Wednesday, January 20, 2010

On My Nightstand - Whirlwind by Cathy Marie Hake

I'm on a roll with historical romances these days. I couldn't put down Cathy Marie Hake's book, "Whirlwind."

Millicent Fairweather, a woman of genteel breeding fallen on hard times, makes her living as a governess. She charms her the youngsters in her care with her loving ways and innate sense of fun.

When her employer announces he's sending little Audrey and Fiona away to school, she's devastated. She decides to move to America with her sister and brother-in-law. Perhaps a new adventure in the land of opportunity will heal her broken heart.

Daniel Clark, a widower with a toddler, finds himself without adequate help when the child's Nanny abandons them. One of the ship's crew finds Millicent in steerage, and she jumps at the opportunity to make a bit of money.

Baby Arthur attaches himself to her heart in spite of her efforts to guard against hurt. A travel delay, detainment, and tragedy link the two families together in the New World.

Will her boundless energy but lack of organization drive Daniel crazy or will they learn to appreciate each others' strengths? You'll like this satisfying story.

22 comments:

Jessica Nelson said...

There are so many books I want to read! All of hers look fun to me.

Bess said...

Another good review Susan. My list of "book I want" is growing!

Karen Lange said...

Loved this book too! Thanks for posting the review:)
Blessings!

Terri Tiffany said...

I am still learning to love historical romances. But I admit--the picture on the cover is perfect! It draws me in the way it should:)

Jody Hedlund said...

I'm with you on historical romances, Susan! Love, love, love them! Okay, so maybe I'm a bit prejudiced since that's what I write! :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Jess -

I've read four of her books so far and loved them all. They're good adds to your Wish List.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Shmologna -

LOL! That's what happens when you hang out at blogs. At least when you go into a bookstore, you'll know what you want to purchase.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Karen -

Thanks for the thumbs up on this book. I always like it when some of the commenters are familiar with an author's work.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Terri -

The bookcover portrays the character's personality to a "T." I wish I had this woman's energy.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Jody -

I think of all the romance categories historical is my favorite. When it's combined with suspense, you might as well forget conversation.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Kristen said...

Sounds like a fun read! Thanks, Susan!

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Kristen -

You're welcome!

Blessings,
Susan :)

Patti Lacy said...

Sigh. Another tbr.
Thanks for your support of SO MANY!
Patti

www.pattilacy.com/blog

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Patti -

Reading is a joy. I only wish I had more time. :)

Blessings,
Susan

Tana said...

I love the cover. This one sounds like a lot of fun!

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi T. Anne -

I loved how she handled children. The opening hooked me immediately.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Eileen Astels Watson said...

I never used to like historical but now I'm really starting to. Thanks for the review!

Jeanette Levellie said...

Yes! Her boundless energy and lack of organization DO drive Daniel crazy, but they find a way to make their love work.

I haven't read this book but I'm just like this heroine, and we've been married almost 35 years, so...

Sounds like an intriguing read, Susan.

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Eileen -

Suggestion: Within the historical romance genre, you have a broad range of timeframes. You can go to Regency England or the early days of America. The Civil War period (think Gone With the Wind) is another idea.

Perhaps the setting or time period you've read in the past is the problem.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Jen -

LOL! You'll have to read the book to see how it turns out. I'm glad your personal story had a blissful ending. :)

Blessings,
Susan

Jill Kemerer said...

I love history--and the cover of this book!

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Jill -

I've read four of Cathy's books, and each cover fit the story to perfection.

BTW, love your profile pic. The Black-eyed Susan's are my signature flower. :)

Blessings,
Susan