My Review:Jude Deveraux’s eagerly awaited third novel in her blockbuster Nantucket Brides trilogy continues the spellbinding saga of the Montgomery-Taggerts, set on an island steeped in beauty and unforgettable romance.
Life is anything but perfect for Hallie Hartley, a young physical therapist who has given up nearly everything—even her love life—for her beautiful blonde stepsister, Shelly. Though Shelly’s acting career has never taken off, she has certainly perfected the crocodile tears to get what she wants—which all too often means Hallie’s boyfriends. When Hallie arrives home early from work one fateful day, she makes two startling discoveries that will turn her life upside down: Not only has a mysterious relative left Hallie a house on Nantucket, but Shelly has been trying to steal it. Desperate to put her troubles behind her, Hallie impulsively flies to Nantucket.
New trouble, however, has already settled into Hallie’s guest room in the form of her newest client. Hallie is told that wealthy, young James Taggert has injured his leg in a skiing accident. Assuming that the devastatingly handsome man has led a charmed life, Hallie is surprised by Jamie at every turn throughout his recovery. His attentions draw her out of her shell—but he has a dark secret, and is tormented by nightmares that only her presence can keep at bay. She suspects there’s more to his injury than he’s letting on.
On this gorgeous island rich in history, magic is everywhere, even in Hallie’s own backyard. As Jamie’s relatives arrive for a wedding gala, something wonderfully unusual is in the air. There’s an aura of romance—enhanced by a pair of matchmaking ghosts and a colorful island legend. In their own little corner of the world, Jamie and Hallie unravel the timeless secrets of their own hearts, and a very special story of True Love destined to last forever after.
I love love love books set on Nantucket, especially Elin Hilderbrand's and Nancy Thayer's books. That is initially why I wanted to read this one. I liked Hallie (the MC) a lot but this book (and maybe the series or the author?) seemed super antiquated -- this easily could have been set in the 1970s or 1980s based upon the plot/language, etc. Hallie and Jamie were sweet together but I was definitely not expecting the touch of paranormal (ghosts/haunting) at all -- it wasn't done in a scary way but it was a bit weird. Overall, however, the setting and the unique details of the book made this a fun read.
I would recommend this to fans of contemporary romance. It was a light read and I always love the setting of Nantucket. I also hadn't read the first two books in this series prior to this one so it definitely could be read as a stand-alone.
I love when a setting is done well. I have read a couple set in Nantucket and enjoyed them. The paranormal seems like it might be a little out of place? Great review!
ReplyDeleteYeah, from the sound of this book, the paranormal seems out of place in it.
ReplyDeleteMajanka @ I Heart Reading
The setting sounds lovely but the antiquated writing doesn't really appeal to me in a contemporary novel sadly.
ReplyDeleteGreat review, Eva!
I've only read a couple by Jude Deveraux (and it's been years) but I do remember they were very hit or miss fo rme. One or two I really loved but the other couple not so much. The plots kind of strained believability - and coincidentally it was a kind of magical realism/paranormal thing that seemed so poorly explained. It was weird. I know Deveraux has been around since the 80's so maybe her writing really is stuck in the past.
ReplyDeleteTanya @ Girl Plus Books