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Daughters of Fortune #2
Baroness
Coming of age in the turbulent Roaring Twenties, two daughters of fortune can have everything they possibly want--except freedom. Expected to marry well and take the reins of the family empire, Lilly and Rosie have their entire lives planned out for them. But Lilly longs to flee the confines of New York City for the untamed wilds of Montana. Her cousin Rosie dreams of the bright lights of the newly emerging silver screen. Following their dreams--to avant-garde France, to dazzling Broadway, to the skies of the fearless wing walkers--will demand all their courage.
When forced to decide, will Lilly and Rosie truly be able to abandon lives of ease and luxury for the love and adventure that beckons? At what cost will each daughter of fortune find her true love and happy ending?
When forced to decide, will Lilly and Rosie truly be able to abandon lives of ease and luxury for the love and adventure that beckons? At what cost will each daughter of fortune find her true love and happy ending?
361 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
43 people are currently reading
1060 people want to read
About the author
Susan May Warren
217 books3,643 followersI can't help be amazed at the gifts God has delighted me with - a wonderful husband, four amazing children, and the opportunity to write for Him.
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.
Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.
Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.
Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.
Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.
I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.
I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.
God Bless and Happy Reading!
In His Grip,
Susan May Warren
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
May 4, 2012
I adored Heiress, and as a result it made my top fiction list for 2011. But I absolutely loved Baroness, so you know it will make my 2012 top fiction list. In my opinion, this story was fantastic because it was so insightful regarding the human heart. The themes were deep, and the characters were so three dimensional, that I couldn't help getting choked up a few times. I cared about the characters and the hard lessons they learned. Who doesn't want to believe that real love can change a person for the good? We're all attracted to danger at some point, and I loved how the author showed why these young women felt unfulfilled and rebellious. It was because of unmet needs in childhood, which wasn't something that they could be protected from no matter how much their parents loved them. Life hurts, and wounded people run from emotional pain. That was brilliantly shown in this book.
The themes in this novel of both physical and spiritual adoption was beautiful, and the lesson about love and commitment going hand in hand was touching as well. There is no worse feeling than deep regret, and when I read stories with this theme, emotion tugs at my heartstrings every time. Forgiving one's self is one of the hardest lessons to learn. So is tasting real love, suffering as the result of poor choices, having the past rear up to bite you when you least expect it, and ultimately watching it destroy innocent people in the end. But when a person sacrifices their own life for someone else's because of a deep, abiding love for them, it always moves me to tears.
There was something very Christ-like about Guthrie that I couldn't help being moved by, and I believe there a little bit of Rosie in all of us; yet because of His deep and unrelenting love, Christ died for us anyway. I loved how this story illuminates universal truths about people, and I appreciated how the author wove a thread of faith through the entire story, and did it so seamlessly. It really pulled everything together. Not to mention that every detail in this story made me feel like I was living in the Roaring 20s... from the clothing, the clubs, and the culture, to the way people interacted with each other. Did I mention the pulse-pounding kisses? Prepare to get breathless a few times and forget that you're reading fiction. I love stories that make me feel like I'm somewhere else.
Real life doesn't always have a happy ending, and the conclusion of this story was bittersweet, but that was what made the last few chapters so emotional for me. Healing takes time. The pacing of this story felt like real life. God is with us even when we don't see Him or feel His presence. I love that Rosie is still learning how to deal with her deep scars from childhood, and how you can see that God is pursuing her despite her determination to run from the pain. It gives me chills just thinking about the potential the author has for this character to learn some important lessons in the future. Bottom line, I love historical fiction, and truth be told, Susan May Warren is a master at crafting it. I can't wait for the next book.
The themes in this novel of both physical and spiritual adoption was beautiful, and the lesson about love and commitment going hand in hand was touching as well. There is no worse feeling than deep regret, and when I read stories with this theme, emotion tugs at my heartstrings every time. Forgiving one's self is one of the hardest lessons to learn. So is tasting real love, suffering as the result of poor choices, having the past rear up to bite you when you least expect it, and ultimately watching it destroy innocent people in the end. But when a person sacrifices their own life for someone else's because of a deep, abiding love for them, it always moves me to tears.
There was something very Christ-like about Guthrie that I couldn't help being moved by, and I believe there a little bit of Rosie in all of us; yet because of His deep and unrelenting love, Christ died for us anyway. I loved how this story illuminates universal truths about people, and I appreciated how the author wove a thread of faith through the entire story, and did it so seamlessly. It really pulled everything together. Not to mention that every detail in this story made me feel like I was living in the Roaring 20s... from the clothing, the clubs, and the culture, to the way people interacted with each other. Did I mention the pulse-pounding kisses? Prepare to get breathless a few times and forget that you're reading fiction. I love stories that make me feel like I'm somewhere else.
Real life doesn't always have a happy ending, and the conclusion of this story was bittersweet, but that was what made the last few chapters so emotional for me. Healing takes time. The pacing of this story felt like real life. God is with us even when we don't see Him or feel His presence. I love that Rosie is still learning how to deal with her deep scars from childhood, and how you can see that God is pursuing her despite her determination to run from the pain. It gives me chills just thinking about the potential the author has for this character to learn some important lessons in the future. Bottom line, I love historical fiction, and truth be told, Susan May Warren is a master at crafting it. I can't wait for the next book.
February 19, 2024
Just as exasperating as book one – and even more rambly.
I decided to read the sequel to Heiress against my better judgement because I owned it and wanted to see what it was like. It wasn’t an improvement upon book 1, unfortunately. Just as much drama and inappropriate content and unlikable characters. Besides, it just felt pointless and was definitely not good for the soul!
Content: I can’t remember what all exactly, but lots of sexual innuendos/mentions of sex, lots of immoral characters doing immoral things, lots of almost-sex and considering doing immoral things, etc. Basically, not recommended.
I decided to read the sequel to Heiress against my better judgement because I owned it and wanted to see what it was like. It wasn’t an improvement upon book 1, unfortunately. Just as much drama and inappropriate content and unlikable characters. Besides, it just felt pointless and was definitely not good for the soul!
Content: I can’t remember what all exactly, but lots of sexual innuendos/mentions of sex, lots of immoral characters doing immoral things, lots of almost-sex and considering doing immoral things, etc. Basically, not recommended.
May 2, 2012
If you love sagas that feature multi-generations of plucky, conflicted heroines and provide sweeping portraits of bygone eras, Susan May Warren's Daughters of Fortune series will give you that same feeling.
For me, these books brought to mind Showboat, Giant, Forsyte Saga, Zoya, A Woman of Substance, even Downton Abbey, and all the richly-costumed, lose-yourself-in-the-story dramas from the golden age of TV mini-series.
The story begins in Heiress and continues with the next generation in Baroness. Set in the Roaring 20s, Baroness focuses on Rosie and Lilly, a pair of high society cousins whose family fortunes provide lives of ease. But the two girls want more. They set out searching for what makes life meaningful and end up in all the wrong places. We follows the girls' adventures and misadventures from Paris to New York City to Chicago and the wilds of Montana as they pursue exotic careers.
Lilly becomes a wing walker on an airplane, and Rosie chases the dream of being a star on the silver screen. They rub shoulders with adventurers, baseball stars, pilots, and mobsters. Meanwhile, their families wait in the wings and hope for them to come to their senses. But the girls, for the most part, make disastrous decisions--until finally God gets through to one of them and we enjoy a half happy/half cliffhanger ending. Now I can't wait for book three!
Baroness is an eventful page-turner that will satisfy your dramatic cravings for quite some time! Thanks to Litfuse for sending me a copy to review.
The story begins in Heiress and continues with the next generation in Baroness. Set in the Roaring 20s, Baroness focuses on Rosie and Lilly, a pair of high society cousins whose family fortunes provide lives of ease. But the two girls want more. They set out searching for what makes life meaningful and end up in all the wrong places. We follows the girls' adventures and misadventures from Paris to New York City to Chicago and the wilds of Montana as they pursue exotic careers.
Lilly becomes a wing walker on an airplane, and Rosie chases the dream of being a star on the silver screen. They rub shoulders with adventurers, baseball stars, pilots, and mobsters. Meanwhile, their families wait in the wings and hope for them to come to their senses. But the girls, for the most part, make disastrous decisions--until finally God gets through to one of them and we enjoy a half happy/half cliffhanger ending. Now I can't wait for book three!
Baroness is an eventful page-turner that will satisfy your dramatic cravings for quite some time! Thanks to Litfuse for sending me a copy to review.
May 4, 2012
I will admit that when I began this book, I did not really think I would like it. It was historical fiction, but the 1920's did not really interest me. At least, the characters in this book did not interest me. Why would I want to read about flappers in Paris who seemed to care so little for God that they got themselves into all sorts of trouble?
I was wrong. About one third of the way into the book, I had a change of heart. I was interested in Rosie and Lilly, and it was neat to see the stories go back and forth between these two young women. They both did things that amazed me, and they had big-time hardships. And it was clear that this was a time period about which I needed to learn a lot more.
Susan May Warren has written a different type of Christian fiction than I have ever read before. I would call her writing style very realistic and full of raw emotion at times. I was pleased to not have the "happily ever after" ending that so many Christian romances seem to suggest in their stories. Bad things did happen. And not all the main characters even came to trust in God.
The position of God was truly unique in the concept of this book. Even in stories where the Christian message is woven into the fabric of the story, God plays a significant, front-and-center role. God essentially takes a "back seat" in this story, but His influence permeates the stories of Lilly and Rosie.
I was quite pleased when I realized how much research the author must have conducted to write about airplanes and newspapers in such great detail. She truly has a grasp of the time period, and her characters are three-dimensional. In fact, I would say they sometimes jump off the page!
My only concern is that Susan May Warren will not write a sequel. I feel like I must know what happens to the characters. The story ended with my wanting more--much more. I have grown to love the characters, and I will await anything further from the author!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated in any way, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
I was wrong. About one third of the way into the book, I had a change of heart. I was interested in Rosie and Lilly, and it was neat to see the stories go back and forth between these two young women. They both did things that amazed me, and they had big-time hardships. And it was clear that this was a time period about which I needed to learn a lot more.
Susan May Warren has written a different type of Christian fiction than I have ever read before. I would call her writing style very realistic and full of raw emotion at times. I was pleased to not have the "happily ever after" ending that so many Christian romances seem to suggest in their stories. Bad things did happen. And not all the main characters even came to trust in God.
The position of God was truly unique in the concept of this book. Even in stories where the Christian message is woven into the fabric of the story, God plays a significant, front-and-center role. God essentially takes a "back seat" in this story, but His influence permeates the stories of Lilly and Rosie.
I was quite pleased when I realized how much research the author must have conducted to write about airplanes and newspapers in such great detail. She truly has a grasp of the time period, and her characters are three-dimensional. In fact, I would say they sometimes jump off the page!
My only concern is that Susan May Warren will not write a sequel. I feel like I must know what happens to the characters. The story ended with my wanting more--much more. I have grown to love the characters, and I will await anything further from the author!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated in any way, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
January 27, 2016
It's really hard to read a book you've enjoyed and come to the end and go "really???" The plot, characterization, and emotion in this book is outstanding. I was upset that I had to stop reading so I could eat supper! Warren wrote a story that is very believable, and then I read the end...
Regardless, I still enjoyed this book and am looking forward to book 3 in the Daughters of Fortune series!
Regardless, I still enjoyed this book and am looking forward to book 3 in the Daughters of Fortune series!
May 5, 2012
Rosie and Lilly are cousins who, at the start of this novel are in Paris each longing for what they don't have; Rosie for the freedom to be a star on the stage and marry whom she would like and Lilly to go back to her ranch in Montana. Both are children of money and privilege and yet both feel constrained by the life they feel they are being forced to live. Being young ladies of seventeen or so they, of course, know everything and their parents cannot possibly understand that the times they are a'changin' and things are just not done they way they were back then.
The book moves from Paris to New York and then to the Midwest as Rosie and Lilly try to shake the family bonds they feel bind them so tightly. I did not quite understand the dynamic of the almost hatred these girls had for their families. Perhaps if I had read the first book in the series I might have had a better understanding, I don't know but it seemed to be there simply to send these two off on their adventures. Adventures that they seemed to survive quite well despite being fairly pampered young women of money. Little was discussed of how they managed to have enough money to live but long strands of pearls seem to be an ongoing theme. And neither girl ends up or ever was a Baroness so the title baffles me.
It took me a bit to get involved in the story but once I did I found it to be a fast read - I ended up finishing it in one day. I can't say that I cared for Rosie at all. Lilly was a more well rounded character. The parents were there to provide a sounding board and or maybe I should say dart board for the girls' reasons for doing what they did. The book had little happiness in it and it does not leave much hope for the next chapter as the Great Depression is looming.
The book moves from Paris to New York and then to the Midwest as Rosie and Lilly try to shake the family bonds they feel bind them so tightly. I did not quite understand the dynamic of the almost hatred these girls had for their families. Perhaps if I had read the first book in the series I might have had a better understanding, I don't know but it seemed to be there simply to send these two off on their adventures. Adventures that they seemed to survive quite well despite being fairly pampered young women of money. Little was discussed of how they managed to have enough money to live but long strands of pearls seem to be an ongoing theme. And neither girl ends up or ever was a Baroness so the title baffles me.
It took me a bit to get involved in the story but once I did I found it to be a fast read - I ended up finishing it in one day. I can't say that I cared for Rosie at all. Lilly was a more well rounded character. The parents were there to provide a sounding board and or maybe I should say dart board for the girls' reasons for doing what they did. The book had little happiness in it and it does not leave much hope for the next chapter as the Great Depression is looming.
April 24, 2012
Wow!! What an emotional rollercoaster Baroness takes you on!! It picks up right on where Heiress left off and jumps right in to the lives of Rosie and Lilly. This book is jammed packed full with raw emotions and events that pull at your heart and send you soaring in to the sky!
Both Rosie and Lilly have very different stories that they go through but basically they are in search of the same thing. They are searching for happiness, love and identity within themselves. With their goals being the same the events that they go through are vastly different.
Mostly we are looking at Lilly’s life with a little bit of the drama going on with Rosie in the background. Lilly’s story just pulled at my heart, especially with the extreme losses she faces and her struggles with trying to figure out who God wants her to be. Her emotions go up and down and you never quite sure how her story is going to conclude.
This historical novel is so fast paced and intense and such an emotional ride that you feel like you can never put the book down. It’s a perfect example of how God can take anything broken and hurt and turn it in to a beautiful thing. I have said this before and I will say it again, God makes beautiful things out of us!!
Baroness is the second book in the Daughters of Fortune Series and I’m excited to read the third book about Rosie. While I don’t think it’s necessary for you to read book one, Heiress, before you read this book, I highly recommend that you do so that you fully understand some of the characters and the background story.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers through Litfuse for my copy to review. All opinions are my own.
Both Rosie and Lilly have very different stories that they go through but basically they are in search of the same thing. They are searching for happiness, love and identity within themselves. With their goals being the same the events that they go through are vastly different.
Mostly we are looking at Lilly’s life with a little bit of the drama going on with Rosie in the background. Lilly’s story just pulled at my heart, especially with the extreme losses she faces and her struggles with trying to figure out who God wants her to be. Her emotions go up and down and you never quite sure how her story is going to conclude.
This historical novel is so fast paced and intense and such an emotional ride that you feel like you can never put the book down. It’s a perfect example of how God can take anything broken and hurt and turn it in to a beautiful thing. I have said this before and I will say it again, God makes beautiful things out of us!!
Baroness is the second book in the Daughters of Fortune Series and I’m excited to read the third book about Rosie. While I don’t think it’s necessary for you to read book one, Heiress, before you read this book, I highly recommend that you do so that you fully understand some of the characters and the background story.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers through Litfuse for my copy to review. All opinions are my own.
September 4, 2013
The second book in the Daughters of Fortune series, Baroness picks up with the daughters of Esme and Jinx introduced in book one. It is now the 1920s, and Lilly (Esme's daughter) and Rose (Jinx's daughter) find themselves experiencing the pangs of young womenhood as they fight against wanting freedom from the life their parents want for them. Both make unwise choices of young men, but neither really learns from the mistakes. Lilly ends up running away and becoming a wing walker in a traveling airshow. Rose wants the life of a star but ends up becoming involved with Cesar Napoli, a mobster in New York City. Both go through much torment and soul-searching before finding out what is really important to them, hopefully before it is too late.
I liked this book better than the first one. The rebellious young women frustrated me at times, possibly because I'm not in that category anymore, but the story rang true. Maybe becoming a wing walker was a bit far-fetched, but there were women who did this and it is not a story line that usually pops up in a novel. The story is a bit melodramatic and at times "preachy" although it is a Christian fiction book so that is to be expected. However, I will read the third installment, Duchess, as it follows Rose through more of her life.
I liked this book better than the first one. The rebellious young women frustrated me at times, possibly because I'm not in that category anymore, but the story rang true. Maybe becoming a wing walker was a bit far-fetched, but there were women who did this and it is not a story line that usually pops up in a novel. The story is a bit melodramatic and at times "preachy" although it is a Christian fiction book so that is to be expected. However, I will read the third installment, Duchess, as it follows Rose through more of her life.
May 20, 2012
A coming of age story set in the Roaring Twenties, Baroness tells the story of two daughters of fortune determined to follow their dreams no matter what happens on the way. Rosie is determined to become a star on the newly energy silver screen and all Lilly wants to do is return to Montana to live on the ranch her family left so long ago. Neither realized the pathway to their dreams would be filled with so much pain, heartache, and of course, men.
This book was just okay. I started out really liking Lilly, the sort of nerdy, head in the clouds woman who was trying to avoid the incoming flapper era her cousin Rosie was trying to force on her. But I quickly found myself feeling that both women were both extremely ignorant and spoiled, shown time after time in their actions, and I just couldn't relate as they both did things in their lives that intentionally hurt those that loved them just to chase after a guy who didn't care about them. The plus side is that the writing was good, the characters were well developed (I just didn't particularly care for them), and the story is an interesting and unpredictable one. 3 stars.
This book was just okay. I started out really liking Lilly, the sort of nerdy, head in the clouds woman who was trying to avoid the incoming flapper era her cousin Rosie was trying to force on her. But I quickly found myself feeling that both women were both extremely ignorant and spoiled, shown time after time in their actions, and I just couldn't relate as they both did things in their lives that intentionally hurt those that loved them just to chase after a guy who didn't care about them. The plus side is that the writing was good, the characters were well developed (I just didn't particularly care for them), and the story is an interesting and unpredictable one. 3 stars.
March 12, 2012
How to describe Baroness...breathtaking is the first word that comes to mind. Complex, relatable characters, intricate story lines and a fast paced plot full of surprises, plus spiritual insights. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could. I could not put this book down. I have read all of Susan May Warren's books. She's my absolute favorite author and, I have to say, she just keeps getting better. This book is so well written, it just draws you in, you feel like you're right there experiencing everything with the characters. There's not one dull moment in this story. This is an incredible book that you won't regret reading.
April 9, 2013
Susan May Warren has a knack for bringing historical periods to life. Too many "light" historical novels could just easily have been set in modern times, save for a few scattered details about clothing and pop culture. But Warren does a great job of not just immersing the reader into the Roaring Twenties, but also raising and exploring interesting questions about the era itself. It didn't hurt, of course, from my perspective, that much of the story focused on barnstorming. But even with that interest aside, I enjoyed the characters and their travails (soapy though they occasional were) and found the book the perfect vacationing companion.
July 17, 2012
I really enjoyed this 2nd installment in the Daughters of Fortune series. Although you wouldn't necessarily need to read the 1st book to enjoy this one, I am so glad that I did because it made the story that much richer.
I'm excited to read more of this new author I've discovered!
I'm excited to read more of this new author I've discovered!
November 23, 2012
Too good to put down so I finished it even though I had a bunch of other books that needed to be read! Excellent as I've come to expect from Susan May Warren. I can't wait to see what happens to Rosie in DUCHESS.
May 26, 2012
There aren't words to describe this book. The story was so phenomenally done it swept me into Rosie and Lilly's world and took me for an emotional roller coaster ride.
January 15, 2022
Stepping into womanhood during the Roaring Twenties, cousins Lilly and Rosie have much to inherit in high society, if they want it. But Rosie dreams of having a career on the silver screen, Lilly hopes to escape the big city to return to untamed Montana, and both women long to be loved in Baroness by author Susan May Warren.
This second novel in the Daughters of Fortune historical ChristFic series takes an emotional swirl through part of the Jazz Age. I'll admit, however, that after Book One left me amazed in the end, I had a bit of a challenge getting a grip on the new set of lead characters here, what with so much ground they have to cover.
I didn't find Rosie's glamorous ambitions to be compelling for her storyline because the book doesn't show her actually working as a performer; a little of her work just floats by in the background somewhere. (And why would she be so utterly convinced by the word of a man who promises to make her a star before he's even heard her sing or seen her dance or anything?) Also, the spiritual thread felt pretty forced to me with its somewhat awkward tie-in, and although I understand Lilly's stepdad Oliver's role in it, I'm a little creeped out by how controlling he can be. I'm also not sure how much Rosie's mother Jinx has learned from the decades of misery she suffered while trying to live a society life in Book One.
While I normally don't go for novels of this length where heroines spend so much time rather unhappy, this saga is just so full. Plenty of drama (but not melodrama) in this novel and so much to feel. I'm ultimately quite invested in the characters and curious to see how the series will wrap up in Book Three.
This second novel in the Daughters of Fortune historical ChristFic series takes an emotional swirl through part of the Jazz Age. I'll admit, however, that after Book One left me amazed in the end, I had a bit of a challenge getting a grip on the new set of lead characters here, what with so much ground they have to cover.
I didn't find Rosie's glamorous ambitions to be compelling for her storyline because the book doesn't show her actually working as a performer; a little of her work just floats by in the background somewhere. (And why would she be so utterly convinced by the word of a man who promises to make her a star before he's even heard her sing or seen her dance or anything?) Also, the spiritual thread felt pretty forced to me with its somewhat awkward tie-in, and although I understand Lilly's stepdad Oliver's role in it, I'm a little creeped out by how controlling he can be. I'm also not sure how much Rosie's mother Jinx has learned from the decades of misery she suffered while trying to live a society life in Book One.
While I normally don't go for novels of this length where heroines spend so much time rather unhappy, this saga is just so full. Plenty of drama (but not melodrama) in this novel and so much to feel. I'm ultimately quite invested in the characters and curious to see how the series will wrap up in Book Three.
April 25, 2012
Susan May Warren in her new book “Baroness” Book Two in the Daughters Of Fortune series published by Summerside Press takes us to the turbulent Roaring Twenties.
From the back cover: Coming of age in the turbulent Roaring Twenties, two daughters of fortune can have anything they possibly want—except freedom. Expected to marry well and take the reins of the family empire, Lilly and Rosie have their entire lives planned out for them. But Lilly longs to flee the confines of New York City for the untamed wilds of Montana. Her cousin Rosie dreams of the bright lights of the newly emerging silver screen. But following their dreams—to avant-garde France, to dazzling Broadway, to the skies of the fearless wing walkers—will demand all their courage.
When forced to decide, will Lilly and Rosie truly be able to abandon lives of ease and luxury for the love and adventure that beckons? At what cost will each daughter of fortune find her true love and a happy ending?
I like history and “Baroness” is a captivating book rich with historic detail. Lilly and Rosie are daughters of Esme and Jinx, the main characters in “Heiress”. While this book deals with the lives of both women, the focus is primarily on Lilly and all the hardships and sorrows that she goes through. ”Baroness” is an emotional ride that will wring you out and then fill you with renewal. God tells us that all things work together for the good and that, in His time, He makes all things beautiful. Want to really know how He does it? Susan May Warren shows us the how in this thrilling sequel. “Baroness” is a wonderful, sweet story with power and depth that will keep you flipping pages. I recommend this book highly and look forward to the next book in the series where the focus will be on Rosie!
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Expected to marry well and to take the reins of the family empire, they have their lives
planned out for them. But following their dreams — from avant garde France, to
Broadway, to the skies in the world of barnstormers and wing-walkers — will take all
their courage. And if they find love, will they choose freedom or happily ever
after?
Celebrate with Susan by entering her Roaring 20′s Giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:
A Kindle Fire
Signed copies of Baroness and Heiress by Susan May Warren
But hurry, the giveaway ends on 5/7/12. The winner will be announced on 5/9/12 on
Susan’s blog, Scribbles!
Just click one of the icons below to enter! Tell your friends about Susan’s giveaway on
FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.
Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are 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 Litfuse Publicity Group.. 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.”
From the back cover: Coming of age in the turbulent Roaring Twenties, two daughters of fortune can have anything they possibly want—except freedom. Expected to marry well and take the reins of the family empire, Lilly and Rosie have their entire lives planned out for them. But Lilly longs to flee the confines of New York City for the untamed wilds of Montana. Her cousin Rosie dreams of the bright lights of the newly emerging silver screen. But following their dreams—to avant-garde France, to dazzling Broadway, to the skies of the fearless wing walkers—will demand all their courage.
When forced to decide, will Lilly and Rosie truly be able to abandon lives of ease and luxury for the love and adventure that beckons? At what cost will each daughter of fortune find her true love and a happy ending?
I like history and “Baroness” is a captivating book rich with historic detail. Lilly and Rosie are daughters of Esme and Jinx, the main characters in “Heiress”. While this book deals with the lives of both women, the focus is primarily on Lilly and all the hardships and sorrows that she goes through. ”Baroness” is an emotional ride that will wring you out and then fill you with renewal. God tells us that all things work together for the good and that, in His time, He makes all things beautiful. Want to really know how He does it? Susan May Warren shows us the how in this thrilling sequel. “Baroness” is a wonderful, sweet story with power and depth that will keep you flipping pages. I recommend this book highly and look forward to the next book in the series where the focus will be on Rosie!
Baroness Roaring 20s Kindle Fire Giveaway from @SusanMayWarren!
Find
out what the reviewers are saying here!
Expected to marry well and to take the reins of the family empire, they have their lives
planned out for them. But following their dreams — from avant garde France, to
Broadway, to the skies in the world of barnstormers and wing-walkers — will take all
their courage. And if they find love, will they choose freedom or happily ever
after?
Celebrate with Susan by entering her Roaring 20′s Giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:
A Kindle Fire
Signed copies of Baroness and Heiress by Susan May Warren
But hurry, the giveaway ends on 5/7/12. The winner will be announced on 5/9/12 on
Susan’s blog, Scribbles!
Just click one of the icons below to enter! Tell your friends about Susan’s giveaway on
FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.
Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are 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 Litfuse Publicity Group.. 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.”
April 3, 2012
Lily and cousin Rosie are coming of age in the Roaring Twenties. Both belong to families of great wealth the world is their oyster. The beginning of a summer in Paris opens their eyes and ultimately alters their lives. Lily discovers her love for flying and the interest of a man and Rosie discovers what she believes to be love. Before they can both blink they find themselves whisked back stateside and their lives part for a number of years.
Lily returns home to a dying mother and a step-father she wants nothing to do with. She sneaks away without telling anyone and heads as far west as the money in her pocket will take her. It doesn't take her very far west but it does take her to an airshow. Her love of flying reigns supreme and eventually she becomes a wing walker. She also takes great notice of her pilot, a handsome man named Truman.
Rosie enters New York and sets out to see her name in lights. She unknowingly gets into a relationship with a mob boss that will prove to be deadly. In her haste to escape his hold she runs away with a baseball player who turns out to be the love of her life. They settle in Chicago and make a home for themselves.
4 years pass.
Lily is divorced and working for her mother's newspaper. Rosie is married and pregnant and moving back to New York with her husband. Lily's "ex"-husband is on his way to New York and Rosie's ex-boyfriend the mob boss knows she's back in town. Drama and tragedy are on the horizon. Great healing and beauty are also very near.
I have to stop with my synopsis there are I might give the whole plot away. Just when I think I have Susan May Warren all figured out she surprises me. Taking a giant step away from the familiarity of the other books from her I have reviewed she plunges her readers into a entirely different age. This is not your run of the mill romance book. Watching Lily and Rosie for this span of years is both enlightening and painful. You feel all of their angst right along with them. I applaud Warren for her superb character development. I also thoroughly enjoyed her handling of the time period down to the clothes worn, current events, and trends of that era. The wing walking aspect terrified me and intrigued me.
What I always love about Susan May Warren is her ability to reveal healing and God's hand in each of her books. I found the path that Lily took to healing and reconciliation with her step-father to be truly beautiful. It perfectly rounded out this book for me.
I had a hard time getting into the first couple of chapters but once I was in, I was all in. This one definitely had me reading late into the night. This is the second book in the Daughters of Fortune series and I'm not sure how I missed the first one. I plan on remedying that immediately. You can read it as a standalone but why would you want to? I am anxious to read the one that follows Baroness because it ended on a bit of a cliff-hanger.
An excellent read I highly recommend!
Lily returns home to a dying mother and a step-father she wants nothing to do with. She sneaks away without telling anyone and heads as far west as the money in her pocket will take her. It doesn't take her very far west but it does take her to an airshow. Her love of flying reigns supreme and eventually she becomes a wing walker. She also takes great notice of her pilot, a handsome man named Truman.
Rosie enters New York and sets out to see her name in lights. She unknowingly gets into a relationship with a mob boss that will prove to be deadly. In her haste to escape his hold she runs away with a baseball player who turns out to be the love of her life. They settle in Chicago and make a home for themselves.
4 years pass.
Lily is divorced and working for her mother's newspaper. Rosie is married and pregnant and moving back to New York with her husband. Lily's "ex"-husband is on his way to New York and Rosie's ex-boyfriend the mob boss knows she's back in town. Drama and tragedy are on the horizon. Great healing and beauty are also very near.
I have to stop with my synopsis there are I might give the whole plot away. Just when I think I have Susan May Warren all figured out she surprises me. Taking a giant step away from the familiarity of the other books from her I have reviewed she plunges her readers into a entirely different age. This is not your run of the mill romance book. Watching Lily and Rosie for this span of years is both enlightening and painful. You feel all of their angst right along with them. I applaud Warren for her superb character development. I also thoroughly enjoyed her handling of the time period down to the clothes worn, current events, and trends of that era. The wing walking aspect terrified me and intrigued me.
What I always love about Susan May Warren is her ability to reveal healing and God's hand in each of her books. I found the path that Lily took to healing and reconciliation with her step-father to be truly beautiful. It perfectly rounded out this book for me.
I had a hard time getting into the first couple of chapters but once I was in, I was all in. This one definitely had me reading late into the night. This is the second book in the Daughters of Fortune series and I'm not sure how I missed the first one. I plan on remedying that immediately. You can read it as a standalone but why would you want to? I am anxious to read the one that follows Baroness because it ended on a bit of a cliff-hanger.
An excellent read I highly recommend!
April 14, 2012
The Roaring Twenties is not all its cracked up to be, especially when you're Rosie Worth or Lilly Hoyt. While Rosie is the seemingly wild child, wanting to experience the painted faces and short bob's fashionable to the flappers, her cousin Lilly just wants to head back to the ranch she left behind in Montana and creating a haven for buffaloes.
Both Rosie and Lilly are the daughters of wealthy families and thus the need to be looked after, especially when their carefree ways take them on paths that their mothers don't desire for them. For Rosie, she falls head in heels in love with a man named Dashielle Parks, whom her mother warns isn't the man for her and isn't the marrying type. When she vows to prove her mother wrong, she soon learns that Dash isn't looking for marriage but merely a good time.
Lilly on the other hand finally finds something of an adventure in Paris when she finds herself separated following a celebrity funeral for Sarah Bernhardt. Knowing where she is likely to find her cousin Rosie, she is befriended by a handsome gentleman, named Rennie Dupre' who promises to show her the sights of Paris. None of them is quite so grand as when seen from an airplane flown by Rennie, but does he have his sights set on more than just Lilly's heart or is it Lilly's wealth that he is ultimately after?
In the latest novel following Heiress by Susan May Warren, Baroness catches up with the Daughters of Fortune series and follows the chaotic lifestyles of two young girls on the heels of trying to find something in life that makes them happy besides money. As both girls struggle to pull away from their parents strong-handed ways of finding what is best for them during this time in history, however, neither set of parents ask what the girls want, thinking they are simply to young to understand their emotions.
They do what any wealthy parents would, and threaten them not to see either of their men and whisk them back to New York, thinking that will solve this problem. It doesn't. Rosie and Lilly have a lot to learn in this coming-of-age story of two socialites trying to find their happiness and searching for love and self worth in the process. Susan gives the readers such viable characters to relate to and their journey will leave you breathless by the ending page. Thankfully there will be a sequel to pick up where this cliffhanger will leave you.
I received this book compliments of Litfuse Publicity for my honest review and LOVED it just as much as Heiress. It can be read as a stand alone but if you're looking for the back story of their moms, you'll need to pick up the first book. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and can't wait to pick up another Daughter of Fortune novel in the very near future.
Both Rosie and Lilly are the daughters of wealthy families and thus the need to be looked after, especially when their carefree ways take them on paths that their mothers don't desire for them. For Rosie, she falls head in heels in love with a man named Dashielle Parks, whom her mother warns isn't the man for her and isn't the marrying type. When she vows to prove her mother wrong, she soon learns that Dash isn't looking for marriage but merely a good time.
Lilly on the other hand finally finds something of an adventure in Paris when she finds herself separated following a celebrity funeral for Sarah Bernhardt. Knowing where she is likely to find her cousin Rosie, she is befriended by a handsome gentleman, named Rennie Dupre' who promises to show her the sights of Paris. None of them is quite so grand as when seen from an airplane flown by Rennie, but does he have his sights set on more than just Lilly's heart or is it Lilly's wealth that he is ultimately after?
In the latest novel following Heiress by Susan May Warren, Baroness catches up with the Daughters of Fortune series and follows the chaotic lifestyles of two young girls on the heels of trying to find something in life that makes them happy besides money. As both girls struggle to pull away from their parents strong-handed ways of finding what is best for them during this time in history, however, neither set of parents ask what the girls want, thinking they are simply to young to understand their emotions.
They do what any wealthy parents would, and threaten them not to see either of their men and whisk them back to New York, thinking that will solve this problem. It doesn't. Rosie and Lilly have a lot to learn in this coming-of-age story of two socialites trying to find their happiness and searching for love and self worth in the process. Susan gives the readers such viable characters to relate to and their journey will leave you breathless by the ending page. Thankfully there will be a sequel to pick up where this cliffhanger will leave you.
I received this book compliments of Litfuse Publicity for my honest review and LOVED it just as much as Heiress. It can be read as a stand alone but if you're looking for the back story of their moms, you'll need to pick up the first book. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and can't wait to pick up another Daughter of Fortune novel in the very near future.
August 6, 2016
For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:38
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
Matthew 5:4
Coming of age in the turbulent Roaring Twenties, two daughters of fortune can have anything they possibly want—except freedom. Expected to marry well and take the reins of the family empire, Lilly and Rosie have their entire lives planned out for them. But Lilly longs to flee the confines of New York City for the untamed wilds of Montana. Her cousin Rosie dreams of the bright lights of the newly emerging silver screen. But following their dreams—to avant-garde France, to dazzling Broadway, to the skies of the fearless wing walkers—will demand all their courage.
When forced to decide, will Lilly and Rosie truly be able to abandon lives of ease and luxury for the love and adventure that beckons? At what cost will each daughter of fortune find her true love and a happy ending?
Baroness is the second book in the Daughters of Fortune series. In Baroness, Susan May Warren immerses the reader into the culture of the Roaring Twenties. I felt like I should dawn a long strand of pearls and walk around the house swinging them. I had forgotten that Lilly had briefly met her cousin Jack, in book one, before he ran off to join the war, so I was afraid that she was going to meet her long lost cousin and fall in love. Thankfully that does not happen in this story. The cover of this book drew me to the series initially, I just loved the green dress and the hat. I'm so glad for this great cover, because both Heiress and Baroness are wonderfully written. Susan May Warren, gently shares the gospel with her reader, slowly unfolding the truths of God's love. Upon finishing Baroness, I did something that I rarely do. I purchased the next book, Duchess, instead of waiting for it to be available from the library. I simply couldn't wait, and it was worth every dollar.
I will be reading this book again.
Baroness, by Susan May Warren is currently available for purchase from your local or online retailer.
Romans 8:38
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
Matthew 5:4
Coming of age in the turbulent Roaring Twenties, two daughters of fortune can have anything they possibly want—except freedom. Expected to marry well and take the reins of the family empire, Lilly and Rosie have their entire lives planned out for them. But Lilly longs to flee the confines of New York City for the untamed wilds of Montana. Her cousin Rosie dreams of the bright lights of the newly emerging silver screen. But following their dreams—to avant-garde France, to dazzling Broadway, to the skies of the fearless wing walkers—will demand all their courage.
When forced to decide, will Lilly and Rosie truly be able to abandon lives of ease and luxury for the love and adventure that beckons? At what cost will each daughter of fortune find her true love and a happy ending?
Baroness is the second book in the Daughters of Fortune series. In Baroness, Susan May Warren immerses the reader into the culture of the Roaring Twenties. I felt like I should dawn a long strand of pearls and walk around the house swinging them. I had forgotten that Lilly had briefly met her cousin Jack, in book one, before he ran off to join the war, so I was afraid that she was going to meet her long lost cousin and fall in love. Thankfully that does not happen in this story. The cover of this book drew me to the series initially, I just loved the green dress and the hat. I'm so glad for this great cover, because both Heiress and Baroness are wonderfully written. Susan May Warren, gently shares the gospel with her reader, slowly unfolding the truths of God's love. Upon finishing Baroness, I did something that I rarely do. I purchased the next book, Duchess, instead of waiting for it to be available from the library. I simply couldn't wait, and it was worth every dollar.
I will be reading this book again.
Baroness, by Susan May Warren is currently available for purchase from your local or online retailer.
May 5, 2012
Jazz, air planes, post-WWI, short dresses, bold makeup, gangsters, baseball, tons of jewelry, and flapper dresses. Baroness leaves nothing out in this roaring twenties novel. Susan May Warren is truly a master a capturing an era that few people write about.
I couldn't put this book down. Almost every character jumped off the page! The two main characters, Rosie and Lilly, truly captured the heart. I cried with them, felt joy with them, and cheered as they attempted to reach for more.
The beginning of the novel seemed, at first, to be somewhat a waste of time. Yes, we strolled through the streets of Paris, but when nothing truly developed from the characters' time in Paris, I started wondering why on earth it was in the novel. Of course, Susan May Warren is a wonderful story-teller, and one can rest-assured nothing goes to waste in this story. I love how she walked us through their past rather provide back story.
While this novel is written for adults, I can't help but feel that it should also be a "coming of age" novel. If I were a teacher in school, I opt for this Baroness over The Great Gatsby for required reading.
Now, I have to say something about the title. Baroness. Why is this so cute? When you discover one of main character's final career choice, you can't help but think of the Red Baron. To be honest, I think it's genius!
If you're looking for a novel that is different, gripping, exciting, and historical, then Baroness will leave you not only satisfied, but longing for more. Thank goodness, Susan May Warren has a third one in the series coming out!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, via Litfuse publicity, in exchange for an honest review.
I couldn't put this book down. Almost every character jumped off the page! The two main characters, Rosie and Lilly, truly captured the heart. I cried with them, felt joy with them, and cheered as they attempted to reach for more.
The beginning of the novel seemed, at first, to be somewhat a waste of time. Yes, we strolled through the streets of Paris, but when nothing truly developed from the characters' time in Paris, I started wondering why on earth it was in the novel. Of course, Susan May Warren is a wonderful story-teller, and one can rest-assured nothing goes to waste in this story. I love how she walked us through their past rather provide back story.
While this novel is written for adults, I can't help but feel that it should also be a "coming of age" novel. If I were a teacher in school, I opt for this Baroness over The Great Gatsby for required reading.
Now, I have to say something about the title. Baroness. Why is this so cute? When you discover one of main character's final career choice, you can't help but think of the Red Baron. To be honest, I think it's genius!
If you're looking for a novel that is different, gripping, exciting, and historical, then Baroness will leave you not only satisfied, but longing for more. Thank goodness, Susan May Warren has a third one in the series coming out!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, via Litfuse publicity, in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2012
Title: BARONESS
Author: Susan May Warren
Publisher: Summerside Press
March 2012
ISBN: 978-1609366315
Genre: Inspirational/historical
Lilly and Rosie are both daughters of fortune. Lilly is most happy on her family’s Montana ranch, while Rosie is happy with her New York City life. When Lilly is made to go with Rosie to Europe as a chaperone, she goes but she doesn’t enjoy the same things that Rosie does. Rosie is into the nightlife. Lilly is more of a home-body, a bookworm—at least until she discovers the wonderful world of aeroplanes.
A funeral of a movie star draws the girls apart then they get separated in the crowd. Rosie meets up with her friends and Lilly meets a boy. They both have wonderful times, until Rosie realizes that Lilly never came home that night and then the girls have a spat.
The girls attempt to follow their dreams—but their dreams will require all their courage. And when they are forced to decide—will they be able to truly chose between love and adventure versus ease and luxury?
BARONESS is the second book in Ms. Warren’s Daughters of Fortune series, but it easily stands alone. At first I found Baroness hard to get into. There were a lot of characters introduced, and the time period 1920’s with flappers, really isn’t a favorite of mine. But after awhile Ms. Warren’s awesome writing and her voice drew me into the story and I began to care for the girls. Lilly was my favorite, a girl more like me, probably, than the more socialite Rosie, but Rosie did grow on me.
If you love historical fiction, or Susan May Warren, you’ll want to read BARONESS and any of Ms. Warren’s other books. The only thing really lacking in this book is more of a faith element, though there is some. Great book. $14.99. 366 pages.
Author: Susan May Warren
Publisher: Summerside Press
March 2012
ISBN: 978-1609366315
Genre: Inspirational/historical
Lilly and Rosie are both daughters of fortune. Lilly is most happy on her family’s Montana ranch, while Rosie is happy with her New York City life. When Lilly is made to go with Rosie to Europe as a chaperone, she goes but she doesn’t enjoy the same things that Rosie does. Rosie is into the nightlife. Lilly is more of a home-body, a bookworm—at least until she discovers the wonderful world of aeroplanes.
A funeral of a movie star draws the girls apart then they get separated in the crowd. Rosie meets up with her friends and Lilly meets a boy. They both have wonderful times, until Rosie realizes that Lilly never came home that night and then the girls have a spat.
The girls attempt to follow their dreams—but their dreams will require all their courage. And when they are forced to decide—will they be able to truly chose between love and adventure versus ease and luxury?
BARONESS is the second book in Ms. Warren’s Daughters of Fortune series, but it easily stands alone. At first I found Baroness hard to get into. There were a lot of characters introduced, and the time period 1920’s with flappers, really isn’t a favorite of mine. But after awhile Ms. Warren’s awesome writing and her voice drew me into the story and I began to care for the girls. Lilly was my favorite, a girl more like me, probably, than the more socialite Rosie, but Rosie did grow on me.
If you love historical fiction, or Susan May Warren, you’ll want to read BARONESS and any of Ms. Warren’s other books. The only thing really lacking in this book is more of a faith element, though there is some. Great book. $14.99. 366 pages.
June 4, 2012
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Just like Heiress (book one in the Daughters of Fortune series), Baroness was an emotional ride. There was so much sadness, but also some happiness. =)
Baroness is mainly about Lilly (Esme's daughter) and Rosie (Jinx's daughter) and their quest for love/journey in life. While we do see a little of Esme and Jinx, it's not much.
It took me a while to figure out who everyone was in Baroness because it's been a while since I've read Heiress, but after that I thoroughly enjoyed the book - although there were a few times I reread sentences because there was so much detail!
Even though I loved Baroness, at one point I got to where I dreaded reading more because I knew what was going to happen - and I did. not. want. it. to!! However, I also had to keep reading because I needed to see how it would end and I just loved the story!
With another cliff-hanger ending, Baroness, book two in Susan May Warren's Daughters of Fortune series, leaves me anticipating Duchess, book three!
If you like novels like this - that grab your attention and emotions - and don't mind there being some sad moments, than I would definitely recommend it, but first read Heiress (if you haven't already). I think they are best read in order.
*I received this book for free for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. *
Just like Heiress (book one in the Daughters of Fortune series), Baroness was an emotional ride. There was so much sadness, but also some happiness. =)
Baroness is mainly about Lilly (Esme's daughter) and Rosie (Jinx's daughter) and their quest for love/journey in life. While we do see a little of Esme and Jinx, it's not much.
It took me a while to figure out who everyone was in Baroness because it's been a while since I've read Heiress, but after that I thoroughly enjoyed the book - although there were a few times I reread sentences because there was so much detail!
Even though I loved Baroness, at one point I got to where I dreaded reading more because I knew what was going to happen - and I did. not. want. it. to!! However, I also had to keep reading because I needed to see how it would end and I just loved the story!
With another cliff-hanger ending, Baroness, book two in Susan May Warren's Daughters of Fortune series, leaves me anticipating Duchess, book three!
If you like novels like this - that grab your attention and emotions - and don't mind there being some sad moments, than I would definitely recommend it, but first read Heiress (if you haven't already). I think they are best read in order.
*I received this book for free for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. *
April 25, 2012
It seems that novels come and go with themes as a major theme for the past year has been the roaring 1920's , the year of the flappers with The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty , Beautiful days by Anna Godbersen, Vixen by Jillian Lauren and Lillies in the Moonlight by Alison Pittman and of course leading up to the film "The Great Gatsby" which is to be released later this year starring Leonardo DiCaprio.
In Baroness we meet two cousins Lily and Rosie, they are both expected to marry into money and live an extravagant life and to take hold of the family empire which due to some horrible scandals and rumours is starting to crumble. The two girls though have very different dreams , Lily hates the bustling cities of New York and Paris and wishes for the quiet of her old family ranch in Montana , the western scenes in which she can only dream about whilst devouring novels by Zane Grey - a popular Western author even popular in real-life. Rosie on the other hand dreams of being famous , acting on Broadway and seeing her name flashing in lights. When tragedy strikes the girls and decisions are to be made , will the girls choose their lives of easy pleasures and luxury over the excitement of adventure ? Will the pair accept the sacrifices that will have to be made in order to obtain their dreams even if it means losing the things and people they care about in the process ?
Baroness follows the story of two girls and the lengths that they will take and the measures that they will have to overcome and even sacrifice to get to where they want to be, a somebody in this world.
In Baroness we meet two cousins Lily and Rosie, they are both expected to marry into money and live an extravagant life and to take hold of the family empire which due to some horrible scandals and rumours is starting to crumble. The two girls though have very different dreams , Lily hates the bustling cities of New York and Paris and wishes for the quiet of her old family ranch in Montana , the western scenes in which she can only dream about whilst devouring novels by Zane Grey - a popular Western author even popular in real-life. Rosie on the other hand dreams of being famous , acting on Broadway and seeing her name flashing in lights. When tragedy strikes the girls and decisions are to be made , will the girls choose their lives of easy pleasures and luxury over the excitement of adventure ? Will the pair accept the sacrifices that will have to be made in order to obtain their dreams even if it means losing the things and people they care about in the process ?
Baroness follows the story of two girls and the lengths that they will take and the measures that they will have to overcome and even sacrifice to get to where they want to be, a somebody in this world.
April 11, 2012
What a drama!
That was the only thought running through my head on the close of that last page. And the drama isn’t ending any time soon!
“Baroness” picks up on the heels that “Heiress” left off. Though not a specific requirement that the reader have read book one before two, you’ll appreciate characters and their situations greater if you have.
Only Susan May Warren can take 361 pages and PACK it jam-full of angst, character depth, emotional turmoil and span several years and *not* give the reader whiplash
.
The two story lines between Rosie and Lilly start together, diverge in the middle and eventually come back together. What happens in between is not for the faint of heart reader. There were moments when Lilly wing-walked that my heart literally dropped out of my chest.
Rosie’s story pierced my soul and I felt deeply for the struggles she walked through, trying to discover herself and since the third book is still about her journey, I’m eager to know what will happen with this lost woman.
Cover to cover, the historical is a great novel. Never slows down, keeps a consistent pace the entire book through and like I said at the top…what a drama! Not a slick soap opera drama, just the story of life. And how God takes our drama and uses it to mold, shape and guide us. I can’t wait to find out what happens to Rosie!
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers through Litfuse for my copy to review.
That was the only thought running through my head on the close of that last page. And the drama isn’t ending any time soon!
“Baroness” picks up on the heels that “Heiress” left off. Though not a specific requirement that the reader have read book one before two, you’ll appreciate characters and their situations greater if you have.
Only Susan May Warren can take 361 pages and PACK it jam-full of angst, character depth, emotional turmoil and span several years and *not* give the reader whiplash
.
The two story lines between Rosie and Lilly start together, diverge in the middle and eventually come back together. What happens in between is not for the faint of heart reader. There were moments when Lilly wing-walked that my heart literally dropped out of my chest.
Rosie’s story pierced my soul and I felt deeply for the struggles she walked through, trying to discover herself and since the third book is still about her journey, I’m eager to know what will happen with this lost woman.
Cover to cover, the historical is a great novel. Never slows down, keeps a consistent pace the entire book through and like I said at the top…what a drama! Not a slick soap opera drama, just the story of life. And how God takes our drama and uses it to mold, shape and guide us. I can’t wait to find out what happens to Rosie!
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers through Litfuse for my copy to review.
July 12, 2012
Wow! What a whirlwind! I was definitely swept up into this coming-of-age story set in the Roaring Twenties in Susan May Warren's latest book, Baroness. I haven't read the first one, so I felt like I was lacking some of the background knowledge to really understand the story more in depth, but I don't think that it took away too much from my reading of the 2nd book. This story took you on a very emotional roller coaster with all it's twists and turns, especially since it sweeps you from the first page and doesn't let you go until the end.
Rosie and Lilly are both daughters of wealthy families, who couldn't be more different than each other, are faced with the obstacles of finding love, happiness and their self-worth amidst many trials and tribulations. I found myself feeling more for Lilly, maybe because I named my daughter Lily? I'm not sure. Her story resonated with me more than Rosie's. I liked that you followed the characters over the span of many years while watching their stories unfold before you. What a journey!
This was my first Susan May Warren book and I am impressed with the way she makes you care so much about her characters by making them so real and believable. I am very much looking forward to catching up on the first book, Heiress, and reading the third one - hopefully SOON!
Rosie and Lilly are both daughters of wealthy families, who couldn't be more different than each other, are faced with the obstacles of finding love, happiness and their self-worth amidst many trials and tribulations. I found myself feeling more for Lilly, maybe because I named my daughter Lily? I'm not sure. Her story resonated with me more than Rosie's. I liked that you followed the characters over the span of many years while watching their stories unfold before you. What a journey!
This was my first Susan May Warren book and I am impressed with the way she makes you care so much about her characters by making them so real and believable. I am very much looking forward to catching up on the first book, Heiress, and reading the third one - hopefully SOON!
April 30, 2012
Roaring twenties, Paris, girls, glitz, boys, and longing--throw them all together and you have a marvelous plot brewing that just begs to be written out in a novel. Susan May Warren did just that in her novel The Baroness. The Baroness is book two in a trilogy, the first being The Heiress. I did not read the first book in this series and I was a bit worried about whether or not I would be able to follow it or if I would be missing details pertinent to this story. Thankfully, my anxiety was completely unnecessary as Ms. Warren masterfully wove details from The Heiress into this novel. She tucked enough clues into the Baroness to not only give me all the details I needed, but also I want to go back and read The Heiress!
Many times in life we find ourselves wondering when enough is enough-how many times can bad things happen to the same family. I'm sure Lilly and Rosie, the main characters in The Baroness ask themselves this time and time again. This fast=paced, descriptive novel will hook you on the first page and reel you in all the way to the very last.
Ms. Warren is one of my favorite Christian authors. I've cut back quite a bit on the titles I review, but I review Ms. Warren's every chance I get and once again she did not disappoint.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
Many times in life we find ourselves wondering when enough is enough-how many times can bad things happen to the same family. I'm sure Lilly and Rosie, the main characters in The Baroness ask themselves this time and time again. This fast=paced, descriptive novel will hook you on the first page and reel you in all the way to the very last.
Ms. Warren is one of my favorite Christian authors. I've cut back quite a bit on the titles I review, but I review Ms. Warren's every chance I get and once again she did not disappoint.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
June 12, 2012
This is the second book in the Daughters of Fortune series, but it can be read as a stand-alone as it focuses on the generation after the first book; cousins Lilly and Rosie are daughters of the main characters (Esme and Jinx) in Heiress (which I reviewed here). Like their mothers before them, they have been raised in opulence but they are finding that fortune doesn't insulate them from heartache, loss, or dashed dreams. Set in the Roaring Twenties, this is a captivating book rich with historic detail that generated all sorts of emotions as I read! While the time period of the book is nearly a century ago, there truly is "nothing new under the sun" as Lilly and Rose experience many of the same issues and angst that folks struggle with today. They are truly looking for love everywhere but its Source. I look forward to the final book in this series!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Summerside Press and Litfuse Publicity Group as part of their Blogger Review 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.”
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Summerside Press and Litfuse Publicity Group as part of their Blogger Review 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.”
May 6, 2012
Although this is a book in a series, the reader can mostly get by without having read the first. The two daughters are both different and similar, they both want to make their way in life, but have very different ideas of how they should go about doing so. Rosie and Lilly will tell their tales from their own view points. The reader will likely be able to connect to at least one, if not both, of the main characters. They go through experiences that many of us will have at least once in our lives. We can flinch in embarrassment and be glad for them.
The author clearly spent a lot of time on the setting. The details were refined and the reader will really feel as if he/she stepped into the Roaring Twenties. The chaos can literally be felt by the reader and the optimism and depression are right around the corner. The other characters round out the novel. Some play a large part while others are merely passersby.
The plot was not exactly new, but the author made the plot feel new. Between the setting and the main characters, this book was actually pretty good. This book is recommended to adult readers.
The author clearly spent a lot of time on the setting. The details were refined and the reader will really feel as if he/she stepped into the Roaring Twenties. The chaos can literally be felt by the reader and the optimism and depression are right around the corner. The other characters round out the novel. Some play a large part while others are merely passersby.
The plot was not exactly new, but the author made the plot feel new. Between the setting and the main characters, this book was actually pretty good. This book is recommended to adult readers.
February 14, 2014
Four and a Half Stars
The drama keeps on coming in Book 2, the Daughters of Fortune series. Warren continues to weave a tale that lures you in, engrosses you and has you on edge, as our two daughters of fortune seem to rashly dash through life, and what a wake they cause! They are so sure in their youthfulness of who they are or who they are NOT, and while seemingly oblivious to the blessings they already have, they search for blessings that they feel must be earned. What a story!
I love how Warren's books are so filled with life lessons on faith and love but they are not wham in your face or preachy. These truths are so woven into the story and deep that they cause you to subtly reflect on them at first and then step back and take a deeper look. In this story, these girls are seeking to belong, to be loved. They are blind to God's love and instead see only their tragedies and question how He can love them when these things happen. Journey with them as they learn the truth about real love and that nothing can ever separate us from the love of God, we do not have to bargain or offer him anything for his steadfast, unfailing love.
WONDERFUL!!!
The drama keeps on coming in Book 2, the Daughters of Fortune series. Warren continues to weave a tale that lures you in, engrosses you and has you on edge, as our two daughters of fortune seem to rashly dash through life, and what a wake they cause! They are so sure in their youthfulness of who they are or who they are NOT, and while seemingly oblivious to the blessings they already have, they search for blessings that they feel must be earned. What a story!
I love how Warren's books are so filled with life lessons on faith and love but they are not wham in your face or preachy. These truths are so woven into the story and deep that they cause you to subtly reflect on them at first and then step back and take a deeper look. In this story, these girls are seeking to belong, to be loved. They are blind to God's love and instead see only their tragedies and question how He can love them when these things happen. Journey with them as they learn the truth about real love and that nothing can ever separate us from the love of God, we do not have to bargain or offer him anything for his steadfast, unfailing love.
WONDERFUL!!!
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