A Summer on Bellevue Avenue (Romance at the Gilded Age Resorts Book 5) in Clearly Christian Readathon

Nov 22, 2023 DevotedToHope rated it it was amazing

Shelves: completed, novdec23

I had the pleasure of reading A Summer on Bellevue Avenue by Lorri Dudley, and I must say it was an absolutely delightful experience. From the surprising start to the fantastic page-turning narrative to the superb conclusion, this story was nothing short of fabulous!

A Summer on Bellevue Avenue is a spiritually uplifting, suspenseful, and heartfelt page-turner. Lorri Dudley's storytelling talent shines through in this installment of the Romance at the Gilded Age Resorts series. I highly recommend I had the pleasure of reading A Summer on Bellevue Avenue by Lorri Dudley, and I must say it was an absolutely delightful experience. From the surprising start to the fantastic page-turning narrative to the superb conclusion, this story was nothing short of fabulous!

A Summer on Bellevue Avenue is a spiritually uplifting, suspenseful, and heartfelt page-turner. Lorri Dudley's storytelling talent shines through in this installment of the Romance at the Gilded Age Resorts series. I highly recommend this delightful read to anyone who enjoys clean historical romance with a touch of mystery and intrigue.

The author skillfully weaves a captivating tale set in Newport, Rhode Island, during the Gilded Age in 1895. The opening scene immediately grabbed my attention, setting the stage for a plot filled with action, suspicion, faith, and romance. What impressed me the most was the depth of the characters, particularly the main protagonists, Amanda and Wesley.

Amanda, a perceptive beauty with a painful past, stays away from social settings and idle chit-chat due to her mother's unfortunate fate. On the other hand, Wesley Jansen, owner of Jansen and Sons Oil and Engineering, is bold, conversant, and hardworking. Their relationship takes a compelling turn when Wesley is accused of a crime, and Amanda finds herself entangled in the scandal.

The story unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, keeping me on the edge of my seat. I appreciated the well-crafted suspense that added an extra layer to the romance between Amanda and Wesley. The author cleverly explores themes of gossip, jealousy, and societal expectations, making the storyline both enjoyable and thought-provoking.

One aspect that stood out for me was the character development and the inspiring messages woven into the dialogue. Amanda's response to a cutting remark and her subsequent prayer for forgiveness and courage were moments that resonated deeply with me. The profound quotes, such as "You shine because of who God made you to be," and “Darling, there is good to be found everywhere. God has prepared you for this moment. Go and bloom where you are planted, because He has tilled the soil,”
add beautiful layers of the Christian faith to A Summer on Bellevue Avenue.

The supporting cast of characters, the elite of Newport, contributed to the shenanigans, rumors, and societal pressures that enriched the story. The novel skillfully explores the dynamics of old money, new money, and no money, highlighting the effects on individuals and their reputations.

Bravo, Lorri! As a reader, I loved being immersed in a world where friendship, faith, and the Gilded Age intertwine seamlessly. I am now a true fan planning to read every book you have written.

I received a digital version for The Summer on Bellevue Avenue from the author and the Celebrate Lit Tour Team. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on this story’s beautifully impactful and memorable content, ensuring transparency and reliability! ...more

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Nov 20, 2023 Betsy rated it it was amazing

This was another engrossing addition to the Romance at the Gilded Age Resorts series, taking place in Newport, Rhode Island in 1895. The opening scene was an attention-grabber and the plot itself was full of action and suspicion, making for a very page-turning read. Although a novella in length, the romance did not feel rushed as the main characters had known each other already. Amid the perpetual upper class contests to outdo one another was a beautiful and inspiring message of God’s love for a ...more

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Jan 14, 2024 Kimberly Keagan rated it it was amazing

Author Lorri Dudley does a beautiful job creating the world of 1895 New York and Newport while adding faith and mystery—all packaged in a novella-sized book.

What I loved:
* The era…New York in the 1890s is a favorite of mine.
* The sweet romance between two main characters who rely on their faith in times of trouble.
* Wesley’s secret (I don’t want to give the story away, but the secret adds a layer of vulnerability to the hero)
* It’s a quick read that doesn’t feel rushed.

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Feb 06, 2024 Wendy Andrus rated it really liked it

Shelves: celebratelit

All of my grandparents were born during The Gilded Age, so I find this time period interesting.

This story grabbed my attention from the beginning, and held it throughout. It's well written and descriptive.

If you're a history buff, especially of Gilded Age New England, with a little mystery and romance thrown in, you will want to add this to your "want to read" list. ...more

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