My Review
I am glad that I got to read book one before this one (you may see my review of it here), as I think it would have made a confusing stand-alone. As part of a series, though, it tied in well and just continued the story that was begun in book one.
It wasn't a particular favorite of mine and I think I discovered why: I was reading it expecting a mystery book, but the mystery was a little too padded in everyday life and social happenings for my tastes. At times, I felt like the mystery was perhaps too cryptic. I enjoyed it more after the halfway point, as that was when it felt the mystery activity truly appeared (and I realized that's kind of how I felt for book one as well).At the same time, someone who just enjoys a laid-back tale following the various lives of characters would greatly enjoy this book. I think it's the type of book I would enjoy on a rainy day, having no pressure of a deadline by which to read it.
I do really like Madeline. I am a little puzzled with her Christian life because she has so many things mixed up, but she is closer to having them in order in this book than the first. I guess her spiritual walk isn't super prominent, even though it's there. That is one reason I'd like to continue the series: to see what the author does with her.
I did find that Russel seemed to change personalities. I liked him a little better in book one...but then, that too fit his own journey as he was swamped with work in book two.
All in all, Havig's style is unique and a voice I'm not sure I've read elsewhere. I've enjoyed finally reading a couple of her books.
I did find this one quote amazingly amusing:
"Oh, dear me. I’ve become quite the matchmaking romantic. I believe a healthy dose of murder and intrigue will be necessary to set me to rights."
*I received this book from the author and happily gave my review in return*
About the Book
Book: Such a Tease
Author: Chautona Havig
Genre: Christian Fiction/Historical/Mystery
Release Date: March 21, 2017Madeline, with a little assistance, discovers her old adversary is gaining a following in Rockland! Can she expose him for the fraud she's sure he is?
Rockland:1901
In book two of the Meddlin’ Madeline series, Madeline Brown has a new endeavor to occupy her time. But is it to keep her out of the way or a reward for her work in Sweet on You? With the help of her young friends, Madeline discovers her old adversary is gaining a following in Rockland! What’s a girl to do?
However, her new position also gives her opportunities to observe, and what she sees sets more than one new investigation in motion. What does her old suitor, Delbert Jackson, know? Why is Mr. Merton giving important papers to that scoundrel, Vernon Smythe, and whatever happened to poor Abigail Cooper?
Add to these intriguing questions Henry Hardwick’s continued attentions, Edith’s newfound devotion to the temperance movement and Madeline’s determination to find her a more reliable suitor, and strange behavior from her Aunt Louisa and things heat up as summer fades from Rockland.
Unfortunately, her dear friend, Russell, busy with an important project at work, finds himself unable to help keep her out of trouble and away from danger. Is Madeline going too far? Will her meddling get her in serious trouble this time, will it destroy her reputation irreparably, or will she rid Rockland of a scoundrel once and for all?
Click here to purchase your copy.
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away a Reader’s Teaser Package
that includes:
A paperback copy of both Sweet on You and Such a Tease
A “Tea-for-One” teapot
A Tin of loose-leaf tea of your choice (six options available from our local tearoom)
A pound of assorted See’s chocolates
A set of six handmade antique-inspired note cards
A $25 Amazon Gift Card
And, for the teaser… the winner will also receive the exclusive short story (usually reserved for pre-orders) The Fate of Abigail Cooper!! Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/b2b8
About the Author
Author of the Amazon bestselling Aggie, Past Forward, and HearthLand series, Chautona considers herself blessed to live in California’s Mojave Desert with her husband and five of her nine children. When not writing, which she admits isn’t often, Chautona enjoys blogging, paper crafts, sewing, smocking, photo editing, and old (read: before her parents’ time) music.Blog Stops
March 21: Jeanette’s Thoughts
March 22: Bibliophile Reviews
March 22: Captive Dreams Window
March 23: Blogging With Carol
March 23: A Greater Yes
March 24: Carpe Diem
March 24: A Baker’s Perspective
March 25: Reading Is My SuperPower
March 26: Back Porch Reads
March 27: Splashesofjoy
March 28: Christian Bookaholic
March 29: Lots of Helpers
March 29: The Scribbler
March 30: Neverending Stories
March 30: Bigreadersite
March 31: With a Joyful Noise
March 31: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations
April 1: Pause for Tales
April 1: Avid Reader Book Reviews
April 2: Ashley’s Bookshelf
April 2: A Room without Books is Empty
April 3: The perfect beginning
April 3:His Grace is Sufficient
I'm definitely looking forward to reading this book!
ReplyDeleteMy first line is from For the Love of Grace by Kimberly Rae Jordan
“Grace Anderson stared straight ahead at the white wall of a small hospital room.”
Wow! I know my mom and sister would LOVE to read this (there fave time;)!
ReplyDeleteThanks for doing this post!
Looks interesting! :)
ReplyDeleteLooks interesting!:)
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting this review Amanda. I would love to read this book!
ReplyDeleteLove
Ashley
Thank you for a great giveaway. The book looks like a great read.
ReplyDeleteMarilyn
I can't wait to Such A Tease!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the review and insight into making sure to read book one first.
I've not heard of this book or this author, but it sounds really interesting. Of course, I love the fact that the lady on the cover is drinking a cup of tea. :)
ReplyDelete"Such a Tease" sounds really intriguing! I've never heard of it before.
ReplyDeleteCutePolarBear
I really enjoyed this book, especially as a sequel to the first. Of course, I've loved all of Chautona's books that I've read.
ReplyDeleteEXCELLENT review! I felt this way about the first one. :) I love the way you put it into words!
ReplyDeleteMany Blessings, A
Thank you for a lovely review! You actually nailed the point of this series. Each book is intended to build her skills--so we see the birth of a detective rather than someone who knows exactly what she's doing. So it is definitely more relational than mysterious--at first.
ReplyDeleteAnd poor Russell. I felt for him in this book.
I haven't read anything by this author, but it looks really interesting.
ReplyDeleteFrom Sunset in Old Savannah by Mary Ellis:
ReplyDeleteIf ever there was a perfect time for Beth Kirby to get out of town, it was now.
Thank you all for your comments!! I hope you check into the book, cause it was a fun read. :) I'm already anticipating book three. ;)
ReplyDelete@ Chautona - I was very honored to be able to finally read your book. :) I look forward to seeing how Madeline "grows" in her skills.