A Lasting Impression

Claire Laurent’s greatest aspiration is to paint something that will bring her acclaim. Yet her father insists she work as a copyist. A forger. When she’s forced to flee from New Orleans to Nashville only a year after the War Between the States has ended, her path collides with attorney Sutton Monroe. She considers him a godsend for not turning her in to the authorities. But after he later refuses to come to her aid, Claire fears she’s sorely misjudged the man. Finding herself among the elite of Nashville's society, Claire believes her dream to create a lasting impression in the world of art is within reach––but only if her fraudulent past remains hidden.

The Federal Army has destroyed Sutton’s home and confiscated his land, and threatens to destroy his family’s honor. His determination to reclaim what belongs to him and to right a grievous wrong reveals a truth that may cost him more than he ever imagined––as well as the woman he loves.

I really enjoyed this first book of a new series. It was full of great characters looking for a new start for a variety of reasons.  The setting is so richly described that I felt I was right there with the characters, and the historical detail was wonderful.  Claire and Sutton have great chemistry and there are many sweet moments between them as their relationship progresses.  I look forward to the second books of the series.

Author: Tamara Alexander
Published: November 2011
Pages: 432
Genre: Historical Fiction
Source: LibraryThing Early Reviewers and Bethany House
Finished: 11/11/11



This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Bethany House Publishers and LibraryThing Early Reviewers and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.