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Lacewood
A love story that spans centuries…
Two people trying to escape their pasts find a connection through an old house—and fulfill a destiny through the secrets it shares. Part love story, part ghost story, Lacewood is a timeless novel about love and loss, roots and belonging, and spirits of the past that refuse to be quieted..
Strong storytelling prose..." - The BookLife Prize
Two people trying to escape their pasts find a connection through an old house—and fulfill a destiny through the secrets it shares. Part love story, part ghost story, Lacewood is a timeless novel about love and loss, roots and belonging, and spirits of the past that refuse to be quieted..
MOVING TO A SMALL TOWN in Virginia is a big change for New York socialite Katie McCain. But when she stumbles across an abandoned 200-year-old mansion, she’s enthralled by the enduring beauty of the neglected estate—and captivated by the haunting portrait of a woman in mourning.
Purchasing the property on a whim, Katie attempts to fit in with the colorful characters in the town of New Hope, while trying to unravel the mystery of the “widow of Lacewood.” As she pieces together the previous owner’s heartrending story, Katie uncovers secrets the house has held for centuries, and discovers the key to coming to terms with her own sense of loss.
The past and present converge when hometown hero Will Durham returns and begins his own healing process by helping the “city girl” restore the place that holds so many memories. As the mystic web of destiny is woven, a love story that might have been lost forever is exposed, and a destiny that has been waiting in the shadows for centuries is fulfilled.
Rich in emotion and poignant in its telling, Lacewood is an unforgettable story about love and loss, roots and belonging…and spirits of the past that refuse to be quieted.
A haunting story from award-winning author Jessica James that connects the past with the present—and the present with eternity.
Strong storytelling prose..." - The BookLife Prize
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 18, 2019
394 people are currently reading
819 people want to read
About the author
Jessica James
28 books669 followersJessica James is an award-winning author of suspense, historical fiction, Christian fiction, and military fiction ranging from the Revolutionary War to modern day.
She is a four-time winner of the John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction, and was featured in the book 50 Authors You Should Be Reading, published in 2010.
Her novels appeal to both men and women and are featured in library collections all over the United States including Harvard and the U.S. Naval Academy.
When not writing, Jessica James can be found on the back roads of the country, finding new historic sites to blog about on www.PastLaneTravels.com.
James resides in Gettysburg, Pa., and is a member of the Military Writers Society of America, the Independent Book Publishers Association, and NINC.
AWARDS:
2020 John Esten Cooke Award
2020 Finalist HOLT Medallion Award
2020 Finalist Greater Detroit RWA Booksellers Best Award
2019 Finalist Indie Excellence Award
2019 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2018 Silver Falchion Award Finalist in Suspense
2017 Rone Award for Best Cover (Deadline)
2017 IndieBRAG Medallion Winner
2016 Gold Metal Military Writers Society of America
2016 Readers’ Favorite International Book Award Bronze Winner Romance – Suspense
2016 Finalist for BOOK OF THE YEAR in Foreword Magazine’s IndieFab contest
2015 NJRW Golden Leaf Award
2014 Valley Forge Romance Writers Sheila Award Finalist
2014 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2014 Reader’s Crown Award Finalist
2014 Next Generation Indie Award Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2013 USA “Best Books 2013” Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2012 Bronze winner Foreword Magazine Book of the Year in Romance
2011 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2011 USA "Best Books 2011" Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Award for Best Regional Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Romance
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Award
2010 Military Writers Society Award in Historical Fiction
2009 HOLT Medallion Finalist for Best Southern Theme
2008 Indie Next Generation Award for Best Regional Fiction
2008 Indie Next Generation Finalist for Best Historical Fiction
She is a four-time winner of the John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction, and was featured in the book 50 Authors You Should Be Reading, published in 2010.
Her novels appeal to both men and women and are featured in library collections all over the United States including Harvard and the U.S. Naval Academy.
When not writing, Jessica James can be found on the back roads of the country, finding new historic sites to blog about on www.PastLaneTravels.com.
James resides in Gettysburg, Pa., and is a member of the Military Writers Society of America, the Independent Book Publishers Association, and NINC.
AWARDS:
2020 John Esten Cooke Award
2020 Finalist HOLT Medallion Award
2020 Finalist Greater Detroit RWA Booksellers Best Award
2019 Finalist Indie Excellence Award
2019 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2018 Silver Falchion Award Finalist in Suspense
2017 Rone Award for Best Cover (Deadline)
2017 IndieBRAG Medallion Winner
2016 Gold Metal Military Writers Society of America
2016 Readers’ Favorite International Book Award Bronze Winner Romance – Suspense
2016 Finalist for BOOK OF THE YEAR in Foreword Magazine’s IndieFab contest
2015 NJRW Golden Leaf Award
2014 Valley Forge Romance Writers Sheila Award Finalist
2014 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2014 Reader’s Crown Award Finalist
2014 Next Generation Indie Award Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2013 USA “Best Books 2013” Finalist in Fiction/Religious
2012 Bronze winner Foreword Magazine Book of the Year in Romance
2011 John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction
2011 USA "Best Books 2011" Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Award for Best Regional Fiction
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Romance
2011 Next Generation Indie Finalist in Historical Fiction
2011 NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Award
2010 Military Writers Society Award in Historical Fiction
2009 HOLT Medallion Finalist for Best Southern Theme
2008 Indie Next Generation Award for Best Regional Fiction
2008 Indie Next Generation Finalist for Best Historical Fiction
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
September 5, 2019
Wow, this book!
This is the first book I've read by this author as I've just discovered her but she writes of one of my favorite subjects, the Civil War. I can guarantee you it won't be the last book read by her.
I was mesmerized by this book.
The haunting prose made me want to read it all the way through in one go.
The house took on a life of it's own, hauntingly beautiful, brilliantly described I felt as though I were there in the house as secrets are uncovered and we have a better understanding of the family that lived there in the past. Their story comes to life in this time split book that I know I will not forget the character's story for a long time.
I highly recommend this book!
Pub Date 18 Jun 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This is the first book I've read by this author as I've just discovered her but she writes of one of my favorite subjects, the Civil War. I can guarantee you it won't be the last book read by her.
I was mesmerized by this book.
The haunting prose made me want to read it all the way through in one go.
The house took on a life of it's own, hauntingly beautiful, brilliantly described I felt as though I were there in the house as secrets are uncovered and we have a better understanding of the family that lived there in the past. Their story comes to life in this time split book that I know I will not forget the character's story for a long time.
I highly recommend this book!
Pub Date 18 Jun 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
June 21, 2019
Jessica James has provided another beautiful storyline that will immerse you in history and might even teach you a thing or two. Although the book takes place in present time she gives you glimpses of the past throughout the book. Once I started I couldnt stop.
July 6, 2019
What a FABULOUS book! Two broken, lonely people who are seemingly brought together by an off-the-beaten path, dilapidated grand old Civil War era house. Through dogged determination and just plain stubbornness, intrigued by the lost history of the previous occupants of a home that she was inexplicably drawn to, our heroine slowly makes discoveries of those lives who preceded her in a house that zealously holds tight to its secrets. Our hero is a former occupant of the tiny town where time seems to have stopped and who has returned from recent war traumatized from events he experienced in that war. Little by little, you discover secrets and traumas they each are holding and experienced while painstakingly renovating and unfurling the tragic history and story of the house. Their healing and growth is a thing to behold.
Jessica James is meticulous in her historical research of the Civil War time period and beautifully blends the Civil War story part of this book with the current characters. All kinds of mysteries are slowly pieced together to form the beautiful tapestry that eventually evolves in this wonderful book. I just loved it! And, trust me, you do not have to have an interest in the Civil War to enjoy this haunting book. It is just terrific.
On a side note, several years ago, I left a very high paying job in L.A. It took me 30 years to establish myself in a relatively small field where I was at the top of my game and in demand. That is how the legal profession, whether attorney or legal assistant, is in the competitive arena of L.A. law. Living on the West Coast never completely killed my intense interest in the American Civil War and, after a one-week vacation to Gettysburg, I left that lucrative job and everything I knew behind and moved to the Gettysburg area. Nirvana for a Civil War nut! Talk about culture shock! In any event, I recently learned that Ms. James lives in Gettysburg and I am shocked (in this tiny town) that I have never run into her. You can bet I will be keeping my eye out for book signings here in the future! :)
Jessica James is meticulous in her historical research of the Civil War time period and beautifully blends the Civil War story part of this book with the current characters. All kinds of mysteries are slowly pieced together to form the beautiful tapestry that eventually evolves in this wonderful book. I just loved it! And, trust me, you do not have to have an interest in the Civil War to enjoy this haunting book. It is just terrific.
On a side note, several years ago, I left a very high paying job in L.A. It took me 30 years to establish myself in a relatively small field where I was at the top of my game and in demand. That is how the legal profession, whether attorney or legal assistant, is in the competitive arena of L.A. law. Living on the West Coast never completely killed my intense interest in the American Civil War and, after a one-week vacation to Gettysburg, I left that lucrative job and everything I knew behind and moved to the Gettysburg area. Nirvana for a Civil War nut! Talk about culture shock! In any event, I recently learned that Ms. James lives in Gettysburg and I am shocked (in this tiny town) that I have never run into her. You can bet I will be keeping my eye out for book signings here in the future! :)
January 22, 2020
New York socialite Katie McCain has no idea how much her life would change by one drive down a dusty road. One look at the neglected Lacewood mansion in disrepair and she knows she has to own it. Something calls her to the small town of New Hope and as she tries to fit in, she meets mysterious Will Durham. He vexes her at every turn, making her feel less than capable of restoring the Lacewood manor, but there’s something about him that tugs at her heartstrings. The mystery surrounding the Widow of Lacewood intrigues Katie and when she discovers old letters and correspondence, a Civil War love story is revealed. When Will discovers who she is, will Katie be able to mend the rift or will she have to leave Lacewood, the only home she’s felt at peace, forever?
Lacewood is a tender, heart-wrenching tale of loss, love and finding your destiny. It’s told in both modern-day and the Civil War era. The Civil War scenes are historically accurate and it’s obvious the author has done extensive research. I connected with all the characters in the book but especially Katie. She’s never gotten over the loss of grandmother and the isolation Lacewood offers is exactly what she needs.
Will is a hometown hero veteran trying to blend into the woodwork without any fan fare. He’s plagued with guilt and keeps everyone at a distance. He suffers from PTSD and in one scene, his emotions overflow. His anguish, his pain, squeezed my heart and I cried. Again, kudos to the author for her research on PTSD.
From start to finish, I loved reading Lacewood. It holds a special place in my heart and my bookshelf. When it ended, I was a little sad. I wanted to stay with Katie and Will as they carve out a life in the beautiful estate of Lacewood. Highly recommend!
Favorite Character/Quote:
“Maybe we are proof that hope can survive in the midst of death, and love can find someone even after great loss."
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Lacewood is a tender, heart-wrenching tale of loss, love and finding your destiny. It’s told in both modern-day and the Civil War era. The Civil War scenes are historically accurate and it’s obvious the author has done extensive research. I connected with all the characters in the book but especially Katie. She’s never gotten over the loss of grandmother and the isolation Lacewood offers is exactly what she needs.
Will is a hometown hero veteran trying to blend into the woodwork without any fan fare. He’s plagued with guilt and keeps everyone at a distance. He suffers from PTSD and in one scene, his emotions overflow. His anguish, his pain, squeezed my heart and I cried. Again, kudos to the author for her research on PTSD.
From start to finish, I loved reading Lacewood. It holds a special place in my heart and my bookshelf. When it ended, I was a little sad. I wanted to stay with Katie and Will as they carve out a life in the beautiful estate of Lacewood. Highly recommend!
Favorite Character/Quote:
“Maybe we are proof that hope can survive in the midst of death, and love can find someone even after great loss."
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
July 14, 2019
Adjectives to describe “Lacewood” might include emotional, poignant, beautiful, heartfelt, haunting, unique, or unforgettable. They would all be true. This is a lovely story.
Read full review in the 2019 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2019 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 18, 2019
"Lacewood: A Novel of Time and Place" is an intriguing, involving, and haunting romantic tale from superb storyteller Jessica James. With her immaculate eye for historical detail and her beautifully-descriptive writing, she sweeps readers into a past world which is deeply entwined with the events unfolding in the present day. An impulsive escape from big-city emptiness takes Katie McCain on a search for her family roots in Virginia. Lost and confused after a wrong turn, she she unexpectedly comes across a long-unused mansion with a "For Sale" sign. She is immediately captivated by the once-grand home. and instinct propels her to purchase the property. It is no small undertaking to restore a centuries-old mansion to its former glory, and Katie accepts the help of Will Donovan.who has come home to the small community of New Hope. As their work progresses, Katie and Will are not only drawn to each other, but to the Civil War history of the home and the love story of those who lived there long ago. As mysteries and secrets come to light, Lacewood becomes much more than a structure--it seems to take on a life of its own. Katie and Will each have their own issues to resolve in order to clear the way to a bright and happy future--will it be the past that helps them find that future? "Lacewood: A Novel of Time and Place" is highly recommended for lovers of romantic stories full of history, mystery, faith, and most of all, true hearts.
Book Copy Gratis Author
Book Copy Gratis Author
June 4, 2019
(4.5 stars) - my kind of ghost story
This is a lovely story of healing & hope with a hint of spiritual guidance in the paranormal as well as Providential sense.
Katie & Will have both been damaged in different yet similar ways. (Warning: Katie cries. Easily. A lot.) They meet & find that they are at a point in their lives where they are each what the other needs.
The mood building is nicely done - spooky but not fearfully so, for the most part. (I tend toward anxiety & it didn't stress me at all) And the characters are frequently witty & amusing.
At times the narrative left me a little confused as to what was going on, but continuing on filled in the context. (That seems to be a writing trend or something, but as a reader, I find plot jumps with backfill frustrating)
The final chapter is effectively the epilogue. And it's satisfying, but oddly, it's all narrative with no cut scene or dialogue. I think including a happily-ever-after exchange of some sort between the main characters would have made it even better.
All that said, it's a really well done "ghost" story, & I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Clean romance level: passionate kisses
Religion: MCs attend church, wrestle a bit with the question of God allowing bad things, some general spiritual references but all completely organic to the story & everything is open-ended. Only a determined anti-theist could complain.
Use of "Lordy" & "Jeezus"
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a lovely story of healing & hope with a hint of spiritual guidance in the paranormal as well as Providential sense.
Katie & Will have both been damaged in different yet similar ways. (Warning: Katie cries. Easily. A lot.) They meet & find that they are at a point in their lives where they are each what the other needs.
The mood building is nicely done - spooky but not fearfully so, for the most part. (I tend toward anxiety & it didn't stress me at all) And the characters are frequently witty & amusing.
At times the narrative left me a little confused as to what was going on, but continuing on filled in the context. (That seems to be a writing trend or something, but as a reader, I find plot jumps with backfill frustrating)
The final chapter is effectively the epilogue. And it's satisfying, but oddly, it's all narrative with no cut scene or dialogue. I think including a happily-ever-after exchange of some sort between the main characters would have made it even better.
All that said, it's a really well done "ghost" story, & I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Clean romance level: passionate kisses
Religion: MCs attend church, wrestle a bit with the question of God allowing bad things, some general spiritual references but all completely organic to the story & everything is open-ended. Only a determined anti-theist could complain.
Use of "Lordy" & "Jeezus"
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 19, 2020
Reels you in
An amazing book about the past, present and love that never dies.I loved it and you will too. I was sucked in and had to find out the mystery behind the forgotten house.
An amazing book about the past, present and love that never dies.I loved it and you will too. I was sucked in and had to find out the mystery behind the forgotten house.
October 20, 2020
3.5⭐
I liked the storyline and the history in this book, but I picked it up thinking it was a Christian fiction. Although it did mention God and trust in a higher power, it did have a few swear words and other things that I just don't expect in my Christian fiction.🤷♀️
I liked the storyline and the history in this book, but I picked it up thinking it was a Christian fiction. Although it did mention God and trust in a higher power, it did have a few swear words and other things that I just don't expect in my Christian fiction.🤷♀️
May 21, 2019
I fell in love with this story. I loved how Jessica James started with modern day and then took us back to the days of the Civil War, and then brought us back to modern day. The story is extremely well written and I felt as though I were there in each scene watching it unfold. I fell in love with the characters and I read each page with anticipation of what was going to happen next. I honestly did not want the story to end.
I received and advance readers copy and this is my honest and unbiased review.
I received and advance readers copy and this is my honest and unbiased review.
June 26, 2019
I loved the book and didn’t want it to end.
July 7, 2019
I loved this book. I don’t usually care for contemporary romances, but I fell into part one if this book- which turned out to be the ‘Present’...which soon opened the door to the PAST—Part Two. I loved it. It too me to the Virginia lines with the Civil War. The characters were, by now, fascinating and already well known to me.
It truly was a story of how the past and present walk alongside each other...and how there is a master plan. Highly recommend—as I do with all Jessica James’ historical romances. She is a fabulous story teller.
It truly was a story of how the past and present walk alongside each other...and how there is a master plan. Highly recommend—as I do with all Jessica James’ historical romances. She is a fabulous story teller.
August 11, 2019
This is an awesome book, looking back into our history. Katie had no idea what she stumbled onto when she found Lacewood. The old house helped her find the much needed healing she needed and to reconnect with her own history. Taking a look back into the Civil War and how it affected their many loved ones, was just what Katie and Will both needed to uncover the demons they were covering up. This is a fantastic story! I would recommend this one to anyone. Thanks Jessica James, I have enjoyed many, many of your stories and this was a great addition to the others. LOVED IT!!
June 19, 2019
I'm just in love with this story! It's the kind of story I've been craving for a long time
I purchased the paperback at a book signing event in Gettysburg, PA. Prior to the event, doing my research on the attending authors, most of whom write 'sexy, steamy, rocker and biker romanotica (romance/erotica)'. Then I came across Jessica Jame's information and read the blurb for Lacewood and immediately preordered.
I'm not a civil war history buff. I do love history and historic fiction though - I just generally gravitate toward other eras. But the blurb made me think of all the old mansions that are abandoned near where I live in Virginia and my dream of one day restoring one and all the secrets it would reveal to me. So naturally, I'm enthralled by this book.
But it's not just because Katie McCain, the main character is living my dream. The writing draws you in. The descriptions of the thunder lighting up the wood floors and mantels, the hidden passages that reveal secrets, the vines on the gravestones of the family cemetery, Rosie the tractor, all of these details stick with you and will be remembered long after finishing the book.
The characters are exactly like what I've experienced in small towns, friendly, in a simple, easy way of day to day life. Even Will, the broody, handsome local man is witty and charismatic once he opens up.
It IS a lot of narrative but it's building a world for the reader. You're discovering the secrets of Lacewood and the nuances of New Hope like you're discovering the personality and quirks of a life long friend. Each piece of information you're given just makes you want to find out more.
This story has a richness and depth of characters, plot, and setting that is bound stick with you long after you've finished.
I purchased the paperback at a book signing event in Gettysburg, PA. Prior to the event, doing my research on the attending authors, most of whom write 'sexy, steamy, rocker and biker romanotica (romance/erotica)'. Then I came across Jessica Jame's information and read the blurb for Lacewood and immediately preordered.
I'm not a civil war history buff. I do love history and historic fiction though - I just generally gravitate toward other eras. But the blurb made me think of all the old mansions that are abandoned near where I live in Virginia and my dream of one day restoring one and all the secrets it would reveal to me. So naturally, I'm enthralled by this book.
But it's not just because Katie McCain, the main character is living my dream. The writing draws you in. The descriptions of the thunder lighting up the wood floors and mantels, the hidden passages that reveal secrets, the vines on the gravestones of the family cemetery, Rosie the tractor, all of these details stick with you and will be remembered long after finishing the book.
The characters are exactly like what I've experienced in small towns, friendly, in a simple, easy way of day to day life. Even Will, the broody, handsome local man is witty and charismatic once he opens up.
It IS a lot of narrative but it's building a world for the reader. You're discovering the secrets of Lacewood and the nuances of New Hope like you're discovering the personality and quirks of a life long friend. Each piece of information you're given just makes you want to find out more.
This story has a richness and depth of characters, plot, and setting that is bound stick with you long after you've finished.
June 16, 2019
I had no idea what to expect when I started reading this. I am not a big historical fan, but it sounded so intriguing! I LOVE old homes and I loved the idea of finding out the history of the owners. It is sooo hard for me to express in words my love for this book, but I'm going to try!
Everything about the Lacewood property had me completely hooked from the moment Katie went inside to look around. You could tell home much history there was to be told! I absolutely loved the instant connection Katie felt when she went in and I knew the story would be magnificent. Katie, herself, was super interesting to me too. We never really learned "everything" about her, but it was super nice to see someone want to step out of the spotlight and be "normal." The task that Katie took on restoring Lacewood was HUGE. BUT, I love how she wanted to do it herself and how she really wanted to make the place shine like it used to. Insert Will, he was so damn perfect for this story! I loved how he had this extensive past, and how he was just as tied to Lacewood as Katie. There was so much mystery to him too, I liked that he wasn't an open book. Katie had to truly work to find out who he was.
There were so many layers to this book, and I love how Jessica went about them. I loved how we got to go on this amazing journey with Katie and Will. From discovering places on the property and in the home, to finding these treasures of the history of Lacewood and its owners. Now, I'm not a person who loves historical anything, in face, I usually avoid them like the plague. This story had me so intrigued though and I couldn't wait to see if Jessica would take us back to the civil war days and get to see things from Annie's perspective. Never in my life have I wanted anything more!!! The whole story was just so beautifully done. We got to learn so much about the Civil War, the story of Lacewood and we got to see Katie and Josh grow in so many different ways. The story was also so emotional and touching. I loved every single second!!!
Everything about the Lacewood property had me completely hooked from the moment Katie went inside to look around. You could tell home much history there was to be told! I absolutely loved the instant connection Katie felt when she went in and I knew the story would be magnificent. Katie, herself, was super interesting to me too. We never really learned "everything" about her, but it was super nice to see someone want to step out of the spotlight and be "normal." The task that Katie took on restoring Lacewood was HUGE. BUT, I love how she wanted to do it herself and how she really wanted to make the place shine like it used to. Insert Will, he was so damn perfect for this story! I loved how he had this extensive past, and how he was just as tied to Lacewood as Katie. There was so much mystery to him too, I liked that he wasn't an open book. Katie had to truly work to find out who he was.
There were so many layers to this book, and I love how Jessica went about them. I loved how we got to go on this amazing journey with Katie and Will. From discovering places on the property and in the home, to finding these treasures of the history of Lacewood and its owners. Now, I'm not a person who loves historical anything, in face, I usually avoid them like the plague. This story had me so intrigued though and I couldn't wait to see if Jessica would take us back to the civil war days and get to see things from Annie's perspective. Never in my life have I wanted anything more!!! The whole story was just so beautifully done. We got to learn so much about the Civil War, the story of Lacewood and we got to see Katie and Josh grow in so many different ways. The story was also so emotional and touching. I loved every single second!!!
June 11, 2019
- Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review -
2.5 stars.
A quote (from ARC):
«“But you know how small towns and young boys get along. New Hope was too slow and too boring. He was always the type to run toward risk. As soon as he was able, he joined the service.”»
A handsome guilt-ridden hero, dealing with survivor’s guilt, in a story about a place – Lacewood, New Hope – and American history, this book left me indifferent and didn’t really hold my interest, although I found Annie and Jonathon’s romance (past plotline) movingly sad.
The contemporary plotline felt a bit too slow, with too much telling instead of showing. I couldn’t care about the characters – Katie and Will – and I felt Will’s mentioned physical and/or emotional wounds were only barely addressed.
2.5 stars.
A quote (from ARC):
«“But you know how small towns and young boys get along. New Hope was too slow and too boring. He was always the type to run toward risk. As soon as he was able, he joined the service.”»
A handsome guilt-ridden hero, dealing with survivor’s guilt, in a story about a place – Lacewood, New Hope – and American history, this book left me indifferent and didn’t really hold my interest, although I found Annie and Jonathon’s romance (past plotline) movingly sad.
The contemporary plotline felt a bit too slow, with too much telling instead of showing. I couldn’t care about the characters – Katie and Will – and I felt Will’s mentioned physical and/or emotional wounds were only barely addressed.
June 17, 2019
Lacewood: A Novel of Time and Place is my first introduction to Jessica James and her books. After reading this one, it will not be the last. I enjoyed Katie's story and how she solving the mystery of the past. I was not sure about her at first but she quickly grew on me and I could not put the book down.
I loved Lacewood: A Novel of Time and Place and I am giving it a well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it.
Fabulous read!
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I loved Lacewood: A Novel of Time and Place and I am giving it a well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it.
Fabulous read!
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
Read
June 21, 2019I loved reading this book! I hope that it will be turned into a movie, someday if it isn't one already.
The writing is magnificent. It's easy to read, it's interesting, and there is a story to it that is more than just a romance thrown together. The writer really took the time to build the characters and the story.
The book is written in modern time where Katie McCain stumbles upon an old mansion in Virginia. The house calls to her and so she buys it, no questions asked and without caring about the cost.
As she fixes up this old and abandoned house, she finds clues about it's past from when the Civil War was in action.
The book made me realize that the Civil War wasn't as long ago as I thought and perhaps that's why it's still fresh in other's minds.
It was amazing to read how two people who were on opposite sides could fall in love and how much a community could unite together. It was heartbreaking to think of those who volunteered to fight for their states and country.
The best part of this book is that it's two different love stories combined to make one awesome one. I would love to read more books from this author.
The writing is magnificent. It's easy to read, it's interesting, and there is a story to it that is more than just a romance thrown together. The writer really took the time to build the characters and the story.
The book is written in modern time where Katie McCain stumbles upon an old mansion in Virginia. The house calls to her and so she buys it, no questions asked and without caring about the cost.
As she fixes up this old and abandoned house, she finds clues about it's past from when the Civil War was in action.
The book made me realize that the Civil War wasn't as long ago as I thought and perhaps that's why it's still fresh in other's minds.
It was amazing to read how two people who were on opposite sides could fall in love and how much a community could unite together. It was heartbreaking to think of those who volunteered to fight for their states and country.
The best part of this book is that it's two different love stories combined to make one awesome one. I would love to read more books from this author.
June 20, 2019
She needed a new place to rebuild so she goes to a new town where she finds a old house which she falls in love with. There is a mystery about the previous owner. She tries to find out what it is. He returns home and he may just be able to help her heal. See if he will
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 24, 2019
Wow! Great book!
Loved characters and visuals of house! I would recommend to everyone. Pain, sorrow, history and love, this book has it all!
Loved characters and visuals of house! I would recommend to everyone. Pain, sorrow, history and love, this book has it all!
June 18, 2019
I really enjoyed this story and loved going back in time to the Civil War to try to solve a centuries-old mystery. A wonderfully descriptive story of love and loss.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2019
I am not quite sure what to make of this book. I think the author had an interesting premise, but it was not fully realized on several fronts. I found the first part of the book to be so dull that I almost did not continue. Nearly 10% of the book is just taken up with how the heroine got to New Hope and her walk around Lacewood manor. Another significant portion just following this seemed to just detail home repair and the heroine's growing involvement with the future hero. Things get more interesting when the heroine finds out more about the old home’s previous owners through artifacts and letters.
But then the book does a strange flip. Part 1 takes place in the present, and then part 2, which doesn't happen until after the 75% mark, takes us back to the Civil War past of the manor. The last 7% or so is part 3 and takes place in the present again. These broad jumps in time made the book feel disjointed. Rather than have parts, and such lopsided parts, I think the book would have been better if the past storyline had been integrated with the present one. For example, the author could have interleaved pertinent past chapters within the current storyline as interrupters, especially if they illuminated what the current heroine found. It would have made for a more cohesive story and overall plot line. I also felt that the author's prose was too flowery in places, especially in the beginning section, and was a little too heavily dependent on descriptive words like adjectives and adverbs that actually distracted from the reading because it was overloaded with unnecessary details.
While I completely bought into the Civil War romance (even if the hero of that arc seemed too good in general and an unbelievably fantastic love letter writer), I didn’t get any chemistry from the contemporary couple. Their romance didn’t hit all the right notes (conventions and obligatory scenes) that a love story should have. The big themes that the writer promised would be shown in the blurb were not realized in the book itself (though we were TOLD they were addressed by the characters). In all, I found this book unsatisfying.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
But then the book does a strange flip. Part 1 takes place in the present, and then part 2, which doesn't happen until after the 75% mark, takes us back to the Civil War past of the manor. The last 7% or so is part 3 and takes place in the present again. These broad jumps in time made the book feel disjointed. Rather than have parts, and such lopsided parts, I think the book would have been better if the past storyline had been integrated with the present one. For example, the author could have interleaved pertinent past chapters within the current storyline as interrupters, especially if they illuminated what the current heroine found. It would have made for a more cohesive story and overall plot line. I also felt that the author's prose was too flowery in places, especially in the beginning section, and was a little too heavily dependent on descriptive words like adjectives and adverbs that actually distracted from the reading because it was overloaded with unnecessary details.
While I completely bought into the Civil War romance (even if the hero of that arc seemed too good in general and an unbelievably fantastic love letter writer), I didn’t get any chemistry from the contemporary couple. Their romance didn’t hit all the right notes (conventions and obligatory scenes) that a love story should have. The big themes that the writer promised would be shown in the blurb were not realized in the book itself (though we were TOLD they were addressed by the characters). In all, I found this book unsatisfying.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
September 25, 2023
Lacewood is a standalone story where the main character and setting is a house. Set in Virginia, the reader learns about the Civil War and what it was like during that time for all involved. Annie, one of the characters from the past, is from New York, so she has a bit to contend with! Katie, from the present, is also from the 'North', but has her roots in the Virginian soil.
There was information about Katie, but nothing too much about what she did prior to being at Lacewood, just that she was very wealthy. You learn more about the characters from the past as Katie delves into the stories behind Lacewood. Will is the main character in the present, and to be fair, what you see is what you get with him. You don't actually get too much backstory, or even that much involvement, with him.
Although I enjoyed having this book split into three parts (present, past, present), at the same time it was a bit jarring when it changed. There was no build-up to the change, it just happened. And when we returned to the present, it felt like quite some time had passed, and yet I have no idea how long it was.
For me, the main characters were Annie and Jon. They are the ones that made this story for me, involving me in their lives, and wanting to know exactly what had happened to them. I also wanted to know more about Molly and her baby, and how they coped after Luke was killed.
A gentle read, with oodles of Southern charm, I have no hesitation in recommending this. This was the first book by this author I have read, and I wouldn't mind reading more of her work.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 19, 2019
There was information about Katie, but nothing too much about what she did prior to being at Lacewood, just that she was very wealthy. You learn more about the characters from the past as Katie delves into the stories behind Lacewood. Will is the main character in the present, and to be fair, what you see is what you get with him. You don't actually get too much backstory, or even that much involvement, with him.
Although I enjoyed having this book split into three parts (present, past, present), at the same time it was a bit jarring when it changed. There was no build-up to the change, it just happened. And when we returned to the present, it felt like quite some time had passed, and yet I have no idea how long it was.
For me, the main characters were Annie and Jon. They are the ones that made this story for me, involving me in their lives, and wanting to know exactly what had happened to them. I also wanted to know more about Molly and her baby, and how they coped after Luke was killed.
A gentle read, with oodles of Southern charm, I have no hesitation in recommending this. This was the first book by this author I have read, and I wouldn't mind reading more of her work.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 19, 2019
July 15, 2019
Jessica James had me from page one with this book. I loved everything about this book the couple of ghost sightings, the genealogy, the shadows of the past, the mystery, the friendship, the healing ETC
The story is described so clearly you can see everything in your minds eye as if you are actually there. The book was not overly described with useless descriptions f people, places, and things that lend nothing to the story. I personally really appreciate that.
Reluctant New York socialite Katie McCain decides to take a detour on a return trip from Washington DC home to New York. Her Grandmother passed away several years ago when Katie was a teenager. Katie remembers spending time with hr Grandmother as the happiest time in her young life. While on the detour Katie runs across Lacewood Mansion in the middle of nowhere. The Mansion and grounds are abandoned and over grown, but something about the place beckons to Katie and impulsively she buys it.
Katie decides to restore the home and do as much as possible by herself. A she beings she starts finding clues from thee past of the family who lived there 150 years before. The more
she discovers about the family the more she feels at home in Lacewood.
This is where we meet hometown hero Will Durham. Home from the war with a bit of PTSD and a lots of remorse after not being able to save his best friend. Will is sullen and hard to read for Katie but he decides to help her with restore the house if he can live in the caretakers cabin. Katie agrees. This is also where the love story begins.
The book is broken down into 3 parts. Part 1 is the build up to the love story. Part 2 is Annie's story. Annie is the past owner. Than Part 3 is the end of the book and the culmination of the first 2 parts and their love story.
Thanks Netgalley for another get book.
The story is described so clearly you can see everything in your minds eye as if you are actually there. The book was not overly described with useless descriptions f people, places, and things that lend nothing to the story. I personally really appreciate that.
Reluctant New York socialite Katie McCain decides to take a detour on a return trip from Washington DC home to New York. Her Grandmother passed away several years ago when Katie was a teenager. Katie remembers spending time with hr Grandmother as the happiest time in her young life. While on the detour Katie runs across Lacewood Mansion in the middle of nowhere. The Mansion and grounds are abandoned and over grown, but something about the place beckons to Katie and impulsively she buys it.
Katie decides to restore the home and do as much as possible by herself. A she beings she starts finding clues from thee past of the family who lived there 150 years before. The more
she discovers about the family the more she feels at home in Lacewood.
This is where we meet hometown hero Will Durham. Home from the war with a bit of PTSD and a lots of remorse after not being able to save his best friend. Will is sullen and hard to read for Katie but he decides to help her with restore the house if he can live in the caretakers cabin. Katie agrees. This is also where the love story begins.
The book is broken down into 3 parts. Part 1 is the build up to the love story. Part 2 is Annie's story. Annie is the past owner. Than Part 3 is the end of the book and the culmination of the first 2 parts and their love story.
Thanks Netgalley for another get book.
June 16, 2020
The beauty of Lacewood captures you as Katie describing with that first look, not the dust and neglect over the years.
The peace and quiet, the healing she was needing. No more being waited on, the work now was her working on her own home.
Will comes to help weed the back acreage for her, a cottage, he wants to rent. A man of few words, also wanting the pease and quiet .
These two are drawn to one another. An unease he didn’t know how to handle, or a protection he felt needed, toward her.
As she is drawn to initials carved in the wood on a window sill, the life of a widow who last lived her. The time capsules of treasures she has found
That connects the past and the future together, she is drawn to piece together. A story that draws one in and unfolds as does the mystery of Lacewood. Well written, and enjoyable to read.
The peace and quiet, the healing she was needing. No more being waited on, the work now was her working on her own home.
Will comes to help weed the back acreage for her, a cottage, he wants to rent. A man of few words, also wanting the pease and quiet .
These two are drawn to one another. An unease he didn’t know how to handle, or a protection he felt needed, toward her.
As she is drawn to initials carved in the wood on a window sill, the life of a widow who last lived her. The time capsules of treasures she has found
That connects the past and the future together, she is drawn to piece together. A story that draws one in and unfolds as does the mystery of Lacewood. Well written, and enjoyable to read.
June 30, 2019
This book was gifted to me by my mom and I am glad she sent it as I would have missed out on a wonderful story. From the first page I was hooked. I wanted to know more about Kate and Will and then I wanted to know what happened with Annie and Jon. The story takes place in present day Virginia with Kate and Will but Annie and Jon lived in the same house during the Civil War and it was interesting to think about how the present day walked in the same places as those who came before them. Every time I put the book down I kept thinking about the characters and wondered where they would lead me next.
August 9, 2020
The best novel I've read in a long time. You felt like you were actually in the situation and part of the book. The story was really good and the characters were great and sometimes funny. I guess being a born and bred Virginian had some impact on me and the fact that my great, great grandfather died in Petersburg during the War but not from bullets. Typhoid killed him. I have the only picture ever taken of him and it was made in Petersburg and he was in full uniform. I'm going to look up some more Jessica James books and see if I like them as much. Give it a try, you'll be glad you did.
April 1, 2019
**Review coming soon**
February 2, 2020
An absolute must read! Well-written, captivating, and lovely. Highly recommended novel from Jessica James. Read this one and every one her novels. Happy reading!
May 5, 2020
A timeless captivating love story for the ages. If you like the books and movie, "The Goodwitch," then you're going to love "Lacewood."
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