Book Review: Christmas in the Castle Library by Ann Swindell
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What is this book about?
Ellie Sawyer has always felt more comfortable with books than people, which explains why she’s a PhD history student neck deep in research and trying to complete her doctoral dissertation in time to graduate. But the final books she needs are half a world away in the tiny European kingdom of Lethersby, and the only time she can access the secretive Royal Castle Library is during the Christmas holiday.
Ellie is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery that has eluded Lethersby scholars for more than 100 hundred years by figuring out what happened to their long-lost queen, a young royal who disappeared shortly after the outbreak of the First World War. With the help of Mark, a handsome castle staff member who shares her love of history, she might be able to unravel the queen’s story. But Mark is keeping his own secret from her, and what they discover together could change everything for Ellie—and the entire kingdom.
My review:
The romance in this Christmas story was very sweet and I loved Mark’s gentle pursuit of Ellie’s heart. The faith thread was very heavy with lots of scripture quotes, perhaps overly so in some parts, but the journey of Ellie’s true romance with her creator made it interesting. I could not relate to the Ellie’s self-esteem issues which she dwelled on quite a bit. The secondary characters were interesting and I really liked Delphine who has her own story in book two.
What I enjoyed most about this book:
Mark and his gentle pursuit of Ellie
What I didn’t like about this book:
Ellie’s focus on self-esteem issues
Would I recommend this book to others? Possibly. Heavy faith thread, sweet romance, and interesting mystery. This is the first book in the series.
Where can I learn more about this author and their books?
-Loraine Nunley
Christmas in the Castle Library by Ann Swindell (3 1/2 out of 5 stars) #amreading #BookReview Share on XHave you read anything by Ann Swindell? What is your favorite story by her?
