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Tressa Harlowe's father did not trust banks, but neither did he trust his greedy extended family. He kept his vast fortune hidden somewhere on his estate in the south of England and died suddenly, without telling anyone where he had concealed it. Tressa and her ailing mother are left with a mansion and an immense vineyard and no money to run it. It doesn't take long for a bevy of opportunists to flock to the estate under the guise of offering condolences. Tressa knows what they're really up to. She'll have to work with the rough and rusticated vineyard manager to keep the laborers content without pay and discover the key to finding her father's fortune--before someone else finds it first. Award-winning author Joanna Davidson Politano welcomes readers to Trevelyan Castle, home of the poorest heiress in Victorian England, for a treasure hunt they'll not soon forget.… (more)
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What I have trouble with is writing a review. When I started this book I felt like I was reading a fairy tale and even though I was enjoying the story I had no plans to give it 5 stars. I was finding it hard to believe
The story starts with Tessa Harlowe and her mother returning from their trip abroad after receiving word that they are needed back home, Trevelyn Castle. Once they arrive they hear the news that Josiah Harlowe has died leaving the family heavily in debt to angry creditors and vineyard workers who haven't been paid. What to do as relatives show up as well as townspeople who have heard about a hidden fortune. I'm thinking....your father has told no one where the fortune is hidden , the "wolves" are at the door, you live in a castle, you just returned from abroad, don't you have anything to sell to get you out of this bind? That's why it had a fairy tale "feel" for me.
But I set aside practical thoughts and just went with the story. A heroine who needed answers, a hero (or is he) in the form of vineyard manager Donegan Vance plus all the other interesting characters in this story. Who do you trust? Who do you believe? A missing fortune?
It's hard to say more without giving away the story and as a reader you have to come to your own conclusions. So after reading this story of discovery and intertwining threads and colors I'm giving it 5 stars. Who doesn't love a treasure hunt?
The main points here are fortune and death, there is no body, and now a strange man claims he was hired to restore the vineyard be the deceased. Quite a man at that, and
There are answers and many surprises here, keep reading you won’t be disappointed.
I received this book through LibraryThing, and was not required to give a positive review.
The second half got better. It felt like things were finally picking up. Not sure I would read this again, but I'm giving it four stars simply because it's a clean book and I know that other Christians would appreciate knowing about this book.
The writing was a little flowery, but not overly so, and it invoked strong images that played almost like a movie while I was reading.
Will Tressa be able to tell the difference between who
4 stars.
Author: Joanna Davidson Politano
Pages: 416
Year: 2018
Publisher: Revell
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Lady Jane Disappears is the first book and now we get the sequel titled, A Rumored Fortune. These are just excellent books! Plus, there is a teaser for another book I suspect that
When Tressa meets the man her father hired to care for the vineyard, she is stunned by his looks, the way he tends the vine and how multi-faceted his character. When Tressa returns to her home, she notices the various looks of the people in town, the many who show up on her doorstep to demand payment for bills along with others who are coming to her because they believe her father’s fortune is in her possession or still to be found.
Joanna’s writing is special, and this story’s ending was a surprise just as in the first novel, Lady Jane Disappears, turned out to be. The depth of plot, mystery, many uniquely crafted players that seem almost real kept me turning pages for hours. Reading her novels is bittersweet because I enjoy them so much and yet when I complete one, I am already salivating for her next work. Read and enjoy her tales like you would eating your favorite food, slowly so you can enjoy the richness and flavor of the book.
Expect to be touched in the heart, mind and soul when you finish A Rumored Fortune!
Family
While set in Victorian England, this aspect of the novel, as well as the search for the treasure, is secondary to the romance between Donnegan and Tressa. Unfortunately, the novel is overly long and predictable; the reader will have guessed at the conclusion long before finishing the book.
Ms.
I love the story and the mystery in A Rumored Fortune. It has a Gothic feel to it, reminiscent of Jane Eyre or Wuthering Heights. The whole novel is very atmospheric. Ms. Politano also weaves allusions to Christianity throughout her fictional story of Tressa and the hidden fortune.
Tressa is a main character I fell in love with. I love how she is delicate, yet spunky. She can take care of herself, yet also asks for help when she needs it. She prays and I like how she talks with God. Our hero (who shall remain a mystery because we don’t know who to trust in the beginning) is very swoon-worthy. He also talks to God and follows his convictions to help others.
You will not be disappointed with this book! Ripe (in more ways than one, as it involves a vineyard) with mystery, intrigue, danger, and secrets, you will be frantically flipping through the pages to find answers. Who can Tressa trust and where is this fortune everyone is looking for?
Content: This book is a clean read.
Rating: I give this book 5 stars!
Genre: Christian fiction; Mystery; Historical fiction; Romance; Victorian
I want to thank Joanna Davidson Politano, LibraryThing Early Reviewers and Revell for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
Mystery and romance set in Victorian times. It is another beautifully written attention holding story by Joanna Davidson Politano and there is another book coming too. 4 stars
I enjoyed this book and it had a very interesting storyline. Thank you LibraryThing Early Reviewers for the free copy of this book.
Meanwhile, fortune hunting relatives arrive to "help," or more importantly steal the treasure, if they can find it first. An old flame also arrives to "comfort" Tressa, but she suspects he is only interested in money, not her. Tressa's only ally seems to be a mysterious new land manager her father hired right before he died. Donegan Vance is upfront about wanting money as well, but only what he earns through hard work. He falls in love with Tressa's strength, wit, and thirst for life. You must read the book to find out if the fortune is real or a myth.
I liked this book very much. I think the author did a good job at developing likable characters and an exciting plot line. I also thought her descriptions of the family home, Trevelyan Castle were vivid and well done.
Tressa Harlowe’s odd
I should mention the narrative switches between first person, the rich heiress, Tressa; and third person, Donegan, the vinedresser in a class beneath her. Considering the societal differences so important at that time, this is extremely
clever of Politano.
This book grasped my attention from the start and held on, like the sea and mist that surround the castle and rarely loosen their clutches on it or its land.
Sadly, no matter what time period, people change very little. There are those who hear of someone else’s fortune and justify it should be theirs instead; schemers descend like vultures determined to get their share of the grand meal.
Obviously, Politano is an anglophobe and describes the area, life, and characters with a poetic prose that makes them “a wonder to behold.” She is a romantic in the linguistic sense of the word.
Fortunately, Politano is quite the romantic in the more common sense of the word. We see several possible romances, involving more than just the main characters. Which will thrive, and which will die, because there was no real connection?
Speaking of connections, Tressa has three main interests: her father, (and the vineyard because that was his obsession); relationships, and the fortune. Politano weaves them all together in an unforgettable story of agricultural lessons for life, including the spirit, romance, and intrigue that will leave you amazed at the experience you have just sojourned.
Hard to pick just a few quotes, but here are some faves:
“Strength comes to the branch through connection, and that’s what I’m offering.” How Tressa needs connections in more ways than one!
“It takes a harsh summer to yield abundance in the vineyards...When you feel you’re dying in the summer, all a branch needs to do is hang on.” So timely for anybody going through a rough patch!
“...isn’t the sort of man I would imagine knowing much Scripture.” ‘No, ...he simply lives it out.’” We all need to live out our faith like that unnamed character!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. (I also bought my own copy.) This did not affect my opinions in any way, nor was I required to leave a positive review.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Tressa was likable. She really did try her best to help people even if she had to get her hands dirty. There was a romance that did form in this story. It was sweet but had feelings. However, it didn't matter as again, I could not really feel that emotional connection to the characters. While, I may have only "liked" this book, I would read another one by this author.
Tressa Harlowe is an unwilling heiress after the death of her father. Tasked with taking over Trevelyn Castle and its vineyard, Tressa must also find a legendary treasure. Fortune seekers soon find her way to the castle’s door, and Tressa must decide who is for her and who is against her.
Characterization is strong in A Rumored Fortune. There are no stereotypes here — main and secondary characters are complexly writ with secrets and hidden motives. Of course the two mains are my favorites. Tressa is a determined young woman set on being true to her self and the convictions she holds. Donegan Vance, the vineyard manager hired by Tressa’s father before his death, is all things heroic — noble, long-suffering, and intensely loyal. He struggles with living a life of integrity and keeping the many secrets entrusted to him. Their relationship is one with many obstacles, not least among them their class differences. Mystery fans will love the search for the hidden fortune — there are plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. All the positives of this book are joined with a faith message that I think is the strongest element of the novel. A Rumored Fortune sometimes reads like a parable with powerful symbolism across several levels. Tressa regrets the surface relationship with her father, but comes to realize that even at her loneliest, she was never alone. One of my favorite quotes is:
“Instantly my thoughts pivot. Our Father, who art in heaven. The words landed on my heart afresh, soaking into what had begun to turn stony and hopeless, warming it to life again. I am, he seemed to say to my pleas. I am all those things you want. A statement directly, personally, to my wrung-out fatherless heart.” (p. 297.)
The vineyard itself is a powerful symbol of the connectedness that people yearn for in relationships with others as well as God. This novel would be great for book clubs; there’s just so much to discuss. An excellent discussion guide is included at the end.
On the surface A Rumored Fortune provides a wonderful mystery and romance. But the novel reaches into the heart of the reader, touching it with beautiful truths making it a highly recommended read.
Highly Recommended.
Great for Book Clubs.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to Revell for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
As you know when it rains it pours with life’s problems. Merchants are demanding unpaid bills, treasure hunters and greedy relatives descend upon the castle hoping to get part of the hidden treasure. On top of that she is met by a shadowy man that claims was hired for her father to care for the vineyards. A job he never delegated to anyone!
I found this book to have many “treasures” of the best kind. First was the spiritual analogy of the vineyard and John 15:5, “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”
Even though this was a fiction book, it drew the reader to the importance of Christ and their relationship with Him. The author did it so naturally! It made the story even more beautiful. Instead of just reading and enjoying it I also derived spiritual insights and thoughts. The quotes from the notebook of a viticulturist before each chapter were though provoking, making me want to them more than once.
I loved the mystery, suspense and excitement! I was guessing from moment to the next about what was going to happen. Even when I jumped to conclusions I was usually wrong! Tressa’s sweet spirit and living as a Christian in such dire situations was refreshing. Her focus was on the needs of others despite her problems. I must say her mother was a bit annoying with her shallowness and “llama llama mama drama.” The author’s detailed descriptiveness of characters, emotions and setting made it like a movie was playing in my head!
An incredible book! I will definitely want to read every book Ms. Politano writes!
I received this book from Revell Publishing in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have stated are my own.
The story
This is one author that I am eagerly awaiting her following book. The depth of information, the way she wove me into her story had me captivated. I’m ready for more.
I received this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher, the review is my own.
Our MCs, Tressa Harlowe and Donegan Vance are both interesting and unique characters. I loved Tressa's sweet spirit, artistic mind, and generous heart, and found myself relating to her a lot,
The storyline and mystery were very intriguing, though I must admit, I was very confused for about 90% of the book, which lessened my enjoyment of it. I love a good mystery, but this one seemed . . . too mysterious, if such a thing is possible. I would have preferred a slightly quicker pace with the revelation of certain plot points a little sooner.
Politano's writing style is very beautiful and poetic, if a little overly detailed at times. The author chose a very unique style in that Tressa's POV was in 1st person, while Donegan's was in 3rd person. While I felt that it interrupted the story on occasion, overall, I think it worked quite well and was a unique change.
Overall, my favorite aspect of this book was the vine and vineyard analogies and metaphors, and the tie-ins to John 15. That is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible, and I loved how the author wrapped so many beautiful metaphors into the story in a very subtle but effective, beautiful way.
All in all, while A Rumored Fortune wasn't a personal favorite of mine, I will say that Politano knows how to write a solid mystery, for which I give her kudos.
Recommended for ages 15 for mild romance
FTC disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
My Thoughts: This is the second novel for Author Joanna Davidson Politano and her books only get better and better! A story of intrigue, suspense, love, and lessons to be learned. Tressa and her mother are summoned home early from a trip abroad. Assuming that her father has called them home, Tressa is excited to see him again. When they do finally get home, she is met by a handsome stranger who comes to her aid and brings her to the castle only to find that her father has died. As she learns that Trevelyan has run into money problems she quickly starts searching for the hidden treasure; the only thing is, is that she isn't the only one. At the world of her father's death, everyone wants a piece of the treasure.
This is a gripping story that keeps the reader entertained throughout. It is full of twists and turns, that keeps the reader on edge wondering what will happen next.
The characters are well developed and very believable, as they interact with one another through the story-line,
At the beginning of each chapter, there is a nugget of wisdom that deals with horticulture and raising grapes but it also has a deeper meaning for what goes on in life. The characters also supported a great faith in God which is a good example for us in our own times of despair.
Tressa is a loveable character, and well portrayed in the novel. I can't imagine how hard it would be to trust in a time when it seems all people wanted was money. I think that she did an amazing job, with a few lessons learned.
I highly recommend this novel. I will certainly be looking for more from this author.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Ann H. Gabhart’s River to Redemption is heartwrenching, yet heartwarming historical read.
Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a complimentary copy of River to Redemption and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
When I read The Bar Harbor Retirement Home for Famous Writers (And Their Muses): A Novel Paperback by Terri-Lynne DeFino, I was captivated by the words written at the beginning of each chapter by the late Cornelius Traegar (one of the writers that had initially conceived of the retirement home for writers). Each of the shared messages was not only a perfect complement to the chapter but at the end of the novel, I wanted to go back and read each of the shared chapter openings again for the profound messages for reflection. I couldn't imagine another writer that would have a character share a chapter opening in such a meaningful way until I began reading A Rumored Fortune.
Joanna Davidson Politano's magical novel is captivating for the story but in particular for the shared words at the beginning of each chapter from the Notebook of a viticulturist as written by Tressa's father, viticulturalist Josiah Harlowe. The notes are reflective not only to the growing of grapes but provide food for thought for life.
I didn't know that this novel was Christian fiction until I looked to view the copyright date and noticed the subject as part of the Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data. I thought it was an exquisite example of Christian fiction as Tressa's faith is tested time and again and even during what seem to be her darkest hours and she is questioning if God is listening she continues to talk to God. It is a quiet example (not preaching) testament of a woman's faith.
I loved the writing by Joanna Davidson Politano and will not hesitate to read more of her novels.