I received a copy of Cider Brook by Carla Neggers in exchange for an honest review.Review:Never one to disappoint, Carla Neggers delivers a beautifully spun tale of pirate intrigue and biological impulse in this delicious Cider Brook novel. From the very first pages, Neggers pulls you into the scene, painting a vivid New England backdrop full of history, romance and possibilities. Of course, I may be prejudice, as I admit, I haven’t read a Carla Neggers’ novel that I didn’t like yet; so that may clue you into my own personal reading taste. But that said, the reason I love this novel—as all of her others—is because of the tightness of the story web that she weaves and the three dimensional world she creates. And the little unexpected catch that makes this book more than romance but a quest. What could be more exciting or dangerous than pirates’ booty? Perhaps the prospect of falling in love. In the midst of family traditions, a 300-year-old mystery and a burgeoning love affair, Samantha and Justin must discover what really matters in Cider Brook. And I loved every page of it!(As posted on ChiclitPlus.com) I thought this was an interesting read. Samantha Bennett, is a treasure hunter, and stumbles upon an old painting and a story involving a private and an aristocrat lady. Sam goes back to old stomping grounds, where she had been caught snooping that cost her a job with Duncan McCaffrey; for not sharing that information with him. Her reasonings weren't as dire as her former boss and those around him thought. Returning to Knights Bridge, Sam breaks into an old Cider Mill to get out of a severe storm and ends up having to be rescued by the owner, Justin Sloan, when lightning caused a fire. Justin was the carpenter, that spotted Sam all those years ago and reported her to Duncan. Little by little pieces fall together and a mystery is unraveled.I didn't find the part of Sam being caught and all the suspicion surrounding her to be all that important to the story. Also, my impression about Loretta, an attorney, who had a very short romantic relationship with Duncan McCaffrey; is one where she is overtly distrustful of Sam. Loretta makes a trip back to Knights Bridge, just to check up on Samantha. The meeting is friendly and they like one another. I felt too much emphasis was placed on Sam being caught, when it didn't seem to add depth to the story in my opinion. Hence the four star rating.Other than that, I enjoyed the pirate mystery, how it evolved along with the development of Sam and Justin's relationship.
What do You think about Cider Brook (2014)?
I love a little romance, a little adventure all mixed in with a bit of mystery!
—Mammamea
This series is improving with each book.
—kimboslice
