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The Songbird and the Secret
When Katharina Simeon makes a secret promise, she never stops to wonder what consequences may come of it. Yet 200 years later, far from her home in 18th century England, that very promise is carried across time and the Atlantic to rest upon her descendant...
Melissa Benjamin discovers her eleventh great grandmother's journal while researching her senior history project. Sent down a path she never imagined venturing, Katharina's intriguing story leads Melissa on a quest to find the parents she's never known even as she unravels a secret spanning generations. During her search, history buff and schoolgirl crush, Tom Berington, offers to help… but will his aid come at a price too high to pay? And what secrets of his own is Tom hiding?
The Songbird and the Secret is a blend of historical and contemporary Christian fiction sweeping from 18th century England to pre-Revolutionary America, onward to life today. As the reader discovers Katharina's thrilling story along with Melissa, a mysterious tale weaves together the lives of these two women separated by hundreds of years but joined through an ancient family secret. When each is faced with heartrending disappointment, will she cling to the one who loves her unconditionally?
Melissa Benjamin discovers her eleventh great grandmother's journal while researching her senior history project. Sent down a path she never imagined venturing, Katharina's intriguing story leads Melissa on a quest to find the parents she's never known even as she unravels a secret spanning generations. During her search, history buff and schoolgirl crush, Tom Berington, offers to help… but will his aid come at a price too high to pay? And what secrets of his own is Tom hiding?
The Songbird and the Secret is a blend of historical and contemporary Christian fiction sweeping from 18th century England to pre-Revolutionary America, onward to life today. As the reader discovers Katharina's thrilling story along with Melissa, a mysterious tale weaves together the lives of these two women separated by hundreds of years but joined through an ancient family secret. When each is faced with heartrending disappointment, will she cling to the one who loves her unconditionally?
477 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 10, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 21, 2018
What a lovely read! One of my favorite aspects was the way it spanned from the 1700s to modern times. This gave it such a colorful and broad spectrum. And it was done well! Janton made each time period feel real and alive. I also enjoyed the mystery, it kept me interested and my mind was constantly trying to solve it.
There were quite a few characters which can sometimes be confusing, but in this instance, each different part of the story was kept clear. The characters were colorful and it was fun to get to know them all. Melly and Katherina were especially loveable! Although I can’t say I was a huge fan of Tom, I was not fully convinced to trust him.
Lastly, this was a clean read with somewhat of a focus on Godly relationships. I liked how Janton showed the ramifications of a marriage that is not focused on Christ vs. the blessings of one that is focused on Christ.
I recommend this book to those who love historical fiction mixed with romance, mystery, and contemporary.
There were quite a few characters which can sometimes be confusing, but in this instance, each different part of the story was kept clear. The characters were colorful and it was fun to get to know them all. Melly and Katherina were especially loveable! Although I can’t say I was a huge fan of Tom, I was not fully convinced to trust him.
Lastly, this was a clean read with somewhat of a focus on Godly relationships. I liked how Janton showed the ramifications of a marriage that is not focused on Christ vs. the blessings of one that is focused on Christ.
I recommend this book to those who love historical fiction mixed with romance, mystery, and contemporary.
November 28, 2018
3.5 stars.
This book took me a while to read, but it wasn't because it was difficult to read, I think it's just because it was on Kindle and don't read on the computer very well! So it's kind of my fault, no one else's! ;) Nevertheless, I finished it, so here's my review.
The two stories in this were very interesting and I did enjoy them somewhat. I was interesting in finding out what had happened and what was going to happen, and I'm glad I kept reading!
The story begins in the 18th century and it's about a girl names Katherina, then after a little while the story jumps 250 years and shows the reader Katherina's eleventh great-granddaughter. It was neat reading about Melly finding out things she had never known happened with her descendant's, along with her parents. It was also nice that Melly found Katherina's journal so she could find out what happened with her descendants.
In Katherina and Melly's life there are both good and bad things happening, which makes it very realistic! They both went through things they later wished they hadn't done. This story focuses a lot on forgiveness, which is nice! I went back and forth knowing who to like and who to not like, but now that I've finished, I'm having in between thoughts about everyone - who to trust, and whatnot!
Things that happened in Katherina's life completely took me by surprise! I was not expecting the parts with Francis and Daniel ... and it almost kind of irritated me. But I'm good now since I've finished it!
I'm very glad Melly became a Christian and realized what she was doing was wrong concerning her boyfriend Tom. Tom was okay, but I didn't really like him.
Content:
In Katherina's story there was one part that gave me uncomfortable feelings. Melly at one point stayed in a hotel room with Tom by herself - they had separate beds - and she knew her Grandmother wouldn't want her to do that, but she did it anyway. And Melly also wanted to do certain "stuff" with Tom.
There were several kisses and hugs throughout, but nothing was too detailed.
Overall, it was an interesting book with the two sets of stories in it! I'd recommend it to historical and contemporary lovers who are 15+.
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.*
This book took me a while to read, but it wasn't because it was difficult to read, I think it's just because it was on Kindle and don't read on the computer very well! So it's kind of my fault, no one else's! ;) Nevertheless, I finished it, so here's my review.
The two stories in this were very interesting and I did enjoy them somewhat. I was interesting in finding out what had happened and what was going to happen, and I'm glad I kept reading!
The story begins in the 18th century and it's about a girl names Katherina, then after a little while the story jumps 250 years and shows the reader Katherina's eleventh great-granddaughter. It was neat reading about Melly finding out things she had never known happened with her descendant's, along with her parents. It was also nice that Melly found Katherina's journal so she could find out what happened with her descendants.
In Katherina and Melly's life there are both good and bad things happening, which makes it very realistic! They both went through things they later wished they hadn't done. This story focuses a lot on forgiveness, which is nice! I went back and forth knowing who to like and who to not like, but now that I've finished, I'm having in between thoughts about everyone - who to trust, and whatnot!
Things that happened in Katherina's life completely took me by surprise! I was not expecting the parts with Francis and Daniel ... and it almost kind of irritated me. But I'm good now since I've finished it!
I'm very glad Melly became a Christian and realized what she was doing was wrong concerning her boyfriend Tom. Tom was okay, but I didn't really like him.
Content:
In Katherina's story there was one part that gave me uncomfortable feelings. Melly at one point stayed in a hotel room with Tom by herself - they had separate beds - and she knew her Grandmother wouldn't want her to do that, but she did it anyway. And Melly also wanted to do certain "stuff" with Tom.
There were several kisses and hugs throughout, but nothing was too detailed.
Overall, it was an interesting book with the two sets of stories in it! I'd recommend it to historical and contemporary lovers who are 15+.
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.*
May 8, 2021
As funny as it might sound; when I began reading this book I wanted to stop. I am not a major aficionado of fiction books. This got me sort of hesitant to invest my time in it. I am one of those individuals who prefer viewing a motion picture to perusing a fiction novel. With every one desire not to like this book before I even began, I constrained myself to at any rate begin and stop midway on the off chance that I can't adapt. I began and thought of dropping the book after 5% into the book. Perhaps, this is the life of one who isn't into fiction novels. In any case, I attempted to peruse some more, and that was the point I got hooked; I mean Celena got me where she needed me. Three hours and a few minutes invested in this book felt like 20min. At the point when I completed the material; I quickly checked on Amazon for the continuation. Unfortunately! it's not yet out. This is the tale of how the Songbird and the Secret by Celena M. Janton changed my contemplations about fiction novels.
The story was amazing and I was overwhelmed by how the author could navigate through different ages in time and interface everything together wonderfully. I could fit myself into every period and get an unmistakable picture with a reasonable comprehension of the image the Author was trying to paint.
I became enamoured with the characters in the book after meeting them and understanding their feature, this made me valued the book some more. My most loved characters are Katharina and Melissa; they both have a lovely personality.
The most excellent virtue that this book holds was the little messages that were buried in the heart of the book. As one who appreciates reading Christian non-fiction books, inspirational books and motivational books. I needed more on the table aside from the all-around organized and delightful storyline. Prepare to have your mind blown; I got that from this book. There were some astounding messages that this book sent out effortlessly. It spoke about forgiveness, self-love, patience, and salvation. I am pleased with the fact that the author was not all about giving her readers a fantastic story. She was also in the business of sharing some gems that are very important in life.
The part that truly got to me was the point at which a character in the book got saved. The customary procedure of looking for salvation is in the church; on most occasions when the clergymen make an altar call. I tapped my self hard when one of my most loved characters got saved while she locked herself up in the restroom. The crazy part was that she did it alone. She didn't have to hold up till Sunday or any service day to get saved. She didn't require a minister to lay his hands on her. She didn't do it in a conducive condition. She did it in the toilet, the school's latrine?! For me the school's toilet is not a place I want to be; I don't know about you. The truth remains that it doesn't matter where you are calling out from, God hears, he sees and he is more than capable to deliver. Enough of my whining, go get a copy for your self.
As for me, I can't wait for the next series to be launched.
The story was amazing and I was overwhelmed by how the author could navigate through different ages in time and interface everything together wonderfully. I could fit myself into every period and get an unmistakable picture with a reasonable comprehension of the image the Author was trying to paint.
I became enamoured with the characters in the book after meeting them and understanding their feature, this made me valued the book some more. My most loved characters are Katharina and Melissa; they both have a lovely personality.
The most excellent virtue that this book holds was the little messages that were buried in the heart of the book. As one who appreciates reading Christian non-fiction books, inspirational books and motivational books. I needed more on the table aside from the all-around organized and delightful storyline. Prepare to have your mind blown; I got that from this book. There were some astounding messages that this book sent out effortlessly. It spoke about forgiveness, self-love, patience, and salvation. I am pleased with the fact that the author was not all about giving her readers a fantastic story. She was also in the business of sharing some gems that are very important in life.
The part that truly got to me was the point at which a character in the book got saved. The customary procedure of looking for salvation is in the church; on most occasions when the clergymen make an altar call. I tapped my self hard when one of my most loved characters got saved while she locked herself up in the restroom. The crazy part was that she did it alone. She didn't have to hold up till Sunday or any service day to get saved. She didn't require a minister to lay his hands on her. She didn't do it in a conducive condition. She did it in the toilet, the school's latrine?! For me the school's toilet is not a place I want to be; I don't know about you. The truth remains that it doesn't matter where you are calling out from, God hears, he sees and he is more than capable to deliver. Enough of my whining, go get a copy for your self.
As for me, I can't wait for the next series to be launched.
January 2, 2019
The Songbird and the Secret was written surprisingly well (I say surprisingly since I'm often super dubious of books from authors I've never read before xD)! I definitely found it comparable to other dual-time novels I'd read before. I think Celena did that part really well. I also found the plot extremely interesting and TOTALLY unlike anything I've read before. Like, seriously, this plot is unique. Some threads of the story weren't wrapped up well, though, but they didn't really bother me much. The characters also made some moral decisions that were really questionable and a little bothering, so that's mostly why I deducted a star. :)
Overall, such a good story! Definitely will be on the lookout for more of Ms. Janton's works. 4 stars.
FTC DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Stellae Books. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Overall, such a good story! Definitely will be on the lookout for more of Ms. Janton's works. 4 stars.
FTC DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Stellae Books. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
September 12, 2019
Melissa Benjamin never knew her parents or about her family history. Her grandmother who raised her never spoke of the past. However, a high school genealogy assignment piqued her interested in her past, changing her life forever. At first, she was more interested preoccupied with finishing her last year of high school well enough to attend college and her crush Tom Berrington, who seemed equally interested in her. Their bond starts to deepen while Tom helps Melissa learn more about her family history. Then, he disappears. Though heartbroken, Melissa invests more time into discovering her family history. She becomes intrigued with the bravery of one of her ancestors Katharina and her parents and becomes entangled in tales of deceit, unrequited love, and courage that have haunted her family for generations. Eventually, Melissa learns she is heiress to a large estate. However, the same evil force that destroyed her parents has a grasp on the young heiress. Melissa must uncover this evil force to free herself before she becomes the next victim.
The saga begins with a budding romance between a teenage Katharina and her childhood friend Daniel Berrington that is threatened by the jealousy of his cousin Francis. When Daniel does not return to their hometown after finishing his legal studies, Francis convinces Katharina to marry him and then whisked her to America. Alone in a strange country with her first husband who transforms into a stranger then disappears, Katharina has only her faith to save her as she adapts to life in a new country that is on the verge of war.
Katharina reminds us that God is still with us and will delivers us from our darkest moments. Even when Francis left her, even when she was taken by a Native American tribe, she always called upon God to rescue her, and He answered her prayers. She is a shining example of unwavering faith in God and an inspiration to those having a crisis of faith.
A free copy of this book was exchanged in return for an honest review.
The saga begins with a budding romance between a teenage Katharina and her childhood friend Daniel Berrington that is threatened by the jealousy of his cousin Francis. When Daniel does not return to their hometown after finishing his legal studies, Francis convinces Katharina to marry him and then whisked her to America. Alone in a strange country with her first husband who transforms into a stranger then disappears, Katharina has only her faith to save her as she adapts to life in a new country that is on the verge of war.
Katharina reminds us that God is still with us and will delivers us from our darkest moments. Even when Francis left her, even when she was taken by a Native American tribe, she always called upon God to rescue her, and He answered her prayers. She is a shining example of unwavering faith in God and an inspiration to those having a crisis of faith.
A free copy of this book was exchanged in return for an honest review.
February 28, 2019
What can be said about a book that takes you on a journey so exciting, so gripping you feel you know the characters, scenery, and story so well you could just jump in and join them as their tale unfolds?
Excellent. Just excellent!
What starts out as a history project turns into a very personal discovery for Melissa. She uncovers a diary that tells her more than she could have ever imagined about her past, and helps determine her future.
Within the diary, we find the story of the charming Katharina, and the two men she loves dearly. We watch Katharina's friendship with them bud at an early age and develop into something so tragic, so complex, so remarkable that its consequences affect the lives of Katharina's decedents for generations to come.
Clean romance, but far from the sappy, predictable sort that dominates the genre. This book had me hooked from the beginning and in tears by the end. It's one of those books that you go back to time and again in your mind.
Excellent. Just excellent!
What starts out as a history project turns into a very personal discovery for Melissa. She uncovers a diary that tells her more than she could have ever imagined about her past, and helps determine her future.
Within the diary, we find the story of the charming Katharina, and the two men she loves dearly. We watch Katharina's friendship with them bud at an early age and develop into something so tragic, so complex, so remarkable that its consequences affect the lives of Katharina's decedents for generations to come.
Clean romance, but far from the sappy, predictable sort that dominates the genre. This book had me hooked from the beginning and in tears by the end. It's one of those books that you go back to time and again in your mind.
January 14, 2019
What an amazing story! Had me staying up late to finish it! What started out as a promise in the 1700’s became a over 200 year old fanily mystery. The author protrayed the characters in a way that they became real to the reader. It all started with a promise, a jealous brother, a computer game, a hidden deed, and the 200 year old journal of Katharina Benjamin. Follow Melly as shetries to unravel a 200 year old family mystery. I can wait until the next book is the series is available! This is the first book I’ve read from this aithor but it won’t be the last.
I received a free copy of this book for my honest review
I received a free copy of this book for my honest review
June 30, 2022
The book opens with Katharina Simeon in 18th century England. She grows up without a mother, living next to a mansion owned by titled gentry. Katharina appears to live a free-spirit life, being allowed to roam all over the estate and play freely with the children of the titled owner. She is at first extremely close to Francis, listening to his every word. Then Daniel (Francis cousin/brother) comes to live on the estate and Francis drifts into the mist. Now, Daniel becomes everything to Katharina. Through chicanery, Katharina is married off; she believes she is to be married to Daniel, but in reality is married to Francis.
Because of the chicanery, the couple escapes England to move to the colonies, in pre-Revolutionary America. Now the story moves beyond chicanery to downright evil. For many years Katharina and Francis live a quiet and successful life, but with the coming unrest with England, things become dangerous. It is at this point that Daniel once again makes his appearance. He comes as a friend to save Katharina from danger, which on the surface he does help. Katharina does escape death, but later we learn the complete truth concerning the evil he has orchestrated for his evil designs.
The next time-period is contemporary. Melissa Benjamin is the great, great granddaughter (11th) from Katharina, only she really knows nothing of her history. Melissa goes by Melly and lives with her Grandmother. Her grandmother is tight-lipped about Melly’s mother (the grandmother’s daughter) and Melly’s father. Melly believes they have died.
When Melly is tasked by a school assignment to write about an ancestor, she suddenly discovers all kinds of disturbing things about her parents and her distant relatives. The book ends with a type of fairytale ending, when she finds she is the owner of the English mansion and lands from her great, great…grandmother Katharina.
My Reflective Thoughts:
To me this book wanted to entice the reader into a story where right and wrong, good and bad were ephemeral, hard to pin down, and purposely blurred. I’ve read many books which have dark parts, but the evil is clearly recognized and not blurred as good. Some called this book a dual-timeline, others Historical fiction, and others fantasy; I might lean to dual-timeline/fantasy/paranormal.
As I read, many questions came to my mind that did not seem realistic. Why didn’t Katharina’s father chaperone his daughter more strictly, especially as she grew from a child to a young adult? Why was she allowed to be with Daniel unchaperoned, when he was clearly an adult and she was not? The book even records a totally inappropriate encounter in the mansion between Daniel and Katharina. This type of behavior doesn’t seem like proper 18th century practice.
In regards to Melly’s parents, why didn’t the grandmother know or report the daughter’s death? Why didn’t they know about the daughter’s husband being released from the mental institution? Is she in danger? The whole storyline with Melly’s mother and Melly’s father was very odd. A gaming addiction and only Melly’s mother and her best friend knew about it? I really did not enjoy the backstory of Melly’s parents, it was rather disturbing.
Melly’s crush on Tom Berrington left you with foreboding, even before the incident of going to New York, and not telling her grandmother, staying in a hotel overnight, then visiting the place where her parents were incarcerated. At the end, she plans to marry Tom? NO, just No. If she really was a Christian, why would she marry someone who had never made a clear profession of faith? Why would she marry someone who had been manipulated and used for evil purposes? She can and does forgive him, but marrying him is something else. Also, because of Tom’s Uncle and his clear role in the chicanery between Tom and Melly, you would have thought that would have been a discussion point before setting a marriage date.
This author is a very talented writer; so talented that because of some of the content in the book, for me, I will choose not to read any more books from this author.
Because of the chicanery, the couple escapes England to move to the colonies, in pre-Revolutionary America. Now the story moves beyond chicanery to downright evil. For many years Katharina and Francis live a quiet and successful life, but with the coming unrest with England, things become dangerous. It is at this point that Daniel once again makes his appearance. He comes as a friend to save Katharina from danger, which on the surface he does help. Katharina does escape death, but later we learn the complete truth concerning the evil he has orchestrated for his evil designs.
The next time-period is contemporary. Melissa Benjamin is the great, great granddaughter (11th) from Katharina, only she really knows nothing of her history. Melissa goes by Melly and lives with her Grandmother. Her grandmother is tight-lipped about Melly’s mother (the grandmother’s daughter) and Melly’s father. Melly believes they have died.
When Melly is tasked by a school assignment to write about an ancestor, she suddenly discovers all kinds of disturbing things about her parents and her distant relatives. The book ends with a type of fairytale ending, when she finds she is the owner of the English mansion and lands from her great, great…grandmother Katharina.
My Reflective Thoughts:
To me this book wanted to entice the reader into a story where right and wrong, good and bad were ephemeral, hard to pin down, and purposely blurred. I’ve read many books which have dark parts, but the evil is clearly recognized and not blurred as good. Some called this book a dual-timeline, others Historical fiction, and others fantasy; I might lean to dual-timeline/fantasy/paranormal.
As I read, many questions came to my mind that did not seem realistic. Why didn’t Katharina’s father chaperone his daughter more strictly, especially as she grew from a child to a young adult? Why was she allowed to be with Daniel unchaperoned, when he was clearly an adult and she was not? The book even records a totally inappropriate encounter in the mansion between Daniel and Katharina. This type of behavior doesn’t seem like proper 18th century practice.
In regards to Melly’s parents, why didn’t the grandmother know or report the daughter’s death? Why didn’t they know about the daughter’s husband being released from the mental institution? Is she in danger? The whole storyline with Melly’s mother and Melly’s father was very odd. A gaming addiction and only Melly’s mother and her best friend knew about it? I really did not enjoy the backstory of Melly’s parents, it was rather disturbing.
Melly’s crush on Tom Berrington left you with foreboding, even before the incident of going to New York, and not telling her grandmother, staying in a hotel overnight, then visiting the place where her parents were incarcerated. At the end, she plans to marry Tom? NO, just No. If she really was a Christian, why would she marry someone who had never made a clear profession of faith? Why would she marry someone who had been manipulated and used for evil purposes? She can and does forgive him, but marrying him is something else. Also, because of Tom’s Uncle and his clear role in the chicanery between Tom and Melly, you would have thought that would have been a discussion point before setting a marriage date.
This author is a very talented writer; so talented that because of some of the content in the book, for me, I will choose not to read any more books from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2018
I believe this was the first dual-time novel I've read--and, for the most part, I really enjoyed it! (I enjoyed the historical part much more than the contemporary part, though, I must say)
My personal favorite parts were the setting (upstate New York: Canajoharie, Cobleskill, etc.; in other words, places with which I am familiar) and the story inspired by true events. (Of course, I can't help but wonder what is true and what is improvised to make an exciting plot) First, the setting. In neither of the eras was the setting much of a focus. Obviously, the danger of the Mohawk Indians was a part of the story, but it wasn't palpable. Honestly, the part of the story felt a little rushed. In the contemporary era, the setting once again took a minor role. The places in England were described sufficiently, but there was no overabundance of scene-setting. It probably wouldn't be of interest at all, except that I know some of the history in upstate NY, and the Mohawks. So, that's cool.
As I said, I'm not sure what events are inspired by the author's ancestors, but I sure love the plot revolving around ancestral history. My favorite parts of the contemporary story were definitely when Melly read the diary entries. Her growing interest in her family history was fun to see.
Real history or not, I have to say I enjoyed Katharina's story. Francis' and Daniel's characters were so good and so bad at the same time. I kept waffling between liking one and disliking the other, and then liking the other and disliking the one. I had no idea which one was the hero for most of the book, and when the deciding factor was revealed, I didn't know what to do about it. (I really thought "he" was dead.) But all in all, when the story ended, I was so glad with the conclusion. It was an amazing example of forgiveness and seeing how God works things out for good.
Melly's story was certainly different. (And, unfortunately by default, not as good, because of its contemporary setting) One thing, though: I did not like Tom. On one hand, it was another good example of forgiveness. (Because the fact Melly was able to forgive Tom was a miracle) On the other hand, I didn't feel that Tom explained himself/confessed enough. It's one thing to forgive someone who's truly repentant (like Francis--but I didn't see Tom's repentance come through as much); it's another to trust that person with your life. And the thing about Tom's uncle wasn't really resolved. (Especially the whole video game part) And what about Melly's father? I don't recall that being wrapped up at all. There could have been other aspects of the plot left hanging. (I don't really pay attention to possible foreshadowing, which is a problem on my part.) Also, I had major trouble liking Tom when he made Melly share a hotel room with him. (And because Melly let him, she wasn't the brightest, either. Fortunately, their teenager shenanigans weren't detailed much at all.) So, unsurprisingly, I wasn't a fan of the contemporary romance. But the attention to ancestral history interested me during the contemporary-time part of the dual-time novel.
This book was a definite positive introduction to dual-time novels. I could easily recommend this to fans of both historical and contemporary fiction. I would hesitate to recommend it to historical-only fans, but only-contemporary fans would probably enjoy it, too.
My personal favorite parts were the setting (upstate New York: Canajoharie, Cobleskill, etc.; in other words, places with which I am familiar) and the story inspired by true events. (Of course, I can't help but wonder what is true and what is improvised to make an exciting plot) First, the setting. In neither of the eras was the setting much of a focus. Obviously, the danger of the Mohawk Indians was a part of the story, but it wasn't palpable. Honestly, the part of the story felt a little rushed. In the contemporary era, the setting once again took a minor role. The places in England were described sufficiently, but there was no overabundance of scene-setting. It probably wouldn't be of interest at all, except that I know some of the history in upstate NY, and the Mohawks. So, that's cool.
As I said, I'm not sure what events are inspired by the author's ancestors, but I sure love the plot revolving around ancestral history. My favorite parts of the contemporary story were definitely when Melly read the diary entries. Her growing interest in her family history was fun to see.
Real history or not, I have to say I enjoyed Katharina's story. Francis' and Daniel's characters were so good and so bad at the same time. I kept waffling between liking one and disliking the other, and then liking the other and disliking the one. I had no idea which one was the hero for most of the book, and when the deciding factor was revealed, I didn't know what to do about it. (I really thought "he" was dead.) But all in all, when the story ended, I was so glad with the conclusion. It was an amazing example of forgiveness and seeing how God works things out for good.
Melly's story was certainly different. (And, unfortunately by default, not as good, because of its contemporary setting) One thing, though: I did not like Tom. On one hand, it was another good example of forgiveness. (Because the fact Melly was able to forgive Tom was a miracle) On the other hand, I didn't feel that Tom explained himself/confessed enough. It's one thing to forgive someone who's truly repentant (like Francis--but I didn't see Tom's repentance come through as much); it's another to trust that person with your life. And the thing about Tom's uncle wasn't really resolved. (Especially the whole video game part) And what about Melly's father? I don't recall that being wrapped up at all. There could have been other aspects of the plot left hanging. (I don't really pay attention to possible foreshadowing, which is a problem on my part.) Also, I had major trouble liking Tom when he made Melly share a hotel room with him. (And because Melly let him, she wasn't the brightest, either. Fortunately, their teenager shenanigans weren't detailed much at all.) So, unsurprisingly, I wasn't a fan of the contemporary romance. But the attention to ancestral history interested me during the contemporary-time part of the dual-time novel.
This book was a definite positive introduction to dual-time novels. I could easily recommend this to fans of both historical and contemporary fiction. I would hesitate to recommend it to historical-only fans, but only-contemporary fans would probably enjoy it, too.
February 7, 2019
“The Songbird and the Secret,” written by Celena M. Janton is a work of historical and modern-day fiction. Yes, you did read that correctly! This is a well written story with a story inside of a story. I did not find it the least bit confusing, even though my review might be confusing, but hey, I am NOT a writer!
The Songbird and the Secret starts in 1756. The first 1/3 of the book introduces us to Katharina and the life she lives. We meet her father who is raising her, and some of her friends. Her childhood seems to be one of love, laughter, and sunshine. Her older teen years, not so much.
But just when we want to know more about what is happening in Katharina’s life, the story jumps to 250 years later, (but fear not, it does return to her)! Enter Melissa, a high school student being raised by her grandmother. She must write a report on her ancestors and so begins the search for past information. With the help of her new boyfriend she finds herself getting more and more interested in where she came from and how she got to where she is now. When she comes across an old diary written by Katharina, she is astonished by the life Katharina has lived. And, so was I!
I enjoyed this book a great deal! It does not contain any sexual material, although it does contain a tad of violence, nothing too gratuitous, and given the circumstances, I can understand that it is necessary. While “The Songbird and the Secret” does have a complete ending, the author teases us (me?) with a second book, a continuation of the life of these two ladies. I am looking forward to it!
The Songbird and the Secret starts in 1756. The first 1/3 of the book introduces us to Katharina and the life she lives. We meet her father who is raising her, and some of her friends. Her childhood seems to be one of love, laughter, and sunshine. Her older teen years, not so much.
But just when we want to know more about what is happening in Katharina’s life, the story jumps to 250 years later, (but fear not, it does return to her)! Enter Melissa, a high school student being raised by her grandmother. She must write a report on her ancestors and so begins the search for past information. With the help of her new boyfriend she finds herself getting more and more interested in where she came from and how she got to where she is now. When she comes across an old diary written by Katharina, she is astonished by the life Katharina has lived. And, so was I!
I enjoyed this book a great deal! It does not contain any sexual material, although it does contain a tad of violence, nothing too gratuitous, and given the circumstances, I can understand that it is necessary. While “The Songbird and the Secret” does have a complete ending, the author teases us (me?) with a second book, a continuation of the life of these two ladies. I am looking forward to it!
November 12, 2018
In her latest book, The Songbird and the Secret, author Celena Janton captivates her readers with an intriguing time slip novel that expertly weaves together historical fiction and contemporary Christian fiction through the centuries into a story filled with suspense, romance, and betrayal. Fans of 18th century England and the pre-Revolutionary war period in America will thoroughly enjoy this extremely well written story. The story intertwines the past with the present as Melissa Benjamin's senior school genealogy project turns into a search for answers about secrets from the past, with the assistance of her 11th great grandmother's journal. The many twists and turns along the way keep the readers eagerly anticipating what will happen next.
This is the first book I read by Celena Janton, but it won’t be the last! The book was very reader-friendly, and the storyline flowed well as it switched between the past and present day. This Christian fiction novel was inspirational and demonstrated the power of forgiveness and the love that God has for us. I found myself eagerly anticipating what would happen next throughout the story. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are mine.
This is the first book I read by Celena Janton, but it won’t be the last! The book was very reader-friendly, and the storyline flowed well as it switched between the past and present day. This Christian fiction novel was inspirational and demonstrated the power of forgiveness and the love that God has for us. I found myself eagerly anticipating what would happen next throughout the story. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are mine.
May 23, 2022
Different, very different, it was three stories over time linked to one another through blood relationships. The initial story takes place in England in the mid-1700’s. I felt this portion was a bit contrived. The second story jumps to a high school girl in 2007. Melissa, or Melly as she is often called in the book, is fulfilling a writing assignment about her ancestors. That’s the excuse for the tie between her and her very great-grandmother, Katharina. There are mysteries; the book calls them secrets.
A third story emerges as an intermission. It is about Melly’s mom and dad, who are not around in real life in 2007. There is a question about where her dad is; that is unresolved in this book. A shadowy character known later as Uncle Rikert emerges as a bad actor.
There is some hint of time travel. Thomas, a boyfriend of Melly’s, has a scar and a vague memory of how he got it. Both match with what Melly read in a journal written by Katharina. Rikert is hinted at as being very patient, like maybe for a couple hundred years.
Although some of the characters profess to be Christians, they deceive others and in one case even steal something. There is a struggle between good and evil going on, and it is all related to an incident that took place early in the book. Vengeance is a terrible thing as the book demonstrates; it ruins both the avenger and those who are the objects of his wrath. There is, however, forgiveness in a couple of cases, and that is recognized as emblematic of God's forgiveness.
A third story emerges as an intermission. It is about Melly’s mom and dad, who are not around in real life in 2007. There is a question about where her dad is; that is unresolved in this book. A shadowy character known later as Uncle Rikert emerges as a bad actor.
There is some hint of time travel. Thomas, a boyfriend of Melly’s, has a scar and a vague memory of how he got it. Both match with what Melly read in a journal written by Katharina. Rikert is hinted at as being very patient, like maybe for a couple hundred years.
Although some of the characters profess to be Christians, they deceive others and in one case even steal something. There is a struggle between good and evil going on, and it is all related to an incident that took place early in the book. Vengeance is a terrible thing as the book demonstrates; it ruins both the avenger and those who are the objects of his wrath. There is, however, forgiveness in a couple of cases, and that is recognized as emblematic of God's forgiveness.
January 14, 2019
The Songbird and the Secret is a historical romance novel by author Celena Marie Janton. This is a time-slip novel (1750- England – Present Day-America) and my first reading by this author. My favorite of the book was part I. I felt involved with each of the characters. There were times I felt excited to keep reading and other times I was saddened, upset, or hurt by what a character did. This is a novel full of emotion, suspense, and definitely a page-turner. I look forward to reading more by this author.
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
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
May 22, 2022
A masterpiece of time travel, while staying true to one’s roots.
Of Time and Eternity Trilogy tells the stories of Melissa , Katharina Simeon, and Arabella as they learn that they can time travel. Historically accurate accounts and incredibly complex, yet relatable characters and situations throughout each book will keep the reader begging for more and sitting on the edge of their seat!
Each story is a beautiful blend of time travel and while there are multiple stories within each, the author does a wonderful job keeping each sub-story connected and not confusing to the reader. Each character is relatable in that, despite the time era they may be in, they face situations that modern day people can connect with and understand.
Beautiful trilogy of life, love, trust, heartbreak, time travel, relationships, and friendships, not to mention lessons learned.
Of Time and Eternity Trilogy tells the stories of Melissa , Katharina Simeon, and Arabella as they learn that they can time travel. Historically accurate accounts and incredibly complex, yet relatable characters and situations throughout each book will keep the reader begging for more and sitting on the edge of their seat!
Each story is a beautiful blend of time travel and while there are multiple stories within each, the author does a wonderful job keeping each sub-story connected and not confusing to the reader. Each character is relatable in that, despite the time era they may be in, they face situations that modern day people can connect with and understand.
Beautiful trilogy of life, love, trust, heartbreak, time travel, relationships, and friendships, not to mention lessons learned.
August 1, 2022
Unanswered Questions
This book skipped around from one time period to the next, different characters, varied locations and was difficult to follow. Each time I thought I had a thread that would kind of link it together, along came three or more new threads. Unanswered quite sticks : who was Rikert, and what was his purpose? What ever happened to Melissa's father? What was the meaning of the computer game? So difficult to tell if this book was supposed to be regency, historical fiction, time travel, science fiction or what? Don't need to read the sequel if it is going to be more of the sake indiscriminate meanderings with no real purpose.
This book skipped around from one time period to the next, different characters, varied locations and was difficult to follow. Each time I thought I had a thread that would kind of link it together, along came three or more new threads. Unanswered quite sticks : who was Rikert, and what was his purpose? What ever happened to Melissa's father? What was the meaning of the computer game? So difficult to tell if this book was supposed to be regency, historical fiction, time travel, science fiction or what? Don't need to read the sequel if it is going to be more of the sake indiscriminate meanderings with no real purpose.
June 23, 2021
I really enjoyed this fascinating book. It kept me turning the pages, wondering how everything was going to turn out for all the characters. There were three stories being told in three different times, with three different main characters, all related. I was especially invested in the story that took place in the 1700s, of Katherina, Daniel and Francis. What a juicy story! I was really emotionally involved in that one. I also like that the book was filled with lots of uplifting messages including forgiveness.
July 31, 2021
Wow. This novel was unlike any other that I've read before! It has a little bit of everything! Young love, faith, the Revolutionary War, family drama, twists and turns, multiple points of view and everything in between! We bounce back and forth between three different couples, watching as their stories come together and intertwine.
I have to say, it was all a bit overwhelming for me at times. There was just so much for the author to explain and share. And, though it did all come together in a way, I still have a lot of questions. I guess it's a good thing that there is a book two!
I have to say, it was all a bit overwhelming for me at times. There was just so much for the author to explain and share. And, though it did all come together in a way, I still have a lot of questions. I guess it's a good thing that there is a book two!
January 12, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this excellently written book! Most of the transitions are very smooth and I don't think I ever got confused as to who was speaking. Definitely worth my time! As a young writer, I can only dream of being able to write something so captivating and exciting. I can't wait to read the sequel.
March 30, 2022
This book was an enchanting read. The first lines drew me in and honestly there were so many unexpected twists and turns that it kept me on my toes.
I really appreciated how the characters grew in their faith and practiced grace and forgiveness with one another. This is a theme that is seen throughout each book (there are two more in the series).
3.5 stars from me!
I really appreciated how the characters grew in their faith and practiced grace and forgiveness with one another. This is a theme that is seen throughout each book (there are two more in the series).
3.5 stars from me!
January 11, 2019
I received this book from the author to review. I enjoyed this book! It was a fun and unique read! This book spans the stories of three different couples from three diffident time periods. While this may be confusing in other novels the author does an overall good job of making things clear. I love how you really get into the characters lives and understand how they feel. The Christian content in this book is really good, yet I will say this book is a bit more “intimate” than most Christian books. There are mentions of characters doing “it”, details of a man uniting a woman’s dress out of wedlock, and two characters spending the night together out of wedlock. The book wasn’t terribly sensually pushy, but just a bit pushy for the Christian Fiction genera. Just some things to keep in mind for younger readers. In the end the characters make the right decisions, realize their mistakes, and look to God when making choices. In the end there are many good life lessons this book teaches. There are a few of confusing parts in the book, but I think it is more technical related things and a few errors in the grammar department. The book was very suspenseful, and a great read for people who like this genera of book.
February 4, 2022
Wow! I am left speechless after reading this book. I believe this book will be placed in my top 5 all time favorite books.
I don’t want to say too much about the story, because there were so many twists and turns.
If you are a lover of historical romance and being swept back in time, pick this book up.
I started this book, and to my surprise, I couldn’t put it down. I even woke up early to read it.
This will definitely be a book I will look forward to reading many times over.
I don’t want to say too much about the story, because there were so many twists and turns.
If you are a lover of historical romance and being swept back in time, pick this book up.
I started this book, and to my surprise, I couldn’t put it down. I even woke up early to read it.
This will definitely be a book I will look forward to reading many times over.
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