They were prisoners of the past. Could legacy be the key to set them free?
Olivia Arroyo knows who she is and where she’s going—her sense of family responsibility a stepping-stone to her dream of becoming a chef. When her employer refuses her the chance to move from server to the kitchen, she makes another opportunity for herself with the owner of a new food truck. But her life derails when a hidden piece of her past suddenly comes to light, and she discovers everything she thought she knew about herself has been a lie.
A single decision can have innumerable consequences—a truth that has changed Adam Carrington’s life. A criminal defense attorney turned food truck owner, he is haunted by his role in an unpardonable act and driven by his need to make restitution. Unexpected help comes in the form of a feisty, raven-haired beauty, but she soon begins challenging his kitchen as well as his heart.
Florida, 1816
Propelled by a fleeting hope of freedom, Winnie and her family escape slavery and find refuge and new life with the Seminole Indians of Florida. But their future is still uncertain as threats of war, a return to slavery, and removal to the West shake their tentative grasp on freedom. Will they ever step out of the shadow of fear to leave a legacy of deliverance?
Sarah Monzon is a Navy chaplain’s wife and a stay at home mom to the two cutest littles in the world. Playing pretend all day with them isn’t enough, she spends the evenings after their heads hit the pillow to create her own imaginary characters. When she isn’t in the world of make believe, she can be found in the pine forests of western Washington taking care of her family, fostering friendships, and enjoying all the adventures each day brings.
Her debut novel, The Isaac Project, skyrocketed to Amazon bestseller status while her Sophomore book, Finders Keepers, won the 2017 SELAH award for contemporary romance.
My Impressions:
There has been quite a lot of buzz surrounding Sarah Monzon’s novels. I’ve seen nothing but praise on blogs and FB groups, so I knew I needed to check her out sooner rather than later. When offered an opportunity to read her latest novel, Freedom’s Kiss, I eagerly said yes! What I got was an intriguing dual time line novel with characters I absolutely fell in love with. The only problem I encountered was the long list of Monzon’s books that I now need to go back and read! This one is recommended!
Freedom’s Kiss is set in Florida — present day and 1816-1832. The contrast couldn’t be greater. Where there is now a bustling urban landscape was once scrub and swamp with little to support those who called it home. I loved the glimpse into a forgotten time in Florida’s history. For this Florida girl, I learned a lot about my home state that I missed somehow in school. The history of fugitive slaves and the Seminole people is fascinating. Added to this backdrop are two stories each with their own appeal. First you have Winnie, a former slave yearning to capture the elusive freedom she yearns for and modern-day Adam and Olivia who find each other and the purposes that God has for their lives. At first the two stories seemed unconnected, but I loved how Monzon joined them showing how one generation’s struggle can bring about another generation’s legacy. The female characters are strong and capable, but allow the male characters to support them in all the ways God intends. The relationships are refreshing in the way the couples complete each other. For fans of meaningful romance, Freedom’s Kiss is a big treat. Freedom’s Kiss is Christian fiction, and the author naturally weaves the character’s faith throughout. They may waiver and doubt, but God is seen as unchangeable, loving, and faithful. Another big takeaway for me was the importance of family, both those we are born with and those we are adopted into, especially God’s family.
Besides Freedom’s Kiss, which can be read as a standalone, there are two more books in the Carrington Family Romance series. I am eager to read more about this family created by this talented writer.
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
To purchase, click HERE.
(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
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