As a draftswoman in a man's world, Jessica Sinclair causes a stir as her new male colleagues vie for her attention. And the company manager has an fake a courtship with her boss, Flynt Kavanaugh…or lose her job. But pretending to be smitten with the handsome engineer unleashes a real, complicated attraction—and could reveal the past she hoped to keep hidden.
Jessica is certainly the best person for the job. But as their make-believe romance escalates, Flynt knows that's not the only reason he wants her on his team. However, with his past shrouded by a shameful secret, Flynt has always focused his ambitions on building a career, not a family. Now he has designs on Jessica's heart, but can they trust each other with the truth?
Keli Gwyn's stories transported readers to the 1800s, where she brought historic towns to life, peopled them with colorful characters, and added a hint of humor. She has retired from writing and is spending time with her husband and adorable cat.
This was an odd little book. It started out with an overabundance of physical attraction and an instant attraction. I was confused by why they were instantly attracted to each other yet balked at having to pretend to court each other, which seemed like conflicting ideas. Once the fake courtship got going, the story picked up and became more enjoyable to me. It was mostly unpredictable, with creative and unique events throughout. I especially enjoyed the roller skating scene as well as featuring a team of draftspeople, which I didn't know much about. I think the leads' tough backgrounds involving saloons were handled well and with grace, though I wish I had a bit of warning that they involved saloons.
Something that was concerning to me was that the leads ended up being okay with deceiving the entire community about their relationship and never once felt conviction over that behavior. I kept waiting for them to realize and apologize to the community at a church service or some other event, but neither ever came around. Is the author condoning purposely misleading people as long as it's for the greater good or even to get what one wants? I'm unsure. That lack of conviction over something that deceived an entire communityful of people made me uncomfortable and really uncertain as to how many stars to give this book.
One other thing that bugged me is that it was made clear in the story that the leading lady barely came up to the leading man's shoulders when she stood at her full height, yet the darling cover clearly shows they are nearly the same height. Covers that don't match up with the story -- no matter how adorable they are! -- annoy me so much. That was a big disappointment to me about this book, since the cover was what drew my attention to this book.
Oh goodness, I loved this book! I really loved the uniqueness of Jessica and her being a drafts woman. This is something I never knew would have existed back then but thanks to the readers note in the back, I know this is historical. How strong they had to be and what a perfect strong heroine Jessica was. Flynt was a DREAM! He was caring and supportive! Just the best Hero! Can we talk the first kiss?! OH.MY. I've decided amazing first kisses is where this author excels at. Whew! I loved their relationship and how suited they were together! There was conflict but not the kind where the characters are overly stubborn and get on the readers nerves. No, it was well done. And not overly done. The ending was so sweet! It brought to mind my grandmother who made my grandfather agree to certain things before she agreed to marry him. I don't want to give anyway away. Just read this delightful tale! I'm going to go seek out any books by this author I may have missed now. Highly recommend!
I won this book at a FaceBook party, and I am really thankful to be introduced to this author! This historical fiction book becomes more endearing when the reader realizes that Placerville, California, was her hometown; the El Dorado Water & Deep Gravel Mining Company was real; and her mother was a draftswoman 100 years after this 1874 story about a draftswoman struggling for a place in and respect for her trade. But this book deals with more than just history. The deeper story is about forgiveness and the struggle of overcoming their pasts and the shame from them, becoming "as white as snow clinging to the stops of the Sierras". One of my favorite lines in the book is: "the stains of her disreputable past...were as impossible to remove as the India ink she used...which left indelible marks on whatever it TOUCHED." As Keli wrote: "Our pasts don't define us." But perhaps my favorite line in her book is: "She'd learned long ago that if you listened to a person's story, that person often became more likeable than before." Such truth so simply stated! If you like historical fiction, you have to read this!
What a delightful and warm-hearted story! Author Keli Gwyn sets up a unique situation in Make Believe Beau, with a draftsman hiring a draftswoman in 1874 and their ensuing attraction as they work together.
Heroine Jessica is an independent young woman determined to use her talents in a male-dominated world. She's the perfect mix of sassy and kind, and I loved how the author twined her hidden past with hero Flynt's past. Flynt's an honorable hero focused on his draftsman position and future, until the lovely young draftswoman and he are forced into a courtship charade that just might not be make believe after all.
The story unfolds with exciting, surprising, and tender scenes between Jessie and Flynt, and the spiritual message resonates beautifully without being overdone.
I've enjoyed all of this author's books, and look forward to her next historical romance. Highly recommend Make-Believe Beau!
Jessica Sinclair has worked hard to become a top-notch draftswoman. Unfortunately very few women are in that profession so Jessie is constantly having to prove herself. When she has an opportunity to prove herself at a new job Jessie knows that there will be hurdles to jump in order to gain the respect of her fellow draftsmen.
Flynt Kavanaugh is the man that has gotten Jessie her job. He's seen her work and knows that she is the perfect match for their team. Since having a woman on the team is such a novelty Flynt's boss comes up with a plan to keep everyone working and Jessie from becoming a distraction. If Jessie and Flynt pretend they are courting then everything will run smoothly in the office and Jessie will be able to keep her job.
Jessie and Flynt both have secrets they prefer nobody ever knows about. Those secrets might prove the undoing of their ruse and their growing attraction towards each other.
I really enjoyed Make-Believe Beau. Jessie is a strong female character who is independent yet doesn't feel diminished by the comfort or protection of Flynt. Flynt knows how to frustrate a girl! Actually both Flynt and Jessie manage to frustrate each other. Their story is the perfect example of what happens when a person assumes they know what another person is thinking or feeling. There were sweet moments between Flynt and Jessie(the kiss...sigh!). I love the spiritual lesson taught in the story. Jessie's desire to help women caught in unfortunate circumstances showed her heart for obedience to the Lord. Make-Believe Beau is a sweet romance that left me smiling and satisfied.
What a fascinating time and place for a historical setting. And how exciting to have the heroine work at an unusual job. Jessica faces all kinds of prejudice as a draftswoman in the male dominated profession. Honestly, I was fuming over the concept that the draftsmen's inattention to work was her fault! Gah! However I guess I shouldn't complain too loudly since that's the reason the make-believe romance comes into play. And, oh what fun that is! Jessica trying not to be attracted to Flynt. Flynt trying not to take his role as besotted beau too seriously. Both of them failing miserably -- but not trusting one another enough to turn make-believe into reality. A beautiful inspirational thread about the power of grace fleshed out Flynt and Jessica's love story to perfection. Captivating from beginning to end.
Make Believe Beau by Keli Gwyn. It takes place in 1874. Jessica Sinclair had a rough life. At age 16 she worked as a singer in a saloon. Her boss told her she would not have to do anything but sing. She did that for two years until she saved enough to better herself. She took classes and became a draftswoman in a man's world. She leave town and finds a job as a draftswoman for a company. The owner didn't like the idea of hiring a woman but she was the best for the job. Her boss, Flynt Kavanaugh liked her work. Flynt and Jessica became involved. A lot goes on in this book. A good read about a woman working in a man's world.
Another ridiculous, over-the-top, implausible, poorly written disaster from love inspired. I don’t know why I torture myself by continuing to read these. I guess I keep hoping I’ll find a really good one. All the ones I’ve read are just really silly and goofy-not intentionally and not in a good way-like what a young teen might think is romantic.
This is another love at first sight debacle and when the leads are forced to spend time together, they balk and act like they’re being punished. This whole plot line was so stupid. Of course, Jessie gets the blame as an attractive woman for work not getting done and being distracting and not the grown men who “can’t help themselves.” Instead of the men being told to concentrate on work or be fired, this was the stupid boss’s solution.
Jessie and Flynt’s thoughts and actions from then on are completely contradictory to how they really feel and so nothing makes sense. It’s not good drama if all the problems could be solved by an honest conversation and have the conflict come from somewhere else.
As for the spiritual part, they both have kinda weak faiths, can’t let the past go and wallow in self-pity. So unattractive. I think Mr. Parks was the only character I liked. Although it was interesting to read about Jessie’s work as a draftsperson.
I also hated the number of times we had to read about Jessie biting her lower lip and how distracting Flynt found it and how turned on he was. So weird and dumb and annoying. Again, why is this something that is in practically every inspirational/christian book out there?
I HATE IT! STOP! Dumb and stupid doesn’t do this catastrophe justice.
I really enjoyed this one. Jessie is used to making her way in a man's world. She is a draftswoman and is significantly good at what she does. She lands her dream job with a company and in large part thanks to Flynt. Flynt and Jessie are thrown together when their employer demands they pose as a couple to keep the office productive. Each have issues from their past that could affect their relationship. I really liked Jessie. Her past was an issue, but not as horrible as she thought it was. She still has trouble grasping that God does forgive all sins. Flynt's own past casts a large shadow across his outlook. He is a good man, hard worker, and all around stand up guy. I like that while they are forced into the roles, they both enjoy it. There is instant attraction but not instant love. Their friendship grows and blossoms into more. Their issues were a big problem but only if they allow it to be bigger than they believe God can handle. It was a 5/5 for me. A good, quick read with a good message.
Won this one. Jessica loves her job as a draftswoman, but in an office of nothing but men is not the best situation. Company manager comes up with idea of her a pretend beau. This can bring other problems.
Can she work out the situation and keep her job?
Recommend to others. Looking forward to reading other books by Keli Gwyn.
You can never go wrong with Keli Gwyn. Although this particular book was heavier in the faith department than I usually read, I feel it was tastefully done and fitting for the characters situations. Being an engineering major, this book resonated with me. I loved reading about Jessie and how she forced her way into a man's world and does exceptionally well. Good for her! Another 5 stars for a wonderful read.
Cute, cheesy, read with some fun elements about women draftsmen in a short historical fiction. Both characters had their issues and their secrets and it seems to follow the cliche pattern, until it didn't. It was fun and sweet.
Didn't finish this one. Liked the story line, but couldn't get into it. It seemed there was nothing more to the story. You know they will fall for each other In the end.
I really enjoyed this book. It was nice to read about characters who made something of themselves despite coming from difficult backgrounds in early life.
What an entertaining story with an intriguing mix of history and romance!
In 1874, draftswoman Jessica Sinclair is a self-sufficient lady with a challenging new position in a male-dominated workplace. Determined engineer Flynt Kavanaugh is her hardworking and fair-minded boss. Both have secrets concerning their earlier situations, providing an interesting story as they try to keep the past hidden and try to be convincing in their pretend courtship.
Jessica warmed my heart with her attitude of believing the best of others and with her cheerful, courageous personality. I found myself sympathizing with Flynt as he struggles with his convictions and his attraction to Jessica. He thought he had his life well-planned until he becomes Jessica’s boss and pretend beau. It’s great fun to watch this couple navigate the awkward situation imposed on them as they try to understand each other and overcome past issues.
Author Keli Gwyn brings the historical setting of Placerville, California, to life as details of constructing the actual El Dorado Canal and of life in the charming town are sprinkled throughout the book. One of my favorite nostalgic scenes is of the couple during a roller-skating activity…very realistic. Most importantly, the romance builds with sweetness and the faith thread is touching, with many takeaways expressed perfectly. If you enjoy history mixed with the romance of an interesting couple, I think you’ll truly enjoy Make-Believe Beau.
Favorite quotes: “The Lord’s gifted you with a remarkable voice. It’s my belief that when He gifts us, He does so in the hope that we’ll share what we’ve been given with others.” “Everyone bore stains of one kind or another. That was why the Lord had come. To pay the price for the mistakes of mankind. Through His sacrifice on the cross, He’d cleansed her.”
*I won a copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. It’s a pleasure to post my honest opinion of this book.
overall: this was an interesting book that had some cool historical details on the building of the flume in El dorado county. jessie was a neat and independent girl out to make a living. Pros: I really liked jessie. She was a friendly and independent person with a warm heart. She worked hard to make something of herself. Sid of course was a wonderful horse and so very handsome. the water scene was thrilling and I enjoyed the details of the flume and jessie experiencing her fear of heights. cons: I just couldn't like Flynn. I really liked his involvement with horses and helping jessie in her new job but his fatal flaw of prejudice was hard for me to get over. but he was very handsome.
What would you do if pretending to be in love with your supervisor were a condition of your employment? Especially if that supervisor had also been ordered to carry on the charade by the owner of the company? This historical novel explores the sometimes poignant, sometimes frustrating (but definitely enjoyable) story that in modern days would be almost illegal!
Jessie Sinclair only wants to be accepted as a draftswoman. She's not looking for romance. Flynt Kavanaugh just wants the boss, Corby, to give this talented woman a chance to prove her work is as good or better than the other four draftsmen in the department. However, strife erupts when she sits down at a drafting board and begins work. Two friendly faces, two definitely unfriendly.
So when the boss makes his suggestion and tacks it on as a condition to her continuing in her job, what can they do? Corby says a month, and then they can "split up." One month. One month to prove herself better than adequate at her job and ease the tensions there. Surely she can tolerate one month.
If only she can continue to conceal her past from the very straight-laced Flynt and the others.
Make Believe Beau was the first book I’ve read by Keli Gwyn. I look forward to reading more of her books in the future. What a well written historical inspiration tale. Jessica Sinclair was an unusual woman for her period of time being a draftswoman. Add in her boss, Flynt Kavanaugh, whose boss insisted Jessica and Flynt fake their courtship. Jessica and Flynt each had heartache from their past and strong opinions that were not agreeable with one another. Will Jessica and Flynt be able to overcome their past hurts and find a deeper faith in God and possibly fall in love for real instead of faking their courtship? The characters and unexpected events made this book a joy to read. Make Believe Beau is filled with determination, heartache, joys, faith and romance.
I received a complimentary copy of Make Believe Beau from the author as a winner from a blog giveaway. I was not required to write a review but have shared my honest opinion.
Keli Gwyn is a wonderful storyteller, and I love getting lost in the pages of her books! In Make-Believe Beau, she brings to life the rich history of the setting, and I reveled in the myriad of fascinating details that were included. I also enjoyed the uniqueness of the heroine’s career; Jessica Sinclair is a talented draftswoman in a time when very few women in this field existed.
Jessica and Flynt’s story is entertaining and engaging from the first page until the last! I delighted in their journeys to overcome their pasts and the lessons they learned along the way. “A simple, unexpected gesture can have quite an impact.” Make-Believe Beau is sure to delight readers of historical romance!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Make-Believe Beau is another great book by author Keli Gwyn. You first meet Jessica Sinclair in A Home of her Own, but you don't have to read it before reading this book.
Jessica is a draftswoman in a man’s world. At her new workplace Jessica and engineer Flynt find themselves the victims of a matchmaker in the form of their cigar smoking boss.
Jessica and Flynt both learn that God brings complete forgiveness for past wrongs. They also learn about trust. This is a great book and I would highly recommend reading it.
I don't usually read historicals because I usually don't like them. I won a copy of Make-Believe Beau in a giveaway and decided to give it a try. I was very pleasantly surprised.
I thought Make-Believe Beau was a great story of a female draftswoman seeking work in a male dominated environment and her engineer supervisor who is forced to become her Make-Believe Beau. They both have baggage related to saloons and deal with it differently. Great story!
I usually really like these kinds of books but I did not like this one at all. I really did not like the slow moving pace, I did not need to know all the details of 1 day, I prefer things to be more spread out. I also did not like the back-story of the 2 characters, the way they meshed was just irritating.
First book by this author that I have read and I can't wait to read more from her. Absolutely loved this book. Loved that I thought 'oh this is going to happen' etc. but something else did. I love when what I expect doesn't happen. I do also loved how I was right on one aspect though. Both characters were enjoyable to read and I loved most of the secondary ones as well.
Make-Believe Beau is such a delight to read. It is a fun story with the lesson of how to forgive and moving on. I highly recommend this book, as well as, any other by Keli Gwyn. 5 plus stars.
Wonderful from begaining to end. I truly like this book, it's that kinda story that are unexpected it.Faith, love and a new chance to start again. Beautil combination. I recomend it! :)
I really enjoyed reading this book. I love the characters Flynt and Jessie. They are real and seeing how they adjust to their predicament was so sweet. I loved this book!