Noela Nancarrow reviews LILACS FOR JULIANA by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Lilacs for Juliana

by Carrie Fancett Pagels

Hearts Overcoming Press (August 15, 2015)

Reviewed by Noela Nancarrow

5 Stars *****

Lilacs, Lumberjacks, and Love!

Set in 1891, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula where towering pines and scented lilacs dominate, Book Three of The Christy Lumber Camp series sees new boss Richard (Moose) Christy readying his first lumber camp. This captivating tale holds promises of new beginnings for Richard in life, love, and work… but will it all come crashing down around him like the felling of the mighty pines?

Scents of leather-bound volumes, ink-print, and paper, surround Juliana Beauchamps, the petite dark-haired Head Librarian. It was here in the library that the vibrant Juliana first met the colossal lumberjack Richard, whom the children imagined was a folklore character come to life. He not only made a huge impression upon the children but also on Juliana, who began to yearn for him to ask her to the upcoming Lumberjack’s Ball. 

Richard begins to realize he has strong feelings for the pretty librarian after he nearly lost her in a shocking incident, but with so many obstacles between them including a much wealthier and suspicious potential suitor, Juliana’s mixed signals, an age difference, and lilacs… Can it be possible for them to find happiness and a life together? 

Author Carrie Fancett Pagels sweeps the reader up in a tale rife with love and longing, faith and forgiveness, and smiles and sighs. Weaving tension throughout the plot was the mean-spirited Library Board Trustee, Mr. Hatchens, who because he was against female Librarians, tormented Juliana frequently. Oh but it was such sweet justice to see the mighty ‘Moose’ stand up to this weasel in defense of his library lady!  ‘Lilacs for Juliana’ is immersed in vivid historical details from the geography down to the furniture and food, giving not only great insight to this booming era but also in painting every scene in realistic colours, scents, and sounds. A wonderfully enchanting, page-turning story!!

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'Lilacs for Juliana' is available on AMAZON in e-book format and available soon in print!

GIVEAWAY: In celebration of Carrie's wonderful new release, I'm giving away an e-book copy to one blessed commenter! To be eligible please leave your email address with (at) and (dot) to protect yourself against spammers.