Trust. Pray. Believe

The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey by Carolyn Miller is a most delightful Christian historical romance which I adored. It is the third book in the Regency Brides series and can be read as a stand-alone. However for maximum enjoyment and to understand the character development, it would be best to read the previous two books.

Once again Carolyn Miller has spun a fabulous tale. There is adventure, jealousy, kidnap, revenge and good old fashioned love. Over it all there is God. A God who “answer[s] even unspoken prayers.” A God who is closer to us than we realise and who desires to know us.

The novel is about restoration, second chances and new beginnings. As characters come to know Jesus, they get their priorities in order. Life is not about money and power, it is about people and passion.

There is the theme of identity. “Who are you?” It is only in knowing Jesus that we can really find out who we are.

The tale is about sacrifice and selfless living, helping others who are less well off. “Focusing on something other than herself… was releasing.” We get joy from giving.

Forgiveness and guilt are dual themes. Past behaviour means we need to forgive ourselves and others.

Friendships are important. We all need friends who will build us up and not tear us down. Friends who will love us even when they hear the worst of us. “It is only when we are at our lowest that we realise our need for Someone higher.” When we reach rock bottom, we will find our Saviour waiting for us to love and restore us.

This Regency Brides series has been a cracking one, with fabulous storylines and wonderful characters. It has been an absolute pleasure to read. I have loved having a different character focus in each book, whilst retaining familiar characters on the periphery.

Roll on the next series from the new and highly talented Carolyn Miller.

I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

JULIA WILSON