Rowena Ballantyne had lived in Kentucky from the time she was born. Now it was just her father, as her mother had died. She was content with her home, enjoying the beautiful country side and helping her father make violins and bows. Wren, her nickname, was passionate about music and playing the violin. It brought her great joy. Their lives were simple and unfettered by the trappings of the world. She knew her father came from a very wealthy family, but it mattered nothing to her.
That is until he is summoned to family home by his father, Silas Ballantyne. Never having left her home, she is overwhelmed by the trip on a Ballantyne steam boat named after her, The Rowena. While the journey was trying for her, she was nowhere near prepared what she would face when they reached the family estate.. She is not only thrown into living with her family she never met, but also all the expectations and entrapments of high society. Her father makes the change with ease, stepping back into the life he once had. Thinking this is simply a visit, Wren soon learns that this is her new home.
She attempts to meet her new familys expectations and adapt to their ways, but she is a simple girl at heart. All the finery and airs are a burden. Her grandparents were both very sweet and unpretentious, unlike Silass haughty, overbearing sister Andra. Her Uncle Jack and Aunt Ellies big family and home were a welcome respite, especially her cousin Izzannah that was near her age. Andra is determined transform Wren into one of the aristocracy. Her purpose is to secure Wren a wealthy suitor to save their familys business and lavish lifestyle. Wrens wants nothing of it and yearns to be with James Sackett, a dear family friend and steamboat pilot. Along the way she learns of many secrets and dangers she must face. Will she yield to her aunts wishes or follow her heart?
I have not read the other 2 books in this series but now I certainly want to! This book stood alone. Each character was distinct and well developed. I learned so much about the wealthy during this time. I knew they had balls and were rather, what can I say, fake, but I never dreamed high society was so rigid and detailed to the point it was ridiculous. I loved the descriptions of Wrens attire and lavish gowns. I too felt weary as I read about all she was expected to do not only in dress, but also manners, conversation, and endless social events. I could feel her frustration with the senselessness of it all.
Wren was such a beautiful character. Even in the midst of such lavishness, she maintained her character and she was not swayed nor impressed my all the pomp and glitter. Her values remained intact. Wrens compassion and concern for people no matter where they were on the social ladder was foremost. This book was well written and a very enjoyable read!
I received this book free from Revell Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
That is until he is summoned to family home by his father, Silas Ballantyne. Never having left her home, she is overwhelmed by the trip on a Ballantyne steam boat named after her, The Rowena. While the journey was trying for her, she was nowhere near prepared what she would face when they reached the family estate.. She is not only thrown into living with her family she never met, but also all the expectations and entrapments of high society. Her father makes the change with ease, stepping back into the life he once had. Thinking this is simply a visit, Wren soon learns that this is her new home.
She attempts to meet her new familys expectations and adapt to their ways, but she is a simple girl at heart. All the finery and airs are a burden. Her grandparents were both very sweet and unpretentious, unlike Silass haughty, overbearing sister Andra. Her Uncle Jack and Aunt Ellies big family and home were a welcome respite, especially her cousin Izzannah that was near her age. Andra is determined transform Wren into one of the aristocracy. Her purpose is to secure Wren a wealthy suitor to save their familys business and lavish lifestyle. Wrens wants nothing of it and yearns to be with James Sackett, a dear family friend and steamboat pilot. Along the way she learns of many secrets and dangers she must face. Will she yield to her aunts wishes or follow her heart?
I have not read the other 2 books in this series but now I certainly want to! This book stood alone. Each character was distinct and well developed. I learned so much about the wealthy during this time. I knew they had balls and were rather, what can I say, fake, but I never dreamed high society was so rigid and detailed to the point it was ridiculous. I loved the descriptions of Wrens attire and lavish gowns. I too felt weary as I read about all she was expected to do not only in dress, but also manners, conversation, and endless social events. I could feel her frustration with the senselessness of it all.
Wren was such a beautiful character. Even in the midst of such lavishness, she maintained her character and she was not swayed nor impressed my all the pomp and glitter. Her values remained intact. Wrens compassion and concern for people no matter where they were on the social ladder was foremost. This book was well written and a very enjoyable read!
I received this book free from Revell Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Ever since I read Loves Reckoning, I have anxiously awaited each new installment of The Ballantyne Legacy. These characters have become very dear to me and I have loved being a part of their lives and entering their world. I didnt think any of the books could be as good as Loves Reckoning by Loves Fortune blew me away and I think it took its place as my favorite book of the series.
Loves Fortune follows the story of Wren Ballantyne, granddaughter of Silas and Eden Ballantyne. Wren has grown up in a sheltered home in Kentucky. She knows little of her family in Pittsburgh other than that her grandfather possesses a great fortune. When her father is called to return home, Wren is swept away into the riches and chaotic world of Pittsburgh.
James Sackett is a steamship pilot for the Ballantynes shipping line. He is held in high esteem by all of the Ballantyne family. When Wren rides as a passenger on one of his trips, he cant help but be intrigued by this silent beauty.
James is chosen to escort Wren through her season in Pittsburgh but will Wren ever find a way to fit in to the high society around her?
Wren is such a loveable character and I couldnt help being drawn to her and sympathizing with her as she entered an unknown world. I loved her sweet nature and innocence.
James was definitely a swoon-worthy hero. I loved his attraction to Wren and kept hoping he would voice it to her, but of course, dear Laura drew the anticipation out.
Ms. Frantz, thank you for creating such beloved characters. I look forward to reading these books over and over again. They have most certainly earned a permanent spot on my shelf.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and publisher, Revell, in exchange for my honest opinion. I received no compensation for this review, nor was I required to write a positive review. All opinions stated are my own.
Leah B.
Must Love Books
mustlovereading.wordpress.com
Loves Fortune follows the story of Wren Ballantyne, granddaughter of Silas and Eden Ballantyne. Wren has grown up in a sheltered home in Kentucky. She knows little of her family in Pittsburgh other than that her grandfather possesses a great fortune. When her father is called to return home, Wren is swept away into the riches and chaotic world of Pittsburgh.
James Sackett is a steamship pilot for the Ballantynes shipping line. He is held in high esteem by all of the Ballantyne family. When Wren rides as a passenger on one of his trips, he cant help but be intrigued by this silent beauty.
James is chosen to escort Wren through her season in Pittsburgh but will Wren ever find a way to fit in to the high society around her?
Wren is such a loveable character and I couldnt help being drawn to her and sympathizing with her as she entered an unknown world. I loved her sweet nature and innocence.
James was definitely a swoon-worthy hero. I loved his attraction to Wren and kept hoping he would voice it to her, but of course, dear Laura drew the anticipation out.
Ms. Frantz, thank you for creating such beloved characters. I look forward to reading these books over and over again. They have most certainly earned a permanent spot on my shelf.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and publisher, Revell, in exchange for my honest opinion. I received no compensation for this review, nor was I required to write a positive review. All opinions stated are my own.
Leah B.
Must Love Books
mustlovereading.wordpress.com
Wren and James' story was a good read. Wren is a fish out of water in the high society of Pennsylvania and one of the famous Ballantyne's. James Sackett was taken under the family's wings and his relationship with them is what puts him in the position of helping Wren navigate her way through all of the responsibilities that are thrust upon her. I really enjoyed revisiting the Ballantyne family. Silas and Eden (from the first book in the series) are back but now they are grandparents and facing their own mortality. This was a good family legacy story.
