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Doors to the Past #6
High-Wire Heartbreak
In 1936--A party at the Ringling mansion Ca d’Zan in Sarasota, Florida, leads to a robbery--and possibly death.
A successful historical mystery writer, Chloe Whitfield comes to Ca’ d’Zan to research her next novel. Chloe’s fascination with the circus is rooted in family stories of her great-grandmother Lucinda Conroy, who reportedly was a trapeze artist of some renown. She’s heard hints of scandal—and perhaps larceny, but no details.
Chloe’s grandmother—rumored to be Lucinda’s only offspring—was raised in an orphanage and never knew her mother. Intrigued as she is, Chloe has no intent of writing about Lucinda until she sees a poster featuring Lucinda as the star performer for a 70th birthday gala for John Ringling in May of 1936. From there the trail goes cold.
Who was Lucinda and what happened to her?
A successful historical mystery writer, Chloe Whitfield comes to Ca’ d’Zan to research her next novel. Chloe’s fascination with the circus is rooted in family stories of her great-grandmother Lucinda Conroy, who reportedly was a trapeze artist of some renown. She’s heard hints of scandal—and perhaps larceny, but no details.
Chloe’s grandmother—rumored to be Lucinda’s only offspring—was raised in an orphanage and never knew her mother. Intrigued as she is, Chloe has no intent of writing about Lucinda until she sees a poster featuring Lucinda as the star performer for a 70th birthday gala for John Ringling in May of 1936. From there the trail goes cold.
Who was Lucinda and what happened to her?
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2022
About the author
Anna Schmidt
66 books218 followersAnna Schmidt's historical novel, THE WINTERKEEPER, received a Five Star rating from Reader's Favorites. Reviews for the story have been strong including one from the Historical Novel Society that raved: "The storytelling and scene building are masterful and create an immediacy that keeps the reader turning pages. This is a writer who feels words as well as thinking them." Anna is a three-time finalist for the coveted RITA award presented annually by Romance Writers of America. In addition she has been a four-time finalist for the Reviewer’s Choice Award from Romantic Times magazine—an award she has won twice. Her latest novel RENEGADE is the second in her new series: Cowboys and Harvey Girls and is available now. Publisher's Weekly hails the series as: "Easygoing western romance readers will cheer for this good-hearted heroine to achieve all her dreams." Anna splits her time between Wisconsin and Florida, noting that, “I am blessed to have a career that travels well!”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
June 4, 2022
3.5 stars!
Characters: I wasn't a big fan of Chloe at the beginning, but she'd grown on me by the end. I found Lucinda's part of the story more interesting than the modern thread even though Lucinda got on my nerves a little with how oblivious she was to certain plot developments.
Language: Clean.
Moral/theme: This novel included themes of love (it was a romance), second chances, and family histories.
Plot: Dramatic revelations, a mystery, and a developing romance moved the plot along. I did struggle with a couple of turns the plot took.
Romance: Clean. Just kissing.
Writing: Anna Schmidt's smooth, clear style worked well for this book.
Overall: High-Wire Heartbreak was an interesting read, and I'd recommend it to those who enjoy Christian fiction and split-time novels.
Characters: I wasn't a big fan of Chloe at the beginning, but she'd grown on me by the end. I found Lucinda's part of the story more interesting than the modern thread even though Lucinda got on my nerves a little with how oblivious she was to certain plot developments.
Language: Clean.
Moral/theme: This novel included themes of love (it was a romance), second chances, and family histories.
Plot: Dramatic revelations, a mystery, and a developing romance moved the plot along. I did struggle with a couple of turns the plot took.
Romance: Clean. Just kissing.
Writing: Anna Schmidt's smooth, clear style worked well for this book.
Overall: High-Wire Heartbreak was an interesting read, and I'd recommend it to those who enjoy Christian fiction and split-time novels.
April 11, 2022
A good story about author Chloe Whitfield going to the winter home of John Ringling to get inspiration for her next book. Little did she know that story would be closer to home. To help her was museum director, Ian Flanner, and her appointed assistant, Tilda Tucker. To research her next book she looked to the life of her great-grandmother Lucinda Conroy, who simply disappeared, but Chloe found much more hidden behind the walls of Ca d'Zan.
A great read if you like circus life, mysteries, and a woman's determination to make things right.
A great read if you like circus life, mysteries, and a woman's determination to make things right.
August 14, 2022
Thought this was an interesting and light reading in a sense. I enjoyed it overall. It wasn't overly detailed which is usually a good thing. A neat little escape and cozy read :)
December 25, 2021
A superbly written dual time novel encompassing the world of Ringling Brother’s Circus and the colorful characters from the 1939 social scene in Sarasota, Florida. Although not what I was expecting, I was pleasantly surprised by this story of love lost and found and the repercussions of a scandal that effected several generations. It was very interesting to see what process the character of Chloe Whitfield used in researching a new book. “One of the reasons she liked writing historical fiction was the opportunity to walk where others had walked in earlier times.” But when a personal connection comes to light, it just got better and better.
The characters were thoroughly engaging, from Nardo and Lucy, Cloe and Ian to their friends and relatives.
Ms. Scmidt adeptly wove the two time lines together and I was very pleased by the ultimate connections, and romances progressed at a natural pace.
I am always happy to find a new author in my genre of choice and this author fits the bill.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing . I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
The characters were thoroughly engaging, from Nardo and Lucy, Cloe and Ian to their friends and relatives.
Ms. Scmidt adeptly wove the two time lines together and I was very pleased by the ultimate connections, and romances progressed at a natural pace.
I am always happy to find a new author in my genre of choice and this author fits the bill.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing . I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
February 1, 2022
1936 & present day Sarasota, FL
Enjoyable addition to the Doors to the Past Series.
There is a bit of a mystery surrounding a stolen vase, but this novel is primarily about uncovering the details of Chloe's (present day heroine) great grandmother's (1930s heroine) past. Lucy was a trapeze artist with Ringling Brothers. She was accused of theft and then there are no details beyond that. Chloe uses resources at her disposal to find out what happened.
Enjoyed the historical details in the novel.
Enjoyable addition to the Doors to the Past Series.
There is a bit of a mystery surrounding a stolen vase, but this novel is primarily about uncovering the details of Chloe's (present day heroine) great grandmother's (1930s heroine) past. Lucy was a trapeze artist with Ringling Brothers. She was accused of theft and then there are no details beyond that. Chloe uses resources at her disposal to find out what happened.
Enjoyed the historical details in the novel.
April 25, 2022
I was super excited going into this book - I've visited Ca'd'Zan and thought it was amazing, I love mysteries, so I thought the idea of a combination of the two was perfection. Unfortunately this was just... fine? I guess? I wanted so desperately to love it, but it just didn't work for me.
I did like the historical plotline much more than the modern one, but my main problem was with the characters, I think. Chloe is simply not a nice person, and while I usually don't have issues with an unlikeable main character, the way this was written seemed like it really wanted me to like Chloe, and I just didn't. She seems annoyed by everyone she talks to (except for Ian, but only after she's attracted to him), makes some pretty uncool comments about people's weight and looks, and I don't know, we just didn't jive. I liked Lucinda more, but she just lacks common sense and makes poor decisions every time. Ian and Nardo both deserved better, that's all I'm saying.
I will say I loved the descriptions. The way life in Florida is portrayed is pretty accurate, and I did feel like I was back at Ca'd'Zan, which was lovely. The mystery wasn't all that interesting once I kinda figured out where it was going. I think overall it's just that this author's writing and I didn't vibe, which is fine, though disappointing. Also there wasn't like... any faith content? Which is also disappointing considering this series is marketed as Christian fiction. There are just a couple of very quick prayers for help and not much else.
I'm definitely interested to pick up more from this series, but this one wasn't it for me. Three stars.
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
I did like the historical plotline much more than the modern one, but my main problem was with the characters, I think. Chloe is simply not a nice person, and while I usually don't have issues with an unlikeable main character, the way this was written seemed like it really wanted me to like Chloe, and I just didn't. She seems annoyed by everyone she talks to (except for Ian, but only after she's attracted to him), makes some pretty uncool comments about people's weight and looks, and I don't know, we just didn't jive. I liked Lucinda more, but she just lacks common sense and makes poor decisions every time. Ian and Nardo both deserved better, that's all I'm saying.
I will say I loved the descriptions. The way life in Florida is portrayed is pretty accurate, and I did feel like I was back at Ca'd'Zan, which was lovely. The mystery wasn't all that interesting once I kinda figured out where it was going. I think overall it's just that this author's writing and I didn't vibe, which is fine, though disappointing. Also there wasn't like... any faith content? Which is also disappointing considering this series is marketed as Christian fiction. There are just a couple of very quick prayers for help and not much else.
I'm definitely interested to pick up more from this series, but this one wasn't it for me. Three stars.
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
January 4, 2022
Another enjoyable Doors to the Past story.
I enjoyed the fact that the female lead in the modern day plot was a writer who was doing research for her next story. It was something different and added a different feel to the research being done.
The thread of the past was interesting and I wanted to find out what happened to Lucinda. I was hoping for a bit more mystery and suspense which the story lacked, but it was still interesting. Some events was a bit unexpected and I didn’t agree with some secrets the characters kept hidden and Lucinda came across as a bit naive which lead to the difficult situations she found herself in.
Not my favourite but I still enjoyed it a lot.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions expressed was my own.*
I enjoyed the fact that the female lead in the modern day plot was a writer who was doing research for her next story. It was something different and added a different feel to the research being done.
The thread of the past was interesting and I wanted to find out what happened to Lucinda. I was hoping for a bit more mystery and suspense which the story lacked, but it was still interesting. Some events was a bit unexpected and I didn’t agree with some secrets the characters kept hidden and Lucinda came across as a bit naive which lead to the difficult situations she found herself in.
Not my favourite but I still enjoyed it a lot.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions expressed was my own.*
December 4, 2021
I loved this story enough to endorse it, writing in part that the author "takes the reader on a thrilling ride from the present to the past and back again." The historical half of this split-time novel, involving John Ringling's estate which is now a museum in Sarasota, Florida, especially had me turning the pages to see what would happen next.
November 22, 2021
The story revolves around the Ringling Brother's Circus in 1936. The historical details as a backdrop is well done and made me feel as though I was there along with the main characters.
I loved hearing the story of Lucinda Conroy from two different time periods, hers and that of a historical mystery writer, Chloe. Lots of mystery, deception, scandal, and intrigue are included in the storyline to keep me engaged.
A very well-written tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It's one of the best stories I've read this year and hated for it to end. Highly recommend.
I received an early copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.
I loved hearing the story of Lucinda Conroy from two different time periods, hers and that of a historical mystery writer, Chloe. Lots of mystery, deception, scandal, and intrigue are included in the storyline to keep me engaged.
A very well-written tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It's one of the best stories I've read this year and hated for it to end. Highly recommend.
I received an early copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.
January 1, 2022
Such a well written time split novel alternating between the 1930's with Lucinda Conroy a circus aerialist performing in the Ringling Bros. circus and 2022 with Chloe Whitfield, mystery novelist visiting Ca d’Zan, the former Sarasota home of John Ringling to not only do research for her next novel but to try to find out what happened to her great-grandmother. Lucinda Conroy disappeared after being accused of a crime. I am really enjoying the Doors To The Past series it is full of historical information.
This book kept my attention as the time periods flowed together so fluidly. In 1936 a party at the Ringling Mansion leads to a robbery and possibly even death. Steeped in a long ago scandal will Chloe's research yield not only what she needs for her latest mystery book but also clear her family's name?
Recommended, I really enjoyed this one! #HighWireHeartbreak #NetGalley.
Pub Date 01 Jan 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This book kept my attention as the time periods flowed together so fluidly. In 1936 a party at the Ringling Mansion leads to a robbery and possibly even death. Steeped in a long ago scandal will Chloe's research yield not only what she needs for her latest mystery book but also clear her family's name?
Recommended, I really enjoyed this one! #HighWireHeartbreak #NetGalley.
Pub Date 01 Jan 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
February 9, 2022
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I enjoyed split-time stories and I especially enjoyed this one because it brings in the Ringling Brother Circus. My dad use to take us to this Circus ever year when it came through town so I always love a good Circus story. I enjoyed Chloe’s story and her determination to find out more about her family going back decades. It was fun following Chloe on her journey and I enjoyed the back story of the Circus. It gives me an even more enjoyable time thinking about the Circus years ago.
Anna Schmidt does an amazing job of writing this story, I love the vivid details of both timelines. And the research Schmidt had to do for this book is impressive, and she does a fabulous job creating the characters. Chloe really drew me into the story as she started digging deep into her family history, revealing things about her family. There is so much to this story, you need to read this book for yourself and enjoy it. I’m giving this one Five Stars. I have read several books by Anna Schmidt and I will surely check out her future books.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I enjoyed split-time stories and I especially enjoyed this one because it brings in the Ringling Brother Circus. My dad use to take us to this Circus ever year when it came through town so I always love a good Circus story. I enjoyed Chloe’s story and her determination to find out more about her family going back decades. It was fun following Chloe on her journey and I enjoyed the back story of the Circus. It gives me an even more enjoyable time thinking about the Circus years ago.
Anna Schmidt does an amazing job of writing this story, I love the vivid details of both timelines. And the research Schmidt had to do for this book is impressive, and she does a fabulous job creating the characters. Chloe really drew me into the story as she started digging deep into her family history, revealing things about her family. There is so much to this story, you need to read this book for yourself and enjoy it. I’m giving this one Five Stars. I have read several books by Anna Schmidt and I will surely check out her future books.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
December 23, 2021
This is the first I've read from Anna Schmidt and I can certainly say it will not be the last. Schmidt easily pulled me into each storyline - contemporary and historical - with her thoughtful dialogue, descriptive writings, and interesting plotline. I can't even tell you which time period I liked more because they were both so wonderfully written.
Lucinda's story was just mesmerizing. This poor thing, I could certainly sympathize with how she felt after being tricked by the person she thought loved her! But oh to have an unexpected hero was just fabulous. And though a difficult topic to broach for sure, especially for that time period, Schmidt did a fantastic job of talking about pregnancy, adoption, and everything in between.
And Chloe! Oh that girl had such heart. I appreciated how Schmidt sort of changed her character as the story went on. Yes she was an author, and yes she was really just researching for her book. But as this story went on, and she learned more about Lucinda's story, the importance of her novel kind of went to the side and the truth of her family lineage came to the forefront, and I was so pleased that Schmidt chose to write it in that fashion.
I highly recommend the latest book in this fabulous series from Barbour! It has a little something for everyone. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lucinda's story was just mesmerizing. This poor thing, I could certainly sympathize with how she felt after being tricked by the person she thought loved her! But oh to have an unexpected hero was just fabulous. And though a difficult topic to broach for sure, especially for that time period, Schmidt did a fantastic job of talking about pregnancy, adoption, and everything in between.
And Chloe! Oh that girl had such heart. I appreciated how Schmidt sort of changed her character as the story went on. Yes she was an author, and yes she was really just researching for her book. But as this story went on, and she learned more about Lucinda's story, the importance of her novel kind of went to the side and the truth of her family lineage came to the forefront, and I was so pleased that Schmidt chose to write it in that fashion.
I highly recommend the latest book in this fabulous series from Barbour! It has a little something for everyone. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 3, 2022
Another great time split read from the Doors to the Past series written by multiple authors.
The historical thread features Lucinda Conroy who is a trapeze artist in the Ringling Circus and makes the mistake of falling for the manager of the circus who is a well-to-do playboy. The outcomes leads to problems that force Lucy to run and reinvent herself along with her partner, Nardo. The current day thread focuses on Chloe Whitfield, a well known author, who is researching the Ringling mansion, Ca d'Zan, for her next mystery novel. Will her mystery help to find her great grandmother's connection to the Ringling Circus?
Having loved the circus growing up and having read a couple of other books set a Ca d'Zan, I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery. The setting was amazing, the characters were well developed and likeable, and the plot kept my attention from start to finish. Since I am also a genealogy enthusiast I loved following Chloe's path as she researched to find more information about her great grandmother, they mysterious missing vase, and the past of Ca d'Zan!
The historical thread features Lucinda Conroy who is a trapeze artist in the Ringling Circus and makes the mistake of falling for the manager of the circus who is a well-to-do playboy. The outcomes leads to problems that force Lucy to run and reinvent herself along with her partner, Nardo. The current day thread focuses on Chloe Whitfield, a well known author, who is researching the Ringling mansion, Ca d'Zan, for her next mystery novel. Will her mystery help to find her great grandmother's connection to the Ringling Circus?
Having loved the circus growing up and having read a couple of other books set a Ca d'Zan, I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery. The setting was amazing, the characters were well developed and likeable, and the plot kept my attention from start to finish. Since I am also a genealogy enthusiast I loved following Chloe's path as she researched to find more information about her great grandmother, they mysterious missing vase, and the past of Ca d'Zan!
January 7, 2022
I only read the past parts. Sadly after trying and trying to get into the modern half I just gave up. I couldn't connect with the characters, the fact that it was set as starting in June of 2022 was strange and off putting to me, and I couldn't find anything that intrigued me and would hold my interest. So I just read the chapters with Lucy. And that's really what gives this book some interesting reading to me. I love the circus so that was the pull for me anyways and that delivered. Anna's description of a trapeze move is spot on WONDERFUL! I felt like I was flying with Lucy. Though there was only one scene. I had figured I knew how the mystery was going to end up and I'm SO glad I was right because it made it worth reading for me. Now though the big issue and cause of the loss of stars for me was that there isn't any real Faith in this book, or at least the parts I read, even when there were some really obvious and perfect places for prayer and/or the realization that God was working and taking care of things. There are some minor mentionings of The Lord and minor prayers in the beginning, but except for that there's no real depth and towards the end there's nothing. So much so I would question whether this was a Christian book and if I didn't know better even question whether this was published from a Christian publishing company. Finally or maybe I should have started with this, I'm not fond of the title for many reasons, but one big one is because Lucy is a trapeze artists not a tight rope walker. I just think that something else would have been better like maybe even: "High Flying Heartbreak" or preferable "The Forgotten Flyer".
"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review."
"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review."
January 25, 2022
My first book of the New Year and a new author to me started it off with a winning bang. I’ve enjoyed this whole series but I think this is my favorite. I loved the way I was quickly drawn into the story especially the past. I couldn’t read fast enough to find out Lucy’s complete story. I loved the characters, the complexity of the story, and that it was split time which is quickly becoming my favorite genre. I’ve always been fascinated with the circus so the historical part held great appeal for me and made me want to visit the Ringling museum. I love a book that makes me feel a part of it and not want to leave and that is exactly what this one accomplished. I highly recommend moving this one to the top of your TBR list.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/Barbour Publishing. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit/Barbour Publishing. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
February 2, 2022
This is a dual time novel involving a current day author who decides that her next book should revolve around the Ringling Brothers Circus. Chloe Whitfield visits the Ringling mansion in Sarasota to conduct research and hopefully find answers about one of the circus's star performers. Her great grandmother was a trapeze artist who suddenly disappeared in 1936, and Chloe would like to find the reasons. Will her research lead to another best seller, or is she setting herself up for heartache?
I loved reading about the circus as it was in 1936, and learning about Ca' dZan, the elegant Ringling Mansion in Sarasota, Florida. Author Anna Schmidt has woven the two stories together seamlessly, with endearing characters, two romances, and many questions needing to be answered. I was totally engaged as I visited the mansion, and watched the performers prepare their acts, but the connection between two young women who lived in different eras was what kept me immersed and turning the pages!
This intriguing romantic suspense novel is a wonderful addition to the Doors to the Past series, and I highly recommend High-Wire Heartbreak to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction and dual timeline stories.
I received a copy of this book from the author via Celebrate Lit. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
I loved reading about the circus as it was in 1936, and learning about Ca' dZan, the elegant Ringling Mansion in Sarasota, Florida. Author Anna Schmidt has woven the two stories together seamlessly, with endearing characters, two romances, and many questions needing to be answered. I was totally engaged as I visited the mansion, and watched the performers prepare their acts, but the connection between two young women who lived in different eras was what kept me immersed and turning the pages!
This intriguing romantic suspense novel is a wonderful addition to the Doors to the Past series, and I highly recommend High-Wire Heartbreak to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction and dual timeline stories.
I received a copy of this book from the author via Celebrate Lit. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
December 3, 2021
It’s the summer of 2022, come visit Ca d’Zan, the Ringling mansion in Sarasota, Florida where historical mystery writer, Chloe Whitfield, researches the mystery of a missing aerial performer 100 years ago. John Ringling is known for bringing his family’s famed circus to audiences across America.
Flashback to 1936, where performers are readying themselves for John Ringling’s 70th birthday celebrations. Among them is headliner Lucinda Conroy and her partner Bernardo Russi. They are perfecting a triple summersault 80 feet above ground in what will be Lucinda’s final performance. What no one suspects is that this goodbye feat will lead to a robbery and possible death. Who was Lucinda and what happened to her?
This book is volume 6 of the Doors to the Past series featuring historic American landmarks. A story full of mystery, intrigue, faith and romance, Schmidt highlights the joy of new beginnings arising from hardship. It truly is a high-wire heartbreak.
Publishes January 1, 2022.
I was gifted this advance copy by Anna Schmidt, Barbour Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Flashback to 1936, where performers are readying themselves for John Ringling’s 70th birthday celebrations. Among them is headliner Lucinda Conroy and her partner Bernardo Russi. They are perfecting a triple summersault 80 feet above ground in what will be Lucinda’s final performance. What no one suspects is that this goodbye feat will lead to a robbery and possible death. Who was Lucinda and what happened to her?
This book is volume 6 of the Doors to the Past series featuring historic American landmarks. A story full of mystery, intrigue, faith and romance, Schmidt highlights the joy of new beginnings arising from hardship. It truly is a high-wire heartbreak.
Publishes January 1, 2022.
I was gifted this advance copy by Anna Schmidt, Barbour Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 6, 2022
I had a hard time getting into the duel storyline High-Wire Heartbreak, but once I did, I had a hard time putting the story down. It's the story of true love and the past may not be as it seems.
Chloe Whitfield moves into a cottage on the grounds of John Ringley's estate to research his circus for a mystery she is writing with a hope to find out more about her great-grandma who worked for Ringley and gave her daughter up for adoption. The duel story is set in the depression era with trapeze artist Lucinda who finds herself tricked into a marriage that isn't real and a pregnancy from it. The stories intertwine as Chloe searches for what happened to her great-grandma Lucinda.
I loved that the author had Lucinda find her true love in the one who had always been watching out for her and that Chloe had her own love interest, but that wasn't the main story of the book. Learning more about John Ringley was a bonus to the fiction stories. I would recommend this to all who love mystery and the duel storyline format.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
Chloe Whitfield moves into a cottage on the grounds of John Ringley's estate to research his circus for a mystery she is writing with a hope to find out more about her great-grandma who worked for Ringley and gave her daughter up for adoption. The duel story is set in the depression era with trapeze artist Lucinda who finds herself tricked into a marriage that isn't real and a pregnancy from it. The stories intertwine as Chloe searches for what happened to her great-grandma Lucinda.
I loved that the author had Lucinda find her true love in the one who had always been watching out for her and that Chloe had her own love interest, but that wasn't the main story of the book. Learning more about John Ringley was a bonus to the fiction stories. I would recommend this to all who love mystery and the duel storyline format.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
December 13, 2021
Over the past year, I've really come to realize just how much the setting means to me personally when I choose to pick up a new story. The spectacular settings are just one of the many reasons why Barbour's fantastic Doors to the Past series has been my absolute favorite of 2021, and High Wire Heartbreak is another fantastic addition to it, and I never wanted to see it end.
Right from the start, I found myself caught up in this beautiful story, and the many elements of mystery and romance that are included throughout. I especially found the setting of this one interesting, as I'd never heard of Ca' d'Zan before, and really enjoyed getting to learn all about it through our two main characters viewpoints.
High Wire Heartbreak tells the unique story of a best selling mystery author who chooses to set her next novel at the Ringling mansion, and hopes by doing so, she can finally learn something about her elusive biological great grandmother who nobody in the family seems to know anything about. As she falls more in love with the mansion, its history, and the museum professor who's helping her piece everything together, Chloe comes to learn family secrets from the past that no one could have seen coming.
Often in dual timeline settings, one or the other stories will stick out to me more, but one of my favorite parts about the Doors to the Past series is that each story always draws the reader in, and I love finding out at the end how everything is actually connected.
I've said it many times before, and I'll keep saying it, Doors to the Past is truly one of the best Christian fiction series I've ever read, and High Wire Heartbreak is another wonderful story that I can't possibly recommend enough.
Final Rating: 5/5.
I look forward to reading both more of this series, and more books from Anna Schmidt in the future.
Thanks so much to Barbour for allowing me to advance read and review this!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Barbour) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Right from the start, I found myself caught up in this beautiful story, and the many elements of mystery and romance that are included throughout. I especially found the setting of this one interesting, as I'd never heard of Ca' d'Zan before, and really enjoyed getting to learn all about it through our two main characters viewpoints.
High Wire Heartbreak tells the unique story of a best selling mystery author who chooses to set her next novel at the Ringling mansion, and hopes by doing so, she can finally learn something about her elusive biological great grandmother who nobody in the family seems to know anything about. As she falls more in love with the mansion, its history, and the museum professor who's helping her piece everything together, Chloe comes to learn family secrets from the past that no one could have seen coming.
Often in dual timeline settings, one or the other stories will stick out to me more, but one of my favorite parts about the Doors to the Past series is that each story always draws the reader in, and I love finding out at the end how everything is actually connected.
I've said it many times before, and I'll keep saying it, Doors to the Past is truly one of the best Christian fiction series I've ever read, and High Wire Heartbreak is another wonderful story that I can't possibly recommend enough.
Final Rating: 5/5.
I look forward to reading both more of this series, and more books from Anna Schmidt in the future.
Thanks so much to Barbour for allowing me to advance read and review this!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Barbour) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 11, 2021
High-Wire Heartbreak is the third book I've read in the Doors to the Past series and I've loved each one. The beautiful cover drew me in and absolutely insisted I read it.
Dual timeline stories are quickly becoming my favorites and Anna Schmidt delivers in-depth complex relationships in both time periods. I knew from the title there would be a sadness and heartbreak, but that's only one facet of this well-developed story. There's mystery, romance and a unique setting that had me on the edge of my seat!
I was fascinated by the description of the Ringling property known as Ca d'Zan and had to stop reading to look it up; it's a real place, an art and circus museum. The pictures of it added a lot to the visual understanding of the setting and gave a real feel for the wealth and splendor of the 1936 Sarasota property. Normally I'm all about how the relationships grow and evolve in a book, and the two in this story were fantastic, but this historical setting was a character come to life in and of itself.
My favorite romance of the two timelines was the historical one. It's a love story to its very core, not the flashy passionate one readers often encounter, but a love story of the truest most enduring nature, where one person loves another and does everything for their wellbeing and expects nothing in return. Be still my heart!
The modern day timeline was more about trying to solve the mystery of what happened all those years ago to a vanished hire-wire performer and the connection to the Whitfield family. I love how the author tied the two time periods together and brought the story to a satisfying sigh worthy conclusion. I highly recommend High-Wire Heartbreak. I could not have enjoyed it more. I appreciate Barbour Publishing making a copy available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.
Dual timeline stories are quickly becoming my favorites and Anna Schmidt delivers in-depth complex relationships in both time periods. I knew from the title there would be a sadness and heartbreak, but that's only one facet of this well-developed story. There's mystery, romance and a unique setting that had me on the edge of my seat!
I was fascinated by the description of the Ringling property known as Ca d'Zan and had to stop reading to look it up; it's a real place, an art and circus museum. The pictures of it added a lot to the visual understanding of the setting and gave a real feel for the wealth and splendor of the 1936 Sarasota property. Normally I'm all about how the relationships grow and evolve in a book, and the two in this story were fantastic, but this historical setting was a character come to life in and of itself.
My favorite romance of the two timelines was the historical one. It's a love story to its very core, not the flashy passionate one readers often encounter, but a love story of the truest most enduring nature, where one person loves another and does everything for their wellbeing and expects nothing in return. Be still my heart!
The modern day timeline was more about trying to solve the mystery of what happened all those years ago to a vanished hire-wire performer and the connection to the Whitfield family. I love how the author tied the two time periods together and brought the story to a satisfying sigh worthy conclusion. I highly recommend High-Wire Heartbreak. I could not have enjoyed it more. I appreciate Barbour Publishing making a copy available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.
February 5, 2022
Another marvelous read in the Doors to the Past series by Barbour Publishing! I enjoyed reading about fascinating Ca’ d’Zan, the incredible mansion of John Ringling, circus extraordinaire. The author does a great job describing the setting such that you feel like you are walking through the great halls and experiencing it for yourself. I liked the dual timelines and the hints of mystery as the story unfolded. One of my favorite aspects of dual fiction is the connection that emerges between the two timelines and this story excellently tied them together. The romance is also well written and woven into the novel. I have not yet read anything else by this author but I am excited to read more by her in the future. I recommend this book and this entire series! You do not have to read the series in order as the novels all stand alone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Tours. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Tours. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
February 5, 2022
A trapeze act, a scandal and a theft leave Lucinda Conroy in predicament in the 1930's Meanwhile, present day mystery writer Chloe Whitfield arrives at Ca' d'Zan, mansion of the renowned John Ringling. I loved the way the stories intertwined in this dual timeline story. Both timelines captivated my attention and I enjoyed both main characters. Both Lucy and Chloe had depth of character, grew and learned through out the story. It was an interesting story that had a fun backdrop. A circus story that wasn't set in the circus but rather at the mansion of the circus owner.
I am really enjoying these "Doors to the Past" books. Anna Schmidt was a new author for me, but I look forward to reading more of her stories.
Thanks to #NetGalley for the ARC of #HighWireHeartbreak
I am really enjoying these "Doors to the Past" books. Anna Schmidt was a new author for me, but I look forward to reading more of her stories.
Thanks to #NetGalley for the ARC of #HighWireHeartbreak
December 20, 2021
Thanks, Netgalley and Barbour Publishing for a free arc copy of this book for an honest review...
This is my first time reading Christian Fiction! And I enjoyed every bit of it.
Great book and a great mystery. The book was a bit detailed in a few places, but otherwise, a quick-paced novel, and I loved it. There were moments when I thought I had the mystery worked out , but then some new information would come to light. The author disclosed just enough clues so the reader thought they are on the right track. The characters were well thought-out and the tone of the dialogue exchange really transports the reader to 1936. The ending was a bombshell.
This is the first in a series. Would love to read more.
This is my first time reading Christian Fiction! And I enjoyed every bit of it.
Great book and a great mystery. The book was a bit detailed in a few places, but otherwise, a quick-paced novel, and I loved it. There were moments when I thought I had the mystery worked out , but then some new information would come to light. The author disclosed just enough clues so the reader thought they are on the right track. The characters were well thought-out and the tone of the dialogue exchange really transports the reader to 1936. The ending was a bombshell.
This is the first in a series. Would love to read more.
January 27, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I don’t think I have read anything by Anna before. She had me so concerned about Lucy and what would happen to her. I will say I like the historical part of the book more then the the contemporary part, but I did enjoy that as well.
I was so curious how and if Chloe would discover what really happened to her great-grandma. We as the reader know but would Chloe find out? I really wanted her to.
Overall, a great addition to this time-split series.
A copy of this book was given to me through Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
I was so curious how and if Chloe would discover what really happened to her great-grandma. We as the reader know but would Chloe find out? I really wanted her to.
Overall, a great addition to this time-split series.
A copy of this book was given to me through Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.
July 27, 2024
I really enjoyed the mystery here! The twist was incredible!
January 24, 2022
Recently if you say the word ‘circus’ I’m on board so of course I had to check out this book! Though there wasn’t as much about the actual circus mentioned there were enough nods that entertained me.
Being that this was a split time we got to have two love stories, one between Ian and Chloe, and the other between Lucinda and Bernardo. Neither emerged as a clear favorite for me and I was content to switch between the two. Occasionally the characters and their actions felt a little off or annoying to me but overall I was glad they all found their happily ever afters.
I always love uncovering mysteries from the past so Chloe’s search for information about her great-grandmother was definitely my favorite part of the story.
This book kind of fell in the middle of the road for me on my enjoyment level but I know some readers out there will thoroughly enjoy this story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Being that this was a split time we got to have two love stories, one between Ian and Chloe, and the other between Lucinda and Bernardo. Neither emerged as a clear favorite for me and I was content to switch between the two. Occasionally the characters and their actions felt a little off or annoying to me but overall I was glad they all found their happily ever afters.
I always love uncovering mysteries from the past so Chloe’s search for information about her great-grandmother was definitely my favorite part of the story.
This book kind of fell in the middle of the road for me on my enjoyment level but I know some readers out there will thoroughly enjoy this story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 7, 2022
enjoyed both story lines
January 14, 2022
High-Wire Heartbreak is an interesting dual-time book about the Ringling circus and the history surrounding the lives of those who worked there. The majority of the book (both timelines), takes place at the Ringling mansion Ca d’Zan in Sarasota, Florida.
The past timeline was my favorite and my favorite character in the entire book was Nardo. Even though he was a secondary character, he seemed to have more depth than others.
One of the characters was pretty annoying almost the entire book and made some really childish decisions. I also felt like a lot of mystery and suspense was just thrown in there, but didn't really add to the story.
During the present-day timeline, there was a very brief mention of COVID. It felt like it was thrown in there to be "relatable", but seemed out of place. It could just be that I honestly don't want to read about it in books or see it on TV (too soon...haha).
However, I still found it enjoyable and I really loved the setting.
**Thanks to NetGalley for providing an ARC for review!
The past timeline was my favorite and my favorite character in the entire book was Nardo. Even though he was a secondary character, he seemed to have more depth than others.
One of the characters was pretty annoying almost the entire book and made some really childish decisions. I also felt like a lot of mystery and suspense was just thrown in there, but didn't really add to the story.
During the present-day timeline, there was a very brief mention of COVID. It felt like it was thrown in there to be "relatable", but seemed out of place. It could just be that I honestly don't want to read about it in books or see it on TV (too soon...haha).
However, I still found it enjoyable and I really loved the setting.
**Thanks to NetGalley for providing an ARC for review!
December 11, 2021
As Chloe starts hunting for clues to her grandmother, you will find the history unfold in this dual time period book. The book flowed so well together and it engaged me right from the beginning. Wow, it was so good. I absolutely loved this book. It was an absolute page turner and had me reading when I should have been sleeping. This book was thrilling and I never wanted it to end. The story of heartbreak is truly that and the characters are realistic as they approach their situations. The mystery keeps you on the edge of your seat. Yes, I really, really can't say enough good things about this book. It was just great.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
January 19, 2022
High-Wire Heartbreak was a great book by a new to me author. I loved the mystery and intrigue, the suspense and the storylines. I loved the way the author wrote the characters, so believable and real to life. I loved the way everything was woven together and summed up nicely in the end. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and because it was featured around a circus, that made it even more interesting. Highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
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