can continue in this life when she's offered the challenge of a lifetime--determine whether a certain wealthy gentleman is loyal to Britain or to Germany. After all how does one steal a family's history, their very name? As Europe moves ever closer to World War I, rumors swirl around Peter Holstein. Awkward and solitary, but with access to the king, many fear his influence. But Peter can't help his German last name and wants to prove his loyalty to the Crown--so he can go back to anonymously writing a series of popular adventure novels. When Rosemary arrives on his doorstep pretending to be a well-credentialed historian, Peter believes she's the right person to help him dig through his family's past. When danger and suspicion continue to mount, both realize they're in a race against time to discover the truth--about Peter's past and about the undeniable attraction kindling between them.
 Reviewer: Elsie Stoltzfus This book simply didn't strike true to me. The story was interesting enough, but it seemed that many of the characters (including a professional thief) were far too naive. Most of the characters are very likable, and a few of them are entirely believable. The plot was good for the most part, but the main plot twist took me by complete surprise, because it was, to put it plainly, far-fetched. Again, it failed to convince. Still, I had a very fun time reading it, and it did keep me spellbound. Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Reviewer: Eva-Joy Schonhaar What a thoroughly enjoyable experience! I was a little unsure, starting this book, as I find most Historical Christian Fiction to be (most often) boring and annoying, but A Name Unknown gripped my interest very quickly and I found it almost impossible to tear myself away. Though it's a long novel - over 400 pages - I read it in three days. One of my favorite things about this book was, of course, the character. I didn't really like Rosemary for much of the book, but I found her an entertaining protagonist. Nearer to the end of the story, however, she changes for the better and I really, really liked her then. The book alternates between Rosemary's point of view and Peter's point of view and that was done very well. (Roseanna White's writing style is perfection for the genre.) Peter was a dear man. Loved him. And there were lots and lots of other great characters throughout as well. I hope that there are cameo appearances of at least some of them in the next book. I liked how the plot twisted and turned and was mysterious without being a straight-up mystery (I dislike mysteries). Very intriguing. Not everything is as it seems. I also liked how romance wasn't the central focus of A Name Unknown because I'm not hugely into books that are pure romance (though I do like some romance, about the level that Roseanna White puts into this book). Overall, A Name Unknown was a fascinating, enjoyable read and one that will probably be one of my favorites of 2017. Highly recommended to fans of Historical Christian Fiction. Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Reviewer: Rebecca Maney "Rosemary Gresham may have been a thief, but she was a thief who preferred to work in broad daylight." And just like that, in the dead of night, Rosemary receives an assignment like no other; travel from London to Cornwall and pilfer hard evidence against a Mr. Peter Holstein, proving him to be an enemy of the Crown; surreptitiously using his German heritage to full advantage while posing as a reclusive English gentleman. Offering extraordinary financial benefits for her success; enough funds to feed, clothe, and house the entire dozen of her so-called family members for months, Rosemary feels that she has no choice but to accept the challenge . Peter Holstein is cautiously optimistic that God has indeed answered his prayers, when a pretty young librarian with impeccable references arrives unannounced at his estate seeking the position for which he has advertised. Peter must locate vital family documents needed to substantiate his allegiance to England in spite of his complicated lineage, and Miss Gresham clearly seems to possess enough spunk to create order out of chaos within his family's cluttered library. Just so long as she remembers to respect his privacy (for Peter has as many secrets as Rosemary), they will get along marvelously. Beautifully penned, this story weaves history, mystery, and romance with ease, endearing characters and readers to such an extent that neither will want the story to end. I received a copy of this book from the author. The opinions stated are entirely my own.  Reviewer: Laura J. Davis Oh, my! I absolutely loved this book! The author has done an incredible job of keeping the identity of Mr. V such a surprise that one wonders what will happen next with Rosemary. I loved that the characters of Rosemary and Peter grow and change as the story progresses. One does wonder if a romance will develop and the way it does is very sweet. I particularly enjoyed the story within a story - Peter's story that is. It adeptly showed how the mind of an author works when they are creating. While Rosemary thought Peter odd or rude staring off into space whilst talking to her, he was actually plotting the next scene for his novel. I believe authors of all kinds will relate to this. I also enjoyed how the characters grew and that the author did not shy away from talking about God and faith. Rosemary's growth was particularly touching. If you like adventure, intrigue and romance you will love A Name Unknown! Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Reviewer: Mary Hosmar Rosemary Gersham, thief extraordinaire, is offered the job of her life. The pay alone will keep her family housed and fed for a long time. All she needs to do is find evidence of Peter Holstein’s disloyalty to his country. Given his background, that shouldn’t be too difficult for someone with her qualifications. Ms. White has presented the reader with an excellent historical novel set in England just before the outbreak of WWI. Espionage, subterfuge and, yes, romance, are all part this intriguing story. Throw in a painless history lesson or two and the mix is complete. There are enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing, at least about the espionage and subterfuge. Which is the villain: the pickpocket thief or the mysterious, wealthy recluse? Ms. White has woven a clear Christian message into the story in such a way that it becomes an intrinsic part of the story. The writing, on the whole, is clear and carries the story forward. There were a couple of occasions towards the end of the book, where I was a little confused and had to go back and re-read a bit in order to understand the story. And what made Mrs. Teague do a 180 degree turn on her attitude? Once I had finished reading and began to think more about the story, I did have some unanswered questions. In spite of this, I recommend this book to historical fiction buffs. Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Reviewer: Kelly Potts The front cover caught my attention, the back cover teased me, and the book kept me on my toes and warmed my heart. Each character Ms White brought into the story had their place and every one was well developed. The plot kept me reading, wondering if Rosemary would complete her task, who was Mr. V, what would Peter decide to do? Such a nice surprise when Rosemary decided to finally put her faith in the Lord and who was there to witness to her and dry her tears. Great read! Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Reviewer: Sabrina Wade
Bravo! Bravo! White has never failed to wow me with the way she beautifully writes fiction. So surreal, personal, and enticing. At first it was a slow go trying to jump on that momentum train of fiction. Nevertheless, once there, it was truly hard to put down. An author, writing about an author, who is writing a tale of his own was a little mind-blowing. I absolutely loved the way White wove God's grace throughout the novel. Was nothing short of the gospel. Making it known Christ died for all; from the gutter most to the uttermost. Creating a blessed way for any and all to approach him with heartfelt petitions on one's heart. My most favorite part of it all, we can rise from any brokenness clothed in peace because Christ rose from the grave never to return again. We are all like Rosie, searching for something outside our dinky mundane life to keep us moving forward. Looking forward to the next novel in the series! Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Leave a Reply. |
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