Lisa NoratoRecensioni

Norato built suspense in each of the main characters. Not just an expected ending added to the spice.

Wanting to keep reading about their lives and how their faith played into it.

I found this book too dry for me and ended up skimming throughout the book.

Title: Prize of My Heart
Author: Lisa Norato
Pages: 299
Year: 2012
Publisher: Bethany House
The year is 1815 and the war with Great Britain has recently ended. Now Brogan Talvis, former privateer for the United States Navy, is free to search for his son. His wife told him the day before he left port to fight in the war that she had sent their 2-year-old son away someplace where Brogan would never find him. Brogan is incensed, but can do nothing at the time. As soon as the war was over, he began his search and stumbled across a clue. He followed that up and discovered his son, alive and well, living with a kind family. His plan is to ingratiate himself with this family and then steal his son away. He has no idea why they would accept his son and raise him as their own and thinks they might have a hidden purpose for doing so. He doesn’t count on his son’s love for the daughter of the family as if she were his own mother and that he himself falls in love with her. At the end of his rope, will he return to the God of his youth or will he continue to think he isn’t worthy in God’s eyes due to the circumstances of his birth and upbringing?
Lorena Huntley has dedicated herself to home and family. She loves the small shipping town where she lives and is knowledgeable of her father’s shipping company. She enjoys baking and raising her 5-year-old brother. She meets Captain Brogan Talvis and soon is enamored of him. She sometimes finds it strange the kindness he extends to her young brother, but begins to see Brogan as a loving, compassionate and kind man. Will she be able to tell him her secret about her brother? No one else knows, except her father, and maybe things should stay that way. She tries her best to follow God’s will, but sometimes that is risky.
This is a gentle love story with a wonderful ending that will put a smile on readers’ faces. The themes of forgiveness, sacrificial love, honor, loyalty and more are prevalent throughout the story. This is a story that flows easily from page to page. The characters are likeable and the love story well done. I look forward to reading more novels from this author.
My rating is 4 stars.
Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility. Other reviews can be read at http://seekingwithallyurheart.blogspot.com/. Also follow me on Twitter @lcjohnson1988, FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/lisa.johnson.75457

Looking for a swashbuckling tale that combines romance, mystery and adventure? Then look to Prize of My Heart by Lisa Norato. Set on land and sea in the early 1800s, this historical romance features a dashing hero and a sweet, but determined, heroine striving to overcome the past and make a way for a better future.

Privateer Captain Brogan Talvis has never really had a family. An orphan, his deceased wife gave up their son while he was at sea. Determined to reclaim his child, Brogan finds Ben, now Drew, is living with a loving family and attached to the very lovely, Lorena. Brogan’s plan to retake his son is thwarted by the growing feelings he has for Lorena.

Although a quick read, Prize of My Heart delivers a lot within its pages. The plot twists and turns with one surprise after another. The characters quickly endear themselves to the reader. And if you are looking for a hunky hero, Brogan Talvis is your man! I found the New England setting of the early 1800s interesting as well. Norato does a great job in exploring the themes of family and father and sons — earthly and heavenly.

All in all, Prize of My Heart is a good choice for those who like a fast-paced historical romance with a faith message.

Recommended.

Audience — older teens and adults.

Captain Brogan Talvis is on a quest to reunite with his son who was secreted away by his unfaithful, late wife. His discovery of the boy's location leads him to the home of Lorena Huntley who cares for the child as her own. In lieu of an immediate kidnapping, Brogan meets with the family under other pretenses and finds himself drawn to Lorena, who has plenty of secrets of her own. As the time to take his son nears, Lorena is suddenly in danger and Brogan must decide whether to rescue Lorena or take his son.

I liked – but didn't love – reading Prize of My Heart by Lisa Norato. I thought the beginning was exceptionally good and liked that the story delivered both adventure and romance. Throughout the story, there was a strong emphasis placed on speaking the truth and knowing a person's background. Unfortunately, I felt that a certain twist later in the story undermined this theme as a prominent character was left not knowing the truth. I can't say more without spoiling things, but it did not sit well with the rest of the story or with me as a reader. Aside from that, Prize of My Heart is an enjoyable read. I recommend it to fans of historical romance who are looking for a little adventure in the story, but I do encourage renting it from the library before buying.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this free advanced reader copy from the publisher via LibraryThing . I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Although this book started out in a seemingly predictable manner as far as eventual plot line, the author did a great job at creating unique characters who had compelling problems to overcome. Overall a good read.½

I received the book, "Prize of My Heart", through Bethany House Publishers in exchange for a review. i will have to say that the surprise factor was not just a one time thing in Lisa Norato's book. This story is about two people with secrets they are willing to fight to keep hidden, secrets that when made known turns everything upside down for one and into everything wished for the other. All due to the presence of a small boy who's lost his family. There is one mystery after another that is reveiled throughout this book making it a fulfilling story from beginning to end. i really enjoyed it.½

Sometimes you are in he mood for a light hearted quick read! I was taking a business trip and dropped this book in my bag. What a lovely story. It kept my interest and gVe me a few chuckles along the way. Thank you for sharing your book.

Captain Brogan Talvis has spent two years searching for the child his now-deceased wife carelessly gave away while he was at war. Once he finds the boy, however, his plans begin to unravel. Brogan never expected to fall for Lorena, the boy's mother-figure, much less have to use his nautical prowess to rescue her from a once-trusted friend. When secrets from all sides are brought to light, will Lorena and Brogan be able to give up their own life plans for the Lord's?

Norato has woven an adventurous tale of romance and redemption on the high seas that is sure to delight any historical fiction fan. The characters and plot lines were so well written, I felt as though I were watching a movie! Definitely a great weekend read!

Prize of My Heart is the story of an American ship captain in the early 1800's and his search for the son his wife gave away a number of years ago. Very interesting descriptions of shipbuilding and life on a ship are woven throughout the story. The faith of the characters was incorporated well into the storyline. Having said that, I found this book very hard to get into. The beginning of the book felt like it could do with some more editing as some of the story felt like it dragged and became a bit repetitive. The last third of book did grab my attention. The plot moved along at a good pace and I wanted to continue reading to see what would happen.½

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Review:

This is the first book I have read by Lisa Norato. I checked her website and saw that she had a couple of others out, so I will likely be reading them in the future. When I first read this blurb, I was intrigued. A pirate *coughs* I mean privateer … a young lasy taking care of child known as her brother, though he is not … said privateer searching for his long lost son … all tied in as a Christian historical romance. Yeah, I wanted to read it after that. So I found myself returning to my roots and enjoying yet another Christian romance book.

For those of you who don’t know, my mother gave me many Grace Livingston Hill books to try and encourage my reading, but hopefully steer me away from the … errr …. Smuttier variety I preferred. At that time it was strictly Johanna Lindsey. And she was right. I was too young to be reading those books, but I did anyway. And here I am, still loving the smut. But … she did instill in me a love of Christian romance and I do occasionally return to them from time to time. That said, let’s get back to the book.

So Brogan is a former privateer – not pirate. Although the distinction between the two for many was a thin line barely there. For me, hey ~ I love me a pirate! Brogan always wanted to captain his own ship. A difficult dream to obtain considering his harsh beginning in life. But he worked extremely hard and it finally happened. Prior to his captain position beginning, he married and had a son. But his wife was rather … ambitious ~ I guess is a good word for it. Though she had some other things going on as well. So while Brogan was away on his ship, she got rid of their son and told Brogan he would never find him. Soon after she perished in a fire and he never found out his son’s whereabouts. His purpose in life then became a focus of locating his son.

Enter Lorena. Brogan has found his son and he is living in the home of the Huntley’s as Drew. Lorena is Drew’s sister and has charge of him much of the time. Her meeting with the Captain does not begin on the right foot, but eventually the two become friends and Brogan’s world is knocked upside-down. He struggles with carrying out his plan to take his son back and the strong connection he feels with Lorena. Lorena too shares strong feelings towards Brogan. Eventually the catalyst occurs when Brogan admits who he truly is and not only one secret is revealed, an entire web of lies and deceit is unraveled. But will Brogan and Lorena be able to more forward from the devastating truth or will it destroy their delicate new-found affection?

What I really enjoyed in this story was the growth of all characters involved. Brogan starts out as a father desperate to get his son back. He hatches a plan to essentially kidnap his son away from the Huntley’s, but soon discovers a fondness for all of the Huntley’s. And when Brogan has to rescue Lorena, he realizes that fondness may be a bit more which pretty much throws a hitch in his plan. But this is not the only challenge Brogan will have to overcome, though I don’t feel I should reveal any more than I have. Lorena, too, has an epiphany of sorts when she realizes that someone she trusted was not as honorable as she had believed. She sort of blindly trust everyone and has a very good heart. But she also realizes that she should have understood signs that had always been present. But because of her nature to see the best in people, she denied existence of the negative qualities. The reader even sees growth in Drew and Mr. Huntley. Growth of character is one component I look for in a well written book.

The story was enjoyable and a pleasure to read. While lacking the physical intimacy that I generally read, I found that this story did not need such an enhancement. Prize of My Heart is beautifully written as it is and is easily a story of faith, perseverance, and inspiration. What one man holds as his greatest treasure ultimately leads him to the greatest treasure of all … the prize of his heart. I very much enjoy how Ms. Norato wraps the book up wonderfully with a sweet epilogue. I look forward to reading more of her stories in the future.

(ARC paperback won from LibraryThing; provided by author)

Prize of my Heart is about a Captain Brogan, who is in search of his son, whom had been abandoned by his deceased wife. In his pursuit he crosses paths with Lorena, who is now the guardian of the boy. Lorena keeps a dark secret, but still finds herself falling in love with the captain. Captain Brogan develops a plan to get his son back, but due to other circumstances, he must choose: the women or the boy.

The book is full of adventure, kidnapping, romance, and some secrets. I figured out the twist in the story, but I did not mind. The description the author used when talking about the ships made you feel like you were there on it. It was be delightful read for those who love the historical romance.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from LibraryThing Early Reviewer program in exchange for my honest opinion.

**Thank you to Bethany House publishing and author Lisa Norato for providing me with the opportunity to be an early reviewer**

AUTHOR: LISA NORATO is an Inspirational fiction author.

SETTING: Year 1815, 19th century, Massachusetts, With America having fought gallantly against English rule many have turned to ship building and trading of goods..

CENTRAL FEMALE CHARACTERS: She comes from a well to do family. Her father is a shipmaker. She is the mother "figure" to little Drew, a boy taken into the home as a toddler. Drew loves her with all of his heart and holds on to the stories that she recites from the Bible, particularly David and Goliath.
CENTRAL MALE CHARACTER: He is to commandeer one of the greatest American ships ever built. His past as a ship's captain and privateer does not prevent him from searching the one son that was lost to him. Having been given a poor beginning and his relentless search for his son, he doubts about God in his life.

FAVORITE PART:
Rescue from the "Lady Julia" ship. Numerous mysteries. Lesson about "forgiveness"

LEAST FAVORITE PART:
I felt that the first third of the book was too descriptive. Although the author was providing a proper setting for the story, there should have been more dialogue and interaction between the characters.

YOU WILL LIKE THIS BOOK IF YOU LIKE: Inspirational fiction, 19th century, Shipping industry in early American, Mystery, Love of a man for his son.

WHY (4) STARS
Many parts of the book were spent on setting the stage. HOWEVER, this book will have you sizing up your relationship with God. I was in complete blubbering tears through the last third or fourth of this book. It is an encouraging book that reminds us of how important it is to stay in God's Word.

Prize of My Heart was deeper and most touching than I expected. I have always been a softy when it comes to stories about orphans and people finding families where they feel like they truly belong. This story was emotionally engaging on so many levels. The romance was sweet, but tender and not at all fluffy. The heroine was a strong woman who loved deeply. She won me over and I could see how she softened Brogan's heart. I also felt crushed when he felt crushed. At the same time, I totally saw what she was trying to help him see, and thankfully, he listened and took it to heart. He was still hurt but saw beyond his pain. I loved that. I can't stand it when people declare to love people deeply, but then in their hurt they hurt the person they love more than they show that they love them. This story didn't do that, so it moved my heart. The ending was wonderful, too. The author's writing was beautiful and touching. This story shed light on forgiveness and what it truly means to let go of the past. It also shows how God wants to free us from hurt and resentment so we can enjoy His will and His plan for our lives. What an encouraging story! Loved it! It's making my favorites list for 2012.

"Prize of My Heart" by Lisa Norato was an enjoyable story. I was glad to see that it was not too heavy handed with the religion and Christianity, but a good mix between that and the historical fiction. (I've read several books in the past that were either too much religion or not enough for a book to be labeled Christian fiction, but that was not the case here). My only complaint would be that this book was a bit short.

PRIZE OF MY HEART by Lisa Norato is a wonderful inspirational historical romance set in 1815 Massachusetts. This is the story of Lorena Huntley, a shipbuilder's daughter,and Captain Brogan Talvis,whose wife abandoned his son with someone and will not tell Talvis, then dies.With high seas adventure,divided loyalties.secrets,romance,deceit,and love. "Prize of My Heart" is am emotional love story of the love of one's child,determination to find said son,secrets revealed,truths you will not see coming and a love that can survive all obstacles. A true trial of faith,as Talvis,finds long hidden truths,and Lorena hides a dark truth. "Prize of My Heart" has not only mystery,and suspense as you follow Talvis and Lorena on their journey of peril and love. A Great read! Received for an honest review from Library Thing and the publisher. Details can be found at Bethany House Publishers,the author's website and My Book Addiction and More.



RATING: 4

HEAT RATING: SWEET

REVIEWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction and More

I enjoyed this book very much. Characters were not shallow and it was not too preachy as some Christian fiction can be. For me, there was just enough suspense, romance, and faith put together for a great read. It takes place in 1815 Massachusetts. Follows a sailor on his quest to find his son and the family who cares for him. Lovely twist at the end that I suspected early in the book. I highly recommend this one if you enjoy historical Christian fiction.

I enjoyed Prize of My Heart. I love historical fiction and thought this would be similar. The focus of the book is the romance with a little suspense – and just set in a different time period. For those searching for a book that is big on the “historical” aspect, I didn’t find that in this book. It was your basic romance in another setting. The only Captain Tavis’ is searching for the son his wife abandoned while he was at sea. He finally finds his son and begins to fall in love with his guardian. There is a conflict of emotions as he faces feelings of wanting to abduct his son and falling in love with his guardian.

An enjoyable Christian romance with a touch of mystery to bring our two romantic prospects together. I found the story to be a bit short and would have liked more interaction, but it was a quick read and quite lovely.

Lisa Norato is a welcome addition to Christian Fiction. Her novel Prize of My Heart takes place in the historical setting of the 1800s and brings to life elements of pride, honor, duty, and love as they were commonly expressed in this time period. While it wasn't the most suspensful or romantic writing that I have ever read, it was pleasant and entertaining as she developed her characters. Fans of sea faring novels will appreciate the high seas adventures and the story's conclusion will warm any reader's heart.½

Lisa Norato's debut novel brings a new voice to Christian fiction. While parts of the plot are predictable, the historical background is more unique. Set after the War of 1812, Captain Talvis is searching for the son his late wife gave away while he was at sea. In the process he meets Lorena Huntley. He soon faces the conflict between his feelings for her (and his desire to protect her) and his plans of abducting his son. While the ending is never really in doubt, the twists in plot and character development make this a worthwhile read.½

This story is about a man searching for his son. His late wife took his son with her and dropped him off at the Huntleys where they raised him with love. Captain Tavis eventually learns where his son is living and plans to reclaim him. Just when you think the story is winding down and have everything figured out there are lots of twists in the book. This alone is enough to keep you reading to the last page.

In the realm of Christian romance, this book by Lisa Norato is one of the better ones I've read. The romance portion itself is predictable, withing the first few pages, but the plot is not. Just as you think you've got it figured out, something changes and the action picks up. Norato has written a fine piece of historical fiction also. I can tell it's either been researched heavily or she is familiar with shipping history because she is from that area. I almost felt like I was on the ship from her descriptions, and I do not profess a knowledge of sailing at all! I enjoyed reading about a part of the country during a time in history that is not all that familiar to me. If you start reading this novel, don't think it's your average predictable romance - stick with it. You'll be pleasantly surprised and glad you did.

I'm glad I won this from Library Thing. I enjoyed reading this sweet historical romance. I thought this story was well written and I couldn't put it down. I loved reading about Lorena, Drew and Brogan's journey. This story had romance, action, and discovery all in one. I recommend others read this story, you won't be disappointed.

This was a fun historical read set in early 1800s New England. I liked the mix of characters Lisa Norato created in Prize of My Heart. I enjoyed the second half of the book more than the first half. Once they got into the sea voyage and the adventures involved there, I didn't want to put the book down. Captain Brogan set sail in his new ship in order to save Lorena from a kidnapping that would take her across the sea to England. Brogan was a broken man, having suffered from many cruel actions of others. This story ties up nicely with forgiveness and redemption.

I received this book from Bethany House in order to provide an honest review. This is my true critique of the book, not influenced at all by the publisher.