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Heart of India #3
Kingscote
A Web of Treacherous deceit, and a silk heiress determined to find love in the land she calls home.
Jace Buckley, the dashing British officer, has promised to return to Kingscote, bringing with him news of Coral Kendall's missing adopted son. Coral is overjoyed, but her first priority is a mission school for the untouchables on the silk plantation and the handsome Dr. Ethan Boswell has committed to fulfill Coral's dream.
Coral has long delayed choosing between the two very different men, but her impending decision is overshadowed by mysterious threats against her and the school Ethan has struggled to build. When the precious Hindi scripture portions given her by William Carey are found in ashes on the floor of her room, Coral realizes that she must somehow bridge the cultural dissension before it destroys Kingscote.
Danger follows Jace in his search for Coral's abducted son, and the boy's mysterious roots leave Jace entangled in a web of treacherous deceit. Will Jace return to Kingscote in time to claim the woman he loves? Or will the flames of hate destroy all in its path?
The thrilling Heart of India Finale!
Jace Buckley, the dashing British officer, has promised to return to Kingscote, bringing with him news of Coral Kendall's missing adopted son. Coral is overjoyed, but her first priority is a mission school for the untouchables on the silk plantation and the handsome Dr. Ethan Boswell has committed to fulfill Coral's dream.
Coral has long delayed choosing between the two very different men, but her impending decision is overshadowed by mysterious threats against her and the school Ethan has struggled to build. When the precious Hindi scripture portions given her by William Carey are found in ashes on the floor of her room, Coral realizes that she must somehow bridge the cultural dissension before it destroys Kingscote.
Danger follows Jace in his search for Coral's abducted son, and the boy's mysterious roots leave Jace entangled in a web of treacherous deceit. Will Jace return to Kingscote in time to claim the woman he loves? Or will the flames of hate destroy all in its path?
The thrilling Heart of India Finale!
396 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 1994
13 people are currently reading
379 people want to read
About the author
Linda Lee Chaikin
47 books235 followersLinda Chaikin is a Christian fiction author with a focus on historical fiction. She sometimes publishes using the name L.L. Chaikin.
Linda was the youngest of 10 children and her father died shortly after she was born. She wrote her first full-length novel with pen and paper at the age of 14 - this novel was later rewritten as Wednesday's Child, part of the Day to Remember series.
She met her husband, Steve, in a Bible study, and they were married 6 months later. They both went to Multnomah School for the Bible, now known as Multnomah Bible College and Biblical Seminary in Portland, Oregon.
Linda was the youngest of 10 children and her father died shortly after she was born. She wrote her first full-length novel with pen and paper at the age of 14 - this novel was later rewritten as Wednesday's Child, part of the Day to Remember series.
She met her husband, Steve, in a Bible study, and they were married 6 months later. They both went to Multnomah School for the Bible, now known as Multnomah Bible College and Biblical Seminary in Portland, Oregon.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 20, 2016
Set in British-ruled India during the late nineteenth century, Kingscote is the exciting conclusion to Jace and Coral's story.
Jace finally has a lead on where Coral's adopted son is being held, and the opportunity to resume his search. But when he stumbles upon a plot against the maraja in Guwahati, he's caught up in a dangerous uprising.
Ethan returns to the Kingscote silk plantation, and helps Coral establish her mission school for the untouchables in hopes that she will agree to marry him. Yet more than hearts are at stake as Kingscote lands lie in the path of ruthless men.
One thing I love about Linda Chaikin's "Heart of India" series (besides all the heart-stopping action and adventure) is how the plots of the first two books tie in beautifully with the conclusion. Chaikin leaves no rock unturned, no possible connection undiscovered.
Her prose isn't fancy, and this book was published in the '90s -- before the new standard of "show-don't-tell", hold the adverbs, and don't put all the descriptions in the beginning of a scene. But laying aside all those rules, story is king, and Linda Chaikin knows how to tell a fantastic story. Her descriptions of the climate and animals put you right there in India with the characters.
"Kingscote" is more historical fiction than romance, but don't let that hold you back. Jace and Coral's love story still remains one of my all time favs. :-)
Jace finally has a lead on where Coral's adopted son is being held, and the opportunity to resume his search. But when he stumbles upon a plot against the maraja in Guwahati, he's caught up in a dangerous uprising.
Ethan returns to the Kingscote silk plantation, and helps Coral establish her mission school for the untouchables in hopes that she will agree to marry him. Yet more than hearts are at stake as Kingscote lands lie in the path of ruthless men.
One thing I love about Linda Chaikin's "Heart of India" series (besides all the heart-stopping action and adventure) is how the plots of the first two books tie in beautifully with the conclusion. Chaikin leaves no rock unturned, no possible connection undiscovered.
Her prose isn't fancy, and this book was published in the '90s -- before the new standard of "show-don't-tell", hold the adverbs, and don't put all the descriptions in the beginning of a scene. But laying aside all those rules, story is king, and Linda Chaikin knows how to tell a fantastic story. Her descriptions of the climate and animals put you right there in India with the characters.
"Kingscote" is more historical fiction than romance, but don't let that hold you back. Jace and Coral's love story still remains one of my all time favs. :-)
April 28, 2019
3.5 stars
This is the second trilogy I've read from Linda Chaikin, and I noticed a few patterns:
1. Her settings are superb. This, in my opinion, is what she does best. I felt like I was in historical India, Spain, England, even Burma. It was very well researched and enjoyable to read.
2. She writes suspense well. The plot was extremely fast paced and there was lots of danger. My heart has literally pounded while reading each of Ms. Chaikin's books.
3. The writing is okay. There were some parts that felt awkward and stiff to me. In my opinion, it could've used another go-over from an editor.
4. The romance is somewhat problematic. This was my biggest problem with both this and the Egypt trilogy. Both of the main guys have been brooding and mysterious, difficult to get to know. And the girl falls for him and (*spoiler*) marries him, despite not knowing him much at all. It bugs me enough to bring down my enjoyment level, and thus the rating.
I think there were some good things about the trilogy, and if it sounds interesting to you, feel free to give it a try. The settings alone make it a fun read.
This is the second trilogy I've read from Linda Chaikin, and I noticed a few patterns:
1. Her settings are superb. This, in my opinion, is what she does best. I felt like I was in historical India, Spain, England, even Burma. It was very well researched and enjoyable to read.
2. She writes suspense well. The plot was extremely fast paced and there was lots of danger. My heart has literally pounded while reading each of Ms. Chaikin's books.
3. The writing is okay. There were some parts that felt awkward and stiff to me. In my opinion, it could've used another go-over from an editor.
4. The romance is somewhat problematic. This was my biggest problem with both this and the Egypt trilogy. Both of the main guys have been brooding and mysterious, difficult to get to know. And the girl falls for him and (*spoiler*) marries him, despite not knowing him much at all. It bugs me enough to bring down my enjoyment level, and thus the rating.
I think there were some good things about the trilogy, and if it sounds interesting to you, feel free to give it a try. The settings alone make it a fun read.
May 5, 2018
This book had so much action I read it in a day even though it was the thickest of the three books. Unfortunately, it reverted to the first book in that the hero and heroine saw each other only a couple times between large chunks of time. Of course, they both had to do what they had to do, but the second book with them adventuring together will always be my favorite. All the same, the setting was still so rich and vibrant, and I heartily applaud Carol's missionary endeavors. And Jace's espionage. A good ending to a historical novel set in the wilds of India.
June 12, 2024
Wow what a conclusion to the series! This book was full-on! It had everything you want in a story, rich history, a captivating setting, loads of adventure and intrigue, formidable villains, spiritual truths and of course an addictive romance! This was definitely the best book of the series but can't be read as a stand alone, you'll have to read the previous two books to enjoy this satisfying conclusion. Moral of the story, don't let the terribly out dated covers deceive you, beneath lies a story worth reading!
February 23, 2026
Overall, this series was a solid 4.5-star read. The first book is a bit slow because it sets up everything for the rest of the series. In the third book, Kingscote, we continue to follow Coral’s struggle to find her son.
Without giving any spoilers, my favorite thing about this series is how God is front and center. Coral and her family go through so much, but because of their love for Jesus, they are able to keep going. Even if you don’t care for romance-heavy books (like myself), there is something in this series for everyone. Well done Linda Chaikin!
Without giving any spoilers, my favorite thing about this series is how God is front and center. Coral and her family go through so much, but because of their love for Jesus, they are able to keep going. Even if you don’t care for romance-heavy books (like myself), there is something in this series for everyone. Well done Linda Chaikin!
August 27, 2017
One twist to the next
This book will keep you on the edge of your seat. A wonderful love story that teaches you to always keep your eye on the prize. Wonderfully written.
This book will keep you on the edge of your seat. A wonderful love story that teaches you to always keep your eye on the prize. Wonderfully written.
March 2, 2020
My type of reading
November 12, 2020
A fulfilling finish to this classic CF series. I defo got a lot more out of it as an adult than I ever did as a YA reader!
September 6, 2023
I just got bored of this series. Quit reading it after chapter 1.
September 27, 2023
excellent
I have read this book several times and each time I can hardly put it down! Love the history of the series and the values of the characters in the book!
I have read this book several times and each time I can hardly put it down! Love the history of the series and the values of the characters in the book!
February 28, 2017
I really liked this whole series, but the ending was somewhat anticlimactic. The series keeps building, and then the final book keeps building and building.... only to fall a bit short of expectations.
For instance, there was no big confrontation with Sir Hugo. Why?! I was hoping to at least see him and Hampton duke it out.
Where did Hampton's strong faith come from so suddenly?! In book one he wasn't "religious." Now in book 3 he's a seasoned Christian. Just doesn't add up.
Coral's reunion with Gem-- after all that time and the angst and the mystery and the trials... it just felt so cold and unrealistic. Like "hey it's my missing son. He's safe now, so it's cool... okay, so I'm gonna get married now.." No. just no.
Jan Lee has a husband? Um.. What?
Those are some of my problems. The conclusions seem too random or perfect. But, that being said, Chaikin certainly didn't leave any loose ends, which is great.
So while the writing leaves a little bit to be desired, Chaikin tells a great story! Action, romance, history-- it's all there. You see why I have some mixed feelings?!
Great series, and each book was exciting, and the characters were for the most part relatable... I was just slightly disappointed by the ending. It felt rushed and maybe a little forced. I still recommend this series though! Even if I sound really negative....
For instance, there was no big confrontation with Sir Hugo. Why?! I was hoping to at least see him and Hampton duke it out.
Where did Hampton's strong faith come from so suddenly?! In book one he wasn't "religious." Now in book 3 he's a seasoned Christian. Just doesn't add up.
Coral's reunion with Gem-- after all that time and the angst and the mystery and the trials... it just felt so cold and unrealistic. Like "hey it's my missing son. He's safe now, so it's cool... okay, so I'm gonna get married now.." No. just no.
Jan Lee has a husband? Um.. What?
Those are some of my problems. The conclusions seem too random or perfect. But, that being said, Chaikin certainly didn't leave any loose ends, which is great.
So while the writing leaves a little bit to be desired, Chaikin tells a great story! Action, romance, history-- it's all there. You see why I have some mixed feelings?!
Great series, and each book was exciting, and the characters were for the most part relatable... I was just slightly disappointed by the ending. It felt rushed and maybe a little forced. I still recommend this series though! Even if I sound really negative....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2023
#BookReviewFriday
#2023readingchallenge
#30Unfamiliarculture
Book Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
# 30 Unfamiliar Culture
Book: Kingscote (Heart of India #3)
Author: Linda Chaikin
A beautiful ending to a great series by my favorite author. Perfect 5 stars. Overall, this trilogy was a little slower paced than other Linda trilogies, but the finale was fast paced, hard to put down and delivered.
One of my favorite things about Linda is how immersive she makes a foreign culture. This book was no exception. In fact this may be her best representation of a foreign culture yet! The intrigue involving the plot to over throw the maharaja, the unrest of the untouchables as Coral struggles to build a Christian school and Jace's deep struggle to overcome his heathen upbringing and discover Christ was top notch story telling all with the culture as an integral part of the plot.
So many things happened in Kingscote. All plot lines started were flawlessly put to rest culminating in a very satisfying conclusion to a great trilogy.
I loved Coral and Jace's love story. One of my draws to Linda are her strong leading men. Jace was no exception and I enjoyed his authentic and realistic faith journey as well as the way he fought for Coral.
Coral was a strong woman of faith who grew up in India. She knew how to handle herself. I enjoyed watching her hold her family together during a time of difficult uncertainty.
This book was top notch and a perfect conclusion. I will miss Coral and Jace.
I will always recommend this author and I definitely recommend this entire series.
https://m.facebook.com/groups/scriptl...
#2023readingchallenge
#30Unfamiliarculture
Book Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
# 30 Unfamiliar Culture
Book: Kingscote (Heart of India #3)
Author: Linda Chaikin
A beautiful ending to a great series by my favorite author. Perfect 5 stars. Overall, this trilogy was a little slower paced than other Linda trilogies, but the finale was fast paced, hard to put down and delivered.
One of my favorite things about Linda is how immersive she makes a foreign culture. This book was no exception. In fact this may be her best representation of a foreign culture yet! The intrigue involving the plot to over throw the maharaja, the unrest of the untouchables as Coral struggles to build a Christian school and Jace's deep struggle to overcome his heathen upbringing and discover Christ was top notch story telling all with the culture as an integral part of the plot.
So many things happened in Kingscote. All plot lines started were flawlessly put to rest culminating in a very satisfying conclusion to a great trilogy.
I loved Coral and Jace's love story. One of my draws to Linda are her strong leading men. Jace was no exception and I enjoyed his authentic and realistic faith journey as well as the way he fought for Coral.
Coral was a strong woman of faith who grew up in India. She knew how to handle herself. I enjoyed watching her hold her family together during a time of difficult uncertainty.
This book was top notch and a perfect conclusion. I will miss Coral and Jace.
I will always recommend this author and I definitely recommend this entire series.
https://m.facebook.com/groups/scriptl...
January 30, 2013
A review from my old blog...
I have always loved Chaikin's books and have yet to be disappointed. This is the third book in the series of which unfortunately I have not read the first. I picked up the second book at a used book sale for less than a dollar and while it took me a little while to get all of the characters and their relationships straightened out I still enjoyed the book.
When I started reading this book and connected it to the above book I ran upstairs to make sure that I wasn't reading a book I had already read before. That's happened twice so far during this challenge and may happen again. :D (One of the books I just picked up from the library I have the distinct feeling that I've already read before).
Even though Chaikin does things in her books that turn me off to other writers (namely Gilbert Morris) like have multiple characters and weaving from pov to pov I still enjoy her books. The plots are absolutely crazy but so insanely cool and romantic (not in the lovey dovey sense but...) that I want to go back to India during the time of British colonialism just so I'll have a character like Jace Buckley sweep me off my feet.
In the end, all of the plot twists that stretch the imagination work and Chaikin manages to weave into the story a very strong witness for Christ... not just yelling preaching fire and brimstone. (read... Gilbert Morris)
This book definitely receives a solid thumbs up from me.
I have always loved Chaikin's books and have yet to be disappointed. This is the third book in the series of which unfortunately I have not read the first. I picked up the second book at a used book sale for less than a dollar and while it took me a little while to get all of the characters and their relationships straightened out I still enjoyed the book.
When I started reading this book and connected it to the above book I ran upstairs to make sure that I wasn't reading a book I had already read before. That's happened twice so far during this challenge and may happen again. :D (One of the books I just picked up from the library I have the distinct feeling that I've already read before).
Even though Chaikin does things in her books that turn me off to other writers (namely Gilbert Morris) like have multiple characters and weaving from pov to pov I still enjoy her books. The plots are absolutely crazy but so insanely cool and romantic (not in the lovey dovey sense but...) that I want to go back to India during the time of British colonialism just so I'll have a character like Jace Buckley sweep me off my feet.
In the end, all of the plot twists that stretch the imagination work and Chaikin manages to weave into the story a very strong witness for Christ... not just yelling preaching fire and brimstone. (read... Gilbert Morris)
This book definitely receives a solid thumbs up from me.
October 9, 2011
Kingscote is the final book in the Heart of India trilogy. Jace and Coral are working desperately to find her son and protect Coral from mysterious threats. Not only is her life threatened, her family's plantation and livelihood is as well. Coral and Jace race against the clock to find her son and use him to prevent a devasting war.
By far, this is my favorite of all three. Love love love it. I love how the characters have progressed. I love the history surrounding the characters. I enjoyed that while it was an inspirational novel, it wasn't overly so.
By far, this is my favorite of all three. Love love love it. I love how the characters have progressed. I love the history surrounding the characters. I enjoyed that while it was an inspirational novel, it wasn't overly so.
May 7, 2022
Re-read 5/7/22
A wonderful walk down memory lane not without its issues.
Strengths:
-Lush setting
-Great characters (Gokul, especially, is hilarious)
-Mostly great romance (got a little gushy in the third book)
Weaknesses:
-All that passive voice!
-Exclamation points instead of question marks
-Feels overwrought at times
A wonderful walk down memory lane not without its issues.
Strengths:
-Lush setting
-Great characters (Gokul, especially, is hilarious)
-Mostly great romance (got a little gushy in the third book)
Weaknesses:
-All that passive voice!
-Exclamation points instead of question marks
-Feels overwrought at times
April 22, 2015
The wonderful conclusion to this series was very satisfying. Exciting and interesting. The characters are so believable and real, which I appreciate greatly. One of my favorite series that I will continue to read over and over again.
January 24, 2017
Great climax to the series. While the second book had some slow parts, this book is a page-turner from start to finish. Lots woven into this book from the first and second in the series. Great fun and a great read.
August 7, 2009
I thought this was a good series. The historical portions of the book were pretty interesting, and it gave me a desire to learn more about world religions.
December 27, 2010
EXCELLENT! Suspenseful, good plot, excellent writing, twisting ideas good
February 7, 2011
Enjoyed this three-book series; "Kingscote" is the conclusion. Intrigue, slight romance, cultural and most definitely faith-filled.
April 1, 2013
I just love a happy ending <3
November 1, 2013
Loved the book! Thank you Linda Chaikin for a great trilogy, and a great conclusion of the Heart of India's Serie! We are blessed by your ministry!
October 31, 2013
Third book in the Heart of India trilogy(:
March 1, 2016
Excellent - mystery and romance fill Kingscote.
March 3, 2023
See review for book 1
did-not-finish-series
February 25, 2021I couldn’t finish this book. I couldn’t get into it. I liked the first book years ago, but maybe my tastes have changed.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews