs the money desperately, but her boss, Daniel, is a good man who doesn't deserve the vendetta that her newspaper boss has against him.
I think we all have been in really tough situations where the choice was difficult to make, and this book does a good job at showing how God can lead you to the right decision, no matter how difficult.
4 out of 5 stars.
As I mentioned, this is the second book in the Ladies of Summerhill series by Cara Lynn James.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I am under no requirement to write a positive review, just an honest one.
The first book in the series, Love On A Dime, I read fairly recently. You can read my review for that book here.
However, if you want to read Love On Assignment as a stand-alone, you do not need to read the first book in the series first. While you see the characters from the first book again, you miss nothing by not having read the first book.
Love On Assignment is the story of a young, aspiring newspaper journalist, Charlotte Hale. At the time female journalists were virtually unheard of, but Charlotte's fondest dream is to become an actual journalist who gets to write news stories. She has been working at the Rhode Island Reporter, when her boss gives her the opportunity of a lifetime: the chance to become an actual journalist!
Charlotte's boss wants her to go undercover and take a job as the governess for Daniel Wilmont, and while doing so, she is to spy on him in order to find anything incriminating by which the Rhode Island Reporter can discredit him and destroy his reputation.
Though slightly uncomfortable with the nature of the assignment, Charlotte knows that this is her big chance to become a true journalist as her boss has promised her a promotion if she is successful. Also, she is responsible for the bulk of the income that pays for her aunt and sister's care, so she is in no position to turn down a well-paying job, not when lawyers and debt collectors are after her for unpaid bills.
So, Charlotte manages to get hired on as the governess for Daniel Wilmont's two children and begins her job spying on him. While initially impartial, as she comes to know more about Daniel Wilmont she is unable to find the incriminating evidence that her boss wants her to find. Instead, she finds Daniel to be a kind, Christian man who lives and honest life and whose biggest offense is writing in favor of the poor workers and asking the rich to treat the poor with dignity and respect as any good Christian should.
Charlotte begins to have her eyes opened to God through Daniel, and the assignment gets tougher and tougher as time goes by. But hanging over her head are the job possibilities and the money to take care of her family and pay the bills.
Will Charlotte sell out in order to destroy Daniel Wilmont, even if it means coming up with fake evidence or exposing his most private life though he has treated her constantly with dignity and respect? Or will Charlotte be forced to make the choice between love and her job aspirations?
Read Love On Assignment to find out!
While enjoyable, the Ladies of Summerhill isn't my favorite series that I have ever read. That being said, it is still a beautiful series full of Christian values and a bit of romance.
I do appreciate that Charlotte Hale has grand aspirations for life as more than a housewife, something very uncommon in the early 1900s. I thought we got a great look into her mind, and a deep understanding of how hard it would be to be in her position: she needs the money desperately, but her boss, Daniel, is a good man who doesn't deserve the vendetta that her newspaper boss has against him.
I think we all have been in really tough situations where the choice was difficult to make, and this book does a good job at showing how God can lead you to the right decision, no matter how difficult.
4 out of 5 stars.
January 17, 2012
Cute cover, no? When TLC Book Tours contacted me about reviewing some Christian fiction, I jumped at the chance. It's a genre I haven't read since I think March of last year, and it's a genre I found myself missing. Christian fiction can be a touchy genre, but I've always had something of a soft spot for it. Janette Oake's Love Come Softly series, which I read when I was ridiculously young, had a huge impact on my reading choices during middle school and high school. It's like most other genre fiction in that it can be ludicrously bad, but it's a genre I feel like is consistently improving, very similar to YA.
Cara Lynn James' Ladies of Summerhill series leans more toward the frivolous side of fiction, but makes for a great read. In fact, I also took the opportunity to read the other book in the series Love On A Dime. Each book is set in turn of the century Victorian New England and follows the typical romance set up: man meets woman, man and woman fall in love, obstacles arise, love triumphs in the end.
Writing
I can't lie, there are some cheesey lines in the series. A few even had my eyes rolling. But some parts made me question my beliefs about what constitutes cheesey and what doesn't. There's a moment in Love On Assignment when a character prays and is describes as talking to the Lord as if to a friend. My first reaction was to eye roll. But I reread the paragraph and it hit me that it really fit for that character. It also hit me that in this situation the character was praying for a friend. And although I felt it was really cheesey at first, it made me think of how maybe instead of trying to offer my friends advice when they're going through hard times, it might be better to offer to pray with them. I always say "I'll pray for you" but I wonder how my friends would react if I offered to pray with them instead. Deep thoughts, I know, and it all came from a "cheesey" little line.
MST3K
Very enjoyable. As a pre-teen and later as a teen, I had very bad insomnia. Up all night insomnia. Which, let me just tell you, is really stressful. And to keep myself calm I'd stop looking at the clock and pick up a Christian romance novel (obviously the only kind of romance novel allowed in the Clark home). Reading Love On Assignment and Love On A Dime really reminded me of those nights. And I ended up reading both books in two days - and staying up way into the night to do so! While it's not a book I recommend to my readers who are into literary fiction or the classics or more hearty fare, it's definitely one I recommend as a light diversion. And who knows, it may make you think a little bit harder about your faith? I was surprised to find myself considering some of the aspects of faith brought up by the books in a deeper light than I did as a teen.
Cara Lynn James' Ladies of Summerhill series leans more toward the frivolous side of fiction, but makes for a great read. In fact, I also took the opportunity to read the other book in the series Love On A Dime. Each book is set in turn of the century Victorian New England and follows the typical romance set up: man meets woman, man and woman fall in love, obstacles arise, love triumphs in the end.
Writing
I can't lie, there are some cheesey lines in the series. A few even had my eyes rolling. But some parts made me question my beliefs about what constitutes cheesey and what doesn't. There's a moment in Love On Assignment when a character prays and is describes as talking to the Lord as if to a friend. My first reaction was to eye roll. But I reread the paragraph and it hit me that it really fit for that character. It also hit me that in this situation the character was praying for a friend. And although I felt it was really cheesey at first, it made me think of how maybe instead of trying to offer my friends advice when they're going through hard times, it might be better to offer to pray with them. I always say "I'll pray for you" but I wonder how my friends would react if I offered to pray with them instead. Deep thoughts, I know, and it all came from a "cheesey" little line.
MST3K
Very enjoyable. As a pre-teen and later as a teen, I had very bad insomnia. Up all night insomnia. Which, let me just tell you, is really stressful. And to keep myself calm I'd stop looking at the clock and pick up a Christian romance novel (obviously the only kind of romance novel allowed in the Clark home). Reading Love On Assignment and Love On A Dime really reminded me of those nights. And I ended up reading both books in two days - and staying up way into the night to do so! While it's not a book I recommend to my readers who are into literary fiction or the classics or more hearty fare, it's definitely one I recommend as a light diversion. And who knows, it may make you think a little bit harder about your faith? I was surprised to find myself considering some of the aspects of faith brought up by the books in a deeper light than I did as a teen.
January 17, 2011
Charlotte is the young newpaper reporter and governess in Love on Assignment by CARA LYNN JAMES. Charlotte's work for the newspaper and for a family takes place in Newport, Rhode Island. Charlotte agrees to spy on Daniel Wilmot, a Christian professor. Mr. Pfifer who owns the Rhode Island newspaper hates Professor Wilmot because he chooses to speak openly and frankly about the way workers are treated as less than citizens in the state. Professor Wilmot believes all men are God's creation. Therefore, workers do not deserve to be treated differently than those in higher positions.
Faced with the financial care of her Aunt Amelia and her sister, Becky, Charlotte decides to take the job in the Wilmot's home. At Summerhill, the name of the home, nothing goes as Charlotte expected. This leads to all sorts of troubles for Charlotte Hale. Her only help comes from a growing faith in the help of the LORD.
I enjoyed this novel because of the setting. I could feel the soft breezes of the wind in Newport. Cara Lynn James made Summerhill seem so real. I felt as though the rooms were ones walked through by me at a different time. Although Mrs. Wilmot, Professor Daniel's mother, is not a lady with the best character, I liked her relationship with Mr. McClintock. Mr. McClintock is courting Mrs. Wilmot. I also liked Missy LeBeau. She caused negative excitement in the lives of the Wilmots and Charlotte. Still, her presence served to spice up the novel.
There is so much to enjoy in this Christian novel: what is written in Sarah's journal, Professor Wilmot's first wife, the children, Ruthie and Tim, and what it feels like to betray someone who is really a good person. Can a person ever forgive themselves after the deed is done? Can the person betrayed forgive the person who tried to destroy their character? There is so much to glean from this novel. I hate to leave Summerhill. If I ever get the chance, I will definitely visit Rhode Island.
Faced with the financial care of her Aunt Amelia and her sister, Becky, Charlotte decides to take the job in the Wilmot's home. At Summerhill, the name of the home, nothing goes as Charlotte expected. This leads to all sorts of troubles for Charlotte Hale. Her only help comes from a growing faith in the help of the LORD.
I enjoyed this novel because of the setting. I could feel the soft breezes of the wind in Newport. Cara Lynn James made Summerhill seem so real. I felt as though the rooms were ones walked through by me at a different time. Although Mrs. Wilmot, Professor Daniel's mother, is not a lady with the best character, I liked her relationship with Mr. McClintock. Mr. McClintock is courting Mrs. Wilmot. I also liked Missy LeBeau. She caused negative excitement in the lives of the Wilmots and Charlotte. Still, her presence served to spice up the novel.
There is so much to enjoy in this Christian novel: what is written in Sarah's journal, Professor Wilmot's first wife, the children, Ruthie and Tim, and what it feels like to betray someone who is really a good person. Can a person ever forgive themselves after the deed is done? Can the person betrayed forgive the person who tried to destroy their character? There is so much to glean from this novel. I hate to leave Summerhill. If I ever get the chance, I will definitely visit Rhode Island.
February 11, 2011
This is the second book in the series and only the second book I've read by this author, but I know it won't be my last. I think I liked the first one a little bit more but they are both great stories and I can't wait to read the third in this series.
Charlotte is working as a secretary but wants to be a journalist. She supports her family and they can't earn enough for medical expenses or the damage to the roof. She feels enormous pressure to provide for them. So when her boss gives her the opportunity to go undercover as a chance to prove her worth as a journalist, more than just her ambition is on the line. I loved that she was a career woman with intelligence but also cared so much for family and had a strong sense of right and wrong.
The deeper she gets involved, the less comfortable she feels. Her boss seems willing to destroy Daniel by any means - even dishonest - and Daniel seems innocent of all the things she's supposed to find evidence of. If she doesn't comply she's afraid of losing her job. If she does...
Daniel asked Charlotte if she was a Christian and she told him she was but lots of little things are adding up to say she might not be. He promised himself not to get involved with anyone after what happened with his first wife but there is just something about Charlotte that draws him... He's the kind of strong, righteous, hero who is willing to stand up for what he believes in no matter what. He's also truly willing to believe the best in people. If anything, he's almost too perfect.
I thought perhaps a bit more time could have been spent in Daniel's perspective to answer some questions and give some more depth. There were some loose ends that never seemed explained - like what was so special about the things in the attic. There was a touching secondary romance for his mother as well.
Charlotte is working as a secretary but wants to be a journalist. She supports her family and they can't earn enough for medical expenses or the damage to the roof. She feels enormous pressure to provide for them. So when her boss gives her the opportunity to go undercover as a chance to prove her worth as a journalist, more than just her ambition is on the line. I loved that she was a career woman with intelligence but also cared so much for family and had a strong sense of right and wrong.
The deeper she gets involved, the less comfortable she feels. Her boss seems willing to destroy Daniel by any means - even dishonest - and Daniel seems innocent of all the things she's supposed to find evidence of. If she doesn't comply she's afraid of losing her job. If she does...
Daniel asked Charlotte if she was a Christian and she told him she was but lots of little things are adding up to say she might not be. He promised himself not to get involved with anyone after what happened with his first wife but there is just something about Charlotte that draws him... He's the kind of strong, righteous, hero who is willing to stand up for what he believes in no matter what. He's also truly willing to believe the best in people. If anything, he's almost too perfect.
I thought perhaps a bit more time could have been spent in Daniel's perspective to answer some questions and give some more depth. There were some loose ends that never seemed explained - like what was so special about the things in the attic. There was a touching secondary romance for his mother as well.
January 9, 2011
During the summer of 1900 Charlotte Hale, a native Newporter and secretary for the Rhode Island Reporter, accepts an undercover assignment as temporary governess to Daniel Wilmont's children in order to secretly gather evidence against him. As he helps her rediscover God, Charlotte learns that Daniel is an honorable man.
They unexpectedly fall in love despite their different backgrounds and social positions. Charlotte soon realizes she must defend Daniel against the forces set against him-a willful student with a romantic crush and the newspaper editor determined to destroy his reputation.
My Take: This is a sweet book with Christian overtones. Actually, it is more than overtones. When Charlotte is being interviewed by Daniel, he asks her outright, "Are you a Christian?" Dear, sweet Daniel is a pious and rather stupid man. In today's world Daniel would be looking at a lawsuit. Of course, Charlotte would be looking for an attorney for her part which I can't tell you because then I'd ruin the story.
Although somewhat predictable, the book is different in that the author provides time and space for redemption. When the hearts are changed, the orchestra does not automatically strike up a tune and lovers fall into each others arms declaring their undying love. In fact, Daniel's marriage problems add a good deal of depth to Daniel and I began to appreciate his forgiving heart and recognize that forgiving and forgetting are not the same thing.
The protagonist is interesting and grows a spine, providing the reader with a conflict that is directly opposed to Charlotte's role as breadwinner for her arthritic aunt and disabled sister. I found that I liked Charlotte and could relate to her in many ways.
Writing is solid. Story is engaging. Language and dialogue is clean and the book earns a place on the family bookshelf.
They unexpectedly fall in love despite their different backgrounds and social positions. Charlotte soon realizes she must defend Daniel against the forces set against him-a willful student with a romantic crush and the newspaper editor determined to destroy his reputation.
My Take: This is a sweet book with Christian overtones. Actually, it is more than overtones. When Charlotte is being interviewed by Daniel, he asks her outright, "Are you a Christian?" Dear, sweet Daniel is a pious and rather stupid man. In today's world Daniel would be looking at a lawsuit. Of course, Charlotte would be looking for an attorney for her part which I can't tell you because then I'd ruin the story.
Although somewhat predictable, the book is different in that the author provides time and space for redemption. When the hearts are changed, the orchestra does not automatically strike up a tune and lovers fall into each others arms declaring their undying love. In fact, Daniel's marriage problems add a good deal of depth to Daniel and I began to appreciate his forgiving heart and recognize that forgiving and forgetting are not the same thing.
The protagonist is interesting and grows a spine, providing the reader with a conflict that is directly opposed to Charlotte's role as breadwinner for her arthritic aunt and disabled sister. I found that I liked Charlotte and could relate to her in many ways.
Writing is solid. Story is engaging. Language and dialogue is clean and the book earns a place on the family bookshelf.
April 5, 2011
Wow! What a great historical by Cara Lynn James!
This book was worth every day of every year she put into it! Thank you, Cara Lynn, for the gift of Charlotte and Daniel's story.
I loved both hero and heroine. Cara portrayed them and the era so well. The conflict was so realistic. I love how she presented Charlotte's growth as a Christian. I love Daniel's vulnerability and faith. (If only we were all more like him in our Christian walk. While it opens us up to many vulnerabilities, God truly is our rock and defender. Daniel brings remembrances to my heart and mind of years gone by in my own life.) The story also made me think of what Jesus said...while we are to be cunning as serpents, we are to be gentle as doves. As a couple, Charlotte and Daniel bring these two characteristics together in perfect unity, balancing each other as a couple should.
It's refreshing to see couples who aren't constantly at each other's throats only to wind up together at the very the end. I enjoyed watching their relationship bud, blossom and grow - even with Charlotte's angst throughout. I like that, though she was an interloper, she was her genuine self during the day to day things of life. It was those things that won Daniel's heart to begin with and I'm glad Charlotte could be herself to a great extent...that she wasn't so wrapped up in guilt and angst throughout the story that she was constantly on edge. I also like that while Daniel was affected by the failures of his first wife and marriage, he allowed it to grow him in his Christian walk rather than embitter him. And that's truly what made him the wonderful man he was and allowed him to see Charlotte for the gift she was. Beautiful!
Did I say I LOVED it? :D
Bravo, Cara Lynn! If I could give you six stars, I would! :D Congratulations on a job well done!
This book was worth every day of every year she put into it! Thank you, Cara Lynn, for the gift of Charlotte and Daniel's story.
I loved both hero and heroine. Cara portrayed them and the era so well. The conflict was so realistic. I love how she presented Charlotte's growth as a Christian. I love Daniel's vulnerability and faith. (If only we were all more like him in our Christian walk. While it opens us up to many vulnerabilities, God truly is our rock and defender. Daniel brings remembrances to my heart and mind of years gone by in my own life.) The story also made me think of what Jesus said...while we are to be cunning as serpents, we are to be gentle as doves. As a couple, Charlotte and Daniel bring these two characteristics together in perfect unity, balancing each other as a couple should.
It's refreshing to see couples who aren't constantly at each other's throats only to wind up together at the very the end. I enjoyed watching their relationship bud, blossom and grow - even with Charlotte's angst throughout. I like that, though she was an interloper, she was her genuine self during the day to day things of life. It was those things that won Daniel's heart to begin with and I'm glad Charlotte could be herself to a great extent...that she wasn't so wrapped up in guilt and angst throughout the story that she was constantly on edge. I also like that while Daniel was affected by the failures of his first wife and marriage, he allowed it to grow him in his Christian walk rather than embitter him. And that's truly what made him the wonderful man he was and allowed him to see Charlotte for the gift she was. Beautiful!
Did I say I LOVED it? :D
Bravo, Cara Lynn! If I could give you six stars, I would! :D Congratulations on a job well done!
January 31, 2011
After reading the first book in the Ladies of Summerhill series by Cara Lynn James I was anxious to read "Love On Assignment", to see how well the author could continue her series, and I would say she pulled off another great historical christian read!
It's the summer of 1900, and Charlotte Hale has spent the last three years working as a secretary for the Rhode Island Reporter. She had always wanted to be a journalist, so when her boss presents her with the opportunity she jumps at the chance. Once she hears what the assignment is she is bothered a bit about what she is asked to do, but decides to do it anyway.
The assignment is to search for evidence against Daniel Wilmont, someone her boss considers a religious fanatic. Daniel is a Bible professor and writes a column for the competition, Newport Gazette. Her boss wants Daniel to stop writing his columns, will Charlotte find something she can use against him, and once she gets to know him will she want to?
The authors writing draws you into the story of Charlotte and Daniel, making you feel as if your right there with them. I became engrossed by the story, and while I kind of figured how it would turn out, I never felt bored reading it. While this is christian fiction, it never comes off as preachy, the message of forgiveness is there,although it isn't so overwhelming that you are put off by it.
This is the second in a series this book can easily be read as a stand alone work, although I would recommend picking up the first book, especially if your a fan of Historical Christian romance. I for one can't wait to read the next book in the series "Love By The Book" available July 2011.
rating 4/5
It's the summer of 1900, and Charlotte Hale has spent the last three years working as a secretary for the Rhode Island Reporter. She had always wanted to be a journalist, so when her boss presents her with the opportunity she jumps at the chance. Once she hears what the assignment is she is bothered a bit about what she is asked to do, but decides to do it anyway.
The assignment is to search for evidence against Daniel Wilmont, someone her boss considers a religious fanatic. Daniel is a Bible professor and writes a column for the competition, Newport Gazette. Her boss wants Daniel to stop writing his columns, will Charlotte find something she can use against him, and once she gets to know him will she want to?
The authors writing draws you into the story of Charlotte and Daniel, making you feel as if your right there with them. I became engrossed by the story, and while I kind of figured how it would turn out, I never felt bored reading it. While this is christian fiction, it never comes off as preachy, the message of forgiveness is there,although it isn't so overwhelming that you are put off by it.
This is the second in a series this book can easily be read as a stand alone work, although I would recommend picking up the first book, especially if your a fan of Historical Christian romance. I for one can't wait to read the next book in the series "Love By The Book" available July 2011.
rating 4/5
January 29, 2011
From the book synopsis:
"Newport, Rhode Island, in 1900--a glamorous resort town where the rich and famous go to see and be seen.
Charlotte Hale isn't part of that world. She's a working girl, a secretary for a local newspaper, who dreams of becoming a real reporter. When her boss offers her an assignment, she jumps at the opportunity. She'll go undercover as a governess to investigate a scandal about her new employer, Daniel Wilmont, a young widowed professor of religion who writes a controversial column ton a rival newspaper.
Charlotte's qualms about misrepresenting herself to Daniel soon morph into a deeper quandary. How can she get the goods on a man who turns out to be so honorable? How can she plot the downfall of a family that has inspired her to rediscover her faith? And how can she protect the man she now loves from a scheme she's been part of since the beginning?
I actually enjoyed this book more than the first book in the series. Charlotte is stuck between a rock and a hard place. She is the sole breadwinner of her family made up of the aunt that took her and her sister in after her parents passed away and her disabled sister. Of course she jumped at the chance to try to make a better life for her family!
The attractions that occurs between Charlotte and Daniel is done in a very sweet way.
A nice touch in the book is having Lily and Jackson, who appear in the first book in the series, be secondary characters in this book.
All in all, a nicely done historical romance.
"Newport, Rhode Island, in 1900--a glamorous resort town where the rich and famous go to see and be seen.
Charlotte Hale isn't part of that world. She's a working girl, a secretary for a local newspaper, who dreams of becoming a real reporter. When her boss offers her an assignment, she jumps at the opportunity. She'll go undercover as a governess to investigate a scandal about her new employer, Daniel Wilmont, a young widowed professor of religion who writes a controversial column ton a rival newspaper.
Charlotte's qualms about misrepresenting herself to Daniel soon morph into a deeper quandary. How can she get the goods on a man who turns out to be so honorable? How can she plot the downfall of a family that has inspired her to rediscover her faith? And how can she protect the man she now loves from a scheme she's been part of since the beginning?
I actually enjoyed this book more than the first book in the series. Charlotte is stuck between a rock and a hard place. She is the sole breadwinner of her family made up of the aunt that took her and her sister in after her parents passed away and her disabled sister. Of course she jumped at the chance to try to make a better life for her family!
The attractions that occurs between Charlotte and Daniel is done in a very sweet way.
A nice touch in the book is having Lily and Jackson, who appear in the first book in the series, be secondary characters in this book.
All in all, a nicely done historical romance.
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