The Curiosity Keeper – My Review

As soon as I started this book, I knew I’d made a new friend. I settled into the story with a contented sigh and watched the pages fly by way too quickly. I always enjoy Regency books, but this one I won’t easily forget. Needless to say, I’ve discovered a new favorite author.

There were so many strengths to it, honestly, I don’t know where to begin. The various settings and landscapes, of course, were very colorful. They came alive in every scene, almost as if they were supporting characters to the story themselves. The plot was so intriguing – with well-written hints of suspense and mystery surrounding the missing gem. The story just kept building and surprising me along the way.

Camille was strong and independent, but she has a soft heart in need of safe-keeping. And that’s where Jonathan comes in, quite perfectly I might add. 😉 He is one hero readers will not soon forget. I know I won’t! His kind character complimented Camille’s in so many ways. Their relationship is genuine and develops through many sweet moments and conversations. I couldn’t help but think of Pride & Prejudice, especially of Mr. Darcy, and Jane Eyre while reading through this book. Yet, it was still unique. It had its own story to tell.

If you haven’t read any books by Sarah E. Ladd before, I highly recommend them. You don’t know what you’re missing! 😉 The Curiosity Keeper is definitely a keeper for my bookshelf!

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and the author for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

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ABOUT THE BOOK:

“It is not just a ruby, as you say. It is large as a quail’s egg, still untouched and unpolished. And it is rumored to either bless or curse whoever possesses it.”

Camille Iverness can take care of herself. She’s done so since the day her mother abandoned the family and left Camille to run their shabby curiosity shop. But when a violent betrayal leaves her injured with no place to hide, Camille must allow a mysterious stranger to come to her aid.

Jonathan Gilchrist never wanted to inherit Kettering Hall. As a second son, he was content to work as the village apothecary. But when his brother’s death made him heir just as his father’s foolish decisions put the estate at risk, only the sale of a priceless possession—a ruby called the Bevoy—can save the family from ruin. But the gem has disappeared. And all trails lead to Iverness Curiosity Shop—and the beautiful shop girl who may be the answer to his many questions.

Caught at the intersection of blessings and curses, greed and deceit, these two determined souls must unite to protect what they hold dear. But when a passion that shines far brighter than any gem is ignited, they will have to decide how much they are willing to risk for their future, love, and happiness.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sarah E. Ladd has always loved the Regency period — the clothes, the music, the literature and the art. A college trip to England and Scotland confirmed her interest in the time period and gave her idea of what life would’ve looked like in era. It wasn’t until 2010 that Ladd began writing seriously.  Shortly after, Ladd released the first book in the Whispers on the Moors series. Book one of the series, The Heiress of Winterwood, was the recipient of the 2011 ACFW Genesis Award for historical romance. Ladd also has more than ten years of marketing experience. She is a graduate of Ball State University and holds degrees in public relations and marketing. She lives in Indiana with her husband, daughter, and spunky Golden Retriever. For more info, visit www.sarahladd.com.

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