3 out of 4 stars
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Having read the third book in her Jeweled Dagger Series, I resolved myself to read the two other books in the series. After reading Isabella’s Heart, the second book in this historical romance series, I must say Author Diane Merrill Wigginton exceeded my expectations yet again. In this action-packed stand-alone romance novel, Wigginton showcased the strength of sibling and family bonds, love, and the triumph of good over evil.
On the eve of her 19th birthday, Isabella Deveraux experiences an unsettling dream about her twin brother, Charlie. In her dream, five unknown men kidnapped Charlie and two of his friends. With the help of an Irish mercenary, her sixth sense as well as her deep connection with her twin brother, Isabella sets out on a perilous journey to find and rescue Charlie. However, in the presence of a handsome and mysterious captain, Isabella fears she may find Charlie but lose her heart.
Aiden Townsend is a brooding man. After a tragic loss, he chose to trade his comfortable life and live as a captain of a mercenary ship. When Isabella’s grandfather hired him to help in search of three young noblemen, he knew it was a mistake. The last thing he wanted was to babysit a young lady on an Irish tour. Still, Isabella’s beauty and audacity fascinate him. His proposition to pretend as lovers to travel in Ireland inconspicuously may just be his undoing.
Isabella’s Heart is a rollercoaster of emotions. Written in Isabella’s perspective, readers can easily connect with her character. I laughed and cried with her. I wished for her safety and rooted for her success. She is my favorite character. She is brave and stubborn, yet somehow, this stubbornness adds to her charm. Her love for Charlie pushes her beyond her limits. Isabella’s journey to rescue her twin brother is not for the faint of heart. It is not a wonder why Aiden fell for her. A caution to some readers: those who favor stories of damsels in distress and knights in shining armor will be disappointed. After all, dear Isabella has no patience to wait for a prince or a knight to save her.
The novel also has an excellent storyline. Just when I thought I had it all figured out, another twist comes along. There was enough unpredictability to leave me wanting more.
The only concern I have lies in the editing. I noted many errors that could be easily corrected by a professional editor. For example, “half way” should be “halfway” and “brother in law” should be “brother-in-law”. Needless to say, the number of errors was enough to distract me from my reading.
Considering all points mentioned above, I award Isabella’s Heart by Diane Merrill Wigginton 3 out of 4 stars. Readers of historical romance with a paranormal twist will surely find delight in this novel.
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Isabella's Heart
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