Paint and Nectar

 

Back Cover

In 1929, a spark forms between Eliza, a talented watercolorist, and William, a charming young man with a secret that could ruin her career. Their families forbid their romance because of a long-standing feud over missing heirloom silver. Still, Eliza and William's passion grows despite the barriers, causing William to deeply regret the secret he's keeping...but setting things right will come at a cost.

In present-day Charleston, a mysterious benefactor gifts Lucy Legare an old house, along with all the secrets it holds - including enigmatic letters about an antique silver heirloom. Declan Pinckney, whom Lucy's been avoiding since their disastrous first date, is set on buying her house for his family's development company. As Lucy uncovers secrets about the house, its garden, and the silver, she becomes more determined than ever to preserve the historic Charleston property, not only for history's sake but also for her own.

Review

Paint and Nectar is a beautifully written time-slip novel with several stories artfully woven together. I loved the little mysteries, the peeling back of layers of timelines and secrets to the answers within. It reminded me a little of the Nancy Drew mysteries whereby the heroine discovers the truth one little clue at a time, creating many delightful "Aha!" moments. I didn't realize at first that Paint and Nectar was book two in the "Heirloom Secrets" series, but not having read the first novel, The Dress Shop on King Street, didn't detract from my full enjoyment of this story. Ashley Clark has crafted a wonderful historical romance with strong themes of faith and restoration that has easily become one of my favourite reads of 2021. 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.