Even so, I did manage to finish three books during the month. And if I'm being completely honest, one of those was actually a short story, so it wasn't exactly a record-breaking reading month! Still, every book counts, and I enjoyed having a few stories to escape into whenever I could carve out some reading time.
The year 1900 ushers in a new century and the promise of social change, and women rise together toward equality. Yet rules and restrictions remain, especially for women like Alice Butterworth, whose husband has abruptly disappeared. Desperate to make a living for herself and the child she carries, Alice leaves the bitter cold of Chicago far behind, offering sewing lessons at a New Orleans orphanage.
Constance Halstead, a young widow reeling with shock under the threat of her late husband’s gambling debts, has thrown herself into charitable work. Meeting Alice at the orphanage, she offers lodging in exchange for Alice’s help creating a gown for the Leap Year ball of Les Mysterieuses, the first all‑female krewe of Mardi Gras. During Leap Years, women have the rare opportunity to take control in their interactions with men, and upend social convention. Piece by piece, the breathtaking gown takes shape, becoming a symbol of strength for both women, reflecting their progress toward greater independence.
But Constance carries a burden that makes it impossible to feel truly free. Her husband, Benton, whose death remains a dangerous mystery, was deep in debt to the Black Hand, the vicious gangsters who controled New Orleans’ notorious Storyville district. Benton’s death has not satisfied them. And as the Mardi Gras festivities reach their fruition, a secret emerges that will cement the bond between Alice and Constance even as it threatens the lives they’re building . . .
The characters were likable, the romance was sweet, and the small-town setting was as cozy as ever. Sometimes it's nice to read a book that simply entertains, and this one definitely fit the bill. If you're looking for something lighthearted and relaxing to toss in your beach bag this summer, I think this would be a great choice!
Daisy is fed up with being unlucky in love. And since Mayor Kelly declared her beloved flower shop cursed in one of his infamous visions, business has been slow.
Dream Harbor newcomer Elliot has been adjusting to small-town life following his own relationship turmoil. And until now he’s avoided the flower shop at all costs. If the mayor is correct, he doesn’t need any more bad luck in his life.
When he finds himself walking through the door of the Daisy Chain Flower Shop, he doesn’t expect it to be a life-changing moment. But as the petals blossom in the sunlight, might the unluckiest woman in Dream Harbor finally find that love comes when you’re least expecting it?
There's something so satisfying about sitting down with a story and finishing it in one sitting. In a world full of lengthy books and never-ending to-do lists, it's fun to experience a complete story from beginning to end in just a few hours. Lift Me Up was the perfect Saturday morning read—quick, engaging, and easy to get through with a cup of coffee in hand. If you're looking for a short escape that won't require a huge time commitment, this one is worth checking out.
No comments:
Post a Comment