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The Heart of San Francisco #1
Love at Any Cost
Jilted by a fortune hunter, cowgirl Cassidy McClare is a spunky Texas oil heiress without a fortune who would just as soon hogtie a man as look at him. Hoping a summer visit with her wealthy cousins in San Francisco will help her forget her heartache, Cassidy travels west. But no sooner is she settled in beautiful California than Jamie McKenna, a handsome pauper looking to marry well, captures her heart. When Jamie discovers the woman he loves is poorer than he is, Cassidy finds herself bucked by love a second time. Will Jamie discover that money can't buy love after all? And can Cassidy ever learn to fully trust her heart to a man?
With delectable descriptions and a romantic sensibility, bestselling author Julie Lessman brings the Gilded Age to life in this sumptuous new series. Readers will faithfully follow Lessman to the West Coast for more romance, passion, and surprising revelations found in Love at Any Cost.
With delectable descriptions and a romantic sensibility, bestselling author Julie Lessman brings the Gilded Age to life in this sumptuous new series. Readers will faithfully follow Lessman to the West Coast for more romance, passion, and surprising revelations found in Love at Any Cost.
417 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2013
96 people are currently reading
2600 people want to read
About the author
Julie Lessman
45 books1,289 followersJulie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. A lover of all things Irish, she enjoys writing close-knit Irish family sagas that evolve into 3-D love stories: the hero, the heroine, and the God that brings them together.
Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, and Heart of San Francisco series, Julie Lessman was named American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered 18 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author of the year in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also named on Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction list.
Julie’s first contemporary novel, Isle of Hope, was voted on Family Fiction magazine’s “Best of 2015” list, and Surprised by Love appeared on Family Fiction magazine’s list of “Top Ten Novels of 2014.” Her independent novel A Light in the Window is an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.
Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets. You can contact Julie through her website and read excerpts from each of her books at www.julielessman.com.
Author of The Daughters of Boston, Winds of Change, and Heart of San Francisco series, Julie Lessman was named American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and has garnered 18 Romance Writers of America and other awards. Voted #1 Romance Author of the year in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also named on Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction and Borders Best Fiction list.
Julie’s first contemporary novel, Isle of Hope, was voted on Family Fiction magazine’s “Best of 2015” list, and Surprised by Love appeared on Family Fiction magazine’s list of “Top Ten Novels of 2014.” Her independent novel A Light in the Window is an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.
Julie has also written a self-help workbook for writers entitled Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Sweet and Inspirational Markets. You can contact Julie through her website and read excerpts from each of her books at www.julielessman.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 222 reviews
January 18, 2021
This is my very first book by Julie Lessman, and I have to say, I’m a little disappointed.
FULL REVIEW IN MY BLOG: http://abookandateacup.blogspot.com/2...
FULL REVIEW IN MY BLOG: http://abookandateacup.blogspot.com/2...
May 27, 2013
I've come to expect nothing but a great read when it has Julie Lessman's name printed on the cover. I can admit that I was a little harsh when initially reading about the McClare family because I held the O'Connor family in such a high place. If you've read the Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series, then you can understand my drift. But needless to say, the McClare's were a delight. I read Redeeming Love before this novel and I'm grateful for a lighter read with quick-witted characters and humorous scenes.
What I love so much about Julie's writing is her incredible ability of capturing all the senses with such vivid detail. I felt like I could smell the salt in the air along with the characters as they were conversing on the veranda. This was a really good story and I probably shouldn't express my feelings about certain parts of the book because I don't want to give the story away... but all I will say is that Julie threw me for a loop that left me with my mouth gaping. Oh, but the story definitely gets reeled in quite nicely.
Can't wait for the second book to come out. I'm curious to find out who the hero and heroine will be... I just hope there's room for Zane in the picture. I was sad there wasn't more added to his story... but I'm hopeful.
What I love so much about Julie's writing is her incredible ability of capturing all the senses with such vivid detail. I felt like I could smell the salt in the air along with the characters as they were conversing on the veranda. This was a really good story and I probably shouldn't express my feelings about certain parts of the book because I don't want to give the story away... but all I will say is that Julie threw me for a loop that left me with my mouth gaping. Oh, but the story definitely gets reeled in quite nicely.
Can't wait for the second book to come out. I'm curious to find out who the hero and heroine will be... I just hope there's room for Zane in the picture. I was sad there wasn't more added to his story... but I'm hopeful.
June 17, 2013
I loved Julie Lessman's previous novels and was so excited when I got this one...but it was like reading a whole new author (in a bad way). The storyline was forced, it took waaaay too long to resolve the main problem and the characters felt fake. She used the same phrases over and over, especially super cheesy, over-the-top Texas ones. If I had to read "hog-tied" one more time... Not to mention how many times the male characters "gritted their teeth" or "ground their jaw" or "clenched their jaw"...these guys must have permanent TMJ damage. I don't know if the author felt stuck with their characters or was feeling the pressure of starting a new series or what but needless to say, it was disappointing. I'm actually shocked at how high the ratings are!
Number one problem I had with this book: the conversion scene did not mention Jesus at all. AT ALL. You have to do more than "talk to God" for salvation--Jesus is our mediator and through his life, death, and resurrection we are saved and seen as acceptable in God's sight. This is amazing news!
Number one problem I had with this book: the conversion scene did not mention Jesus at all. AT ALL. You have to do more than "talk to God" for salvation--Jesus is our mediator and through his life, death, and resurrection we are saved and seen as acceptable in God's sight. This is amazing news!
April 16, 2013
Beware! This book is highly combustive! Be warned of flying sparks that will ignite your passion and warm your heart. Julie Lessman is no less, and by far more –(less is more) skilled than ever shaping and sculpting the clay of this story into fine porcelain. Julie’s novels are true classics in the making. By the time you finish this fantabulous story – you will understand Julie’s title, Love at Any Cost, proving it can blaze upward to expensive heights.
We all remember and love the O’Connor family in Boston, and now we enjoy being in beautiful San Francisco at the turn of the twentieth century and meet the McClare family with much unrevealed history. Prepare yourself for future shock and don’t say you weren’t warned. Julie takes you deeper into suspense and mystery than usual and you’ll be pulled in like taffy with delicious scenes of life’s trauma and drama in the life of the McClares.
Cassidy McClare, spirited personality in more ways than one, deep faith in God and gutsy in a prideful Texan cowgirl way, steps off a train in San Francisco during May, 1902 and immediately is knocked on her behind, literally by Jamie McKenna. Thus begins the story with Cassidy’s first thought “Sweet thunderation – deliver me from pretty men!” of which she has a proclivity. Cassidy, just burned when Mark her pretty boy fiancé’ in Texas broke their engagement when he learned that her family oil wells had dried up, their cattle sold, and their ranch up for auction – leaving the Texas McClare’s much less wealthy and a disadvantage to the purpose of the engagement, in Mark Chancellor’s plans.
Julie writes in vivid Technicolor, dialogue witty and humorous, evocative and eloquent and plot within plot that tantalizes ire and empathy toward characters at the same time. Ms Lessman gives each individual in the cast a definite personality with their own thoughts italicized conveniently for the reader. A great style! We were introduced to all through vast description from Rosie the housekeeper and Hadley the deaf butler, right down to Miss B the family pet parrot. Jamie McKenna is definitely a “pretty boy” who considers himself the last coke in the desert to a wealthy woman looking for love. Julie does a great piece of work with Jamie’s story.
Julie Lessman writes from her personal relationship with God. How could anyone not understand who He is from her words of praise telling of his holiness and grace? Will those prayers of the believers for the unbelievers be answered? There is true test of wills of everyone in this story that lead to miracles and big changes through prayer and faith.
You might have noticed the main storyline hasn’t been outlined in this review, in fear of inadvertently adding spoilers. I can say again to prepare for shocks and sparks flying in the last few chapters that are not the usual Julie Lessman style – at least not in prior series – and I am favorably impressed with Julie’s sparkling imagination in this novel. I hope to see more in her future writings. I’m not telling any secrets, I’ve pleasantly devoured this book and I know them all. I’m sure Miss B knows them all too, and she’s not telling!
We all remember and love the O’Connor family in Boston, and now we enjoy being in beautiful San Francisco at the turn of the twentieth century and meet the McClare family with much unrevealed history. Prepare yourself for future shock and don’t say you weren’t warned. Julie takes you deeper into suspense and mystery than usual and you’ll be pulled in like taffy with delicious scenes of life’s trauma and drama in the life of the McClares.
Cassidy McClare, spirited personality in more ways than one, deep faith in God and gutsy in a prideful Texan cowgirl way, steps off a train in San Francisco during May, 1902 and immediately is knocked on her behind, literally by Jamie McKenna. Thus begins the story with Cassidy’s first thought “Sweet thunderation – deliver me from pretty men!” of which she has a proclivity. Cassidy, just burned when Mark her pretty boy fiancé’ in Texas broke their engagement when he learned that her family oil wells had dried up, their cattle sold, and their ranch up for auction – leaving the Texas McClare’s much less wealthy and a disadvantage to the purpose of the engagement, in Mark Chancellor’s plans.
Julie writes in vivid Technicolor, dialogue witty and humorous, evocative and eloquent and plot within plot that tantalizes ire and empathy toward characters at the same time. Ms Lessman gives each individual in the cast a definite personality with their own thoughts italicized conveniently for the reader. A great style! We were introduced to all through vast description from Rosie the housekeeper and Hadley the deaf butler, right down to Miss B the family pet parrot. Jamie McKenna is definitely a “pretty boy” who considers himself the last coke in the desert to a wealthy woman looking for love. Julie does a great piece of work with Jamie’s story.
Julie Lessman writes from her personal relationship with God. How could anyone not understand who He is from her words of praise telling of his holiness and grace? Will those prayers of the believers for the unbelievers be answered? There is true test of wills of everyone in this story that lead to miracles and big changes through prayer and faith.
You might have noticed the main storyline hasn’t been outlined in this review, in fear of inadvertently adding spoilers. I can say again to prepare for shocks and sparks flying in the last few chapters that are not the usual Julie Lessman style – at least not in prior series – and I am favorably impressed with Julie’s sparkling imagination in this novel. I hope to see more in her future writings. I’m not telling any secrets, I’ve pleasantly devoured this book and I know them all. I’m sure Miss B knows them all too, and she’s not telling!
April 25, 2013
Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3GMFLIC...
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
After reading Julie Lessman's Daughters of Boston series (loved them!), A Love Surrendered, and A Light in the Window, I was looking forward to reading Love At Any Cost. I feel horrible, but I just couldn't connect to this book and found myself not wanting to continue reading at all. I finally gave up after 145 pages.
The main reason for my not finishing Love At Any Cost was the passion. I just got really annoyed with how the characters kept thinking how good looking someone was and with all the other passionate things. I'm fine with some passion, but it almost seemed to border on lust (at least to me). Here's an example of what I mean:
"His gaze traced from the curve of her neck to the hollow of her throat, and his breathing thickened at the thought of his lips doing the same." - Page 144
I also found myself not caring about the characters (in fact, Cassidy kind of annoyed me) or what was going to happen with them.
I've read other bloggers' reviews and it seems like a lot of people LOVED this book, so please don't go by just my opinion.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book 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.*
Review on my blog: http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
After reading Julie Lessman's Daughters of Boston series (loved them!), A Love Surrendered, and A Light in the Window, I was looking forward to reading Love At Any Cost. I feel horrible, but I just couldn't connect to this book and found myself not wanting to continue reading at all. I finally gave up after 145 pages.
The main reason for my not finishing Love At Any Cost was the passion. I just got really annoyed with how the characters kept thinking how good looking someone was and with all the other passionate things. I'm fine with some passion, but it almost seemed to border on lust (at least to me). Here's an example of what I mean:
"His gaze traced from the curve of her neck to the hollow of her throat, and his breathing thickened at the thought of his lips doing the same." - Page 144
I also found myself not caring about the characters (in fact, Cassidy kind of annoyed me) or what was going to happen with them.
I've read other bloggers' reviews and it seems like a lot of people LOVED this book, so please don't go by just my opinion.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book 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.*
March 17, 2015
Even though Julie Lessman puts in too many details for my taste, I know I'm going to become engrossed in her characters and come to care for them as if they were my own friends. I've never been disappointed by any of her novels, and Love at Any Cost is no exception. The pains and dashed dreams felt real, and the fight for hope to stay alive while wrestling with the reality of the heartbreaks was as real as the struggle for the main character to figure out what God wanted from her. I love this McClare family that Mrs. Lessman has introduced us to and would be delighted to pick up the rest of the books in this series.
December 19, 2020
*Warnings*
#1 This is a long review, so pull up a chair and grab a bowl of popcorn. You'll be here awhile. #2 When I read a review, I want substantial information. So I will not skimp on the details. Which will mean some spoilers, so watch out. #3--additional warning reserved only for this review--this is a copy-and-paste from a blog post of mine, so I've included a summary, which I never do, and the flow/format is a little different. For more of my thoughts about this book/series, check out my post!
Four and a half stars
San Francisco, California
Year 1902
Cassidy McClare has been burned by a wealthy "pretty boy" before--and boy, was it bad! Mark Chancellor, the "rat" that broke her heart, is in fact the very reason why she's made the journey from her home of Texas to her aunt and uncle's in Frisco. Being with her cousins, lively Allison, tenderhearted Meg, fun-loving Maddie, and charming Blake, promises laughter, sunshine, and the easing of her heartache--and a position teaching at her aunt Cait's Hand of Hope school for the girls of Barbary.
There's just one teensy, tiny problem: a very "big" pretty boy by the name of Jamie MacKenna.
So, this sounds pretty familiar, doesn't? Ever heard of Shannon O'Brein, teacher from South Georgia who'd been burned by a handsome playboy? Or, maybe the name Sam Cunningham strikes a cord--you know, Shan's brother's best friend, a heartbreaker just like her ex? (A heartbreaker who is also very adorable in his charming little boy way and full of love and a trepidation of his own?) Well, I couldn't help but shake my head and laugh at how much Love at Any Cost reminded me of Love Everlasting. The "innocent" flirting between Jamie and Cassie, the tentative "friendship" they attempted, the woman that stood in the way of their future, the feelings of betrayal they both felt...oh, yeah. That had Isle of Hope written all. over. it.
So, yes, I loved this book in the same way I loved Love Everlasting. It was a walk on a tightrope, wondering whether or not the hero's intentions were true, watching as they teetered between friends, enemies, and something more, praying that when the truth came out that their relationship would remain intact (and knowing it wouldn't). Having the addition of Logan and Cait's tentative romance moved the story along, quite like Tess and Ben's in the Isle of Hope series.
That being said, it was easy to tell which couple Julie liked the most out of all five of the series--Logan and Cait. She poured a little more passion, a little more heart, a little more drama into their relationship, not unlike Libby and Finn's in Love's Silver Lining. I have to say, I was, at times, more intrigued by Logan and Cait's story than I was Jamie and Cassie's. And here's why...
These two characters fell a wee bit flat. All right, Jamie had a lot going for him--boyish good looks and a boatload of charm. No, wait. I meant conflict and depth within his immediate person and external relationships and circumstances. But...he felt too much like Sam, in some ways, so I had a hard time differentiating Jamie from not just Sam but also the feeling that he was a sort of repeat--a cliche, if you will. And this is something that has happened before with Julie Lessman's novels. She doesn't really use set cliches and archetypes from other works--she invents her own, and since they work so well, she keeps using them. I mean, you have the big brother figure and the "sister" romance, right? But once Julie gets a hold of it, it's a story all its own...which means every nuance she placed into the concept is reimplemented into other stories based on that same idea. *sighs, realizing she sounds more like a college professor than a book reviewer* More on that later.
Cassie, on the other hand, wasn't like Julie's other characters--since she was a "cowgirl." By definition, she should have been a lot of fun--wild, a little crass, uncomfortable in high society. And yet, she wasn't any of those things. Perhaps because of her father's upbringing in high society, she wasn't unaccustomed to it...but all the mentions of being disdained by high society and not fitting in and being tomboyish and hanging out with Indians more than wealthy whites made me wish that Cassie was a little more cowgirl-ish than she was. She lacked the ommph characters like Charity, Katie, and Gabe O'Connor and Cat O'Brien possessed. Both she and Jamie had a lot of potential that wasn't fully tapped.
Which is why it didn't get five stars.
Now, as a book, author name aside, I think Love at Any Cost moved along very smoothly, all but for the matter of betrayal toward the end, which I think could have been handled in a more deft manner to provide the conflict Jamie and Cassie's relationship needed--a sort of conflict that would have to do with name calling and object throwing and maybe a forceful kiss or two. The setting of San Francisco could have been touched on a little more, with different characters thrown in and more, well, more objectivity.
Had this been written by an author I didn't know so well, I would've had a lot more to say about it...but it was written by Julie Lessman, and I know she writes VERY character-driven novels, more so than mine, that focus more on dialogue, emotion, aura, and spirituality than plot, two thousand secondary characters, and a heap of action. She selects a handful of colorful characters, a building or two in which to set the greater portion of her story, and a key point--a moral of the story, if you will--and pours her heart and soul into it, coloring cardboard characters with bright hues of scarlet and lush green and violet and gold, masterly using wit and her characters' often crotchety personality to make you laugh, and cultivating a garden that quickly blossoms with a drizzle of rain and a load of sunshine.
So, yes, Love at Any Cost was not my favorite of hers. For once, I wished that she had abandoned her tiny garden and planted a field, branching off into the big city and the high society in a way that the close-knit O'Connors simply can't. It would have been different, and in a good way, but somehow, Love at Any Cost still managed to retain that warm, cozy feeling, even in Frisco. I think, for a reader willing to take a chance, you can easily see all of Julie's signature "moves" at work in this entire series.
BookWorm
#1 This is a long review, so pull up a chair and grab a bowl of popcorn. You'll be here awhile. #2 When I read a review, I want substantial information. So I will not skimp on the details. Which will mean some spoilers, so watch out. #3--additional warning reserved only for this review--this is a copy-and-paste from a blog post of mine, so I've included a summary, which I never do, and the flow/format is a little different. For more of my thoughts about this book/series, check out my post!
Four and a half stars
San Francisco, California
Year 1902
Cassidy McClare has been burned by a wealthy "pretty boy" before--and boy, was it bad! Mark Chancellor, the "rat" that broke her heart, is in fact the very reason why she's made the journey from her home of Texas to her aunt and uncle's in Frisco. Being with her cousins, lively Allison, tenderhearted Meg, fun-loving Maddie, and charming Blake, promises laughter, sunshine, and the easing of her heartache--and a position teaching at her aunt Cait's Hand of Hope school for the girls of Barbary.
There's just one teensy, tiny problem: a very "big" pretty boy by the name of Jamie MacKenna.
So, this sounds pretty familiar, doesn't? Ever heard of Shannon O'Brein, teacher from South Georgia who'd been burned by a handsome playboy? Or, maybe the name Sam Cunningham strikes a cord--you know, Shan's brother's best friend, a heartbreaker just like her ex? (A heartbreaker who is also very adorable in his charming little boy way and full of love and a trepidation of his own?) Well, I couldn't help but shake my head and laugh at how much Love at Any Cost reminded me of Love Everlasting. The "innocent" flirting between Jamie and Cassie, the tentative "friendship" they attempted, the woman that stood in the way of their future, the feelings of betrayal they both felt...oh, yeah. That had Isle of Hope written all. over. it.
So, yes, I loved this book in the same way I loved Love Everlasting. It was a walk on a tightrope, wondering whether or not the hero's intentions were true, watching as they teetered between friends, enemies, and something more, praying that when the truth came out that their relationship would remain intact (and knowing it wouldn't). Having the addition of Logan and Cait's tentative romance moved the story along, quite like Tess and Ben's in the Isle of Hope series.
That being said, it was easy to tell which couple Julie liked the most out of all five of the series--Logan and Cait. She poured a little more passion, a little more heart, a little more drama into their relationship, not unlike Libby and Finn's in Love's Silver Lining. I have to say, I was, at times, more intrigued by Logan and Cait's story than I was Jamie and Cassie's. And here's why...
These two characters fell a wee bit flat. All right, Jamie had a lot going for him--boyish good looks and a boatload of charm. No, wait. I meant conflict and depth within his immediate person and external relationships and circumstances. But...he felt too much like Sam, in some ways, so I had a hard time differentiating Jamie from not just Sam but also the feeling that he was a sort of repeat--a cliche, if you will. And this is something that has happened before with Julie Lessman's novels. She doesn't really use set cliches and archetypes from other works--she invents her own, and since they work so well, she keeps using them. I mean, you have the big brother figure and the "sister" romance, right? But once Julie gets a hold of it, it's a story all its own...which means every nuance she placed into the concept is reimplemented into other stories based on that same idea. *sighs, realizing she sounds more like a college professor than a book reviewer* More on that later.
Cassie, on the other hand, wasn't like Julie's other characters--since she was a "cowgirl." By definition, she should have been a lot of fun--wild, a little crass, uncomfortable in high society. And yet, she wasn't any of those things. Perhaps because of her father's upbringing in high society, she wasn't unaccustomed to it...but all the mentions of being disdained by high society and not fitting in and being tomboyish and hanging out with Indians more than wealthy whites made me wish that Cassie was a little more cowgirl-ish than she was. She lacked the ommph characters like Charity, Katie, and Gabe O'Connor and Cat O'Brien possessed. Both she and Jamie had a lot of potential that wasn't fully tapped.
Which is why it didn't get five stars.
Now, as a book, author name aside, I think Love at Any Cost moved along very smoothly, all but for the matter of betrayal toward the end, which I think could have been handled in a more deft manner to provide the conflict Jamie and Cassie's relationship needed--a sort of conflict that would have to do with name calling and object throwing and maybe a forceful kiss or two. The setting of San Francisco could have been touched on a little more, with different characters thrown in and more, well, more objectivity.
Had this been written by an author I didn't know so well, I would've had a lot more to say about it...but it was written by Julie Lessman, and I know she writes VERY character-driven novels, more so than mine, that focus more on dialogue, emotion, aura, and spirituality than plot, two thousand secondary characters, and a heap of action. She selects a handful of colorful characters, a building or two in which to set the greater portion of her story, and a key point--a moral of the story, if you will--and pours her heart and soul into it, coloring cardboard characters with bright hues of scarlet and lush green and violet and gold, masterly using wit and her characters' often crotchety personality to make you laugh, and cultivating a garden that quickly blossoms with a drizzle of rain and a load of sunshine.
So, yes, Love at Any Cost was not my favorite of hers. For once, I wished that she had abandoned her tiny garden and planted a field, branching off into the big city and the high society in a way that the close-knit O'Connors simply can't. It would have been different, and in a good way, but somehow, Love at Any Cost still managed to retain that warm, cozy feeling, even in Frisco. I think, for a reader willing to take a chance, you can easily see all of Julie's signature "moves" at work in this entire series.
BookWorm
February 18, 2020
When it comes to Julie Lessman I already know that I'm going to have a book on my permanent keeper shelf. Now I know that I put some thoughts about this one already down on paper somewhere, but I cannot seem to find them. So hopefully I can repeat the good of what I've said (or dreamed that I thought) before. When I think Julie, I think Boston and that wonderful Irish family. But this is an entirely different story, a different kind of story in a very different location. The characters are different, their problems are pretty different. Backgrounds are different and futures are different. Goodness, even the timeframe is different. So, the question is, when Julie can pull off such a wonderful series (well two connected series over seven books!) can she do it again when it is all so different? You bet-ch-a!
Jamie makes me so mad that I could spit. Ugh. Smack that boy. His pride is soo... it's his ego. He's just blind. Ignorant. Irritating! But my goodness is he sparkingly attractive. Yes in the description and reaction of the ladies that pass him by, but you should see the boy in the movie trailer. Woo. I just want to throttle him. Now, Cassie. She reminds me a bit of a Deeanne Gist heroine. Now, while I typically love Dee's stories and books overall her independent creatures that protagonize the stories often drive me bonkers. Cassie and Cait while I'm at it are so... what is it that I'm trying to say... they're such amazing independent and so vulnerable. Goodness gracious me, they are so real and remind me so much of me (minus the independent streak that I sometimes wish I had) that it drives me bonkers! Goodness, I said bonkers twice (now three times!) in one paragraph. My point is that Julie is bringing text on a page to life in something that I can truly imagine. Male and female.
The other thing is that as a reader I know how I want the story to end... I know how the story should end. But reading in the situation, how can it POSSIBLY end in the correct way. Goodness gracious does Julie have a way with a pen!
*Thanks to Revell Books for providing a copy for review.*
posted: http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2...
Jamie makes me so mad that I could spit. Ugh. Smack that boy. His pride is soo... it's his ego. He's just blind. Ignorant. Irritating! But my goodness is he sparkingly attractive. Yes in the description and reaction of the ladies that pass him by, but you should see the boy in the movie trailer. Woo. I just want to throttle him. Now, Cassie. She reminds me a bit of a Deeanne Gist heroine. Now, while I typically love Dee's stories and books overall her independent creatures that protagonize the stories often drive me bonkers. Cassie and Cait while I'm at it are so... what is it that I'm trying to say... they're such amazing independent and so vulnerable. Goodness gracious me, they are so real and remind me so much of me (minus the independent streak that I sometimes wish I had) that it drives me bonkers! Goodness, I said bonkers twice (now three times!) in one paragraph. My point is that Julie is bringing text on a page to life in something that I can truly imagine. Male and female.
The other thing is that as a reader I know how I want the story to end... I know how the story should end. But reading in the situation, how can it POSSIBLY end in the correct way. Goodness gracious does Julie have a way with a pen!
*Thanks to Revell Books for providing a copy for review.*
posted: http://creativemadnessmama.com/blog/2...
April 20, 2013
This novel had a classic Lessman feel to it. The story structure and the characterization of the rogue vs. the good girl reminded me of at least one book in each of this author's two prior series. Readers who enjoy witty humor will find this story entertaining. Readers who get frustrated with the push-pull of the romance and the need for constant forgiveness might struggle with it.
I smile every time I read one of the author's new books because I know what to expect. This author has a clear brand and it guarantees a faith thread, the theme of loving God first and foremost, the struggle with the flesh (includes lots of sizzle) and a trust vs. betrayal theme. In the end, the "all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose" theme tends to wrap up at the conclusion.
People who need to be reminded of human frailty and how God is the only trustworthy person out there will eat these books up. Life is full of hurt, misunderstandings, and selfish actions. This novel is a pretty good representation of that. People who want to believe that people are basically good and have honorable motives in all situations might be offended by the reality of this story. At least Love at Any Cost is similar to real life in all of it's highs and lows. It's a great reminder of how to prioritize things and line them up according to God's plan.
I've read all of Lessman's books to date. I can't say this is a favorite, but I did enjoy it very much. I have a feeling readers will fall just as in love with the McClares as they did with the O'Connors. There is just something endearing about that Irish cultural thread that wins her fans over every time.
I smile every time I read one of the author's new books because I know what to expect. This author has a clear brand and it guarantees a faith thread, the theme of loving God first and foremost, the struggle with the flesh (includes lots of sizzle) and a trust vs. betrayal theme. In the end, the "all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose" theme tends to wrap up at the conclusion.
People who need to be reminded of human frailty and how God is the only trustworthy person out there will eat these books up. Life is full of hurt, misunderstandings, and selfish actions. This novel is a pretty good representation of that. People who want to believe that people are basically good and have honorable motives in all situations might be offended by the reality of this story. At least Love at Any Cost is similar to real life in all of it's highs and lows. It's a great reminder of how to prioritize things and line them up according to God's plan.
I've read all of Lessman's books to date. I can't say this is a favorite, but I did enjoy it very much. I have a feeling readers will fall just as in love with the McClares as they did with the O'Connors. There is just something endearing about that Irish cultural thread that wins her fans over every time.
August 16, 2014
Cassidy McClare has had her fill of pretty boys. After being jilted by her fortune-hunting, pretty-boy fiancé, she skedaddles out of Texas and heads west to San Francisco, with the intention of starting fresh. Unfortunately, she starts out by running into--or rather being run into by pretty-boy Jamie MacKenna.
Jamie is on the lookout for opportunity. The chance to prove that being an illegitimate son of the Barbary Coast will never define him. The chance to gain political power and use it for good to help those people still trapped in San Francisco’s worst section of town. And most of all, the chance to relieve his sister’s agony by winning her access to the surgery that will fix her injured hip.
When he crashes into Cassidy McClare, he thinks all his dreams have been answered in one spectacularly loveable--and marriageable--package. But what he doesn’t know is that Cassidy’s father’s oil wells have come up spectacularly dry.
Love at Any Cost introduces a new family and a new era for author, Julie Lessman. I enjoyed the depiction of 1901 San Francisco. (Loved that she included the amazing San Francisco water park!) But most of all, I loved Jamie. While all the other main characters—his friends and business cohorts—come from privilege, his dilemma of facing off against the real challenges of poverty rang true.
Jamie is on the lookout for opportunity. The chance to prove that being an illegitimate son of the Barbary Coast will never define him. The chance to gain political power and use it for good to help those people still trapped in San Francisco’s worst section of town. And most of all, the chance to relieve his sister’s agony by winning her access to the surgery that will fix her injured hip.
When he crashes into Cassidy McClare, he thinks all his dreams have been answered in one spectacularly loveable--and marriageable--package. But what he doesn’t know is that Cassidy’s father’s oil wells have come up spectacularly dry.
Love at Any Cost introduces a new family and a new era for author, Julie Lessman. I enjoyed the depiction of 1901 San Francisco. (Loved that she included the amazing San Francisco water park!) But most of all, I loved Jamie. While all the other main characters—his friends and business cohorts—come from privilege, his dilemma of facing off against the real challenges of poverty rang true.
April 23, 2013
So wonderful to be able to dig into a new Julie Lessman series and “meet” her new characters and delve into a new story line.
Cassidy McClare is a funny little gal from Texas. Thankfully Julie can write spunky well—sometimes it comes off as silly when other authors do so. I think it is very difficult to write this type of character and pull it off but Julie does.
Julie Lessman fans will LOVE this book! And I think she will gather an entire new group of admirers with this series, set in SanFrancisco at the turn of the century. Love the little historic details about the area at that time.
Wonderful Voice: positive , perky, hopeful voice underlies the novel but there is more than enough tension. (I've had my fill of depressed author voices lately!)
Well balanced Storyline: Lovely with a great twist at the end.
Awesome Characterization: This is Julie Lessman after all—need I say more?
June 5, 2019
Something about the storyline- put me off. I couldn't continue reading it after 15%.
August 27, 2017
*Note: This review is from my original posting in March of 2014, which can be found here:http://cafinatedreads.com/book-review.... My thoughts are still the same, my emotions are still the same as the first time I read it!*
Sweet Saints above, Ms. Lessman has done it again!!! Next to Karen Kingsbury, she is absolutely positively my absolute favorite Christian Fiction author. I love her work! Her characters (my favorite is Katie from A Hope Undaunted!) steal you away to their time and place and sweep you into their mix for a time. I laugh, I cry, I smile through all her books and her characters……well, they are chiseled absolutely perfectly for their stories!
Oh my! Cassidy was absolute a breath of fresh air! I loved the phrases she used through out the story. Ms. Lessman used phrases my granddaddy used to use before he passed away years ago, it brought back so many memories for me! And her heart, bless her, she just wanted to let go of her broken engagement from a gold digger and move on with becoming a teacher in a new place. I laughed at her and wanted to wrap her up and squeeze her tight!
And Jamie McKenna……oh sweet lawdy, I loved him! Can we say *drool*??? That is one fine man….err, um. Yes, back to my review. Jamie is a wonderful man and I saw it from the start! He was made out to be a womanizer but I could just tell that deep down, he was a tenderhearted, one woman man. Yes sirree I did indeed see it! Ms. Lessman did a wonderful job with his creation and I didn’t want to say goodbye to him, especially as I started watching him pursue Ms. Cassidy.
I can’t give this book anything less than 5 stars! It would be an utter disgrace to do so! Ms. Lessman combined laugh out loud laughter, spark flying romance (clean, of course!), and a setting to sweep you off your feet! I highly, hats-off, two thumbs up, the whole shebang, recommend this start to a fabulous series by Ms. Lessman!This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads
Sweet Saints above, Ms. Lessman has done it again!!! Next to Karen Kingsbury, she is absolutely positively my absolute favorite Christian Fiction author. I love her work! Her characters (my favorite is Katie from A Hope Undaunted!) steal you away to their time and place and sweep you into their mix for a time. I laugh, I cry, I smile through all her books and her characters……well, they are chiseled absolutely perfectly for their stories!
Oh my! Cassidy was absolute a breath of fresh air! I loved the phrases she used through out the story. Ms. Lessman used phrases my granddaddy used to use before he passed away years ago, it brought back so many memories for me! And her heart, bless her, she just wanted to let go of her broken engagement from a gold digger and move on with becoming a teacher in a new place. I laughed at her and wanted to wrap her up and squeeze her tight!
And Jamie McKenna……oh sweet lawdy, I loved him! Can we say *drool*??? That is one fine man….err, um. Yes, back to my review. Jamie is a wonderful man and I saw it from the start! He was made out to be a womanizer but I could just tell that deep down, he was a tenderhearted, one woman man. Yes sirree I did indeed see it! Ms. Lessman did a wonderful job with his creation and I didn’t want to say goodbye to him, especially as I started watching him pursue Ms. Cassidy.
I can’t give this book anything less than 5 stars! It would be an utter disgrace to do so! Ms. Lessman combined laugh out loud laughter, spark flying romance (clean, of course!), and a setting to sweep you off your feet! I highly, hats-off, two thumbs up, the whole shebang, recommend this start to a fabulous series by Ms. Lessman!This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads
April 20, 2013
Cassidy McClare leaves her family's Texas ranch for a visit with her cousins in San Francisco to recover from her broken heart. She's done with men. Especially "pretty boy fortune hunters." Jamie McKenna is a poor young man who has worked hard to pull himself and his family up from the slums of the city. He's best friends with Cassie's cousin Blake. When the two meet, sparks fly. Cassie doesn't know that Jamie wants to marry an heiress. She just knows that she's fallen for the "pretty boy pole-cat." Jamie doesn't know that Cassie's not an oil heiress. When he finds out, will he break Cassie's heart or decide that love is more important than money?
I was so sad to see the O'Connor saga come to an end because I'd grown to love that family. With Julie Lessman's newest book, the reader is introduced to a new family, the McClares. The first pages had me laughing and before I knew it, Jamie McKenna had slipped into my favorite hero spot of Julie's books that had been held by Stephen O'Connor and Collin McGuire. Feisty and fun, I loved this book. I loved the fact that Cassie set rules for her courtship with Jamie and that Jamie actually followed them. The moment that Jamie realized that everything he had worked for really wasn't done on his own, but from God and seeing Jamie's surrender was very touching. I am eagerly waiting for the next book in this series.
I received this book for free from the publisher, Revell Books, for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Julie Lessman, Colleen Coble, Mary Connealy, Laura Frantz, Karen Witemeyer, Jody Hedlund, and historical fiction.
Available April 2013 at your local bookstore from Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
Rating - 5 stars
I was so sad to see the O'Connor saga come to an end because I'd grown to love that family. With Julie Lessman's newest book, the reader is introduced to a new family, the McClares. The first pages had me laughing and before I knew it, Jamie McKenna had slipped into my favorite hero spot of Julie's books that had been held by Stephen O'Connor and Collin McGuire. Feisty and fun, I loved this book. I loved the fact that Cassie set rules for her courtship with Jamie and that Jamie actually followed them. The moment that Jamie realized that everything he had worked for really wasn't done on his own, but from God and seeing Jamie's surrender was very touching. I am eagerly waiting for the next book in this series.
I received this book for free from the publisher, Revell Books, for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Julie Lessman, Colleen Coble, Mary Connealy, Laura Frantz, Karen Witemeyer, Jody Hedlund, and historical fiction.
Available April 2013 at your local bookstore from Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
Rating - 5 stars
January 7, 2014
I was a little hesitant to start this series because I didn't think that it could stand up to my expectations from Julie's past series that I loved so much. Their was so much depth in the characters, especially after reading book after book about the same people. It got to where I felt connected to them, like I actually KNEW them. That's what Julie is great at-- developing characters until they actually feel like your family.
Cassie and Jamie were such interesting characters to read about, and Julie threw in so many spins and turns that I had no idea what was going to happen in the end, and BOY was a surprised! She is so good at infuriating me over the decisions her characters make, but some how she sneaks her way back in as one of my favorite authors by the end. I never find a flaw in her writing, no matter how tangled up things end up being. And yes, Their is a lot of heartbreak, to the point where sometimes I thought I couldn't finish, but trust me, it's worth it in the end!
I love how she writes passionate books, but still has plenty soul searching for me and the characters. I learn so much, about how to: forgive, forget, repent, cherish... so on and so forth. Best of all, I love how her books focus on God and the family at the top of her important list. That's where they SHOULD be!
On top of this, I unexpectedly found Dare to Love Again, the second book, in my mail today!!! I found out that the second book is about the same family, so there will be more character development! Cassie and Jamie are not gone from my heart, they are here to stay!
Visit my blog at: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com/
Cassie and Jamie were such interesting characters to read about, and Julie threw in so many spins and turns that I had no idea what was going to happen in the end, and BOY was a surprised! She is so good at infuriating me over the decisions her characters make, but some how she sneaks her way back in as one of my favorite authors by the end. I never find a flaw in her writing, no matter how tangled up things end up being. And yes, Their is a lot of heartbreak, to the point where sometimes I thought I couldn't finish, but trust me, it's worth it in the end!
I love how she writes passionate books, but still has plenty soul searching for me and the characters. I learn so much, about how to: forgive, forget, repent, cherish... so on and so forth. Best of all, I love how her books focus on God and the family at the top of her important list. That's where they SHOULD be!
On top of this, I unexpectedly found Dare to Love Again, the second book, in my mail today!!! I found out that the second book is about the same family, so there will be more character development! Cassie and Jamie are not gone from my heart, they are here to stay!
Visit my blog at: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com/
October 1, 2015
DNF because... PUKE! GAG! SCREAM! I HATE books where the so-called hero/love interest forces himself on the lady to "prove" she's attracted to him. That is seriously scary and dangerous. Any man who thinks any form of unwanted attention is ok as long as it's done in a flirting manner is a jerk and no one I'd want to associate with. The love interest in this book forces several kisses on the main character while she screams, hits, and kicks him... And this happens immediately after she tells him in a clear and polite way that she is not interested in him because she just had her heart broken. I am not going to read any more. I don't care if he ends up redeeming himself. I don't like the message it sends to the women who will end up reading this story. Because this is a Christian romance, I can predict that the man will change and humble himself and they will fall in love and live happily ever after. But too many women stay in abusive and manipulative relationships where they are not respected or safe. I shudder to think some young woman would read this and think that it would be romantic to have a handsome young man force himself on her.
Ugh... I just feel sick after reading that chapter.
Two minutes later... Argh! I don't know why but I read the next two pages after the disgusting kiss chapter and it gets even worse. Her cousin thinks it's flattering that he forced himself on her and that Cassie, the main character, is at fault because she's "too pretty" (and that's a direct quote.) If this were a physical book instead of a digital one, I'd burn it.
Ugh... I just feel sick after reading that chapter.
Two minutes later... Argh! I don't know why but I read the next two pages after the disgusting kiss chapter and it gets even worse. Her cousin thinks it's flattering that he forced himself on her and that Cassie, the main character, is at fault because she's "too pretty" (and that's a direct quote.) If this were a physical book instead of a digital one, I'd burn it.
April 19, 2013
Why must we long for the love we can't have?
Dumped once already by a fortune-hunting charmer, Cassie McClare is determined never to fall for a pretty-boy ever again, but then she meets Jamie Mackenna...
Jamie Mackenna is a young man who grew up on the Barbary Coast, working by the sweat of his brow for everything he's ever had, his deepest desire is to see his crippled sister walk without pain. But in order to pay for the surgery, he needs money and clout, both of which he can gain by marrying well...
Sparks fly in typical Julie Lessman fashion, in her newest romantic read. I loved watching the characters grow in their faith, as they were tested by the direction of their hearts treading in dangerous territory.
When I started this book, I didn't think that I'd even like Jamie, but by the end he'd wormed his way into my afffections. It will be fun to meet the various other family members in books to come. Unlike the O'Connor Saga, this book was more of a romance the whole way through, without as much historical drama being played out in the backround.
Overall, I enjoyed this fun read, though at times I questioned if maybe Cassie was playing with fire a bit more than she should have, though I admired her resolve to only marry someone who shared her faith. The start of an intriguing saga :)
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Dumped once already by a fortune-hunting charmer, Cassie McClare is determined never to fall for a pretty-boy ever again, but then she meets Jamie Mackenna...
Jamie Mackenna is a young man who grew up on the Barbary Coast, working by the sweat of his brow for everything he's ever had, his deepest desire is to see his crippled sister walk without pain. But in order to pay for the surgery, he needs money and clout, both of which he can gain by marrying well...
Sparks fly in typical Julie Lessman fashion, in her newest romantic read. I loved watching the characters grow in their faith, as they were tested by the direction of their hearts treading in dangerous territory.
When I started this book, I didn't think that I'd even like Jamie, but by the end he'd wormed his way into my afffections. It will be fun to meet the various other family members in books to come. Unlike the O'Connor Saga, this book was more of a romance the whole way through, without as much historical drama being played out in the backround.
Overall, I enjoyed this fun read, though at times I questioned if maybe Cassie was playing with fire a bit more than she should have, though I admired her resolve to only marry someone who shared her faith. The start of an intriguing saga :)
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
April 16, 2013
I adored Julie's series' about the O'Connor family. Adored it. I was thrilled to learn that she had a new series out and was delighted to see it set in San Francisco. As a Bay Area native, I love San Francisco as a setting, in any time period.
While I liked Love at Any Cost, I didn't love it. It took awhile to get into it and I really didn't like Jamie or Cassidy. I grew weary of exclamations, "Sweet, soul saving mercy!", "sweet Texas tea!" as well as the phrase "pretty boy" which grew cliched.
As with her previous book though, Julie Lessman has a wonderful way of writing about the passion in relationships and that is often absent from Christian novels. Nonetheless, Jamie's attempts at always taking liberties with Cassidy and his selfishness and willingness to throw away love for money did not endear him to me.
I loved the McClare family, however, and I look forward to learning more about them in future stories. I'm certain that Logan and Caitlyn's story is by no means finished, nor is Caitlyn's quest to eliminate the tawdry and depraved Barbary Coast.
Mild editing complaint: the summary on the back of the book spells Jamie's last name as McKenna. In the book itself, Jamie's name is spelled MacKenna. That is a careless mistake.
While I liked Love at Any Cost, I didn't love it. It took awhile to get into it and I really didn't like Jamie or Cassidy. I grew weary of exclamations, "Sweet, soul saving mercy!", "sweet Texas tea!" as well as the phrase "pretty boy" which grew cliched.
As with her previous book though, Julie Lessman has a wonderful way of writing about the passion in relationships and that is often absent from Christian novels. Nonetheless, Jamie's attempts at always taking liberties with Cassidy and his selfishness and willingness to throw away love for money did not endear him to me.
I loved the McClare family, however, and I look forward to learning more about them in future stories. I'm certain that Logan and Caitlyn's story is by no means finished, nor is Caitlyn's quest to eliminate the tawdry and depraved Barbary Coast.
Mild editing complaint: the summary on the back of the book spells Jamie's last name as McKenna. In the book itself, Jamie's name is spelled MacKenna. That is a careless mistake.
April 21, 2013
Perhaps one of my favorite parts of Lessman's books are hows he weaves historical fact into fiction. This book does not disappoint. San Francisco comes to life and you'll be instantly transported. Lessman also write very real characters who are likable. Cassidy is spunky and a spit-fire. Jamie is a typical Lessman man, he has roguish good looks, struggles in his relationships, and has secrets. Of course he opens up and changes through this book. Call me crazy but I found myself feeling a bit "over" the typical man that Lessman writes. I had a hard time getting into the book and found myself frustrated with the shallowness of the characters. One could argue that that's real characterization but I found it to be a bit tired. Overall, this is an enjoyable read and a very typical read for fans of Lessman. I look forward to her possibly branching out into different kinds of characters at some point.
April 16, 2013
I grew quite attached to the O'Connor family in Lessman's Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series, so I wasn't sure I could develop the same bond to a new cast of characters in this new kick-off to the Heart of San Francisco series. I need not have worried! Love At Any Cost is both refreshing and rich, with a spunky heroine and heart-warming hero, laugh-out-loud humor and plot twists that will keep you turning pages til you reach "The End" with a contented sigh. Lovers of Christian romance novels can't go wrong with a Julie Lessman title.
~Jocelyn Green, author of Wedded to War
~Jocelyn Green, author of Wedded to War
February 27, 2018
Just a couple of chapters in, the full-of-himself Jamie assaults Cassie, forcibly kissing her against her will, assuming he will prove that she is attracted to him. I can only assume from the back cover that she will fall in love with him anyway. Seriously? Is this the message we want to give to young women w ho read Christian fiction? I won't be finishing this book.
March 1, 2023
Enjoyable historical fiction romance set in San Francisco in 1902. Cassidy McClare, a Texas cowgirl through and through, goes out to visit her cousins, aunts and uncle in San Francisco. She has earned a teacher's certificate and plans to teach in the school her aunt is opening along with her cousin. A close friend of one and her cousins, Jamie MacKenna, immediately has feelings for her. But Cassidy had just been burned by a "pretty boy" and is not ready to start any new relationship especially with another man who does not have a strong faith.
With many twists and turns, Lessman takes the reader through many emotions as several of the family learn secrets that have been hidden for many years which involve family members.
With many twists and turns, Lessman takes the reader through many emotions as several of the family learn secrets that have been hidden for many years which involve family members.
April 4, 2023
It seemed like too much kissing for those times, but eventually the story picked up and it was a good plot.
April 15, 2013
My thoughts: Travel back to San Francisco of 1902 - just 110 years ago - and visit still vibrant landmarks of the city that still stand and you can still enjoy. I've dined in the Cliff House, seen the trolleys, visited the Embarquadero, whiffed the fragrant salt air, seen the bay. San Francisco is a beautiful and memorable place to visit or live. That is if you have the funds to do so. Living in San Francisco in 1902 as a pauper along the Barbary Coast was to live a condemned life itself. The hero of our story, Jamie, was born to an unwed mother and spent his early years living along the Barbary Coast. A determined boy, his goal was to scrabble his way out of poverty and into a life of the privileged along Nob Hill. And so he did. As our story begins, he has completed his schooling and has a degree in law. He is pals with two young men with connections to one of the most wealthy and influential families in San Francisco. At this point in his life he is seeking a wife amongst the wealthy with political connections. He plans to make it to Nob Hill.
The McClare clan has cousins political connections, money, and a matriarchal head (Caitlyn) who is the widow of a McClare brother. Another McClare brother, Logan, is now the patriarchal head and an influential attorney in the City. Jamie is now a fledgling member of Logan's law firm.
Upon this scene, a McClare cousin from Texas visits. Cassidy is a spunky, God loving, young woman who is recovering from being spurned by a young man in Texas who leaves her when he finds out that her father's oil wells have gone dry. And Cassidy is all tomboy cowgirl!
Julie Lessman has woven a delectable story of power and poverty, of people and privilege. The characters are true to life, interesting, and captivating to the reader. Jamie is a young man that drives for what he wants - marriage to privilege, power, and prestige. He passionately woes Cassidy (a bit too passionately for my taste). Cassidy keeps pushing him to distance himself (arms distance) and just stay "friends." No "courtship" until Jamie turns his heart and life over to God and becomes a man of faith. This is primary to Cassidy in her standard for marriage. She refuses to marry a man whose heart does not belong to God so they can share their faith.
Not all goes well because assumptions prevail as to the wealth of each character. But when the truth is out, the story takes on another twist. However, the twist at the end is even more intriguing than I could imagine.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and enjoyed traipsing along San Francisco and environs. I would prefer a bit less in the passion department. For Christian fiction, I think we can have characters who don't grope, snuggle, or kiss each other so passionately. The story was very good. I'd love to read more in "The Heart of San Francisco" series, but I would encourage Julie Lessman to tone down the passion a bit.
DISCLOSURE: I was given a complimentary copy of Love at Any Cost in exchange for my honest re view by Revell a Division of Baker Publishing Group. Opinions expressed are solely my own. Book synopsis was taken from the Revell website.
The McClare clan has cousins political connections, money, and a matriarchal head (Caitlyn) who is the widow of a McClare brother. Another McClare brother, Logan, is now the patriarchal head and an influential attorney in the City. Jamie is now a fledgling member of Logan's law firm.
Upon this scene, a McClare cousin from Texas visits. Cassidy is a spunky, God loving, young woman who is recovering from being spurned by a young man in Texas who leaves her when he finds out that her father's oil wells have gone dry. And Cassidy is all tomboy cowgirl!
Julie Lessman has woven a delectable story of power and poverty, of people and privilege. The characters are true to life, interesting, and captivating to the reader. Jamie is a young man that drives for what he wants - marriage to privilege, power, and prestige. He passionately woes Cassidy (a bit too passionately for my taste). Cassidy keeps pushing him to distance himself (arms distance) and just stay "friends." No "courtship" until Jamie turns his heart and life over to God and becomes a man of faith. This is primary to Cassidy in her standard for marriage. She refuses to marry a man whose heart does not belong to God so they can share their faith.
Not all goes well because assumptions prevail as to the wealth of each character. But when the truth is out, the story takes on another twist. However, the twist at the end is even more intriguing than I could imagine.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and enjoyed traipsing along San Francisco and environs. I would prefer a bit less in the passion department. For Christian fiction, I think we can have characters who don't grope, snuggle, or kiss each other so passionately. The story was very good. I'd love to read more in "The Heart of San Francisco" series, but I would encourage Julie Lessman to tone down the passion a bit.
DISCLOSURE: I was given a complimentary copy of Love at Any Cost in exchange for my honest re view by Revell a Division of Baker Publishing Group. Opinions expressed are solely my own. Book synopsis was taken from the Revell website.
November 1, 2013
When I hear the name Julie Lessman mentioned I have to break out in a grin, can't help but have that reaction to someone who has brought so much joy into my life with her wonderful books. Julie is well known for her Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change books, which introduced us to the O'Connor family. Now it seems she will be known for this one too.
In this novel Julie takes us clear 'cross the country to the big ole state of Texas where we meet a feisty little ole spitfire that goes by the name of Cassidy McClare. Cassie is more at home roping cattle on the range than all dressed up going to dances. When a handsome man proposes marriage to Cassidy she thinks her life is complete until he finds out her daddy's oil wells have dried up and he dumps her. Cassie decides she needs a new start so she takes a trip out to San Francisco to spend time with her Aunt Caitlyn, who is the widow of her dad's brother.
While Cassie is collecting her baggage at the train station she is literally swept off her feet by a handsome man who isn't watching where he is going. Trying not to be rude she accepts his apology knowing she will never have to see this "pretty boy" again or so she thinks.
Jamie McKenna is a handsome lawyer working at one the best firms in San Francisco run by Logan McClare, Cassie's uncle. No one would ever know Jamie was raised in one of the boardinghouses in the unsavory Barbary Coast. Jamie worked three jobs to put himself through college but not only did he accomplish that he moved his mother and crippled sister to a better part of town. Now if only he could find a beautiful, rich young woman to marry he might be able to fulfill his dreams; to get the surgery his sister needs and to have a beautiful house on the affluent Nob Hill.
When Jamie shows up at Caitlyn McClare's house he is shocked to find the beauty he bowled over at the train station earlier that day, but Cassie is not the least bit happy to see him. Now this is where the fun begins...Jamie is quite smitten with Cassie but it seems it's going to take a lot of smooth talking and a few kisses to get her to succumb to his charms. He may even have to up the ante by going to church with her and that is not high on his list of things to do because he's been angry at God since his sister's accident. Will things work out for Cassie and Jamie or will something happen to send Cassie running back to Texas faster than a spooked filly?
What a book! There are heated moments of Cassie and Jamie sharing kisses that could start fireworks that are hotter than the Fourth of July. There's a juicy little secret from her past that Cassie's Aunt Caitlyn is keeping, as usual it seems Julie thought of everything to get your heart racing!! I even found my mouth hanging open at a big ole shocker she threw in but my goodness this is a Julie Lessman book, what else could I expect??!! In my opinion Julie has written another fabulous book that you DO NOT want to miss but don't take my word for it, this is one you have to savor for yourself!!
In this novel Julie takes us clear 'cross the country to the big ole state of Texas where we meet a feisty little ole spitfire that goes by the name of Cassidy McClare. Cassie is more at home roping cattle on the range than all dressed up going to dances. When a handsome man proposes marriage to Cassidy she thinks her life is complete until he finds out her daddy's oil wells have dried up and he dumps her. Cassie decides she needs a new start so she takes a trip out to San Francisco to spend time with her Aunt Caitlyn, who is the widow of her dad's brother.
While Cassie is collecting her baggage at the train station she is literally swept off her feet by a handsome man who isn't watching where he is going. Trying not to be rude she accepts his apology knowing she will never have to see this "pretty boy" again or so she thinks.
Jamie McKenna is a handsome lawyer working at one the best firms in San Francisco run by Logan McClare, Cassie's uncle. No one would ever know Jamie was raised in one of the boardinghouses in the unsavory Barbary Coast. Jamie worked three jobs to put himself through college but not only did he accomplish that he moved his mother and crippled sister to a better part of town. Now if only he could find a beautiful, rich young woman to marry he might be able to fulfill his dreams; to get the surgery his sister needs and to have a beautiful house on the affluent Nob Hill.
When Jamie shows up at Caitlyn McClare's house he is shocked to find the beauty he bowled over at the train station earlier that day, but Cassie is not the least bit happy to see him. Now this is where the fun begins...Jamie is quite smitten with Cassie but it seems it's going to take a lot of smooth talking and a few kisses to get her to succumb to his charms. He may even have to up the ante by going to church with her and that is not high on his list of things to do because he's been angry at God since his sister's accident. Will things work out for Cassie and Jamie or will something happen to send Cassie running back to Texas faster than a spooked filly?
What a book! There are heated moments of Cassie and Jamie sharing kisses that could start fireworks that are hotter than the Fourth of July. There's a juicy little secret from her past that Cassie's Aunt Caitlyn is keeping, as usual it seems Julie thought of everything to get your heart racing!! I even found my mouth hanging open at a big ole shocker she threw in but my goodness this is a Julie Lessman book, what else could I expect??!! In my opinion Julie has written another fabulous book that you DO NOT want to miss but don't take my word for it, this is one you have to savor for yourself!!
December 23, 2013
Love at Any Cost by Julie Lessman – A Book Review
As a fan of Christian fiction, I have read many Christian novels that had a romantic flare whether as the main storyline or as a subplot. I have read none that sizzled like this novel by Julie Lessman. It was reminiscent of the novels I read as a twenty-something before I discovered Christian fiction. Yet, Lessman was able to build the tension and make stolen kisses seem like so much more without
compromising the integrity of herself, her characters, or her readers. I will definitely read more books by this author. (I had one this one as part of a Christian fiction scavenger hunt.)
Love at Any Cost puts Caitlyn McClare in the role of a progressive reformer like Eleanor Roosevelt and Frances Willard, as passionate as, but more subdued than, Carrie Nation. Like many women of that era, she is at first reluctant to step out of her traditional role as a woman, but decides to place social reform as a priority in her life, quoting Edmund Burke, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing,” realizing that speaks to women as well. As the matriarch of the McClare family, she nurtures her family and cares for their spiritual health while struggling with her own desires. Lessman leaves us wondering about the path Cait’s love like will take, and I’m hoping she’ll continue to be featured in The Heart of San Francisco series.
The main character in this novel is Cassidy McClare, her romance with the persistent Jamie McKenna providing the sizzle in this story. Cassidy, wounded by a money loving lothario back home in Texas, is on guard against all men when she encounters Jamie. She struggles with keeping Jamie at arms’ length, and helping him to discover an authentic faith in God. Just when you think you know how Cassidy and Jamie’s story is going to come to closure, Lessman introduces a totally unexpected turn of events making it impossible to put the book down until the final page is turned.
I am definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
As a fan of Christian fiction, I have read many Christian novels that had a romantic flare whether as the main storyline or as a subplot. I have read none that sizzled like this novel by Julie Lessman. It was reminiscent of the novels I read as a twenty-something before I discovered Christian fiction. Yet, Lessman was able to build the tension and make stolen kisses seem like so much more without
compromising the integrity of herself, her characters, or her readers. I will definitely read more books by this author. (I had one this one as part of a Christian fiction scavenger hunt.)
Love at Any Cost puts Caitlyn McClare in the role of a progressive reformer like Eleanor Roosevelt and Frances Willard, as passionate as, but more subdued than, Carrie Nation. Like many women of that era, she is at first reluctant to step out of her traditional role as a woman, but decides to place social reform as a priority in her life, quoting Edmund Burke, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing,” realizing that speaks to women as well. As the matriarch of the McClare family, she nurtures her family and cares for their spiritual health while struggling with her own desires. Lessman leaves us wondering about the path Cait’s love like will take, and I’m hoping she’ll continue to be featured in The Heart of San Francisco series.
The main character in this novel is Cassidy McClare, her romance with the persistent Jamie McKenna providing the sizzle in this story. Cassidy, wounded by a money loving lothario back home in Texas, is on guard against all men when she encounters Jamie. She struggles with keeping Jamie at arms’ length, and helping him to discover an authentic faith in God. Just when you think you know how Cassidy and Jamie’s story is going to come to closure, Lessman introduces a totally unexpected turn of events making it impossible to put the book down until the final page is turned.
I am definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
January 20, 2014
After adoring the O'Conners I was slightly worried as to how much I would like this new series. I shouldn't have worried though since I ended up loving it! I loved the McClares from the get go and I can tell I'm going to love reading all of their stories!
Cassie was such a fun heroine! I loved her spunk and down to earth ways! I also loved how wow she was sweet and fun when she wanted she could be tough and no nonsense when needed! And another favorite thing about her was how strong her faith was and how she refused to lower her standards! I felt so bad for her with all the pain she went through but I was greatly impressed by how strong she stayed through it all!
Jamie was great too! Though I was a little annoyed with how he wanted to marry rich I did understand where he was coming from since he wasn't thinking just about himself but rather about his mother and sister. I really admired his love and care for his family and how dedicated he was to making a better life for them. I also really liked the fact that he held himself to a pretty high standard when it came to drinking and women. It was really cool to watch as he learned to give God the control and trust in Him rather than doing everything himself.
As I said I loved the rest of the McClares as well, from kind and motherly Caitlyn, to stubborn rogue Uncle Logan, and Cassie's cousins Blake, Allison, Meg, and Maddie. I also really liked Bram (side note: I love that as a nickname for Abraham!) with his quiet faith and his friendship with Jamie. And then there were Hadley, the old butler with the bad hearing, Rosie, the gruff but sweet houskeeper/nanny, and Miss Behave, the parrot that they taught to say funny things, all of whom I loved.
So suffice it to say I thoroughly loved this first book of Julie's new series and I can't wait to read more!
Cassie was such a fun heroine! I loved her spunk and down to earth ways! I also loved how wow she was sweet and fun when she wanted she could be tough and no nonsense when needed! And another favorite thing about her was how strong her faith was and how she refused to lower her standards! I felt so bad for her with all the pain she went through but I was greatly impressed by how strong she stayed through it all!
Jamie was great too! Though I was a little annoyed with how he wanted to marry rich I did understand where he was coming from since he wasn't thinking just about himself but rather about his mother and sister. I really admired his love and care for his family and how dedicated he was to making a better life for them. I also really liked the fact that he held himself to a pretty high standard when it came to drinking and women. It was really cool to watch as he learned to give God the control and trust in Him rather than doing everything himself.
As I said I loved the rest of the McClares as well, from kind and motherly Caitlyn, to stubborn rogue Uncle Logan, and Cassie's cousins Blake, Allison, Meg, and Maddie. I also really liked Bram (side note: I love that as a nickname for Abraham!) with his quiet faith and his friendship with Jamie. And then there were Hadley, the old butler with the bad hearing, Rosie, the gruff but sweet houskeeper/nanny, and Miss Behave, the parrot that they taught to say funny things, all of whom I loved.
So suffice it to say I thoroughly loved this first book of Julie's new series and I can't wait to read more!
January 18, 2014
Love at Any Cost is sure to sweep you off your feet!
After a tearful goodbye to the O'Connors, I was ready to introduce myself to the McClares. And boy are they a fun group! Moving away from Boston to the West Coast of San Fransisco, was a nice change of scenery. Truthfully, of the available cities for Lessman to choose, I'm glad she chose San Fransisco. It really adds something to the flair of the time and the characters. :-)
Cassidy McClare is one heartbroken Texan you don't want to mess with. Having decided she's through with "pretty boy polecats", she wasn't prepared to meet Jamie MacKenna, her cousins' best friend. I felt her emotional transition shift from Mark to Jamie was paced well, and I liked how she clung to God when heartbreak happened again. She's funny, full of spunk, and she has a faith that while it isn't perfect, it is a rock Cassie can hold on to at the turn of the tide.
As much as I tried, I had a rough go of it trying to like Jamie. One minute he's a likable man doing everything in his power for his mother and sister and the next he's kissing Cassie senseless. I only really came to like him as the book drew to a close.
I conclusion, Lessman returns with a new family to love, passionate love interests, a new city to behold, and great writing. I look forward very much to Dare to Love!
I received this book from Revell in return for an honest review of my opinions. Thanks!
Available April 15, 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
After a tearful goodbye to the O'Connors, I was ready to introduce myself to the McClares. And boy are they a fun group! Moving away from Boston to the West Coast of San Fransisco, was a nice change of scenery. Truthfully, of the available cities for Lessman to choose, I'm glad she chose San Fransisco. It really adds something to the flair of the time and the characters. :-)
Cassidy McClare is one heartbroken Texan you don't want to mess with. Having decided she's through with "pretty boy polecats", she wasn't prepared to meet Jamie MacKenna, her cousins' best friend. I felt her emotional transition shift from Mark to Jamie was paced well, and I liked how she clung to God when heartbreak happened again. She's funny, full of spunk, and she has a faith that while it isn't perfect, it is a rock Cassie can hold on to at the turn of the tide.
As much as I tried, I had a rough go of it trying to like Jamie. One minute he's a likable man doing everything in his power for his mother and sister and the next he's kissing Cassie senseless. I only really came to like him as the book drew to a close.
I conclusion, Lessman returns with a new family to love, passionate love interests, a new city to behold, and great writing. I look forward very much to Dare to Love!
I received this book from Revell in return for an honest review of my opinions. Thanks!
Available April 15, 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
September 3, 2013
I had heard a great deal about this book from comments on Fred St Laurent’s Book Club Network, then won the book in a blog giveaway.
The characterization in Love at Any Cost is well done. The two main characters, Cassidy and Jamie complement each other with their opposing world views. This sets the stage for Jamie’s spiritual growth. Secondary characters round out a loving family to be carried on throughout the series.
I am familiar with the time period, but not the Barbary Coast of San Francisco during that era. I liked the way the author showed compassion for those caught up in the lifestyle there through the thoughts and feelings of her characters.
This book sustained strong themes, such as love of family, forgiveness, the power of love, and the importance of God’s presence in a relationship. Miss Lessman enhanced the story with humor as well as thought-provoking moments.
I did have a problem with the references to Jamie as a “pretty boy.” Somehow the use of this description made Jamie an unlikeable character for me, and it took me quite a while to warm up to him as a character even worthy of Cassidy’s consideration as a romantic interest.
I had only read one other Julie Lessman book, her debut novel, A Passion Most Pure. Even though I enjoyed Love at Any Cost, I felt it lacked the intensity I found so compelling in A Passion Most Pure.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy historical romance, especially where a character's spiritual journey is well defined.
The characterization in Love at Any Cost is well done. The two main characters, Cassidy and Jamie complement each other with their opposing world views. This sets the stage for Jamie’s spiritual growth. Secondary characters round out a loving family to be carried on throughout the series.
I am familiar with the time period, but not the Barbary Coast of San Francisco during that era. I liked the way the author showed compassion for those caught up in the lifestyle there through the thoughts and feelings of her characters.
This book sustained strong themes, such as love of family, forgiveness, the power of love, and the importance of God’s presence in a relationship. Miss Lessman enhanced the story with humor as well as thought-provoking moments.
I did have a problem with the references to Jamie as a “pretty boy.” Somehow the use of this description made Jamie an unlikeable character for me, and it took me quite a while to warm up to him as a character even worthy of Cassidy’s consideration as a romantic interest.
I had only read one other Julie Lessman book, her debut novel, A Passion Most Pure. Even though I enjoyed Love at Any Cost, I felt it lacked the intensity I found so compelling in A Passion Most Pure.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy historical romance, especially where a character's spiritual journey is well defined.
January 22, 2014
Be Prepared to Fall in Love!
Everyone always has good things to say about Julie Lessman so I was very excited to read something of hers and see for myself what her writing entailed. I must say, everyone is absolutely right in praising Ms. Lessman’s writing because I found myself drawn right into this story and loving every minute.
Love at Any Cost is the first book in the Heart of San Francisco series. I found the characters coming to life and becoming my friends as I entered their world. I laughed with the characters and felt the emotion of the situations. I enjoyed the joking dialogue and absolutely loved the secondary love story written into the plot.
Cassie has come from Texas to live with her cousins in California. After being jilted by a fortune hunter, she isn’t ready to look for love again. Jamie, however, is looking to marry a fortune. And when the beautiful Cassie comes to town, he sets his sights on winning her love. Cassie warms up to Jamie but she refuses to give her heart to a man who hasn’t given his heart to God.
I am excited to read the second installment in this series, Dare to Love Again!
I received a free ecopy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. I received no compensation for this review, nor was I required to write a positive review. All opinions stated are my own.
Leah B.
Must Love Books
http://mustlovereading.wordpress.com/
Everyone always has good things to say about Julie Lessman so I was very excited to read something of hers and see for myself what her writing entailed. I must say, everyone is absolutely right in praising Ms. Lessman’s writing because I found myself drawn right into this story and loving every minute.
Love at Any Cost is the first book in the Heart of San Francisco series. I found the characters coming to life and becoming my friends as I entered their world. I laughed with the characters and felt the emotion of the situations. I enjoyed the joking dialogue and absolutely loved the secondary love story written into the plot.
Cassie has come from Texas to live with her cousins in California. After being jilted by a fortune hunter, she isn’t ready to look for love again. Jamie, however, is looking to marry a fortune. And when the beautiful Cassie comes to town, he sets his sights on winning her love. Cassie warms up to Jamie but she refuses to give her heart to a man who hasn’t given his heart to God.
I am excited to read the second installment in this series, Dare to Love Again!
I received a free ecopy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. I received no compensation for this review, nor was I required to write a positive review. All opinions stated are my own.
Leah B.
Must Love Books
http://mustlovereading.wordpress.com/
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