Karen R. (flwergirl) -
A beautiful Mackinac Island, Michigan setting in June 1895, brings together a young woman and man posing as their opposites in society. Maude believes she must prove her worth and ability to run an inn to convince her father. Ben just wants a good story, so he can hopefully advance in his career.
There was a lot of deception and misunderstanding between the main characters, preventing them from really getting to know each other. Each one wrestles with their conscience, and has to decide if they will trust in God for their future, learning to look to Him for guidance, to discern His will, instead of holding tightly to possessions or misguided ambitions. The theme of forgiveness and looking to God to meet our needs was illustrated well in the story.
I like how this author used real landmarks and places in the story, researching the area, and painting a picture of what island life was like in the summer when wealthy tourists came to stay on the island. It sounded like a lovely place to vacation, biking and walking everywhere. The use of real people and their work, like Mark Twain and his book The Prince and the Pauper, added authenticity; the plot was even a bit of a take on this classic.The index had some interesting facts about the time and locale.
I had a hard time connecting to the characters in the first half, as the story seemed to jump around a lot. It came together nicely later on though. It was fun to see the nod to some of the author's characters from other stories in a few spots.
Recommend for readers who enjoy historical Christian romances.
(An e-book was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)
There was a lot of deception and misunderstanding between the main characters, preventing them from really getting to know each other. Each one wrestles with their conscience, and has to decide if they will trust in God for their future, learning to look to Him for guidance, to discern His will, instead of holding tightly to possessions or misguided ambitions. The theme of forgiveness and looking to God to meet our needs was illustrated well in the story.
I like how this author used real landmarks and places in the story, researching the area, and painting a picture of what island life was like in the summer when wealthy tourists came to stay on the island. It sounded like a lovely place to vacation, biking and walking everywhere. The use of real people and their work, like Mark Twain and his book The Prince and the Pauper, added authenticity; the plot was even a bit of a take on this classic.The index had some interesting facts about the time and locale.
I had a hard time connecting to the characters in the first half, as the story seemed to jump around a lot. It came together nicely later on though. It was fun to see the nod to some of the author's characters from other stories in a few spots.
Recommend for readers who enjoy historical Christian romances.
(An e-book was provided by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.)
Kay M. (maydayzee) reviewed My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island: Maude?s Mooring on + 750 more book reviews
This is an all-around wonderful novel set in a special place and time, which I really enjoyed reading. The complex storyline kept me guessing and looking forward to what would happen next. A great cast of characters provide color and entertainment. My favorite character is Ada, who brings to mind Emma Hart of Barbara Taylor Bradford's A Woman of Substance. I would love to see Carrie Fancett Pagles write Ada's story. One aspect of Pagels' book that I particularly find satisfying is the spiritual themes woven into the story, which add great depth and purpose. I highly recommend My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island: Maude's Mooring to everyone who loves an excellent historical fiction book.
