Deeanne Gist's New Release 'It Happened at the Fair' Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

It Happened At The Fair

It Happened At The Fair

By Deeanne Gist

Howard Books, 2013

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

~5 stars~*****

Ever wondered what it would be like to have been a part of the very significant and famous 1893 Chicago World’s Fair? To be a part of the throng of millions that pervaded the massive grounds spread over 600 acres, featuring numerous mighty buildings of incredible architecture? To venture into these monumental buildings housing wonderfully innovative exhibits begging to be investigated? Or perhaps to experience and savor the fascinating international food and music? There are a myriad of surprises and adventures awaiting you, including the original gigantic Ferris Wheel built by George Ferris, and a visit with the notable Helen Keller. Then relax with a romantic gondola ride, gliding past the beautiful Wooded Island magnificently displaying nature’s splendor. If this appeals to you, then open up Deeanne Gist’s ‘It Happened at the Fair’ and you’ll be propelled to 1893 to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of an era that was on the cusp of discovering exciting new inventions and possibilities!

Cullen McNamara, a farmer on his family’s cotton farm, is unfortunately allergic to cotton seeds and suffers badly with swollen eyes, airways, and terribly tender and itchy skin. Which, simply put, is not a good thing when you’re a farmer! This unfortunate condition was the catalyst for his parents to ensure he received enough ‘book-learning’ that he might find other work. Cullen’s interests went in the direction of inventing which led to his creation of an automatic fire-sprinkler system. However, due to a flaw in an earlier design which had dire consequences, he shelved his invention and resigned himself to farming. His father had other ideas though, and before too long Cullen found himself right in the middle of the Chicago World’s Fair’s noisy Machinery Hall.

Della Wentworth, a beautiful, young but naïve woman, has been brought up by an overprotective father who taught her to be distrusting of men. So while Della is at the fair to teach deaf youngsters in the Children’s building, she cannot help but feel dubious of any man she meets, including Cullen who comes to request she teach him the art of lip-reading, so he may understand what people are saying in the incredibly noisy Machinery Hall. As they spend time together, their feelings secretly begin to grow toward each other, but in time they both find themselves up against issues of trust, betrayal, and unforgiveness. Can Cullen prove he is the man he says he is? More importantly, can he ever survive the seemingly impossible job of learning to lip-read by concentrating on the task without get mesmerized by her lips?

It Happened at the Fair by Deeanne Gist is not only a journey to a fascinating slice of history but allows you to dine on a memorable feast of delightful banter, commanding kisses, and exceptionally detailed and intriguing characters.  The historical research and input into this story is second to none and is a banquet of interesting information interwoven into a sweet and delectable romance, with a enticing dashes of drama and suspense along the way. An extra treat is the inclusion of actual pictures of the Fair which added a realism and presence to the story. Thank you Deeanne for this enthralling and irresistible story!

***** 

I received a free e-copy of this book from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions stated are my own.

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GIVEAWAY: A book by Deeanne Gist of your choice (e-book only for international winners.) Answer the question to be entered in the contest.

QUESTION: At Fairs or Amusement Parks that you have been to in the past, what was your favorite ride or exhibit, and what was your worst?

***NOELA IS VERY SICK TODAY, WE ARE ASKING FOR PRAYERS FOR HER AND HER HUSBAND AND THEIR SON. SHE WANTS YOU ALL TO KNOW SHE APPRECIATES YOUR COMMENTS AND SHE WILL COMMENT BACK TO YOU AS SOON AS SHE IS FEELING BETTER. SO PLEASE LEAVE HER A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT AND LET HER KNOW HOW MUCH WE LOVE AND MISS HER.***