It was an era in which women had few rights and even less say in their own lives. Annabelle was cast aside by one husband, and then forced to wed again after her stagecocach was ambushed by robbers who handcuffed her to the only other passenger, a man of questionable reputation. Though wealthy, Harrison’s lifestyle compels the authorities to force a marriage to save Annabelle’s reputation. But unbeknownst to all, her reputation is already ruined because of her previous secret divorce. Assured by Harrison the sham marriage would be be dissolved as soon as they arrived back home and he consults his lawyers, Annabelle is relieved. But things don’t quite work out that simply. This interesting tale is not a typical romance, but illustrates how much women were controlled by men, both by those in power and by those who claimed they were only protecting the women they loved. ( )

NCLA Review -The Christian message of trusting our lives to God is almost lost in this too trite story. Not only is the story of two strangers handcuffed together after a stagecoach robbery difficult to imagine, but their forced marriage is more so. Accepting that premise, the plot then follows with much predictability. The man is handsome, rich and totally self-centered; the woman is petite, beautiful, educated and good. They are in a forced marriage where divorce is the only recourse. Of course love triumphs in the end. Some editing errors are very obvious—a cloak taken off and then referred to as still on, for example. The author has a beautiful message that is buried in characters that are too one-dimensional. With persistence, the reader will find the author’s intent at the end of the book. Rating: 2 —JD ( )

First of all, I was very taken by the cover. Typically this kind of fiction has the same basic cover: a young woman, made up to look like she lived in a certain historical period, holding some sort of prop and smiling saucily at the camera, or if it is even older fiction- her head may be entirely chopped off! I liked this picture- it made me curious about what the book was about. (And I thought the model had a striking resemblance to Kate Hudson).This was a very enjoyable read. It had a predictable plot- but not in a way that made it unpleasant to read. It felt fresh and different from other Christian novels I have read recently. The author made Annabelle strong- without coming off as arrogant or stubborn. It was very nice to read a book that had no "secret agenda" about how women don't need anyone to save them. Annabelle was strong, wise, and independent without lessening the male characters.I found the plot to be paced well- and I couldn't put it down!On a side note- the last book from the author that I read, "Love's First Bloom" I did not enjoy at all. I am very pleased to say that this book has completely changed my mind about the author and I will be coming back for more!You can find out more about the author, Delia Parr, here. I received this book for free for review from Bethany House. I do not guarantee a positive review, however, I do promise an honest one. ( )

After reading Hearts Awakening, Delia Parr was poised to be one of my new favorite writers. I was dismayed but not dissuaded by her scant three novels that piqued my interest, might I add I most certainly judge a book by its cover while ordering online. Quickly ordering the other two, as I had already read one of the three, I was more than excited to receive Hidden Affections a few days prior. It was my genre of choice, historical fiction, with a pair of lovers who brought together by unfortunate circumstances fail to realize, and struggle against, their strong feelings for one another. I do not pretend that this is a deeply intellectual read, nor did I expect it to be. However, this latest novel by Ms. Parr lacked some of the finesse of her other novel which I can quickly devoured. The characters fell flat for me, they lacked the originality I found in Hearts Awakening and the story seemed to fall into the same old plot lines I had seen before. Formulaic, if you will.

This novel also was heavily saturated with Christian references and bible verses. I am by no means opposed to a spiritual read, but only if it is sprinkled in. There is only so much I can take, a faith so unbroken by time can come across as unbelievable if its strength is unwavering. Even those who have such a strong connection with God find themselves facing doubt every now and again. Also, the main character Annabelle was too... dare I say it, good? I like flaws, they make the story interesting. She had none, or at least none that were noteworthy. Even her scandalous past was blamed upon another. Annabelle was young, gorgeous and inherently goodhearted.

Would I recommend it? I suppose. But I'm disappointed Ms. Parr, I know you could do better. And I am sorely upset I splurged and bought this full priced, I have found much better bargain books. ( )

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It had a very unique beginning to the story and kept my attention all the way through. I like the writing style of Delia Parr.

Annabelle finds herself married to Harrison Graymoor (and how it happens was quite interesting). Neither one of them plan to stay married, but must, for appearances, look happily married until the annullment comes through. So you have two very determined individuals, who are forced into a situation, who are both trying very hard not to like each other and definately NOT to fall in love.

I appreciated Annabelle and her desire to "befriend" everyone; the servants, staff and even the down and out. Her motto for life pretty much summed up how she tried to live, "If you live a life centered on the love God has for you, He'll always give you the strenth to embrace love and the courage and grace to face all the disappointments that life can hurl at you." I also liked how Harrison tried to be uncaring, but secretly he was always doing something nice. And I loved the head housekeeper at Graymoor Gardens - she was a dear lady, who didn't mind speaking her mind! There was heartaches, secrets and sadness, but alot of caring and love throughout the book and I enjoyed every minute of it. I want to thank Bethany House Publishers for sending me this book for review. I could have chosen several other books, but I must say the cover drew me to this one. Great job! ( )