Five-Stars: Book Review: Blossoms Over Bringewood by Celena Janton
A piercing scream shattered the reverie of a bride-to-be. Instantly, Melissa Berington left the swans in the Thames River and the cherry tree blossoms to follow the horrific sound across the lush grounds of Bringewood Manor, all the way up to her bedroom, where she finds a young woman about to give birth. The year is 1743. To end the curse haunting her family and threatening her marriage, Melissa must revisit the past.
The story continued with a wedding ceremony at Bringewood Manor, which at the time is owned by the d’Windesleys. Lord Rickert d’Windesley found himself instantly attracted to Melissa, but the feelings were not mutual-at first. She recalled that her fiancé Tom had told her Lord d’Windesley was wicked. Nevertheless, Melissa convinced herself that knowing this stranger will help her uncover the dark secrets of the estate she inherited.
Miraculously, God introduced Melissa to American preacher Jonathan Edwards when she accepted an invitation from Lady Julianne d’Windesley, the sister of Lord d’Windesley, to attend his sermon. Melissa was mesmerized by his words, as if Preacher Edwards spoke directly to her. She was even more taken upon realizing that God answered her prayers for help.
Janton reminds us that God never ceases to work wonders in our lives through His unconditional love. He answers our cries for help. He changes stubborn hearts. He is merciful. Moreover, God gives us chances to remedy mistakes, and knowing of His saving grace gives us the strength to act toward a better future.
Furthermore, the attention to detail allows readers to visualize life among the nobility in 18th century England, and the fluctuating feelings between Melissa and Lord d’Windesley add additional suspense. Janton also refers to the prequel The Songbird and the Secret often enough to remind readers of how the saga began. However, Blossoms Over Bringewood can be an independent story.
A free copy of this book was exchanged in return for an honest review.