The Songstress

by Lori Bates Wright

Rising opera star, Juliana Chamberlain, still has nightmares of the night she witnessed the assassination of the President of the United States from her spot on stage at Ford Theater. Recruited by The Pinkerton Detective Agency, Juliana was instrumental in bringing those responsible to justice.

Two years later, the Pinkertons once again ask her to join forces in exposing a corrupt political organization terrorizing her home in Texas.

Texas Ranger, Cade Matlock, has a job to do. He needs no help from a meddlesome lady agent with big ideas. However, he’s a man of his word, and commits to partnering with the lovely songstress to smoke out a political mastermind with a thirst for vengeance.

Juliana trusts no one until her life is placed in the hands of the handsome Ranger. Soon, they discover their only hope of survival depends on banding together, but will shadows of her past rise to destroy their future?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical Romance, Historical, Romantic Suspense, Mystery

330 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 27, 2021

About the author

Lori is a child of the Southwest. Raised in New Mexico, she now lives in Texas with her husband of 40 years. She has two grown kids, four amazing grandsons, and one nutty little pomeranian named Zuzu.

Reviews

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful historical fiction adventure! The Songstress is the first in the brand new series called "A Matter of Intrigue" by Lori Bates Wright. This series follows some of the Pinkerton ladies and their efforts to fight crime. Mr. Pinkerton "prided himself in retaining the best operatives in the country, including his impressive list of female spies."

This story of Juliana Chamberlain and Cade Matlock is fabulous. Fans of historical fiction will love this story that begins with Juliana on the stage who witnesses the murder of President Lincoln at Ford's theater, then later travels to her home state of Texas to root out political corruption. And her male Pinkerton partner who is not all that keen on having a female partner!

"She needed to grieve properly or should be a ticking time bomb from here on out."

"Good people banning together, refusing to be intimidated, is what it would take to stop them."

"Life was sometimes unpredictable' is an understatement in the life of a Pinkerton agent!

I love the writing style of Author Lori Bates Wright and I am very much looking forward to the next two books in this series. Fans of historical fiction will love this action-packed romance!

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a soft spot for Abe Lincoln, so between knowing he was part of the story, albeit a small one, combined with the gorgeous cover, I knew this was a must read for me. Let me tell you this – it’s a must read for you too. Lori Bates Wright has given readers such a wonderfully exciting, yet different kind of story line. I mean, a rising opera star is not really my idea of a fun read. Correction – was. It didn’t take me long to be mesmerized by Juliana’s voice (yes I could hear it in my head at times). Quite honestly, I was mesmerized by her character. She was full of surprises for me. Then enter Cade Matlock into the scene. He made the story even better!

I will note that the middle of the book (or thereabouts) seemed to be slower paced for me. But it wasn’t for an extremely long time, and I’m glad I kept reading because the storyline picked back up and I was once again entranced. All the way to the end in fact! Not only did I learn a thing or two about the Pinkerton Agency, I had fun while doing it. I call that a win-win!

I think historical fiction fans will enjoy The Songstress. I look forward to more from Lori Bates Wright! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kim - Inside the Wong Mind · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Songstress
by Lori Bates Wright
Book 1 in A Matter of Time series
Rating: 4/5

When I read the description for this book, I knew I needed to read this story. As someone who thoroughly enjoys reading stories about the ladies who worked for the Pinkerton Agency, I was delighted to find this story and realize how entertaining and fast-paced this story would be.

After witnessing the assassination of President Lincoln from the stage, Juliana Chamberlain was able to identify key people involved and began working for the Pinkerton Agency. As a renown opera singer, she traveled the world, but when she decides to retire as a singer, the agency has one more assignment for her involving her uncle and aunt in Texas. When Texas Ranger, Major Cade Matlock, finds himself as her partner, he doubts her abilities as an agent and is rudely surprised at Juliana's skills. The two of them are out to discover what is happening in post-Civil War Texas behind the scenes and what happened on her uncle's farm. Juliana must revisit her past to face her future. Cade must find a way to protect the ones he cares about.

I loved the two of them together. They are so cute and work really well together. Juliana is very smart and skillful as an actress which helps on her assignments. She is also well-trained for physical combat, which I appreciated. Cade is someone that Juliana can actually rely on to have her back and support her. Cade is someone who understands her and accepts her.

I also loved how power Juliana's voice and song was portrayed in the story. Her voice and song captivated all those around her, and I just loved how her singing made everyone pause. As someone who sings and plays piano, I love the power of music and the emotions one can portray. The atmosphere can change in an instant when a song is sung or played.

The author did a great job of keeping me interested the whole time and I definitely read the book in a day. Highly recommend this exciting adventure story with romance and lots of action. I'm excited to read the next book in the series, especially since the author set it up at the end.

My thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.

I ended up reading the book on Kindle Unlimited too.

[Robin Mason · Rating 4 out of 5]

This reader has a particular affinity for all things Abraham Lincoln—I share his birthday! This reader also knows something of pre-curtain-backstage nerves—and I totally felt Julianna’s frustration and ramped up anxiety at her performance being put off. Twice!
The opening of this story was gripping, horrifying! And rather accurate to the actual events; I hadn’t realized that John Wilkes Booth was an actor, nor that the cast and crew of the play were all detained for questioning—what a brilliant stroke of creativity that Ms. Wright gives us with Julianna’s point of view! And what a unique perspective an actress has, too!
None too happy to be paired with a woman agent, Cowboy Cade learned quickly that Julianna didn’t need to be treated with kid gloves, and that she has a stubborn streak the size of Texas.
Once they came to agreement that they were working toward the same goal—after no small bit of contention—Cade and “Jules” were able to accomplish what they set out to do. And what they both had determined NOT to do—[SPOILER.]
All the characters in this story were well-rounded, three-dimensional, personable and likeable. Well, except the villains who were most UN-likeable. A generous dose of humor and camaraderie was well pitted against the backdrop of suspense and danger.
With the balance of history and fiction, romance and business, the precarious balance between the Union and the Confederacy—and between Cade and Julianna—Ms. Wright’s story is a page-turner to the end.

ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, The Songstress, Lori Bates Wright, Celebrate Lit Publicity

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Songstress by Lori Bates Wright is the first book in her A Matter of Intrigue series. Juliana Chamberlain, The Girl with the Golden Voice, is a young opera star. Haunted by the tragic events at the Ford Theater she helps the Pinkerton Detective Agency arrest those responsible. Now the Pinkerton’s have another assignment for her. I’ve always enjoyed a Pinkerton mystery, but a female Pinkerton makes it even better. I liked Juliana’s character. Even though she was terrified she completed her mission and didn’t let the fear stop her.


I received this book from Celebrate-Lit for my honest review.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Songstress" by Lori Bates Wright is a story that I really enjoyed. I was drawn into the story from the beginning! This is the first book in the series.I really like stories that features the P
inkerton ladies and their efforts to fight crime. This story is action packed. There were a few scenes that had me sitting up straight in my chair because I didn't want to miss anything. There were a few scenes that made me sad, how could family members be so uncaring? Guess you will have to read and fine out what I am talking about!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Becky Fleming · Rating 5 out of 5]

Action packed with a good dose of romance and a sprinkling of faith - The Songstress by Lori Bates Wright kept me turning the pages! This historical fiction lives up to its series name -A Matter of Intrigue. Fast paced with danger and suspense. Very satisfying end!

[Jennifer K · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the opening pages of this story, I was hooked. And who wouldn’t be with President Lincoln attending Ford’s Theater that fateful night? From there, Wright took me to Texas on quite an adventure. I was absolutely entertained by the tension in the relationship between this female Pinkerton and her Texas Ranger. But all was not fun and games as they quickly faced danger while tracking down criminals. I much appreciated the faith lessons included along the way including one about forgiveness. The creative storyline kept my interest all the way to the……oops, spoiler alert. Well, you get the idea. This historical fiction had everything a good story needed: wonderful characters, adventure, romance, suspense and humor. I am already looking forward to the next book in the series! I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read and enjoyed each of Lori Bates Wright’s books I was eager to dive into her latest release, The Songstress, the first book in her new series titled A Matter of Intrigue and revolving around Pinkerton detectives. The detective agency had a number of female operatives and this story centers around a fictional one named Juliana Chamberlain. The prologue grabbed my attention immediately, taking me back to Ford’s Theater in 1865. What follows is a riveting drama taking place three years later in the Reconstruction Era, laced with constant danger and intrigue. The romance did not seem the primary focus of the story but was sweet and developed gradually. The hero, Cade, was strong and rugged as well as brave and thoughtful. The inspirational element was present but more subdued than in the author’s other books. A very engrossing read, I found myself almost on the edge of my seat as various precarious situations unfolded. If you enjoy page-turning, clean historical romance, you will love this book!

I received a free copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are my own.

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Songstress by author Lori Bates Wright is book one in her new historical Christian Series, A Matter of Intrigue. I was immediately mesmerized by the beautiful cover and was eager to read the story inside. It was not disappointing and lived up to the amazing cover!

This is the story of Juliana Chamberlain. Juliana has a lovely singing voice and also helps the Pinkerton Agency solve cases. Juliana was getting ready to sing at the theatre the night President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated and witnessed it. Years later she still has nightmares about it.

The Pinkerton need her help on a case in her hometown in Texas. There she partners with Texas Ranger Cade Matlock. Cade is not sold on a female, opera singer no less, helping him. The story goes into high gear and becomes a fast-paced, page-turning captivating wonder.

Author Wright has done an excellent job with this tale. I was invested in the character of Juliana from the very beginning. The plot was interesting and the momentum kept building. All characters were believable and well rounded. Conversations were smooth and flowed without a hitch. There were plenty of twists, turns, and surprises to make it interesting.

I loved everything about this book. It had history, action, mystery, romance, intrigue, and inspirational lessons. Five stars is the rating from me. I highly recommend it. A copy was provided by Celebrate Lit, but these are my honest words.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

The opening pages set readers up for an adventure featuring the Pinkerton Detective Agency and a Texas Ranger named Cade. I was devastated about what happened that fateful day that President Lincoln was assassinated. The author does give accurate details of the tragedy which shocked the nation. It must have been so distressing to witness such a brutal attack. This opens the door for the author to pen a tale that lets us see what could have transpired that day when someone from the stage witnessed the event.

Juliana is a beautiful young woman who has a voice like an angel. She was set to sing that night at the theater but instead saw something she will never forget. I liked how she was introduced to the Pinkertons and she became involved with them. This agency was well know and respected. Juliana was a valuable employee for them. She finds herself a few years later taking on a new case that will affect her personally.

Cade, a Texas Ranger is teamed up with Juliana and I knew we would be in for an adventure. Cade is very good at his job but I don’t think he was all that excited to work with Juliana. She can be a little stubborn and outspoken but maybe he can find a way to work with her. Okay I did laugh because I knew that Cade was going to have his hands full. That is what makes their pairing so good. I think they complimented each other and there is hope they will at least become friends.

I loved the political theme in the book and how our two main characters have a task of stopping a dangerous plot that could divide states. The danger arises when Juliana starts to snoop around and gathers information that could take down important figures in the government. The author gives us an intriguing story filled with twists that keep you on your toes. I loved following these two unlikely pair into the depths of political scandal where danger awaits. Get ready for a story that takes part of history and gives us a look at what might have happened on the night after the untimely death of the president.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Songstress is written by Lori Bates Wright. When I got to the end of the book - I was sad. I was sad that it was over. I enjoyed it so much that I did not want the story to end. This is the first book that I have read by this author. When I finished this one, I went and looked up her other books and ordered True Nobility from Amazon. Her writing style flows so well off the pages. I lost all track of time while I was reading.

The Civil War is one of my most favorite time periods. My master thesis involved the use of African Americans and Women as spies during the Revolutionary and Civil War. This book focused on some of my favorite things. We meet Juliana Chamberlain. She is a rising opera star. Her voice is like an angel. She had witnessed the assassination of President Lincoln. It still haunts her. However she is recruited by the Pinkerton Detective Agency. She was able to help bring those to justice.

A few years have passed and Pinkerton wants her help again. They need help in exposing a corrupt political organization terrorizing Texas. I loved Juliana. She was still haunted by what she saw, but knew what she had to do for the good of her country. The Texas Ranger, Cade Matlock that she is paired with, feels like she is a diva and does not know what she is doing. I loved both of these characters. While they were not thrilled with working together, they know that they don't want states divided again. The action and suspense in the book will keep you guessing.

The author kept my attention. I cannot wait until the next book comes out. The book is well written, has memorable characters and is well researched.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program, all thoughts are my own.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, wow, WOW!! This was one of the best historical fiction books I've read in a long time! Plus the cover is stunning! I love the use of the rich deep red of her dress, with the gold accents in the background - it's gorgeous. Anyway, on to the story. The book is about Juliana Chamberlain, an opera singer who witnessed Lincoln's assassination and then came face to face with one of John Wilkes Booth's accomplices. Though it was three years prior to the book, Juliana still has nightmares about that night and because these memories surface every time she gets on stage, she decides to end her career as an opera singer and go to the only home she's ever known - her Aunt and Uncle's farm in Texas. However, things become a bit complicated when she is recruited by the Pinkerton Detective Agency (whom she helped previously), because there is a corrupt political organization terrorizing the area around her family's farm. She agrees and is teamed up with Texas Ranger Cade Matlock who questions having an opera singer as a partner because he fears she will just get in the way. However, she quickly shows him that she is a force to be reckoned with and that she is a valuable partner. Stunned by the murder of her uncle, Juliana and Cade work together to discover who burned down her family's farm, killing her uncle and what it has to do with the corrupt politics in Nacogdoches.

This book has so many twists, turns and surprises that it will keep you reading from page one until the very last page. I love the character of Juliana, because she is so strong and witty and she isn't afraid to do what's right... even if it's dangerous. I also love that she was this beautiful girl that no one suspected was a Lady Detective and then BAM, she would catch them all by surprise (especially because she is left handed). I also really liked that she made you think by putting President Lincoln's assassination at the start of the book, because I never really thought about the poor people on stage who may have witnessed it. Overall, I loved everything about the book and wish I could give it more stars, but I give it 5 out of 5 stars!

Special thanks to Lori Bates Wright, Celebrate Lit and SierraVista Books for allowing me to read and review this book - all opinion.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reading The Songstress was the first time I’ve read a book by Lori Bates Wright. I didn’t really know what to expect from this author, but after reading the premise and seeing the beautiful cover, I knew I needed to be part of this blog tour. This story is all the things it promises to be: adventurous and romantic. I liked the way the author utilized the Lincoln assassination as the catalyst for getting her heroine, Juliana, to become a Pinkerton spy. I’ve never really studied the Pinkertons before, so to learn that females played a small, but integral, part in the organization was pretty cool. I also thought it clever to use Lincoln-assassination conspirators who got away the night Lincoln was shot as the bad guys for this storyline. The main characters did feel a tad too caricature for me, but they are wholesome and sweet overall. The author did a great job with the villains. The bad guys are pretty vile. They are the reason I kept turning pages — I needed to know how they were going to be defeated. The pacing of the story, for the most part, is good, but I did feel that the middle got a little slow. I did like several of the themes that were discussed throughout the story. My favorite topic is brought up by Dandy when he says, “See? He was broke” … “Broke critters just do the best they can to get by.” Truer words have never been spoken. Broken people do the best they can. Overall, I appreciated reading this story and feel like the audience who would love The Songstress best are those readers who love a good Hallmark-style Western.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author, Lori Bates Wright, via Celebrate Lit. I also purchased a copy of this novel in eBook form from Amazon.com on April 27, 2021, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love Christian Historical Romance books. The Songstress by Lori Bates Wright is set in the Cival War Period and is the first book in her new series, A Matter of Intrigue.

Juliana Chamberlain is still terrified with memories of witnessing President Lincoln get assassinated. She worked along with The Pinkerton Detective Agency and helped bring the suspects to justice. Fast forward 2 yrs ahead and The Pinkerton Detective Agency is asking for her help once again. Juliana is being recruited help the Agency, but Texas Ranger Cade Matlock, could prefer to do his job without a female meddling in his job. Cade eventually and reluctantly agrees to work with Juliana in exposing the Political Organization. It seems danger has come their way and they must really work together and not against one another. The closeness in them working together, they realize they might be falling for one another with a romantic flair. Will Juliana and Cade be able to avoid the danger and stop the Terrorizing Political Organization? Will Cade and Juliana find their relationship turn into a Romantic Relationship?

WOW, just WOW!! I truly wasn't expecting to like this book, much less LOVE it as much as I do. The Cival War era isn't one that interest me, but Lori Bates Wright has such a GREAT writing style, that I was very interested. Juliana is such a strong woman. Cade is determined and independent, and then Juliana comes along and captures his heart. The storyline just flows really well from beginning to end and I couldn't put the book down until I was done! I HIGHLY recommend this book!

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Songstress is the first book in Lori Bates wright's new A Matter of Intrigue series... and what a way to kick it off! I must admit that I was initially drawn in by the absolutely stunning cover, and had really hoped the story would live up to that. Thankfully, it far exceeded my expectations.

Right away I was drawn into this story as we are taken back to Ford's theater on the night of Lincoln's assassination. Seeing this historical night from the eyes of the fictional songstress Juliana where she witnessed the whole thing certainly intrigued me. If I'm being honest, I'm not always the biggest fan of stories that take place in this time period, but this was such a unique story that I couldn't help but be drawn in anyway. Filled with intrigue and action throughout, I couldn't put it down. I so enjoyed Juliana's headstrong attitude and really enjoyed the chemistry between her and Cade as well. I enjoyed the twists and turns throughout the story that kept the story moving forward in such an entertaining.

Overall, I thought this was a great story that fans of historical fiction are sure to enjoy. I cannot wait to see what happens in the series next!

**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

[Faith · Rating 3 out of 5]

A historical adventure filled with intrigue and romance.

Picking up two years after the assassination of President Lincoln, Juliana is still haunted by the events of that fateful night. She is recruited to help bring down a political extremist bent on revenge. She is a strong woman, capable of saving the day herself.

This book is a little slower to start as the plot unfolds, and it takes a while the characters to trust one another. It has an interesting plot with plenty of twists and surprise connections along the way. Cade is a Texas Ranger, and isn't exactly happy to be working with Juliana to start, he is dedicated to his job and is good at what he does. I liked his quick thinking and protective nature.

Overall, this book kept me guessing as it didn't spend much times getting into their heads and the reasoning behind their actions, though there were times when I think that would have helped the book to flow better. I did really enjoy Dandy and his story arc over the course of the book, I loved his open and friendly demeanor. The book really picked up as the story progressed, filled with action and twists along the way.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[LisLovesReading E.Espinoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Songstress, by Lori Bates Wright, is the first book in A Matter of Intrigue series. With elements of history, romance, mystery, and adventure, this novel is thoughtfully written and descriptively detailed. Memorable characters and a compelling plot make this book very engaging, while themes of courage, forgiveness, and justice add meaning and emotional resonance. From beginning to end, this novel is a pleasure to read.

As the story unfolds, Ms. Wright successfully brings to life a rural Texas town in the years immediately following the Civil War. Filled with political conspiracy, suspicion, and peril, this setting infuses the plot with relevancy and intrigue. Furthermore, the gripping story featured in this novel is enhanced by interesting characters who are unique and compelling. The characters are bold, talented, clever, courageous, and determined. Their motivations, their faith, and their choices make them appealing and relatable. Though they are challenged by events that test their assumptions, their dreams, and their faith, they are able to recognize God’s grace and provision. Even when facing danger and uncertainty, their tenacity and fortitude is inspiring.

With Ms. Wright’s excellent research and beautiful storytelling, The Songstress is a moving novel of faith, forgiveness, trust, and truth. Satisfying and enjoyable, it is a thoughtful and uplifting book. I am happy to recommend it.

*I was given a copy of this novel by CelebrateLit and the author/publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even after the North won the war and Lincoln was assassinated, the political scene is still in turmoil in parts of Texas. Opera singer, sometimes Pinkerton agent informant Juliana has just received some devastating news from her home state of Texas. Her childhood home is no more and tragedy has touched her family. She is tasked with weeding out who the evil is and with the help of Texas Ranger Cade Matlock, they hope to stop it. Nobody wants to be in the hands of an evil government regime.

This story was really quite good at keeping the reader turning the pages as the depth of treachery is uncovered. The action adventure reminded me of an old western and I enjoyed the organic attraction that grew from Cade and Juliana working together. I liked that Cade wanted to treat her gently, but she insisted he let her do what she was best at. They made a great team with some lively banter that always had each other's backs. The side characters also made this story quite memorable.

I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Becca Hope · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first saw this book, I was immediately drawn in by that gorgeous cover. And while I'm not a big fan of reading about this era in Christian Fiction, I was intrigued by the synopsis. I can honestly say that Wright did not disappoint.

It did take me a while to actually get into the story. But by the second half, I could not put it down. I just had to know what happened with Juliana and Cade and their case. I also really liked learning about Juliana's past and how it affected her in the present. However, I wish there was more about Cade's backstory. We do get a little bit, but I was left craving more.

I also did think that the relationship between Cade and Juliana was somewhat forced, although the further I read, the more I thought they were good for each other. While both stubborn, they had each other's backs and ensured to make sure no harm came to each other.

Overall, though, if you are someone who likes historical fiction and romance, I would highly suggest this novel. It will leave you on the edge of your seat.

I have received a copy of this book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Songstress is the first book in a brand new series and it is sure to blow you away. It reads quickly with lots of intrigue and fun. I’m a huge fan of historical fiction and this book is wonderful. I can’t wait for more books in the series.

This book focuses on opera singer Juliana and how she helped Pinkerton Agents capture the killers of President Lincoln. Now they’re calling on her again to help them with a new case in her hometown. Juliana has never truly felt safe before. That is until she meets this one man, Ranger Cade. He makes her feel all kinds of things she’s never felt before.

This was a wonderful book and I’m very sad that the next book in the series isn’t out. I highly recommend you read this book and the rest of the series as they come out. Even if you’re not a fan of historical fiction I think you’ll like this one!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who loves reading historical works, I loved The Songstress. This work of fiction begins at the Ford Theater with the death of President Lincoln from the eyes of a female singer. The story then leaps a few years forward with the songstress Juliana Chamberlain retiring from her singing career and serving as a Pinkerton agent trying to help solve a crime involving her aunt and uncle who raised her.

Perhaps because my father threw me out when I was in my 20s, I could appreciate Juliana’s feelings when she encounters her mother. I know I encountered my father today, a lot of feelings and emotions would pour out. I loved the interactions between Texas Ranger Cade Matlock and Juliana. The pair has to come to terms with her serving as a Pinkerton agent. The adventure and danger in this book help bring it to life. The idea of females serving as Pinkerton agents intrigues me. Reading a different series about women serving as Pinkerton agents during this same time period helped bring this book to life for me. So check it out for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but it in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Becca (Reflections From My Bookshelves) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always loved a good spy story and this was a fun one. Set during the post Civil war, this story takes place in Texas. I enjoyed learning more about the time and culture. The post Civil war was one of upheaval and change. Some bad but a lot of good came out of it. The Texas Rangers and the Pinkertons have always been interesting to read about. This story was fun and engaging. I wanted to know what happened. Each character was well developed and played their part well. They felt like real people you could like or dislike. I enjoyed all the banter between Juliana and Cade. It was fun to watch their relationship grow. Lori Bates Wright did a wonderful job weaving the truth of forgiveness and hope and second chances throughout the story. If you want a story that will make you smile, laugh and think, then this is a good story for you.

I recommend this story to my family and friends.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Songstress by Lori Bates Wright is a wonderful Christian Historical Romance. This is the first in the A Matter of Intrigue series, which covers women of the Pinkerton Agency. This story starts with the 1865 assassination of President Lincoln and follows opera star/Pinkerton lady to her home state where she helps track down corrupt politicians.

This is a great story that is filled with action and suspense. These are several twist and turns in the story that I was not expecting, which kept me reading to find out what would happen. This is a well written story with strong characters. The writing is so clear it is easy to imagine what is happening. I enjoyed the issues of faith, forgiveness and family that are in the story. I enjoyed reading of how being a witness to Lincoln’s murder lead to Julia becoming a spy for the Pinkerton Agency. This is a great story and I look forward to reading the rest in the series.

I received a complimentary copy of this story, this is my honest review.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

A tale about seeking the ones who plotted President Lincoln’s death sounded like a compelling premise and I expected to be captivated. However, this intriguing book promised more than it delivered. I expected to be immersed in a suspenseful historical, but the characters didn’t draw me in as I’d hoped. They lacked the depth to make me care passionately about them. Actually, the bad guys seemed better developed than the main characters. The story plodded along in the prescribed plot until the last quarter of the novel when the tension ramped up. I sometimes had trouble keeping track of the characters and whose side they were on, although some of that adds to the mystery, of course. It may have just not resonated with me, and others may feel differently. The writing is fine, and I enjoyed the twists. Here’s a quote I liked: “Unravelling the deception that so often came with the crime brought a certain fulfillment.” I received a copy from Celebrate Lit for this tour. All opinions are my own.

[Marguerite Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Texas Ranger, Pinkerton, undercover agents, and an opera singer. What a combination! Adding the Reconstruction gives rise to a lively tale. I had forgotten what a volatile time it was following the Civil War. Even though not “at war,” the fighting, uncertainty, and hatred remained. And Texas, as the great state’s reputation of independence grew, had quite a few interesting quirks involving trust and support of the US government.
Amid the drama of the uncovering of an evil ring of malicious would-be rulers, the author unfolds a layer of history often unnoticed or unreported. The same happened after the American and French revolutions. What now? After so much death and destruction, how do citizens recapture a lifestyle of peace and prosperity? Each major war has a list of ongoing causalities as well as ones wanting to continue the fight or create new divisive sects. Bravo to the author for weaving a history lesson into the novel.

[Heather Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Juliana Chamberlain is not your usual detective. Pinkerton chose women to help his agency to solve crimes because they could easily be misjudged in their abilities. Juliana may have a beautiful voice but that is not her only talent, which Texas Ranger, Cade Matlock soon finds out.

Right from the beginning, the reader is captivated with Juliana when she experiences a tragedy. The story continues to unfold quickly, taking the reader along for the ride. It is a book that the reader does not want to put down.

Lori Bates Wright was a new author to me and I was not disappointed. I will be adding her other books to my books to be read as well as looking forward to new books by her. I enjoy her style and how I could not put the book down because it held my interest so intently.

I would recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.

[BlueJeansAndTeacups · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall a very good story filled with western heroics and Pinkerton investigations, Texas-sized problems, and more bad guys than you shake a stick at! I enjoyed the story of the opera singer turned Pinkerton and the Ranger protector assigned to work with her. There were definite moments I laughed at their banter and at other moments my stomach lurched at the danger.

Quotable: "Only Allan Pinkerton, the foremost Federal Investigator in the country, had the kind of influence to gain access into her dressing room."

"I'm partial to daisies myself," he added... He wouldn't add that it was because his horse liked to eat them. 😁

I appreciate the advanced reader copy provided by the author and am pleased to recommend book one in A Matter of Intrigue series. All opinions are mine alone.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Songstress starts A Matter of Intrigue series by Lori Bates Wright. It is my first introduction to her writing and it definitely will not be the last. I can see why this series has the word intrigue in it because this book was intriguing. I loved Juliana and Cade right from the start. They made a great team together. Their story was full of adventure, action, history and suspense. I loved it!

I am giving The Songstress a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading well written and clean historical fiction. I can not wait to find out what happens next in A Matter of Intrigue series. I will be looking for other books written by Lori Bates Wright. After reading this one, she has earned a new fan.

I received The Songstress from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Juliana is a great detective, but Cade is, lets just say, skeptical. I love stories about strong women and when they are in roles that are unusual for women in the time period, that makes it even better. This one was great.

There was always something going on and the story didn't slow down. I like that the description of singing and Juliana's voice, music really does have power. Cade and Juliana work well together and I like how their relationship develops into trust and a real partnership. Overall, it was a really good book and I'm glad I read it.

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.