The Spark of Love by Amanda Cabot is a sweet historical romance paired with mystery and a bit of suspense.
Book Blurb
When a spurned suitor threatens her, heiress Alexandra Tarkington flees New York for Mesquite Springs in the Texas Hill Country, where her father is building a hotel. But the happy reunion she envisions is not to be as her father insists she return to New York. Instead, Alexandra carves out a niche for herself in town, teaching schoolchildren to paint and enjoying the company of Gabe Seymour, a delightful man she met on the stagecoach.
But all is not as it seems. Two men, each with his own agenda, have followed her to Mesquite Springs. And Gabe is an investigator, searching for proof that her father is a swindler. When a series of apparent accidents threaten her life, Alexandra and Gabe will have to work together to discover the truth. And perhaps along the way they will discover that the sparks of attraction they’ve felt from the beginning are more than sparks–they’re love.
My Thoughts
While I did not enjoy The Spark of Love as much as I’ve enjoyed other Amanda Cabot books, I still consider it a good read.
Gabe is a solid hero with a sense of integrity and a backstory that explains his actions and thought process. Alexandra’s determination and insecurities make her a relatable heroine who is easy to root for.
Those this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I have not read the previous books but was able to follow along. I am intrigued, though, and would not mind reading the other two books now that I’ve been introduced to the characters.
The mystery aspect was compelling, and Cabot managed to build some suspense. While providing the antagonists’ viewpoints did up the suspense, some of the scenes showing their thought process were so short, I found myself wondering if they could have been cut. I’ve decided that, overall, the scenes did help move the book along and give the reader insight into why the villains acted the way they did. For me, though, the most compelling mystery was the truth behind Alexandra’s father.
There’s also some great discussions about faith, belonging to God, and dealing with anger and vengeance. Alexandra’s spiritual arc hit me the most, and I think several readers will find hers relatable.
Overall, The Spark of Love is a sweet story historical romance fans will love.
(Note: I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley to review. All opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to post a positive review.)
Further Information
To grab your copy of The Spark of Love, click the book cover image above or visit your favorite book retailer.
And for more on Amanda Cabot, visit her website. You can also follow her on Facebook and Twitter.
