Carrie Turansky

Snow hushes the Cotswolds. The air whispers of stories waiting to bloom.

When Emma Grace Langley retreats to her grandmother’s antique shop after heartbreak and loss, she doesn’t expect three forgotten heirlooms to become doorways to faith, courage, and hope. Through a portrait, a rare book, and a small figurine, the voices of Violet, Clara, and Arabella rise… each touched by England’s beloved storytellers—Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and Beatrix Potter.

I was drawn into how gentle show more the wonder is… no sweeping miracles, only grace threaded through ordinary days. Violet’s brushstrokes mirror courage learned in friendship. Clara’s compassion deepens amid struggle and self-doubt. Arabella’s journey toward peace and purpose glows beneath Beatrix Potter’s quiet wisdom.

Each author captures something rare: faith that doesn’t demand attention but transforms everything it touches. A Very English Christmas isn’t simply nostalgic; it’s luminous. Prayer, thanksgiving, forgiveness, and love are woven like golden threads through winter’s gray, reminding readers that redemption often begins in silent stillness.

I lingered in the chapters, letting the English winter settle in my soul. These stories became companions because of the women who search, falter, wait, and discover that the Author of every true tale never writes without mercy.

Perfect for readers who love clearly Christian Christmas stories shaped by faith and English literary grace… and for anyone who treasures the beauty of story itself. Even those who have not yet met Jesus will find these pages enchanting where faith is lived out authentically and hope lingers like warm and peaceful candlelight.

I received a digital copy from one of the authors. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book and audiobook review are my own. My review focuses on the writing, the story’s content, and the narration ensuring transparency and reliability. show less

Fantastic dual timeline novel by Carrie Turansky! Two women 100 years apart experience love, betrayal, heartache, forgiveness, and reconciliation in this powerful story that explores the impact of father/daughter relationships. Set in England’s gorgeous Lake District, this slow build romantic mystery kept me turning the pages as it switched from Charlotte and Ian in 1912 to Gwen and David in 2012.

1912- After Charlotte Harper’s father dies, she learns the man she looked up to and turned show more to for spiritual advice had a terrible secret. His betrayal affects not only their finances, but Charlotte’s trust in men. Hoping to find help from her estranged grandfather, her mother and family visit Longdale Manor only to be turned away. Charlotte pours out her feelings in her diary which is later discovered in modern times.

Now living on a sheep farm while her mother prays for reconciliation with her father, Charlotte meets Ian who’s on leave from university. His dream to be an archeologist and travel to Egypt is temporarily postponed to help his family. Charlotte learns valuable lessons on the farm and falls in love with Ian. But, her father’s betrayal shakes her faith and prevents her from giving Ian the benefit of the doubt when problems arise. Will she be able to forgive the past so she can move forward?

2012- Gwen Monroe is sent to Longdale Manor by her grandfather to appraise works of art for auction. The owner is trying to raise funds to save the manor and make needed repairs. David Bradley the owner’s handsome but grumpy grandson plans to turn the manor into a bed and breakfast. As Gwen searches the manor’s contents, she finds a 100 year old diary and a key to her past that may lead to finding her long lost father.

I loved how the two stories were linked. Both women had complicated relationships with their fathers and needed to find forgiveness and reconciliation. Charlotte’s character growth was remarkable as she learns a new way of life and experiences first love. I loved her excitement and desire to help when the lambs were born. I was frustrated at times with her stubbornness, but could understand why she was afraid to trust. I loved Gwen & David’s grumpy/sunshine relationship and seeing it progress to more.

The messages of faith, forgiveness, and reconciliation were touching and heartfelt. I loved Gwen’s decision to choose forgiveness. I also loved Ian’s sacrifice to help his family. The two timelines were equally interesting to me. Usually I prefer one to the other, but in this story I enjoyed both. Each romance was a slow build, believable relationship built on foundations of friendship. While I figured out some of the mystery, everything played out in an enjoyable way.

Highly recommend to historical romance, and fiction fans. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. show less

Step into the vivid world of A Token of Love, where Carrie Turansky masterfully blends the gritty realities of Victorian London with the vibrant pulse of contemporary life, revealing an unforgettable story of faith and fortitude. This book tells a story as it immerses you in the harsh realities of London’s past and present, leaving a lasting imprint on the heart and soul.

Turansky's depiction of emotional strength is a remarkable feat. Each character’s journey through turmoil and show more tribulation is depicted with such raw authenticity that it’s impossible not to be moved. The depth of emotional exploration is palpable, and the characters’ growth through their trials is beautifully rendered. Their struggles and triumphs are deeply felt experiences that resonate with anyone who has faced adversity.

Christian faith is the driving force behind the characters’ actions and decisions. Turansky weaves a tapestry of faith that is both genuine and impactful. The novel beautifully captures the essence of forgiveness, compassion, and divine intervention. Characters are guided by their spiritual beliefs in a way that is deeply authentic, reflecting a relationship with Christ that informs every choice they make. The intertwining of faith with the pursuit of justice is handled with grace, underscoring the profound influence of Christian principles on personal and societal transformation.

Justice is a central theme in the novel, and Turansky addresses it with a powerful sense of urgency and moral clarity. The relentless quest for truth is portrayed as a noble endeavor, driven by characters who refuse to stand by in the face of injustice. Their dedication to uncovering and addressing the hidden wrongs of their time speaks to a broader commitment to ethical principles and a desire to honor both God and those created in His image -- humanity. The obstacles they encounter and overcome highlight their unwavering commitment to justice, making their journey both inspiring and thought-provoking.

In A Token of Love, Turansky crafts a dual-time narrative that bridges past and present with seamless finesse. The novel’s atmosphere shifts between the somber shadows of historical London and the vibrant hope of contemporary settings, creating a dynamic backdrop that enhances the emotional and thematic depth of the story. The characters are shaped by the time periods in ways that reflect the enduring nature of the challenges they face.

This book is a compelling reminder of the transformative power of faith, the enduring quest for justice, and the deep connections that bind us across time. Turansky’s storytelling is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unchanging, faithful sovereignty and love of God.

As I turned the pages, Matthew 25:34-46 was swirling in my heart and mind. A Token of Love has inspired a deep reflection on the characters’ choices and the echoes of their faith and justice in my own daily life. This novel challenges, inspires, and ultimately uplifts, making it an unforgettable read!

I received a digital ARC of A Token of Love from the author, publisher, and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability. show less

A Token of Love is a story that’ll stay with me. This dual timeline mystery has a little bit of everything: two compelling romances, an interesting plot involving a Foundling Hospital from 1885, family drama, & faith all set in England. It’s a poignant story that was so hard to put down!

In 1885, Lillian Fremont is searching for her niece who was left at the Foundling Hospital several years ago. She carries the gold token from her sister that matches her niece’s as a way to claim her. show more But, when her search comes up empty & she feels the hospital isn’t giving her the whole truth, she enlists the help of investigative reporter, Matthew McGivern. As they try to find out what happened to Alice, they unravel a disturbing mystery that leads them into the seediest places in London, and human trafficking.

In modern day London, Janelle Spencer finds herself in charge of the Foundling Museum when her boss goes into early labor. Filmmaker Jonas Conrad is scheduled to come and film a documentary about the museum and doesn’t want to delay filming any longer than he has to. While he and Janelle get off to a bit of a rocky start, they soon become caught up in the history & sordid past of the Foundling Hospital. Trying to balance uncovering the truth with the museum’s reputation, Janelle has to decide if love is worth the risk.

Both of these stories were so compelling. I didn’t realize when I started reading that the subject matter would at times be bleak. Yet, the author did a great job balancing sensitivity with the need to shed light on the terrible events of the past, which this story is based on. I enjoyed the spiritual themes & the way these couples worked together to expose the truth. The romance was a nice touch that helped lighten the story & make it even more compelling.

Recommend to Christian historical fiction & dual time period romance fans. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. show less