A Stranger's Secret by Laurie Alice Eakes

Set in the early 1800s on an English seacoast, Laurie Alice Eakes’ novel, A Stranger’s Secret, is a fascinating historical romance. The heroine, Morwenna, is a young widow trying to maintain a crumbling homestead to provide an inheritance for her baby son. When she finds a nearly drowned strange man washed up on her shore, she must nurse him to life, especially when she sees a medallion on his neck containing her own family crest.  The sudden disappearance of the medallion causes great suspicion. Then, a move to Morwenna’s wealthy and influential grandparents’ estate, where David Chastain can be more properly cared for, leads to further mystery especially when someone tries to poison David. In spite of two other potential suitors, family intrigue and near-death experiences, Morwenna and David’s love for each other grows. As I read this compelling novel, I tried to identify the villain; however, the twists and turns lead to a surprising conclusion that is worth waiting for.  In a Stranger’s Secret, the author has created a Gothic-era tale of mystery and a sweet love story.  I highly recommend this novel. . I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, but I was not required to write a positive review and the words expressed here are my own.

Horse in the Wilderness

An improbable romance between a music teacher with a hidden past and a horse lover with a mysterious fiance comes together in Debbie Eckles’ Christian novel, Horse in the Wilderness. When Autumn Parker’s beloved horse is lost, her search to find him leads into an unexpected mystery.  A sinister someone is causing strange events that may well put Autumn and her family in grave danger.  After an abrasive beginning, Autumn and the teacher find a common interest in a local band. However, all is not sweet harmony as events and people intervene to disturb the budding romance. A Christian theme runs throughout the book and redemption and forgiveness are prominent and honestly presented. The author’s descriptions of the horse country are vivid. I could feel the jostling of Autumn’s truck as it sped up a mountain road and almost see the gravel spraying from the tires.  I could see the horses grazing in their green pastures. The plot develops well as romantic tension develops between Autumn and Brent who must learn to deal with their pasts in order to move forward.  The action is fast-paced as events are woven together to a fitting, though surprising, conclusion.  I found myself swiping from page to page as my Kindle version of the novel became difficult to put down.  I highly recommend this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.  I was not required to write a positive review and the words expressed here are my own.