Fiction Based on Strange, But True History
Description
True, riveting stories of American criminal activity are explored through a unique stories of historical romantic suspense. Collect them all and be inspired by the hope that always finds its way even in the darkest of times.
In 1907, shy but loyal Ingrid Storset travels from Norway to support her grieving sister, Belle Gunness, who owns a farm in LaPorte, Indiana. Well-to-do widow Belle, who has lost two husbands and several children, provides Ingrid with enough money to start a small business. But Ingrid is confused by the string of men Belle claims to be interviewing for her next husband. When Nils Lindherud comes to town looking for his missing brother, who said he was going to marry Belle, Ingrid has a sinking feeling her sister is up to no good.
Details
- Title The Gold Digger
- Author Liz Tolsma
- Publisher Barbour
- Series True Colors – Book 9
- Category Historical Fiction/Suspense
- Release Date December 1, 2020
- Pages 256
- Content Rating Christian, but a few descriptive scenes regarding death could bother some.
My Thoughts
I didn’t realize when I started reading this book that it was part of a series. But when I discovered that fact I checked out the other books. Oh my goodness. First, the book covers drew my interest, and then I read a few of the descriptions. I can’t wait to delve into more of this series.
Okay, that being said, I guess you can sense my excitement about this writer and reading more cases based on facts that are stranger than fiction. I didn’t mean to get sidetracked, but now you know that I must have been pleased with this book.
The characters reminded me of those you might find in a cozy mystery. Though, honestly, I’m not sure if I’ve ever read one. But many of them just seemed relatable and sweet. And parts of the story were sweet. Wouldn’t it have been nice if the facts ended that way? But we know, at least one character is rotten to the core. These special characters had me quickly turning pages.
This story, which is based on historical facts, focuses on Belle Gunness, who puts ads in the newspaper searching for a husband to help her run her farm. But when one man, who has brought her the cash to help pay the mortgage, disappears it leads to trouble for her.
Nils Linderhud, the brother of the man who disappeared, brings to light lots of problems for Belle. Things she’d rather keep private. Forever.
Tolsma does an excellent job of creating interesting characters that keep the story moving. She also manages to gently add a message of faith throughout. Plus, as with any good mystery, she creates some reasons to keep us doing a little bit of guessing.
As mentioned in the Details, this is based on a true crime, though fictional characters also come into play. Crime obviously isn’t a pretty picture, however, the author manages to share enough details to make the story complete, without bringing into play too much hear-breaking description.
What Concerned Me
Nothing
What I Liked Best
Tolsma was able to research a fact, and then put her personal touches to make it come to life. I loved that she shared her research and pointed out exactly what was based on truth and how other facts and fiction were woven to make the story complete. The excellent writing brought it all to life for me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.
Rating
About the Author
Excerpt from Liz Tolsma’s page:
When I’m not in front of my computer, I enjoy walking my hyperactive Jack Russell terrier mix, reading, cooking, working in my large perennial garden, kayaking, camping, and traveling with my family.
I am also a breast cancer survivor. It has been a journey of deep faith and trust in the Lord, but he has sustained me and granted me healing.
The greatest love in my life is my Lord Jesus. I pray that my writing, as well as my entire life, will be to his honor and glory alone.
