Shattered Loyalties (Book) - 10/4/2019 9:46:32 AM
The reader perceives they are starting a book about a society girl and her life of fun but in reality the author takes readers on quite a journey.
Using large print makes this an easy-to-read book. Also the chapter breaks are appropriate and make it easy to follow the story line.
The author's use of a plantation owner's wife explaining her daily interactions--gives a dimension to the story that is quite interesting while sad at the same time. This woman never loses sight of what is right in a time when that was difficult to hold on to.
The struggle some of the characters face in maintaining their humanity amid a culture steeped in a turbulent social issue, is remarkable.
By showing readers the complexity of the intersecting issues, readers are challenged to formulate and understand their own convictions as they relate to them.
This publication will better help readers to see the injustice perpetrated against one whole segment of society and the evil it inflicts on others' minds and actions.
Thank you to the author for taking the time to get this publication to print.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
Shattered Loyalties (Book) - 7/24/2018 10:12:47 AM
Slave Owner Daughter and Wife Acts Against Southern Tradition!
Miranda may have been a southern woman and lived on a farm with slaves, she had begun to form her own opinions early from her own conscience, or perhaps God's teachings, and her compassion, not accepting that people had a right to own other people. Fortunately, her father had adjusted to his own opinions and his workers were quite happy staying on the plantation.
Megie, who have been "given" to her when younger, now was a dear friend who helped her, rather than a personal slave... And now as they were both getting older, Miranda was happy to have met a young man for whom she had strong feelings which were returned. Her younger sister was not so lucky, as she was asked to marry, via her parents who gave permission, and then wasn't quite sure she even loved him... Yes, arranged marriages apparently was alive and well in the south at that time...
Miranda was soon married to the owner of another plantation, a larger one where she would become mistress... and Megie came with her, thankfully, because soon she would need a friend to help her as the confusion and suspicion started...
First, she had overheard just a small part of a discussion among her husband, his father and their lawyer. She had heard a woman's name...and her father-in-law was recommending that they get rid of her! Morgan seemed to be leaving for business much more often and longer than he had and Miranda feared he was having an affair. She was so confused that even when she became pregnant, she did not share it with him...
While Morgan was gone, though, Miranda had done much to improve and share the lives of the slaves at the plantation. She began to help the woman who took care of illnesses and other physical issues of the people... She had hats ordered for all of them so that they would be more protected from the hot sun beating down on them in the fields... And she also spoke up when the man in charge of productivity used a whip... and then much worse...
But when Megie fell in love with a new slave and wanted to marry, Miranda was very disappointed when Morgan would not allow it... Disappointing her best friend, Megie, and also not understanding Morgan's reasoning for not approving, pulled Miranda even further into a state of anxiety...
And finding out the truth that the woman's name was actually the name of a ship...a slave ship...didn't help! Her husband was illegally involved in bringing in more slaves!
And as things moved rapidly toward a climatic ending, Miranda sought information on the nearest location to find an Underground Railroad for escape...and Miranda told Megie and her husband, who had been married by "stepping over the broom..." to get ready because she was going with them!
I've always had feelings much like the author...that God never intended man to be owned by another man...and, even today, treated by some with hate and disdain... I think it is important that books such as this be written by White people to show that so many of us still care and hurt for how God's children was and can be treated through prejudice.
Although there are some proofreading issues, they did not detract from the wonderful story that is being shared by Karen Chalfant. I met Karen through her book, Deep in Time. Do check out my review of that book, which made me decide that I wanted to read another by this warm, sensitive author. I'm not sure whether they are listed as Christian books, but they certainly share His love in her stories... Highly recommended.
GABixlerReviews
Paperback provided by Authors Den
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Deep In Time (Book) - 6/28/2018 2:34:11 PM
It is not everyday one inherits a plantation and a historic tavern located in New Orleans's French Quarter. However, this is what happened to Rebecca Brousseau when her beloved aunt died. Prior to her death, Rebecca's aunt gave her a family heirloom necklace which turns out to be much more than just a piece of jewelry.
This is an intriguing and enchanting story. It combines time travel, mystery and love seamlessly. The story is well crafted and easy to read. I am hoping for a sequel. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Deep In Time (Book) - 6/26/2018 3:58:00 AM
Deep in Time is a pretty good clean, time travel romance. I did have a hard time getting into the book until about 40-50 pages. I am so glad I kept reading. It got so very good. There are some twists that I did not expect. I felt the ending was a little rushed and wished the book could have been a little bit longer.
Overall, I give Deep in Time three and a half stars. Definitely a worth a read.
I received this book from the author. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
Deep In Time (Book) - 6/2/2018 8:29:50 AM
Rebecca Brousseau had been living with her Aunt Emma every since her parents had died, together. Years later, now, Aunt Emma was moving toward the end of her life and Rebecca visited as often as she could. Rebecca, a haunted house tour guide worked odd and late hours, but took care to keep her Aunt in books and other special things each time she visited. But this time, her Aunt had a present for her as well, a beautiful antique necklace that apparently had been in the family for years, but for whatever reason, had never been worn by any family member...
Rebecca's lover and her Aunt's lawyer, Alex, had made all arrangements for Aunt Emily's entire estate to go to Rebecca. But when Rebecca lost her too soon, she wasn't worried about what she had inherited... So, when she finally felt she was able to deal with the legal aspects, she was surprised to learn that not only had she entertained the entire plantation, but also a local tavern, one Rebecca had never known was owned by her family...
Adjusting to her new responsibilities could take time, but, after moving into her Aunt's home, she also started going in to meet with the present manager, who she asked to stay on, and to get to know the business. She had never owned any property and felt a great responsibility... That feeling of responsibility was not welcomed by the man who had controlled all aspects of the Tavern for many years...
Before finishing her tour guide position, Rebecca was working one night, only to have a man, apparently dressed in costume, join the group. He introduced himself as Maddox and instead of watching the places they were touring, he kept his eyes on Rebecca...and the necklace she wore...
Not thinking too much about him, except from a personal point of her attraction to him, she was shocked, upon beginning to review what was in the attic of her new home, to find a picture of...the...man who she had just met on her last tour! The painting was dated a century ago...
Can a spell cast many years ago bring together true lovers? Readers will enjoy watching it happen! And also watch Rebecca as she takes on many new responsibilities and then... disappears... I must admit I had a few questions at the end--would I give up my life for what may be true love? Would you?
This is a fast read which flows smoothly from one calamity to another while we watch a young woman move into an entirely new, independent life that offers so very much...Wealth and riches or love... Karen Chalfant takes us Deep in Time to tell us this intriguing and enjoyable tale. Highly recommended.
GABixlerReviews
Paperback provided by Authors Den
Shattered Loyalties (Book) - 6/1/2018 3:35:04 PM
Miranda Croteau is a child of privilege, having been born to wealthy Louisiana plantation owners. Shattered Loyalties, a novel by Karen Chalfant, opens in 1825 and Miranda is soon to become the wife of the man she loves, Morgan Hightower who is a plantation and slave owner. She is no stranger to slavery, but she quietly grapples with its realities. Once married she uncovers her husband's secrets and she is faced with her own loyalty dilemmas when her personal slave is threatened.
The author brings to readers a story that transports us back to a time filled with troubling issues. Even though Miranda understands her place and limitations in her marriage, she does not relinquish her strong sense of right and wrong. She understands loyalty, remains compassionate and will protect those she loves even at great personal risk. She proves she is a remarkable woman. The pace builds slowly with narrative twists which lead to an exciting conclusion.
I found this to be a well written and emotionally stirring novel. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Shattered Loyalties (Book) - 5/31/2018 10:52:58 AM
I was not sure how I would like Shattered Loyalties at first. It is a perfect reason why a reader should give indie authors a try. I. Loved. This. Book. I loved Miranda right from the start and loved her relationship with Megie. I thought the author did a fantastic job writing about the times in the early 1800s.
I would give Shattered Loyalties 100 stars if I could. A wonderful short and clean historical. Highly recommended.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
Deep In Time (Book) - 4/16/2018 6:52:46 AM
Rebecca Brousseau, a New Orleans French Quarter haunted-tour guide, is a compassionate new age adult character drawn to full measure by Author Karen Chalfant in Deep In Time.
Beneath the surface suspense seeps into Rebecca’s life even before her romantic infatuation with Alex Masterton, a successful attorney. While their matrimonial bells pause on the upswing, blissful hope exists.
Masterful suspense is constant as visible and invisible threads build to an artful conclusion. Throughout, the reader is exposed to Rebecca’s family history, a uniquely costumed street character, and Aunt Emma. Before Aunt Emma’s untimely death, it is her special gift passed to Rebecca that is the fulcrum of the balance between reality and paranormal fantasy.
While this reader was provided a complimentary copy for an honest review, it would be devilish sport to reveal too many delicious tidbits. Suffice it to say, readers will find a character, if not Rebecca, to satisfy the mind or one’s loving soul.
Remember, this is New Orleans where, outside city streets, moss-draped plantations were a lifestyle unconnected to Bourbon Street, or not! If you dare, trust your divining senses, or intuition, or the portrait eyes you stare into.
Whatever you chose, you’ll be sure to enjoy a Deep In Time journey.
Deep In Time (Book) - 4/10/2018 7:32:52 AM
Surprised at how easily the story enfolds. Had not read the excerpt so had no idea of the author's writing style. I was pleasantly captured by the flow of the story.
The author was able to incorporate this story with sci-fi, fantasy, romance, and relevant abuse and still have the reader wondering what was going to happen in the end.
The author is able to use her imagination with these truly wonderful characters and allow the reader to become invested in their lives and their happenings.
There is a sense of the ridiculous and fantastical in the time travel twist of the story which in no way detracts but draws the reader in even more.
I was impressed with the development of the characters and the hint of Alex's personality early on but not until the end of the story--is he fully exposed. The author has enabled her readers to see a glimpse into a small part of one woman's life and how abuse crept into it while hidden in a veneer of love.
The end of the story was dramatic but appropriate and left the reader with a feeling of completion.
A truly remarkable read.
The Narrow Way (Poetry) - 10/22/2019 9:05:31 PM
powerful message
Never stop writing
m
The Narrow Way (Poetry) - 10/6/2019 9:26:36 AM
Soothing thoughts expressed throughout. But, "the road less traveled," and therefore, has less traffic, may diverge from the, "narrow path," you describe as "God's way." How are we to know what else there is to life by strictly following His way without having a choice or question?
Ron
The Narrow Way (Poetry) - 10/5/2019 10:04:51 AM
Such a beautiful poem! Told with love, caring, and humility. Almost like an angel speaking. Or maybe it really is an angel writing...
Be Still And Know... (Poetry) - 10/5/2019 5:48:46 AM
Tender, loving, moving. Inspirational as well. Ron does have an interesting poem. Perhaps another poem from another point of view. I often write what I can "mirror poems", two poems on the same theme that somehow reflect off each other. Fine work here.
The Narrow Way (Poetry) - 10/5/2019 5:46:37 AM
A measured poem of classic rhythm and rhyme with a subterranean layer of meaning that truly inspires. Excellent pen and ink.
The Narrow Way (Poetry) - 10/4/2019 2:35:24 PM
An effective understanding of Matthew 7:13-14. Matthew 7:21-23 is the scary part, especially since the Holy Spirit is talking to the people who assume they're worthy, and that because of their works they will be entering into the Father's Kingdom. A thoughtful piece. Thanks for sharing. r
Behind The Veil (Poetry) - 8/28/2017 12:44:41 AM
THANK GOD 'HE' IS CONSTANT! MORNING, NOON OR NIGHT...HIS LOVING PRESENCE IS THERE TO TAKE US THROUGH! THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS.
Come Before Him (Poetry) - 8/28/2017 12:39:28 AM
WE NEED ONLY...TURN, AND THERE HE IS WAITING. TO RENEW AND STRENGTHEN US TO JUST AS HE PROMISED. SO INSPIRING, THANKS FOR SHARING, KAREN. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
The Garden (Poetry) - 8/28/2017 12:33:19 AM
WITHOUT SUCH MIRACULOUS MOMENTS THAT ARE PRICELESS WE, WHO WAIT IN EXPECTATION AND TRUST HIM, COULD NOT GO! HE LOVES US AND GIVES US JUST WHAT WE NEED TO...PRESS ON! THANK YOU FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Be Still And Know... (Poetry) - 8/28/2017 12:28:24 AM
AMEN! WHAT A WONDERFUL INSPIRATIONAL WORK TO READ THIS EARLY MORNING! THANK YOU, KAREN...PRESS ON! LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS
Be Still And Know... (Poetry) - 7/18/2017 8:47:32 AM
Would be better if it were from your viewpoint.
Ron
The Garden (Poetry) - 7/14/2017 8:55:32 AM
Love your poem and the painting. I am a Thomas Kincaid fan. Now I am a Karen Chalfant fan too.
Behind The Veil (Poetry) - 7/8/2017 11:36:08 AM
There is a certain mystery here that I'm trying to discern. Is her love a creature of the night? A vampire?
Ron
Behind The Veil (Poetry) - 7/7/2017 3:29:25 PM
What happens behind the veil of night stays behind the the veil of night. Very romantic indeed.
Behind The Veil (Poetry) - 7/7/2017 12:06:12 PM
Oh yes, yes indeed, "behind the veil of night" is something that tends to allow everything to not bother with what is supposed to be, only what is to be.
