In the search for the truth, the line between fact and fiction is beginning to fall out of focus.
It is 1903, and Lily Temple is a beautiful silent-film actress who spins fairy tales and plays frivolous roles in front of the cine-camera. But beneath the costumes and stage makeup is a woman with a quick wit, a murky past, and a tantalizing secret.
Underground investigator to the wealthy, Peter Driscoll has been tasked with locating the legendary Briarwood Teardrop, an exquisite sapphire that has been missing for years--and which Lily happens to be wearing beneath her gown. In order to stay close to her and unravel the mystery, Peter employs the enchanting actress's help on a case.
But as they are investigating together, Peter is also investigating Lily. The closer he gets to the truth, the more danger they face. And the closer he gets to Lily, the clearer it becomes that he needs her even more than she needs him.
Read an excerpt on the publisher's website.
My Thoughts:
The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple by Joanna Davidson Politano commenced with a time jump (of sorts) that generated lingering confusion for me. I continually questioned how the pieces of the story could fit together while wondering if Lily was telling the truth. The novel has an appropriate title, and mystery lovers will likely enjoy the tangles and twists of the tale.
My favorite parts of The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple lay in its themes. Politano effectively demonstrated the power of story and the concept that our stories tend to come full circle. I loved the restoration theme as well as the tidbits about the soul's desire to return to its deep longings, whether it's a personal yearning or a universal desire shared by humanity. Such themes aren't often explored in Christian Fiction, and I found them refreshing.
Because I struggled to connect with Lily, The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple was not my favorite novel by Joanna Davidson Politano, but it was well-written and held depth without feeling heavy. For those who love fairy tales, the imagery and allusions will add delight. The story is best suited for readers who enjoy mystery, whimsy, and a slow burn romance.
It is 1903, and Lily Temple is a beautiful silent-film actress who spins fairy tales and plays frivolous roles in front of the cine-camera. But beneath the costumes and stage makeup is a woman with a quick wit, a murky past, and a tantalizing secret.
Underground investigator to the wealthy, Peter Driscoll has been tasked with locating the legendary Briarwood Teardrop, an exquisite sapphire that has been missing for years--and which Lily happens to be wearing beneath her gown. In order to stay close to her and unravel the mystery, Peter employs the enchanting actress's help on a case.
But as they are investigating together, Peter is also investigating Lily. The closer he gets to the truth, the more danger they face. And the closer he gets to Lily, the clearer it becomes that he needs her even more than she needs him.
Read an excerpt on the publisher's website.
My Thoughts:
The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple by Joanna Davidson Politano commenced with a time jump (of sorts) that generated lingering confusion for me. I continually questioned how the pieces of the story could fit together while wondering if Lily was telling the truth. The novel has an appropriate title, and mystery lovers will likely enjoy the tangles and twists of the tale.
My favorite parts of The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple lay in its themes. Politano effectively demonstrated the power of story and the concept that our stories tend to come full circle. I loved the restoration theme as well as the tidbits about the soul's desire to return to its deep longings, whether it's a personal yearning or a universal desire shared by humanity. Such themes aren't often explored in Christian Fiction, and I found them refreshing.
Because I struggled to connect with Lily, The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple was not my favorite novel by Joanna Davidson Politano, but it was well-written and held depth without feeling heavy. For those who love fairy tales, the imagery and allusions will add delight. The story is best suited for readers who enjoy mystery, whimsy, and a slow burn romance.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
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