Book Review and a "No Spend January,"

"A Lasting Impression," by Tamera Alexander

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.


What a super book, if you love the Southern States, and the history of the mid 1800's, this book is for you.  It takes you back to Nashville in the 1860's, and the attention to detail that the author has put into the book is just superb. Add to that a bit of mystery and intrigue, and a dollop of love and you have a great book.

You just want Claire to succeed, and Sutton makes a very dashing lead character.  Not that this has to do with the actual story by I love that dress the lady is wearing on the front of the book cover.

Stars out of 5 : a very solid 5 I have nothing bad to say about this book, an easy read with a story that hooks you right away.


"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.


Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Carla is having a "No Spend January Challenge," in January.....of course!! She has listed the rules etc., but honestly you do as much or as little as you want.  If you want to join in just pop by her blog and post a comment.  It's a good idea to start the new year.  I have to figure out what my goal will be, although I do know there is one thing I will  do and that is try to eat out of our pantry and freezer for as much of January as I can, as it wants a good clean out!!!

Also only one more sleep and I get this rotten cast off.......... YEAH!!!!!