What do you think?
Rate this book
My Heart Belongs
My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island: Maude’s Mooring
Moor your heart on Mackinac Island along with resident sweetheart Maude Welling, an heiress trying to prove her worth by working incognito as a maid at the Grand Hotel. Meet Ben Steffans, a journalist posing as a wealthy industrialist who has come to the island to uncover a story about impoverished men pursuing heiresses at the famed hotel. Will a growing love between Maude and Ben be scuttled when truths are revealed in this Gilded Age romance?
256 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2017
About the author
Carrie Fancett Pagels
34 books684 followersCarrie Fancett Pagels is a multi-award-winning, bestselling, multi-published author of Christian fiction. She resides with her family in the Historic Triangle of Virginia, but hails from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan--where she loves to visit often.
You can follow Carrie on BookBub at bit.ly/35wBSk3
You can follow Carrie on BookBub at bit.ly/35wBSk3
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
June 8, 2017
I'm between 3.5 stars and 4 stars so rounding up I gave it 4!
If you love historical Christian Fiction I highly recommend any of the books from this "My Heart Belongs" series. There are 6 books total and they release every other month throughout 2017. This is the fourth one I've read and I can't wait to finish out with the last two.
Maude's story takes place on the beautiful Mackinac Island. No I haven't visited but from the descriptions throughout the story and the history behind the Island resort, it sounds lovely. The Grand Hotel, The Winds of Mackinac Inn, the stables, the quaint setting and the ferry, as well as the carriages traveling all over the island transporting the tourists as well as the locals. Oh I can't forget the fun little soda shop. It really had me wanting to dress up in a beautiful Victorian style gown, grab a parasol, and ride along the streets in an open air carriage. Doesn't that sound fun? Ok I'm sure not everyone would want to dress in a gown but maybe vacationing on an island and having a fun open air carriage ride? Count me in!!!
The author did a wonderful job with the descriptions of the different settings, not just the island, as you can probably tell from my above thoughts.
I enjoyed the different characters and the mystery that was surrounding each one. Many secrets, some that the characters purposely kept hidden and some that the characters had no understanding of but had several hints slowly revealed throughout the book that opened their eyes to the secret.
I liked the Prince and the Pauper feel and aspects that the author added to the story. And a fun cameo from Mark Twain himself. If you read the author's notes(or it could be the forward) she discusses where part of the idea of using the Prince and the Pauper came from.
Maude's family has owned and are many of the main year round residents of Mackinac Island and throughout the story they all are hinting at something that Maude needs to discover for herself but won't share with her. That was frustrating at some points because everyone kept alluding to it but they treated her like a little girl sometimes in never revealing but just taunting her about this big thing. You could argue that they were doing it to protect her but after her hurt of being set aside from her childhood friend whom she was supposed to marry, it felt like they were just adding insult to injury. And yet it did build the mystery for the reader as to what was coming. I'm sure you will be able to pick up and know what they are all alluding to but there were some different twists that might make you second guess yourself.
A few different times in the story felt a little confusing to me but overall I liked reading about the characters and their backstories as well as trying to figure out the big reveals.
I liked a thought from one reviewer(Marlene), she quoted Maude praying for help forgiving another character and how it was refreshing to have a heroine who wasn't vindictive or holding a grudge throughout. I heartily agree with you Marlene! Great thought!
Ben has a past of heartache and sorrow and has a big shot at gaining his greatest dream. He just needs to get the big scoop on some of the tourists on the island, write a revealing newspaper article and he's on his way. Now is anything ever that easy? Of course not, especially in fiction where the characters must have a character arc and struggle and fail sometimes before they learn and grow. Ben is no exception but he was a good counterbalance for Maude. I enjoyed their interactions and the sweet romance between them.
Will everyone uncover or reveal their secrets? Can the secrets be forgiven or must the characters have no redemption from their lies and coverups? Mystery, fortunes, lavishness, health struggles, heartache, broken love, scandal, marriage, family, family and more family and lots of love and peace through God is all contained within these pages.
There's so many more aspects to this story that I didn't cover but I can't share all its secrets right?
Content: Clean. Religious aspects-Christian fiction so the characters attend church and discuss/think about God in their lives and ask for His help throughout the story. Nothing preachy and overbearing but a nice addition and really a good driving force behind the character's lives and stories. Oh I can't forgot to mention the music in the book and Ben's piano playing skills(can you tell I'm a pianist? LOL).
I received a copy from the publisher, Barbour publishing, via NetGalley. Thanks Barbour! All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
If you love historical Christian Fiction I highly recommend any of the books from this "My Heart Belongs" series. There are 6 books total and they release every other month throughout 2017. This is the fourth one I've read and I can't wait to finish out with the last two.
Maude's story takes place on the beautiful Mackinac Island. No I haven't visited but from the descriptions throughout the story and the history behind the Island resort, it sounds lovely. The Grand Hotel, The Winds of Mackinac Inn, the stables, the quaint setting and the ferry, as well as the carriages traveling all over the island transporting the tourists as well as the locals. Oh I can't forget the fun little soda shop. It really had me wanting to dress up in a beautiful Victorian style gown, grab a parasol, and ride along the streets in an open air carriage. Doesn't that sound fun? Ok I'm sure not everyone would want to dress in a gown but maybe vacationing on an island and having a fun open air carriage ride? Count me in!!!
The author did a wonderful job with the descriptions of the different settings, not just the island, as you can probably tell from my above thoughts.
I enjoyed the different characters and the mystery that was surrounding each one. Many secrets, some that the characters purposely kept hidden and some that the characters had no understanding of but had several hints slowly revealed throughout the book that opened their eyes to the secret.
I liked the Prince and the Pauper feel and aspects that the author added to the story. And a fun cameo from Mark Twain himself. If you read the author's notes(or it could be the forward) she discusses where part of the idea of using the Prince and the Pauper came from.
Maude's family has owned and are many of the main year round residents of Mackinac Island and throughout the story they all are hinting at something that Maude needs to discover for herself but won't share with her. That was frustrating at some points because everyone kept alluding to it but they treated her like a little girl sometimes in never revealing but just taunting her about this big thing. You could argue that they were doing it to protect her but after her hurt of being set aside from her childhood friend whom she was supposed to marry, it felt like they were just adding insult to injury. And yet it did build the mystery for the reader as to what was coming. I'm sure you will be able to pick up and know what they are all alluding to but there were some different twists that might make you second guess yourself.
A few different times in the story felt a little confusing to me but overall I liked reading about the characters and their backstories as well as trying to figure out the big reveals.
I liked a thought from one reviewer(Marlene), she quoted Maude praying for help forgiving another character and how it was refreshing to have a heroine who wasn't vindictive or holding a grudge throughout. I heartily agree with you Marlene! Great thought!
Ben has a past of heartache and sorrow and has a big shot at gaining his greatest dream. He just needs to get the big scoop on some of the tourists on the island, write a revealing newspaper article and he's on his way. Now is anything ever that easy? Of course not, especially in fiction where the characters must have a character arc and struggle and fail sometimes before they learn and grow. Ben is no exception but he was a good counterbalance for Maude. I enjoyed their interactions and the sweet romance between them.
Will everyone uncover or reveal their secrets? Can the secrets be forgiven or must the characters have no redemption from their lies and coverups? Mystery, fortunes, lavishness, health struggles, heartache, broken love, scandal, marriage, family, family and more family and lots of love and peace through God is all contained within these pages.
There's so many more aspects to this story that I didn't cover but I can't share all its secrets right?
Content: Clean. Religious aspects-Christian fiction so the characters attend church and discuss/think about God in their lives and ask for His help throughout the story. Nothing preachy and overbearing but a nice addition and really a good driving force behind the character's lives and stories. Oh I can't forgot to mention the music in the book and Ben's piano playing skills(can you tell I'm a pianist? LOL).
I received a copy from the publisher, Barbour publishing, via NetGalley. Thanks Barbour! All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
February 21, 2022DNF at pg. 114 (roughly, read on Kindle, 44%, stopped at chapter 15.)
Now, it's no secret that I typically really enjoy the secret/hidden identities trope. But for some reason, this one just rubbed me the wrong way. There was more deceit from both characters than I was comfortable with and Ben thought he had to act like a jerk to everyone (except her, of course) to play the part of a rich man.
They were both very childish in their mannerisms and I already wasn't a fan of different elements when one of my least favorite tropes--that I'm not sure has a name?--entered in. He gets injured and she assists the doctor. (Who is one of her many, many relatives on the Island. How is she related to literally everyone??) She is then ordered to help take off his clothes and while she's a blushing and stuttering mess over this, she checks out his muscles and chest hair in much more detail than I'd care to know. (Shall we call this the "they're-injuired-but-look-at-their-body" trope? or perhaps the "injured-and-totally-not-appropriate-for-the-current-situation-to-be-checking-them-out" trope?)
So, DNF it is!
Content from Chapters 1-14.
Spiritual Content: A few Scriptures are read & mentioned; Prayers; Church Going & a Sermon; Ben thinks about back when his father was persecuted for his Catholic faith in Bavaria and that his child were baptized in the Protestant faith; ‘H’s are capitalized when referring to God; Mentions of God, thanking Him, & forgiveness; Mentions of churches, church going, services, a sermon, a pastor, & Sunday school; A couple mentions of those in the Bible;
*Note: A mention of Ben wanting to be alone with his demons after a church service; A mention of three in the morning being called “the devil’s own hour”; A mention of a woman calling Ben a heathen.
Negative Content: Minor cussing including: a ‘bug off’, a ‘drat’, a ‘gads!’, and three forms of ‘biddy’; Pain & Injuries (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a shipwreck, rescuing survivors, & the possibilities of drownings (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of fights/fighting, thugs, pain, injuries, & blood; Mentions of deceit, lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of drinking, sobering up, alcohol, & taverns (Ben has the liquor removed from his room, but then thinks that perhaps his fictional persona would surely imbibe); Mentions of smoking, pipes, & tobacco; A few mentions of fires & arson; A couple mentions of the Civil War & deaths; A couple mentions of children playing like they’re in a war & execution; A couple mentions of slavery & slaves; A couple mentions of thieves; A couple mentions of gambling & bets; A couple mentions of manure; A mention of divorce; A mention of jealousy.
Sexual Content: Touches, Nearness, & Warmth (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to hold hands; Blushes; Noticing & Smelling (including a man’s muscles and hairy chest, up to semi-detailed); Ben gets injured and Maude is told by her Uncle (the Doctor) to help remove his shirt, lots of blushes and nearness & noticing his muscles and chest hair (up to semi-detailed); When a woman passes by in a low-cut gown and Ben thinks that while he doesn’t find such immodest attire appealing, perhaps the person he’s disguising himself as (Fredrich, who I don’t believe is a real person, but just a fictional name/character he’s posing as) might and he should act the part by smiling at her; Mentions of Ben yelling at a maid to get out of his room, Maude trying to decide if he was acting to throw off suspicion or if the maid was trying to seduce him, her suggestive behavior, & the maid’s “visit” to his bed; Mentions of a womanizer, his comments, & his list of their assets (both income and property holdings, but he adds that the feminine charms are a bonus, barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of a rule about maids not being alone with a man in a room & running off if a man tries to take advantage of them; A few mentions of kisses & embraces; A few mentions of a man leering at Maude & another winking at her; A few mentions of jealousy; A mention of Ben assuming Maude hasn’t seen a bare chested man, let alone a man’s birthday suit (removing his shirt scene); A mention of the assumption that others may make if they see Maude & Ben alone outdoor together at night; A mention (from Maude) about a woman looking more at home at a tavern because of her appearance; Love, falling in love, & the emotions.
And because I want you to be just as rolling your eyes/horrified as I was during this part, I'm putting the removing the shirt scene below. If you've seen this kind of scene before, then it may not bother you, but I'd like to ask younger teens (16 and younger) to please think twice about reading it. Just trust me that it's absolutely ridiculous, okay? I truly want the best for you and really don't want these thoughts in your head.
The only reason I'm sharing it because this is a major reason why Christian Fiction (especially Historical Fiction) has a bad rap. Some authors overly sexualize things that do not need to be sexual. More than look at her bare ankle, a lingering glance at his taut muscles, a long glimpse at her neck and dress's neckline. I'm so over it.
(Context: She is not a nurse, she has never been a nurse that we know of at this point. Her uncle is the doctor and for some reason enlists her help instead of a maid because the women in their family "do their duty" and "duty over modesty" Not caring a whit for social standards of the time--which if she was a nurse, I could somewhat understand the Uncle Doctor's point, but she's not, so??)
More parts that raised red flags to me about Ben:
"A young woman attired in a low-cut gown sashayed by them, fixing her gaze on Ben. “Good afternoon.” His voice came out low, almost a growl. He didn’t find such immodest attire appealing. But Friedrich König [the person he's undercover pretending to be] might, and he needed to act the part. He smiled at her in what he hoped was a charming fashion."
"Ben frowned at the dark, liquid-filled cut-glass decanters that covered a low table. “You can remove those from the room.” Another faux pas—most wealthy young men would be celebrating the premium brandies, sherry, and whiskey contained in the crystal containers. “Always good to wait on a fellow temperance man.” “Yes, a temperance man. That’s right.” But Friedrich König would surely imbibe. “At least when I’m keeping my own company. For business, I must keep up appearances or I’ll be considered staid.”
"[Maude]“Sir, thank you for saving my brother.”
[Ben, thinking] Sir? In my dreams, she calls me “darling.”
Yet earlier, when [Maude]’s beautiful features had bunched in offense at his oafish leer, he’d regretted the behavior his job required from him. {But, like, why are you acting like this? Did the boss guy at the paper say you had to play a jerk?}
Now, it's no secret that I typically really enjoy the secret/hidden identities trope. But for some reason, this one just rubbed me the wrong way. There was more deceit from both characters than I was comfortable with and Ben thought he had to act like a jerk to everyone (except her, of course) to play the part of a rich man.
They were both very childish in their mannerisms and I already wasn't a fan of different elements when one of my least favorite tropes--that I'm not sure has a name?--entered in. He gets injured and she assists the doctor. (Who is one of her many, many relatives on the Island. How is she related to literally everyone??) She is then ordered to help take off his clothes and while she's a blushing and stuttering mess over this, she checks out his muscles and chest hair in much more detail than I'd care to know. (Shall we call this the "they're-injuired-but-look-at-their-body" trope? or perhaps the "injured-and-totally-not-appropriate-for-the-current-situation-to-be-checking-them-out" trope?)
So, DNF it is!
Content from Chapters 1-14.
Spiritual Content: A few Scriptures are read & mentioned; Prayers; Church Going & a Sermon; Ben thinks about back when his father was persecuted for his Catholic faith in Bavaria and that his child were baptized in the Protestant faith; ‘H’s are capitalized when referring to God; Mentions of God, thanking Him, & forgiveness; Mentions of churches, church going, services, a sermon, a pastor, & Sunday school; A couple mentions of those in the Bible;
*Note: A mention of Ben wanting to be alone with his demons after a church service; A mention of three in the morning being called “the devil’s own hour”; A mention of a woman calling Ben a heathen.
Negative Content: Minor cussing including: a ‘bug off’, a ‘drat’, a ‘gads!’, and three forms of ‘biddy’; Pain & Injuries (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a shipwreck, rescuing survivors, & the possibilities of drownings (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of fights/fighting, thugs, pain, injuries, & blood; Mentions of deceit, lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of drinking, sobering up, alcohol, & taverns (Ben has the liquor removed from his room, but then thinks that perhaps his fictional persona would surely imbibe); Mentions of smoking, pipes, & tobacco; A few mentions of fires & arson; A couple mentions of the Civil War & deaths; A couple mentions of children playing like they’re in a war & execution; A couple mentions of slavery & slaves; A couple mentions of thieves; A couple mentions of gambling & bets; A couple mentions of manure; A mention of divorce; A mention of jealousy.
Sexual Content: Touches, Nearness, & Warmth (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to hold hands; Blushes; Noticing & Smelling (including a man’s muscles and hairy chest, up to semi-detailed); Ben gets injured and Maude is told by her Uncle (the Doctor) to help remove his shirt, lots of blushes and nearness & noticing his muscles and chest hair (up to semi-detailed); When a woman passes by in a low-cut gown and Ben thinks that while he doesn’t find such immodest attire appealing, perhaps the person he’s disguising himself as (Fredrich, who I don’t believe is a real person, but just a fictional name/character he’s posing as) might and he should act the part by smiling at her; Mentions of Ben yelling at a maid to get out of his room, Maude trying to decide if he was acting to throw off suspicion or if the maid was trying to seduce him, her suggestive behavior, & the maid’s “visit” to his bed; Mentions of a womanizer, his comments, & his list of their assets (both income and property holdings, but he adds that the feminine charms are a bonus, barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of a rule about maids not being alone with a man in a room & running off if a man tries to take advantage of them; A few mentions of kisses & embraces; A few mentions of a man leering at Maude & another winking at her; A few mentions of jealousy; A mention of Ben assuming Maude hasn’t seen a bare chested man, let alone a man’s birthday suit (removing his shirt scene); A mention of the assumption that others may make if they see Maude & Ben alone outdoor together at night; A mention (from Maude) about a woman looking more at home at a tavern because of her appearance; Love, falling in love, & the emotions.
And because I want you to be just as rolling your eyes/horrified as I was during this part, I'm putting the removing the shirt scene below. If you've seen this kind of scene before, then it may not bother you, but I'd like to ask younger teens (16 and younger) to please think twice about reading it. Just trust me that it's absolutely ridiculous, okay? I truly want the best for you and really don't want these thoughts in your head.
The only reason I'm sharing it because this is a major reason why Christian Fiction (especially Historical Fiction) has a bad rap. Some authors overly sexualize things that do not need to be sexual. More than look at her bare ankle, a lingering glance at his taut muscles, a long glimpse at her neck and dress's neckline. I'm so over it.
(Context: She is not a nurse, she has never been a nurse that we know of at this point. Her uncle is the doctor and for some reason enlists her help instead of a maid because the women in their family "do their duty" and "duty over modesty" Not caring a whit for social standards of the time--which if she was a nurse, I could somewhat understand the Uncle Doctor's point, but she's not, so??)
More parts that raised red flags to me about Ben:
"A young woman attired in a low-cut gown sashayed by them, fixing her gaze on Ben. “Good afternoon.” His voice came out low, almost a growl. He didn’t find such immodest attire appealing. But Friedrich König [the person he's undercover pretending to be] might, and he needed to act the part. He smiled at her in what he hoped was a charming fashion."
"Ben frowned at the dark, liquid-filled cut-glass decanters that covered a low table. “You can remove those from the room.” Another faux pas—most wealthy young men would be celebrating the premium brandies, sherry, and whiskey contained in the crystal containers. “Always good to wait on a fellow temperance man.” “Yes, a temperance man. That’s right.” But Friedrich König would surely imbibe. “At least when I’m keeping my own company. For business, I must keep up appearances or I’ll be considered staid.”
"[Maude]“Sir, thank you for saving my brother.”
[Ben, thinking] Sir? In my dreams, she calls me “darling.”
Yet earlier, when [Maude]’s beautiful features had bunched in offense at his oafish leer, he’d regretted the behavior his job required from him. {But, like, why are you acting like this? Did the boss guy at the paper say you had to play a jerk?}
July 18, 2017
This is the best book I've read by Carrie Fancett Pagels to date. I love her descriptions of Mackinac Island and because of them I would really love to visit the island. I have read other My Heart Belongs books by Barbour books and they are all very enjoyable. I have to say my favorite character is Jack, what an imp! What a fabulous and strong lady Maude is and I love her name and love how Jack called her Muddie! Maude and Ben's romance I wasn't sure of it lasting but I am sure glad it did and it was fun to read about. The plot was strong and I really enjoyed it and feel like I just came back from a trip through time to Mackinac Island.
Pub Date 01 Jul 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Books for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Pub Date 01 Jul 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Books for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
July 2, 2017
My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island: Maude’s Mooring by Carrie Fancett Pagels, (2017, Barbour) is fourth in the My Heart Belongs series. It’s a Christian historical romance set in Michigan in 1895. Books in this series are all standalone, unified only in that each is a Christian historical romance set in a different state. I selected this book from NetGalley (in exchange for an honest review) because I previously enjoyed My Heart Belongs in the Superstition Mountains: Carmella’s Quandary.
Rating: 4 1/2 stars
The heroine: Maude Welling, 21, is anticipating the return of her fiance Greyson from his travels. Only… he has come home with a wife! This is upsetting to her and it poses a problem: Maude’s father will only allow her to take over the family hotel as a married woman. The Winds of Mackinac has been in the family for generations, and Maude’s recently deceased mother “had prepared her since childhood to take over the running of the inn.” But her father is concerned that the level of responsibility required would exert too much pressure on her, and so he wants Maude to have a husband to share the burden. Maude disagrees and takes extreme measures to prove herself...
The hero: Ben Steffan is a society columnist for the Detroit Post. He’s on Mackinac Island posing as the German-speaking, wealthy industrialist “Friedrich Konig” in order to “spot the targets for his article,” which in turn will likely assure his promotion to assistant editor. Immediately after he arrives (on the same train as Greyson and his wife), Ben encounters a distraught Maude, discombobulated from the shock of Greyson’s marriage. Ben seems rather taken with Maude right off the bat.
Christian elements: Pagels’ portrayal of God’s presence in everyday life is good. Both the hero and heroine avoid alcohol, which is in line with many Christians’ thinking about the topic. At one point, Maude invites Ben to attend her church, where she is a Sunday school teacher. (Although, her reason for inviting him is a bit odd, in my opinion.) A few quotes are below:
“It was as though God had allowed her that tiny moment of kindness to assuage the pain Greyson’s betrayal had delivered.”
“For months now, God had seemed to be telling her that Greyson was not the man for her.”
At 6% on my Kindle: “Last night she’d prayed for Greyson and Anna and asked God to help her to forgive them.” Bravo, Ms. Pagels. Nice to see a heroine not holding onto a grudge throughout the book for once! Forgiveness at the beginning! Awesome!
Is it clean/chaste? Yes, most certainly!
What I liked:
*The minor detail included about sleeves and armbands - I never knew!
*The surprises in this book. I was genuinely surprised multiple times. What fun!
*I was pleased with the inclusion of “Frederick’s” German phrases, along with translations consistently offered in a smooth way. I find it frustrating when I’m reading and cannot figure out the meaning of foreign phrases from the context! Ms. Pagels’ handling of this is superior to that of any other author in memory. (My earliest experience with untranslated foreign phrases in my reading material was Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot mysteries. Boy, that always frustrated me! And I read every single one!)
What I didn’t like: (These are very minor points that I don’t think much affect the quality of the story.)
*The interest Ben and Maude have for each other seemed to be too much too soon. I disliked: “Why did her [Maude’s] thoughts continue to drift off to the stranger rather than to her childhood sweetheart?” No matter the reason for Maude’s upset at her betrayal by Greyson, I think it would be more natural to have her dwell on the probable reason for Greyson’s marriage. With perhaps just a thought or two about the handsome and kind Ben.
*At the beginning of the book, Maude is shown playing her own music on the piano, and yet that is never revisited.
*A few phrases here and there make this book sound like it might be a sequel. I’ve looked at the descriptions of all of Ms Pagels’ previous books, and didn’t find anything that sounded like a backstory.
“Begging your pardon, but none of those ladies lifted a finger to help us when Pa went missing.”
“Their gardener had finally sobered up long enough to come back and perform his job adequately again.”
There were a few other quotes that made me think I was missing something, including at least one mention of an offstage character.
*Early on, Maude is suspicious of Ben’s accent and how he represents himself, but nothing is ever made of that. She doesn’t investigate and eventually drops it. Yet, she is surprised later when she learns Frederick is not the person he purports to be.
***********
The bottom line: I really enjoyed this book because of the romance, but also because of the things that took me by surprise. I recommend this book to fans of historical American Christian romance. I look forward to reading more by this author, and plan to read The Fruitcake Challenge , which I’m particularly interested in as it is set in a lumber camp!
Rating: 4 1/2 stars
The heroine: Maude Welling, 21, is anticipating the return of her fiance Greyson from his travels. Only… he has come home with a wife! This is upsetting to her and it poses a problem: Maude’s father will only allow her to take over the family hotel as a married woman. The Winds of Mackinac has been in the family for generations, and Maude’s recently deceased mother “had prepared her since childhood to take over the running of the inn.” But her father is concerned that the level of responsibility required would exert too much pressure on her, and so he wants Maude to have a husband to share the burden. Maude disagrees and takes extreme measures to prove herself...
The hero: Ben Steffan is a society columnist for the Detroit Post. He’s on Mackinac Island posing as the German-speaking, wealthy industrialist “Friedrich Konig” in order to “spot the targets for his article,” which in turn will likely assure his promotion to assistant editor. Immediately after he arrives (on the same train as Greyson and his wife), Ben encounters a distraught Maude, discombobulated from the shock of Greyson’s marriage. Ben seems rather taken with Maude right off the bat.
Christian elements: Pagels’ portrayal of God’s presence in everyday life is good. Both the hero and heroine avoid alcohol, which is in line with many Christians’ thinking about the topic. At one point, Maude invites Ben to attend her church, where she is a Sunday school teacher. (Although, her reason for inviting him is a bit odd, in my opinion.) A few quotes are below:
“It was as though God had allowed her that tiny moment of kindness to assuage the pain Greyson’s betrayal had delivered.”
“For months now, God had seemed to be telling her that Greyson was not the man for her.”
At 6% on my Kindle: “Last night she’d prayed for Greyson and Anna and asked God to help her to forgive them.” Bravo, Ms. Pagels. Nice to see a heroine not holding onto a grudge throughout the book for once! Forgiveness at the beginning! Awesome!
Is it clean/chaste? Yes, most certainly!
What I liked:
*The minor detail included about sleeves and armbands - I never knew!
*The surprises in this book. I was genuinely surprised multiple times. What fun!
*I was pleased with the inclusion of “Frederick’s” German phrases, along with translations consistently offered in a smooth way. I find it frustrating when I’m reading and cannot figure out the meaning of foreign phrases from the context! Ms. Pagels’ handling of this is superior to that of any other author in memory. (My earliest experience with untranslated foreign phrases in my reading material was Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot mysteries. Boy, that always frustrated me! And I read every single one!)
What I didn’t like: (These are very minor points that I don’t think much affect the quality of the story.)
*The interest Ben and Maude have for each other seemed to be too much too soon. I disliked: “Why did her [Maude’s] thoughts continue to drift off to the stranger rather than to her childhood sweetheart?” No matter the reason for Maude’s upset at her betrayal by Greyson, I think it would be more natural to have her dwell on the probable reason for Greyson’s marriage. With perhaps just a thought or two about the handsome and kind Ben.
*At the beginning of the book, Maude is shown playing her own music on the piano, and yet that is never revisited.
*A few phrases here and there make this book sound like it might be a sequel. I’ve looked at the descriptions of all of Ms Pagels’ previous books, and didn’t find anything that sounded like a backstory.
“Begging your pardon, but none of those ladies lifted a finger to help us when Pa went missing.”
“Their gardener had finally sobered up long enough to come back and perform his job adequately again.”
There were a few other quotes that made me think I was missing something, including at least one mention of an offstage character.
*Early on, Maude is suspicious of Ben’s accent and how he represents himself, but nothing is ever made of that. She doesn’t investigate and eventually drops it. Yet, she is surprised later when she learns Frederick is not the person he purports to be.
***********
The bottom line: I really enjoyed this book because of the romance, but also because of the things that took me by surprise. I recommend this book to fans of historical American Christian romance. I look forward to reading more by this author, and plan to read The Fruitcake Challenge , which I’m particularly interested in as it is set in a lumber camp!
September 25, 2017
From what I've read, this book is a part of a series. I haven't read any of the other stories in the set, so I would say this can stand alone.
Do I dare admit that I hadn't ever heard of Mackinac Island before hearing about this book? I thought maybe it was a fictional place, but have since discovered that it's anything but made up and now, it's taken a place on my bucket list of places to visit. Pagels does a great job of bringing this island to life.
The story starts out with an immediate heartbreak, which bonded me to the island's sweetheart, Maude, from the get-go. A slight mystery blankets the plot, while a growing romance starts to blossom, but it's the characters that truly won me over. The unique situations they each found themselves in and the scrapes they work themselves out of really caught my interest, especially with Maude's younger brother, Jack. I loved the way the relationships were all inner-connected and the way the characters worked through issues to arrive at the ending.
This is a great read for those who enjoy Historical Fiction with a dash of mystery and romance. I felt like I was sitting in the island breeze and savoring a phosphate, and really enjoyed my stay within the pages of this book.
Content: mild romance; mild+ religious elements.
*I received a copy through Netgalley, which didn't influence my opinion in any way.*
Do I dare admit that I hadn't ever heard of Mackinac Island before hearing about this book? I thought maybe it was a fictional place, but have since discovered that it's anything but made up and now, it's taken a place on my bucket list of places to visit. Pagels does a great job of bringing this island to life.
The story starts out with an immediate heartbreak, which bonded me to the island's sweetheart, Maude, from the get-go. A slight mystery blankets the plot, while a growing romance starts to blossom, but it's the characters that truly won me over. The unique situations they each found themselves in and the scrapes they work themselves out of really caught my interest, especially with Maude's younger brother, Jack. I loved the way the relationships were all inner-connected and the way the characters worked through issues to arrive at the ending.
This is a great read for those who enjoy Historical Fiction with a dash of mystery and romance. I felt like I was sitting in the island breeze and savoring a phosphate, and really enjoyed my stay within the pages of this book.
Content: mild romance; mild+ religious elements.
*I received a copy through Netgalley, which didn't influence my opinion in any way.*
January 11, 2018
An enjoyable lighter read, fun and engaging. Maude wants to prove she can run a hotel by herself; Ben, to prove himself as a serious journalist. The two of them have a truly interesting little romance as they get to know each other through some unique situations. I have to admit to particularly liking Maude’s incorrigible little brother, who has dreams of being an Olympic runner. I also loved the old small-town feel, with the soda shop on the corner and everyone knowing everyone else, and I liked that both characters have a solid belief in God and that blessings for meals are specifically detailed.
What I didn’t like so well was that several times character motivations were obscure (especially for Robert’s character) and led to actions I didn’t fully understand the meaning of. Then there were several plot strings left dangling at the end; after the resolution for Maude and Ben, the story wraps up hastily. I particularly wanted more details of the will...”the will, the will, the will” throughout and then...the will? It wasn’t explained very well.
What I didn’t like so well was that several times character motivations were obscure (especially for Robert’s character) and led to actions I didn’t fully understand the meaning of. Then there were several plot strings left dangling at the end; after the resolution for Maude and Ben, the story wraps up hastily. I particularly wanted more details of the will...”the will, the will, the will” throughout and then...the will? It wasn’t explained very well.
June 23, 2017
Reviewed on: 5171 Miles Book Blog.
Reading My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island was the most pleasant walk down memory lane for me. When I saw this title on NetGalley, I had to request it immediately due to the title alone. I was born in Michigan and have vivid memories of visiting Mackinac Island and nearby St. Ignace as a child, though I haven’t been there in probably 20 years. The book featured scenes around Mackinac Island’s most famous landmarks, such as Arch Rock and The Grand Hotel and other areas around the island. One of the most interesting things about Mackinac Island is its restriction of motor vehicles. All of the sights must be seen from a carriage, bicycle, or on foot. I enjoyed the author’s use of bicycles in the story, making it seem realistic to the actual island, though the book was set in a time period before cars would have been common.
In the first half of the story, we are acquainted with Maude, a young woman who finds she has been jilted by her beau. Her hopes of running the inn that has been in her family for years are dashed by her two-timing lover. Maude’s father’s refusal to turn the business over to his unmarried daughter forces her to take matters into her own hands by getting a job at the Grand Hotel as a maid, to prove her competence in managing a hotel.
Along the way, Maude meets a wealthy German aristocrat who seems immensely intriguing and kind. She cannot help but be captivated by him after he inadvertently helps her young brother. Unfortunately, this impressive German man also has a secret he isn’t telling, and Maude is loathe to trust anyone after being deceived.
I absolutely love reading historical romance because it allows me to learn and be transported to another era while enjoying a beautiful story. I have not familiarized myself too much with Christian romance, because in some ways it seems to be a bit of a paradox to me. I found myself pleasantly surprised with this love story and the Christian elements were the cherry on top of a sweet novel. I will definitely be seeking out the genre more in the future, possibly with more of Carrie Fancett Pagels’ books in the My Heart Belongs Series.
I found this story to be a tad underwhelming in the beginning and decided to take a little break at the worst time. If I would have continued reading the second half of the story, I would have been drawn in and finished reading much sooner. The latter half of this book was full of mystery I wasn’t expecting this story to feature. I was turning the pages as fast as possible to figure out the details behind each character. This is an intricately woven tale, chock full of interesting characters, family drama, and hard choices.
One of the most impressive pieces of information I took away from this novel was the addition of Mark Twain! I was so intrigued, I had to stop reading to open Google and see if he actually made an appearance at the Grand Hotel. Turns out, Carrie Fancett Pagels did some excellent research of the island’s history because Mark Twain was indeed a visitor. If I had waited until the author’s note at the end, I could have saved myself from the my incessant fact-checking of historical novels. I appreciated the clarification of what was fact and fiction within the novel in her end note.
As a whole, this novel had some slow points, but an overall interesting storyline that grabbed my attention in the end. I enjoyed recounting my time on the island as a child and imaging being there in the Gilded Age like Maude. I am thankful to Barbour Publishing and Netgalley for allowing me to experience a sense of nostalgia and review this novel for 5171 Miles Book Blog.
My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island: Maude’s Mooring releases on July 1st. Be sure to snag a copy if you are a fan of historical romance. This story allows readers to experience one of the most charming and unique places in the United States.
Reading My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island was the most pleasant walk down memory lane for me. When I saw this title on NetGalley, I had to request it immediately due to the title alone. I was born in Michigan and have vivid memories of visiting Mackinac Island and nearby St. Ignace as a child, though I haven’t been there in probably 20 years. The book featured scenes around Mackinac Island’s most famous landmarks, such as Arch Rock and The Grand Hotel and other areas around the island. One of the most interesting things about Mackinac Island is its restriction of motor vehicles. All of the sights must be seen from a carriage, bicycle, or on foot. I enjoyed the author’s use of bicycles in the story, making it seem realistic to the actual island, though the book was set in a time period before cars would have been common.
In the first half of the story, we are acquainted with Maude, a young woman who finds she has been jilted by her beau. Her hopes of running the inn that has been in her family for years are dashed by her two-timing lover. Maude’s father’s refusal to turn the business over to his unmarried daughter forces her to take matters into her own hands by getting a job at the Grand Hotel as a maid, to prove her competence in managing a hotel.
Along the way, Maude meets a wealthy German aristocrat who seems immensely intriguing and kind. She cannot help but be captivated by him after he inadvertently helps her young brother. Unfortunately, this impressive German man also has a secret he isn’t telling, and Maude is loathe to trust anyone after being deceived.
I absolutely love reading historical romance because it allows me to learn and be transported to another era while enjoying a beautiful story. I have not familiarized myself too much with Christian romance, because in some ways it seems to be a bit of a paradox to me. I found myself pleasantly surprised with this love story and the Christian elements were the cherry on top of a sweet novel. I will definitely be seeking out the genre more in the future, possibly with more of Carrie Fancett Pagels’ books in the My Heart Belongs Series.
I found this story to be a tad underwhelming in the beginning and decided to take a little break at the worst time. If I would have continued reading the second half of the story, I would have been drawn in and finished reading much sooner. The latter half of this book was full of mystery I wasn’t expecting this story to feature. I was turning the pages as fast as possible to figure out the details behind each character. This is an intricately woven tale, chock full of interesting characters, family drama, and hard choices.
One of the most impressive pieces of information I took away from this novel was the addition of Mark Twain! I was so intrigued, I had to stop reading to open Google and see if he actually made an appearance at the Grand Hotel. Turns out, Carrie Fancett Pagels did some excellent research of the island’s history because Mark Twain was indeed a visitor. If I had waited until the author’s note at the end, I could have saved myself from the my incessant fact-checking of historical novels. I appreciated the clarification of what was fact and fiction within the novel in her end note.
As a whole, this novel had some slow points, but an overall interesting storyline that grabbed my attention in the end. I enjoyed recounting my time on the island as a child and imaging being there in the Gilded Age like Maude. I am thankful to Barbour Publishing and Netgalley for allowing me to experience a sense of nostalgia and review this novel for 5171 Miles Book Blog.
My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island: Maude’s Mooring releases on July 1st. Be sure to snag a copy if you are a fan of historical romance. This story allows readers to experience one of the most charming and unique places in the United States.
July 3, 2017
This full review can be viewed on my blog along with others at: Shesgoingbookcrazy.com
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Living on an upscale island that is deserted for half of the year can be a difficult location for anyone to grow up in. Maude Wellings, the daughter of a man who had inherited an upscale inn on the island, desires to follow her familial female predecessors and become a business woman. Trying to prove her worth, she serves at the Grand Hotel, disguised as a maid.
While there, she meets Ben Steffans---also posing under a fake name---who is a reporter. Traveling to the island, he hopes to uncover a story on men trying to meet and marry wealthy women at the hotel solely for their fortune.
The tale of the island girl, and Detroit reporter weave together beneath lies, deceit, and second-chances.
------------------------------------
This book is part of the My Heart Belongs series, but can easily be read as a stand-alone, in my opinion. Set around historical settings, these romance tales are unique in location and time frame. This book was set on the amazing Mackinac Island, known for its amazing lakeside views, the Grand Hotel, and upscale living. Unfortunately, my appetite for atmospheric detail was not satiated. I wanted more of the island itself, life, and culture in detail. While the island wasn't the main focus of the story, it still is hard to deny such an iconic place more page time that what it was given. I can't ignore that there were some dollops given here and there, bur they managed to disguise themselves more than they should have beneath the romance itself.
The plot is centered around an unlikely romance between to people from very different backgrounds. While I appreciate the fact that this was a Christian fiction, I couldn't help but feel that it was not the main focus. Allusions to faith and God were few and far between, and stuck in at odd angles which made the text choppy and in-congruent. God seemed to be more of an afterthought. It simply didn't meet my expectations in that area.
One aspect that I enjoy was the era in which this was set, because social norms can be quite laughable. The lack of communication between characters due to propriety during that time makes the entire problem of this book. Every answer given is more indirect than the last, and only causes more confusion for the characters, if anything. This can be observed between both the main character, Maude Wellings, and her soon-to-be love interest Bob, disguised under the name of Friedrich. Gossip was the main form of communication, so many things were discovered via hearsay and speculation.
I also very much appreciated the author's ability and ingenuity with combining fiction with non-fiction. She took personal experiences, historical facts, and fictitious plots to fabricate this tale. (All of the details are provided at the end of the book in the Author Notes.
Overall, this was a decent read. The details I described above are my opinion only---and probably due to the fact that I just love Mackinac Island. If you haven't been there, I'd highly recommend that you visit. I mean, the only transportation is by horse and carriage, or by bike, still today! It's very nostalgic, with a LOT of history, and is a beautiful setting for a story.
Vulgarity: None.
Sexual content: Kissing only.
Violence. Zilch.
2.5 stars.
A big thanks to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Living on an upscale island that is deserted for half of the year can be a difficult location for anyone to grow up in. Maude Wellings, the daughter of a man who had inherited an upscale inn on the island, desires to follow her familial female predecessors and become a business woman. Trying to prove her worth, she serves at the Grand Hotel, disguised as a maid.
While there, she meets Ben Steffans---also posing under a fake name---who is a reporter. Traveling to the island, he hopes to uncover a story on men trying to meet and marry wealthy women at the hotel solely for their fortune.
The tale of the island girl, and Detroit reporter weave together beneath lies, deceit, and second-chances.
------------------------------------
This book is part of the My Heart Belongs series, but can easily be read as a stand-alone, in my opinion. Set around historical settings, these romance tales are unique in location and time frame. This book was set on the amazing Mackinac Island, known for its amazing lakeside views, the Grand Hotel, and upscale living. Unfortunately, my appetite for atmospheric detail was not satiated. I wanted more of the island itself, life, and culture in detail. While the island wasn't the main focus of the story, it still is hard to deny such an iconic place more page time that what it was given. I can't ignore that there were some dollops given here and there, bur they managed to disguise themselves more than they should have beneath the romance itself.
The plot is centered around an unlikely romance between to people from very different backgrounds. While I appreciate the fact that this was a Christian fiction, I couldn't help but feel that it was not the main focus. Allusions to faith and God were few and far between, and stuck in at odd angles which made the text choppy and in-congruent. God seemed to be more of an afterthought. It simply didn't meet my expectations in that area.
One aspect that I enjoy was the era in which this was set, because social norms can be quite laughable. The lack of communication between characters due to propriety during that time makes the entire problem of this book. Every answer given is more indirect than the last, and only causes more confusion for the characters, if anything. This can be observed between both the main character, Maude Wellings, and her soon-to-be love interest Bob, disguised under the name of Friedrich. Gossip was the main form of communication, so many things were discovered via hearsay and speculation.
I also very much appreciated the author's ability and ingenuity with combining fiction with non-fiction. She took personal experiences, historical facts, and fictitious plots to fabricate this tale. (All of the details are provided at the end of the book in the Author Notes.
Overall, this was a decent read. The details I described above are my opinion only---and probably due to the fact that I just love Mackinac Island. If you haven't been there, I'd highly recommend that you visit. I mean, the only transportation is by horse and carriage, or by bike, still today! It's very nostalgic, with a LOT of history, and is a beautiful setting for a story.
Vulgarity: None.
Sexual content: Kissing only.
Violence. Zilch.
2.5 stars.
A big thanks to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!
August 26, 2017
I want to write some of my thoughts about this beautiful story by Carrie Fancett Pagels.
First off let me say that Mackinac Island is a beautiful place to visit.
There are certain things that haven't changed with time. Like no cars allowed only horses, carriages, and bycicle.
The very first time I went when I was a child breath away. Every time my parents asked me where I wanted to go I said Mackinac island.
The bridge oh my!!!! just absolutely takes your breath away!!! I cannot imagine how they ever managed to get across the straights.
The Grand does live up to its name. We stayed there in 2005 and President Bush visited it the same time we were there but weren't dressed for dinner lol!!
As I was reading this story about Maude and Ben I was transported back to the 1800's.
Carrie you have done a fabulous job in bringing me back to my most favorite place in the whole wide world!!!! I wish I could live there!!!
That's my idea of Heaven.
Ben and Maude certainly had their differences but isn't it true that opposites attract?
I also felt like was a part of the great rescue and was especially intrigued by how fast the islanders came to help out those who were in distress.
I think and wish that we all took the time out to help each other out today like they did back then.
Maude is a special lady and equally determined to make things work out to her advantage. Sometimes it didn't always work!!!
Ben reminds me of the show Undercover Boss. He is determined to get to the bottom of a certain mystery.
I enjoyed this story especially for what I call a mystery and I enjoyed watching Ben and Maude find their way.
God has his timing of making things work to his advantage and my granny used to say there's a lid for every pot. She's so very right!!!!
I certainly hope Carrie writes more about my piece of heaven again!!
I love the Great Lakes.
I also don't understand how men can be so stubborn about women wanting to be their equal.
And we can't leave Jack out who is famous for finding trouble!! He's lot like me and sometimes I don't have to go far to find trouble without meaning too!!
I love Jack's energy. I'd love to borrow some from him!
I had to laugh at his " accident" tho.
He is to me, is what makes this story exciting!!!
I wanted very much to choke Greyson Luce. He had no idea how much he had lost. I kept screaming at him to wake up and see what's in front of him!!!
I think we are all like that at times.
Five stars for this book for sure!!!
I received a copy via Netgalley and no compensations were received. All word expressed are my own
First off let me say that Mackinac Island is a beautiful place to visit.
There are certain things that haven't changed with time. Like no cars allowed only horses, carriages, and bycicle.
The very first time I went when I was a child breath away. Every time my parents asked me where I wanted to go I said Mackinac island.
The bridge oh my!!!! just absolutely takes your breath away!!! I cannot imagine how they ever managed to get across the straights.
The Grand does live up to its name. We stayed there in 2005 and President Bush visited it the same time we were there but weren't dressed for dinner lol!!
As I was reading this story about Maude and Ben I was transported back to the 1800's.
Carrie you have done a fabulous job in bringing me back to my most favorite place in the whole wide world!!!! I wish I could live there!!!
That's my idea of Heaven.
Ben and Maude certainly had their differences but isn't it true that opposites attract?
I also felt like was a part of the great rescue and was especially intrigued by how fast the islanders came to help out those who were in distress.
I think and wish that we all took the time out to help each other out today like they did back then.
Maude is a special lady and equally determined to make things work out to her advantage. Sometimes it didn't always work!!!
Ben reminds me of the show Undercover Boss. He is determined to get to the bottom of a certain mystery.
I enjoyed this story especially for what I call a mystery and I enjoyed watching Ben and Maude find their way.
God has his timing of making things work to his advantage and my granny used to say there's a lid for every pot. She's so very right!!!!
I certainly hope Carrie writes more about my piece of heaven again!!
I love the Great Lakes.
I also don't understand how men can be so stubborn about women wanting to be their equal.
And we can't leave Jack out who is famous for finding trouble!! He's lot like me and sometimes I don't have to go far to find trouble without meaning too!!
I love Jack's energy. I'd love to borrow some from him!
I had to laugh at his " accident" tho.
He is to me, is what makes this story exciting!!!
I wanted very much to choke Greyson Luce. He had no idea how much he had lost. I kept screaming at him to wake up and see what's in front of him!!!
I think we are all like that at times.
Five stars for this book for sure!!!
I received a copy via Netgalley and no compensations were received. All word expressed are my own
October 31, 2021
1895 Mackinac Island, Michigan
Maude dreams of running the family inn and is frustrated with her father's refusal to all this until she's married.
Ben is willing to take extreme measures to achieve his dream of more pay and responsibility at his newspaper.
Young Jack was a fun addition to the novel and showed how grief impacts children too.
Maude dreams of running the family inn and is frustrated with her father's refusal to all this until she's married.
Ben is willing to take extreme measures to achieve his dream of more pay and responsibility at his newspaper.
Young Jack was a fun addition to the novel and showed how grief impacts children too.
July 26, 2017
I love Mackinac Island. (Pronounced Mack-en-naw) I've been going there since I was a child. And who didn't fall in love with the island watching "Somewhere in Time"? It's a magical place. So I couldn't wait to read another book set in one of my favorite places.
Maude Welling is an island native from a long line of island natives. Her mother and her grandmother were both strong women who worked hard managing their businesses, which in turn employed a great many people. With her mother and grandmother gone, Maude expects to inherit Winds of Mackinac, the hotel her family has owned for generations. But her father is against her running it alone, and her fiance just returned to the island ... with a bride.
Ben Steffen came to Mackinac Island in search of a story that would establish his newspaper reporting career. What he didn't know, was that his boss had set him up to settle a personal score. Posing as someone he's not, he falls for the beautiful island girl who was jilted by her suitor. But how can he pursue her while posing as someone he's not?
This story is full of twists and turns and unexpected characters. The island itself plays a huge role, with the sights, smells, and sounds coming through behind the scenes. Well worth reading!
Maude Welling is an island native from a long line of island natives. Her mother and her grandmother were both strong women who worked hard managing their businesses, which in turn employed a great many people. With her mother and grandmother gone, Maude expects to inherit Winds of Mackinac, the hotel her family has owned for generations. But her father is against her running it alone, and her fiance just returned to the island ... with a bride.
Ben Steffen came to Mackinac Island in search of a story that would establish his newspaper reporting career. What he didn't know, was that his boss had set him up to settle a personal score. Posing as someone he's not, he falls for the beautiful island girl who was jilted by her suitor. But how can he pursue her while posing as someone he's not?
This story is full of twists and turns and unexpected characters. The island itself plays a huge role, with the sights, smells, and sounds coming through behind the scenes. Well worth reading!
April 27, 2017
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.)
June 15, 2017
This story brings to mind the quote “Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive”, and the author has it coming on more than one front. Whether it is from our reporter Ben, or from Maude’s Grandmother or her Mother, or even her former beau, they all seem to hidden something.
The setting for this book is beautiful Mackinac Island, and year 1895, and we have arrived at a beautiful time of the year, spring, the rebirth, and full of the scents of blooming lilacs and other flowers.
The author has us wondering what is going on when Maude’s intended arrives back on the island, and as we are running with her to greet him, we see he is not alone. This is also the moment that Maude meets Ben Steffans, and soon Ada Fox, and these two along with Maude’s brother Jack will warm your heart.
Surprises abound here and we hope for the best now and in the future, and sure would love to hear how our Jack does in the Olympics!
Prevalent throughout this book is the love of God, and we see how many practice their faith in their everyday lives.
Come and get lost in this sweet story, and the lives of these characters, some are really going to surprise you.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Barbour Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
The setting for this book is beautiful Mackinac Island, and year 1895, and we have arrived at a beautiful time of the year, spring, the rebirth, and full of the scents of blooming lilacs and other flowers.
The author has us wondering what is going on when Maude’s intended arrives back on the island, and as we are running with her to greet him, we see he is not alone. This is also the moment that Maude meets Ben Steffans, and soon Ada Fox, and these two along with Maude’s brother Jack will warm your heart.
Surprises abound here and we hope for the best now and in the future, and sure would love to hear how our Jack does in the Olympics!
Prevalent throughout this book is the love of God, and we see how many practice their faith in their everyday lives.
Come and get lost in this sweet story, and the lives of these characters, some are really going to surprise you.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Barbour Books, and was not required to give a positive review.
July 22, 2017
A sweet romance set on Mackinac Island -- what a great locale for a summer read! I've had a fascination for this spectacular vacation spot for years and admit to googling images as I was reading. Pagels creates the ambiance of island life and I loved the close-knit community that always had Maude's well-being at heart. Lots of busy bodies -- especially since she's related to half the islanders!
She's spunky -- not about to allow being jilted to define her future. She's more mad than heartbroken and sets about trying to eke out her future on her own terms. I didn't always understand or agree with her decisions but I give her high marks for sheer determination.
I admit to having a problem with Ben's elaborate deception -- especially when he knows his actions will have a detrimental effect on the young woman he is beginning to have feelings for. It seems everyone harbors secrets in this idyllic setting and Ben is close to exposing them all.
A complicated love story unfolds on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Book provided courtesy of the author.
She's spunky -- not about to allow being jilted to define her future. She's more mad than heartbroken and sets about trying to eke out her future on her own terms. I didn't always understand or agree with her decisions but I give her high marks for sheer determination.
I admit to having a problem with Ben's elaborate deception -- especially when he knows his actions will have a detrimental effect on the young woman he is beginning to have feelings for. It seems everyone harbors secrets in this idyllic setting and Ben is close to exposing them all.
A complicated love story unfolds on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Book provided courtesy of the author.
January 10, 2018
Pagels is a prolific writer and knows how to weave a story brimming with interesting characters and engaging dialogue. The plot moves along at a nice pace, thereby making it an easy and quick read. I enjoyed seeing Mackinaw Island in my minds eye; the descriptions were incredibly vivid!
July 22, 2017
The Prince and the Pauper is one of my favorite Mark Twain stories, and I loved the references to it throughout Carrie Fancett Pagels’ latest novel! From the characters to the sermon to the author himself, this is very much a ‘prince and the pauper’ kind of story and will greatly appeal to fans of the same.
I also loved the setting at Pagels’ descriptive hand. Oh my goodness – the descriptions of Mackinac Island and the Grand Hotel have me wanting to book a vacation there right away! You’ll be able to smell the sea air and hear the gulls (safest way to encounter those terrifying creatures is in the pages of a book lol) and see the carriages and bikes. Pagels has done an incredible job with setting here; her love for Mackinac Island comes through vividly in her words.
Everyone in this story, it seems, has at least one big secret. Whether it’s their identity or their motives or even some knowledge that they’re keeping close, My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island carries with it a lot of intrigue. You will find yourself trying to uncover those secrets that are hidden even from we, the readers, and this mystery-like element to the characters and plot keeps you engaged and invested throughout!
I love both Maude and Ben, though some of their actions didn’t really make sense to me and their instalove raised my eyebrows a bit. (Ben had only just met Maude … very briefly … and already is thinking sentiments like, ‘in my dreams she calls me darling’.) Still – their growing friendship made me smile more than once and a couple scenes had me reaching for my fan!
Bottom Line: My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island is a sweet romance with vivid scenery and intriguing characters. One Goodreads reviewer said that Pagels “rolls up romance, twists, turns, mystery, scandal, intrigue, inspiration, humor, and adventure into a sweet story beautifully” and I completely agree! Each book I read by this author is even better than the last! If you love progressive era/Victorian fiction, you’ll want to grab this book for your TBR pile!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
see my review at Reading Is My SuperPower
I also loved the setting at Pagels’ descriptive hand. Oh my goodness – the descriptions of Mackinac Island and the Grand Hotel have me wanting to book a vacation there right away! You’ll be able to smell the sea air and hear the gulls (safest way to encounter those terrifying creatures is in the pages of a book lol) and see the carriages and bikes. Pagels has done an incredible job with setting here; her love for Mackinac Island comes through vividly in her words.
Everyone in this story, it seems, has at least one big secret. Whether it’s their identity or their motives or even some knowledge that they’re keeping close, My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island carries with it a lot of intrigue. You will find yourself trying to uncover those secrets that are hidden even from we, the readers, and this mystery-like element to the characters and plot keeps you engaged and invested throughout!
I love both Maude and Ben, though some of their actions didn’t really make sense to me and their instalove raised my eyebrows a bit. (Ben had only just met Maude … very briefly … and already is thinking sentiments like, ‘in my dreams she calls me darling’.) Still – their growing friendship made me smile more than once and a couple scenes had me reaching for my fan!
Bottom Line: My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island is a sweet romance with vivid scenery and intriguing characters. One Goodreads reviewer said that Pagels “rolls up romance, twists, turns, mystery, scandal, intrigue, inspiration, humor, and adventure into a sweet story beautifully” and I completely agree! Each book I read by this author is even better than the last! If you love progressive era/Victorian fiction, you’ll want to grab this book for your TBR pile!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
see my review at Reading Is My SuperPower
December 18, 2017
Carrie Fancett Pagels is an exceptional author. Her books are full of great descriptions so that you feel you are living in that time and place, easily visualizing everything she writes about. This July 1, 2017 release is sure to be a hit!
The beautiful cover is an instant draw and most appropriate for the wonderful historical novel. The book is written in a wonderful setting and definitely makes me want to go there on a trip! I love the mystery that develops throughout the book. It has a great plot!
There are several books to this series, of which I have read two. I am planning on reading all of them! Great series.
I received a copy of this e-book from Net Galley for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.
The beautiful cover is an instant draw and most appropriate for the wonderful historical novel. The book is written in a wonderful setting and definitely makes me want to go there on a trip! I love the mystery that develops throughout the book. It has a great plot!
There are several books to this series, of which I have read two. I am planning on reading all of them! Great series.
I received a copy of this e-book from Net Galley for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.
October 9, 2017
Maude has her work cut out for her as her world is falling apart due to some unanswered questions. The introduction of a mysterious man posing as a wealthy businessman adds a level of intensity to Maude's already confusing situation.
April 1, 2017
While being a part of My heart belongs series, this book can be read as a stand alone. Because her father won't let her run the inn without a husband, Maude Welling decides to prove to her father that she can run it without a husband by working incognito as a maid at the rival inn. The Winds of Mackinac Inn.has been in her mother’s family for generations, Undercover journalist Ben Steffans is posing as a wealthy industrialist and pursuing a story about impoverished men chasing heiresses at the famed Grand Hotel, but he himself soon becomes attracted to an intriguing maid. By saving Jack, Maude's younger brother, from injury Ben endears himself to the closed-mouthed islanders using the incident to dig deep for his story. While doing so, he uncovers scandals that threatens the love growing between them. What secret is her father hiding? Who is Mrs. Fox? What is her Uncle Robert hiding from her? Oh such mysteries! Will their love survive all this mystery?! I absolutely loved the characters and plot in this story!
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.
August 16, 2017
Well, Carrie Fancett Pagels has given me the travel bug....I'd never heard of Mackinac Island and now I'm dying to visit there and see the buildings and scenery. Maude had every right to love the apparently enchanting island and to do everything within her power to keep her family's inn safely within the family and the Mackinac Island community. It was my desire initially to become a journalist for a newspaper so I read with intrigue of Ben's position as spy to cover a story with such authenticity.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the My Heart Belongs series. The book is full of such vivid description that I felt as if I were actually walking along with the characters. I felt such compassion for Ben and Maude. Both of them seemed to be in positions where they felt they were at risk of losing so much. Maude feared losing the inn and her home and Ben feared being discovered at the Grand Hotel.
I give this book a rating of 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.
I received a copy of this book from netgalley and Barbour Books. All opinions of this review are mine and mine alone.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the My Heart Belongs series. The book is full of such vivid description that I felt as if I were actually walking along with the characters. I felt such compassion for Ben and Maude. Both of them seemed to be in positions where they felt they were at risk of losing so much. Maude feared losing the inn and her home and Ben feared being discovered at the Grand Hotel.
I give this book a rating of 5 stars and highly recommend it to readers.
I received a copy of this book from netgalley and Barbour Books. All opinions of this review are mine and mine alone.
June 5, 2017
Set in my beautiful state of Michigan on Mackinac Island, I loved that Author Carrie Fancett Pagels did her homework and portrayed the island true to form. Even including the lovely lilacs it’s known for! It was tough to see the class differences on the island but that was very real for its day and Carrie didn’t shy away from what would have happened and how people in all classes would have responded to situations.
Full of twists, turns, and intrigue, I was immediately pulled into this story. The characters of this book are very believable and they learn that trusting God is so very important. It was great to see growth portrayed as they learned this lesson, and to see how it affected their decisions.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more by this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a positive review.
Full of twists, turns, and intrigue, I was immediately pulled into this story. The characters of this book are very believable and they learn that trusting God is so very important. It was great to see growth portrayed as they learned this lesson, and to see how it affected their decisions.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more by this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a positive review.
April 11, 2017
My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island was a good read, but it didn't draw you in. I found myself wondering how these characters where in love. It didn't seem as though you had any more than mild attraction and then they were sweethearts. And why couldn't Maude leave the island? Her dad told Ben to find out but it was never mentioned again.
I felt like the novel had a slow start and a lot of things where suggested but never wholly unveiled. I would have liked to know more about what was going on with Greyson and Anna and about Ada and Peter, another small novel perhaps?
I received a free copy of this novel from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.
I felt like the novel had a slow start and a lot of things where suggested but never wholly unveiled. I would have liked to know more about what was going on with Greyson and Anna and about Ada and Peter, another small novel perhaps?
I received a free copy of this novel from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.
July 16, 2017
A story full of mystery and intrigue. Concealed identities and trust issues cause turmoil and chaos amidst the possibility of new love. Reading this great story makes me want to know more about Mackinac Island. I enjoyed this story very much. I received a copy of this story from NetGalley and the author and this is my personal honest opinion. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
September 13, 2018
Maudes' legacy entitles her to an inn on mackinc island; father has other plans. Ben is on the island for a visit; but, his deception is going to get him in trouble; can he do the right thing and turn things around. A romantic suspense, an author of my first reading, an enjoyable book. I will b reading more of Carrie Fancett Pagels books
July 27, 2017
FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH NET GALLEY. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!
Whenever I read anything about Mackinac Island and The Grand Hotel, I always wind up thinking of the movie Somewhere in Time when I do so. This book was no exception to that, but it also was a bit on the boring side.
This book gives us a very interesting glimpse into the time frame shortly after the hotel's opening. However, for me the book was marred by all of the deceptions that the main characters were so bent on weaving. Maude didn't attempt to get to the bottom of her father's stubbornness regarding selling the inn, she just went and did something that she didn't really understand the ramifications of, in order to get what she wanted. That seemed very selfish to me!
Then we have Ben, who uses his uncle's name to go undercover, then has to scramble when his uncle's actions make news headlines. He didn't seem the type to know what he wanted or where he was going in life, he was all reactionary because of what had happened to him and his family when he was a child.
I did like seeing the time period, and learning about how the islanders viewed the guests that came to the island, so that did work in its favor, but overall this was a disappointing read for me.
Whenever I read anything about Mackinac Island and The Grand Hotel, I always wind up thinking of the movie Somewhere in Time when I do so. This book was no exception to that, but it also was a bit on the boring side.
This book gives us a very interesting glimpse into the time frame shortly after the hotel's opening. However, for me the book was marred by all of the deceptions that the main characters were so bent on weaving. Maude didn't attempt to get to the bottom of her father's stubbornness regarding selling the inn, she just went and did something that she didn't really understand the ramifications of, in order to get what she wanted. That seemed very selfish to me!
Then we have Ben, who uses his uncle's name to go undercover, then has to scramble when his uncle's actions make news headlines. He didn't seem the type to know what he wanted or where he was going in life, he was all reactionary because of what had happened to him and his family when he was a child.
I did like seeing the time period, and learning about how the islanders viewed the guests that came to the island, so that did work in its favor, but overall this was a disappointing read for me.
July 20, 2017
I loved this book. was so enjoyable and a pace on my list to visit. Seems like one big family on Mackinac Island. Maude Welling's wants nothing more then to live her life on Mackinac Island married to Greyson and running the inn as man and wife. Greyson comes back to the Island but married, So now her father refuses to let her run the Inn on her own and is threatening to sale. She has to do something to prove to her father she can do it without a husband. Going to work in at the Grand as a maid she should be able to pull it off. But...
Ben Steffans journalist is working undercover to get a story on men seeking wealthy women to marry just to get their money. But meets a maid while staying at the Grand that he is very attracted too. As he is digging for the story he wants other can be hurt . What will he do? Can he write a story that can give him fame and a better job position and while at it ruin the lives of others?
Great story well written by Carrie and the characters are great. They are well developed as is the story.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review."
Ben Steffans journalist is working undercover to get a story on men seeking wealthy women to marry just to get their money. But meets a maid while staying at the Grand that he is very attracted too. As he is digging for the story he wants other can be hurt . What will he do? Can he write a story that can give him fame and a better job position and while at it ruin the lives of others?
Great story well written by Carrie and the characters are great. They are well developed as is the story.
"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review."
April 8, 2022
A sweet older lady in my church thought that I would enjoy this book, otherwise I probably wouldn’t have read it. While she was kind to think of me, I found the novel overly melodramatic. Sometimes Christian romances are the worst— nothing close to reality.
However, I did appreciate how “clean” the story was. I will be sure to thank the kind lady for thinking of me.
However, I did appreciate how “clean” the story was. I will be sure to thank the kind lady for thinking of me.
July 17, 2017
Ms. Pagels transports the reader back in time with her newest book "My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island." She gives lots of details about the time period. I appreciate the values and morals that the main characters in the book have. There is a very strong faith element that is inspiring. It is clever how Ms. Pagels uses the "Prince and the Pauper" sermon to reflect what is going on in her character's lives. Ms. Pagels also includes people with health issues in her story, which isn't often seen in this genre. This books makes me want to visit Mackinac Island! This is a clean read.
June 26, 2017
Now and then I read a book that just says summer is here! I recently finished reading My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island Maude's Mooring: by Carrie Fancett Pagels and this is just such a book.
My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island: Maude's Mooring by [Pagels, Carrie Fancett]
Maude Welling is a lovely young woman, considered by fellow islanders to be the best sort of girl. She is unspoiled by the things most girls visiting the island long for. Her desire is to marry Greyson, her long time intended, and run the family inn. Fate, however unkind, intervenes and Maude is left at the pier to watch in horror as Greyson introduces Maude to Ann, his new wife.
Enter Mr. Frederic Konig, a handsome young man who is a very wealthy industrialist, witnessing the entire scene between Maude, Greyson and Ann. He was taken in by her hurt manner, but even more so by her beauty and grace.
Mr. Konig will be staying at the very smart Grand Hotel, the very best place on the island to find wealthy young women. Frederic, though, is an imposter. He is not who he says he is. He is actually Ben Steffan, a young reporter for the Detroit Post. He was furnished in the finest men's fashions, schooled in the proper etiquette of wealth and, more specifically, on special assignment to expose handsome young dandies who prey on lovely young women of fortune. He can fool the many but in his heart he knows who he is. A man of compassion, he feels like he is playing a game of the Prince and the Pauper. His dress and actions speak the part but his good nature continues to shine through. Mark Twain himself appears at the Grand, a nice touch of poetic license that adds just the right spice for Ben when he needed it.
Maude lives with her widowed father and lively brother Jack. She should be learning to take over the family inn, The Winds of Mackinac, but her father's wishes are adamant: she will not run the inn without the help of a husband. With her wedding plans down the pipe she is determined to prove to her father that she is capable of running the inn. She assumes the role of maid at the Grand Hotel, fooling her father but risking termination by her lack of skills.
Frederic takes an interest in Jack, an incorrigible lad who seems to be everywhere at once with many plans up his sleeve. He and his games are incorrigible. Jack is running so much it is hard to realize that if he slowed down he'd have to deal that old pain that keeps rising to the surface named grief. The Wellings lost their mother the year before and the grief is still hanging around the house like an unsung song.
Maude, her father and uncle Robert all have to come to an understanding of the future of the inn. Wills are meant to make things easier for loved ones left behind but once in a great while, a codicil can change the expectations of everyone. There is more riding on the fate of this will than just a family legacy on the island.
I liked the story. The setting on Mackinac Island lent itself well to the summer people who likely found respite from the city during the heat of the summer. Young women of marriageable age would have enjoyed being pampered at the Grand Hotel. The idea that a paper would set a handsome young reporter on unsuspecting gold diggers was a nice twist. It lured me in like a fisherman with a tall tale. I recommend you add My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island to your summer reading list!
My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island: Maude's Mooring by [Pagels, Carrie Fancett]
Maude Welling is a lovely young woman, considered by fellow islanders to be the best sort of girl. She is unspoiled by the things most girls visiting the island long for. Her desire is to marry Greyson, her long time intended, and run the family inn. Fate, however unkind, intervenes and Maude is left at the pier to watch in horror as Greyson introduces Maude to Ann, his new wife.
Enter Mr. Frederic Konig, a handsome young man who is a very wealthy industrialist, witnessing the entire scene between Maude, Greyson and Ann. He was taken in by her hurt manner, but even more so by her beauty and grace.
Mr. Konig will be staying at the very smart Grand Hotel, the very best place on the island to find wealthy young women. Frederic, though, is an imposter. He is not who he says he is. He is actually Ben Steffan, a young reporter for the Detroit Post. He was furnished in the finest men's fashions, schooled in the proper etiquette of wealth and, more specifically, on special assignment to expose handsome young dandies who prey on lovely young women of fortune. He can fool the many but in his heart he knows who he is. A man of compassion, he feels like he is playing a game of the Prince and the Pauper. His dress and actions speak the part but his good nature continues to shine through. Mark Twain himself appears at the Grand, a nice touch of poetic license that adds just the right spice for Ben when he needed it.
Maude lives with her widowed father and lively brother Jack. She should be learning to take over the family inn, The Winds of Mackinac, but her father's wishes are adamant: she will not run the inn without the help of a husband. With her wedding plans down the pipe she is determined to prove to her father that she is capable of running the inn. She assumes the role of maid at the Grand Hotel, fooling her father but risking termination by her lack of skills.
Frederic takes an interest in Jack, an incorrigible lad who seems to be everywhere at once with many plans up his sleeve. He and his games are incorrigible. Jack is running so much it is hard to realize that if he slowed down he'd have to deal that old pain that keeps rising to the surface named grief. The Wellings lost their mother the year before and the grief is still hanging around the house like an unsung song.
Maude, her father and uncle Robert all have to come to an understanding of the future of the inn. Wills are meant to make things easier for loved ones left behind but once in a great while, a codicil can change the expectations of everyone. There is more riding on the fate of this will than just a family legacy on the island.
I liked the story. The setting on Mackinac Island lent itself well to the summer people who likely found respite from the city during the heat of the summer. Young women of marriageable age would have enjoyed being pampered at the Grand Hotel. The idea that a paper would set a handsome young reporter on unsuspecting gold diggers was a nice twist. It lured me in like a fisherman with a tall tale. I recommend you add My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island to your summer reading list!
July 1, 2017
Mackinac Island, Michigan - 1895
Maude Welling has lived her entire life on the Island as has many of her family members. Her father owns the Winds of Mackinac Inn and family members own numerous businesses on the Island. Since Maude's mother passed away, her father's health has been failing and Maude wants to prove to him that she can take over running the Inn.
Maude had become enamored by a man called Luce Greyson. He has been away for awhile and is returning today. Maude just knows he will be proposing to her. But she is heartbroken to find him returning with a lovely woman who introduces herself as his wife.
Ben Steffan has just arrived on the Island aboard the White Star Line. He is actually a society columnist for the Detroit Post. He is to stay at the luxurious Grand Hotel under the name Frederick Konig, a wealthy industrialist. He will be watching some of the people visiting the island to put together a big story.
When Ben happens to observe Maude’s heartbreak at the loss of Luce, he is taken by her and gets to know her and her family. Maude takes a job as a maid at the Grand Hotel working long hours at a job literally beneath her. Along the way, she meets and helps other young women such as herself. Her friendship with “Frederick” continues to blossom.
There is a rumor that the wealthiest woman in America has taken an “undercover” position on the Island as she observes people and how places are run. Who is this woman and why is she here? After her heartbreak from Luce’s rejection, does she dare open her heart to “Frederick?”
This is a book with lots of different stories all intertwining together. I admit that there were a couple of times that I got a bit confused but was able to finally bring them all together. This is a clean, Christian novel that readers are sure to enjoy.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Maude Welling has lived her entire life on the Island as has many of her family members. Her father owns the Winds of Mackinac Inn and family members own numerous businesses on the Island. Since Maude's mother passed away, her father's health has been failing and Maude wants to prove to him that she can take over running the Inn.
Maude had become enamored by a man called Luce Greyson. He has been away for awhile and is returning today. Maude just knows he will be proposing to her. But she is heartbroken to find him returning with a lovely woman who introduces herself as his wife.
Ben Steffan has just arrived on the Island aboard the White Star Line. He is actually a society columnist for the Detroit Post. He is to stay at the luxurious Grand Hotel under the name Frederick Konig, a wealthy industrialist. He will be watching some of the people visiting the island to put together a big story.
When Ben happens to observe Maude’s heartbreak at the loss of Luce, he is taken by her and gets to know her and her family. Maude takes a job as a maid at the Grand Hotel working long hours at a job literally beneath her. Along the way, she meets and helps other young women such as herself. Her friendship with “Frederick” continues to blossom.
There is a rumor that the wealthiest woman in America has taken an “undercover” position on the Island as she observes people and how places are run. Who is this woman and why is she here? After her heartbreak from Luce’s rejection, does she dare open her heart to “Frederick?”
This is a book with lots of different stories all intertwining together. I admit that there were a couple of times that I got a bit confused but was able to finally bring them all together. This is a clean, Christian novel that readers are sure to enjoy.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews