Product Description
A royal wedding masks the unfolding of Catherine de Medici's murderous plot against the Huguenots. Survival rests with a beautiful young couturiere and a dashing nobleman. Faith in Christ must uphold them, and all who stand alone, to escape the venom of Madame le Serpent. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Not as good as first book
Written on Silk by Linda Lee Chaikin
Zondervan, 2007
347 pages
Historical Fiction; Inspirational
2nd in Trilogy

Summary: Rachelle experiences firsthand the terror against Huguenots and joins with the other members of her family to stop the persecution while seeking romance and standing strong through the grace of God.

Thoughts: I was so confused when I started this. It picks up in a different place and doesn't immediately address any of the questions I had when I finished the first book. It also has a shift in that it is more explicitly religious with many prayers to God in the first sixty pages than in the whole of the first book, in my opinion (I didn't actually count). Chaikin also spends a lot of time stressing the revelations when one actually reads scripture and pressing the corruptions of the Roman Church and how they had disfigured those texts. One problem I had was the emphasis on justification by faith although I think the issue is more faith in salvation solely through Jesus Christ rather than through paying indulgences to corrupt church officials. I consider myself Protestant but I believe faith without works is useless and I did not like that element.

The influence of Spain in persecuting Huguenots is more emphasized in this book and the importance of the colonies is brought out more too. It could have been emphasized more instead of the angst.

I was sad that there was less about the royalty; Catherine Medici is one of the few we follow and even then it is not very much. Because there is less about the royalty, there is more about the other characters such as Andelot and Sebastian who were less prominent in the first book. There also didn't seem to be very much Rachelle although she is ostensibly the main character because it jumps around a lot to follow all of the other characters.

Overall: 3.5/5. Not as good as the first but setting up some interesting threads for the third.

Cover: I love the pink of the fan but I think the style is really ugly even if it's historically accurate.

Not a bad followup but too dark at times.
This was an interesting follow up to Daughter of Silk. Although at times it seemed as though the characters just experienced tragedy after tragedy from the start, with no let up at all. I think the author could have shown how the characters relied on their faith in God without so many endless bad things happening to them. The historical background was very interesting and I liked the continuation of the romance. I guess I'lll see how it all wraps up in the final two books in the series before really judging this book. Hopefully there is at least some resolution of all the plot lines and some happiness in the main characters' lives.

Moving and Well-Told... For the Most Part
Don't let the quintessential run-of-the-mill Christian fiction cover and title fool you - this book is no ordinary "inspirational novel." This is the second in Chaikin's Silk House trilogy, a series written about a young Huguenot woman named Rachelle Macquinet, who lives during the sixteenth century. Never heard of a Huguenot? They were French Protestants who had responded to the Reformation, particularly under the influence of John Calvin from Geneva, by changing their allegiance from Catholicism. They faced much persecution from a Catholic monarchy.

This is the moving, well-told account of one family's struggle to withstand the persecution and intrigue surrounding their life in France. The only reason I don't give the novel five stars is because the grammar is stilted and faulty at times, and the story can get overly complicated with too many subplots, confusing character names, and unfamiliar French words. However, those are minor issues - especially since some of the best fiction works in history are complicated as well. I wholeheartedly recommend this excellent and biblically sound book.

Another great addition to the Silk House series!
Murder, intrigue, betrayal in the palaces of 16th century France. Catherine De Medici, the ruthless queen regent, plots to maintain her power while trying to rid the influence of the Guise brothers who are controlling her son, King Francis II. Rachelle is caught in her path while being the maid of honour to Catherine's daughter, Margo. Linda did an excellent job on the research of the time period and the emotions and the plotting of both the historical characters and fictional characters are well-written and believeable. And now there is an announcement that there are going to be four books in this series. The story is building up...and we need to find out what happens next for Fabien and Rachelle.

A moving portrayal of French History...
I really liked this book, but am now sitting in extreme anticipation for the third book, which doesn't come out till December!! I have to agree somewhat with the other comment. This book does leave you hanging quite a bit, and I would probably also recommend waiting to read this with the third book; however, this series is supposed to have FOUR books, not three, so you might be waiting a while before you're completely satisfied.

With that said, it is no wonder that the plot is built up so much in this book because a lot of things are still going to happen in the next two books.This book really moved me, and helped me appreciate what so many have gone through for freedom to worship as they wish.I also love thecontinuation of the relationship between Fabien and Rachelle, and the addition of James Hudson and Bertrand, though I am a little skeptical of what happens at the end, and sometimes Rachelle's behavior towards Fabien is rather maddening.

Overall, though, I would say this book is thoroughly enjoyable, and I will enjoy rereading the first two books when the others come out.I also haven't minded learning a little French along the way.Linda does better with the French terms in the second book, in not using them quite as much, and using terms that are easier to figure out(because they're very similar to the English terms for the same things).I definitely recommend this book! ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (5)

The best book of the year!
Years ago I read almost all of Linda Lee Chaikin's books, but for some reason haven`t read any for a long time. Really sorry I haven't kept up with her, but will from now on.
"The Spoils of Eden" is book one in Linda Chaikin's newest series The Dawn of Hawaii. I can't wait for the other two.
I just finished reading "The Spoils of Eden" by Linda Lee Chaikin and totally loved it. I really love her style of writing and how at the beginning of her books she always has a list of the characters, a family tree, Hawaiian terms {for this one} and a map of where the story takes place.
I love how the author talks about the beautiful places in Hawaii. She talks about the wonderful flowers, plants, trees etc.. This book also has many parts that really happened in Hawaiian history, with real names of people who have played important roles in this history.

Eden Derrington and her fiancé Rafe Easton have many things going for them, but also have more than their share of problems. Eden, has to decide if she wants to work with her father and his dream of curing leprosy or being with the man that she has loved since a very young age.
"The Spoils of Eden" is full of mystery, love, family problems and many more problems. Something for every one. I highly recommend this book. It will become one of your best loved books. I really, really like this book.

A free copy of this book was provided for me from Moody Publishers for review purposes only. I'm free to review this book any way I like.

Didn't get a tropical vacation this year?
If you long to get away from your everyday life and travel to a lush, tropical, paradise but can't afford it, I urge you to pick up this book! Ms. Chaikin has an amazing talent to weave words in such a way as to make you feel as though you are truly walking the shores of Hawaii, listening to the waves crashing on the white beaches, hearing the exotic birds tweetering all around, smelling the gardenias and other fragrant flowers, and feeling the kiss of wind on your face. Rich in the history of 1891 Hawaii, Ms. Chaikin has also created deep, interesting and believable characters. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the members of the Derrington and Easton families. I fell in love with some and loathed others, all the while cheering for the hero and heroine, Eden and Rafe, to admit their love for one another and ride off into the sunset together. But troubles abound, as well as treachery, greed, and intrigue. My heart broke more than once for Eden and her father as they struggled to find a cure for the Leprosy that stole Eden's mother from them. All together, a moving exotic drama that I guarantee will sweep you away to another place and time and leave you anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!

The Spoils of Eden


Rafe Easton rescued an abandoned baby from certain death on the leper's island in Hawaii. The baby seems to be leprosy free, but the doctors in Honolulu believe that Rafe is playing with danger and must return that baby to the islands immediately.

Eden Derrington has loved Rafe since childhood, but with them going in different directions and being unwilling to give up her dreams to follow his, she reluctantly returns Rafe's ring. Now she is the one chosen to deliver the bad news to Rafe, that he must return the baby boy to the leper's island.

Yet, Eden wants to work alongside her father, trying to find a cure for leprosy. She is willing to risk a life of privilege to work with the forgotten people. Yet, what if she falls victim to the dreaded disease that took her mother? Will Rafe even wait for her while she fulfills her dream?

THE SPOILS OF EDEN is book one in Ms. Chaikin's newest series The Dawn of Hawaii. Ms. Chaikin is certainly talented in prose, painting such a vivid word picture of the setting that the reader can literally see the exactly blue of the sky and know how many clouds floated in sight. The setting is very beautifully portrayed, but as a result it does slow the story down considerably, making it almost drag at times.

Still, Eden is a very believable character, loving and kind, and Rafe also. I felt kind of bad for them putting their dreams together aside so they could pursue their own separate dreams, and I hoped that it would all work out for them. The story is set in a real time period of Hawaii's history, with some very real people appearing as characters in the book. Ms. Chaikin included a directory of who people are, whether they were real or imaginary, and a map of the islands. She also included a glossary of Hawaiian terms.

The Spoils of Eden
For me, my me time is curling up with a good book, something to drink and some popcorn. Being a romantic at heart I love books with a love story -- along came The Spoils of Eden written by Linda Lee Chaikin. The Spoils of Eden is book one in a series entitled, The Dawn of Hawaii Series. The story is set in nineteenth-century Hawaii. Eden, one of the main characters find herself in the middle of making the decison to work with her father's dream of curing leprosy or being with the man that she has loved since childhood.

Broken dreams, shattered happiness and lost dreams is what you will find in The Spoils of Eden. If you are looking for a historical inspiration read you will want to pick up The Spoils of Eden. I found it to be good reading, and I will read the other books in the series.

fine inspirational historical
In 1891, the Hawaiian Board of Health at Kalihi Leper Hospital sends nurse Eden Derrington to the coffee plantation owned by her fiancé Rafe Easton.This is not a social call, as someone informed the Hawaiian Board of Heath that the baby Kip was a resident of the Kalawo leper colony before Rafe found him.Eden is to pick up and bring Kip back to the colony where he will be quarantined as the law forbids the adoption of leper offspring.

Still Rafe wants to adopt Kip and he and his fiancée argue heatedly over the infant and her work involving lepers.They end their engagement and she goes to assists her research scientist father Jerome who at Kalawo runs a clinic while seeking a medical cure for the disease.

Showing moxie by writing about Hawaii after James Michener`s epic, Linda Lee Chaikin's first Dawn of Hawaii saga provides readers with a deep look at the archipelago less than a decade before the kingdom joins the United States.The story line is driven by the lead couple whose disagreement over her work with lepers threatens their relationship.Although the key support cast is never developed beyond thin role representation in conjunction with either of the two prime players, readers will relish this fine inspirational historical.

Harriet Klausner
... Read more

Product Description
Amid the devastation of war, the crusaders face a formidable foe. . . . But their strength of mind and trust in the Almighty give them the perseverance to endure.

Confident in Helena Lysander's safety at his family's castle, Norman warrior Tancred Redwan prepares to travel on to Antioch in search of his Moorish cousin Mosul, assassin of Tancred's brother. But a message from Helena's bodyguard reveals that her entourage was overtaken and she never reached the castle. Held captive by the corrupt Bishop Constantine, Helena now faces marriage to a Moslem prince, arranged months earlier by her scheming aunt Lady Irene Lysander.

As the crusaders race to overtake Moslem-controlled Antioch, Tancred plots Helena's rescue. Betrayal and intrigue precede him, but the obstacles give way to courage, leading Tancred to the most important battle of his life one that will determine his destiny both in honor and in love. Will Tancred triumph over the evil that surrounds him?

A final showdown will decide that fate of a noble warrior, his mortal enemy, and his beloved -.

Customer Reviews (5)

Great Series!
Who doesn't love adventure, history and romance all tied up in one series? Well the Royal Pavilions has it all. An evil villainess, a spunky heroine, a roguish hero, a backstabbing cousin, a warrier priest,and a misguided man who's evil ambitions threaten everyone. Why hasn't this been made into a movie? An very well written series for those romance addicts out there who are sick of well-meaning but sappy Christian Romances. Bring on the adventure!

Wow! A thriller that I couldn't put down!
It was kinda hard finding this book because it is out of print but I purchased it and read it; it was definitely well worth the price and the wait. I loved the first two books in the series and I couldn't wait to find out what happens to Helena and Tancred next. Helena Lysander was on her way to her castle of Hohms where Tancred had believed she would be safe with his adoptive father and her mother. But Helena's bodyguard, Bardas, brought news to Tancred that her entourage was overtaken by her enemy Constantine and she never reached the castle. Tancred plans a daring rescue and succeeds...until Philip Lysander has him captured and sold as a slave. Tancred fights despair and anger as he finds out that Helena, his beloved, was sent to his Moslem cousin Prince Kalid to become his wife. With some help he manages to escape his slave owner and confronts Philip. Tancred then sets out for Antioch and the Castle of Hohms where Helena is held prisoner along with her mother by the evil Bishop Constantine. He finds Helena again only to be overtaken by soldiers of Prince Kalid and was almost killed. Helena desperately saves his life but still is faced with her dilemma of marrying the prince. After nursing Tancred back from the brink of death, they plan together their escape from the city as the crusaders under Prince Bohemond close in. There is also the assassin Mosul who framed Tancred for murder and who is the bodyguard of Prince Kalid. Tancred must confront both men over Helena and prove his innocence. A great story and conclusion of the Royal Pavilions. I will read this series again and again! Please make this rating go up!!! I can't wait to see what Linda Chaikin has for us next!

A wonderful book!
Ihighly recommend this book.I'd give it more stars if I could. I look forward to reading all ofLinda Chaikin's other books!

pretty picture on cover, very poorly written book
The author(?) had a great historical period to work with but her writing skills being nil, the book goes nowhere.Maybe she wrote this book for teenagers(13-14 most)?It never was meant for adults?If you are a historical buff, have decent English, don't buy this book.

Romance, Action, And a little History.It's "GREAT"
The royal Pavilion was one of Linda Chakins best once you read this you will want to read them all! ... Read more

Product Description
A young silk heiress is caught in the dangerous tide of French history during the reign of the evil Queen Mother, Catherine de Medici. Uncovering a diabolical plot, Rachelle joins forces with the handsome rebel Marquis Fabien de Vendome---but will they be in time? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Daughter of Silk (The Silk House #1)
This book arrived speedily and in mint condition.I would recommend this company in the future.

Engaging start
Daughter of Silk by Linda Lee Chaikin
Zondervan, 2006
315 pages
Historical Fiction; Inspirational
1st in Trilogy

Summary: Rachelle is a "daughter of silk," part of a famous couturiere family, who has been assigned to dress Princess Marguerite. While ensnared in court life, she flirts with the dashing Marquis Fabien and struggles to maintain her Huguenot faith in the face of court corruption and Catholic fanatics.

Likes: I may be confused but I thought Rachelle was the main character and she hardly makes an appearance in the last pages. I'm not complaining because they were really gripping and were my favorite part.

The history is fascinating to me. The political struggles of Bourbon, Valois, and Guise, and Protestant vs Catholic are super interesting although not the most clearly delineated in this story. I'm not familiar with this time period so I don't know about the accuracy of everything although it's very interesting so that's good. It's also interesting because Chaikin seems to be Protestant and would thus support the Huguenots but has to walk a tightrope between the extremists of the sides.

Dislikes: I didn't understand the appeal of Fabien who is apparently one of the most sought after men at court; I prefer a man whose appeal isn't so blatant.

I'm not a fan of the portrayal of Catherine de Medici. I feel like it fits in to the history of demonizing powerful women who worked the patriarchal system. I would prefer a more sympathetic depiction.

I didn't like that this did not have the year in which it occurs prominently displayed. It must be about 1558/59. I also don't like the sprinkling of French words: either use all French or all English, please! For example, oncles is consistently used throughout the text instead uncles. This is not necessary and it doesn't add anything to my enjoyment or ease of reading.

And why do they all have to have the same names?! Louis this, Louis that; the relationships and roles of the minor characters were confusing.

Overall: 4/5. I'm excited for the rest of the trilogy, reviews of which are coming.

Cover: I like the cover; that is what first attracted me to the series.

Excellent Book,BUT DON'T READ THIS SERIES!
The first 3 books are really engaging and make you question whether you would have the strength to stand up for your faith in the face of extreme persecution. The plot is engaging, although I fault the editors for not catching obvious errors and typos. Honestly, there were points in the book where i asked myself, "Did ANYONE at Zondervan care enough to read the series and correct obvious typos."

I also liked that the hero and heroine of this series were not your typical Christian romance wimps. I really cared about both of these characters and enjoyed the progression of their story.In addition, the history and interplay betweenthe French Protestants, the French Royal family, and the Spanish inquisition is fascinating.Reading the first 3 books, this series was worthy of 4 stars (5 if the editors had bothered to do their job).However, I would not recommend you read this series.

WHY WOULD I RECOMMEND YOU NOT READ BOOKS THAT I OBVIOUSLY ENJOYED?Because the author does not finish the series/story. Yes, you heard me right.There are only 3 books written in what was to be a 4 part series. The end of Book 3 ends with a huge climax and a promise of Book 4 coming the following year. Like other readers, I rushed to amazon to buy the fourth novel, only to discover that there IS NO BOOK 4 and never will be. I emailed and personally confirmed that there would be no book 4 with the author.Apparently the publisher and author decided not to finish the series, but only after book 3 was written.

I emailed the author, and she told me in 3 sentences the larger plot resolutions that would have occurred if she had finished book 4. While it was nice of her to let me know what would have happened, what a huge let down given the investment of time, money, and energy that I invested in the first 3 books. Imagine if Tolkien had concluded his series with an "if I had written Return of the King, Frodo would have destroying the ring, Arwen and Aragorn wed, and Sauron would have been destroyed." Yep, you would have been ticked too.

I fault Zondervan even more however. I get the distinct impression that Zondervan chose not to pursue a book 4 for financial reasons. While that is their choice, how dare Zondervan mislead it readers by implying that this is a complete series. When these 3 books were purchased, Zondervan sold them as the house of silk trilogy.I personally am appalled that a christian publishing company would sell an incomplete and unfinished series to its readers by false pretenses. Trust me, it does not end with a "they likely lived happily ever after" or any sense of finality.Book 3 ends with question of whether our hero and heroine will escape from the peril they've been facing since the beginning of book 1, and if they do escape, what will become of them and their future.For Zondervan to continue to sell this incomplete series is a betrayal of its reader's trust.At the VERY least, they should publish an ebook concluding the series.

Bottom line: Don't get sucked into this enchanting series. You'll be disappointed and angry when you reach the end of book 3.

The Silk House Series
After reading all three books, i was wanting to dive into Book 4 which has not been written.Chaiken does an unbelievable job of writing historical novels.This series takes place in France when the Protestant reformation is in serious conflict with the Catholic Church.I felt like I had had a collage history class as well as a great read. Chaiken's characters come alive on the written page.

An incredible look into history robed in romance and intrigue
I am a huge fan of Chaikin-- her ability to weave history with fiction in an accurate yet enthralling manner is unmatched.

This series is fabulous.It makes you realize how we take our religious freedome for granted.Set in France during the time of the Hugenots, this series is full of everyting a good novel should be-- murder, intrigue, passion-- learning about a different time and place has never been so enjoyable.

If you want to know what our protestant ancestors went through to allow us to have Bibles in a language we understand then pick up this book.You won't be disappointed.

This book will have your heart racing and palms sweating at times.At others your eyes will well and your heart will fill. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Good experience!
The book's wear was adequately described and the price was fantastic considering this is no longer in print. Thanks!

Delightfully entertaining
In my opinion this is a very fitting sequel to Captive Heart.I couldn't put this one down either.:O)
Things have just gotten fast paced, and the love story between Bruce and Devora is touching in it's simplicity

Pirates, the Inquisition, betrayal, courage.
I liked this book very much.I learned alot about the Spanish Inquistion, how slaves were brutally treated, how a father could make his own son turn against him, and the Spanish way of life.Linda Chaikin's TRADE WINDS are similar to her THE BUCCANEERS series, they are not exactly the same.I'm going to read this book again and again because I believed that Mrs.Chaikin did an excellent job on the research and plot in this book.

Silver Dreams is a great book!!!
When I started reading Captive Heart, the first in the Trade Wind series,I was getting flashbacks to Chaikin's Buccaneers Series. Then as I read therest of it I saw the differences. Don't get me wrong their alike in manyways, but the differences jump at you. In my oppionI think that Lindawanted work with Spain and do things in Trade winds that she couldn't inthe Buccaneers. Well if it works go for it. I for on wasn't disaponted. InSilver Dreams Devora is sent to a Spanish Dons house to marry. But herheart longs for another. Escape is impossible. Will the one she loves findher? Or will she marry the Don? Who knows, maybe she'll do both!! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

My first Chaikin book!!
I decided to give Chaikin a try when I discovered she had some pirate books.But some of the books in the series were so pricey that I decided to try out an inexpensive series to see if it would be worth it... I mean, what if I didn't like her writing style?

Well, turns out that it is bittersweet.I have read the 1st and 2nd and eagerly await the 3rd.Which is very sadly, the last!

This story stars Tancred Redwan, soon to be Count (if he can get his name cleared from his brothers death) escaping from his castle in order to bring his brothers true killer to justice.His father was a Norman count (in Sicily) and his mother was a moor.He, supposedly, is quite dreamy (which is what I expect ALL my romantic heroes to be!).

Helena of the Nobility is a Byzantine lady in search of her mother who, up til recently, she believed was dead.She is involved in the Byzantine intrigue using spies in order to protect herself.Also, she is in love and plans on marrying her cousin (yuck), Philip-- a man with ambition to become emperor.

They share a common relationship:Tancred's godfather, Nicholas, is Helena's beloved uncle.They meet by coincidence, both seeking him among the lines of Norman princes traveling for the crusades.

There are lots of characters and plently of side stories to keep track of.But, while you need to pay attention, it is not distracting or overboard.I am quite interested in this period (thanks to Chaikin) and her wonderful research has saved me great trouble from having to study much more to learn!

It is a wonderfully written saga and even though I think I know who will get the girl in the end of the series, it is well worth the read.The side plots and twists and turns keep the book suspenseful.

I cannot wait to read the last book... I only hope that there is a misplaced manuscript for the 4th so I won't have to say goodbye!! ... Read more

Product Description
She gambled with her husband’s trust. At stake is–everything.

Evy Varley's marriage to Rogan Chantry is all she had hoped it would be–until she finds out that she is pregnant with a honeymoon baby. Fearing that Rogan won’t allow her to travel while she is expecting, Evy plots to keep her pregnancy secret in order to accompany him to South Africa. Her thoughts are not only for her husband, but Evy is determined to travel to Bulawayo, the new mission station of Dr. Jakob van Buren–the one man who can help Evy to finally clear her mother’s name.

After she and Rogan set out to sea, however, Evy discovers that she has gone too far in her deceit, and the damage to her marriage may be irreversible. Matters only worsen in Africa, where malaria, murder, and an African uprising all take their toll–and where Rogan and Evy must fight not only for their love, but also for their very lives. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Today's Embrace
This was book three of the series and I couldn't hardly wait to see how it would end. The story was wonderful and easy to read and I enjoyed the series very much.

Good read, but not the best.
I enjoyed this series a lot, though I admit that it's flawed. This book is rushed at times, while too descriptive at others. It felt forced at times, and it didn't flow as naturally as the first book did. But I did love it--Darinda's storyline especially interested me, and I found myself wishing Linda had written a spin-off about Darinda and Captain Retford. The storyline with Rogan and Evy was refreshing to read...Evy's mistake in being dishonest with her husband is one we all make, though we hardly ever read about. I would definitely recommend this series, though it's not perfect. If you enjoyed this, check out her Egypt trilogy, starting with "Arabian Winds". You won't be disappointed!

Definitely Not One of Ms.Chaikins better.........
Though it's an interesting tale,...I couldn't help but be disappointed. I loved the first two books... and I feel somewhat disappointed in the third. I felt that Rogan and Evy were not the same characters than in the previous two books. Your focus is no longer on Evy and Rogan,.. but on other characters.(Which is a good thing,... but I almost stopped caring as to what happens to Rogan and Evy!) Though it's an interesting mystery and I enjoyed that aspect of it, I can't say it's an equal to Ms.Chaikin's previous works.

A wonderful conclusion to this awesome series!
"Today's Embrace" appropriately titled will grip you until the end of the story. As Rogan and Evy prepare for their trip to South Africa to the land where Evy was born and rescued long ago, they first experience marital bliss in which soon Evy finds herself expecting their first child. Determined to make the trip anyway to Bulawayo with her husband, Evy plots to keep her pregnancy secret so Rogan will let her travel. But while on their journey, Evy realizes her deception have gone way too far and her marriage could be damaged beyond repair. Rogan leaves Evy at her uncle Jakob's mission and sets out on his quest to find Henry's mysterious gold deposit while at the same time trying to dodge his uncle Julien's efforts to stop him. Not only has this book have the mystery and suspense of Rogan's journey, there is the potential uprising by the natives, murder and malaria that threaten both Evy and Rogan's lives. Will they repair their marriage before it's too late? Linda Chaikin did an awesome job with this series which is unlike I ever read by her. I am really looking forward to her next series....

The Perfect Conclusion
This is the perfect conclusion to the East of the Sun trilogy and captures perfectly the very nature of people at their best and particularly, at their worst. After laying a fine foundation in the first book, Tomorrow's Treasure, and pulling the story along in the second book (Yesterday's Promise) with sweeping descriptions of Africa and the diamond business, following Evy and Rogan into what starts out as the perfect marriage is emotive and exciting - what every girl dreams of. To step with them into the small compromises that send them spiralling to the depths of grudges and regret is portrayed in such a realistic way that at times I found myself relating against my will!
Another reader I know likened the ending to a bag of peas with a hole in it that had been spilling out peas one by one, until finally the bag gave way and everything tumbled out in a stunning conclusion, leaving the reader both shocked and greatly satisfied.
If you make it this far, you will NOT be sorry. I give this book 5 stars, and highly recommend it. Although we experience some of the facets Linda Chaikin has used several times, such as slave uprisings and mission stations, it's completely unlike any other book this author has ever brought her readers. Snap it up today and kick back as the ride takes full force. ... Read more

Product Description
Lions of the Desert opens up in 1915, over a year after the conclusion of Arabian Winds. Nurse Allison Wescott arrives in busy Cairo to serve the British military confronting Kaiser's Germany and their ally, Turkey. In Cairo, Allison meets Major Bret Holden again after his return from London, and their previous romantic but rocky relationship is resumed. But the man she has been thinking of marrying has also arrived to serve as a chaplain with historical Oswald Chambers, who is ministering to British and Australian troops. In the dark and trying times of world war, Allison most come to grips with her divided heart and make a choice that she will live with for the rest of her life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

This Is as far as I will go with this series!
Lions Of The Desert was a very tense and difficult book to read,because of the graphic war scenes and reading about the field hospital's retreat was absolutely harrowing!
There are many characters in this story which are hard to keep track of,and lots of espionage and mystery,which is exciting,however, I stated in my review of the first book that I will not continue reading a series if the romance aspect has the hero and heroine continually separated,as this one does. I do not believe that such a couple has enough time together to truly get to know each other and feel that the physical attraction(lust)is all they have going for them,and do not like to see such couples marry,as that is a poor basis for marriage and seldom lasts for long. Plus in this case Bret is another hero that I really could not fall for.He is waaay too arrogant,and gave nothing of himself to Allison so that she could be confident of his feelings,so instead she felt like a fool,for her feelings!

I made the mistake of reading the synopsis for book 3 Valiant Hearts and see it is more of the same,so I am stopping right here!

For those who love ANGST filled romances and war/adventure stories,this series would be a good read.

Boring
Well I didn't think that this book was very interesting. It didn't hold my attention like I thought it should. Sometimes it went on and on about, what I thought, was useless information. It probably is just my taste in books that has made me not like this book so I'm sure I won't read any more of Linda Chaikin's books.

Another amazing book by Linda Chaikin!
This is the second book in Linda Chaikin's Egypt series, and it's almost as good as the first book. Allison's story continues in this book, with a new tale of murder, suspense, and espionage, while continuing the love story between Allison and Bret. As I stated in my review of "Arabian Winds", the chemistry between these two characters is impeccable--you can almost see it! And once again, the plot in this book will have you up all night...you simply can't wait to find out what happens! A definite must-read for any Christian romance fans, as well as Christian fiction and mystery fans.

If you're new to this series, make sure to read "Arabian Winds" first (it's book #1). This one is book #2, and "Valiant Hearts" is the third and final book in this exhilirating and captivating series.

One of the best ever written by Linda Chaikin!
Wow! What can I say? This book is full of adventure, romance and intrigue during one of the worst times in the world's history. Allison Wescott is serving in a field hospital trying to get Major Bret Holden out of her mind and focus on her duties a year later after the events of 1914. Wade Findlay arrives as a medical intern and Allison decides to join him in treating wounded British soldiers near Baghdad. She was totally unprepared for Bret's reappearance in her life and the feelings that came along with him. After a tragedy near Baghdad, Allison goes home on medical leave. Little did she know that she will stumble once again into espionage and murder. Allison and Bret must find the murderer and the Egyptian treasure that everyone seems to want. A great story about finding love in uncertain times, faith in the Lord and courage. I heartily recommend this for a great exciting read!

One of the Best
One of the best books I've ever read,(and I've read a lot of Christianfiction).Chaikin does a great job of keeping you guessing.This book isfull of action, suspense, and romance.It would make a great movieactually. The war scenes at the beginning are drawn out a bit long, but thesuspense at Sarah Blaine's house more than makes up for it. After Book 1, Ithought the second book would have to be of lesser quality, but I waswrong.Book 2 was even better!Now I can hardly wait to read #3. Thisbook is a must read. ... Read more

Product Description
Two worlds clash as a young English heiress and an orphaned boy, an "untouchable," become inextricably entwined,

Coral Kendall is an heiress to the Kingscote Silk Plantation in northern India in the last decade of the 1700s. Breaching cultural boundaries and shunning the scorn of her wealthy English family, she adopts a young orphaned boy, an "Untouchable" from the bottom of the Hindu class system, and brings him into her home. Despite their contrasting cultures and backgrounds, the bond of love that develops between Coral and Gem is that of a mother and son. But tragedy strikes when the boy is abducted and the body later found in the river.

Was there a reason to believe that Gem did not perish? Was the boy's true identity what she had been led to believe? How could she discover the truth?

One man may hold the key to her son. Can she discover the truth and win the struggle for the seagoing trader's heart?

A fascinating new historical series from the time of William Carey.

Customer Reviews (13)

If You're Looking for Historical Accuracy. . .Keep Going.
Well, this was a painful book to read.Inaccurate,slow, predictable, and preachy, I have no interest in reading the second, let alone the third, book in the series.The entire concept of a young, British woman in 1793 Bengal adopting an Untouchable boy seems ridiculous and casts a gloom over the whole book.I would be interested to see how Coral fares when the academia shifts, in the early 19th century, from Orientalism, and a focus on the connection between Indian and English culture, to Anglicism, where British culture is superior and Indian culture not worth spending academic time on, and her quest to learn Hindi is shot down by those who feel women shouldn't learn and those who feel Hindi is not a valuable language to learn.Hindi, incidentally, is spoken by a minority in Bengal, and apparently Jemani learned it whilst in Rajastan.Most natives in the area speak Bengali.I found the idea of Kathleen becoming a gown designer preposterous, particularly in such a high-class, wealthy family, as well as the grandmother's support of her granddaughter's "career".Additionally, Chaikin fudged on some historical detail, throwing out names like Macaulay and Cowper to try and give the novel an overall sense of accuracy.However, she misplaces Rajputs, claiming they are one of the four main castes.They are not.The four Varna are brahmins, ksatriyas, vaishyas, and sudras -- Untouchables (or Dalits, as they prefer to be called nowadays) are beyond the pale.Rajputs are a jati, which fits inside the warrior caste of ksatriyas.Also, the maharaja Michael and Jace were going to buy their land from was most likely a figurehead, and the British are the real ones running the government.Aside from the glaring historical inaccuracies and the preachiness of many of the passages (which, upon picking up the book I expected and knew about before reading it), the book failed to hold my attention, made me long for the Mahabharata or the Ramayana instead, and worried me that those who read it will get strange and incorrect ideas about early colonial India, like the absurd notion of throwing children to crocodiles or the incredibly large amount of Hindus in mainly Muslim Bengal (now modern-day Bangladesh, where Muslims constitute almost 90% of the population).Maybe in addition to this book, they should pick up a nice, peer-reviewed history of India from 1500 to 1947.I suggest Metcalf and Metcalf's "A Concise History of Modern India," available in any Barnes & Noble or Borders, as well as online on Amazon.com.

Exciting and enjoyable series
This is a wonderful, exciting series full of romance, suspense, and adventure. Linda Chaikin's creative talent still surprises me, and I loved the story of Coral, Jace, and Gem. I finished the book in two sittings...I couldn't put it down! The book is far from perfect, however, and you can tell that this series came near the beginning of Linda Chaikin's writing career. Her formula of mystery and suspense with accurate historical facts is perfected with her Egypt series ("Arabian Winds", "Lions of the Desert", and "Valiant Hearts"). Her "Heart of India" series has many plot-holes, and the story can become too confusing at times. It's hard to remember all of the names, and I found myself looking back through the book, trying to remember which character is good and which character is evil.

The second book, "Under Eastern Stars", is my favorite in this series, so if you're slightly disappointed in "Silk", read on. It gets better (in my opinion). I would definitely recommend this series to any fans of Christian fiction, romance, mystery, and historical fiction.

Wow! I think this is one of Linda Chaikin's best!!!
What can I say? This book is great! Linda Chaikin takes us to 1700s British India to a silk plantation of a wealthy British family: The Kendalls. Coral Kendall is one of the daughters of the plantation's owner: Hampton Kendall. Coral Kendall adopts a Hindu child, an untouchable, against the wishes of her uncle and the dashing, handsome officer Jace Buckley. A terrifying incident results in the kidnapping of Gem and the child's body that was found in the river. Coral is certain that the child that was found in the river is not Gem and she's determined to find him and bring him home. The book gets kind of slowtowards the middle but you must read on!!! Romance, intrigue, danger surrounds everyone in the book. I believe this is one Linda Chaikin's best works!

A wonderful read
This book is a wonderful, wonderful read. I simply could not put it down, and it ranked up there under my top 5. I simply can NOT wait to purchase the next two books in the series and begin devouring them as well!

Maybe slow to start, but...
I would have to admit that it took me a while to get into this book.It does have some slow spots, and yes, it does leave you with a cliffhanger... however,it is so worth it once you get to books two and three.I finished the second book in a day, and was already halfway through the next book the second day.This is the first time I have read any of Linda Chaikin's books, but I am definitely looking forward to starting another series. ... Read more

Product Description
Clothed with the promise of salvation, the knights of the first crusade fight gallantly to reclaim the Holy Land-but only their courage can save them from the infidels.

Helena of the Nobility has long resigned herself to the control of her aunt Lady Irene, a woman for whom betrayal is commonplace. Having banished Helen's mother from Constantinople, Irene stalks the palace courtyard while Helena secretly plots her escape. Determined to dissolve any thoughts of a union between Helena and her son Philip, Irene is now intent on securing Helen's hand in marriage to a Muslim prince.

Helpless to elude the powerful Lysander family, Helena turns to one man she believes loves her enough to prevent her demise. But Philip Lysander is no match for the cunning temptations Irene plants in his path. Betrayed and heartbroken, Helena has no other choice but to turn to the rebel Tancred Redwan, a man in whose heart she fears and in whose honor she finds safety.

When war and treachery threaten to tear them apart, only his sword offers a way of escape-

Customer Reviews (5)

young adult
This book arrived quickly and it was in a very good condition. My 14 year old son is reading it now.

AWESOME!!!!!
Though the entire series is great.... I have to say that Golden palaces is definitely my absolute favorite. I think I have read it more than 3 times! It's exciting and the chemistry between Tancred and Helena is neat to see. YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK! The Byzantine era is rarely wrote about if ever, by christian authors. But... it's an extremely facinating time in history and Linda Chaikin portrays it beautifully. The crusades, early Christianity, and Byzantine intrigue are all components of this great book. and don't forget unforgettable characters! Obviously Tancred is a hunk. I can only hope there's some like him still around. probably not, but I can dream right? You'll definitely enjoy this book, series, and author. GREAT book!

Exciting and a wonderful read!
"Golden Palaces" (sequel to "Swords and Scimitars")is a book that won't disappoint you! This is historical fiction at its best! Tancred Jehan Redwan is in 1097 Constantinople amid the crusaders whose aim is to take Jerusalem from the Seljuk Turks. Tancred's heart is not in the crusade but he finds himself caught up in it despite his will and also gets involved with Helena Lysander, the beautiful Daughter of the Purple Belt who is being given in marriage to a Moslem prince another cousin of his. Tancred also searches for the assassin who killed his brother Derek. Helena is searching for her mother Adrianna who was banished from Constantinople by her aunt Irene and is believed to be in Jerusalem. She turns to the man she has wanted to marry for so long but Philip Lysander sees his opportunity to become emperor and sacrifices Helena for it. Helena then has no choice but to turn to Tancred who is the only one who could help her find her mother and elude the marriage. Will Tancred and Helena be able to evade her aunt's plots and schemes? Nicholas Lysander, Helena's maverick bishop-warrior uncle and godfather of Tancred entrusts Helena to Tancred's care. He had once loved Irene before she turned corrupted and was banished himself from Constantinople. Informed by his niece that Adrianna is still alive and possibly held captive by a sultan, he returns to Constantinople in the company of Bohemond's crusaders and confronts his past with Irene and his sworn enemy,the corrupted bishop,Constantine. This a great plot that moves smoothly along and never gets boring. You must read this book yourself if you do not understand my review! I strongly recommend this book for an thrilling and enjoyable read!

EXCELLENT!
The most romantic Christian Fiction I've ever read. Please don't pass this one by!

An Excellent book!
It is a good read that you won't want to put down. After you figure out all the characters you will enjoy this book.You will follow Helena and Tancred as they search for true love.I can't wait to read the next one! ... Read more

Product Description
Raised by her aunt and uncle at the rectory in the small English village of Grimston Way, lovely Evy Varley remembers little of her missionary parents and nothing of South Africa, the land where she was orphaned during the Zulu War of 1878. But when Sir Rogan Chantry, the arrogant and handsome son of the local Squire, accuses Evy’s mother of stealing the infamous Kimberly Black Diamond, Evy sets out to prove the rogue wrong and clear her mother’s name.

Secrets abound, however, from the diamond mines of South Africa to the halls of her own beloved rectory. Strangers come to Grimston Way for their own mysterious purposes, a stunned Evy finds that her own aunt and uncle may have concealed disturbing truths about her family, and the dashing Sir Rogan has his own reasons to seek the missing diamond.

Yet despite Rogan’s seemingly rakish ways and the class differences that render a romance between them impossible, Evy finds herself drawn to the man who was once her childhood friend and now holds the keys to her heart. Faced with a dangerous past and an uncertain future, Evy must draw upon her wits and her faith to pursue Tomorrow’s Treasure.

A story of faith, danger and romance, Tomorrow’s Treasure is a masterpiece of historical suspense fiction. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

A keeper
I don't often reread books, but I've read this series several times now. This series is definitely worth getting.The first one is my favorite because of the developing relationship between Evy and Rogan, but I enjoyed seeing what happens to them after this first book is finished.I would have been terribly disappointed if the story had ended after Tomorrow's Treasure because I became so involved with the characters.

I enjoy Mrs. Chaikin's characters in all her books, but especially this one and the Arabian series.When I read a book, I have to like the characters or else the whole story would be simply boring or annoying.Evy Varley is a girl with virtue and integrity and compassion,something that I think is usually soundervalued.Even though she is attracted to Rogan, she doesn't compromise her faith, act silly or allow him to put in her in compromising situations.Even though he tries to tempt her, he also respects her for living out her faith and it is eventually what he falls in love with.He recognizes that her faith is what sets her apart and gives her confidence.

There is also fascinating plotline about Evy's parentage and Rogan's search for gold in African and the Black Diamond.

Coming of age book gets 5 stars
Tomorrow's Treasure, by Linda Lee Chaikin is a great read if you are looking for romance, courage and a leading heroine with spunk. The main character in the book is Evy Varley, who is the daughter of missionaries, and the story is about how she found out the truth regarding her blood line.
The story begins with Evy as an infant and her birth mother loses her, through a series of planned events, to Dr. Clyde and Junia Varley, missionaries in Africa in 1879. There is mystique surrounding diamond mines, a famous diamond that goes missing and a bait and switch, along with a politically prompted massacre, that lands Evy out of the hands of her foster parents (the Varleys) and on a ship bound for England to the sister of Junia Varley, after the Varleys and her birth mother are savagely murdered.
Evy's story then begins again in England, where she is taken to live with her Aunt Grace and Uncle Edmond (Junia's sister and brother-in-law), and she lives quietly in a small town, associated with the vicarage. Evy's life is constantly crossing paths with the local gentry, Rogan Chantry and his clan, and the docile local chap Derwent (son of a vicar), who all compete for her attention.
Through a serious of fortunate and unfortunate events, Evy pieces together the puzzle of her heritage and comes to fall for one of the locals, planning that one day they might marry and live happily ever after. The reader is taken through Evy's life to womanhood, and experiences her trials and friendships, suffers her sorrows and loss, as well as rejoices in her triumphs.
This book is exciting from beginning to end. The ending is somewhat predictable, but it leaves the reader with a successful resolution to an interesting coming of age story.

Excellent story; so-so writing
This was the first book by Linda Lee Chaikin that I ever read and I must admit that I very nearly stopped reading it after just a few pages. Ms. Chaikin has a tendency to introduce many characters all at once, without giving any information on their background or how they are related to the other characters. Throughout the first couple of chapters, I really felt like I was reading a soap-opera. It wasn't until halfway through the book (or later) that some of the relationships were fully explained. That could have been done when they were introduced without detracting from the story whatsoever, and it would have allowed me to enjoy the story more thoroughly without constantly flipping pages back to figure out how a certain character was related to another.

Perhaps even more frustrating were several grammar and spelling errors that I cannot solely blame on Ms. Chaikin. Surely, every book that is published passes through several people's hands before it ever reaches a bookshelf. Whoever proofreads her books does not do their job, however, because these spelling and grammar errors are present in every book by Ms. Chaikin that I have read.

Criticisms of writing technique aside, Ms. Chaikin has a gift for weaving stories. This is the type of book that once you start reading it, you will not want to put it down. It is an excellent story involving a very loveable young lady who falls in love with a man that seems to be out of her league. I would recommend that you also get the other two books in the series, as they continue the main story line.

If you can muddle through the writing technique and often soap-opera like familial associations, then you will truly enjoy the story.

Good book!!
I wish I could give it 4.5 stars! I think 5 stars should be preserved for my absolute favorite books, although this was good, I still like some others a little better.
I really liked this book, although I think it is a bit frustrating at times; the main character is sometimes too much like a door mat!Besides the door mat thing, I liked the characters and how the story ends!I liked the plot and the storyline too. I can't wait to see the next book, I want to see what happens next!!Good job Linda!

Great start to a great series!
What a refreshing series! Once again, Linda Chaikin delivers a tale of romance, intrigue, murder, and fascinating history...she's so unique in the Christian romance world. Although this book is slower in its pacing than her Egypt trilogy ("Arabian Winds", etc.), I was interested at all times because of the wonderful interactions between Rogan and Evy. The relationship between the two was perfectly paced and wonderfully written. The plot was interesting as well...I grew up in Africa, so I was eager to read all the fascinating facts about the history of South Africa. I'm just getting started with Linda's books, and I can't wait! ... Read more

Product Description
Royal French Court intrigue surrounds a beautiful young couturiere and her dashing nobleman-husband as Queen Mother Catherine de Medici unfolds her devious scheme to preserve her reign.Rachelle Macquinet, couturiere from one of France's most celebrated silk-making families, is under palace arrest at Fontainebleau. While creating a royal gown, she is ensnared, along with her husband, Marquis Fabien de Vendome, in the Queen Mother's secret murderous scheme.Fabien has returned from a venture against Spain to claim Rachelle as his bride, but not without a price: the Queen Mother plans to implicate him in an assassination!Fabien and Rachelle are caught in history's deadly swirl and love's uncertainties as they seek to escape to the safety of England. Faith in Christ must uphold them in a time of great persecution that demands greater courage. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Rachelle and Fabien are drips
Threads of Silk by Linda Lee Chaikin
Zondervan, 2008
316 pages
Historical Fiction; Inspirational
3rd in Trilogy

Summary: Rachelle and Fabien continue their romance in the face of Catherine Medici's plots and amidst impending religious civil war. Their families are in danger and they are in deep danger due to their beliefs and positions relative to the throne. With their deep faith, they must try to make it through alive.

Thoughts: This book starts rather thrillingly with suspense as Rachelle and Fabien try to stay ahead of Catherine Medici and her plots.

I guess my biggest problem with the book is that the protagonists sucked while the villains didn't seem that bad. Rachelle is a drip to me and I kept imagining Fabien as speaking English in an exaggerated French accent rather than speaking French which has been translated for my benefit in to English. This makes him seem skeevy. Andelot just seems like a total loser. In contrast Catherine Medici is portrayed in a relentlessly bad light while I find her travails interesting. I mean, she's a foreign queen with a dead husband who was always more devoted to his mistress than to her and children who probably wouldn't look after her and are weak anyway. What would she do if she wasn't Queen Regent? Probably be stuck to wither away in the country or be sent back to Italy, which was no longer home. I'm very sympathetic to her and that weakens the book for me. In fact every time, the main characters talk about how awful she is, I like her more. Maurice is also positioned as a villain but I usually found him rather hapless and more of a stock character than a person with real motives and feelings so he was neutralized. Luckily the Guises are quite villainous; they're probably one of the few sets of characters where I agreed with the author's writing.

I really liked that they included the glossary of terms at the end instead of the beginning like in the other books because I find it easier to access that way. I also found the language even more flowery than in the previous books but it's probably at about the same level as them.

Note: At the end, it says there is a fourth book coming in 2008. As far as I can tell, that never happened which makes the ending of this book very unsatisfactory for those who like closure. Luckily I can share that Catherine Medici lived another 29 years (to 1589) meaning that she had plenty of time for scheming.

Overall: 3.5/5 Overall I'm glad I read this because I've been wanting to read the trilogy for a while but it wasn't fantastic; I'm not sure I would have read all of them if I hadn't checked them out of the library at the same time.

Cover: I love the blue-I think this was my favorite and was the book that first caught my eye.

Silk House Series
The Silk House Series is among my favourites. I found it beautifully written and very riveting. I couldn't put it down. I've been anxiously awaiting the 4th book for so long, I've sort of given up that it will ever come out. I thought the plot was intense with its constantly mounting danger and intrigue. I was never disappointed by the action or the climaxes of the novels -- quite the reverse. The character development was superb. If you enjoy history, language, and great characters, I would highly recommend these books!

little slow
Threads of Silk reads a little too slow for me.Definitely not a page turner.It was very hard for me to even finish the book.

Riveting sequel to Written on Silk!
"Threads of Silk" is a continuation of Rachelle and Fabien's story as they seek escape to London, England; away from Catherine de Medici's schemes to use them for her purpose of having her chief enemy, Duc de Guise assassinated. A man whom Fabien has recently found to be responsible for the death of his father. Before Catherine could use Rachelle as bait for Fabien while he is at sea, Fabien rushes back to claim Rachelle as his wife. That quickly turns into a fight between Fabien and his cousin Maurice who had eyes for Rachelle and had begged Catherine to allow him to marry her. Fabien and Rachelle are then held under palace arrest while Fabien carries out his duties to the Queen Mother. Rachelle is coerced into her duties as the courtriere to the princess Margo, designing her wardrobe.

I love how Linda weaves the historical characters in with the fictional characters in her story line. It is very obvious she has researched the characteristics of the historical figures as well as developing her fictional characters. Linda has portrayed the events of France in the throes of Civil war well. Now I believe that this series is a triology instead of having another sequel to the series a fact that I found to be vexing considering that there were a lot of potential for continuing Rachelle and Fabien's story and that it was printed that there would be a fourth. All in all a series that I thoroughly enjoyed!

Anticlimactic, piddling plot
Threads of Silk is better than its predecessor, Written on Silk, but not by much.There still seems to be an awful lot that is being left for Book 4.Rachelle and Fabian get to play house for a little while as husband and wife but most of their time is spent under house arrest of the Queen.There are some murmurings of subplots of little or no action.There is a brief duel fairly early on between Maurice and Fabian but even that is over with quickly.

As was true with Written on Silk there is so much potential. But it is mostly just an upward slope, building to a great climax that never comes. (This was originally supposed to be a trilogy that is now a series of four but there is a lot of action and resolution that still needs to happen.) That being said, the plot is still aggravatingly slow-paced.At least there is more going on but still not enough action to keep you riveted to the page.I had to force myself to keep reading, but found that I was skimming a lot. There is still no real hope that things will work out- Catherine de Medici holds too much control and you know that something bad is coming.There is still no real climax- no "ultimate battle", if you will, between Catherine de Medici and the Huguenots (or just the Macquinets, Fabian). I'm assuming this action is being saved for the last book.A lot is being saved for the last book...

This installment was a disappointment. Ms. Chaikin should have left the series as a trilogy and made the second and third book stronger plot-wise and with more action to keep you interested.These two books in the middle just keep piddling along with not much reward for your reading.After reading all that's happened so far, you want some resolution. We do get to see some happiness for Rachelle and Fabian but there right under the Queen's thumb.They act like that's not that big of an issue but they should be well aware of what she is capable of.Yet they still act like everything's fine and dandy- which is very naïve to say the least.Too trusting towards someone who is definitely not to be trusted.I'm curious to see how Ms. Chaikin wraps up the story.But I have a feeling the next book won't be worth keeping, either. I haven't been impressed lately with her writing (Midwife of St. Petersburg was also a waste of time with not much of a plot).If you're interested in her writing, I'd suggest starting with her earlier works where the writing is stronger.
... Read more

Product Description
In the tumult surrounding Hawaii's struggle with her monarchy, one woman is determined to bring God's love to a hurting people.

Customer Reviews (11)

Research on the Second book
I loved this book when it first came out, and have been waiting for book two, I went to Linda's website and here is her answer... Q: Isthere is a book 2 that follows, "For Whom the Stars Shine?"
A: "For Whom the Stars Shine" is a stand alone novel for which the publisher decided not to continue it into a series. I think that was unfortunate since this book was later nominated for the Christy Award.

Awesome again!
This was an excellent book as usual by Linda Chalkin. I've been waiting for the second one ever since this one came out 2 years ago.

For Whom the Stars Shine--Great Book!
This is a great book.Very interesting and well written.Get one for yourself I am sure you will enjoy it.

When is Linda going to write the 2nd book?!?
This book was great.However, it has been two years since this book was published.Okay Linda, when will we see Book 2?

You will love this book!!
Linda Chaikin has a way with words and making characters seem real. I love this book and if you want it all get this book! You will not regret it! Can't wait for the next one! ... Read more

Product Description
Award-winning novelist Linda Chaikin brings her series to a rousing conclusion in the fast-paced trilogy with a grand finale complete with sword fighting, sea battles, and the quest for silver. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Awesome Product
The entire series is one of the best Christian series that I have had the pleasure of reading!I catch something new everytime I read it!

You would want to read this masterpiece!
This 3rd book in the TRADE WINDS series is sure to knock you off your feet! Devora Ashby is eagerly awaiting her upcoming wedding to the handsome Spanish/English buccaneer Bruce (Nicklas) Valentin. But treachery awaits them both as betrayal becomes a factor in this story. Bruce faces confrontation and the test of his faith as he tries to fulfill his plans for Devora, his crewmen and the treasure. Devora faces her mother's declining health and unwanted advances of Bruce's father, Maximus. Will Devora forgive her mother for abandoning her when she was a child? Will they ever escape to Barbados and can Bruce elude the inquistors? Will Bruce and Maximus ever make peace between them? A great story about love, forgiveness, pirate battles, swordfights and passion. Linda Chaikin did an excellent job on this series and I can't wait to see what's coming up next on her agenda!

Superb!
As time draws near, the noose tightens, etc, etc, etc, anyways Bruce aka Nicklas realizes his brother is clearly onto him and his fatherly will also soon find out his secret, so he decides to try and sneak out while Devoragoes ahead of him on another ship, but before he can quite get out ofharbor the cannons are drawn on him and his ship sinks, and of cource hisfather finds him out.

After being forced into hard labor, Bruce stillpatronizes his father and still seeks his revenge, though in a more silentway.

But with revenge comes a new understanding that revenge isbittersweet and doesn't always have the desired affect.

Linda ends herTrade Winds trilogy with dynamic gusto and flair.As good as all the other2 books were, what with the first meeting, and then the recognization, Ifelt that the conclusion of the trilogy was the best!

Devora and Bruce are finally together.
The romance, faith, bravery and nobility that only knowing Christ can give is shown wonderfully in this book. You won't be able to put it down and it will challange you to live to your true potential reguardless of the cost.Great book and series!!!! ... Read more

Product Description
Emerald Harwick finds herself caught in two skirmishes: a brutal pirate war over buried treasure, and a tumutuous battle for the heart of the man she loves. A romance to intrigue yu. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Questions unanswered
This was the third and final book of the series.It was interesting, but I felt the author left the reader hanging at the end of the book.There were to many unresolved questions.I also felt that the author reiterated character definitions more than necessary.There needed to be at least one more book in the series.

Who Doesn't Love a Good Pirate Story?
I really loved Port Royal, so I couldn't wait to get The Pirate and His Lady. The pacing was really intense, but the love story is so beautiful. The last chapter is worth reading the book for!

Greatsequel, and very intense!
Though the first book in this series, "Port Royal", is my favorite of the three, the second book is almost as good, and the last few chapters are extremely intense.

Emerald and Baret's story continues, and at last, the time has come for Baret to confront his feelings for Emerald. The love story here will take your breath away, and the misunderstandings between Emerald and Baret in the last fourth of the novel will make you want to throw the book across the room!

Though the third novel is slightly disappointing (in terms of how brief it is compared to the other two), this is a great series, and one of Linda Chaikin's best.

The Pirate And His Lady is Amazing!
Emerald Harwick finds herself in danger on the high seas. In the midst of war on the Jamaican seas, she finds her Christian Faith and loyalty are tested to the limit. Pirates, Buccaneers and Rulers of the world are beautifully intertwined in this story of danger, love, and the search for truth.
There are few good, Christian authors around, But Linda Chaikin would be one of those few. This book was simply heartstopping! i cried, i laughed, and even got frustrated!
But in the end, it leaves you so happy you feel you could cry. That's how a book should leave you. She tells it like you're actually there, watching the story play before your eyes.

this is totaly wonderful
this book was absolutley perfrect! I cannot add much more within 1000 word than what Lindsay ofAU. said! good job! Linda Chaikin and you! All I can say is all of Linda Chaikins' books have inspired me compleatly like her characters, to be more like our LORD!thank you again!I wish I could meet Mrs. Chaikin. ... Read more

Product Description
In book 3 of The Buccaneers series, true love and adventure follow Emerald and Baret from the breathtaking beauty of Jamaica to the prestigious riches of England's Royal Court. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Spectacular Ending!!
This is the last book in this series, but I feel that it is the best!!Every Christian book fan should read this entire series!!

One of my favorite Series!
This was the first series I read by Linda Chaikin and it was really when I started enjoying reading even more.The book was really incredible.The storyline was great and I love how there is always history intertwined into the story.The only thing is, the book is sooooo expensive!If you go to [..]you can see the books that she lets people borrow or buy.Email her and she'll give you her address.You send her the price of the book (normally around [..] and the shipping (around [..]) and she'll send you her book. [..]

Jamaican Sunset (The Buccaneers Series #3)
It was a great book. I would read the series again. I liked the characters and the way Linda Chaikin wove the Gospel message throughout.

Good results
The book was a bit expencive but it was in good shape. Overall, I am pleased with the purchace.

Great ending, but too brief.
This is an excellent series, and one of Linda Chaikin's best, but this book is way too brief for an ending. The resolution of Baret's father, the treasure, and all of the other plots is too quick, and I almost felt cheated. When a story is built up so much, you expect a big ending, and instead you get a novel that's almost half the size of the first book in the series.

Certain relationships and storylines are either wrapped up too quickly, or they aren't really wrapped up at all, and though it would be a bit unbelievable to have every single thing work out in the end, the ending leaves you slightly dissatisfied and wanting more. I feel that Linda Chaikin could have easily written 150 pages more on this story, complete with resolutions for each character and a more balanced ending.

With all that being said, this is a wonderful series, and though I was disappointed in this last book, it was still very good. The love story between Baret and Emerald proves to be one of my favorites, and I've read certain parts of this book over and over because they leave me feeling so giddy! I do wish, however, that the relationship between Erik and Minette was given a more prominent role; it had such potential!

So overall, a wonderful series, even though the ending is disappointing. If you enjoyed this series, be sure to check out Linda Chaikin's other books--they're all wonderful! ... Read more

Product Description
From perilous intrigue at the king's high court to battles between Spanish conquerors and English pirates, Captive Heart takes you on a romantic adventure set in a time when love, honor, land faith forged a sacred trust. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Excellent series
I chanced upon Chaikin's Silkhouse Series, and went searching for more books by this author. This series had me hooked! I read the whole thing in a week (got all 3 from the library). I couldn't put any of the three of them down. The chemistry created between these two characters was awesome. I usually find Christian romance to be, well, flat. It's all too perfect and cheesy. This series, along with the Buccaneers series is an exception to that for sure. Devora was a great protagonist - strong willed, yet vulnerable. I was absolutely loving Bruce Hawkins and his constant teasing and flirting with our heroine. The plot is a lot of fun, and has an ample amount of battling to keep the action going. Using the Caribbean islands as a backdrop doesn't hurt, either. I found myself completely swept away in this world of pirates and nobility. I stayed up until the very early hours of morning to finish them. I would highly recommend this series. It will take you away!

Good story unfortunately full of slurs against Catholicism
I would've given this book five stars it was so well written if it hadn't been for one thing.The author obviously has something against Catholics and doesn't miss a chance to slam them.I have read many fiction books by Christian authors and have never seen this. Sadly it's probably due to a lack of real understanding and misinterpretation of those beliefs.It would be nice if she were to look into things before criticizing because otherwise she just shouts her ignorance from the hilltops. Other than that, a good read!

Electrifying
I cannot put this book down!I believe I'm already in love with Captain Bruce Hawkins.The relationship between him and Devora is so intense and exciting that it makes my blood boil. Linda Chaikin has a way of creating scenes between them that are electrifying.As far as the inaccurate historical data that some are complaining about, for me, that's not why I read a Christian Historical Romance.If I wanted to know every accurate detail of a certain time in history, I'd read a history book.It's the characters, their interactions and the excitement of the story that carries the reader through.

Pirates and Maidens
Living on a beautiful island with a loving fiancee, Devora has a wonderful life until her rarely seen mother returns announcing that Devora is to be married to a Spanish don of her parent's chosing to make an alliance between families. Into the mix is thrown a charming English buccaneer, Bruce Hawkins who also happens to be masquerading as the very same Spanish don that Devora is going to be forced to marry. This of course is unknown to her, since if Bruce is found out, he will be executed by the Spanish as a traitor. Attracted to the charming Englishman, Devora joins him after a raid on the island she's staying at to liberate at friend of the pirates. Drawn to his mystery, Devora and Bruce embark on a tentative relationship only for him to have to leave at the end of the novel, vowing to come back for her.

Better than the average Christian romance novel, this book overflows with intruige and adventure. Bruce is kind, mysterious, stern and vengeful all at once and Devora proves to be more developed than the normal one dimensional romance heroine. This novel was surprisingly good and a good start for the series.

It was great!!!
I loved this book so much! I am 16 and I couldn't put it down the first time I read it... or the second, third, fourth time, etc. As you can see, I reread it whenever I run out of new books to read. Anyone who likes to read Lori Wick or Francine Rivers will love this book... for that matter, anyone who likes adventure and romance will like it... I highly recomend it. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

Hooked from the first chapter!
This is a wonderful series--one of Linda Chaikin's best, though she could have wrapped things up in the third novel much better. The first book, however, is almost perfect, and I couldn't put it down. The story is complex enough without being confusing, and it's much less complicated than Chaikin's "Heart of India" series. The story is compelling and exciting, and as usual, Chaikin inserts many historical facts about the time period that kept me interested and made me want to learn for myself about the Caribbean in the early 17th century.

The characters are written so well that you can almost see them, and each character is developed and given plenty of backstory. The romance is amazing; each interaction between Emerald and Baret left me holding my breath, and their conversations and sarcastic banter often made me laugh out loud! The best part about the romance, however, is how gradual it is. Too often in Christian romance, it's "love at first sight"; the characters seem to love each other from the first page! Baret's love for Emerald, however, is extremely refreshing, as there's another woman in the picture, and he's often very unsure of how he feels about everything. You hardly ever see that kind of scenario in Christian romance these days, so I was pleasantly surprised with the relationship between Baret and Emerald and how it progressed.

This is definitely the best book of the three...it goes a little downhill from here, but overall, this is a great series, and one that should not be missed!

A great book!
I really enjoyed this book.I highly recommend it, and would give it more stars if I could.It is a story of romance and adventure. It's great Christian fiction.

Port Royal
I believed this book to be one of the most outstanding books I have ever read! It is amazing how this author captivates you in the way she writes. She makes the world of buccaneering come to life. I reccomend this book to anyone who enjoys adventure and romance!!!

Don't judge the book by it's cover!
I'm always searching for Christian authors that write novels with depth, yet be entertaining.This is the first book by Chaikin I have read, and I truly enjoyed it. The book premise based in the 1600's in Jamaica is refreshing as well. I admit I was skeptical about this book because the cover looked so ridiculous, however, I have to say that the Buccaneers Series books are among my favorites.

Intriguing....
A great start to a series! Intrigue, danger, and adventure are woven into an well-developed plot. Emerald Harwick is quite an inspiring woman who faces hard times in the tropical island of Jamaica; being rejected by her aristocratic family. Baret Buckington, a viscount turned buccaneer, is on a quest to find his imprisoned father though declared dead.Emerald is desperately trying to escape Port Royal with her fiance and cousin Minette.Emerald's father has other ideas regarding Emerald's future and Baret has a part in that plan.What I really hope for in these series that Baret will find his father and Emerald find someone to love and help her deal with the family's obvious rejection and defend her mother's reputation and her own.It leaves you hanging at the end and desperate to get the 2nd book in the series! ... Read more

Product Description
The Flames of Love and Revolution…
 
It is Czarist Russia, 1914. Karena Peshkev dreams of escaping her family’s country estate and attending medical school. But each year, as she watches her hopes of being accepted to the Imperial College of Medicine slip further away, she much content herself with working alongside her mother, the village’s Jewish midwife.
 
On a visit to her cousin’s sumptuous mansion, Karena gets a taste of Russian high society–and meets Colonel Alexsandr Kronstadt. Their attraction is immediate, but they can never act on it. Alex is meant for Karena’s cousin, the general’s daughter, a superior match politically and socially.

But when the accusations of Bolshevik conspiracy tear her family apart, Karena and her mother flee to St. Petersburg. The Okhrana–the Russian secret police–are convinced Karena is a Bolshevik traitor, in league with the rebel party’s leader. Certain she is guilty of murder and assassination, they’re determined to hunt her down. Alex risks his career and his life to protect her from afar, but will it be enough? Will he find her in time to save her from false accusations–and declare his love?
 
Vibrant with historical detail and richly woven themes of danger, romance, and God’s faithfulness, The Midwife of St. Petersburg is an eloquent tale portraying the beauty and madness of a country that is about to change forever. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Karena Peshkev dreams of escaping her family's country estate to attend medical school
In early-20th-century Czarist Russia, Karena Peshkev dreams of escaping her family's country estate to attend medical school. But she continues to be waitlisted because her mother, the village's midwife, is Jewish. On a visit to her wealthy cousin Tatiana's St. Petersburg mansion, Karen meets Colonel Alexsandr Kronstadt, a member of the Okhrana, or secret police. While their attraction is immediate, Alex is meant for Tatiana, the general's daughter --- a superior match politically and socially.

But when the accusations of Bolshevik conspiracy tear her family apart, Karena and her mother flee to St. Petersburg. The Okhrana believes that Karena is a Bolshevik traitor, in league with the rebel party's leader. Will Karena and her family survive? Will she and Alex ever be able to have a relationship?

This historical tale of a Christian-Jewish family's involvement in the Revolution is different and intriguing. Joseph Peshkov is a Christian, and his wife Yeva is a convert -- but she and her relatives (including scholar Uncle Matvey Menkin, who believes that Jesus Christ is the Jewish Messiah) remain under close scrutiny by the Okhrana. Complicating matters is the fact that Karena's brother Sergei is deeply entrenched in Bolshevik activities. When Colonel Aleksandr Kronstadt is sent to investigate suspicious doings where the family lives, near Kiev, his infatuation with Karena leads him to help her and her family out of numerous scrapes.

Grandmother Jilinsky's dreadful memories of pogroms in her native Poland, Madame Yeva's hinky ownership of a stunning jewel and the fact that all available able-bodied men are either being conscripted into the military or sent to labor camps mean that a happy ending for Karena and her ailing mother will be hard to come by.

There were some elements in this book that I greatly enjoyed, not the least of which were a number of the characters. Uncle Matvey, with his gouty foot and book-crowded study, is a marvelous creation, a sort of antiqued "Jews for Jesus" proselytizer. Kronstadt's stepmother Olga evokes all of the splendor and much of the guilt of the White Russian aristocracy. I'm not sure why author Linda Lee Chaikin always refers to the diamonds worn by the shallow aristocratic women as "South African diamonds," unless she has some political bone to sharpen. That's fine, but given the lack of similar digs at worldly things in the book, the shtick seems out of place.

I also liked the homework Chaikin has done on early 20th-century medical and hygienic practices; Madame Yeva believes as firmly in sickroom cleanliness as her idol Florence Nightingale did. I would love to see a book about Karena and her mother running a clinic for St. Petersburg's ladies of the evening (as Karena does a bit of towards the end of the novel).

--- Reviewed by Bethanne Kelly Patrick

More Stars Please
In my opinion, Linda Chaikin writes for 2 genres. One is the fast-paced world of intrigue with highly woven plots and characters (The Buccaneers, Silk House, Heart of India). The other is slightly more relaxed with deep detail and characters who think before they act (Lions of the Desert, East of the Sun). This book falls into the realm of the second, and is a highly entertaining and evocative read.

In respect to the other reviews listed here, yes there are some moments where the text repeats, but possibly this is a help to the reader who cruises through a book, rather than a speed-freak like myself who can't wait to get to the end and find out what happened and blazes through it in under 24hrs. Every author has his or her own foibles, no matter who they are. It's worth 'forgiving' this for the sake of what's going on. Keep in mind also that Aussies don't think like Americans, Americans don't think like Russians, and Russians don't think like Jews. There are valid reasons behind the behaviour of the characters here. To me the style of the book made perfect sense and the pace was beautiful. Too quick, and you fail to 'feel'. A good book is about more than a fleeting mental pleasure.

If you want a quickie romance with passionate love affairs and unrealistic time spans, go and get a novella. The Midwife of St Petersberg is a story with integrity and passion for the long haul, and the characters are treading carefully. Some men and women (Micheal W Smith's biography) share a glance and 'know'they have found their Mr or Mrs Right. Other people can take ten times longer. Still others rush into flings and get themselves in a whole lot of trouble...

Beside the point. I found the story clipped, and see that Chaikin is toning back her long descriptives in favour of urging the story along at a pace with realism that is highly plausible. This book is about more than romance. It's about relationship, deception, truth and what we all want to fight for when government does its people wrong. Karena's own spiritual journey develops in this book, and I am quite certain we shall see one if not two more installments here, hence, what some readers refer to as 'unanswered questions' and loose ends.

At the risk off too much dialogue about author technique, the story goes as follows: Karena is the daughter of a Russian Wheat farmer and has a brother and a sister and numerous cousins. She ventures to cousin Tatiana's house first where she meets Aleksander, or Alex. Their attraction is instant though they talk themselves out of it due to circumstance. Karena's brother ends up in a whole lot of trouble with the law as a Bolshevik, and later she is caught up in his web, ending with dire circumstances when their father, Josef, all but sacrifices himself so that Sergei can have a life. Alex's part to play is as Colonel, for the time being, and his step-mother helps him out with 'spy matters', since she also is a spy and is one of the few he can confide in. The situation for Karena changes numerous times in the space of hours, and her life is thrown into a spin. What would you do if everything you loved was suddenly ripped away?

Karena has several encounters with Alex, as well as the 'troublemakers' of the story. The character details do help define the people and certainly shows who they are and what they are not. Some of it is rather blunt, and shows just how stupid people can be, even when the truth is right before their eyes.

I hesitate to say too much and reveal all the secrets, or else, if you read the reviews here you might be disappointed with knowing everything! :) Suffice it to say, there is a kind of "Book #1" ending about it. It is a semi-cliff hanger not devoid of hope or promise. Karena's own mother is probably holding the biggest bomb of all to drop, at this stage.

Yes, it is a good read. A great read. It does deserve the time of day, but I also suggest you keep in mind not only what kind of things you love, but also to try something a little different. This is meant to be more than your average fiction romance. I considered it very smooth, and I can't wait for the next one!
Way to go LLC! :)

Don't waste your time.
"The Midwife of St. Petersburg" was a great disappointment to me. I have long heard about Linda Lee Chaikin as being an excellent writer of exciting, romantic historical Christian novels, but this book, the first of hers I have read, did not prove such praises to be true. I certainly hope that what other reviewers have said is true, and that this novel is not a good example of Chaikin's work, because based on this book alone, I would most likely never read a book of hers again.

It would be a VAST understatement to say that this book is LONG and drawn-out far beyond what is necessary. It seems as though Chaikin takes forty pages to write what could be done eloquently and efficiently in about five pages. That being said, she certainly pays close attention to detail, leaving no stone unturned - and no thought unrecorded. You do get a feel for the time period and setting when reading this novel. I suppose that attention to detail is the only reason I'm giving this book two stars instead of one.

The constant inner monologues of her characters are, I suppose, meant to create depth in them, but instead it comes off as long-winded and boring. The relationships, particularly the "romantic" one, also lack depth and believability. The "romantic" aspect of this book is nearly non-existent, highly contrived, and very disappointing. The plot, aside from moving ridiculously slow, simply dead ends without much resolution, which is also unsatisfactory.

I think that Chaikin is trying to make this novel the first in a series; my assumption is based solely on the lack of resolution in the plot, although nothing on the book jack or the back of the book indicates that a sequel is in the works. If a sequel is indeed going to be published, I will most certainly not be reading it; I couldn't finish this book fast enough, which is always a sign of a sub-par novel.

Grade: D

Pretty bad for a Chaikin book
Midwife of St. Petersburg is not one of Ms. Chaikin's better books.In fact, I found it to be pretty annoying.The overall writing style seems sloppy- random events become major focal points and random people appear to have significance. There seems to be bouts of extraneous tangents on certain people and subject matters (Rasputin, Florence Nightingale, etc.) There are multiple instances where a certain fact or event is repeated, first stated by one character then the next chapter another character makes the exact same remark.At least three times, there is the same comment made about Florence Nightingale and her sanitizing/hand-washing practices. Almost as if someone wasn't paying attention when editing or it is assumed that the readers need these redundancies...???? It was extremely annoying to read a story that already didn't have much of a plot and would expound boring historical information, leave a lot of loose ends unresolved AND yet would repeat whole sections that weren't that exciting or relevant the first time.

I personally didn't like the protagonist of Karena either.She seemed like she would be a sweet, caring girl but she was portrayed as stupid and careless.She would knowlingly endanger herself and then 'acted' surprised at the outcome!The little romance that there is in the story, between Karena and Alex, is just barely beginning and yet they claim to have already fallen head over heels for each other.In that sense, even the romance doesn't seem realistic.There is too much time devoted to explaining certain historical facts (the character of Rasputin, religious persecution, Bolshevik revolutions) at great lengths that is too much for a work of fiction. And even those facts are repeated over and over again.As if we're too stupid to have noticed them the first time they were mentioned.

There are also some very hokey lines that make "serious" parts almost laughable. Karena "dream[ed] of the day when she would see him again (...)the day the rosebud would open into a full, red rose.""The times are against us."Those lines could be sweet and poetic but the way they're used it seems more melodramatic.

Overall, a disappointment.This story isn't on the same level as Ms. Chaikin's other novels.It was an interesting story idea but it isn't written well.If is was better edited and the plot more concentrated, it would have made a strong, stand alone book.But instead there is a poorly structured plot with a lot of loose ends and redundancies.

For some better historical romances set in Russia, I recommend reading the Heirs of Anton series by Susan May Warren and Susan Downs.

A Story that begs to be read and enjoyed!
One of the best books ever written by Linda Chaikin! Russia 1914, a time of unrest among the common people forgotten by the czar and the elite. Karena Peshkova seeks to gain admittance to the prestigious Medical school in St.Petersburg in order to become a doctor but her dream for three years in a row have been dashed. She must content herself to work alongside her monther on her family's country estate as a midwife. But on a visit to her wealthy cousin's home in Kazan, Karena meets the dashing officer Alex Kronstadt who is promised in a political marriage to her cousin, Tatiana. The attraction between them is immediate but they both knew they could never act upon it. As the story prgresses, Karena finds herself a target for the Russian Imperial Secret Police as in league with the rebel leader of the Bolshevik. Certain that she is guilty of murder and conspiracy against the Czar, they are determined to hunt her down. Alex intervenes from afar, saving her life, while knowing that his action could jeopardize his career in the Russian military. Would he be able to get through and declare his love for Karena?

For now this is a standalone novel but I have been told that Linda's readers should write to the publisher of this book for a sequel. The ending was left open for more to the story. I would love for this story to continue! ... Read more

Product Description
He fought to seek his fortune.
Would he lose a greater treasure: the love he left behind?

As the son of the squire of Grimston Way, aristocrat Rogan Chantry has fought hard to win his independence from Sir Julien Bley and the British South Africa Company. Now, his pursuit of a mysterious deposit of gold, marked on a map willed to him by his murdered uncle, Henry Chantry, is challenged by a new complication: the impending British colonization of South Africa. Can Sir Rogan find the gold in the midst of escalating tensions among the native tribesmen, the missionaries sent to win them, and the new colonists?

Meanwhile, Evy Varley, the woman Rogan loves back in England, is headed for a brave yet dangerous confrontation with Henry’s killer–but at what price? With so much against Rogan and Evy, a reunion seems improbable, if not impossible. Can yesterday’s promise hold them faithful to the hope of future freedom and a victorious love? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

Two points-of-view keeps reader interested
For me the novel "Yesterday's Promise", by Linda Lee Chaikin, was a little bit hard to get into. I figure this is due to the fact that it is the second book of Chaikin's "East of the Sun Series," and the first book of the series I've read. However, being that I hadn't read the first book of the series I don't feel that took anything away from the story. If I would have read the first book this one would have been richer for me of course, but I still really enjoyed it. The only historical novels I would call myself a fan of are those of world war two era, which this one is not. It takes place in the late 1800s, with both historical and fictional characters, in England and South Africa. This novel was full of adventure, murder, mystery, aristocratic politics and faith. Chaikin focused separately on characters Evy and Rogan. When I was reading about one, I was wondering what was happening with the other. I enjoyed the end of the book the most and am anxious to find out what happens to Evy and Rogan in the third installment of the series.

Yesterday's Promise
From what I hear, this is the second book in it's series. I would have never been able to tell. Linda Lee Chaikin has woven her characters together in such a way that this fascinating story can stand on it's own. Intrigue abounds as Rogan Chantry tries to find his fortune in the gold and diamond trade of South Africa in the late 1800's. But what awaits Evy, his true love who must face a murder alone.
So many historical fictions I have read have been based in the wild west or during the civil war. It was a refreshing change of pace for me to read something from a totally different world!

Yesterday's Promise
In this novel were blood is not thicker than water, Rogan Chantry finds himself in a fierce battle with several relatives, and tribes in South Africa over diamonds, gold, and a treasure map.

I found it difficult to have any sympathy for any of the characters involved. They all seemed to be very greedy fortune hunters. Even the main character, Rogan showed few Christian values. He was willing to leave his love, Evy Varley behind in search for his riches.

At certain points the book was very interesting and quite a page turner and other times the novel was bogged down with too many characters and didn't seem to have much relevance to the story. In the books defense, this was book two in a series, and maybe those characters had more relevance in the first book.

Didn't Enjoy This Book
Yesterday's Promise, by Linda Lee Chaikin, is the second book in the East of the Sun series.It is about a man named Rogan Chantry who is in South Africa looking for gold.While he is there, he encounters many problems due to tension between the natives who live in South Africa, the missionaries who are there to minister to them, and the new colonists who live there.

Rogan is also separated from the woman he loves, Evy Varley, who lives in England and may be in danger herself.In fact, the title of the book comes from a promise that hopefully will be enough to keep the two faithful to each other until they can be together again.

I will admit that I didn't enjoy this book very much.I thought the author's writing style was very pleasant and her attention to detail, such as information about the surroundings and the characters, was good.I had a hard time "getting into" this book, though.I think the main problem was most likely that, because this book is the second in a series and I haven't read the first one, I just missed too much information from the first book.I had a hard time feeling like I could get to know the characters and could follow the plot.

Yesterday's Promise: OK, but not great
Rogan Chantry arrives in South Africa hoping to follow his murdered uncle Henry's map to gold. Evy Varley, the girl Rogan loves, faces her own trials in England, as Henry's murderer is still unknown ... as is her own heritage.

This is book two in Chaikin's "East of the Sun" series. Perhaps if I had read book one prior to reading "Yesterday's Promise," I would have enjoyed it more. As it was, I spent the first several chapters trying to understand who everyone was and how they all fit together. Also, Rogan and Evy spend almost all of the book apart, and I found myself not really caring if they ended up together. My guess is that their romance really develops in the first book, and anyone who read book one would be more invested in the characters. The book is well written, but I struggled to make it through the book--it just bored me. The action does pick up near the end, as Henry's murderer is revealed and Evy learns about her parents.

Should you read it? Only if you read and enjoyed the first book in the series.

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group. ... Read more