Words Spoken True - Book Review

Words Spoken True, by Ann Gabhart, is making its debut as we speak. I have had the privilege of meeting this lovely author and am happy to feature a review today, and a fun interview with her on Thursday. Ann's generously offered a copy of Words Spoken True for a giveaway, so be sure and check out the details below.

Adriane Darcy has a nose for news. Growing up at her father’s side in the pressroom of the Tribune has helped hone her ability to write and report the latest happenings in Louisville, KY.  Miss Adriane is anything but your typical 1855 society flower. She goes through the polite and expected motions, of course, but she’s not averse to disguising as a man and hiding in the shadows at crime scenes to get a scoop.

Blake Garrett’s senses are attuned to the news as well, having worked as a journalist in New York City before relocating to Louisville. He’s well known about town as the controversial editor of the Herald newspaper. Adriane and Garrett haven't met yet, but naturally, each one is curious about the other since the Herald and Tribune have long been rivals. 

Adriane and Blake finally meet at a fundraiser, and although both resist it, sparks seem to fly, much to the chagrin of Adriane’s intended, Stanley Jimson. Jimson is the milquetoast son of a local candidate for senator. Adriane is a reluctant party to the engagement, and struggles to keep her head above water amongst the rising tide of wedding plans and society’s expectations.

Meanwhile, Garrett works to investigate the mystery of the River Slasher, a ruthless killer who has claimed the lives of several young Irish women. Blake also targets Jimson’s father’s campaign in his editorials, for he senses corruption is afoot. Garrett's father, a newspaperman as well, raised him to stand up for the truth.

Blake and Adriane are thrown together in social and other unexpected circumstances, and despite Adriane’s wariness at consorting with this rival editor, they form a cautious friendship. As Stanley and Adriane’s wedding date draws near, the city’s political unrest escalates into a near frenzy. Trials and sorrow follow, and even allies cannot be trusted.

Words Spoken True is a departure from Ann’s normal fare, so I wasn't sure what to expect. I am happy to say, though, that I enjoyed it very much. Ann creates engaging characters and paints a picture of historical Louisville that surrounds and entertains the reader. She is indeed a talented writer.

I liked the main players immediately, and found their strengths and flaws believable and similar to my own. Were there twists and turns? Oh my, yes! This book was hard to put down. I was riveted by one scene in particular, and admired Ann’s ability to pull it off so seamlessly. I give it two thumbs up!

Giveaway Details

• You must be a follower and leave a comment, with email address, on this post.
• Gain bonus entries (+1 each) by commenting on Thursday's interview post, sharing this on Facebook, your blog, and/or Twitter. Please include link with your comment where applicable.
• Open to residents of the United States.
• Deadline to enter is midnight EST, Friday, February 24, 2012. Winner will be notified via email and will have 36 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. Winner will be announced Monday, February 27.

Don't forget to stop back on Thursday for the interview with Ann Gabhart! 

Are there any events in your area's history that would make a good fictional story?

Blessings,

 Karen