Claire Laurent's greatest aspiration is to paint something that will bring her acclaim. Yet her father insists she work as a copyist. A forger. When she's forced to flee from New Orleans to Nashville only a year after the War Between the States has ended, her path collides with attorney Sutton Monroe. She considers him a godsend for not turning her in to the authorities. But after he later refuses to come to her aid, Claire fears she's sorely misjudged the man. Finding herself among the elite of Nashville's society, Claire believes her dream to create a lasting impression in the world of art is within reach--but only if her fraudulent past remains hidden.
The Federal Army has destroyed Sutton's home and confiscated his land, and threatens to destroy his family's honor. His determination to reclaim what belongs to him and to right a grievous wrong reveals a truth that may cost him more than he ever imagined--as well as the woman he loves.Set at Nashville's historic Belmont Mansion, a stunning antebellum manor built by Mrs. Adelicia Acklen, A Lasting Impression is a sweeping love story about a nation mending after war, the redemption of those wounded, and the courage of a man and woman to see themselves--and each other--for who they really are.
Tamera Alexander is a best-selling novelist whose deeply drawn characters, thought-provoking plots, and poignant prose resonate with readers. Having lived in Colorado for seventeen years, she and her husband now make their home in Nashville Tennessee, along with their two adult children who live near by. And don't forget Jack, their precious--and precocious--silky terrier.
For more information please visit http://www.tameraalexander.com/
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Read what others are saying about A Lasting Impression here.
My Take:
When I first saw that this book, set at the Belmont Mansion in Nashville, Tennessee, was available to review, I was excited. Having lived in East Tennessee (about 3 hours from Nashville) for 9 years of my life, I was excited to read it and see how a book based on this landmark would be portrayed.
What I found was a historically rich tale that definitely did justice to one of Tennessee's most famous homes.
From the first time Claire enters the Belmont Mansion, the oppulance is apparent and is described so well that you can actually see what you are reading. The characters in this novel are engaging as well, and the pace of the story is mostly on target.
At 426 pages, this one is a long one. I think this is mostly due to the many descriptions of the surroundings and of the characters' actions. The story didn't get bogged down, but, even though I enjoyed the pictures the words painted in my mind, at times the descriptions did get a little long. I also thought the resolution to the story was a tad short, considering the length of the novel.
If you enjoy sweeping Southern sagas, this is one you might want to pick up.
I will give A Lasting Impression ... 4 Bookworms.
About the contest:
Kindle Fire Giveaway and Facebook Party from Tamera Alexander!
While Tamera and her book, A Lasting Impression, are traveling across the country virtually
(with a few international stops as well!), she will be hosting a Kindle Fire Giveaway (11/4 - 11/15) and preparing for a lavish Southern-Style Facebook Party (11/15) (dripping with hospitality, of course). She will be giving away Southern Food Baskets, books, and an array of other fabulous freebies! Don't miss a
minute of the fun. Swoon!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A Brand New Kindle Fire (shipped as soon as it releases)
- A copy of A Lasting Impression and 3 other special books Tamera wants you to have (for Kindle)
much do you know about the 1860's?) and lots of Southern-inspired giveaways (complete listing here).
Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on the 15th!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House/Baker Publishing Group through Litfuse Publicity. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this is accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
I'm browsing through blogs by the Christian Fiction Devourers members and noticed your review. I read this book, also, and really enjoyed it! Plus, you can't beat that gorgeous cover :)
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