A Lasting Impression by Tamera Alexander

Back Cover:  Claire Laurent's greatest aspiration is to paint something that will bring her acclaim. Yet her father insists she works as a copyist. A forger. When she's forced to flee her home, her path collides with attorney Sutton Monroe, who shows her kindness by not turning her in to authorities. But when he later refuses to come to her aid, Claire fears she's sorely misjudged him. Finding herself among the elite of Nashville society, Claire believes her dream of creating a lasting impression in the world of art is within reach - but only if her past remains hidden.
 
The Federal Army destroyed Sutton's home, confiscated his land, and now threatens to destroy his family's honor. His determination to reclaim what belongs to him reveals a truth that may cost him more than he ever imagined - as well as the woman he loves.
 
Set in Nashville's historic Belmont Mansion, a stunning antebellum manor built be Adelicia Acklen, "A Lasting Impression", is a sweeping love story about a nation mending after war, the redemption of those wounded, and the courage of a man and woman to see themselves - and each other - for who they truly are.


Review: This is a review I've looked forward to writing. A Lasting Impression was my favourite read this month. I recently started reading Tamera Alexander's novels, and I have quickly become a fan. Her dialogue is so believable and her ability to write from multiple perspectives truly enhances every novel she writes. I sincerely enjoyed getting to know both Claire and Sutton and reading their story. The wonderful and detailed descriptions of Belmont Mansion made me want to visit one day. 'The Lady', Adelicia Acklen, was amazingly written. The novel is just as much about Lady Acklen as it is about Claire and Sutton. The events that Lady Acklen lived though, and somehow managed to flourish despite of, are incredible. Another point I enjoyed about this novel was the forgery plot that drove the story along. A romance writer by trade, Tamera did a credible job of weaving a political angle into the story along with an undercurrent of mystery. An entertaining read - great for decompressing after a hard day's work!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group"