My Review of A Light in the Window

Here's a description of the book:

"One Woman. Two Men.

One stirs her pulse and the other her faith.

But who will win her heart?

Marceline Murphy is a gentle beauty with a well-founded aversion to rogues.

But when two of Boston's most notorious pursue her,

attraction, dreams and faith only muddle her mind.

Can the light in the window illuminate the path of true love?"

My Rating

Spring/Summer

My Review

A Light in the Window may be a bit "lighter" than the books in Julie Lessman's first two series ("Daughters of Boston" and "Winds of Change"), in the sense that it's a shorter read than her other stories and a tad less epic in scope, but it's a prequel not to be underestimated! For those who have never read any of Lessman's books, this one would be a great place to start, as the focus is only on one couple's journey to marriage - the catalyst for all six books in the aforementioned series. And for those who have read some or (especially) all of Lessman's books, this one is no less dramatic for knowing how it all ends. In fact, it's perhaps more moving to know the heartaches and grand blessings in store for Marceline and the man she marries.

Now, for a story about two rogues trying to win one faithful woman's heart, this has all the angst and emotion - as well as the not-so-smart choices - you'd expect. There is a great message about not judging others, but also being wise about whom you give your heart to; although I must say that I would like to have given Marcy the advice passed down to many a young woman: "Don't enter into a romantic relationship expecting to change the other person!" *sigh*

As for the seasonal aspect of this story, the play/fundraiser that Marcy and her best friend, Julie (I love that!), put together maintains the subtle Christmas theme throughout the pages. And all of the steps leading up to the production of the play (with the same title as the book) are conveyed in such a sweet, relatable, and big-hearted way with the help of some great secondary characters. So there's enough of the Christmas mood to provide a seasonal reading treat should you be looking for such. But really, the story goes about a half of a year's time, and the emphasis is on the tradition and symbolism of leaving a candle in the window, not so much on Christmas festivities - so this can be enjoyed any time of the year.

A Light in the Window is such a great read to bring Lessman's previous books together and provide a segue into new stories and characters in upcoming releases! It's more focused than many of her other books with its one love triangle and its consistent theme. And it can serve as a great introduction to Lessman's works - or a touching way to round out one's time with the O'Connor family.

*With thanks to the author for providing me with an e-copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

To Pre-Order the Book on Kindle: click HERE (releases November 9, 2012)

Contest!

 Click the image above to go to the contest page on Julie's website. Contest ends December 31, 2012.