Revealing The Past

Behind Love’s Wall by Carrie Fancett Pagels is a charming dual timeline Christian novel that will warm your heart. It is part of the Doors To The Past series but can be read as a stand-alone.

Carrie Fancett Pagels always writes the most delightful novels. My heart always leaps for joy at a new offering from her as I settle down for a few hours of pure hours of escapism into the most beautiful settings. As with previous novels Behind Love’s Wall is set on Mackinac Island surrounding the Grand Hotel. It was lovely to meet up with characters from previous books. As I found out in this book, the Grand Hotel was the setting for one of my favourite films, Somewhere In Time. This enabled me to perfectly picture the opulent setting and served to enhance my reading experience.

The action takes place in 1895 and present day in alternating chapters. The characters are linked by family lines.

Within both time periods there are parallel themes as characters search for the truth surrounding their family lines. We all need to know who we are and where we come from. Family is important. We all want to belong and be loved.

There is the theme of mental health. In 1895 this was not well understood and people were incarcerated in institutions. A character fears she may be turning into her mother as she searches for the truth of her recent past.

Treasures from the past enchant the reader and the characters. An old, long hidden diary is unearthed leading to some truths being uncovered.

Carrie Fancett Pagels always writes novels that entertain and enchant me. Her characters are always well drawn, likable and realistic. The dual timelines in Behind Love’s Wall enthrall me, awaking a sense of wonder. I absolutely adored Behind Love’s Wall and cannot wait to read more by Carrie Fancett Pagels.

I received a free copy via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

JULIA WILSON