Chrysteen Braun

I loved each book of the trilogy of Annie Parker and a set of idyllic cabins in Lake Arrowhead, California. At the end of Book 3, it was so exciting to learn that the author planned a prequel, an earlier history of the cabins, a history that is Ruth Ann Landry’s story to tell. Her tale, a heart-wrenching narrative that spans from 1918 to 1959, is a testament to the indomitable spirit and resilience of a woman navigating circumstances beyond her control.

It is easily read as a stand-alone but all the more meaningful as the trilogy has evolved into a series. The cabins in Lake Arrowhead are not merely a setting but are integral to the storytelling. At the end of the well-written novel, I encourage readers to enjoy

"Interesting Notes, or in other words, going down the proverbial rabbit hole when I’m (Chrysteen Braun) doing research!"

It shares historical notes of locations in the novel, the creative license used for the timing of some events, and inspiration from the history of other events that take place during the span of the storyline. This blend of history and creativity immerses the reader in the period and with the reader hopeful for the best possible outcome for all who find their way to the cabins.

Reviewer’s Note: Originally, the author planned a trilogy, and it became a series with this novel as the prequel. "Dear Noah" will continue Annie Parker's story.

Thank you to Chrysteen Braun, Books Go Social, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book.… (mehr)

Annie Parker is intrigued learning that her newest design client, Hudson Fisher, is the son of the Roaring ‘20s Hollywood starlet, Celeste Williams. Thankfully, Sam has kept the old guest books, and the entry that Annie locates leads to a family secret that surprises everyone. As Annie is never one to sit still, she’s delighted that Sarah, a friend since childhood, has finally accepted her invitation to visit.

The story is told from 3 POVs, Annie, Hudson, and Sarah. I enjoyed the multiple perspectives and the clarity of each narrative by chapter presentation and font format. As the secrets of the cabins have come to light, there are fascinating pieces of history tucked into the storyline. Favorites during Cabin Seven’s reveal are interesting highlights of stamps, the U.S. Forest Service, stories of dogwood trees, John Muir, and The Blackstone Hotel and Marshall Field and Company in Chicago. Socks and Jezebel’s feline pawprints are not as frequent on the pages of Book 3, but their companionship and cuddle time add sweetness when they appear.

I’ve loved the beautiful pen and ink drawings included in each book. In Book 3, drawings include The Cabins, Hudson and Constance’s Living Room and Family Room, and Celeste’s Duesenberg. The Author’s Note is a combination of her inspiration, acknowledgments, news of upcoming novels, movies filmed at Lake Arrowhead, and a list of favorite places to visit in Lake Arrowhead.

Thank you to Chrysteen Braun and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book.

#TheStarletInCabinNumberSeven #NetGalley… (mehr)

This is an entertaining novel. The characters are well-drawn and believable. I found Annie particularly easy to relate to; she’s sympathetic and likeable but she makes mistakes like most people. The author described her interior voice quite well, especially the guilt she experiences after a disastrous fling with a wealthy client.

The author’s description of the cabins in the mountains was vivid; I felt like I was there. Her meticulous historical research, along with the lovely drawings at the end, help bring the stories in this book to life.… (mehr)

In the spring of 1981, Annie was enjoying her new ownership of 7 cabins as a bed and breakfast in Arrowhead, California. Annie had purchased the property from Sam Jackson, a widower that once owned the property with his wife. Grayson Underwood, one of Annie's interior design clients, had a new project to pitch and tested Annie's relationship with Noah Chambers.

I love the literary atmosphere of the author's storytelling. Narration in the past and present become meaningful as a woman's reflections in the present are sometimes quite different when the thoughts are past reminisces. I enjoyed Book 2 even more than Book 1 as the author blended history with her creativity to instill a fascinating account of occupants that once stayed in Cabin Number 3. Have you ever heard of Bugsy Siegel? I'm so glad that Sam has continued to be a vital part of welcoming guests and serving as the property historian, as he adds to the interest during Annie's investigation of earlier guests in the cabins. Jezebel and Socks, one of Jezebel's kittens, add the adorable factor.

Drawings at the end of the novel complement the reader's experience. The Author's Note provides an interesting background to the inspiration for Book 2 and more. I encourage readers to visit the author's beautiful website to read about the author's professional and living experiences and the exquisite gallery of photographs, all of which authenticate Annie's profession and the trilogy setting.… (mehr)