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Customer Reviews for Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook

Dessa Caldwell has a dream---but needs a loan. Seeking funds to open a refuge for former prostitutes, she calls on financier Henry Hawkins. He agrees to give her the money, but doesn't bank on falling in love! Can he protect the secrets of his shady past, or will a villain force him to choose safety over love?
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10 out of 10100%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook
Review 1 for All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook
Overall Rating: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5

This is an excellent book.

Date:April 8, 2013
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PharmD
Location:Johnston,SC
Age:25-34
Gender:female
The main characters both struggle with mistakes that they have made in the past. This book reminds us that all can be forgiven though Christ our lord.
I enjoyed book one in the series as well.
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Review 2 for All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook
Overall Rating: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5

This is an enjoyable book

Date:April 18, 2013
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tickmenot
Location:Kansas City
Gender:female
Quality: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
This story begins with a stage coach robbery. A number of years later, we find Dessa, a former maid, in 1887 Denver. She wishes to get a loan to start Pierson House. This will be a home for women who want to get off the streets. It is to be named after Dessa’s late friend who got her started in street ministry.
Dessa has an uphill climb to get a loan. After all the other banks in Denver have turned her down, she walks into the bank owned by Henry Hawkins. Henry is the stiffest, most unfriendly, man in town.
Amazingly, Dessa gets the loan. This is nothing short of a miracle since Henry was antagonistic towards the Pierson House project specifically, and against giving a loan to any woman in general. However, his uncle Tobias took matters into his own hands, and granted Dessa the money.
Dessa depends on pledges from the community to start and run Pierson House. Because of that, she naively accepts the help of Turk Foster to hold a fund raiser. Unbeknownst to Dessa, Turk has a notorious reputation. If he is tied to Pierson House in anyway, her current supporters will pullback their contributions, and she won’t get any new patrons either.
Besides Turk, Dessa has many trials with Pierson House. Instead of women flooding to her for refuge, she has hardly a trickle. The home is located in the very worst part of Denver, the Fourth Ward, and no one in that area wants to be seen getting help there. Henry Hawkins seems to criticize her every move, and makes it clear he thinks she will default on the loan, and he will be able to take possession of the house.
The Fourth Ward also has a Chinese population. Recently there had been a riot between the people of the Fourth Ward and the Chinese people. As a result, there is hostility between the races. Dessa is warned not to have anything to do with the Chinese people because it could start another riot–even if she is only trying to help them.
As the story goes on, we find Henry has kept a secret that could destroy his life, Turk has political ambitions that make him willing to do anything to get himself elected, and although Dessa has pledged herself to a life of celibacy, she would like to change her mind. However she has a secret of her own that she believes might force her to stay in that lifestyle. Will any of these people get to have the life they want, or will one or more of them never achieve it? Dessa would also like to help a pair of Chinese sisters. She thinks she might have a plan so no one will be aware of her help–but will her good intentions start another riot?
The lives of Dessa, Henry and Turk along with the fate of Pierson House, all become interwoven to give us a tale of drama, action and romance–with twists, turns and surprises along the way. The characters are very interesting and believable. The picture the author paints of Denver at that time rings true. Christianity is a natural part of Dessa’s life, as well as some of the other characters in the book. I enjoyed this story and recommend this–I give it 5 stars.
The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Tyndale Blog Network (Tyndale House Publishers) for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.
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Review 3 for All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook
Overall Rating: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5

Date:April 7, 2013
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Johanna
Having never read any of Maureen Lang’s books before, although having wanted to on countless occasions, I must say she knows how to spin together an amazing story. All in Good Time is such a deep novel with a lot of aspects to it that make the plot flow really well, despite all the elements associated with it.
Dessa Caldwell has a dream: to open Pierson House, a refuge for former prostitutes in Denver’s roughest neighbourhood. But after exhausting all charitable donations, Dessa still needs a loan, and nearly every bank in town has turned her down. Her last hope hinges on the owner of Hawkins National Bank.
Henry Hawkins has a secret: though he owns the most successful bank in town, his initial capital came from three successful raids on Wells Fargo coaches. Now he’s the most eligible bachelor in Denver, but to protect his criminal past, he’s built a fortress around his heart. Not even the boldest matchmaking mother can tempt him . . . until the day Dessa Caldwell ventures into his bank requesting a loan.
Though he’s certain her proposal is a bad investment, Henry is drawn to Dessa’s passion. But that same passion drives her to make rash decisions about Pierson House . . . and about whom she can trust. One man might hold the key to the future of her mission—but he also threatens to bring Henry’s darkest secrets to light. As the walls around their hearts begin to crumble, Henry and Dessa must choose between their plans and God’s, between safety and love.
I’ll be honest- beginning to read this story took a long and slow process because it just seemed to drag on. This is mainly because I probably wasn’t in the mood for reading, however knew that I should probably get it read. Initially though the blurb sounded really interesting and intrigued me, which thankfully returned the more I read deeper into the plot.
I love the idea of Pierson House and its work with helping the women. The courage Dessa possessed was really humbling, despite the struggles she was faced with. Determined to tend to her calling, Dessa does everything in her power to help the lost women in this society, even if it means putting her life at risk. I don’t know about you, but I personally would have struggled in wanting to make sure I look good and am accepted by society first before helping others so desperate. Nonetheless Dessa proved that it is possible and that the people who truly care about you will be the ones whose opinion matters most.
However for me, the growing attraction between Dessa and Henry seemed to take all too long. Although their feelings for each other was made known early on, I feel that it was still in the early stages all throughout the novel. Although it did grow so that each trusted and was comfortable around the other, I believe that Henry’s shyness got in the way. Yes, it is adorable when the guy feels vulnerable. But I also believe that it is important he possess confidence and self-belief. But I believe it is this attribute Dessa had. Although she didn’t quite believe in herself, she posed as a tough, determined and really self-assured woman. This is largely due to her strong belief in Christ. Still, I loved watching their relationship grow from friendship to marriage. The Epilogue was probably my favourite chapter because Henry and Dessa’s true personalities were portrayed- the kind I love reading about.
However the last couple chapters also communicated the kind of attraction I was hoping for. The hurdle and jealousy of Mr Turk Foster proved to catalyse their relationship needed for them to merge out of their comfort zones.
Most of the characters are also enjoyable to get to know, especially Jane, Remee and Mr Dunne who will definitely find a place in your heart.
What I loved about this story was how complex the plot was. All of the twists, as well as Henry and Dessa’s past, combined really nicely to make an interesting story. The challenges Dessa faced- Mr Foster’s kindness, Henry’s stubbornness, her determination and impatience of rushing to set up Pierson House all turned the story into something special.
I’m sorry if my review makes All in good time sound bad and uninteresting for it is quite the contrary. Maureen Lang is a talented author who definitely knows a good story. All in good Time is a story that should definitely be read.
*PLEASE NOTE: In exchange for an honest review, I received a free e-book copy of All in Good Time from Tyndale House Publishers. All opinions are strictly my own. *
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Review 4 for All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook
Overall Rating: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5

The Gilded Legacy

Date:April 4, 2013
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Its About Time Mamaw
Location:Cleveland, Texas
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Dessa Caldwell grieves for her friend Sophia Pierson, they had planned on starting a home for women who are caught up in white slavery and prostitution. Dessa is determined to carry out this dream. She has found a house in a not so respectable area that would be perfect in every way especially the price. But she needs a loan from the bank.
Henry Hawkins owns the local bank and his Uncle has just approved a large loan to Dessa Caldwell without his final approval. When she insist on thanking him, he could not take his eyes off her. He now had no intention of cancelling the loan. He doubted she would have any success with her venture but he had to admire her determination.
A local businessman of questionable reputation becomes enamored with Dessa and her cause, or will she become a pawn in his own plans. Although he is very attractive and acts the gentleman she has her doubts about his sincerity. Henry tries to warn her to not associate herself or the Pierson House with this man. She could loose everything she has worked so hard to build.
In this book the author brings to light white slavery and also of Chinese women sold into slavery. Women had few rights in 1887. Some married women were no better than slaves being forced to marry just for financial gain for their parents. In arranged and loveless marriages husbands abused their wives. In reading this story it is also very apparent employment opportunities were lacking for women, which caused some to starve or turn to prostitution.
The author did her research which made for an very interesting read. I am looking forward to her next book.
I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Tyndale Blog Network/Tyndale House for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. This review is my honest opinion.
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Review 5 for All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook
Overall Rating: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5

Date:March 30, 2013
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Kara
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
All in Good Time, by Maureen Lang, is the second book in the Gilded Legacy Series. Having not read the first book in this series, Bees in the Butterfly Garden, I was reluctant to begin this one. This book, however, stands alone well, drawing the reader into the story quickly and holding his attention to the very end.
In the story, Dessa Caldwell dreams of opening a home to offer shelter and rehabilitation for former prostitutes on the edge of one of Denver’s roughest neighborhoods. She is thrilled to find herself approved for the loan to do so, even though bank owner Henry Hawkins is obviously reluctant to help her. But Henry finds himself impressed with Dessa in spite of himself, and both of them hope to keep their past secrets from the other.
I very much enjoyed this book. Lang develops her characters well, giving them realistic personalities that one can easily relate to. She included those that Dessa could help as well as those that would obviously refuse her help. She also addressed the issue that sometimes people are called to help those whom society does not approve of assisting, a fact that remains even today.
I recommend this book to all who enjoy historical fiction.
Kara
I received this book free from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review.
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Review 6 for All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook
Overall Rating: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5

All In Good Time

Date:March 28, 2013
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WorryFreeMom
Location:TX
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Dessa Caldwell is a girl with a purpose. Determined to carry on the legacy of her friend and mentor, she decides to seek a loan to fund a home that will serve as a refuge for prostitutes. She knows that many of these women were not given a choice, and Pierson House will give them just that.
Unfortunately, the man who holds her future funds in his hands, Henry Hawkins, does not see the value in her dream. And neither do many of the shady characters in Denver whose fortunes are made on just the sort of activity Dessa hopes to provide an escape from.
In All in Good Time, Maureen Lang tells the story of two unlikely friends--both hiding secrets they feel too terrible to bear, and yet both needing to be loved. While I find some parts of this story a bit unrealistic, I highly enjoyed it. The characters are well developed and the story is interesting. I especially like the epilogue, in which Lang answers some of the questions remaining for readers about the characters.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.
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Review 7 for All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook
Overall Rating: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5

Two Hearts and Two Secrets

Date:March 25, 2013
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Sherrey
Location:Portland, OR
Age:Over 65
Gender:female
Quality: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Value: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
A woman with a dream to build a haven for former prostitutes in Denver circa 1887 and who needs money.
A banker who is highly successful with money to lend. What more could be needed to bring Dessa Caldwell’s dream to fruition? A great deal as Maureen Lang shares in her book, All in Good Time.
Lang’s characters come alive on the pages as Dessa obtains her loan from Henry Hawkins’s bank but not because of Hawkins’s approval. Hawkins’s uncle, Tobias Ridgeway, sees the goodness in Dessa’s plans and dreams and hopes to see her do well in cleaning up a part of Denver. Hawkins, however, only sees Dessa’s plans as foolhardy and futile, and he openly expresses his ability to foreclose if she misses a single payment date.
Despite their differences about Dessa’s hope for helping former prostitutes, Henry and Dessa begin to find themselves drawn to each other. Because of Dessa’s inability to wait patiently for things to happen, she finds herself in interesting scrapes and yes, even in danger. Turk Foster, a rake who runs an establishment serving gamblers, begins to pursue Dessa. But for his own purposes or to help her efforts?
A secret in Henry Hawkins’s past is troubling to him and threatens to destroy any possibly relationship with Dessa Caldwell, but he does not know that she too is hiding something. What will it take to bring the two together in a harmonious relationship? Lang once again uses this beautiful story to share the love of God and His faithfulness to each one of us, if only we believe.
This was my first Maureen Lang read, and I will read more. After receiving this historical romance novel from Tyndale House, I learned that All in Good Time is the second in the Guilded Legacy Series. After researching the series, I’m happy to report that the books in this series are stand-alone books and can be read in any order without fear of losing the thread of any story.
Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for providing a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.
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Review 8 for All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook
Overall Rating: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5

Date:March 16, 2013
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debwilson
Location:Summerfield, FL
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Dessa Caldwell has a dream that she desperately wants to become a reality - to open a house of refuge for former prostitutes in Denver, Colorado. She faces two obstacles; she is a single woman with no connections, and she has no money to open Pierson House on her own. Knowing for a certainty that God wants her to reach out to the city's despised women, her last hope hinges on Hawkins National Bank.
Henry Hawkins is not the friendliest of men. He has a secret past to hide, and making friends is not on his priority list. His vast wealth with his bank comes from three successful raids on Wells Fargo coaches. Now that he has become an honest businessman, he does whatever he has to do to protect his assets - and his heart. But when Dessa comes to him for a loan to launch Pierson House, he is drawn to her compassion for others with no thought of herself. Wary of a man Dessa associates with, Henry is reluctant to grant her the loan, as the man may bring all of Henry's past to light. Can Henry trust God to dictate his future? And can Dessa accept the fact that's God's plans are higher than ours?
Lang makes you feel like you are right there as the action happens. Even though she wields her sword through the power of her pen, she wields it mightily. You feel as if you don't turn that page, if you don't read one more chapter, everything hinges on you knowing just a little bit more. You feel personally invested in the story, as if by reading it, you can somehow change the outcome when the characters are at their lowest. Most books I can pretty much guess the ending, and the journey to that end is enjoyable. But Lang takes you on an adventure that leaves you breathless with excitement and makes that journey to the end riveting and spellbound to the very last page.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
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Review 9 for All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook
Overall Rating: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5

Impulsive actions may have consequences

Date:March 14, 2013
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crtnybc
Location:British Columbia, Canada
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
When Henry's Uncle Tobias give Dessa the bank loan she came looking for, he did not for a minute believe it to be a sound decision. In fact, Henry and Dessa seem as different as night and day, but the author does a good job of slowly weaving into the story the changes the characters go through to get to the end result. Sometimes when you know what's going to inevitably happen but just can't see it in the beginning, you can't really believe it in the end. This was done well.
One thing they have in common with each other is a propensity for impulsive action. It gets them both into all kinds of trouble before they begin to learn to stop, pray, and seek counsel before making rash decisions, that while they are made with the best intentions, are not the best way to go.
I received a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. My opinion is my own. Thank you Tyndale House.
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Review 10 for All in Good Time, Gilded Legacy Series #2 -eBook
Overall Rating: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5

Good read

Date:February 3, 2013
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thewritingbichone
Location:Macon, Georgia
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
I grabbed it up and started skimming through, and before I knew it, had read the whole book.
It wasn’t full of mystery or sensationalism, it was just a book about a young woman who wants to help former prostitutes and the man with the money who can make her dream come true.
Dessa Caldwell has good intentions, but at the same time, she is a bit stubborn and impulsive in her thinking and plans. Henry Hawkins is guarded with a history, and he has put a wall up around his life – his heart.
The two don’t seem to mesh well, but Lang takes her time and shows just how right they are for each other , and the importance of letting go of control and allowing God’s plans to take priority.
It is a real good read with a lesson that needs to be taught over and over.
Four stars!
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