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Hearts Along the River #3
Hidden Affections
Betrayed by her husband, Annabelle Tyler wears the burden of legally being a divorcee, a difficult position for an upstanding young woman to find herself in. While attempting to start a new life for herself, an unexpected turn of events once again has Annabelle married--this time to Harrison Graymoor, the most eligible, yet elusive, bachelor in Philadelphia. Harrison assures her that he will secure an annulment immediately, unaware that the constable has sent word of the marriage to the press in Philadelphia. And here things continue to go awry. Harrison's past, a philanthropic cousin with his eye on Annabelle, and the appearance of Annabelle's ex-husband threaten the tentative relationship growing between Harrison and his "wife." For two individuals set against marriage, there are certainly a lot of second thoughts regarding the one forced upon them.
352 pages, Paperback
First published March 26, 2011
35 people are currently reading
391 people want to read
About the author
Delia Parr
28 books129 followersDelia is the author of fifteen historical novels who now devotes herself to writing inspirational historical romance. The mother of three grown children, she is a full-time high school teacher in southern New Jersey who spends her summers writing on Anna Maria Island in Florida.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
February 8, 2020
I confess I bought this book on a bargain because I loved the cover. The cover does not represent the book in more ways than one.
*Spoilers may follow*
The historical nonsense drove me up a wall. From the beginning where the reason the two of them are cuffed together (Ooooh, with unique Darby cuffs!...uh, at least 90% of the cuffs then were Darby cuffs) is artificially obscured in order to give a more “action” entry, then revealed bit by bit, to the end, things are strangely highlighted and the plot makes zero sense.
This book was such a bad example of the marriage-of-convenience trope. While the heroine is rather likable, the hero is not and continues to growl and be a control freak. It also includes three chapters of a bedroom scene after their marriage, which isn’t a sex scene but which includes undress, a bath, and a man being naked and a woman thinking too much about it FOR THREE CHAPTERS. I almost quit reading then but kept thinking “how much longer can this go on?”
Then they say they want an annulment. 1) All they had to do was to state in public that the marriage was forced and that they did not consent to it. 2) If you want the marriage annulled, don’t move in together and pretend to the servants that you have a normal marriage. 3) You couldn’t have an Indiana divorce if you didn’t live in Indiana. 4) Despite Indiana having looser divorce laws, no-fault divorce was NOT a thing in the 1830s.
I’ll spare you the rest. It just gets more senselessly melodramatic.
*Spoilers may follow*
The historical nonsense drove me up a wall. From the beginning where the reason the two of them are cuffed together (Ooooh, with unique Darby cuffs!...uh, at least 90% of the cuffs then were Darby cuffs) is artificially obscured in order to give a more “action” entry, then revealed bit by bit, to the end, things are strangely highlighted and the plot makes zero sense.
This book was such a bad example of the marriage-of-convenience trope. While the heroine is rather likable, the hero is not and continues to growl and be a control freak. It also includes three chapters of a bedroom scene after their marriage, which isn’t a sex scene but which includes undress, a bath, and a man being naked and a woman thinking too much about it FOR THREE CHAPTERS. I almost quit reading then but kept thinking “how much longer can this go on?”
Then they say they want an annulment. 1) All they had to do was to state in public that the marriage was forced and that they did not consent to it. 2) If you want the marriage annulled, don’t move in together and pretend to the servants that you have a normal marriage. 3) You couldn’t have an Indiana divorce if you didn’t live in Indiana. 4) Despite Indiana having looser divorce laws, no-fault divorce was NOT a thing in the 1830s.
I’ll spare you the rest. It just gets more senselessly melodramatic.
May 12, 2011
The picture on the back cover of this book was all I needed to see to make me look forward to reading this book. The picture shows a pair of chairs in front of a warm fireplace. The reader is looking through a frosty window on a cold day, but the scene inside is warm, cozy and romantic. That was exactly the kind of story I was expecting from Hidden Affections, and that is exactly what I got.
Delia Parr has written a story that felt like a warm blanket on a cold day. This was a story that I really enjoyed and was able to read and relax and enjoy. Although, I must admit that I did start to feel a little overwhelmed by all the tension and drama from Annabelle’s past coming back to haunt her. It did start to feel like a bit much after such a delightful and relaxing read for most of the book. All the tension, though, did make for a very satisfying conclusion once the secrets were out and the problem dealt with.
Overall, Hidden Affections is a very enjoyable book. I loved the story and I loved the characters, including Jonah. I would have preferred a little less tension. Sometimes I just like to read a story free from tension and drama, but that may bore other readers to tears, so I don’t want to let it ruin my overall experience with the book. If you like a nice, romantic stories with characters who are easy to love, then you will love Hidden Affections.
Delia Parr has written a story that felt like a warm blanket on a cold day. This was a story that I really enjoyed and was able to read and relax and enjoy. Although, I must admit that I did start to feel a little overwhelmed by all the tension and drama from Annabelle’s past coming back to haunt her. It did start to feel like a bit much after such a delightful and relaxing read for most of the book. All the tension, though, did make for a very satisfying conclusion once the secrets were out and the problem dealt with.
Overall, Hidden Affections is a very enjoyable book. I loved the story and I loved the characters, including Jonah. I would have preferred a little less tension. Sometimes I just like to read a story free from tension and drama, but that may bore other readers to tears, so I don’t want to let it ruin my overall experience with the book. If you like a nice, romantic stories with characters who are easy to love, then you will love Hidden Affections.
June 3, 2011
The plot premise to “Hidden Affections” grabbed my attention and that coupled with a great cover (smile), I decided to give the book a try.
The first half of the story was intriguing, watching these polar opposite characters, thrust into a marriage of convenience, of the most extreme form (have to read the book to find out) kept me wondering what was going to happen in their relationship.
The secondary characters, especially the housekeeper, were a delight. Her spice even added a bit of the humor factor as the main characters worked out their struggles.
But as the book wound to a close, about 140 pages from the end, I found myself guilty of skimming. The plot seemed a bit slow, but I also wasn’t brought into the “middle” of the story. I know I refer to that a lot in my book reviews, but if I’m not feeling the characters emotions and struggles, I must admit to losing interest.
The book started out strong, but did end a bit weak for me personally. I know from glancing at Amazon that others have loved this book, so take this review with a grain of salt and thanks for taking time to read my personal opinion.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
The first half of the story was intriguing, watching these polar opposite characters, thrust into a marriage of convenience, of the most extreme form (have to read the book to find out) kept me wondering what was going to happen in their relationship.
The secondary characters, especially the housekeeper, were a delight. Her spice even added a bit of the humor factor as the main characters worked out their struggles.
But as the book wound to a close, about 140 pages from the end, I found myself guilty of skimming. The plot seemed a bit slow, but I also wasn’t brought into the “middle” of the story. I know I refer to that a lot in my book reviews, but if I’m not feeling the characters emotions and struggles, I must admit to losing interest.
The book started out strong, but did end a bit weak for me personally. I know from glancing at Amazon that others have loved this book, so take this review with a grain of salt and thanks for taking time to read my personal opinion.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers for my copy to review.
May 19, 2015
I thought this was a cute book. Our Heroine has been through so much but she is so sweet. I love that she hasn't become bitter but truly wants to do good wherever she can. Our Hero needs some major work, he is so arrogant at first. It is fun to see his heart soften and watch him become a better man because of the love of a women. :) SIGH! There were places it was slow but all in all I thought it was a cute super clean read. There was a little preaching involved but not over the top.
November 23, 2016
3.5 out of 5 stars
November 23, 2022
Although sweet, the cover has nothing really to with the story other than the fact that it's winter time and really cold.
The opening lines of the story are interesting kick off to this adventure. I could be jaded and say some things just don't add up or characters' characteristics that were annoying, but I was just taking it for face value on a "sweet" read without overanalyzing.
Although this was the third in a series by Parr, these books had nothing to do with each other except taking place in New England states.
The opening lines of the story are interesting kick off to this adventure. I could be jaded and say some things just don't add up or characters' characteristics that were annoying, but I was just taking it for face value on a "sweet" read without overanalyzing.
Although this was the third in a series by Parr, these books had nothing to do with each other except taking place in New England states.
December 24, 2024
At first I didn’t really want to read it but after a minute I was so stuck in the book, I stayed up late and woke with circles under my eyes. LoL.
July 10, 2011
First of all, I was very taken by the cover. Typically this kind of fiction has the same basic cover: a young woman, made up to look like she lived in a certain historical period, holding some sort of prop and smiling saucily at the camera, or if it is even older fiction- her head may be entirely chopped off! I liked this picture- it made me curious about what the book was about. (And I thought the model had a striking resemblance to Kate Hudson).
This was a very enjoyable read. It had a predictable plot- but not in a way that made it unpleasant to read. It felt fresh and different from other Christian novels I have read recently. The author made Annabelle strong- without coming off as arrogant or stubborn. It was very nice to read a book that had no "secret agenda" about how women don't need anyone to save them. Annabelle was strong, wise, and independent without lessening the male characters.
I found the plot to be paced well- and I couldn't put it down!
On a side note- the last book from the author that I read, "Love's First Bloom" I did not enjoy at all. I am very pleased to say that this book has completely changed my mind about the author and I will be coming back for more!
You can find out more about the author, Delia Parr, here.
I received this book for free for review from Bethany House. I do not guarantee a positive review, however, I do promise an honest one.
This was a very enjoyable read. It had a predictable plot- but not in a way that made it unpleasant to read. It felt fresh and different from other Christian novels I have read recently. The author made Annabelle strong- without coming off as arrogant or stubborn. It was very nice to read a book that had no "secret agenda" about how women don't need anyone to save them. Annabelle was strong, wise, and independent without lessening the male characters.
I found the plot to be paced well- and I couldn't put it down!
On a side note- the last book from the author that I read, "Love's First Bloom" I did not enjoy at all. I am very pleased to say that this book has completely changed my mind about the author and I will be coming back for more!
You can find out more about the author, Delia Parr, here.
I received this book for free for review from Bethany House. I do not guarantee a positive review, however, I do promise an honest one.
April 23, 2015
A clean romance that brings one man out of his shell and gives a kind woman a second chance at love after divorce. Sweet in the telling.
December 11, 2017
It was an era in which women had few rights and even less say in their own lives. Annabelle was cast aside by one husband, and then forced to wed again after her stagecocach was ambushed by robbers who handcuffed her to the only other passenger, a man of questionable reputation. Though wealthy, Harrison’s lifestyle compels the authorities to force a marriage to save Annabelle’s reputation. But unbeknownst to all, her reputation is already ruined because of her previous secret divorce. Assured by Harrison the sham marriage would be be dissolved as soon as they arrived back home and he consults his lawyers, Annabelle is relieved. But things don’t quite work out that simply. This interesting tale is not a typical romance, but illustrates how much women were controlled by men, both by those in power and by those who claimed they were only protecting the women they loved.
February 26, 2018
I had a really hard time getting into this book. I found the characters difficult to identify with and connect to, so I had trouble understanding their motivations (or lack thereof). I also found the ending very unsatisfying.
January 6, 2020
The first half of the book had me so excited since this was an easy read. Then I got to second half and I couldn't help but to scream at the author and Annabelle one of the characters. I felt the book could have ended at page 250 or so leaving me in want for more.
But no, it dragged for an extra 147 pages ....
On a whole, it was a good read.
But no, it dragged for an extra 147 pages ....
On a whole, it was a good read.
April 5, 2020
great story
The book graves me from the beginning, kept my interest and I was so tempted to look ahead even though I knew the characters would get together in the end I just couldn't wait. Wonderful build up in the story, steady progression in each chapter which keep me wanting more.
The book graves me from the beginning, kept my interest and I was so tempted to look ahead even though I knew the characters would get together in the end I just couldn't wait. Wonderful build up in the story, steady progression in each chapter which keep me wanting more.
April 30, 2018
Charming period read. I enjoyed the atmosphere & the plot. I would have enjoyed the characters digging a little deeper or expressing themselves a bit more so I could better know them, but ah well. The spiritual moments felt a tad preachy, but I usually skim over those anyway.
February 14, 2024
This book reminded me a little bit of Love Comes Softly. But to be honest I am not sure I entirely enjoyed this book. It was so full of tension and discomfort. No humor at all and no joy until the very end. Had a hopeful ending but I was cringing the whole time I listened to it
November 5, 2017
I loved this book! I really like historical fiction, so the storyline appealed to me. I really liked the story started off with action and ended the same way, all the while allowing room for the characters to grow and develop.
January 28, 2018
I ended up liking the book a little more at the end, but I found the story fairly predictable. I liked the bit of mystery surrounding the main character.
November 7, 2018
A nice clean romance.
November 16, 2018
Very intriguing read!
Had me interested from the very first page! Delia Parr has an incredible way of setting beautiful stages for fascinating characters!
Had me interested from the very first page! Delia Parr has an incredible way of setting beautiful stages for fascinating characters!
August 8, 2019
It was fun to read how the two main characters finally realized they were meant for each other.
March 7, 2020
I enjoyed the banter between the primary and secondary characters in the story. It was a clean romance.
April 30, 2020
Entertaining, good historical research, likeable characters. I reccomend it.
November 23, 2021
NOT believable as historical fiction. Okay ending.
August 21, 2013
Annabelle Tyler, scarred from a divorce not her choosing, finds herself being forced to marry a man because of the dubious circumstances that well meaning people find both she and a man by the name of Harrison Graymoor in. He says that he will procure an annulment immediately, but finds that that is harder to do than he expects. Especially when the woman he was forced to marry turns out to be most becoming...
I am familiar with Delia Parr and got exactly what I expected from Hidden Affections. No surprises popped up anywhere from within the book. Delia Parr usually has extremely predictable plots, though endearing, sweet-natured characters. I got no less from this book. I felt sorry for Annabelle and how situations seemed to keep forcing themselves upon her. Her only fault was perhaps being to naive about her first husband. I didn't like Harrison Graymoor at first. He was arrogant, conceited and selfish. But he changed gradually throughout the novel.
I enjoyed seeing how Annabelle remained genuine and selfless throughout the book, despite her one subterfuge. She seemed to be entirely too good for Harrison. I also liked the feisty almost 70 year old housekeeper. She was a lovely minor character, who remained a true friend to both Annabelle and Harrison throughout.
Delia Parr also did a very creditable job in showing how horrible divorce is. As the Bible says, "divorce is as violence". I could certainly see the sobering effects of it in Hidden Affections. Poor Annabelle had to be thrust into the position of divorce twice, though both times she was completely innocent of any wrongdoing.
I always respect how Parr allows her characters to get to know one another on a spiritual and emotional basis before they ever have a physical relationship. Her characters seem deeper because of that. It was a solid, well-written novel, as I thought it would be. Her characters were well-developed with flaws and strengths. I give it a three out of five stars because it was predictable to the point of boring.
To read more of my reviews, visit my blog at http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/....
I am familiar with Delia Parr and got exactly what I expected from Hidden Affections. No surprises popped up anywhere from within the book. Delia Parr usually has extremely predictable plots, though endearing, sweet-natured characters. I got no less from this book. I felt sorry for Annabelle and how situations seemed to keep forcing themselves upon her. Her only fault was perhaps being to naive about her first husband. I didn't like Harrison Graymoor at first. He was arrogant, conceited and selfish. But he changed gradually throughout the novel.
I enjoyed seeing how Annabelle remained genuine and selfless throughout the book, despite her one subterfuge. She seemed to be entirely too good for Harrison. I also liked the feisty almost 70 year old housekeeper. She was a lovely minor character, who remained a true friend to both Annabelle and Harrison throughout.
Delia Parr also did a very creditable job in showing how horrible divorce is. As the Bible says, "divorce is as violence". I could certainly see the sobering effects of it in Hidden Affections. Poor Annabelle had to be thrust into the position of divorce twice, though both times she was completely innocent of any wrongdoing.
I always respect how Parr allows her characters to get to know one another on a spiritual and emotional basis before they ever have a physical relationship. Her characters seem deeper because of that. It was a solid, well-written novel, as I thought it would be. Her characters were well-developed with flaws and strengths. I give it a three out of five stars because it was predictable to the point of boring.
To read more of my reviews, visit my blog at http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/....
June 21, 2011
“Annabelle Tyler may have hoped she would marry again someday, but she never dreamed she would be wearing handcuffs during the ceremony when she did.” Ah I love a good opening line to a novel and I would say that Delia Parr’s Hidden Affections delivers that attention grabber opening line pretty well. I also might add that the cover is quite lovely as the model looks a lot like Kate Hudson! Anyway, on to the book- Annabelle Tyler and Harrison Graymoor find themselves in a bit of a pickle. Because of a rather awkward situation and because proper society demanded it-the time is 1831- they are forced to marry. Since neither one is interested in marriage particularly to each other, most of the novel is figuring out how to “undo” the marriage.
Annabelle is looking to start over and 36 hours after leaving Hanover Pennsylvania, her starting over hasn’t been the fresh start she was hoping for. She meets Harrison Graymoor- a man whose reputation especially with the ladies, precedes him. What is not expected by either one is that they start discovering that the other is not as bad as they originally thought. Throw in a secret or two for both of them , a rival suitor and you have a rather nice romantic story. Harrison has a pretty rogue-ish reputation and I might have made his character just a tad more likeable and the built the romantic part between he and Annabelle just a tad more because when the end came, I felt they all of a sudden came together.
However all in all, it is a sweet romance with a fun opening scene for sure and I think the majority of Christian fiction romance aficionados will enjoy this book.
Disclosure- A free copy of this book was graciously provided for me by the publisher- Bethany House in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are mine.
Annabelle is looking to start over and 36 hours after leaving Hanover Pennsylvania, her starting over hasn’t been the fresh start she was hoping for. She meets Harrison Graymoor- a man whose reputation especially with the ladies, precedes him. What is not expected by either one is that they start discovering that the other is not as bad as they originally thought. Throw in a secret or two for both of them , a rival suitor and you have a rather nice romantic story. Harrison has a pretty rogue-ish reputation and I might have made his character just a tad more likeable and the built the romantic part between he and Annabelle just a tad more because when the end came, I felt they all of a sudden came together.
However all in all, it is a sweet romance with a fun opening scene for sure and I think the majority of Christian fiction romance aficionados will enjoy this book.
Disclosure- A free copy of this book was graciously provided for me by the publisher- Bethany House in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are mine.
July 5, 2011
After reading Hearts Awakening, Delia Parr was poised to be one of my new favorite writers. I was dismayed but not dissuaded by her scant three novels that piqued my interest, might I add I most certainly judge a book by its cover while ordering online. Quickly ordering the other two, as I had already read one of the three, I was more than excited to receive Hidden Affections a few days prior. It was my genre of choice, historical fiction, with a pair of lovers who brought together by unfortunate circumstances fail to realize, and struggle against, their strong feelings for one another. I do not pretend that this is a deeply intellectual read, nor did I expect it to be. However, this latest novel by Ms. Parr lacked some of the finesse of her other novel which I can quickly devoured. The characters fell flat for me, they lacked the originality I found in Hearts Awakening and the story seemed to fall into the same old plot lines I had seen before. Formulaic, if you will.
This novel also was heavily saturated with Christian references and bible verses. I am by no means opposed to a spiritual read, but only if it is sprinkled in. There is only so much I can take, a faith so unbroken by time can come across as unbelievable if its strength is unwavering. Even those who have such a strong connection with God find themselves facing doubt every now and again. Also, the main character Annabelle was too... dare I say it, good? I like flaws, they make the story interesting. She had none, or at least none that were noteworthy. Even her scandalous past was blamed upon another. Annabelle was young, gorgeous and inherently goodhearted.
Would I recommend it? I suppose. But I'm disappointed Ms. Parr, I know you could do better. And I am sorely upset I splurged and bought this full priced, I have found much better bargain books.
This novel also was heavily saturated with Christian references and bible verses. I am by no means opposed to a spiritual read, but only if it is sprinkled in. There is only so much I can take, a faith so unbroken by time can come across as unbelievable if its strength is unwavering. Even those who have such a strong connection with God find themselves facing doubt every now and again. Also, the main character Annabelle was too... dare I say it, good? I like flaws, they make the story interesting. She had none, or at least none that were noteworthy. Even her scandalous past was blamed upon another. Annabelle was young, gorgeous and inherently goodhearted.
Would I recommend it? I suppose. But I'm disappointed Ms. Parr, I know you could do better. And I am sorely upset I splurged and bought this full priced, I have found much better bargain books.
September 6, 2016
Annabelle Tyler has no intention of letting anyone, much less a man, close to her. Unfortunately, Annabelle doesn't realize that God is working on her heart and getting Annabelle to see that some risks are worth taking. Betrayed and swindled by her first husband and left with the nasty scars of divorce, Annabelle has no hope for a future husband that would want her & love her. However along comes Harrison Graymor, Philadelphia's most eligible bachelor & Annabelle has found herself married to him, but not by choice. Ok, you're just going to have to read the book to find out why!
Trusting God is not one of Annabelle's strong suits. However as Annabelle discovers that God may be the only one that she can trust at this moment in her life. As the story proceeds, Annabelle learns that God has sent certain people into her life at a specific time for a specific reason. The only way that Annabelle can see her freedom again, is to trust someone who can help her to heal the wounds in her heart. Annabelle is a bit of a independent woman & she doesn't intend for any man, including Harrison Graymoor, to decide her future for her.
Harrison has a past of his own and being the most eligible bachelor in Philadelphia, one would think that he would have many woman to choose from. However, Harrison has also felt the sting of rejection, & betrayal and he finds it difficult to believe that Love is real & that the God that Annabelle speaks about even exists. However as the story progresses, Harrison is not only denying his feelings for Annabelle, but he is also resisting God's still small voice that is calling to him.
http://books.coffeetalkgirl.com/2011/...
Trusting God is not one of Annabelle's strong suits. However as Annabelle discovers that God may be the only one that she can trust at this moment in her life. As the story proceeds, Annabelle learns that God has sent certain people into her life at a specific time for a specific reason. The only way that Annabelle can see her freedom again, is to trust someone who can help her to heal the wounds in her heart. Annabelle is a bit of a independent woman & she doesn't intend for any man, including Harrison Graymoor, to decide her future for her.
Harrison has a past of his own and being the most eligible bachelor in Philadelphia, one would think that he would have many woman to choose from. However, Harrison has also felt the sting of rejection, & betrayal and he finds it difficult to believe that Love is real & that the God that Annabelle speaks about even exists. However as the story progresses, Harrison is not only denying his feelings for Annabelle, but he is also resisting God's still small voice that is calling to him.
http://books.coffeetalkgirl.com/2011/...
August 26, 2011
3.5 stars
Period films are some of my absolute favorite things to watch because they bring back a time gone by when life seemed a bit more slower and a lot more romantic. It's the same for historical fiction, everything just seemed more romantic. Realistically speaking I know that 200, 100 years, even 50 years ago life was a lot more complicated and I *probably* couldn't have survived 5 days in the 1800s without running water or electricity but the mystique of things unknown still draws me to books like this one. Delia Parr certainly makes 1830s Pennsylvania come alive. It probably helps that I live right next door to a grist mill and live in a town that celebrates "Pioneer Days" every fall but for those who do not you won't find it a problem experiencing life in on a Philadelphia estate. To top it off the characters are amazing. I'm always a fan of the reluctant rogue who gets "tamed" by love and Harrison Graymoor definitely fits the bill. Annabelle Taylor,a divorcee who has to once again deal with a marriage that seemingly has no chance of going beyond the "shotgun" wedding certainly has an impressive spirit. That said the basis for their marriage was a bit hard to believe. Why two strangers would demand that Annabelle marry Harrison, especially since neither was a relation to Annabelle, was beyond me. However after I got past that, which took place in the first chapter, the story definitely got better. I still feel like Ms. Parr's earlier book, Hearts Awakening was her best but this is definitely an improvement over Love's First Bloom.
*I received my complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for posting my honest opinion of the book*
Period films are some of my absolute favorite things to watch because they bring back a time gone by when life seemed a bit more slower and a lot more romantic. It's the same for historical fiction, everything just seemed more romantic. Realistically speaking I know that 200, 100 years, even 50 years ago life was a lot more complicated and I *probably* couldn't have survived 5 days in the 1800s without running water or electricity but the mystique of things unknown still draws me to books like this one. Delia Parr certainly makes 1830s Pennsylvania come alive. It probably helps that I live right next door to a grist mill and live in a town that celebrates "Pioneer Days" every fall but for those who do not you won't find it a problem experiencing life in on a Philadelphia estate. To top it off the characters are amazing. I'm always a fan of the reluctant rogue who gets "tamed" by love and Harrison Graymoor definitely fits the bill. Annabelle Taylor,a divorcee who has to once again deal with a marriage that seemingly has no chance of going beyond the "shotgun" wedding certainly has an impressive spirit. That said the basis for their marriage was a bit hard to believe. Why two strangers would demand that Annabelle marry Harrison, especially since neither was a relation to Annabelle, was beyond me. However after I got past that, which took place in the first chapter, the story definitely got better. I still feel like Ms. Parr's earlier book, Hearts Awakening was her best but this is definitely an improvement over Love's First Bloom.
*I received my complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for posting my honest opinion of the book*
August 9, 2011
Annabelle Tyler has had it rough the last several years. Her mother died after being very sick for a long while, her father passed away when she was young and her husband divorces her after only a week of marriage. All she wants is a fresh start, a time to regroup and make a better life for herself. However, her dreams of a fresh start are shattered when her life and hands are handcuffed with Harrison Graymoor.
At gun point they are forced to marry. Neither one is interested in marriage and quickly decide to get an annulment as quickly as possible.
Harrison is a bachelor, one sworn never to marry. He is the ‘catch of society’ and likes it that way. He is angry and resentful when Annabelle comes into life and set out to put her away as quickly as possible.
As the book says on the back: A Tale of an unlikely couple trying desperately not to fall in love.
My Rating: ****
My Thoughts:
The story was sweet and creative. The characters were fairly well-developed. However, there were several parts where the writing jerked me out of the story. Hence the reason that I’m only giving the book 4 stars instead of 5. I also felt that the character of Harrison could have been written a little more strongly. Annabelle’s personification was done very well and I loved her. Harrison was a little more distant from the reader and it seemed that the writer just told things that happened to him rather than showing it.
However, I would read this book again and I did turn the last page with a smile on my face. Why not find out for yourself?
Many thanks to Bethany House Publishers for sending me this book to review.
At gun point they are forced to marry. Neither one is interested in marriage and quickly decide to get an annulment as quickly as possible.
Harrison is a bachelor, one sworn never to marry. He is the ‘catch of society’ and likes it that way. He is angry and resentful when Annabelle comes into life and set out to put her away as quickly as possible.
As the book says on the back: A Tale of an unlikely couple trying desperately not to fall in love.
My Rating: ****
My Thoughts:
The story was sweet and creative. The characters were fairly well-developed. However, there were several parts where the writing jerked me out of the story. Hence the reason that I’m only giving the book 4 stars instead of 5. I also felt that the character of Harrison could have been written a little more strongly. Annabelle’s personification was done very well and I loved her. Harrison was a little more distant from the reader and it seemed that the writer just told things that happened to him rather than showing it.
However, I would read this book again and I did turn the last page with a smile on my face. Why not find out for yourself?
Many thanks to Bethany House Publishers for sending me this book to review.
June 20, 2011
Will their "Hidden Affections" be revealed in time to keep them together?
From being married at gunpoint in handcuffs, to being forced into staying in a high society, spotlight marriage, Annabelle and Harrison Graymoor weave a touching tale on how they came together with love and faith.
They both had previously suffered tremendous losses in their lives, but Annabelle holds true to her faith as Harrison struggles immensely with his til the bitter end. Will the shadows of their pasts continue to haunt them? Will their tender feelings for one another ever be revealed? Come on their journey as they try to deny their growing attachemnt to each other and eventually must give in to their basic needs of hope, faith, and love.
This is a very touching and inspirational story. I thoroughly enjoyed Annabelle as a gentle character but with a little spunk and ingenuity thrown in. Delia Parr writes her as such a giving and faithful living soul too, and that really comes through. The story itself is written very smoothly and you really want to turn that page to see where it leads you next. And last, but certainly not least, I loved the cover on this book. I know you aren't supposed to judge a book by it's cover, but I really felt drawn to this one.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a touching and inspirational romance!
This book was kindly provided to me by Bethany House Publishers for my honest review.
From being married at gunpoint in handcuffs, to being forced into staying in a high society, spotlight marriage, Annabelle and Harrison Graymoor weave a touching tale on how they came together with love and faith.
They both had previously suffered tremendous losses in their lives, but Annabelle holds true to her faith as Harrison struggles immensely with his til the bitter end. Will the shadows of their pasts continue to haunt them? Will their tender feelings for one another ever be revealed? Come on their journey as they try to deny their growing attachemnt to each other and eventually must give in to their basic needs of hope, faith, and love.
This is a very touching and inspirational story. I thoroughly enjoyed Annabelle as a gentle character but with a little spunk and ingenuity thrown in. Delia Parr writes her as such a giving and faithful living soul too, and that really comes through. The story itself is written very smoothly and you really want to turn that page to see where it leads you next. And last, but certainly not least, I loved the cover on this book. I know you aren't supposed to judge a book by it's cover, but I really felt drawn to this one.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a touching and inspirational romance!
This book was kindly provided to me by Bethany House Publishers for my honest review.
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