Book Review: Love In Disguise by Carol Cox

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I have been blessed in winning some book giveaways from some wonderful Christian authors. Now it is time for me to “pay it forward”. So I am doing so with my first official book review and giveaway.

Love In Disguise by Carol Cox

Book Review

Synopsis from GoodReads:

When costume-maker Ellie Moore suddenly finds herself out of a job in the middle of a bleak Chicago winter, she uses her knowledge of theatrical disguise to secure a position as an undercover operative with the Pinkerton Detective Agency. Her assignment: find the culprit behind the theft of silver shipped from the mines near Pickford, Arizona. Disguised as Lavinia Stewart, a middle-aged widow, Ellie begins her investigation. Soon she finds she must also pose as the dazzling young Jessie Monroe, whose vivacious personality encourages people to talk.

Mine owner Steven Pierce is about to lose his business after the theft of several bullion shipments – until hope arrives in the unlikely form of Lavinia Stewart, who offers to invest in Steven’s mine. In his wildest dreams, Steven never expected to be rescued by an inquisitive gray-haired widow… or to fall head over heels for Lavinia’s captivating niece, Jessie. But then the thieves come after both Lavinia and Jessie. Ellie isn’t safe no matter which character she plays! Will she be forced to reveal her true identity before the criminals are caught? What will Steven do when he discovers the woman he loves doesn’t exist?

My review:

I thoroughly enjoyed this story by Carol Cox. What an interesting plot! I found myself having trouble putting this book down because I became so invested in watching Ellie balance playing both Lavinia and Jessie. I knew that she would somehow solve the case but at the same time I wondered how she would do it. Ellie managed to handle the juggling act very well and I was pleased with how the author handled, not only that, but Steven’s reaction to the truth.

What I enjoyed most about this book:

Definitely the plot line of Ellie portraying both characters while trying to solve a mystery and prove herself as a detective at the same time. In fact, I would have liked it even if there was no romance between Ellie and Steven. It was a good enough plot to stand on its own. I also really enjoyed Steven’s reaction to learning the truth. No spoilers here, but suffice it to say that I felt it was well written.

What I liked somewhat about this book:

I am a sucker for a clean romance so I did like the romance between Steven and Ellie, but as I stated before, the story could have been just as interested without it.

When Ellie was introduced at the beginning of the book, I was sure that I wasn’t going to like her. She seemed self-centered and superficial … at first. But I quickly learned that appearances can be deceiving and I enjoyed getting to know her as a thoughtful and compassionate young lady.

What I didn’t like about this book:

This is a Christian Historical Romance, so I always look forward to having an underlying spiritual message within a good storyline. I felt that the message was a little disjointed within the storyline and it just wasn’t as interesting to me as Ellie dealing with the characters she created.

My rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Would I recommend this book to others?

Definitely. Great plot, interesting characters, good historical descriptions and clean romance. I am certainly going to read more by Carol Cox.

Where can I learn more about this author and their books?

Carol Cox, Author Website

Giveaway

Good books are meant to be passed on and so I am passing along my copy of Love In Disguise by Carol Cox. It is a gently read copy in very good condition. To enter the giveaway, just fill out the Rafflecopter form below.  For the mandatory blog post comment, you must answer the question from the Rafflecopter form.  Open to readers with USA mailing addresses only.  No purchase necessary.  Void where prohibited by law.  The winner will be notified via email and will have two weeks to respond back to me with their info.  Good Luck and Thank You for stopping by!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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