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Edge of Freedom #1

No Safe Harbor

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The Thrill of Romantic Suspense Meets the Romance of 1800s America

Lured by a handful of scribbled words across a faded letter, Cara Hamilton sets off from 1896 Ireland on a quest to find the brother she'd thought dead. Her search lands her in America, amidst a houseful of strangers and one man who claims to be a friend--Rourke Walsh.

Despite her brother's warning, Cara decides to trust Rourke and reveals the truth about her purpose in America. But he is not who he claims to be, and as rumors begin to circulate about an underground group of dangerous revolutionaries, Cara's desperation grows. Her questions lead her ever closer to her brother, but they also bring her closer to destruction as Rourke's true intentions come to light.

270 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2012

169 people are currently reading
1819 people want to read

About the author

Elizabeth Ludwig

47 books132 followers
Elizabeth Ludwig is an accomplished speaker and teacher, often attending conferences where she lectures on editing for fiction writers, crafting effective novel proposals, and conducting successful editor/agent interviews. Book three in her popular EDGE OF FREEDOM series, Tide and Tempest, was named a finalist for the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Elizabeth was also named a finalist in the 2015 Selah Awards for her novella “One Holy Night”, part of the bestselling anthology collection, Christmas Comes to Bethlehem, Maine. Most recently, she was honored to be awarded a HOLT Medallion for her book, A Tempting Taste of Mystery, part of the SUGARCREEK AMISH MYSTERIES series from Guideposts. Her latest releases include Sheeps Passing in the Night, part of the MYSTERIES OF MARTHA’S VINEYARD series, also from Guideposts, and The Coffee Club Mysteries from Barbour Publishing. To learn more, visit ElizabethLudwig.com.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 230 reviews
Profile Image for Dale Harcombe.
Author 14 books426 followers
March 28, 2020
Cara Hamilton had believed her brother Eoghan was dead. But then a letter lets her know he is a live. Eoghan is her only family, as their parents are dead. Desperate to re-unite with her twin brother, Cara leaves Ireland for America. She expects he will find a way to be at the dock to meet her. But he is not. He is in hiding from those who seek to kill him. Another passenger on the ship recommends a boarding house where she can stay. Thankful for his help, Cara ends up finding a houseful of strangers, some whom warm to her but there is at least one who seems to hate her, though Cara has no idea why that should be so. Cara also meets the intriguing Rourke Walsh, who claims to be a friend. But can she trust him? Can she trust anyone? Eoghan has warned her not to trust anyone. No closer to locating Eoghan, Cara has lots of questions. But those questions only seem to get her in more trouble as attempts are made on her life. And others who want to kill Eoghan are watching her every move. Can she re-unite with Eoghan? And what about the feelings that have sprung up for Rourke?
The story strts in New York in 1897. I found Cara, with her strong faith in God, a very likable character and I also like several of the others at the boarding house. For a while it is hard to know what to make of Rourke and where he stands, especially given circumstances surrounding his father’s death plus the attitude of hate emanating from others in his family. I have to admit this period of time and the historical situation with the English and the Catholic versus Protestant Irish is not something I knew a lot about. I enjoyed learning more about it and quickly got drawn into the story. For a time it was hard to know who to trust.
The story moves at a good steady pace. It certainly held my interest throughout. Things became very tense especially towards the end. Revenge, hatred, love, forgiveness, family ties and religious and cultural prejudices all play a part in this book. I found it to be an interesting read. Now all I have to do is hopefully get my hands on part 2 once the coronavirus dilemma is finally over and libraries re-open. Those who like historical novels with mystery, romance, suspense and a real abiding faith an inherent part of the main character should enjoy this one as I did. Christian content is evident and well handled, not laboured or preachy in this involving read. That it took me three days to read it, is not a negative reflection on the book but more on current circumstances.
Profile Image for Andrea Cox.
Author 4 books1,741 followers
January 13, 2018
Fantastic book! I really enjoyed the complexity of this story, how everything was interwoven yet kept me guessing, and that the characters were so realistic they practically popped off the page.

There was one moment that I found to be blatantly disrespectful to God and fellow parishioners, during which the lead and another character talked during a prayer time at a Catholic church. While I am not Catholic, I still believe the prayer times during their church services should be respected.

Other than that, this was a wonderful story. I am excited to continue this series soon!

I was not compensated for my honest review.
Profile Image for Natasa.
1,426 reviews6 followers
November 7, 2021
This book had it all; it had romance; had an adventure; it had intrigue, and it had faith. I liked the main characters and how they dealt with their struggles and also how they grew together. I liked how important faith was, but that it didn’t overtake the storyline. Sometimes I was on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next and could hardly put it down.
Profile Image for Olivia.
699 reviews138 followers
January 29, 2018
{3.5 stars}

Besides a few moments that I was like "What in the world...?", "I'm so lost..." and "CHARACTERS, behave!" I really enjoyed this book. Very suspenseful and there are so many things going on that you just have to keep reading. I'm curious to see how the series continues, especially concerning Eoghan :)
Profile Image for Casey.
432 reviews114 followers
October 19, 2012
This novel came out of nowhere and completely enthralled me.

A rich historical with tension abounding in heritage, setting and characters. The romance was forbidden and absolutely perfect. I loved the richness of the Irish culture, how their prejudice crossed the ocean to America with them and produced more than a little bit of fodder for today’s modern authors.

The voice behind the words on the page was what swept me so deeply into this book. It’s engrossing, unique and perfect for a deep and full historical. There was a familiarity and smoothness to the story that propelled me quickly through the story. I now want to go right back and read slowly, taking every little bit back in.

Cara and Rourke are strong and determined characters. The suspense is bringing them together and the romantic tension sizzles. Between the two of those vices, I might have had all the air squeezed out of me.

I wasn’t sure how well I would like Rourke as from the first couple chapters, I had the impression he might be the bad guy, or at least in cahoots with the bad guys. But the man has a heart of flesh and I loved watching him fall in love with Cara. It changed him. And I love a reformed bad boy.

Beginning to end, I was no short of impressed, and now most eager for book two in the Edge of Freedom series. Well done!

This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers through CFBA for my copy to review.
Profile Image for Hannah.
2,844 reviews1,437 followers
December 29, 2015
I really enjoyed the suspense of this story. There are plenty of twists and turns, and I loved Elizabeth Ludwig's writing style. I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical adventures! I read it in two days and went straight to the two sequels.
Profile Image for Abby Burrus.
Author 2 books99 followers
January 13, 2023
Eh, I'm kinda on fence about the rating for this one. Guess it depends one what part of the book your in. Some parts are 3 stars, others 3.5, other's 4... (This is going to be one of those 'spews out random thoughts' reviews of mine.)

First of all, let's start with the reason I picked up this book. This cover is STUNNING in real life. I just adore that green color and dash of red thrown in there. It caught my attention enough that I picked up the book and decided to buy it from the library sale.
Secondly, the fact that it's about Irish people which goes along with the green cover so well. I didn't know that when I first picked it up, but it matches so well. The Irish accents are so fun too. I can't imagine leaving the greenery of Ireland for the stuffy dirtiness of New York City, but you know, gotta do what you gotta do.

And Cara is certainly willing to do what's she's got to do to find her brother Eoghan. Her devotion to him is admirable.
Annnnndddd Goodreads deleted the rest of this review. So therefore, you're not going to get all that I had originally written because I don't feel like writing it all over again.
Rourke I liked alright. I mean, who wouldn't like his Irish accent and good looks and kind mannerisms? But I do take issue with his determination to see his father avenged, while at the same time professing himself to be a Christian. I didn't like that about him.

As for plot, it never dragged and there was definitely a 'web' of intrigue. The real main villain (not giving away who it is) was portrayed well and the type that you both kinda feel sorry for but at the same time don't at all.

The romance wasn't the best that I've ever read. For one thing, I don't feel Cara had enough reason to love Rourke as she did. It was also more sensual or physical than I usually read in Christian romance. Nothing to make me blush, just things like the touch of one main character on another's arm causing burning and tingling sensations, lol. Or noticing how their eyelashes look. That type of thing. Which I'm alright with so long as it doesn't go too far, but at the same time, I'm used to reading / like to read romance where the characters notice each other's character, faith, and actions. But it wasn't terrible either.

For faith, it was sprinkled throughout but not overtly. It was more like Christian characters acting like Christians (for the most part *cough* cough*) and making some statements / thinking about their beliefs. Which again, I'm fine with, but not satisfied with.
Overall, it was a good, enjoyable read that I'm glad I picked up at the sale.

Profile Image for Cassie.
258 reviews48 followers
January 2, 2014
I was intrigued by the premise of this book. Cara is looking for her twin brother, who she thought was dead. But, he is in hiding because several people want to kill him.

This book promised to be suspenseful, but I felt that it was very slow, and I found myself losing interest in the plot and the characters. And the backstory was confusing, I don't know if I completely understood each character's past and how it motivated them to act in the book.

Also, the ending was not what I wanted. Without spoiling the end for you, let's just say the brother/sister reunion was disappointing. And, as far as Cara and Rourke's ending, I felt like it was pushed a bit. They both kept secrets from each other, so I don't know if they were ever able to have an honest moment together until those secrets had been revealed.
Profile Image for Nicole.
Author 17 books146 followers
January 31, 2019
A fantastic suspense filled with just the right amounts of intrigue, romance, and faith! Super glad to know I have the rest of the series waiting on my shelf...
Profile Image for Renee.
796 reviews
December 4, 2012
I'm a huge fan of general market historical suspense/mystery by authors like Deanna Raybourn and Carol K. Carr and I'm so glad that Elizabeth Ludwig wrote this Christian historical novel so I can add her to my must-read suspense author list. I've read a bunch of contemporary suspense in the Christian fiction genre but I can't recall reading one with a historical setting in recent months. No Safe Harbor was a refreshing, detailed read that I really enjoyed. I'll admit to finding it a bit hard to get into (there were a lot of characters to keep straight) but as the chapters went the suspense kept building and I found myself unable to put the book down. The gritty streets and seedy docks of New York fairly leap off of the page. Add to it politics, gangs, and vendettas and you get a pretty serious tale that just isn't a "fluffy" story of boy meeting girl and fighting for love but a story where they're also fighting for their lives. This really was an entertaining book with drama to the nth degree. Ms. Ludwig has definitely left the story open for a sequel or two as not everything was tied up in a nice bow. Hopefully the next books brings more answers as to just who a few of the key characters introduced in No Safe Harbor really are and just what they will do when they reach Ireland. I for one can't wait to read what happens next!

~ My Rating: 4.5 stars ~

*I received my free copy of this title from the author as an influencer. I would not have reviewed the book if I couldn't honestly say I enjoyed it.*
Profile Image for Jane.
Author 11 books965 followers
May 2, 2013
This review originally appeared on the Historical Novel Society website. Review copy provided by publisher.

Cara Hamilton arrives in 1897 New York alone on an immigrant ship from Ireland, looking for her brother Eoghan, who fled to America after becoming mixed up with Irish nationalists. She is helped by Rourke Walsh, and the pair fall in love but, unknown to Cara, Rourke also wants to find Eoghan—for revenge.

Setting a romance against the fragmented politics of Irish nationalism is a bold move, and at times I feel Ludwig overestimates the reader’s familiarity with the Catholic/Protestant divide and the distinctions between northern and southern Irish. This impression is not helped by every character’s tendency to speak alternately in proper English and an improbable brogue; I would like to have seen more differences between them.

The highly figurative language that Ludwig employs keeps the tension high, but many phrases sail too close to purple prose for my liking (“He added admiration to the growing list of things he liked about her, then carved it free with an inward snarl.”) But the novel delivers the sweet love story sought by readers of inspirational romance, and Ludwig does not over-preach the spiritual aspects.
Profile Image for Megan.
1,736 reviews199 followers
August 29, 2012
No Safe Harbor, book one in the Edge of Freedom Series, is the first book I have read by Elizabeth Ludwig. Immediately I was caught up in the story; however, after a while parts of the story became a bit tedious and the ending was kind of unbelievable, but otherwise the story was very enjoyable.

I knew a little about the Irish/British conflicts, but felt that this part in the book wasn't explained very well at all. Terms were just mentioned without telling you what they meant and so I wasn't always sure if they were a good thing or a bad thing. Had I not known the little I did, I think I would have been completely lost.

I fell in love with the main characters almost right away and the secondary characters were also very nice. I am really looking forward to learning more about Ana, one of the women who befriended Cara and who the second book is going to be about. Books two and three in this series are set to be released in 2013 and 2014, respectively.

If you love historical romance with a bit of suspense then I think you would enjoy No Safe Harbor.

***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***
Profile Image for Ruth Hill.
1,115 reviews646 followers
December 25, 2013
There is absolutely nothing like a good romance, a good mystery, and the gospel all tied together. Yes, this book hit the mark with absolutely no problem. From the very first page all the way through the end, I was mesmerized. Elizabeth Ludwig is one of my favorite authors, and this is a book that will keep you completely intrigued and enthralled. The style is readable, and the characters are 3-dimensional.

There are two things I especially relished in this book. Rarely do I get to read a mystery that takes place in the 1800's. It takes a historian to be able to do it, but the author has done it. It makes sense, and it will keep you guessing till the end--it sure did me! I also love the Christian message that is so intricately woven into the framework of the story. All too often, Christian authors preach or only nominally include the Christian message. It takes a gifted author to weave faith of God into the very fabric of the story without detracting from the story. Elizabeth Ludwig is amazing!

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
Profile Image for Michelle Griep.
Author 42 books2,590 followers
October 5, 2012
Ready for a historical thrill ride that will keep you teetering on the edge of your seat? NO SAFE HARBOR is the book for you! Author Elizabeth Ludwig not only weaves intrigue with historical fact, but creates memorable characters that will leave you begging for more. Good thing this is the first in a trilogy (The Edge of Freedom).

Hero Rourke Walsh is everything a hero should be. Handsome. Strong. Completely trustworthy...or is he? Cara Hamilton has a hard time figuring that out, yet doesn't really have a choice in the matter. She'll do anything to find her brother, which fortunately for the reader, includes falling in love with Rourke.

If you love historical fiction with a splash of mystery and danger, and a heaping portion of romance, don't miss out on this one!
Profile Image for Staci.
2,297 reviews667 followers
October 19, 2014
This was my first Elizabeth Ludwig novel and certainly will not be my last. This is book one in a series of three.

The novel appealed to me because it is historical fiction, which is my favorite. What I didn't expect though was suspense to be a part of the novel. It was a nice combination of romance and suspense set in late 1800's New York.

I look forward to seeing what will happen in book two!
Profile Image for Mikayla.
1,199 reviews
June 26, 2019
I didn't expect to love this book as much as I did. If you described this book, it would sound like a lot of my least favorite things: lying characters, kissy romance, and lots of bad guys airtime.
The characters start out lying to everyone right and left, which was not my style at all, but the consequences were so well laid out, it made it worth it.
I was a little put off by all the sections with the bad guys, but it built the tension perfectly.
I loved how the romance built up slowly, and while it was a little more kissy then I like, the characters drew boundaries and kept them well.
That ending though... it was not what I expected, but it was wonderful.
I loved this book, and I'm still not 100% sure why. But it was great.
Profile Image for Sherri.
1,617 reviews
March 6, 2019
I listened to the audio book. The narrator does a good job of voices that really lets you know who is talking even with all the Irish and English accents.

A nice mix of mystery, romance, suspense of Irish immigrants set in New York.

This is my first Ludwig novel so I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
Profile Image for Stacey.
556 reviews4 followers
December 19, 2024
Romeo and Juliet set with two Irish families within Ireland and America. A sister looking for her brother; a son out for revenge against the one who took his father's life.

It felt a little unfinished as to the why, but maybe that is worked out in future installments.

No foul language, no sex scenes, main love story.
Profile Image for Victor Gentile.
2,035 reviews65 followers
November 27, 2012
Elizabeth Ludwig in her new book, “No Safe Harbor” Book One in the Edge Of Freedom series published by Bethany House takes us into the life of Cara Hamilton.

From the back cover: New York City, 1897

She came to America searching for her brother. Instead all she’s found is a web of danger.

Cara Hamilton had thought her brother to be dead. Now, clutching his letter, she leaves Ireland for America, desperate to find him. Her search leads her to a houseful of curious strangers, and one man who claims to be a friend–Rourke Walsh. Despite her brother’s warning, Cara trusts Rourke, revealing her purpose in coming to New York.

She’s then thrust into a world of subterfuge, veiled threats, and attempted murder, including political revolutionaries from the homeland out for revenge. Her questions guide her ever nearer to locating her brother–but they also bring her closer to destruction as those who want to kill him track her footsteps.

With her faith in tatters, all hope flees. Will her brother finally surface? Can he save Cara from the truth about Rourke… a man she’s grown to love?

Who do you trust when you don’t know anybody? That is the situation Cara Hamilton finds herself in. On top of that the one person she wants to trust is the one person her brother told her not to. Cara is on a quest to find her brother, believed to be dead, but alive somewhere in New York. That is her mission for leaving native Ireland and coming to America. Now she finds herself embroiled in sabotage, attempted murder and threats. The one person who can possible save her? Of course, Rourke Walsh, the man her brother said not to trust. “No Safe Harbor” is a very exciting book. One that will keep you flipping pages trying to find out what will happen next just as fast as you can read and flip. “No Safe Harbor” will keep you asking questions, once you get the answer to one question it leads you to another and then another. This is an adrenaline laced adventure story. The characters are extraordinary and well written. This is a just plain fun, exciting story that entertains as well as makes us think. Ms.Ludwig has batted in a winner and I enjoyed it a lot. I am so looking forward to book two in this series.

Elizabeth Ludwig’s “No Safe Harbor” Kindle Fire Giveaway and 12/6 Facebook Party!

Elizabeth Ludwig is celebrating her new book with a Kindle Fire Giveaway and connecting with readers at a Facebook Author Chat party on 12/6.

One winner will receive:

A Kindle Fire
No Safe Harbor by Elizabeth Ludwig

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 5th. Winner will be announced at the “No Safe Harbor” Author Chat Facebook Party on 12/6. Connect with Elizabeth, get a sneak peek of the next book in the Edge of Freedom series, try your hand at the trivia contest, and win some great prizes—gift certificates, books and a Book Club Prize Pack (10 copies for your book club or small group)!

So grab your copy of No Safe Harbor and join Elizabeth on the evening of the December 6th for a chance to connect with her and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book, don’t let that stop you from coming!)

Don’t miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 6th!

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, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station 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.”
Profile Image for Patricia Kemp Blackmon.
503 reviews58 followers
November 30, 2012
Ireland, 1897. Cara Hamilton has lost everyone in her family including her twin brother. She can't fathom why God would leave her so alone. Then one day she received a post from America, it was from her twin brother Eoghan. He was alive and hiding out in New York. But where in New York. All he said was for her to come, he would be waiting for her. She was not to mention to anyone why she the journey to America or admit she she knew him. Their lives were at stake.

As she gets her first look at Lady Liberty as the ship arrives at Ellis Island a kind old gentleman that befriended her on the voyage gave her a recommendation to the owner of a boarding house that helps Irish women to find employment and provides them with room and board. Cara had brought every penny she possessed to make the trip and to live on until she could be joined with her brother. As she is taking the fairy from the Ellis Island to the mainland a gentleman close to her age takes the seat next to her. He strikes up a conversation with her giving his name as Rourke Walsh. But being a lady she tries to stay to herself. He offers to safely escort her to the boarding house since he was familiar with the area. She decided to trust him to get her to her destination.

When they arrived at the boarding house she kindly thanked him and he told her he hoped to see her again. As she entered the boarding house she received a warm welcome thanks to the elderly man's recommendation and gladly paid her first months rent in advance. She also was to start a new job recommended by her new Land Lady Amelia.

Ellis Island, 1897. Rourke Walsh got word that the sister of the man that murdered his father was on a ship headed for New York to connect with her brother. His vengeance against Eoghan Hamilton was eating him alive. He and the rest of his clan wanted the Hamilton family dead. He finally spots a woman of her description and he is in awe of her beauty. He must make sure she is Eoghan's sister before taking any action.

Rourke starts spending more time with her but she speaks guarding her words. The more time he spends with her the more he is attracted to her and wants to protect her from his family. He can tell she is also attracted to him. This was not going as he had planned.

This story has all that I like in a book. It has intrigue, romance, and most importantly reconciliation with God. The author uses Cara's kindness and vulnerability to protect her from the bitterness Rourke has felt since his father's murder. I feel as if this is the most critical part of the story.

God will heal his children if only they believe and trust in his will. There is a Way. God has a plan!

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure
I received a free copy of this book from Baker Publishing/Bethany House and Litfuse Group for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my own opinion.

If you found this review helpful vote yes or no here.
Profile Image for Rissi.
453 reviews8 followers
January 18, 2013
While reading this historical work of fiction, I was surprised to learn that Elizabeth Ludwig has published novels prior to this since I’ve not yet uncovered the gem that was her style of writing. Under the assumption that Ludwig was another of the fabulous debut authors from 2012 (in my defense, this is her first pairing with Bethany House), imagine my further surprise when I realized I actually own one of her novels from the “Love Finds You” series. Before I reveal what I thought of this story, here is how the story goes: New to America by way of Ireland, Cara Hamilton is searching for someone. The man she meets on the docks upon arrival at Ellis Island wants to know who. Rourke Walsh has been driven by revenge for his father’s death for so long that he has forgotten what it’s like to live with peace – to be God’s servant… to accept love again. He desperately wants to learn the whereabouts of Eoghan Hamilton and Cara is his only lead. He knows that the man who killed his father had a twin sister but the more he gets to know Cara, the more he wishes she had nothing to do with the man whom Rourke has promised to visit his revenge on. Will there ever be truth between Rourke and Cara?

Historical prose is a tricky business. There’s a fine line between “accurate” and downright boring. Sometimes historical novels do bore me because of their “dry,” overly-detailed capacities but with this novel, I was thoroughly enchanted. It reads like a “dark” story – because the protagonist is driven by hatred – that includes some interesting history tidbits but uses each of its characters to the full advantage of the story. I loved the bustling boardinghouse chatter – with exception to one or two of the “bad apples,” I wanted to know more about each of the inhabitants, characters that Ludwig dropped bread crumbs into their pasts, teasers that I suspect will someday become a full-blown novel (Anna is already being given voice in the sequel). The characters are empathetic but we aren’t given much room for Rourke and Cara to develop a “solid” relationship, something that doesn’t detract from the overall story – one that’s touching and a sweet example of God’s grace. Through Cara, Rourke remembered what it meant to forgive and in that, he found love.

© Copyright 2011-2013 Dreaming Under the Same Moon / Scribbles, Scripts and Such
Profile Image for Laura.
Author 39 books655 followers
November 19, 2012
Title: NO SAFE HARBOR
Author: Elizabeth Ludwig
Publisher: Bethany House
October 2011
ISBN: 978-0764210396
Genre: Historical/romantic suspense

Cara Hamilton has gone to New York City to be with her brother, one she’d presumed dead, until she received a letter from him. Eoghan said he’d meet her there, but if he’s delayed to talk to no one, trust no one. Curious at the strange instructions, Cara keeps them in her mind, but when a business man befriends her on the voyage, then directs her to someplace to stay, and alone and scared, she’s met by Rourke Walsh, who escorts her to the boarding house, Cara wonders. Both men seem nice. And as long as she doesn’t mention her brother, then it’s okay to make friends. Right?

Rourke Walsh isn’t who he seems. His father was murdered by Eoghan Hamilton and he and his kin determine to avenge his death with Eoghan’s blood. They hope to track Eoghan down through his sister, Cara, and Rourke is assigned to trail her, just in case she is Eoghan’s sister.

Eoghan knows Cara is in town. He’s tracked her to the boarding house the day she arrived, but she was with Rourke—his enemy. In hiding, Eoghan is forced to bide his time. But with Cara in town, and the enemy on his tail, is he safe? Is Cara safe? And can Eoghan save Cara from the truth about Rourke?

NO SAFE HARBOR is the newest romantic suspense from Ms. Ludwig. I enjoyed getting to know Cara, and Rourke, and even Eoghan. I wondered at what had happened to put Eoghan on the run, hiding, and why he worried about Cara’s friends, and I worried about Cara trusting so many so quickly when warned not to. Rourke is a dear, even though he was involved in scary business.

I thoroughly enjoyed NO SAFE HARBOR and couldn’t read it fast enough. I was intrigued by all the secrets and the characters and had to read to find out what happens. If you are looking for a great romantic suspense, then NO SAFE HARBOR is definitely a book to consider. Perfect gift for the suspense reader on your list—or for yourself. $14.99. 336 pages.
Profile Image for Loraine.
3,450 reviews
January 1, 2015
SUMMARY: The Thrill of Romantic Suspense Meets the Romance of 1800s America

Lured by a handful of scribbled words across a faded letter, Cara Hamilton sets off from 1896 Ireland on a quest to find the brother she'd thought dead. Her search lands her in America, amidst a houseful of strangers and one man who claims to be a friend--Rourke Walsh.

Despite her brother's warning, Cara decides to trust Rourke and reveals the truth about her purpose in America. But he is not who he claims to be, and as rumors begin to circulate about an underground group of dangerous revolutionaries, Cara's desperation grows. Her questions lead her ever closer to her brother, but they also bring her closer to destruction as Rourke's true intentions come to light.

REVIEW: Great book that is well written and grips the reader from page one with drama, suspense, and romance. Being an avid genealogist, I truly appreciated the descriptions and inclusion of the Ellis Isle connections to the immigrants arriving from around the world particularly Ireland. Well researched, the historical detail added depth to the writing.

Cara was an interesting character full of strengths and foibles. Her brother warns her to trust no one; but loneliness leads her into situations that lead to more trouble. Rourke the main male character is torn between his feelings for Cara and his desire for revenge for his father. Both she and Rourke learn that truthfulness is the best path in the end.

I look forward to reading the others in this series.

FAVORITE QUOTES: "God's help is nearer than the door...There is nowhere He cannot go, His eyes cannot see."

"God will not hold your absence against you. He's waiting for you to come back."



Profile Image for Dawn.
781 reviews86 followers
January 14, 2013
Cara Hamilton steps off of the boat from Ireland onto the soil of Ellis Island with one thought in her mind - find her brother. With no place to stay, she finds herself in a boarding house full of strangers and a job working in a candle shop. The faded words of her brother's note warn her not to trust anyone, but despite that warning, Cara finds herself trusting a man who has proven to be a friend to her - Rourke Walsh. Rourke has secrets he's hiding. When danger threatens Cara, Rourke must put aside his secrets to assist the woman he's come to love. Will danger end their love before it has a chance to grow?

This is the first book I've read by Elizabeth Ludwig. I'll admit that it moved rather slowly at times, though I did enjoy it. I thought at times that Cara was too trusting. I And at times it seemed too convenient for Rourke to be the dashing hero. Overall the book was good. I enjoyed the sense of mystery surrounding Cara, but I did feel things got tied up too nicely. I would be interested in reading the second book in this series when it comes out.

I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommend to fans of Romantic suspense, Elizabeth Camden, Beverly Lewis

Rating - 3 stars (though it's really more of 3.5 stars)
Profile Image for Faith.
2,197 reviews
December 18, 2012
A winding tale that shows the promise of America to immigrants dreaming of a new future.


Cara Hamilton comes to America in search of her twin brother, Eoghan, who has become embroiled in political conspiracies. Cara soon becomes a target, herself. Who can she trust in this strange new world?


Ms. Ludwig does an excellent job of bringing America to life through the eyes of a young woman just arrived on it's golden shores. Cara was an excellent heroine who made the best out of the situation she was put in.


I loved how this story kept me guessing and had me puzzling over motives. I don't usually like books that tell the story from the "bad guy's" point of view, but with this novel it fit seamlessly with the story and enriched the plot.


Overall, a well written read that is laced with mystery, with a thrilling climax. I learned so much about a part of history that I wasn't formerly familiar with, Ms. Ludwig did an wonderful job with her detailed research. And now I'm excited to see what will happen next in the series!


I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review :)
Profile Image for Cynthia Hickey.
Author 463 books326 followers
October 11, 2012
I loved this story. Irish immigrants, an accidental death, a touch of suspense, what's not to like?

Cara Hamilton, once believing her brother dead, travels to America after receiving a letter from him. She arrives on foreign soil, completely alone, until she is befriended by another immigrant, Rourke Walsh. Cara's brother instructed her to keep her reason for coming to America a secret or both their lives would be in danger. When handsome Rourke offers his help, Cara is torn between attraction and distrust. The man seems to have her best welfare at heart, but it's clear the man has secrets of her own.

Page after page of romantic tension until the final climax where identities are revealed and a murderer uncovered. Very well done.
601 reviews
March 22, 2019
I had several problems with this book.
1) It was so boring and repetitive - it just dragged on and on repeating the same details over and over.
2) Too many convenient, unbelievable coincidences
3) The references to faith and prayer were awkward and seemed thrown in so this book would fit in the Christian category
4) Completely predictable
The fact that the book was completely clean raised it from 1 star to 2 stars

Content:
Sex/Nudity: mild - some kissing
Profanity/Language: none
Violence/Gore: mild - fighting and a shooting (no details)
Drugs/Alcohol: mild - adults drink
Profile Image for Cheri.
2,133 reviews72 followers
March 21, 2013
I loved this book! I couldn't put it down! What a gripping tale!
Cara Hamilton leaves Ireland for America, in search of her twin brother. She fears that her brother is dead and she must find out what has happened to him. This story has many twists and turns and grips you from page one. I read quite a few reviews that said the story dragged. I don't know where it dragged, because I had a hard time putting it down and had to keep reading. I loved Cara!
Profile Image for Marcia Gruver.
4 reviews11 followers
August 27, 2015
I've never been disappointed in Elizabeth Ludwig's books, and No Safe Harbor is no exception. As soon as you open the cover, the story places you convincingly on the mean streets of New York City in 1897. The rest is a suspenseful ride. I love the setting. Loved the characters. Loved the romance. She had me at chapter one.
Profile Image for Sarah Sundin.
Author 22 books3,552 followers
November 4, 2012
No Safe Harbor is a suspenseful novel, with well-drawn characters and a delightful romance with just the right amount of tension. Overall, Cara's predicament and Rourke's changing heart made this an engrossing read. I highly recommend it.
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