Melanie Dickerson

I enjoyed this creative retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk. The author immediately captures readers’ attention and had them connecting with Louisa and her twelve-year-old sister Margaret as they plotted to derail their uncle’s plans to sell them off to the highest bidder. There were so many interesting side characters, as well as twists and turns I didn’t see coming. I stayed glued to the page awaiting the next turn.

Sir Charles is both a loyal knight and honorable hero. Louisa is so determined to find a means to free her sister that she hasn't considered the dangers she might encounter. She must do more than simply disguise herself as a boy. Sir Charles comes to the rescue. She was grateful to meet him but felt strange trying to act like a boy.

I liked how the cast grew as Sir Charles and Louisa neared their destination. Each encounter added to the plot; some were fun while other encounters made me wonder if this would all end well.

If you’re looking for a thrilling escape filled with knights, giants, and surprises, as well as characters you can relate to and root for, go no further. This book is for you.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/… (more)

I enjoyed this book much more on my reread.

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Writing this review is a struggle because I really don't know what to say about this book. For every thing that I liked, there was something that I was not fond of.
I loved the diversity and how Mulan grows throughout the story but I felt like her interactions with the other characters were scripted. . .a lot.
There was a lot of kissing in this book. I almost skipped to the end of the chapter. The romance was also super quick.
I liked the mentions of all the other books of the series. The family lines are explained in a clear manner but there were spoilers for the previous books of the series.
I can honestly say that I was a bit disappointed with this story, but it was still worth the read.

Personal Rating: 3 Stars
Content Rating: 2.5 Stars
*I received this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own and a positive review was not required.… (more)

I knew there was a reason I DNF'ed the first time I tried to read this.

Celia is a spoiled brat. I'm sorry but that is as nice as I can be. Nearly every thought that she has is a complaint, and she can't see beyond her own nose. She is upset that she has to help take care of her siblings since her 14-year-old sister can't handle taking care of them by herself. I don't know a single 14-year-old who could handle what her sister did for as long as she did. Congrats to the sister.
I know that this book takes place sometime after the Civil War. Probably in the late 1870s or early 1880s yet Celia seems like a 21st century women. Throughout the whole entire store, she keeps on thinking that she can't get married or have a family until after she has established a career for herself. Correct me if I'm wrong, but this is a very modern opinion to have.
I do not understand why Celia and Truett like each other. Celia could never make up her mind and was like a pendulum when it came to Truett. One day she would be flirting and the next ignoring him. This happened for the entire book. I honestly don't know why Truett put up with that behavior. Just move on dude. Find someone who appreciates you.
This is more of a just me thing but I hated how Celia thought of the country and country people. No, we may not have all the sophistication of the city, but that does not make us any less. Celia went on a tirade every single chapter about wanting to be back in the city because the country has nothing to offer.
I was very unhappy with the ending. Truett drops everything important in his life to follow Celia to the city because she can't stand the country.

2 Stars

Content: lynching, gunshot wounds, kissing… (more)

If I'm being honest, this one exceeded my expectations but still was not my favorite by any means.
While I never go into these books expecting masterpieces, I expect that I'll get a quick and easy read that can just take me of whatever I'm worrying about at the moment. This book did just that.
I was not overly fond of the plot with the sister being the villain. To me, it always screams weak and somewhat unbelievable.
The only really big complaint that I have is the cover. If Aubrey is scarred, PLEASE for the love of cheese and crackers make the cover reflect what she looks like.
All in all, fans of Melanie Dickerson will like this one.

3/5

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.… (more)