To the Farthest Shores by Elizabeth Camden

I don't how authors like Elizabeth Camden do it. They come up with the most interesting story lines and every book is different and intriguing. I feel like I learn so much from her books and enjoy every bit of them. I know a book is good when it takes me 3 days to read the final chapter because I am not ready to be finished. To the Farthest Shores was different than I expected. It was about a nurse and a soldier, but not at all in the typical sense. Throw in some spies, a kind sailor and his bird, oysters and pearls. a precious child, and deceit and you have a wonderful story. Oh, not to forget the flirty neighbor next door and hidden, yet exposed secrets. This book makes you question whether one can trust another to take a chance on love once they have been badly burned. I found myself wondering if I was in that situation would I have done it that way? I honestly don't know. Decisions of the heart are painstaking and sometimes unable to be undone. Pain and vulnerability must be involved at some points. It is a tough call, but all one can do is hope to do what is right. This book was involved, action packed, humorous, and delightful. I highly recommend it. I was allowed by the author through Bethany House to read it in exchange for my honest opinion.

A Note Yet Unsung by Tamera Alexander

All that master violinist, Rebekah Carrington, wanted to do was play her instrument before an audience and be appreciated for her talent and love of music. She didn't want to make a ton of money, just to share the deep affection she had for the violin and stir others to love it as well, Unfortunately, in her time period, women were not allowed to play the violin publicly, and sometimes even privately. It was very much looked down on and even the Nashville Philharmonic was made up entirely of men. The conductor, Nathaniel Whitcomb, was never going to budge and let her join. Mainly because doing so would put his reputation and career at risk. He did not deny the talent she possessed. However, Nathaniel had secrets of his own. And when Rebekah stumbles upon them, a bond stronger than one's reputation is forged. But, how can these two people fight for the love they want and against the external factors of society and serious health issues? I won't tell you how or whether this works out, but rather that this is an amazing, uplifting, frustrating, and wonderful story. Tamera Alexander touches the heart and soul of her readers once again. I was so thankful to Bethany House for letting me read this in exchange for an honest review. I truly enjoyed this story and highly recommend it to all age groups and types of people