I am enjoying this Romance at the Gilded Age series. Each book is a stand-alone and takes us away to the summer resorts that the wealthy enjoy. This story finds Amanda Klein seeking consultation for her bruised heart in Newport New Jersey. I loved that Wesley amidst the scandal chose to seek the truth and prove to his love that things are not as they appear. Shrouded in mystery you will enjoy trying to figure out who is behind the deceit and why. A sweet romance with some elements that leave you smiling, secrets that are uncovered, faith that gives strength, and finding where our worth comes from. I loved the banter between the characters and found this to be a solid, quick read. A beautiful cover invites you in to quickly immerse yourself till the last page.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required. ( )

What I think you should know:
A Summer on Bellevue Avenue by Lorri Dudley is part of the Romance at Gilded Age Resort Series. The books are standalone. This book is set in Newport Rhode Island in the summer of 1895. It features heiress Amanda Klein and her suitor Wesley Jansen.

What I think about this book:
This was such an intriguing story I always enjoy stepping back in time to read about such a romanticized era. Dudley is one of my go to authors so i did not hesitate when given the opportunity to read this book. It exceeded all of my expectations. Amanda was born into the world of the elite, but after scandal she was raised in a simple life by her governess. When she is thrust back into society she struggles to know who to trust. Wesley is determined to prove his innocence and above all his genuine love for Amanda, but when unknown forces are working against them it is an uphill battle. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I look forward to reading more from the series and the author.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own. ( )

In the enchanting realm of Christian Historical Romance, Lorri Dudley invites readers on a heart-stirring journey with her latest novel, “A Summer on Bellevue Avenue.” Nestled within the pages of this captivating tale is the story of Amanda Mae Klein, a wealthy heiress who discovers her soulmate in Wesley Jansen. Their love is an oasis of tranquility, with Wesley being the anchor that soothes Amanda’s anxiety in social interactions.

However, the idyllic narrative turns dark when an ominous force seeks to shatter the blissful union between Amanda and Wesley. The tranquility of their love is disrupted by a shocking event that leads to Wesley being accused of a grievous crime. As the shadows of suspicion loom over him, Amanda’s world crumbles and the foundation of their love is put to the ultimate test.

What follows is a gripping tale of resilience, faith, and the unyielding power of love in the face of adversity. Dudley skillfully navigates through the intricacies of the plot, unveiling secrets and introducing unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The story captures the imagination and resonates with the profound message of enduring love and the triumph of faith.

One of the standout elements of “A Summer on Bellevue Avenue” is Dudley’s ability to weave a narrative that seamlessly combines a rich historical backdrop with the nuanced development of characters. Amanda’s journey, in particular, is a testament to the strength that lies within as she confronts challenges that threaten to dismantle the love she holds dear. The characters are expertly crafted, their personalities leaping off the pages and imprinting themselves on the reader’s heart.

The author’s mastery of storytelling is evident as she creates a world that is both immersive and poignant. The delicate dance between love and adversity is beautifully choreographed, drawing readers deeper into the characters’ emotions. Dudley’s prose is eloquent, painting vivid scenes that transport readers to a bygone era while still making the characters’ struggles relevant and relatable.

I was engrossed in “A Summer on Bellevue Avenue” from the first page to the last. The magnetic pull of the storyline and the well-rounded characters left me unable to put the book down until I reached a satisfying conclusion. Dudley’s ability to blend romance, historical elements, and Christian faith in a seamless tapestry is commendable and sets this novel apart in the genre.

In conclusion, if you seek a Christian Historical Romance that combines passion, faith, and a riveting plot, “A Summer on Bellevue Avenue” by Lorri Dudley is a must-read. My review is unbiased, as I received a complimentary copy of the book, but rest assured, all opinions expressed are genuinely my own. Embrace the love story that transcends trials and tribulations, and embark on a journey through the corridors of history with Amanda and Wesley as your guides.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own. ( )

What an exciting story this was with intrigue, greed and misunderstandings. I liked how Wesley never gave up on proving his innocence and trying to win the love of his life back. Talk about being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Wesley is working hard at night getting his paperwork completed in order to propose marriage. He is overcome with stress and fatigue and falls asleep at his desk. A shrill scream awakens him as he finds an unconscious woman at the bottom of the stairs to his office. I appreciate his integrity to try to help the woman yet it caused him to bring doubt on his honor. Who is this woman and why was she at his office late at night?

Amanda is excited knowing that soon Wesley will ask for her hand in marriage. She adores him and can’t wait to start their lives together. She comes from a wealthy family but she never uses her wealth to gain acceptance. In fact she doesn’t really like the limelight especially after the scandal about her mother. When Amanda is suddenly whisked away by family in the early morning hours, she has no time to really digest what is happening. She is finally told of what transpired between Wesley and the unknown woman. I loved how she knew in her heart that Wesley would never betray her.

The story does take on a mystery when Amanda and Wesley’s lives are in danger. Someone doesn’t want them to get married. What would this person gain if the marriage did not take place ? The author does a good job of leaving little hints throughout the story of who was behind everything yet I was still surprised by who it turned out to be. I loved the time period and how two people showed great resilience in the face of adversity. Rumors and more rumors tried to ruin reputations as greed starts to take over someone’s thinking. The story is a nice illustration of trust and standing up for others. In the end, truth always prevails.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. ( )

“God has prepared you for this moment. Go and bloom where you are planted, because He has tilled the soil.”

People are the same in any century. Lorri Dudley takes us back to New York City and Newport in 1895. We are invited into the lives of the rich and famous of the time. So many times we think if we just had more money, life would be simple. In her latest novel, A Summer on Bellevue Avenue, Dudley proves that money can’t buy happiness. In the space of a few hours, the future happiness of two of the ultra-rich, Wesley Astor Jansen and Amanda Klein, is tossed up in the air and contorted into suffering by those around them.

The big question becomes, how will each of them behave in these new, undesirable circumstances? Amanda is nearly thrown to the wolves in the summer playground for the wealthy, trying desperately to fit in, avoid the whispers, and the reminders of the past. Wesley tries hard to prove his innocence of sordid allegations, but evidence keeps mounting to the contrary.

I love how down-to-earth and kind both Amanda and Wesley are. They stand in sharp contrast to their social circle, which forbids becoming true friends with the servants or even treating them compassionately.

Katie is my favorite secondary character, as she reluctantly realizes Amanda’s gold heart and decides to trust her. Katie gives very solid, well-considered advice, unlike Amanda’s society mentor.

I love how Wesley rescues Amanda socially, but the biggest rescue was a change to her thinking. Amanda is very fearful of making a misstep in this elite society. Wesley uses an example to open her eyes to how that society really operates, freeing her to be who God made her to be. “The captain who taught me threw the crabs in a bucket—no lid or anything to keep them inside. I asked if they’d climb out, but the captain laughed and said to watch. As soon as one crab looked as though he was going to make it over the edge to his escape, the other little buggers pulled him back down into the bucket. According to the captain, not a single one had ever gotten away.”

“These are the crabs, and this gilded inner sanctum is the bucket. If someone gets too high within its walls, others will tear them down.”

Author’s notes at the end list some of the famous socialites of the time who are mentioned in the book and give a brief bio of each.

I recommend this historical romance for lovers of history, the Gilded Age, and any dealing with inferiority complexes.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought an ebook copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“A person’s value didn’t come from their bank account, bloodlines, or social connections. Their worth was determined by those they loved and who loved them in return and by God, who gave His son so they could have life.”

“I should warn you. Love makes a man weak.” “Vulnerable, yes, but love can also make a person stronger.”

“You’re a rose blooming in a thistle garden.” Katie smiled. “Show them not just the beauty on the outside but surprise them by what’s on your inside. My mama always says, ‘a little sugar makes bitter tea easier to drink.’” ( )