I really wish I liked this book more. I enjoyed the historical aspects of it and learning more about the telegraph system but the story seemed to pat rather than imaginative. I know there are only so many plot lines to use but I know its possible to write on a topic in a fresh way and really engage readers. This one could have been better if the characters appealed to me but they just didn't. They were a bit flat and lacked originality. I've enjoyed Ms. Delamere's books before but this just wasn't one of those I cared for. Hopefully the next one will be more engaging!

Line by Line is an enjoyable Victorian romance. Though it did take me a bit to get into the novel (probably 50 pages or so), I soon began really enjoying my reading. I especially appreciated the dash of humor brought by both the banter and the frequent references to The Spinster's Guide to Love and Romance (a guide book that should make reappearances in future novels!).

I enjoyed the romance (especially Alice and Douglas's first kiss!), but I think what I liked the most was just viewing Alice's daily life. I also loved her spunk and that she could go toe-to-toe with any man. And I appreciated how both Alice and Douglas grew throughout the novel—they were not static characters.

Those who enjoy historical romance featuring strong women will find much to like in this novel!

The inspiration for this story was from a book titled “The Victorian Internet.” The author says, “It was fascinating to read about ways the telegraph’s impact on the world in the nineteenth century was similar to the internet in the twenty-first. “The world got smaller, news traveled faster, and businesses were completely altered. As with the internet, there were even scams and long-distance romances!”

I found it interesting that the author has Andrew Carnegie make a appearance in this novel sharing an actual trip across England and giving advice to Douglas about money that comes directly from Carnegie’s own writings.

I enjoyed the antidotes taken from a book The Spinster’s Guide to Love and Romance. This book causes many uncomfortable situations for the main character Alice as she tries to apply the suggestions from the book. I enjoyed how the author shows how some of the work situations in the book still exist today. I found it interesting to read about the “inevitable conflicts with coworkers, and the vital importance of business machines, Victorian offices don’t seem so different from many today.”

Alice is an independent, hardworking, strong women with a good work ethic. She is willing to do the tasks no one wants to do to gain a higher position. Alice tests Douglas and his motivation for doing what he is doing to climb the business ladder. I giggled and liked how Alice used suggestions from the Spinster book to help her get along with male co-workers in her office. It was fun to read.

Douglas Shaw is an ambitious businessman and social climber. He has worked hard to get the position he has. He is surprised by the many ideas Alice has about business and how it could grow at Henley and company.

I look forward to reading other books in this series that will go on to explore business situations, how people embark on embracing these machines, how business standards came about and the fact that Alice’s friends will be using advice from the Spinster book in the next story. It’s a winning combination. This is the first book I’ve read by this author it won’t be the last. This book would work well for your next book club pick as there is so much to discuss.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

Jennifer Delamere returns to London with a new series set in the late 19th century with a focus on telegraphy. Both Alice and Douglas come from humble backgrounds and aspire to succeed in life, but they have different ideas on how to accomplish it. For Alice, it means remaining single even though it appears that both friends and family are disappointed in her decision. Douglas, however, places an emphasis on making connections wherever possible even if it means marrying someone for money and not for love. Sparks fly when they meet and the rest, as it is said, is history!

Although the book is set around the sending of telegrams, the message Delamere sends is about the definition of success. Must you be wealthy to be successful in life? Can you be successful without the benefit of a formal education? Douglas was forced to leave school at the age of 12 but he’s in a higher position than Alice at their employer of Henley and Company, whereas she was able to stay in school for longer. Or has her career been hindered because she’s a woman?

It might sound strange, but my favorite aspect of Line by Line was the appearance of industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. Although I don’t know a whole lot about him – something I intend to rectify – I’ve always had an interest in him, probably because we both have connections to Scotland and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Delamere includes him in the narrative in a realistic way; he was in England in 1881 when the book is set. He’s the catalyst for Douglas’ change of attitude regarding wealth. There’s nothing wrong with wealth, per se. It’s what you do with the wealth you accumulate that matters. Douglas isn’t exactly happy with the notion of giving away one’s hard-earned money, reminding me of the New Testament story of the Jesus’ interaction with the wealthy young man.

Overall, I found Line by Line an easy-going book to digest especially in comparison with some of the novels I’ve recently completed. I read most of it while on a camping trip. The other two books in the Love Along the Wires series will most likely feature Alice’s two friends who also work in telegraphy, and I’ll look forward to reading those as well.

Disclaimer: Although I received an electronic copy of this book from the publisher and author, the words and opinions below are my own.

The year is 1881 and Alice McNeil is ready to leave her position at London’s Central Telegraph Office in search of a position with private company. With seven years’ experience and dreams of living somewhere other than a boarding house, Alice expects that her skills plus her determination will land her a job with a promising future.

Alice gains a step forward in her career when she is hired by Henley and Company, an importer of wheat and cotton. There she soon meets Douglas Shaw, Mr. Henley’s second in command who travels the world gaining the contracts for their imports. Mr. Shaw sees the benefit of having Alice, who is an excellent telegraph operator, learn more about the business overall, and Alice begins to see new possibilities for her future. The problem is, even though sparks begin to fly, Alice is prepared to be a spinster because she thinks it will allow her freedom to live as she wants, and Douglas has his sights set on a young society lady, Miss Rolland, he has yet to meet.

When Douglas and his friends find an etiquette book for ladies at a local bookstore, they read a few sections and laugh. Unbeknownst to Douglas, Alice is also in the bookstore and overhears their conversation. She isn’t out to catch a man, she just wants to read the book and laugh at its suggestions… or maybe find one or two to help her with a difficult co-worker, Archie Clapper. So she purchases The Spinster’s Guide to Love and Romance and takes it home.

A really enjoyable historical romance set in London. Alice is going to be a career woman. She has a job she loves. Douglas has risen above his impoverished childhood and is determined to secure his future. Then they work together and there is a synergy. It is not a straight road, but it is enjoyable. A compelling story that I enjoyed.

Miss Alice McNeil loves her job as a telegrapher and can’t wait to start working for a private firm. At almost 28, she has forged her own path through life and feels no need to marry a man. Alice supports herself through her skills and intelligence and sees no need to wed, unlike her siblings and friends.

Despite growing up in poverty in Scotland, Douglas Shaw has worked his way up to a respected position as the second-in-command at a trading firm. His job takes him all over the world. Returning from a business trip, he meets the new telegrapher—a woman—and finds himself intrigued. But he can’t let his feelings get in the way of brokering an advantageous marriage that will advance his status in London’s society.

As they spend time together in the office, Alice and Douglas discover more about themselves and their ambitions than they ever thought possible. What they discover may bring their dreams crashing down—but maybe God lets dreams die for a greater purpose.

Why You’ll Love this Book

Jennifer Delamere’s attention to detail of a working girl’s life in the 1880s in London brings the story to life. Delamere delves into the perceptions and decisions we hold onto that may no longer serve us as Alice visits her mentor and Douglas talks to the famous Andrew Carnegie.

If you enjoy a period love story with quirky characters (Alice teaches Douglas to dance using Morse code) and a good message that never feels preachy, this book is for you!

Thank you to Bethany House Publishers for a gifted review copy of Line By Line by Jennifer Delamere. All opinions are my own.

Line By Line is the first book in the Love Along the Wires series. The story takes place in London starting in March of 1880. Alice is a telegraph operator who likes her independence she has no plans for marriage and family. She is very excited about her new job and Henley and Company. Douglas has worked his way up to be an assistant to the owner of Henley and Company. He is very ambitious about his future.

The storytelling alternates between Alice and Douglas. They both know exactly what they want for their lives but life doesn't always follow the path we plan. What do you do when your life starts heading in a new unplanned direction?

Christian
Release Date: June 30, 2020

Line by Line
by Jennifer Delamere


Bethany House
Bethany House Publishers
Christian
Pub Date 30 Jun 2020



I am reviewing a copy of Line by Line through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:



This book takes us back to 1880’s London England where Alice McNeil a young woman who resolved to travel through life without getting married, she wanted to be free to make her own decisions. She was a seasoned telegrapher who recently required an important position in an important trading firm. When the companies ambitious junior director returns to London, things begin to change in ways Alice could never have imagined.





Years of hard work and ingenuity has allowed for Douglas Shaw to get away from a life of grinding poverty, and build a name for himself. He is determined to marry into high society so it will ensure that he never has to return to the conditions of his past.




Alice and Douglas form a friendship based on mutual respect, but nothing beyond friendship is not in their plans. But when Alice accidentally raises the ire of a jealous and vindictive coworker who's intent on ruining her life, both Alice and Douglas are forced to face what is truly important in their lives. Will their growing bond give them the courage they needed to find a better way?





I give Line by Line five out of five stars!




Happy Reading!

Set in London in 1880, Jennifer Delamare’s newest book, Line by Line, is a fascinating look at telegraphers and the role they played in the evolution of world-wide communications. I enjoy reading historical fiction, because I learn much while I’m reading an entertaining story. The main characters in this story both had experience in telegraphy, so this played a major part in the tale. Alice McNeil is independent, ambitious, and perfectly content in her spinsterhood and her job as a telegrapher. Douglas Shaw, the junior director of the company, is also ambitious and determined to overcome his childhood poverty and rise in society. The two hit it off, but their different aims in life collide a bit and cause some difficulties for them.

With an intriguing glimpse at this slice of history, a bit of intrigue and suspense, and a big dash of romance, Delamare is off to a great start with this first book in her Love Along the Lines series. There’s even some inspiration and character growth thrown in for good measure. I’m looking forward to the other books in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House and NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Line by Line written by Jennifer Delamere is a wonderful inspirational historical romance definitely worth reading if you love stories steeped in history, romance and drama. History buffs will love all of the detailed information about the telegraph.
Line by Line is the first book in Jennifer Delamere's Love Along the Wires series and I will be looking forward to reading more books in this series in the future.

I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.

This was an interesting book based on telegraphers, which in itself, has prompted me to learn more about the trade. Primarily how it lasted and how popular it was for women.

The story is about Alice, who is telegrapher and Douglas who is an up and coming business man. He has a quest to climb the social ranks, but rather trips up along the way when he meets Alice. In the meantime, Alice has bought a book on spinsters and starts following along with some of the tips on how to interact with me. Needless to say, she comes across with some interesting experiences from this book.

The story was paced about right, although I did have a little more trouble following along compared to other books by this author. However, there was enough drama and was able to end to the book on a happy note.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.

A new series by Jennifer Delamere and I am thoroughly delighted. The book offers hope, redemption, humor and inspiration. It is a clean, historical romance that drew me in from the very start. I loved the premise of Alice being a telegrapher as she is intelligent, quick, and witty. Douglas is determined and they ignite a delightful chemistry, although it does not come easily. I look forward to the continuation of this series. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own and freely given.

Line by Line, by Jennifer Delamere, is the first book in the Love along the Wires series. Offering plenty of wit and humor, this delightful historical romance is a genuine pleasure to read! Ms. Delamere is a talented writer with a real gift for storytelling! With a charming plot and thoughtful characters, this book is utterly uplifting and thoroughly entertaining.

Line by Line is a creative and engaging novel with a swiftly paced plot that includes plenty of surprises. Brimming with scenes that are rich with comedy and romance, this book also offers a meaningful story of hope, purpose, and new beginnings. Moments of loss lead to new paths of perseverance, introspection, and restoration. Faulty logic and misconceptions are defeated with faith, humility, and truth.

The appeal of this book is wholly enriched by well-developed characters that are refreshingly unique and compelling. They exhibit endearing qualities that make them unconventional yet believable. As they overcome obstacles and evaluate their motivations, the characters are relatable and inspiring. Even though they struggle through real trials that test their assumptions and their choices, the gift of God’s grace abounds, offering renewed hope and second chances.

Line by Line is truly a wonderful piece of historical fiction. Its sweet combination of comedy, romance, and faith, makes the story very readable and enjoyable. It is a satisfying novel from the first page to the last, and I am eagerly looking forward to reading the next book in this series. Line by Line is certainly creative, clever, and memorable, and I recommend it wholeheartedly.

*I was given a copy of this novel from the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

Every time I pick up a new book by Jennifer Delamere, I find that her storytelling has gotten better. Her newest book, Line by Line, is no different. The novel is the first in a new series, Love Along the Wires, about three friends in 1880s London trying to succeed in business and in love. After a slow first chapter, the story takes off, and I was carried away by a love story about two people whose worthy goals interfere with what life and love insist on presenting to them. Line by Line is a sweet, smooth, page-turning read.

As a skilled telegrapher, Alice McNeil has sworn off marriage and intends to live single all her life as did her mentor and schoolmistress, Miss Templeton. After Alice’s experience as one of 800 female workers at the London Central Telegraph Office, she is ready for a new challenge and finds it at Henley and Company. Except for her irritating telegraphy co-worker, the position is all she could hope for. With only two telegraphers for the growing shipping company, the work demands every bit of skill and experience she possesses to keep up with the necessary speed and accuracy.

Douglas Shaw, number two man at Henley and successful dealmaker, returns to London from the United States with contracts for new cotton shipments well in hand. His goal in life has been to raise himself from his impoverished youth as the son of a shipyard laborer into higher social status. So far, he has obtained an esteemed position and has set his sights on marriage to a wealthy heiress as the next step in his life plan. Alice and Douglas meet on the job and later, over the one available copy of The Spinster’s Guide to Love and Romance which Douglas thought to purchase to learn how he might woo his heiress. However, Alice makes the purchase first so she can learn how to use “feminine wiles” to smooth out her working and personal relationships with men. Both Alice and Douglas pursue their dreams, all the while meeting at work and finding common interests that draw them together. Obstacles abound, especially the conflict between their original choices of life paths and their life experiences which continue to nudge them in other directions.

The romance between Douglas and Alice takes center stage throughout the novel, and it is delightful to discover how these two strong personalities finally reach their happily ever after. The main characters also carry the inspirational theme. Douglas and Alice discover a mutual love and reliance upon God as the Father and support in all earthly affairs, but they also accept that God has given them intelligence and skills with which they can solve many of their dilemmas.

The one part of the book that felt out of place was the first chapter. It plays two roles in the story – to introduce us to the main characters and their current situations and to introduce Alice’s friends who will be part of the upcoming books in the series. However, it dragged, with a narrative full of background and inner thoughts and not enough forward momentum. If I hadn't read Ms. Delamere's work before, I might have set the book aside, but with a little faith, I gave the author and the story a chance.  Once Alice gets her job at Henley, the story sails along with smooth writing, chuckle-worthy humor, wonderful interactions, and characters who make a lasting impression. The time-period is described with well-chosen details, and who would have known that tapping out Morse code could have so many important social and business uses?! Except for the slow start, Line by Line provides all the delightful enjoyment that readers of sweet, Christian romance expect.

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***DECENT STORY*** It seemed like God and faith were late to the party, however, I do enjoy the topic of the telegraph and I will most likely read future publishings in this series.

"The telegraph service was a government entity, overseen by the postmaster general."

It may be noteworthy to some that the hero of the story is a smoker, which is only referenced a couple of times and would have been common back then. "There was a vague smoky scent coming from him, as though he'd spent his recent train ride in the smoking car."

Andrew Carnegie added a good amount of wisdom later in the story.

"Over the years, I have found that it's one thing to hear a sermon where Scripture is quoted, but it's quite another to read for yourself what is written. It can have quite an impact on people" -Mr. Johnstone

Tea Moment: "Why, that's terrible!" Emma said. She filled a teacup and set it in front of Alice. "This will help." Emma's way of dealing with trauma always involved a hot cup of tea.

I received a complimentary eBook from the NetGalley & the publisher, in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own without compensation or further expectation.

MY STARS: NetGalley (Would you recommend?): 1= No, 2=Not Really, 3=Maybe, 4= Yes, 5=Strongly - OTHER WEBSITES MAY VARY

MY REVIEWS ARE POSTED AT: MY BLOG (scheduled for 7/25) Amazon, Goodreads, CBD, Barnes and Noble , BooksAMillion, Google Play Books, Kobo

Thanks to Bethany House for the free review copy. All opinions are my own.

This historical fiction novel focuses on telegraphy, with Alice, the main character being a telegrapher in 1881. She has to manager her goal of being a spinster and a career woman during a time when this was less common. She also must deal with her new coworker, Douglas Shaw, and the friendship that blossoms there. I liked how this story focused on women in a career that I didn't know much about. I definitely learned about telegraphy while reading this book.

I also liked the different relationships between Alice and her friends in the book, overall. Emma and Rose were great friends throughout. However, I wished the relationship between Lucy and Alice had been handled differently. It felt too easy at the end, especially after some of the things Lucy said to Alice. 

Douglas also grows a lot in this book, and I liked reading about his progression. The addition of Carnegie and his advice was very interesting and I liked the direction that it took the story.

I found this book to be very interesting. I had not given much thought to telegraph lines and what they meant in history and how they changed business. The fact they used code when sending a telegram was new information to me. I like how the author formed a story with Alice and Douglas. Both characters had similar backgrounds, yet Douglas had risen and had high hopes of going further. Alice is just happy to have her job being a female Telegraph operator. And that had many challenges presented within the story. Definitely an interesting read and I look forward to more in this series. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated here are my own.

The debut of Jennifer Delamere’s new Love Among the Wires series is a fun read. There’s some great history about telegraphy, there’s humor, there’s conflict, and there’s romance.

Alice, who has determined her destination in life is a career and not marriage, is intelligent, kind, witty, and driven. Is it any wonder Douglas is drawn to her before he even lays eyes on her? As the two spend time together, they grow to admire much about the other and that blooms into more than friendship.

But the romance doesn’t dominate this story. When Alice starts employing some of the suggestions from a guide to finding a man, things go awry and she finds herself in a couple predicaments. Alice’s friends all have opinions about who the best match for her is.

I found myself laughing in places, eager to find out what happened next in others, and contented with how everything came together. Who else is hoping Rose or Emma get the spotlight in the next one?


Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Line by Line takes place in London, England in 1881 and centers around the life of career woman Alice McNeil. Alice long since dismissed the idea of marriage and family and embraced the idea of independence. She strove to make her way in the world of business as a telegrapher. At twenty-eight she believed her trek to spinsterhood was well on course, and was proud of her accomplishments, feeling as if she had been set upon this course of life at the age of twelve by her schoolmistress, Miss Templeton, also a lady of independence. Never had Alice felt like anything or anyone could derail her from the path she had chosen to travel, especially not after receiving a position at Henley and Company, a prospering shipping firm. That was before an unexpected book purchase began to have equally unexpected results! Delamere entertains her readers with humor, but also challenges them to examine their priorities. Fans of Jen Turano's and Lorna Seilstad's historical fiction are likely to be fans of Delemere's new series, Love Along the Wires.  I am grateful to have received a copy of this book from Bethany House via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.