Summary: For Elise by Sarah M. Eden
In the sprawling gardens of their
neighboring estates, childhood friends Miles and Elise spent countless pleasant
days together in the spirited adventures of youth. They were inseparable—until
Elise vanished without a trace. Miles searched, but Elise could not—or would
not—be found . . . After years spent laboring on the family plantation in the
West Indies, Miles Linwood is shocked by the unexpected news: he has inherited
his distant cousin’s estate and the title of Marquess of Grenton. Miles’s
return to England is tarnished by only one thing—he is still haunted by Elise’s
mysterious disappearance. So when he glimpses a woman with a startling
resemblance to his lost friend, he’s shaken to the core. This is no mere shadow
of the past: it is truly Elise. But his dear friend has changed—to the point
that he questions whether it is really her, though he knows it is. Accustomed
to rescuing Elise from childhood escapades, Miles takes her and those in her
care back to his estate, even as he struggles to understand her fear and
mistrust. As their friendship and feelings slowly blossom again, the shocking
truth of their separated years is revealed, and Miles realizes more than ever
that he must protect Elise. She slipped away once, and he cannot lose her again (from
Amazon).
Book Review: For Elise by Sarah M. Eden
When his father is murdered Miles Linwood is the
overwhelmed heir to an estate in financial ruin. He is not able to prevent
his close friend Elise Furlong’s disappearance. When he finds her again she is totally
transformed and unable to trust him.
For Elise is a standalone novel by Sarah M. Eden, published by Covenant Communications. The story is set in Cheshire, England 1815 and is about Miles Lindwood, Marquess of Grenton who enjoyed a happy childhood with his neighbor and inseparable friend Elise Fulong. During the upheaval after the murder of both their fathers, Elise goes missing. Miles searches for her for years until he happens upon her in a little town. She appears totally transformed and lives in poverty with her mother-in-law and 3 year old daughter. When Miles tries to treat her like a long lost friend she does not trust him, but to better her daughter’s life she agrees to come live on his estate. Elise struggles to feel safe while the murderer is still out there and to trust Miles with the truth of what really happened. Miles gets help with investigating the murder a second time, while the criminal seems to be threateningly close.
Main character Miles Linwood, Marquess of Grenton seems a very caring person who gets overwhelmed with the consequences and responsibilities following his father’s death. He seems to have an admirable determination to get Elise to open up.
Secondary character Elise Furlong Jones is a lady who has
suffered great loss and come through it with noticeable scars. Her character
touches my heart as she struggles to deal with seemingly impossible circumstances.
She is my favorite character of this story.
For Elise includes Sarah M. Eden’s signature writing which
I love so much and the captivating plots she creates. This story stands out as
it starts with the triple murder where Elise was present. It deals with how the
loss of their fathers affect Elise and Miles’ lives and relationship. As there
is a second murder investigation, drama builds up a second time.
My favorite part of the story was the murder-mystery where Elise got shot and wounded. I enjoyed how I was kept wondering through the whole story who the murderer might be, his connection to the family and what motive he could possibly have had.
My least favorite part of the story was how Miles was forced
to treat Elise like an acquaintance to avoid rumors below stairs and among
neighbors. With my modern-day glasses on I felt angry Elise had this unnecessary
burden added to her already fragile state, but I thoroughly appreciated it as a
dramatic element.
The ending to this story was dramatic and surprising as my suspicions
were on a red herring. Miles and Elise managed through all the drama to rebuild
their relationship into a romantic one.
Conclusion: The dramatic and
romantic story of a triple murder, a disappearance and rekindling of a relationship.
This would be the perfect read for anyone who enjoys historical romance with a murder
mystery element. Similar authors to explore might be Josi S. Kilpack or
Jennifer Moore. All opinions in this review are completely my own.
Rating: 5 stars / 5
Main reasons: great plot that stands out, signature fabulous writing, well crafted characters
Get your copy here:
Barnes & Noble e-book (NOOK book)
Book Details
Paperback: 272 pages
Publisher: Covenant Communications Inc. (September 2, 2014)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1621087875
ISBN-13: 978-1621087878
About The Author
Sarah M. Eden is a USA Today Bestselling author of witty and charming historical romances, including Foreword Review’s 2019 INDIES Award finalists The Heart of a Vicar and The Lady and the Highwayman, and 2020 Holt Medallion finalist Healing Hearts. Combining her obsession with history and affinity for tender love stories, Sarah loves crafting witty characters and heartfelt romances set against rich historical backdrops. She holds a Bachelor's degree in research and happily spends hours perusing the reference shelves of her local library. Sarah lives with her husband, kids, and mischievous dog in the shadow of a snow-capped mountain she has never attempted to ski. https://www.sarahmeden.com/
