Carrie Fancett Pagels

I loved this delightful story set on Mackinac Island and the Round Island Lighthouse.
This charming story had two heros and two heroines whose backgrounds intertwined in sometimes mysterious ways. Susan and Valerie had hidden pasts. It was intriguing to see how they discovered their origins.
I will always love the setting because I once took a trip to the Island. The author describes Mackinac so beautifully and jogged my memories. It makes me want to go back.
Very helpful was a glossary of people in the front. I recognized many characters from previous books. One, Jack Welling, was very humorous as a youth who was training to compete in the Olympics. Ms. Pagels captured three year old Hetty adorably. The characters had depth, were realistic and lived out their faith authentically.
This book kept me turning pages wondering if the lost would be found and if the romances would play out favorably. I am looking forward to more books by this author set in one of my favorite places.
*I received an ebook of this title from the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*… (altro)

Needing a great summer read? Grab a copy of this new contemporary women's fiction novel by Carrie Fancett Pagels! She shares a heart-tugging, soul-searching story about three families who've long called beautiful Mackinac Island their home. Rachel Dunmara's visits to Lilac Cottage and Mackinac Island have provided her comfort and safe haven, but her latest trip may not provide the sanctuary that she had hoped. Secrets are revealed, relationships are explored, and there are hurtful surprises that appear impossible to overcome. I was fully engaged with the twists, turns, and fascinating characters and I loved the inspiring messages of faith and redemption that are woven into the mysterious plot. Lilac Cottage is a winner!

I received an advanced reader copy from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.… (altro)

Present day on Mackinac Island, in an area of exclusive mansion style homes, wealthy families. When Rachel's Gram dies, her mother takes everything away from her. This is in some ways a Cinderella story but with her own mother instead of a stepmother. Lots of detail, and a murder mystery. You thoroughly get to know Rachel and Jack. Intricate story, long emotional damage and healing. Holds your attention for sure. Christian beliefs.

I received this book free from the author, publisher and CelebrateLit book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

#LilacCottage #CarrieFancettPagels #BooksYouCanFeelGoodAbout #ChristianHistoricalFiction #FiveStarNovel #CelebrateLit… (altro)

I have to start my review by saying how gorgeous the cover is. It definitely will grab readers attention. Once they start the book they will see how gifted the author is. Her ability to guide readers into the story with a feeling of being a part of it is something I admire. I like that the story includes real life issues like the recent virus and how the characters are all new Christians. Something the author wrote really woke me up. New Christians are on fire for God but sometimes those who have been a Christian for awhile seem to be lackluster at times. I want to get that fire again and be excited every day because Jesus is with me.

Now let’s move on to the characters. There were quite a few of them in the story so at times I was a little lost. I quickly caught on who everyone was and the story flowed easily for me. Rachel has found herself homeless and without a job. She needs to find a solution fast. I loved how we travel to Mackinac Island . The beautiful surroundings are peaceful and I’m so glad she decided to stay at a place that is special to her.

The author highlights three families in the book and I loved that we discovered secrets, friendships that needed to be mended and family that held each other together as they walked through difficult issues. I could mention more about the different characters but I think I want readers to get acquainted with them as they unravel the story that brings healing, hope and faith to our characters.

I love the twists in the story and unexpected surprises that kept me glued to the book. I was shocked at one particular secret that comes out. It was never something I picked up on in the story. What a oh my moment this was, I loved how faith was at the center of the story and there is a good illustration of second chances and forgiveness.

“Forgiveness wasn’t for the person you forgave. It was for yourself. To let it go. To get right with God.”

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