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Sonnets of the Spice Isle #1-6
On the Wings of a Whisper Collection
Stone Town, Zanzibar, Early 1866
RyAnne Hunter is determined to stop her father from leaving for the continent of Africa, where he plans to start a mission station. And she only has until morning. Tonight at the Harcourts' Annual Ball will be her last chance to change his mind. She must succeed! Papa's health, and her future, depend on her success. But, as if her task isn't difficult enough, now the insufferable Captain Dawson has agreed to guide Papa's expedition!
After spending six months at sea, Captain Trent Dawson only wants to think about rest and relaxation. However, when he's recruited by a British naval officer to help put an end to a slave smuggling ring, the perfect opportunity presents itself in Dr. Hunter, who needs a guide to the Interior. Now if he can just help the doctor without spending too much time with the man's troublesome and flighty youngest daughter.
A thrilling historical romance from the time of missionary explorer David Livingstone.
RyAnne Hunter is determined to stop her father from leaving for the continent of Africa, where he plans to start a mission station. And she only has until morning. Tonight at the Harcourts' Annual Ball will be her last chance to change his mind. She must succeed! Papa's health, and her future, depend on her success. But, as if her task isn't difficult enough, now the insufferable Captain Dawson has agreed to guide Papa's expedition!
After spending six months at sea, Captain Trent Dawson only wants to think about rest and relaxation. However, when he's recruited by a British naval officer to help put an end to a slave smuggling ring, the perfect opportunity presents itself in Dr. Hunter, who needs a guide to the Interior. Now if he can just help the doctor without spending too much time with the man's troublesome and flighty youngest daughter.
A thrilling historical romance from the time of missionary explorer David Livingstone.
- GenresHistoricalChristian
462 pages, Paperback
Published December 3, 2016
About the author
Lynnette Bonner
76 books422 followersLYNNETTE BONNER, the daughter of missionaries, was born and raised in Malawi, Africa, graduated high school from Rift Valley Academy, a boarding school in Kenya, and attended Northwest University in Washington, where she met her husband, Marty. A few years after their marriage, they moved to Pierce, Idaho. While studying the history of their little town, Lynnette was inspired to begin The Shepherd’s Heart Series with Rocky Mountain Oasis.
Marty and Lynnette have four children and currently live in Washington, where Marty pastors a church.
Marty and Lynnette have four children and currently live in Washington, where Marty pastors a church.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 31, 2025
I cannot believe I have not read anything by this author before now! I learned of this book through a video shared by my aunt, and was determined to get it. Then learned that it was available to me right now!
Set in Zanzibar and surroundings, I appreciated this story initially because this was similar to where I grew up. As I read more, my heart was broken that I never knew this history of slavery. Fiction it is, but based on actual happenings during the time of David Livingstone.
I also appreciate this book because it is CLEAN. I had no need to be concerned that I would have to skip several pages of steamy episodes. I can safely recommend this book (and I hear Ms Bonner's other books are the same) to my children and grandchildren.
And, lastly, I so appreciated the author's references to God and his love. She does not insert God into the book every once in awhile, just so it can be considered 'christian', as other authors do. She is not pushy, it's a way of life. God is truly at work, even when we do not see it.
Set in Zanzibar and surroundings, I appreciated this story initially because this was similar to where I grew up. As I read more, my heart was broken that I never knew this history of slavery. Fiction it is, but based on actual happenings during the time of David Livingstone.
I also appreciate this book because it is CLEAN. I had no need to be concerned that I would have to skip several pages of steamy episodes. I can safely recommend this book (and I hear Ms Bonner's other books are the same) to my children and grandchildren.
And, lastly, I so appreciated the author's references to God and his love. She does not insert God into the book every once in awhile, just so it can be considered 'christian', as other authors do. She is not pushy, it's a way of life. God is truly at work, even when we do not see it.
Want to Read
January 12, 2026 Songs of Spice Isle #1-6
1866; Zanzibar, Africa; RyAnne Hunter, Captain Trent Dawson
#1: On the Wings of a Whisper ?* ?/?-?/? (?)
#2: Lay Down Your Heart ?* ?/?-?/? (?)
#3: Made Perfect in Weakness ?* ?/?-?/? (?)
#4: A Walk through the Waters ?* ?/?-?/? (?)
#5: The Trail of Chains ?* ?/?-?/? (?)
#6: The Joy of the Morning ?* ?/?-?/? (?)
*
1866; Zanzibar, Africa; RyAnne Hunter, Captain Trent Dawson
#1: On the Wings of a Whisper ?* ?/?-?/? (?)
#2: Lay Down Your Heart ?* ?/?-?/? (?)
#3: Made Perfect in Weakness ?* ?/?-?/? (?)
#4: A Walk through the Waters ?* ?/?-?/? (?)
#5: The Trail of Chains ?* ?/?-?/? (?)
#6: The Joy of the Morning ?* ?/?-?/? (?)
*
February 23, 2026
read for encouragement & enlightenment
First read on the subject of slavery, the author gave a glimpse into the trade by and bravery of some. Her ability to weave faith and personal struggles were realistic which left my own faith challenged and encouraged. Send me.
First read on the subject of slavery, the author gave a glimpse into the trade by and bravery of some. Her ability to weave faith and personal struggles were realistic which left my own faith challenged and encouraged. Send me.
February 23, 2026
4.5 stars- This is my first read by Lynnette Bonner and I really enjoyed it. I thought it was well done and very moving.
March 6, 2026
I love this historical fiction about romance, danger, and following God’s call in your life. I want to read more books by Lynette Bonner. I hope this book can be made into a movie one day!!!
January 30, 2019
Sonnets of the Spice Isle is a historical romance series by author Lynnette Bonner. There are six episodes and each episode opens with a Scripture. The setting for episode 1 is Zanzibar – 1866.
My favorite character was RyAnne Hunter who wanted to abolish slavery and went to great measures to do so. She also wanted her people to know the one true God.
This series had some really emotional parts dealing with a slave smuggling ring but was also a series of faith and hope. I’m certain the reader will find this series a page-turner as I did. During one episode I learned that pinching-ant pinchers were used to close wounds, in Belgian Congo, until the 1940’s and 50’s.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
My favorite character was RyAnne Hunter who wanted to abolish slavery and went to great measures to do so. She also wanted her people to know the one true God.
This series had some really emotional parts dealing with a slave smuggling ring but was also a series of faith and hope. I’m certain the reader will find this series a page-turner as I did. During one episode I learned that pinching-ant pinchers were used to close wounds, in Belgian Congo, until the 1940’s and 50’s.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
December 20, 2021
Wonderful Story!
Wow! I loved RyAnne's journey! I read inspirational for the very reason... Inspiration. And this book delivers! I've read "Christian" novels before that only inject a scripture now and then as a side note. This book shows you that through each trial in life.... look to Christ. This book is beautifully written! I could not wait to see how things and situations would unfold. There are so many lessons in this book, but also it has a wonderful storyline and history well researched. This is not a candy coated romance novel. You have it all in this book. History, romance, suspense, humor. I highly recommend this book and I can honestly say I will remember this journey with RyAnne and Capitan Dawson and what I gleaned from God's Word for a long time.
Wow! I loved RyAnne's journey! I read inspirational for the very reason... Inspiration. And this book delivers! I've read "Christian" novels before that only inject a scripture now and then as a side note. This book shows you that through each trial in life.... look to Christ. This book is beautifully written! I could not wait to see how things and situations would unfold. There are so many lessons in this book, but also it has a wonderful storyline and history well researched. This is not a candy coated romance novel. You have it all in this book. History, romance, suspense, humor. I highly recommend this book and I can honestly say I will remember this journey with RyAnne and Capitan Dawson and what I gleaned from God's Word for a long time.
November 29, 2024
Wow what a story! Due to the serious and tragic history taking place in this book, its hard to say I enjoyed it, but it was a very good and interesting book that provided a look into the slave trade. It was truly heartbreaking to see what slaves went through and this gave a different look as it shows what was happening in Africa. There was lots of danger and high stakes and the history seemed well researched and shown in an honest way. I liked the characters, although RyAnne got on my nerves a little at first. I came to love them all though and enjoyed watching them grow in their faith. I'd like to read more from this author.
December 19, 2020
WOW!
One of the best stories I've ever read! Lynnette has such a wonderful way of writing that makes it very easy to picture the scenes in your mind - both the heart-warming ones and the horrifically tragic. Her love of Jesus is evident and I'm very grateful that she has shared that love, along with the talent God has given her, with the world! I thank you Lynnette, and look forward to reading the rest of your books!
One of the best stories I've ever read! Lynnette has such a wonderful way of writing that makes it very easy to picture the scenes in your mind - both the heart-warming ones and the horrifically tragic. Her love of Jesus is evident and I'm very grateful that she has shared that love, along with the talent God has given her, with the world! I thank you Lynnette, and look forward to reading the rest of your books!
November 16, 2022
Better Than I Could Do
This book was strongly recommended to me. I liked the characters okay, but they were rather predictable, as was the story line. I wanted to love it and them, but couldn't quite get there. Interesting subject matter, but needed less romance and more character.
This book was strongly recommended to me. I liked the characters okay, but they were rather predictable, as was the story line. I wanted to love it and them, but couldn't quite get there. Interesting subject matter, but needed less romance and more character.
April 26, 2025
High praise for on the Wings of a Whisper!!
This book is so inspiring and informative. Lynette Bonner spent a lot of time researching and pouring her heart into this book. If you start it, you you will definitely have a hard time putting this book down. It’s captivating and God inspired. I loved this book. Thank you for all your hard work Lynette Bonner.
This book is so inspiring and informative. Lynette Bonner spent a lot of time researching and pouring her heart into this book. If you start it, you you will definitely have a hard time putting this book down. It’s captivating and God inspired. I loved this book. Thank you for all your hard work Lynette Bonner.
June 19, 2025
Masterful Storytelling
This is my first Lynette Bonner novel and I am so impressed. The story was not at all what I expected. Much grittier and more serious, but if you have read and liked Francine Rivers “The Mark of the Lion” series then I have no doubt you will enjoy this story.
This is my first Lynette Bonner novel and I am so impressed. The story was not at all what I expected. Much grittier and more serious, but if you have read and liked Francine Rivers “The Mark of the Lion” series then I have no doubt you will enjoy this story.
December 20, 2021
Christian Fiction
One of my favorite series. Tales of hardship and trials but faith in God that brought them through. I would recommend to anyone liking Christian Historical Fiction
One of my favorite series. Tales of hardship and trials but faith in God that brought them through. I would recommend to anyone liking Christian Historical Fiction
September 20, 2024
Great Book! Five Stars ⭐️
I love this book and part of the reason was because of where it took place. It was something totally new and unusual to me and I totally enjoyed it. Couldn’t put it down. It also gave me insight into how horrible life was for slaves.
I love this book and part of the reason was because of where it took place. It was something totally new and unusual to me and I totally enjoyed it. Couldn’t put it down. It also gave me insight into how horrible life was for slaves.
August 4, 2025
wings of a whisper.
I loved, loved this book. I lived in Kenya for 4 yrs. teaching in a boys school. I grew to love the people and enjoyed learning about the history. I had heard of slavery existing many yrs ago. It is a book I will share with my friends.
I loved, loved this book. I lived in Kenya for 4 yrs. teaching in a boys school. I grew to love the people and enjoyed learning about the history. I had heard of slavery existing many yrs ago. It is a book I will share with my friends.
June 13, 2019
I just loved this series!!!
Read
February 23, 2021Historically captivating!
Very good read!
If you enjoy historical fiction you will be glad you read this book. Just the amount of suspense to keep the pages turning.
Very good read!
If you enjoy historical fiction you will be glad you read this book. Just the amount of suspense to keep the pages turning.
May 21, 2024
Great clean romance.
Clean and so well written! I loved the story all of it. The adventure and love. Best book I’ve read in a long time.
Clean and so well written! I loved the story all of it. The adventure and love. Best book I’ve read in a long time.
May 31, 2025
Amazing read!
This book was full of suspense, love, social issues, human rights issue, hidtorical issues and above all faith in God through it all. I have found a favorite author.
This book was full of suspense, love, social issues, human rights issue, hidtorical issues and above all faith in God through it all. I have found a favorite author.
July 12, 2025
Awesome read
This is one of the best books I've ever read and I read a lot! Lynette is a great story teller!
This is one of the best books I've ever read and I read a lot! Lynette is a great story teller!
August 23, 2025
Good Read
I love reading Christian inspired books with history. Characters were very inspiring and was a good romance also. Thank you.
I love reading Christian inspired books with history. Characters were very inspiring and was a good romance also. Thank you.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews