Façade

by Pepper Basham

A reclusive academic
who would do anything to save her brother.

A reluctant spy
willing to risk his life to save the woman who broke his heart.

Olivia Rakes has the unique gift of observation, which suits her well since she prefers her books over the general populace, but when her brother goes MIA over France, Livy’s unique skills and her determination to save her brother force her into a world of espionage, deceit, danger…and the most frightening of all–romance.

Agent Christopher Dawson has never forgotten his childhood friend, and first love, Livy Rakes, but since she broke his heart, he’s avoided seeing her for years…until the search for his best friend brings them both together in the most unlikely of ways.

In a world where war changes the rules of life and love, can Christopher and Livy work together work together to unveil the mascarade before the enemy catches them?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Christian Fiction, Novella, Fiction, World War II, Christian

136 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2018

About the author

Pepper D Basham has been telling tales ever since she was a little girl. When her grandmother called her a “writer” at the age of ten, Pepper took it as gospel and has enjoyed various types of writing styles ever since. A native of the Blue Ridge Mountains, mom of five, speech-language pathologist, and lover of chocolate, Pepper enjoys sprinkling her native Appalachian culture into her fiction wherever she can. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of the New River Valley in Virginia.

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an intriguing and absorbing WW2 spy novella. I loved the characters and the tension, but I wasn't too crazy about the bordello-type stuff and the related innuendo. Cute story for older readers.

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pepper Basham takes on an intriguing take of espionage in this novella set in World War II. I don't believe the average person has any idea what went on in this war behind the scenes that saved countless lives. Admirable job in this one from an author I have come to love!


I received a complimentary copy of this book which in no way influenced my review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fast-paced espionage novella is a delightful read, filled with a great combination of danger and romance. This is my first historical read by Pepper Bashum. Even though this story of undercover spies in German occupied France could be serious at times, it was still filled with the witty banter and romance Bashum readers have come to expect in her contemporary novels.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...)]

What a rollercoaster ride this story took me on in the middle of WWII France with two spies who have a second chance romance, once they untangled the miscommunications that ended their friendship. My eyes were opened to the sacrifices of the citizens during the turbulent and uncertain times of war, and made me even more thankful for those that risk and give their lives for the cause of freedom.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

[Courtney Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always, I LOVED it! Pepper can write ANY sub-genre of Christian fiction and wonderfully pair it with romance!

Facade is a fast-paced novella with a sweet romance and tense WWII intrigue plot. The friendship-turned-romance allows for depth and plenty of banter, the development of which is perfectly timed for tension with the spy happenings. It's a must-read for historical romance lovers. Longer review to come.

[Beth | Faithfully Bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightfully quirky, completely intriguing, and sweetly romantic! (full review coming soon)

I read an advance reader copy of this story. No review was required. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Her eyes had always been his downfall - the mirror into the soul she fisted behind books and isolation."

Christopher Dawson doesn't know whether or not his heart can survive another encounter with "Livy" Rakes; she broke his heart three years ago with her quickly announced engagement to another man, and like a romantic coward, Christopher fled to join the ranks of "operative" in Britain's elite Special Operations unit; plainly put, he became a spy. Now their country needs Olivia's unique set of observational skills; she has already been trained, but abruptly returned to a civilian career, experiencing what she considered to be a failed mission after her partner was killed.

Olivia Rakes "despised dancing. . . . . What else did she need? . . a pen, pencil, notepad and an Agatha Christie novel . . . . " until the father of her childhood friend persuades her to join him on the dance floor. It's rather obvious Captain Arthur Dawson is after more than social pleasantries, for her eyes soon meet those of a man across the room who still has the magnetism to pull her into a closet for a terse, long overdue conversation.

As you might imagine, "Facade" brings a unique blend of romantic tension strung tightly between the tenderest of hearts; and like an accomplished harpist, Pepper Basham plays every note perfectly, in this heart felt, high stakes game of "facade".

I received a copy of this novella from the author. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

[Inspirationalfictionreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pepper Basham has just moved right to the top of my list of favorite authors. Her books are just that good. She writes some of the best characters. Characters that are sure to stick with you for a long time. Likeable characters. Memorable characters. Just plain awesome characters.
She also writes the best novellas. They never feel too rushed, too short, or incomplete. Her pacing is perfect.

Facade is such an interesting story. It is full of intrigue and spying and it has one of my favorite story lines- friends first! I loved how Livy and Christopher worked together as spies to try and save her brother. I loved their banter. The romance was perfectly paced and totally believable.

I loved Livy’s unique character. She has a gift of observing minute details. Details that most of us would miss and then, she is able to put those observances all together to see things and come to conclusions that most of us would not - umm....except when it comes to romance!

Poor heartbroken Christopher!
Livy unknowingly broke his heart and now he has to pretend they are engaged to save her brother. I loved Christopher! (Are you sensing a theme here? 😉). He was genuinely kind, caring, and perfect for Livy!

Obviously, I am highly recommending this fast paced suspenseful novella!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own.

[Susan Tuttle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was immediately pulled into this book from the very first page. I loved the intrigue that Basham added into her story, using the background of spies during the war as her setting. You could tell she'd done her research which only enriched the characters' stories. As I've come to expect, her plot moved a pace that kept me flipping pages. Between her leads' chemistry and the mission they'd embarked on, I couldn't wait to see what happened next. They were definitely two people I rooted for on many levels. She balanced romance with a hint of suspense. Created a strong female lead and paired her well with the right man for her. And snuck in a few lighthearted moments as well. All-in-all this novella was a lovely read that reminded me of why I've come to enjoy Basham's books so much.

***I received an advanced copy of this book and was in no way compensated or compelled to write a review. All opinions given are my own.***

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pepper Basham takes on World War II and the role of British spies in this one. And what a fantastic ride she takes readers on!

With the things we love about Basham’s writing (ahem, those kissing scenes, anyone?) and the addition of the intrigue and action, Façade is a story you have to read!

There are so many things I love about this story. The heroine’s abilities and intelligence are fantastic but her naiveté when it comes to matters of the heart makes her likable. The hero is strong and an excellent match for Livy. The supporting characters are all enjoyable as well.
This may be a novella, but the story pulls you in and latches on until the very last sentence.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Joy Tiff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've found that I rather enjoy WWII stories and this one was so much fun! I adored Olivia and chuckled at how straightforward and unaware she could be. It's a fabulous novella, full of adventure, romance, and spies!

[Angi G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pepper Basham is proving that she can write in multiple genres and make it look easy. Her latest book (a novella), “Façade” includes action, intrigue, and romance that is dropped into a WWll setting in German-occupied France.
When her brother goes missing overseas, Olivia Rakes reluctantly finds herself working with Christopher Dawson, a man from her past. Through danger and espionage, Livy and Christopher must come to terms with each other, ultimately putting their lives as well as their hearts at risk.
Strong characters help to build a strong storyline and that’s exactly what Ms. Basham has done with this story. I love Livy’s strength and Christopher’s need to protect her. Another top-notch read from Pepper Basham.

*I received a complimentary copy for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255*

[Becky Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first chapter, and even the opening line, I was completely engrossed in this story and could not put it down! It is full of intrigue, with breath-holding suspense; and I could almost actually feel the danger that was constantly lurking everywhere. The setting of WW II, the espionage with all of its tools, and the history in & behind this story make this a fascinating read! The twists caught me by surprise! Even though I had hoped for one of them, I had given up that hope it would happen. The character of Livy is extremely well-developed, being definitely strong & intriguing. I found myself cheering for her and wanting her to succeed. A truly fascinating & fun character! Even the book cover is amazing! This is a well-written story that has only whetted my appetite to hear more!

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read a couple of Pepper Basham's contemporary novels and loved them, so I was excited for her new novella set during my favorite time period of World War II. Facade did not disappoint. It was so good and once I reached the middle I could not put it down.

There was danger, intrigue, suspense, and such a great romance. I found all the spy stuff super interesting and one of my favorite aspects of the story.

Livy and Christopher were wonderful characters. Livy's super relatable and easy to like. And Christopher is just a genuinely good guy, so brave and caring.

Facade's a quick, fast-paced read that I enjoyed very much!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascade is a great historical novella by Pepper Basham. She has the talent of writing stories from various genres and this time she tackles the World War II era. I enjoyed the suspense, action, adventure, and, of course, the romance.

Fascade is most definitely a story not to be missed. I give it 4 1/2 stars.

I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review.

[PAMpublish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed the author's style of flowing descriptive analogies in this spy-romance thriller of WWII. Coupled with an ex-love whose mission is to free the main character's Livy's pilot brother from Nazi detainment in France, maintains one's interests throughout. Although not quite realistic in parts and could have been another ten chapters longer, the main spy character's past relationship together delves into their dedication to one another during extreme times of danger and heightens the emotion surrounding it all. Recommended for those who enjoy a well-written intriguing WWII spy story.

[Rebecca Trump · Rating 4 out of 5]

Facade by Pepper Basham was thrilling, adventurous and full of kisses. If you enjoy WWII era stories, with spy-craft and espionage, this book is for you, with the distinctive writings that only come from Pepper’s imagination ;)

[Rachel McMillan · Rating 4 out of 5]

review to come

[Trisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review coming soon ❤️

[Toni Shiloh · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and all it's goodness.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always, Basham exceeded my expectations with an exciting and romantic story set during WWII in German-occupied France. Livy and Christopher have a history together which creates delicious tension and dazzling moments between them. ;-)

Fans of this genre will undoubtedly enjoy Façade. It is a fast-paced, hard-to-put-down novella. I received a complimentary copy from the author but was not required to write a review. I pre-ordered the book, as well.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was different from the others I have been reading by this author, but no less good than the others. The plot involves spies during World War 2, and the attempt to rescue American airmen captured by the Germans. It was also a shorter book than the others I have read. For being so short, there was still a lot of story and plot, and also suspense. As always, I enjoyed the writing of this author I recently discovered.

[Rebekah Millet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Espionage, romance, suspense. What a page-turner this novella was! I was immediately swept up in Pepper Basham’s historical novella set against WWII. Everything Pepper’s written I’ve adored, and this is no different. Can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.

[Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took me a minute to get into the story, but once I did I absolutely loved it! 🥰 Basham does such an amazing job at writing characters that I am automatically interested in what happens to them and how they are going to connect. This book was fabulous!

[Nadine Keels · Rating 3 out of 5]

Olivia thrives on academics and hides away with books. But when her brother goes missing in German-occupied France, Olivia agrees to become a search-and-rescue spy. For the mission, she'll just happen to be partners with Christopher, a former friend who walked out of her life in Façade by author Pepper D. Basham.

No, I didn't read the book blurb before trying this ChristFic wartime romance. The book cover was enough to get this historical fiction lover to try Basham's work for the first time.

One of the major aspects this story has going for it is the backstory, including the hero and heroine's history. No, the book doesn't take forever going over every particular of the past (not a bad thing), but there's enough to give the plot a good foundation.

Now, some of the reflections and character actions/reactions are repetitive, and overall, I preferred the espionage action over the romantic side. While I certainly don't mind some steam in a sweet romance, some of the physical descriptions felt overdone, perhaps especially because strategic physical seduction also plays such a prominent role in the story, for non-romantic reasons. Even so, the novella length works in the main characters' favor, as they don't really have time to wallow in their misunderstanding phase.

A worthwhile way to spend a couple or few hours of reading time.

[Winnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always enjoy picking up a Pepper Basham book, because I know I’m in for a treat. Whether it be historical fiction or contemporary, she knows how to draw me in and keep me reading. Of course, it helps that there’s always some romance thrown in. Well, make that a LOT of romance thrown in.

With a setting in England and France during World War II, a quirky heroine and dashing hero, and a spying mission to perform, this book is entertaining and captivating. The characters are vividly drawn and endearing, and there’s plenty of intrigue, suspense, and heart-stopping adventure. Although this is a novella, it’s well-developed and fleshed out, and feels like a longer book. I would recommend this to those who enjoy clean historical reads.

This book was included in a purchased collection called Timeless Love: Romantic Stories That Span the Ages, but the stories have also been published separately.

[Andi Tubbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a quirky fun novella. As with all of Ms. Basham's books to date she creates great dialogue, interesting characters with a sweet romance. This intriguing novella is set during WWII with a spy espionage plot. It moves along at a nice pace, not too fast or slow. There were some surprises that had me holding my breath wondering how Livy was going to get herself out of situations.

This is a novella that is apart of the Timeless Love Collection. Look for my upcoming review of all the books in the collection.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Award winning author Pepper Basham’s historical fiction novella Facade tells the story of British spy Livy Rakes and her search to find her missing brother who was captured by the Germans in France during World War II. Basham takes us back to the 1940s and tells the story of Livy and fellow spy and childhood friend Christopher Dawson as they use their espionage skills and enter a world of danger in order to complete their mission and an opportunity for romance and finding true love. This is such a wonderfully well-written story, and Basham did an incredible job developing the characters and giving the readers a sense of the dangers that people faced during wartime. A swoon worthy handsome hero, a beautiful intelligent heroine who can hold her own with the best, and a wartime romance with danger and suspense...What more could you want??!! It was a surprising and very rewarding conclusion for the readers. Pepper Basham does not disappoint! 5 stars!!!!

[Ruth Jessen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What lies beneath...

A fantastic telling of WWII espionage. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll cheer! What is better than unrequited love, mystery, justice, and espionage? Well written characters and the scenes are so well written you'll be in the book with the characters.

[Coco.V]

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