Brenda Davies

I received this book from LibraryThing in exchange for a review here and on my blog Samwise Reviews. This was not my cup of tea. It had a lot of potential and I liked the idea, but I did not like the story. I found everything really harsh, from the graphic scenes to the characters themselves. I found some of them a bit unecessary and the plot didn't always make sense to me. I don't regret giving it a chance, it just didn't end up being my thing. This did fit the "Title Beginning With A" part of my 2020 reading challenge though.… (more)

This was read via Secret Readers and comes out in May in the UK. This is the story of a Nora who on finding herself pregnant is put into a mental hospital as a ‘morally defective’ and about her treatment there. It was at times harrowing and the first part of the book made me so angry for her. The second part of the book deals with the two doctors firstly one who stops the hideous way she is being treated by certain members of staff and secondly by a doctor Janet who wants her well and independent as by this stage she is quite institutionalised. Thankfully the book ends on a positive note and it was based on a true story. Highly recommended but quite a lot of triggering things, assault, sexual assault, suicide and for me certain medical treatments .… (more)

"Along Came a Soldier" by Brenda Davies is a compelling tale of forbidden love set against the backdrop of 19th century Cornwall. The story follows Charity, who calls the small village of St Merryn home, but it is also the place where her mother was murdered, the killer never caught. When Charity meets Jethro, the son of the man accused of her mother's murder, they develop an instant attraction, but their love is forbidden due to the longstanding feud between their families.

As their relationship deepens, Charity must choose between loyalty to her family and her growing desire for Jethro. Meanwhile, a soldier seeking revenge returns to the village, and Jethro is accused of murder. Charity risks everything to save him from the hangman's noose, and in the process uncovers secrets about the past that threaten to destroy everything she holds dear.

"Along Came a Soldier" is a captivating and emotional tale of love, loyalty, and forgiveness. The vivid descriptions of 19th century Cornwall and the complex and well-developed characters make this a standout historical romance. With steamy scenes and a killer lurking in the woods, this book is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.… (more)