I loved this book. The author effortlessly blended the stories of the two time-lines. Devyn was helping Chase uncover the mystery of his great-grandfather’s connection to Hattie. Add to that the pressure of having to plan a wow-worthy event and a past that’s just waiting to bust out of the past and you have a captivating tale.
When Hattie’s secret was uncovered, I was pleased and surprised…I did not see that twist coming.
The Characters in Undercurrent of Secrets
Devyn had been seriously hurt in her previous relationship and as a result spent a lot of time hiding her true self. It was great watching her come alive with Chase as they got to know each other while searching for Hattie.
Chase was a fun character. He had an air of seriousness but the banter between him and Devyn was too cute. I liked how willing he was to stand beside her and defend her if necessary.
The romance between Devyn and Chase melded sweetly with the romance of Jack and Hattie and you couldn’t help wishing for happy endings for both couples.
I liked how prevalent the characters faith were (in both timelines).
The Themes in Undercurrent of Secrets
There were several themes in Undercurrent of Secrets one of which is that we can trust God to take care of us and see us through difficult times.
Readers will also be reminded that we don’t have to try and control everything. We should instead remember that God is in control and release everything into His hands.
Final Thoughts on Undercurrent of Secrets
There were several secrets in this novel, some of them I guessed and others that I didn’t. This book was an easy read and the distinction between the past and present time-lines made it easy to remember which time line you were in which isn’t always the case with split time novels.
I received an advanced reader’s copy from the publisher through NetGalley; a positive review was not required.
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About Undercurrent of Secrets
Two women, a century apart, are bound by a haunting secret aboard a legendary steamboat.
Walk through Doors to the Past via a new series of historical stories of romance and adventure.
As wedding coordinator for the 100-year-old steamboat The Belle of Louisville, Devyn Asbury takes pride in seeing others’ dreams come true, even though her engagement had sunk like a diamond ring to the bottom of the Ohio River. When the Belle becomes a finalist in the Timeless Wedding Venue contest, Devyn endeavors to secure the prestigious title with hopes to reclaim some of her professional dreams. What she hadn’t planned on was Chase Jones showing up with a mysterious photo from the 1920s.
A century earlier, Hattie Louis is as untamable as the rivers that raised her. As the adopted daughter of a steamboat captain, her duties range from the entertainment to cook. When strange incidents occur aboard the boat, Hattie’s determined to discover the truth. Even if that means getting under First Mate Jack Marshall’s handsome skin.
About Rachel Scott McDaniel
Rachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning author of historical romance. Winner of the ACFW Genesis Award and the RWA Touched By Love award, Rachel infuses faith and heart into each story. Rachel can be found online at www.RachelScottMcDaniel.com and on all social media platforms. Her work is represented by Julie Gwinn of the Seymour Agency. Rachel resides in Ohio with her husband and two children.