A Dazzle of Diamonds by Liz Johnson

 

I generally love Liz Johnson's books  (for a sweet contemporary series go check out her Red Door Inn!) but A Dazzle of Diamonds felt like a mixed bag for me.

As usual, Johnson focuses readers through the primary female character, in this case, Penelope Hunter an event planner with more than she could have planned for. Her job is in trouble as she attempts to plan her ex fiances wedding while helping best friend Tucker Westbrook run for Sheriff. The problem is that Tucker's family has been accused of being traitors in the war and now Penelope's only route to clear his name is helping him find the missing treasure from centuries past.

All in all, this novel had all the components I like in a summer romance. Old friends who don't realize they're in love (I'm a sucker for those as it mirrors my own romance), missing treasure, ties to the past, and an absolutely amazing supporting character.

So, why the mixed feelings, looking at the cover Penelope looks like ever other female lead, pretty and young. Tucker's inner monologue more than once appreciates her legs, her lips, and her curves. However, there was extra attention to mention Penelope's eating her feelings in brownies or wedding cake, the way her corset dug into her ribs, the special ordered size for her wedding gown. The dialogue in the book was written as a woman uncomfortable with her weight but the cover contrasted that greatly. The way her appearance and weight was addressed just felt uncomfortable and out of place in the way it was addressed and how Penelope was portrayed in the art.

Now that doesn't mean I didn't enjoy part of the book. Honestly I'm a firm, firm believer Aunt Shirley needs her own book. Honestly she was wise, intelligent, and loads of fun. Her sections of the book shone and I want more Aunt Shirley!

I also quickly found myself more engrossed in Caroline and Josiah's story. The way Johnson unraveled their tale with the old letters gave their story a great sense of pacing and I quickly became more invested in their story than the main characters. I actually confessed to my husband I would read the whole book just for their Civil War romance and intrigue.

3 stars out of 5

I received this book as part of the #RevellReads summer tour, all opinions are my own.