4.5 Stars

The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple by Joanna Davidson Politano is, in a way, a love letter for lovers of story. A beautifully written love letter at that. Politano’s books include mystery, treasure, shipwrecks, movies, and a strong thread of faith.

At the beginning of this book, there are so many stories being told that the lines of truth and fiction are fuzzy. But as Peter and Lily spend time together, sharing about their lives and getting to know each other, those lines become clearer. Lily seemed flighty at first, but as we know that story is what feeds her soul through the hard times of her life, she becomes more and more likable. Peter is straightforward, wanting to do the right thing, but something about Lily draws him.

Add in the author’s beautiful prose and some history of film and England and a mostly satisfying ending, and The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple is a book you do not want to miss.

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

I truly appreciate Politano's mastery of storytelling, her skill in the artistry of using words to build ethereal mental images, and the way she uses language to create a melody. I admire the way she uses fiction to explain truth, the most important of truths. In The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple she has woven a sense of fairy tale into a work of historical fiction set in the silent film era. The story also includes a mystery involving a missing gem. While all I have said about Politano's writing is true, I must admit that I wasn't in the right headspace to truly appreciate the whimsical nature of this story at this time, although I still feel comfortable recommending this book because I can imagine myself having been enthralled with it at another time. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this novel from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own. ( )

Elusive? I’ll say. My mind has been roaming through this story trying to decipher this elusive truth of Lily Temple. Joanna Davidson Politano brilliantly gives us her thoughts in first person while the rest of the story is in third person. An amazing perspective combination that a lot of authors could not achieve.

I have to say that I love this story! The character of Lily Temple is built on the very definition of elusive for around 10 chapters while placing the reader on the edge of magical realism, wrapped in an ethereal fairytale and, then, whisked up in the throws of several mysteries. I actually gasped at a twist I didn’t see coming! Brilliant! I must also add that Peter Driscoll is an endearing hero that you just want to hug throughout the book.

Beyond the exceptional writing and skillful storylines, I can always count on Politano’s books being grounded in faith. This one explores the love of the Father…the true Gardner of our lives.

This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review. ( )

Wow, this novel is stunning! A master at storytelling, this author once again pens a novel that is lyrical in its prose and pure gold in its wonderfully rich words. I felt myself drawn into the story immediately and enthralled by the weaving of secrets among the references to classical literature and film. The depth of the development of the characters coupled with their story of redemption and integration of realistic faith creates a novel that is captivating and very difficult to put down. I loved the history and the setting that is so well described that it transported me back to 1903 England. The plot is intricately written that speaks to the true talent of this author. I loved, loved, loved this novel and highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. ( )

“I accept your challenge, my dear flower. Change your story, your clothing, your name . . . but you’re still you, and I’ll find you.” Whimsical, enchanting, romantic, mysterious, inspiring! I adored figuring out the mystery of Lily Temple. Actress, storyteller, thief? This beautiful homage to fairytales and great storytelling captivated my imagination and didn’t let go. It’s a lyrical, gorgeously written story of redemption, seeking faith, finding love, and facing the realities of life. I loved the story within the story and the way these utterly endearing characters drew me in. I found myself missing them and can’t wait to reread the story knowing the full truth.

Lily Temple’s an enigma as she weaves her spell over audiences in the silent films she stars in and the stories she tells. When she’s accused of stealing a valuable sapphire known as the Briarwood Teardrop, Peter Driscoll, the man sent to retrieve it, finds himself enchanted not only by the beautiful supposed thief, but with the stories she tells. As he involves her in his investigations, he vows to discover who she really is.

I loved the journey this story took me on and the allusions to some of my absolute favorite stories of Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan, A Tale of Two Cities, and fairytales by Hans Christian Anderson. I loved the way Lily is both Wendy and Peter Pan, the gifted storyteller who doesn’t want to grow up. I loved the lovely romance between Lily and Peter. Peter while firmly rooted in reality is besotted with Lily who’s his complete opposite. His desire to find the truth about her not only mends his broken heart, but helps her finally reconcile her past and find her connection back to the Master Gardener.

The setting is magical and I was thrilled to find that the gardens, legends, locations, and some of the people mentioned were real. The mystery definitely kept me guessing. I loved the way all the pieces came together leading to a stunning conclusion.

All the stars for this book! It’s easily one of my favorites by this author and I highly recommend it to inspirational, historical romance, fairytale, and classic literature fans. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. ( )