The Best of Intentions

Canadian Crossings #1

by Susan Anne Mason

In the aftermath of tragedy, Grace hopes to reclaim her nephew from the relatives who rejected her sister because of her class. Under an alias, she becomes her nephew's nanny to observe the formidable family up close. Unexpectedly, she begins to fall for the boy's guardian, who is promised to another. Can Grace protect her nephew . . . and her heart?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Christian, Historical, Historical Romance

352 pages, Paperback

First published July 3, 2018

About the author

Susan writes both contemporary and historical Inspirational romances. She describes her writing style as “Romance sprinkled with faith” and loves themes of forgiveness and redemption!

She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and a former member of the Romance Writers of America. M

Susan lives near Toronto in Ontario, Canada with her husband and two adult children. She loves chocolate and wine and isn't partial to snow even though she's Canadian!

Reviews

[Emma | meadowroselibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had my attention from the first sentence!! I've read some good books lately, but THIS!!! THIS does NOT EVEN COMPARE to those!!!!! 😱

The Best of Intentions was my first Susan Anne Mason, but you can be sure I'll be reading more!! I fell in love with the characters, the setting, everything!!

Grace left England to come to see her sister in Canada after not seeing her in years, to only be in a predicament once she gets there. This story is all about love, forgiveness, being unselfish, kindness, and finding the good in others and situations that you sometimes have no control over.

Andrew is one of those guys that just doesn't feel like he's good enough, good enough for his father. I loved seeing him overcome that, realizing he IS good enough, a worthy man that his father can be proud of.

I love it when a book (like this one) has two women, one who is exceptionally beautiful, and another who is more plain. But the guy sees the plain woman MORE beautiful, not just because of the way she looks in his eyes, but because her inward beauty just shines through. That was Grace. Grace was an amazing woman, who definitely had her faults, but she worked through her faults, baggage, and always turned to God for guidance. THAT'S the kind of woman I want to see in every book!

Virginia, too, was the sweetest, most kind woman ever! My heart just tore in two so many times for her. I thought her story by the end was just as sweet and wonderful as Grace's.

So overall, this is an AMAZING, uplifting, clean book that I would highly recommend for anyone!!

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love how the prologue pulled me in right away. I nearly stopped reading in the first couple of chapters because the plot appeared to be exactly the same as a prior novel. However, I'm glad I kept reading because I was soon fully engaged in Grace's story. She traveled from England to Canada to bring her sister and nephew home. Events didn't play out how she expected and she was forced to make new decisions.

While the novel isn't heavy on history, the author does a nice job of including period details to make the reader feel they've visited the setting.

This was a well told story and I look forward to the next novel in the Canadian Crossings Series.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book by this author, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! The chemistry between Andrew and Grace was perfect. The plot was interesting, even if some of the characters’ decisions were exasperating at times. I am glad that I found a new author to enjoy and look forward to her other books!

[Sydney · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was very tempted to just DNF but I decided to push through anyway and see if I could get it finished today in one sitting. I did not like this, unfortunately. I've been on a Downton Abbey kick so when the book started out strong, I was excited for a DA type of read. but once I hit about 45% into the book it really went downhill.

it read like a bad historical hallmark movie, which are fine to watch but I don’t like to read them. I like the premise but the execution was not how I wanted it to be. there is little plot outside of the romance, and the romance was not even that good... cringe, even. class distinctions of the time would have prevented a lot of the interactions and situations between Grace and Andrew, and the characters themselves felt bland. I wish there had been more “natural” interactions between them; reading this book felt like reading a dream, and I like historical books to be rooted in more reality. a governess/nanny would not eat dinner with the family. the war changed a lot, but not that much and not that quickly. she also would not be invited to balls, especially not so early in her employment. it would have added a lot more excitement if she had been treated like staff. i would have preferred a little excitement, maybe a little bit of sneaking around or just something to add interest to the plot. it was honestly boring because you didn’t have to wonder when Andrew and Grace would have time to spend together because she probably was going to be invited to some fancy dinner or ball.

there was also very little Christian content (the characters themselves didn't even act like Christians) but I don’t think it would have made the book better if it were present.

I did like the characters in the prologue so I might look at those later in the future, but there are other books I would prefer to read before those, I think.

[Malia Saldaña · Rating 2 out of 5]

I just couldn’t get into this book. The romance and characters were just not for me.

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the story and plot line. Plot was so original and enjoyed.

However, this book is definitely character driven. I really liked Grace. She went through a lot in her life, and it’s hard to say what one would do in her place. Truly liked Virginia as well.

Andrew is just between a rock and a hard place...his story is well done.

I really enjoy watching the characters grow throughout this novel, and I was drawn in to the time and place. The reader doesn’t get to know much about Virginia and her story, and I would have liked that.

I loved the characters, plot, and the faith theme in this book. The main characters are strong...and their faith tested. Definitely a book that will be on my forever shelves.

I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The earnest prayer echoed in Andrew’s heart, and for the first time in a long while, a measure of peace spread through him.

Only God can change a persons heart , Grace. All we have control over are our own feelings and actions.

This was the kind of love Virginia craved. Passionate, powerful, and at the same time, sanctioned by the Lord.

[HR-ML · Rating 1 out of 5]

Toronto 1919 & some flashbacks via letters received.

UK native Grace took a ship to Canada to see her widowed
sister Rose+ her baby. Rose was not keen on her in-laws
the Eastons who disowned Rose's late spouse. Upon her
arrival, Grace learned Rose had died of the Spanish flu.
So where was Rose's baby boy?

Grace, using an assumed name, became her nephew's live-
in nanny for the wealthy Eastons, whose son Andrew was
Guardian of the baby boy.

This story had about 6 Christian couples who were hung
up on money/ legacy, and business building. And most
hid or misrepresented his/ her true feelings. Could anyone
of them swim against the tide of family opinion & still feel
loved?

This cast came across as too: sanctimonious, manipulative
& thin on forgiveness & the MCs got lost in the shuffle.
Initial plans for the military veteran's gala showed coldness
& heartlessness. Over-pricing tickets to exclude veteran's?!
I doubt I'd read this author again. All faiths have a right to
their belief systems. But if these were considered role-model
Christians, I will take a pass.

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 3 out of 5]

About this book:

“She Swore to Protect Her Nephew at Any Cost. But What if That Price is a Chance at Love?
In the aftermath of WWI, Grace Abernathy is determined to reunite her family, crossing an ocean to convince her widowed sister to return home to England. Yet, in Toronto she discovers more tragedy--her nephew Christian in the custody of his paternal relatives, the formidable Easton family, who rejected Grace's sister because of her low social status.
Unconvinced the Eastons can be fitting caretakers, Grace uses an assumed name to secure the position of Christian's nanny and moves into the Easton estate. There she can observe the family up close, while ensuring Christian's well-being. In the course of her new role, she is shocked to find herself falling in love with Andrew Easton, the boy's guardian. Unfortunately, Andrew is promised to a spoiled socialite who is sure to make a terrible stepmother for Christian. Will Grace be able to protect her nephew . . . and her heart?”


Series: Book #1 in the “Canadian Crossings” series.


Spiritual Content- 2 Corinthians 12:9 at the beginning; Scriptures (from Song of Solomon) are read; Bible reading; Prayers & Thanking God; Talks about God, His will, & forgiveness; ‘H’s are capitalized when referring to God; Church going; Mentions of God & His will; Mentions of prayers, praying, & thanking God; Mentions of faiths; Mentions of Bibles & Bible reading; Mentions of churches, church going, services, choirs, & reverends; Mentions of Heaven; A few mentions of miracles; A few mentions of blessings; A couple mentions of godsends & Gods speed; A couple mentions of a cross necklace; A mention of a Christlike attitude;
*Note: a ‘how the devil’; A mention of one devil of a mess.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘bloomin’’; A bit of eye rolling; Pain & Injuries; Grace lies about her connect to Christian; Many mentions of a war, fighting, injuries, & deaths; Mentions of an accident & drowning; Mentions of illnesses & deaths; Mentions of thieves, stealing, & being arrested; Mentions of hatred; Mentions of deception, lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of gossips; Mentions of alcohol & drinking (Andrew drinks a cocktail in a social setting, but does not enjoy it); Mentions of tobacco & cigars; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of criminals.


Sexual Content- an almost (barely-above-not-detailed) kiss, two hand kisses, four cheek kisses, three not-detailed kisses, five barely-above-not-detailed kisses, three semi-detailed kisses, a detailed kiss, and three very detailed kiss; Remembering kisses (semi-detailed to detailed); Wanting to kiss & touch (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Hand holding, & Dancing (up to semi-detailed); Noticing, Nearness, & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Blushes; a ‘whore’; A man tries to hit on Grace; Mentions of compromising situations & ruined reputations (and paying someone to seduce another); Mentions of kissing & kisses; Mentions of taken liberties; Mentions of a man’s possessive manner; Mentions of flirting & winks; A few mentions of wanting to have children right after getting married (including a mention of kisses and more that’s involved in that process); A couple mentions of a playboy; A couple mentions of jealousy; Love, falling in love, being in love, & the emotions (x2);
*Note: A mention of a dress bordering on risqué.

-Grace Abernathy
-Andrew Easton
P.O.V. switches between them & Virginia
Set in 1919
347 pages

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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One and a half / Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Two and a half / Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two and a half / Three Stars
For my personal library readathon, this was one of the books I decided to take a chance on. I had read this author’s debut book in 2015 and because of lack of character development and some content, I did not enjoy it at all. Needless to say, even though this new novel had on of my favorite tropes (mistaken identities) in it, I was still nervous.
The first half of this book started out pretty strong in my eyes, it definitely had me interested and curious to see how it would finish. There was a good amount of Spiritual Content and faiths too, that I liked seeing. Unfortunately, exactly half-way through the book it became very kissy and continued that way until the very end. Had those very detailed and detailed kisses not shown up, I think I could have given this book a higher rating. I did have a slight problem with the whole “male-lead's-current-girlfriend-being-awful-because-we-are-supposed-to-hate-her” trope. It’s very common, but still disappointing to see.
I may try to finish this series, but I do hope that they will have less kissing scenes.


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.

[Sana⁷ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just realized that I did not add this book to my read ones yet and I've read it in 2020! This was actually a good book and I remember it quite fondly (the other two from this series are forgettable), that's why I've started to read another series by the same author. I do like the pairing in this book and the story is very touching - it's exactly what I needed at that time. I think that I will come back to this book someday ☺️




Canadian Crossings - my rating:
The Best of Intentions: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
The Highest of Hopes: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
The Brightest of Dreams: ⭐⭐ (2/5)

[Joleen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wow! Can there be a story more full of lies, manipulation and overreactions? All the main characters are supposed to be Christians, but not one truly honors God. The gardener, the pastor and the ex-landlady (minor characters) are the only ones who seem to take their faith seriously.

************************************************

I just wrote a scathing review in detail, and decided to cut it out. It’s enough to write that I did not like this book at all.

Three stars because it kept my interest, but down to two stars because of the way the "Christians" act throughout. I would not recommend this book.

[Carrie Turansky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this English and Canadian historical romance by Susan Mason. The characters were unique and interesting. Though Grace made some mistakes, I found myself cheering for her as the story progressed. Andrew became a worthy hero after he finally realized what was most important in his life. I liked seeing how they both changed and grew through the events of the story. Well done and highly recommended!

[Kellyn Roth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what to think going in, but it ended up packed with heart and awesome! The romance was sweet and clean and not too predictable (which is a huge thing for a book of this genre), and the side plots were cool. Christian was so sweet! I liked Ginny and Collin a lot, too, and the reverend.

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grace Abernathy has left England for Ontario Canada to help her sister with her new baby after her husband perished in World War 1. She arrives to find that her sister has passed, and her baby boy has been given to the wealthy family of her sister's husband who disowned him when he married someone they considered lower class. Grace manages to get a job as Christian's nanny, but she does not reveal her relationship to him to the Easton family.

A dysfunctional family led by an autocratic father and husband, adult children being forced into attachments at their father's demands, and those same children having feelings for people whom their father thought were below their station, all kept this story moving. Grace was the pivotal factor that finally brought this family back together along with the adorable baby Christian.

I thoroughly enjoyed the setting for this story as it took place in Toronto Ontario where both my parents were born and raised and where we traveled every summer to see my grandparents. Mason did an excellent job of describing this wonderful city. I also thought the letters from Grace's sister at the beginning of each chapter gave a view of events as she fell in love and got married as well as an interesting perspective of the Easton family.

[Linda Klager · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Susan Anne Mason for the free book. I enjoyed reading the story of Grace and Andrew. There were many obstacles they had to overcome. It must have been very hard to have lost a loved one during World War I and then came the Spanish Flu that wiped out many lives.

It was very difficult for the Easton family to get over their son's death, but Grace had to overcome more than her share of sadness. Also, Grace needed to venture from her homeland.

Through it all, Grace showed grace and kindness. She was a very strong woman.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mason does an excellent job of writing family dramas—the first series of hers that I read was about the O’Leary family, and the next novel was a standalone about a complex family tree, hidden for years. This book begins a new series, but the relationships within and between these families are both complicated and difficult. The result is an engrossing read that kept me turning pages and hoping for a happy ending, even as I couldn’t see how it could realistically happen.

I think most people will readily sympathize with the two main characters. I could relate to Grace in many ways—though I have thankfully not been burdened by guilt to this extreme, I could imagine how regrets and fear might take hold and lead to disastrous choices. Andrew’s difficulties are not the same, but he is no less burdened by the heavy familial duty he places on himself.

There is a lot in this book about perception, how we see others and how they see us. When feelings are hurt and pride gets in the way, relationships suffer. But I absolutely loved how this book shows that it doesn’t have to be a permanent condition; though not easy, resolution and restoration are possible. We have far more in common with each other than we know.

I really enjoyed this story of family, of misunderstandings, and of reconciliation. This is an engaging novel and an emotional beginning to the Canadian Crossings series. The characters are relatable and the setting is unique without being too far removed from other historical locales. I look forward to reading Emmaline’s story next, and hopefully there is a book in the works for Quinn as well!

I received a review copy of this book from the author and publisher but was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed are both honest and my own.

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one has pleasant characters and good prose, but very little meat to the plot. While I found it easy to read from the POVs of Grace and Andrew, I grew frustrated at Andrew and his sister for their love triangles (yes, there are two of those in this novel) and their toying with "commitments" to both of their love interests (both siblings have a "should" and a "want" and though the "should" is clearly wrong for them, the "want" is also given promises/kisses/declarations of love...during engagements to the "shoulds"--really annoying for me though I really liked the characters otherwise). And yet Andrew is supposedly a "man of honor" while stringing along two girls at the same time.

There's also a lack of a faith thread. Grace apparently reads her Bible and prays often, but there's no indication of the state of Andrew's soul and that made me feel like something was really missing in what should be a Christian novel.

I loved the setting in Toronto of 1919 and some of the descriptions of the different sights the characters see. Baby Christian is also really sweet.

Overall, a mostly-fun light read that's clean and has very little religious content.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to come! :)

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Best Of Intentions by Susan Anne Mason is a perfectly charming historical novel and the first book in the Canadian Crossings series.
The setting is 1919 as the world recovers from World War I and the Spanish flu epidemic which followed. So many families suffered losses.
The novel is about fulfilling a sister’s wishes and caring for her baby son. Babies have the capacity to soften hearts and help to heal losses.
There are the themes of guilt and earning love from a parent. One young man has been forever in his brother’s shadow, trying to earn the affections of his father. Now he feels guilty because he is the one left living when he knows he is his father’s second choice. The reader is reminded that God loves us all equally. There are no favourites in God’s Kingdom, neither do we need to earn His love. God loves each and every one of us unconditionally.
1919 saw a new world emerging but some still cling to the old order of things – marriages were alliances of wealth and status rather than for love. It takes courage to break away from this.
The characters are delightful. They are warm and welcoming, their interactions are charming. There are friendships that cross class divides as hearts are drawn to another.
I really loved The Best Of Intentions. I could not put it down and devoured it in just two sittings – only pausing to sleep! I am looking forward to the subsequent books.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

[JaneReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved these main characters and felt their anguish. Grace arrives in Toronto to some terrible news and then needs to make a decision on what she is going to do. A lie allows her an opportunity she couldn't imagine having without the lie. Someone tells her early on, 'Nothing but heartache will come from this.', and they were correct. Virginia and Andrew come from a family with money and feel like they have certain expectations placed on them and struggle with aligning those expectations to how they imagine their future. I loved Virginia from the moment her and Grace met. I was extremely proud of her when she stood up for herself and acted on what she wanted rather than following who her parents wanted her to marry. I kept hoping Andrew would wise up and follow Virginia's lead. I don't encourage lying, but with Grace in such a difficult situation, I understood how she couldn't see any other way. I did not want to put this book down, and I had to know what was going to happen. Could there be a way for harmony to exist? Faith is interspersed throughout the story, and Grace especially leans on God for wisdom. Each time a character stood up for themselves or another person, I was proud of them. The clearing of the air between father and son near the end made me like that character much more than I did before. My two negatives are one - I feel like the ending wrapped up too quickly. And second, the prologe didn't seem to add anything to the story. I did really enjoy watching people from different status classes come together and erase the social norms of the day.

[Beth | Faithfully Bookish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review on FaithfullyBookish.com

Grace is a hardworking, dutiful daughter and devoted sister. She entangles herself in a sticky web of half-truths and secrets kept... with the best of intentions, of course. I can sympathize and even justify Grace's choices but only to an extent. Andrew, while far from perfect, is between two rocks (perhaps three) and a hard place thanks to a string of unfortunate events and familial expectations.

When you read hundreds of books each year like I do, it's to be expected that an occasional book falls prey to a bad mood or triggers an unfortunate memory. That's, unfortunately, the case for me and The Best of Intentions. However, my own lackluster experience with this story won't keep me from reading the following books in this series and I do recommend it, especially to readers who don't have my odd communication pet peeve.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Rebekah Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite novel from Mason by far! Great plot, great characters, and an on point romance. This is the first historical fiction novel that I have read where Canada was the setting, which intrigued me. The story kept me interested and wanting more the whole way through. I didn't want the story to end! I was hoping the 2nd story in the series was a continuation of Grace & Andrew's story but it is not. I hope it lives up to this novel! I am glad I took a chance on this novel from Mason, as the last one I read from her was simply average.

I loved the snippits of Roses' letters at the beginning of Grace's chapters! They really helped to shape the story and add to Grace's development. I was pleasantly surprised that the ending was as wonderful as it was! Many novels I have read in the past few months are great, and then an abrupt ending ruins the novel for me. The Best of Intentions left me with a smile & a sigh, which is rare! Can't wait to read #2 in the series.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I read this book the title became more and more obvious of the, little white lies, or big ones, I could understand the author putting Grace in the position of wanting to fulfill her sister’s wishes and also wanting to be in life of this young child.
I found myself quickly page turning as we become involved in these characters lives, some you will quickly come to love and others, the old saying “if you can’t say something nice, don’t say nothing at all”, sure comes to mind.
It has been one hundred years since WWI and the horrible Spanish Flu, and it is quickly fading from memories, I love that there are stories that help keep alive what this past generation went through and thank the author for bringing it to the forefront.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series, and hope to catch up on the lives of those we have already met.

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I checked this book out from the library as soon as it arrived. The Best of Intentions is a lovely story. From the prelude to the end, adventure awaits! This was my first Susan Anne Mason book but not my last. Her expertise in drawing me into the story with exquisite detail, lively and engaging dialogue, and sweet romance will keep me coming back.

[English · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sweet little story set just after WW1 in Canada. Its a nice clean romance providing an interesting exploration of the impact of trauma, war and loss on families. A perfectly nice, light, uplifting read that's not too taxing. The characters are good and well-drawn, even if the hero and heroine are a little on the side of Saccharine.

There's just one or two things that irked me. First of, why is it that in almost all marriage of convenience stories, or stories which look like there is going to be a marriage of convenience the prospective marriage partner (i.e the one which the hero or heroine is not in love with), is always superlatively bad or horrible? I mean is it because the marriage is not 'for love' and because the parties are not meant to be together?

I'm sorry, but to me, that just doesn't seem very realistic. Just because x does not absolutely love that person why do they have to be absolutely horrible, cruel, callous and selfish with no redeeming features at all. Oh and of course, they almost invariably turn out to be impious or not good Christians. So a character's personality is determined by their relationship to the protagonist: basically. I suppose this can apply to a lot of novels of this genre, not just this one in particular.

The other thing was really a technicality. I was seriously wondering whether a telegram addressed simply to one 'Helen Abernathy' in 'Sussex' would actually reach its destination. Didn't telegrams have to have more specifics details or destinations? I mean Abernathy is a fairly common surname, and so I'm pretty sure there would have been several people with that surname living in Sussex in 1920.

Altogether, The Best of Intentions is a perfectly good story with which to while away an afternoon or a long journey. Or just if you want a feelgood Romance story. I did like it, and its my second book by this author, so I would certainly read more by her. Its just some of the tropes of this genre which I'm perhaps getting a bit tired of.

I requested this title from the Publisher via Netgalley and purchased the audio-book of my own volition. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

Susan Anne Mason has crafted a heart-warming historical tale set in Canada in 1919, one with unexpected plot twists, a dash of romance, and characters you will surely grow to admire. Now, being Canadian myself, it's possible that I am somewhat biased towards immediately liking this novel simply because of the wonderful setting the story takes place in. But I can assure all readers, no matter their nationality, that this is a tale that you are not going to want to miss. You can't help but feel for Grace as her trip across the ocean finds her making discoveries that completely upend her plans, embarking her on a journey she never saw coming. I really appreciated that she is a character who is far from perfect, one who stumbles in doing what she feels God has called her to do but who grows tremendously over the course of the story. I dare say that most of us would make the exact same sort of choices she did, and I am thankful that God's grace meets us in the midst of our mistakes! Although I am not drawn to purely romantic stories, the love that grows between Grace and Andrew feels natural and right and is a joy to read about. If we are honest with ourselves, I think we all long for a little bit of happily-ever-after in the books we pick up, and Mason delivers with "The Best of Intentions", leaving me with a sense of joy as I turned the final page of the novel. I don't want to give anything away, so you will need to grab a copy for yourself if you want to see how things resolve for Grace and her run-in with the formidable Easton family!

The Canadian Crossings series is off to a fine start with this first offering, and if this novel is any indication, these novels are going to not only please Mason's current fans but attract a whole new set of admirers at the same time. I award this book a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, and look forward to what is next in store for this Canadian series!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The first book in the Canadian Crossings Series. And maybe it was because I'm Canadian, and the author is too...? It is always nice when you're familiar with the landmarks, and everything Canadian. Don't get me wrong you can still enjoy it even if you're not from Canada :). It's just left me feeling a little patriotic, and so proud of the characters for doing so well! I know it's just fiction.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Best of Intentions by Susan Anne Mason is the first in the series: Canadian Crossings.

In 1919, Grace Abernathy travels to Toronto, Canada to fetch her widowed sister, Rose, and infant nephew, Christian, back to their mother in England. Dire circumstances greet her. Rose has fallen ill and died and Christian is with his paternal grandparents, a family far above Grace in society. Since Rose was rejected by her in-laws, Grace wants to make sure her nephew is loved and well cared for.
Andrew Easton is guardian to young Christian and he, too, wants the best for his baby nephew.
Grace dares to get close to the baby. What will happen when her true identity is revealed? Will her purpose change to one of protector? Can Grace and Andrew look beyond the surface and see the best of intentions of the other?

This story shows real struggles of faith, motivation and learning to trust God for the best outcome. It also shows how the social classes begin to break down following Workd War I.
The writing is wonderfully authentic. The setting puts you right in the story. The side characters and their stories add so much to the atmosphere of the book.

I would recommend this book to historical fiction fans who want a Canadian perspective of the aftermath of World War I or just want to enjoy a good historical yarn. I will be looking out for the next book in the series.

*I received this book from the publisher, Bethany House, on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

[Kami S · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up
This one started out pretty slow for me.. But after about 50% in I really started to enjoy it and it did have a nice ending.
Btw, the prologue introduces 2 other people whom you never see again in this story. They are the main characters of the next 2 books in this series. Which I do plan on reading. This author was enjoyable to read, even if it was rather slow.

[Trixi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I admire Grace’s determination in fulfilling her promise to her ill mother. Not knowing what will happen on the other side of the ocean & facing the Easton’s who rejected her sister Rose is a mighty bold move in my mind. What she finds on the other end is not what she expected when she finds tragedy that scatters her plans awry! Even more bold, is obtaining the nanny position under the guise of an assumed name. Knowing the risk of the family finding out who she is, she’s forges forward in the desire to get to know her young nephew. Upon meeting Christian’s uncle & guardian, Andrew, the picture she had in mind is not what reality is. She quickly finds her heart tangling in feelings she doesn’t know what to do with. Not only is he handsome, but he truly cares for the boy and will do what is needed to care & provide for him. Along with the rest of the Easton family who’ve lost too much already--Mr. and Mrs. a son, Virginia aka Ginny, a brother. I think having Christian around is helping their hearts heal and Grace soon finds this to be true the more she observes them.

This is a story of how all of these things play out. For me, it was chock full of emotion both happy & sad. My heart went out to both Grace and Andrew as they struggled with regret, guilt, remorse and feelings of not being enough, especially when it comes to their parents. Also how there were many reminders that in spite of human feelings, they are always enough in the eyes of God and nothing will dampen His love for them. I really love how this came together and how it kept me engrossed in it. When you pick up a book to read and it’s as if you’ve literally stepped into the pages and feel a part of everything going on you know it’s a good one! I couldn’t help but feel like the characters were people I would like to get to know…though Cecilia tried my patience on more than one occasion. She’s the spoiled socialite. If I could have reached through the pages to shake some sense into Andrew, I would have! Grace is the epitome of her name; gentle, graceful, never afraid to speak the truth in love and softhearted. She’s everyone’s friend and feels things deeply. Andrew is the swoon-worthy hero, though he struggles with regret and trying to prove himself to his father. He’s loyal to his family and will do the right thing, even risking losing his own happiness for family obligation. But we all know you can’t fight true love and when it comes knocking on their doors, will they have the courage to open it?

Emotional and gripping, you don’t want to miss this! I can’t express how much depth this holds and all the layers the reader unfolds as the pages fly through your fingers. Susan Anne Mason is a master of telling stories that touch your heart and feed your soul at the same time. It left me smiling and wanting more and I can’t wait until the next book in the Canadian Crossing series!

P.S. It was fascinating to learn about Canada's Dominion Day, July 1st. Seems to be much like our own Fourth of July celebration with family activities and fireworks to end the day with. Probably called Canada day in today's modern world! How fun to learn history through fiction.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House publishers on behalf of the author and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions are my own*

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

It certainly had it's good aspects, but some things just didn't sit well for me.
I do like that Virginia is also a devoted aunt, willing to sacrifice her future happiness for Christian. I'm not sure I liked Colin, he seemed a little moody for me. And forceful.
I understand why, I guess, but Andrew kissing Grace while still acting possessive of Celia is wrong. You can't toy with both women that way. As much as Celia is painted the villain, I felt bad for her. Her first fiance runs off with an employee. Her second fiance is also in love with an employee, and even jilts her at the alter. Yes, she was a difficult woman. However, she shows a willingness to stand by her man and work hard. Her assumptions about Christian, while I don't agree with them, would be reasonable of the time. It's not like she was planning to send him to boarding school and then have a loving, close relationship with her own children. They were all going to be raised elsewhere. I think I would act out if I couldn't marry the man I loved and my second fiance was playing with me. She doesn't pretend they were marrying for love.
I find it a little odd Frank, Andrew, and Virginia were engaged to people who didn't want kids? That's a pretty modern position. Most of that time would just do the expected.
I thought Andrew was a bit selfish really. Of course it would be painful to be lied to, but you're lying to your fiance so....and Grace is righting a wrong. You are just pursuing things you want. Maybe if I liked him more, if he wasn't so full of righteous indignation all the time, I'd rate it higher.