Quarter Finalist
Assessment:
Plot: Carr’s fast-paced and tumultuous work of romantic historical fiction begins with the physical and bloodthirsty pursuit of heroine Soleil's cruel and lustful guardian, before evolving into a caring and passionate love story.
Prose: The author's prose relies heavily upon a multitude of poetic devices, especially similes and metaphors. The author’s attention to emotional detail, be it the caustic dialogue of the antagonists or the tender interactions between the lovers, is certain to resonate with readers.
Originality: While in some respects, a traditional story of love lost and found, the historical setting lends the narrative an unusual atmosphere. Additionally, Carr's careful exploration of emotional wounds is unique.
Character Development: Thoughtful, well-conceived characterizations allow readers to respond viscerally to the events in the novel.
Date Submitted: August 06, 2018
Carr (Divorce Wars) delivers a poignant message about the meaning of freedom in the first Cost of Love historical. Carr wastes no time in vividly setting up Soleil’s dramatic and hard-hitting plight as a former slave in 1860s Alabama. After defending herself against a vicious attack by her enslaver, 22-year-old Soleil flees with her five-year-old-daughter, Hope. They are rescued by 25-year-old Alex Cummings, a powerful white plantation owner who recognizes the confused woman as Soleil Dufor, his former love interest, who mysteriously disappeared six years earlier. Soleil is a formidable and sympathetic protagonist whose role as a mother makes her both resilient and vulnerable to those threatening their freedom. Even as Soleil’s connections to wealth and her history with Alex are gradually revealed, the tension remains high as Soleil battles prejudice against former slaves and loopholes in emancipation. The message about freedom not always being simple is significant and well conveyed without being preachy or overstated. French-speaking readers may be distracted by inaccuracies in Soleil’s use of the French language, but the writing is otherwise smooth. This well-told historical romance is intense and powerful. (BookLife)
