Chaikin, Linda

Average customer rating:

Another great addition to the Silk House series!
A moving portrayal of French History...
A lot of build up...

Written on Silk (The Silk House)
Linda Lee Chaikin
Manufacturer: Zondervan Publishing Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0310263018

Customer Reviews:

Another great addition to the Silk House series!.......2007-05-18

Murder, intrigue, betrayal in the palaces of 16th century France. Catherine De Medici, the ruthless queen regent, plots to maintain her power while trying to rid the influence of the Guise brothers who are controlling her son, King Francis II. Rachelle is caught in her path while being the maid of honour to Catherine's daughter, Margo. Linda did an excellent job on the research of the time period and the emotions and the plotting of both the historical characters and fictional characters are well-written and believeable. And now there is an announcement that there are going to be four books in this series. The story is building up...and we need to find out what happens next for Fabien and Rachelle.

A moving portrayal of French History..........2007-05-03

I really liked this book, but am now sitting in extreme anticipation for the third book, which doesn't come out till December!! I have to agree somewhat with the other comment. This book does leave you hanging quite a bit, and I would probably also recommend waiting to read this with the third book; however, this series is supposed to have FOUR books, not three, so you might be waiting a while before you're completely satisfied.

With that said, it is no wonder that the plot is built up so much in this book because a lot of things are still going to happen in the next two books. This book really moved me, and helped me appreciate what so many have gone through for freedom to worship as they wish. I also love the continuation of the relationship between Fabien and Rachelle, and the addition of James Hudson and Bertrand, though I am a little skeptical of what happens at the end, and sometimes Rachelle's behavior towards Fabien is rather maddening.

Overall, though, I would say this book is thoroughly enjoyable, and I will enjoy rereading the first two books when the others come out. I also haven't minded learning a little French along the way. Linda does better with the French terms in the second book, in not using them quite as much, and using terms that are easier to figure out(because they're very similar to the English terms for the same things). I definitely recommend this book!

A lot of build up... .......2007-05-01

History. Tragedy. Intrigue. Piracy. Romance. Murder. Inquisition. Royal Plotting. Imprisonment. Suspense. Jealousy. Love. Betrayal.
There is a lot going on in Written on Silk (second book of the Silk House series). So much potential. But it is mostly just an upward slope, building to a great climax that never comes. At least not in this book.

I like the idea of this book. Having taken French for seven years, the interspersed French words didn't bother me. But I can easily see how it would turn off many people. Granted the first time a word is introduced it is in italics and there is a handy glossary in the beginning of the book, but having to look up words breaks up the pace of the story- slowing you down from reading it and slowing down the momentum of the story.

That being said, the plot is aggravating. There is a LOT of build up but no real climax or resolution. A lot of the story is being saved for, what I'm assuming is, the third and final book. The Macquinet family is struck by tragedy early on in the book. A Huguenot massacre occurs. A family member is killed by the Queen Mother. Another is unknowlingly putting herself in danger of being a pawn- a means to an indetermine end. And yet after all this there is no climax- no "ultimate battle", if you will, between Catherine de Medici and the Huguenots (or just the Macquinets, Fabian). I'm assuming this action is being saved for the next book. A lot happens plot-wise; story-wise there isn't much development. Rachelle is portrayed as vengeful, petty, capricious, and wishy-washy (particularly in her feelings for Fabian). On a happy note, their relationship does make a "flying leap" into another stage of their lives.

This installment was an overall disappointment. Right when the action is so close to reaching its climax, it ends. A HUGE cliffhanger. Usually this would make you wait with bated breath for the conclusion, but on top the already 200+ pages of build-up, you want SOMETHING big to happen. Ending at that point is aggravating, to say the least. After reading all that, you want some resolution. But instead all that we're given is a pithy, one-sided page epilogue.

I think the second book is mostly a waste- filler until the next book comes out. I'm hoping the action picks up. Well it'd better because there's a lot left to resolve. Like her East of the Sun trilogy, there is some slow moving points-too much exposition on boring points and not enough dialogue to keep it moving. Fans of the first Silk House book may be as disappointed as I was. Maybe not. Maybe I'm a minority. Though, to save others the frustration, I would suggest waiting until the last book is out so you can read them together. I'm hoping the story will read better as an unit because reading one by one is going up (good for the first) and down (with the second).

Average customer rating:

Great ending, but too brief.
Intriging, enchanting, thrilling and extremely exciting!!!!
Conclusion
A Masterpiece (-In progress?)
Unfinished......but otherwise pretty good.

Jamaican Sunset (The Buccaneers , No 3)
Linda Lee Chaikin
Manufacturer: Moody Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0802410731

Customer Reviews:

Great ending, but too brief........2007-01-08

This is an excellent series, and one of Linda Chaikin's best, but this book is way too brief for an ending. The resolution of Baret's father, the treasure, and all of the other plots is too quick, and I almost felt cheated. When a story is built up so much, you expect a big ending, and instead you get a novel that's almost half the size of the first book in the series.

Certain relationships and storylines are either wrapped up too quickly, or they aren't really wrapped up at all, and though it would be a bit unbelievable to have every single thing work out in the end, the ending leaves you slightly dissatisfied and wanting more. I feel that Linda Chaikin could have easily written 150 pages more on this story, complete with resolutions for each character and a more balanced ending.

With all that being said, this is a wonderful series, and though I was disappointed in this last book, it was still very good. The love story between Baret and Emerald proves to be one of my favorites, and I've read certain parts of this book over and over because they leave me feeling so giddy! I do wish, however, that the relationship between Erik and Minette was given a more prominent role; it had such potential!

So overall, a wonderful series, even though the ending is disappointing. If you enjoyed this series, be sure to check out Linda Chaikin's other books--they're all wonderful!

Intriging, enchanting, thrilling and extremely exciting!!!!.......2004-04-14

[]I love the Bucaneer Series !!! These books were absolutely brilliant. Linda C writes with such vivid detail and her historical content has the effect of making you want to travel back in time to meet emerald and especially Baret! I couldn't get enough of this series and as a result read it 7 times !!! Reading it makes you want to jump into the story and help Emerald and Baret to realise their love for each other even through all their trials. Near the end of book two the story is so intense that it makes you want to scream.(...) You'll haves to read it for yourself - it is definately a major must read !!!!!!

Conclusion.......2003-12-22

This book was not Linda Chaikin's best work, but neither was this whole series. Of course I was hooked after reading the first one, but still it could have been better. I agree with the other people, she could have wrapped a few more things up in the end! But it was pretty good.

A Masterpiece (-In progress?).......2001-06-21

As I began to read this anxiously awaited book, I was instantly captivated - as is the norm with Linda's books. It had it all, adventure, intrigue, romance, and most importantly - a subtle but clear Christian message. How thrilled was I to finally see Baret's Love for Emerald unleashed, to know without doubt that he would let no cicumstance or person come before their love. The intrigue surrounding his father's "death" was skillfully unraveled to a worthy end, and Baret's dreams fulfilled. Confrontations and battles were vibrantly brought to colour by the fluency which is a characteristic of Linda Chaikin. Thus one would think that this fast moving, intriguing book should completely satisfy me, and whilst I immensely enjoyed the book and have given it a top rating, I find my self somewhat dissatiafied with the 'details' that could have further been explored - but seem to have been forgotten in tha haste in which the author seemed to have written the book (probably due to those like myself who pushed for a quick release date!!) I personally would like to know, among others, if Emerald ever saw the impression that Baret had sketched of her?, did Minette and Eric find happiness and harmony together? , what about Lavander and Grayford - were they able to make a go of it together? - and was there a chance of happiness for Geneva and Baret's father after the sudden demise of Felix? , did Jette go with Emerald and Baret to England and what was their reception from the king? These little things, I feel, would have gave a more completed feel to the novel and the series. But one thing I must remember whilst judging this book is that I do not have bestselling books credited to me and Linda certanly knows best when dealing with those whom she created - perhaps the 'unfinished' ending was to allow each reader to settle matters in their own style - although I would have much preferred it had she finished it in hers! Whilst saying this I must say that it is still a cut above most literature out in both Christian and secular circles at the moment, and on the whole a series to be read numerous times with endless enjoyment - Well Done Linda, it's another cracker!

Unfinished......but otherwise pretty good........2001-05-29

The book was excellent, but ti needed to be finished. It doesn't tell what happens to Minette and Eric, how everything goes with Geneva and Sophia at Foxemoore, what happens to Mr. Pitt, what happens in England, along with a score of other things. It's like the author wrote a great beginning-middle of a book, and leaving many questions unanswered, finished it. I think she should write a fourht book instead of leaving us all on edge.

Average customer rating:

Karena Peshkev dreams of escaping her family's country estate to attend medical school
More Stars Please
Don't waste your time.
Pretty bad for a Chaikin book
A Story that begs to be read and enjoyed!

The Midwife of St. Petersburg
Linda Lee Chaikin
Manufacturer: WaterBrook Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 140007083X
Release Date: 2007-04-17

Book Description

The Flames of Love and Revolution…

It is Czarist Russia, 1914. Karena Peshkev dreams of escaping her family’s country estate and attending medical school. But each year, as she watches her hopes of being accepted to the Imperial College of Medicine slip further away, she much content herself with working alongside her mother, the village’s Jewish midwife.

On a visit to her cousin’s sumptuous mansion, Karena gets a taste of Russian high society–and meets Colonel Alexsandr Kronstadt. Their attraction is immediate, but they can never act on it. Alex is meant for Karena’s cousin, the general’s daughter, a superior match politically and socially.

But when the accusations of Bolshevik conspiracy tear her family apart, Karena and her mother flee to St. Petersburg. The Okhrana–the Russian secret police–are convinced Karena is a Bolshevik traitor, in league with the rebel party’s leader. Certain she is guilty of murder and assassination, they’re determined to hunt her down. Alex risks his career and his life to protect her from afar, but will it be enough? Will he find her in time to save her from false accusations–and declare his love?

Vibrant with historical detail and richly woven themes of danger, romance, and God’s faithfulness, The Midwife of St. Petersburg is an eloquent tale portraying the beauty and madness of a country that is about to change forever.

Customer Reviews:

Karena Peshkev dreams of escaping her family's country estate to attend medical school.......2007-06-18

In early-20th-century Czarist Russia, Karena Peshkev dreams of escaping her family's country estate to attend medical school. But she continues to be waitlisted because her mother, the village's midwife, is Jewish. On a visit to her wealthy cousin Tatiana's St. Petersburg mansion, Karen meets Colonel Alexsandr Kronstadt, a member of the Okhrana, or secret police. While their attraction is immediate, Alex is meant for Tatiana, the general's daughter --- a superior match politically and socially.

But when the accusations of Bolshevik conspiracy tear her family apart, Karena and her mother flee to St. Petersburg. The Okhrana believes that Karena is a Bolshevik traitor, in league with the rebel party's leader. Will Karena and her family survive? Will she and Alex ever be able to have a relationship?

This historical tale of a Christian-Jewish family's involvement in the Revolution is different and intriguing. Joseph Peshkov is a Christian, and his wife Yeva is a convert -- but she and her relatives (including scholar Uncle Matvey Menkin, who believes that Jesus Christ is the Jewish Messiah) remain under close scrutiny by the Okhrana. Complicating matters is the fact that Karena's brother Sergei is deeply entrenched in Bolshevik activities. When Colonel Aleksandr Kronstadt is sent to investigate suspicious doings where the family lives, near Kiev, his infatuation with Karena leads him to help her and her family out of numerous scrapes.

Grandmother Jilinsky's dreadful memories of pogroms in her native Poland, Madame Yeva's hinky ownership of a stunning jewel and the fact that all available able-bodied men are either being conscripted into the military or sent to labor camps mean that a happy ending for Karena and her ailing mother will be hard to come by.

There were some elements in this book that I greatly enjoyed, not the least of which were a number of the characters. Uncle Matvey, with his gouty foot and book-crowded study, is a marvelous creation, a sort of antiqued "Jews for Jesus" proselytizer. Kronstadt's stepmother Olga evokes all of the splendor and much of the guilt of the White Russian aristocracy. I'm not sure why author Linda Lee Chaikin always refers to the diamonds worn by the shallow aristocratic women as "South African diamonds," unless she has some political bone to sharpen. That's fine, but given the lack of similar digs at worldly things in the book, the shtick seems out of place.

I also liked the homework Chaikin has done on early 20th-century medical and hygienic practices; Madame Yeva believes as firmly in sickroom cleanliness as her idol Florence Nightingale did. I would love to see a book about Karena and her mother running a clinic for St. Petersburg's ladies of the evening (as Karena does a bit of towards the end of the novel).

--- Reviewed by Bethanne Kelly Patrick

More Stars Please.......2007-06-13

In my opinion, Linda Chaikin writes for 2 genres. One is the fast-paced world of intrigue with highly woven plots and characters (The Buccaneers, Silk House, Heart of India). The other is slightly more relaxed with deep detail and characters who think before they act (Lions of the Desert, East of the Sun). This book falls into the realm of the second, and is a highly entertaining and evocative read.

In respect to the other reviews listed here, yes there are some moments where the text repeats, but possibly this is a help to the reader who cruises through a book, rather than a speed-freak like myself who can't wait to get to the end and find out what happened and blazes through it in under 24hrs. Every author has his or her own foibles, no matter who they are. It's worth 'forgiving' this for the sake of what's going on. Keep in mind also that Aussies don't think like Americans, Americans don't think like Russians, and Russians don't think like Jews. There are valid reasons behind the behaviour of the characters here. To me the style of the book made perfect sense and the pace was beautiful. Too quick, and you fail to 'feel'. A good book is about more than a fleeting mental pleasure.

If you want a quickie romance with passionate love affairs and unrealistic time spans, go and get a novella. The Midwife of St Petersberg is a story with integrity and passion for the long haul, and the characters are treading carefully. Some men and women (Micheal W Smith's biography) share a glance and 'know'they have found their Mr or Mrs Right. Other people can take ten times longer. Still others rush into flings and get themselves in a whole lot of trouble...

Beside the point. I found the story clipped, and see that Chaikin is toning back her long descriptives in favour of urging the story along at a pace with realism that is highly plausible. This book is about more than romance. It's about relationship, deception, truth and what we all want to fight for when government does its people wrong. Karena's own spiritual journey develops in this book, and I am quite certain we shall see one if not two more installments here, hence, what some readers refer to as 'unanswered questions' and loose ends.

At the risk off too much dialogue about author technique, the story goes as follows: Karena is the daughter of a Russian Wheat farmer and has a brother and a sister and numerous cousins. She ventures to cousin Tatiana's house first where she meets Aleksander, or Alex. Their attraction is instant though they talk themselves out of it due to circumstance. Karena's brother ends up in a whole lot of trouble with the law as a Bolshevik, and later she is caught up in his web, ending with dire circumstances when their father, Josef, all but sacrifices himself so that Sergei can have a life. Alex's part to play is as Colonel, for the time being, and his step-mother helps him out with 'spy matters', since she also is a spy and is one of the few he can confide in. The situation for Karena changes numerous times in the space of hours, and her life is thrown into a spin. What would you do if everything you loved was suddenly ripped away?

Karena has several encounters with Alex, as well as the 'troublemakers' of the story. The character details do help define the people and certainly shows who they are and what they are not. Some of it is rather blunt, and shows just how stupid people can be, even when the truth is right before their eyes.

I hesitate to say too much and reveal all the secrets, or else, if you read the reviews here you might be disappointed with knowing everything! :) Suffice it to say, there is a kind of "Book #1" ending about it. It is a semi-cliff hanger not devoid of hope or promise. Karena's own mother is probably holding the biggest bomb of all to drop, at this stage.

Yes, it is a good read. A great read. It does deserve the time of day, but I also suggest you keep in mind not only what kind of things you love, but also to try something a little different. This is meant to be more than your average fiction romance. I considered it very smooth, and I can't wait for the next one!
Way to go LLC! :)

Don't waste your time........2007-05-24

"The Midwife of St. Petersburg" was a great disappointment to me. I have long heard about Linda Lee Chaikin as being an excellent writer of exciting, romantic historical Christian novels, but this book, the first of hers I have read, did not prove such praises to be true. I certainly hope that what other reviewers have said is true, and that this novel is not a good example of Chaikin's work, because based on this book alone, I would most likely never read a book of hers again.

It would be a VAST understatement to say that this book is LONG and drawn-out far beyond what is necessary. It seems as though Chaikin takes forty pages to write what could be done eloquently and efficiently in about five pages. That being said, she certainly pays close attention to detail, leaving no stone unturned - and no thought unrecorded. You do get a feel for the time period and setting when reading this novel. I suppose that attention to detail is the only reason I'm giving this book two stars instead of one.

The constant inner monologues of her characters are, I suppose, meant to create depth in them, but instead it comes off as long-winded and boring. The relationships, particularly the "romantic" one, also lack depth and believability. The "romantic" aspect of this book is nearly non-existent, highly contrived, and very disappointing. The plot, aside from moving ridiculously slow, simply dead ends without much resolution, which is also unsatisfactory.

I think that Chaikin is trying to make this novel the first in a series; my assumption is based solely on the lack of resolution in the plot, although nothing on the book jack or the back of the book indicates that a sequel is in the works. If a sequel is indeed going to be published, I will most certainly not be reading it; I couldn't finish this book fast enough, which is always a sign of a sub-par novel.

Grade: D

Pretty bad for a Chaikin book.......2007-05-12

Midwife of St. Petersburg is not one of Ms. Chaikin's better books. In fact, I found it to be pretty annoying. The overall writing style seems sloppy- going off on tangents about events, people randomly. There are multiple instances where a certain fact or event is repeated, first stated by one character then the next chapter another character makes the exact same remark. At least three times, there is the same comment made about Florence Nightingale and her sanitizing/hand-washing practices. Almost as if someone wasn't paying attention when editing or it is assumed that the readers need these redundancies...???? I don't know why but it was extremely annoying to read a story that didn't have much plot, romance, too much boring historical information, a lot of loose ends hanging at the end, and repeated whole sections that weren't that great to begin with.

I personally didn't like the protagonist of Karena either. She was a sweet, caring girl but she came off as stupid and careless. She knowlingly puts herself into dangerous situations and then seems surprised at the outcome! The little romance that there is in the story, between Karena and Alex, is just barely beginning and yet they claim to have already fallen head over heels for each other. In that sense, even the romance doesn't seem realistic. There is too much time devoted to explaining certain historical facts (the character of Rasputin, religious persecution, Bolshevik revolutions) at great lengths that is too much for a work of fiction. And even those facts are repeated over and over again. As if we're too stupid to have noticed them the first time they were mentioned.

There are also some very hokey lines that make "serious" parts almost laughable. Karena "dream[ed] of the day when she would see him again (...)the day the rosebud would open into a full, red rose." "The times are against us." Those lines could be sweet and poetic but the way they're used it seems more melodramatic.

Overall, a disappointment. This story isn't on the same level as Ms. Chaikin's other novels. It was an interesting story idea but it isn't written well. If is was better edited and the plot more concentrated, it would have made a strong, stand alone book. But instead there is a poorly structured plot with a lot of loose ends and redundancies.

For some better historical romances set in Russia, I recommend reading the Heirs of Anton series by Susan May Warren and Susan Downs.

A Story that begs to be read and enjoyed!.......2007-05-05

One of the best books ever written by Linda Chaikin! Russia 1914, a time of unrest among the common people forgotten by the czar and the elite. Karena Peshkova seeks to gain admittance to the prestigious Medical school in St.Petersburg in order to become a doctor but her dream for three years in a row have been dashed. She must content herself to work alongside her monther on her family's country estate as a midwife. But on a visit to her wealthy cousin's home in Kazan, Karena meets the dashing officer Alex Kronstadt who is promised in a political marriage to her cousin, Tatiana. The attraction between them is immediate but they both knew they could never act upon it. As the story prgresses, Karena finds herself a target for the Russian Imperial Secret Police as in league with the rebel leader of the Bolshevik. Certain that she is guilty of murder and conspiracy against the Czar, they are determined to hunt her down. Alex intervenes from afar, saving her life, while knowing that his action could jeopardize his career in the Russian military. Would he be able to get through and declare his love for Karena?

For now this is a standalone novel but I have been told that Linda's readers should write to the publisher of this book for a sequel. The ending was left open for more to the story. I would love for this story to continue!

Average customer rating:

Exciting book, but flawed.
An incredible story of South Africa and love...
Awesome continuation
Exceptional Read!
Such a great book

Yesterday's Promise (Chaikin, Linda)
Linda Lee Chaikin
Manufacturer: WaterBrook Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1578565146
Release Date: 2004-02-17

Book Description

BY THE AUTHOR OF THE BEST-SELLING SILK SERIES–OVER 150,000 COPIES IN PRINT!

He fought to seek his fortune.
Would he lose a greater treasure: the love he left behind?

As the son of the squire of Grimston Way, aristocrat Rogan Chantry has fought hard to win his independence from Sir Julien Bley and the British South Africa Company. Now, his pursuit of a mysterious deposit of gold, marked on a map willed to him by his murdered uncle, Henry Chantry, is challenged by a new complication: the impending British colonization of South Africa. Can Sir Rogan find the gold in the midst of escalating tensions among the native tribesmen, the missionaries sent to win them, and the new colonists?

Meanwhile, Evy Varley, the woman Rogan loves back in England, is headed for a brave yet dangerous confrontation with Henry’s killer–but at what price? With so much against Rogan and Evy, a reunion seems improbable, if not impossible. Can yesterday’s promise hold them faithful to the hope of future freedom and a victorious love?

Customer Reviews:

Exciting book, but flawed........2006-12-30

I was slightly disappointed in this book, but don't get me wrong...I loved it. My complaint is this: Rogan is in South Africa, while Evy is in England. The relationship between Rogan and Evy is what drove the first book for me...if it hadn't been for their constant interactions, I would have gotten slightly bored. So, since Rogan and Evy are apart for most of this book, it was harder to read and not as compelling. However, it was still great! It was nice to see things from Rogan's point of view, and the storyline in South Africa was very exciting. This book is my least favorite in the series, but it's still excellent.

An incredible story of South Africa and love..........2004-10-18

I must confess, I believe this series is one of the best by Linda Chaikin! I loved the characters. I loved the plot. And I loved the exotic background to the whole story! The future Sir Rogan Chantry of Rookswood estate of Grimston Way, England is searching for the gold his uncle, Henry Chantry had left to him after Henry's supposed suicide. Despite facing his family's opposition and their own plans for him, Rogan sets out on his own to try to find the gold deposit in rich South Africa. His incredible journey to Bulawayo and Salisbury were well-detailed and well-thought out. The description of the colonists' journey admidst the escalating tensions of the natives and the Boers were also well-descripted. In England, Evy Varley has finally accomplished her dream of having her own piano school. But a confrontation with Henry's murderer has left her scarred for life. Will she and Rogan be reunited? Or will they lose the love they had discovered before Rogan left for South Africa? I couldn't put this book down, I finished it in one day. The suspense of finding out who is Henry's killer and Evy's attacker and the impending reunion of Rogan and Evy kept me reading to the satisfying end. But as you know, there is "Today's Embrace" which will continue the story of Rogan and Evy and their destiny in South Africa so I will definitely buy the third book when it comes out. Linda Chaikin is definitely one of my favourite authors and I can't wait to find out what she has in store for Rogan and Evy and other characters she will create in the near future!

Awesome continuation.......2004-07-11

Chaikin has done it again. This spectacular writer keeps me coming for more with this next installment of the "East of the Sun" series. The mystery of Evy's attacker kept me guessing and anticipation over Rogan's and Evy's reunion kept my eyes glued to the pages. Can't wait till the conclusion -- Linda, please write fast!

Exceptional Read!.......2004-06-21

Linda Chaikin does a terrific job in this sequel to Tommorow's Treasure. I absolutely love the main characters, Rogan and Evy. This book, like it's prequel is a must read. You are sure to love it because it has just the right mix of everything.

Such a great book.......2004-05-15

I read this and the first book "Tomorrow's Treasure" back to back. Both were wonderful. The storyline becomes so much clearer in this one. I can't wait to read the third book.

Average customer rating:

Another amazing book by Linda Chaikin!
One of the best ever written by Linda Chaikin!
One of the Best
even better than the first! (if that's possible)
Lion of the Desert

Lions of the Desert
Linda Chaikin
Manufacturer: Multnomah
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1576731146
Release Date: 1997-10-01

Book Description

Lions of the Desert opens up in 1915, over a year after the conclusion of Arabian Winds. Nurse Allison Wescott arrives in busy Cairo to serve the British military confronting Kaiser's Germany and their ally, Turkey. In Cairo, Allison meets Major Bret Holden again after his return from London, and their previous romantic but rocky relationship is resumed. But the man she has been thinking of marrying has also arrived to serve as a chaplain with historical Oswald Chambers, who is ministering to British and Australian troops. In the dark and trying times of world war, Allison most come to grips with her divided heart and make a choice that she will live with for the rest of her life.

Customer Reviews:

Another amazing book by Linda Chaikin!.......2006-12-17

This is the second book in Linda Chaikin's Egypt series, and it's almost as good as the first book. Allison's story continues in this book, with a new tale of murder, suspense, and espionage, while continuing the love story between Allison and Bret. As I stated in my review of "Arabian Winds", the chemistry between these two characters is impeccable--you can almost see it! And once again, the plot in this book will have you up all night...you simply can't wait to find out what happens! A definite must-read for any Christian romance fans, as well as Christian fiction and mystery fans.

If you're new to this series, make sure to read "Arabian Winds" first (it's book #1). This one is book #2, and "Valiant Hearts" is the third and final book in this exhilirating and captivating series.

One of the best ever written by Linda Chaikin!.......2002-06-22

Wow! What can I say? This book is full of adventure, romance and intrigue during one of the worst times in the world's history. Allison Wescott is serving in a field hospital trying to get Major Bret Holden out of her mind and focus on her duties a year later after the events of 1914. Wade Findlay arrives as a medical intern and Allison decides to join him in treating wounded British soldiers near Baghdad. She was totally unprepared for Bret's reappearance in her life and the feelings that came along with him. After a tragedy near Baghdad, Allison goes home on medical leave. Little did she know that she will stumble once again into espionage and murder. Allison and Bret must find the murderer and the Egyptian treasure that everyone seems to want. A great story about finding love in uncertain times, faith in the Lord and courage. I heartily recommend this for a great exciting read!

One of the Best.......2000-09-18

One of the best books I've ever read,(and I've read a lot of Christian fiction). Chaikin does a great job of keeping you guessing. This book is full of action, suspense, and romance. It would make a great movie actually. The war scenes at the beginning are drawn out a bit long, but the suspense at Sarah Blaine's house more than makes up for it. After Book 1, I thought the second book would have to be of lesser quality, but I was wrong. Book 2 was even better! Now I can hardly wait to read #3. This book is a must read.

even better than the first! (if that's possible).......2000-05-15

Again, I say wow! Linda Chaikin delights us again with the thrilling second book in the Lions of the Desert series. In this book, Allison Wescott is in the Arabian Desert, nursing wounded WWI soldiers in August 1915. Colonel Bret Holden has disappeared from her life, and she struggles to go on amidst all the pain and agony. Suddenly, Bret shows up again and she's swept into a whirlwind of events in the espionage ring again. She stays at the Blaine House with Sarah Blaine and there seems to be an invisible, mysterious intruder watching her every move! When seemingly innocent people are murdered brutally, Allison and Bret must look deeper...who can they trust? No one is who they seem to be...

This book will kep you thrilled till the very end. I highly recommend it!

Lion of the Desert.......2000-01-29

All of Linda's books are well written. I was fascinated by her descriptions of World War I and the strength of her characters who lived it. This story kept me interested from beginning to end.

Tomorrow's Treasure (Chaikin, L. L., East of the Sun, 1.)

Average customer rating:

Good book!!
Great start to a great series!
Very enjoyable!
Awesome!
Be aware: This is Christian Fiction, Heavy on the Christian

Tomorrow's Treasure (Chaikin, L. L., East of the Sun, 1.)
Linda Lee Chaikin
Manufacturer: WaterBrook Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1578565138
Release Date: 2003-02-18

Book Description

Raised by her aunt and uncle at the rectory in the small English village of Grimston Way, lovely Evy Varley remembers little of her missionary parents and nothing of South Africa, the land where she was orphaned during the Zulu War of 1878. But when Sir Rogan Chantry, the arrogant and handsome son of the local Squire, accuses Evy’s mother of stealing the infamous Kimberly Black Diamond, Evy sets out to prove the rogue wrong and clear her mother’s name.

Secrets abound, however, from the diamond mines of South Africa to the halls of her own beloved rectory. Strangers come to Grimston Way for their own mysterious purposes, a stunned Evy finds that her own aunt and uncle may have concealed disturbing truths about her family, and the dashing Sir Rogan has his own reasons to seek the missing diamond.

Yet despite Rogan’s seemingly rakish ways and the class differences that render a romance between them impossible, Evy finds herself drawn to the man who was once her childhood friend and now holds the keys to her heart. Faced with a dangerous past and an uncertain future, Evy must draw upon her wits and her faith to pursue Tomorrow’s Treasure.

A story of faith, danger and romance, Tomorrow’s Treasure is a masterpiece of historical suspense fiction.

Customer Reviews:

Good book!!.......2007-05-03

I wish I could give it 4.5 stars! I think 5 stars should be preserved for my absolute favorite books, although this was good, I still like some others a little better.
I really liked this book, although I think it is a bit frustrating at times; the main character is sometimes too much like a door mat! Besides the door mat thing, I liked the characters and how the story ends! I liked the plot and the storyline too. I can't wait to see the next book, I want to see what happens next!! Good job Linda!

Great start to a great series!.......2006-12-30

What a refreshing series! Once again, Linda Chaikin delivers a tale of romance, intrigue, murder, and fascinating history...she's so unique in the Christian romance world. Although this book is slower in its pacing than her Egypt trilogy ("Arabian Winds", etc.), I was interested at all times because of the wonderful interactions between Rogan and Evy. The relationship between the two was perfectly paced and wonderfully written. The plot was interesting as well...I grew up in Africa, so I was eager to read all the fascinating facts about the history of South Africa. I'm just getting started with Linda's books, and I can't wait!

Very enjoyable!.......2006-10-04

Just finished this book and was very pleased, can't wait to read the next two. The beginning of the book is a little slow and it does go on and on about her childhood but it is well worth it in the end. I would like to marry Rogan myself! All in all, a very good read.

Awesome!.......2006-05-23

This is a really good book! If you haven't read it then your missing out on one of Chaikin's best series! Tomorrow's Treasure is both a romance and a mystery. Definately a book you won't be able to put down!

Be aware: This is Christian Fiction, Heavy on the Christian.......2006-04-18

I ordered this book because of the incredibly high ratings, but I guess I didn't read closely enough -- I had no idea I was buying a Christian book.

I figured it out after about three chapters, much of which contained verse, which I thought was just part of the story, until it became very clear to me that this is a "Christian Message Book." Then I read the author profile in the book, which stated that the book was written for "The Christian Market."

I am Jewish, and I am used to reading books that are about Christian people, but I was not interested in this kind of book.

In it's favor, the premise of this book appeared promising, if a bit overly romanticized and "sacharin-sweet." The writing was good, although a bit formal at times.

Mostly, I wanted to put in this review so that other potential readers would be aware of the nature of the book. If you appreciated this info, mark this review "helpful," so it will be listed prominently.

Average customer rating:

Rather Disappointing
Not Linda's best by far, but an excellent story nevertheless.
Nice story, painful French
An excellent read!
An interesting historical time but a rather disappointing story overall

Daughter of Silk
Linda Lee Chaikin
Manufacturer: Zondervan
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Written on Silk (The Silk House)
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A Bride Most Begrudging

ASIN: 031026300X

Book Description

A young silk heiress is caught in the dangerous tide of French history during the reign of the evil Queen Mother, Catherine de Medici. Uncovering a diabolical plot, Rachelle joins forces with the handsome rebel Marquis Fabien de Vendome—but will they be in time?

Customer Reviews:

Rather Disappointing.......2007-01-01

So I was so looking forward to this book. I started to read it and my first thoughts were WHAT??? This doesn't seem to be in L. Chaikin's style at all. I found the characters 2D. They didn't have anything about them that drew me. I found Rachelle rather sappy. Fabien well wasn't very competent. I like stories where they don't have everything happen right but this was just plain retarded. I also like stories w/real history but I felt the story was overwhelmed by the history and just plain rambling of this person and this or such.

Not Linda's best by far, but an excellent story nevertheless........2006-12-18

Linda L. Chaikin has a way of seamlessly weaving together romance, suspense, and history, and she doesn't disappoint in "Daughter of Silk". The plot is exciting and compelling, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end. The romance is slightly rushed, but I enjoyed it anyway, and I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in this series!

Nice story, painful French.......2006-12-17

This book was a quick and easy read. I like how Ms. Chaikin incorporated so much historical fact into her story, the plot line was consistent, and the characters engaging.

However, I couldn't handle her "use" of French. I'm not sure why, but she used many French words in the story rather than English. Simple words such as uncle, or cousin. The latter was consistently misspelled throughout. If you have had even an introductory course in French, then you understand the feminine/masculine conjugations. These grammatical and usage rules were ignored, not only in the spelling, but also with the choice of words. All of the errors were unnecessary as she could have easily said the word in English. The French words and sayings in the book that needed to be written in French were done so correctly, so I wonder how someone who understands it's "chaise longue" rather than "chaise lounge" doesn't understand simple conjugations.

I felt that her attempt at using French words for no reason (those that didn't need to remain in French for idiomatic or cultural reasons) was pretentious, and not even done properly. This upsets me because other than the errors (almost guaranteed one every other page), I really enjoyed the book. The story line and characters hooked me, and even though I'll cringe again when reading the sequel, I know I'm looking forward to it's release.

An excellent read! .......2006-11-17

Linda Chaikin always seems to come through with another great book just when you think her books couldn't get any better. I found Rachelle a refreshing heroine who had actual depth. And who couldn't love Fabien? While Madame Le Serpent practically gave me shivers. And her son? Almost gave me nightmares! I love reading books with adventure and realistic villains. I had not known much prior about the Hugenots but now find myself facinated with that period of time and the courageous people who fought for their faith, even risking their life. I would recommend this book to anyone who gets sick of sappy Christian romance sometimes. I LOVED THIS BOOK!

An interesting historical time but a rather disappointing story overall.......2006-11-11

This book follows the young Rachelle Macquinet, a silk seamstress and secret Protestant, within the court of Catherine de Medici. Many historical figures play central roles in this book, along with fictional characters, and there were a lot of people in this story which was occasionally confusing.

The underlying plot is the danger to Huguenot Protestants from the Catholic Inquisition alongside a blossoming romance between Rachelle, a Calvinist, and the Marquis de Vendôme, a Catholic. The three page glossary of French terms at the beginning was rather startling - especially as within the text some of the French was incorrectly used and random French words were liberally sprinkled around to no great effect.

The central love affair - a coup de foudre - seemed all rather implausible to me and I found the Christian element, as in so many historical novels, sat uneasily with the characters and behaviours of the time - our heroine seemed to speak with a 21st Century Christian's mind. Overall the book was mostly well written, describing the clothing, customs and intrigues of the 16th century French court, but it also unfortunately often descended into cheesy phrases; it is probably more suited to the American market than British readers.

Average customer rating:

Exciting and enjoyable series
Wow! I think this is one of Linda Chaikin's best!!!
A wonderful read
Maybe slow to start, but...
Silk is an interesting read, but it has dull parts.

Silk (Heart of India)
Linda Chaikin
Manufacturer: Bethany House Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1556612486

Book Description

Two worlds clash as a young English heiress and an orphaned boy, an "untouchable," become inextricably entwined,

Coral Kendall is an heiress to the Kingscote Silk Plantation in northern India in the last decade of the 1700s. Breaching cultural boundaries and shunning the scorn of her wealthy English family, she adopts a young orphaned boy, an "Untouchable" from the bottom of the Hindu class system, and brings him into her home. Despite their contrasting cultures and backgrounds, the bond of love that develops between Coral and Gem is that of a mother and son. But tragedy strikes when the boy is abducted and the body later found in the river.

Was there a reason to believe that Gem did not perish? Was the boy's true identity what she had been led to believe? How could she discover the truth?

One man may hold the key to her son. Can she discover the truth and win the struggle for the seagoing trader's heart?

A fascinating new historical series from the time of William Carey.

Customer Reviews:

Exciting and enjoyable series.......2007-01-01

This is a wonderful, exciting series full of romance, suspense, and adventure. Linda Chaikin's creative talent still surprises me, and I loved the story of Coral, Jace, and Gem. I finished the book in two sittings...I couldn't put it down! The book is far from perfect, however, and you can tell that this series came near the beginning of Linda Chaikin's writing career. Her formula of mystery and suspense with accurate historical facts is perfected with her Egypt series ("Arabian Winds", "Lions of the Desert", and "Valiant Hearts"). Her "Heart of India" series has many plot-holes, and the story can become too confusing at times. It's hard to remember all of the names, and I found myself looking back through the book, trying to remember which character is good and which character is evil.

The second book, "Under Eastern Stars", is my favorite in this series, so if you're slightly disappointed in "Silk", read on. It gets better (in my opinion). I would definitely recommend this series to any fans of Christian fiction, romance, mystery, and historical fiction.

Wow! I think this is one of Linda Chaikin's best!!!.......2002-03-17

What can I say? This book is great! Linda Chaikin takes us to 1700s British India to a silk plantation of a wealthy British family: The Kendalls. Coral Kendall is one of the daughters of the plantation's owner: Hampton Kendall. Coral Kendall adopts a Hindu child, an untouchable, against the wishes of her uncle and the dashing, handsome officer Jace Buckley. A terrifying incident results in the kidnapping of Gem and the child's body that was found in the river. Coral is certain that the child that was found in the river is not Gem and she's determined to find him and bring him home. The book gets kind of slow towards the middle but you must read on!!! Romance, intrigue, danger surrounds everyone in the book. I believe this is one Linda Chaikin's best works!

A wonderful read.......2001-07-20

This book is a wonderful, wonderful read. I simply could not put it down, and it ranked up there under my top 5. I simply can NOT wait to purchase the next two books in the series and begin devouring them as well!

Maybe slow to start, but..........2001-06-01

I would have to admit that it took me a while to get into this book. It does have some slow spots, and yes, it does leave you with a cliffhanger... however,it is so worth it once you get to books two and three. I finished the second book in a day, and was already halfway through the next book the second day. This is the first time I have read any of Linda Chaikin's books, but I am definitely looking forward to starting another series.

Silk is an interesting read, but it has dull parts........2001-03-16

I picked up this book on a random shelf skim at my schools library. It was the synopsis on the back that intriged me. upon reaching the end I was disappointed that it left me with such a clumsy cliffhanger. The book switches first persons between two characters: 1) Coral Kendall- the sickly daughter of a prosperous silk farmer. She is head-strong which counteracts her weak body. And even though she is sickly she is still very beautiful. 2) Jace Buckley- A dashing and handsome indipendent major in the army. He longs to get out of the army to be a sea captain like his father. Then he hopes to set up a wild tea plantation with coral's brother michael in Darjeeling. They meet on the night coral's untouchable turned christian friend Jemani is having her baby. She dies after the delivery, leaving her baby to coral's care. Major Buckley arrives( he is there in search of a man eating tiger supiosedly close by), he escourts coral to the house and warns her not to care for the child or there will be trouble.... The novel as a whole is good, but there are some really boring parts in it. Also on a personal note if you do not like books with a lot of religous beliefs worked in avoid this book its jam packed with Christianity. I am a christian so I don't mind but for those that do I'm just warning you. If you want to learn more about where silk comes from this would be a fun way to find out. All in all it could have been better, but I would not say I wish I had not picked it up, that's why I gave it three stars.

Swords and Scimitars (The Royal Pavilions, No. 1)

Average customer rating:

Enjoyable...
Swords and Scimitars
Please make this rating go up!!!!
Be Smart
I'm taking time to write just to make the rating go up

Swords and Scimitars (The Royal Pavilions, No. 1)
Linda Lee Chaikin
Manufacturer: Bethany House Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

Golden Palaces (The Royal Pavilions , No 2)
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ASIN: 1556618816

Book Description

Historical RomanceLarge Print EditionFramed for a murder he didnt commit, Tancred Redwan is a knight torn between his fathers Norman blood and the Moorish blood of his mother. Forced to flee for his life, Tancred travels the golden hills of Palermo to the seven jeweled hills of the Byzantine capitol. Caught up in the turbulent events surrounding the Peasant Crusade, he is again forced to make a difficult choice as Christian Europe arms for the First Crusade to rescue the Holy Lands from infidels.

Customer Reviews:

Enjoyable..........2003-07-23

This first book in the trilogy captures the reader's attention, and makes him want to read the other two. It was hard to find though, because the set has gone out of print, I was lucky enough to find it at my library though. Tancred is somewhat typical of Chaikin's male characters, and the twist with him is somewhat similar to that of Bruce Hawkins in Captive Heart (the first installment in Chaikin's Trade Winds series).
The second and third books are slightly more exciting, but for starters, this really is a good book.

Swords and Scimitars.......2003-03-07

Swords and Scimitars by Linda Chaikin is a great book. I like how Mrs. Chaikin got her historical people and events so accurate. She has good character development and a great plot summery. The dialoged in Swords and Scimitars is also well done. I would recommend this book to anyone that likes historical-fiction novels.

Please make this rating go up!!!!.......2002-07-05

This book is definitely a five starer or even more!! Lady Helena Lysander of the Nobility is caught up in political intrigue in the Byzantine city, Constantinople in 1096 during the crusades; intrigue that would have her ended up a reluctant bride of a Moslem prince. Tancred Jehan Redwan is a Norman/Moorish warrior framed for murdering his half-brother, Derek and escaped craven to pursue Mosul his Moorish cousin, the assassin. He is caught up with the events of the Peasant crusade led by Peter the Hermit and meets Helena on his way to Constantinople. Helena was searching for her uncle, Nicholas, to try to thwart her aunt Irene's plans and find her mother whom she believes is not dead but held captive in the Moslem territory. Tancred's and Helena's paths entwined and she decides to enlist his help in locating her mother and escaping marriage to the Moslem prince. Great story about love, courage during the First Crusade. Linda Chaikin did a great job with this book!

Be Smart.......2000-12-21

I read this book and I found it veeeeery interesting. Surely, all good readers will find it an interesting book because it has history, romance, and is very realistic. Note: A realistic book needs to have more than two characters, no?. All the intelligent people that read all the reviews must read this book. When you read this book, if you are intelligent enough, you will want to read the others.

I'm taking time to write just to make the rating go up.......2000-01-22

I don't have much time, but I can't believe some people gave such bad reviews for this books. It's not one of my favorites, but it is well done. Furthermore, it is meant as a sort of lead in to all that happens between Helena and Tancred. It is a scrumptious book! I took the time to write this review, so hope hope that you take the time to read the book. It's worth it!

Average customer rating:

Good read, but not the best.
Definitely Not One of Ms.Chaikins better.........
A wonderful conclusion to this awesome series!
The Perfect Conclusion
Suspenseful, True.

Today's Embrace (East of the Sun)
Linda Lee Chaikin
Manufacturer: WaterBrook Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Mothers & Children | Women's Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Romance | Fiction | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

General | Fiction | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

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General | Historical | Romance | Subjects | Books

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Similar Items:

Yesterday's Promise (Chaikin, Linda)
Tomorrow's Treasure (Chaikin, L. L., East of the Sun, 1.)
Daughter of Silk
Written on Silk (The Silk House)
Desert Star (Chaikin, Linda)

ASIN: 1578565154
Release Date: 2005-02-15

Book Description

She gambled with her husband’s trust. At stake is–everything.

Evy Varley's marriage to Rogan Chantry is all she had hoped it would be–until she finds out that she is pregnant with a honeymoon baby. Fearing that Rogan won’t allow her to travel while she is expecting, Evy plots to keep her pregnancy secret in order to accompany him to South Africa. Her thoughts are not only for her husband, but Evy is determined to travel to Bulawayo, the new mission station of Dr. Jakob van Buren–the one man who can help Evy to finally clear her mother’s name.

After she and Rogan set out to sea, however, Evy discovers that she has gone too far in her deceit, and the damage to her marriage may be irreversible. Matters only worsen in Africa, where malaria, murder, and an African uprising all take their toll–and where Rogan and Evy must fight not only for their love, but also for their very lives.

Customer Reviews:

Good read, but not the best........2006-12-30

I enjoyed this series a lot, though I admit that it's flawed. This book is rushed at times, while too descriptive at others. It felt forced at times, and it didn't flow as naturally as the first book did. But I did love it--Darinda's storyline especially interested me, and I found myself wishing Linda had written a spin-off about Darinda and Captain Retford. The storyline with Rogan and Evy was refreshing to read...Evy's mistake in being dishonest with her husband is one we all make, though we hardly ever read about. I would definitely recommend this series, though it's not perfect. If you enjoyed this, check out her Egypt trilogy, starting with "Arabian Winds". You won't be disappointed!

Definitely Not One of Ms.Chaikins better................2005-10-31

Though it's an interesting tale,...I couldn't help but be disappointed. I loved the first two books... and I feel somewhat disappointed in the third. I felt that Rogan and Evy were not the same characters than in the previous two books. Your focus is no longer on Evy and Rogan,.. but on other characters.(Which is a good thing,... but I almost stopped caring as to what happens to Rogan and Evy!) Though it's an interesting mystery and I enjoyed that aspect of it, I can't say it's an equal to Ms.Chaikin's previous works.

A wonderful conclusion to this awesome series!.......2005-04-29

"Today's Embrace" appropriately titled will grip you until the end of the story. As Rogan and Evy prepare for their trip to South Africa to the land where Evy was born and rescued long ago, they first experience marital bliss in which soon Evy finds herself expecting their first child. Determined to make the trip anyway to Bulawayo with her husband, Evy plots to keep her pregnancy secret so Rogan will let her travel. But while on their journey, Evy realizes her deception have gone way too far and her marriage could be damaged beyond repair. Rogan leaves Evy at her uncle Jakob's mission and sets out on his quest to find Henry's mysterious gold deposit while at the same time trying to dodge his uncle Julien's efforts to stop him. Not only has this book have the mystery and suspense of Rogan's journey, there is the potential uprising by the natives, murder and malaria that threaten both Evy and Rogan's lives. Will they repair their marriage before it's too late? Linda Chaikin did an awesome job with this series which is unlike I ever read by her. I am really looking forward to her next series....

The Perfect Conclusion.......2005-04-01

This is the perfect conclusion to the East of the Sun trilogy and captures perfectly the very nature of people at their best and particularly, at their worst. After laying a fine foundation in the first book, Tomorrow's Treasure, and pulling the story along in the second book (Yesterday's Promise) with sweeping descriptions of Africa and the diamond business, following Evy and Rogan into what starts out as the perfect marriage is emotive and exciting - what every girl dreams of. To step with them into the small compromises that send them spiralling to the depths of grudges and regret is portrayed in such a realistic way that at times I found myself relating against my will!
Another reader I know likened the ending to a bag of peas with a hole in it that had been spilling out peas one by one, until finally the bag gave way and everything tumbled out in a stunning conclusion, leaving the reader both shocked and greatly satisfied.
If you make it this far, you will NOT be sorry. I give this book 5 stars, and highly recommend it. Although we experience some of the facets Linda Chaikin has used several times, such as slave uprisings and mission stations, it's completely unlike any other book this author has ever brought her readers. Snap it up today and kick back as the ride takes full force.

Suspenseful, True........2005-02-25

After reading the other two books in this series, I could not wait for the third installment. I was not disappointed. It provided me with a detailed looked into married life as God wants it, and the conflicts that arose between Evy and Rogan by not following God's will. I enjoyed the fast pace of everything that has happened so far culminating in South Africa and how my knowledge of each character was enriched. The story is not sugar-coated and light. I would recomend this to anyone interested in romance, history of South Africa, and an understanding of God's loving will in our lives.

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