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Once upon a time, I read a book by Jocelyn Green. I’d expected it to be atmospheric and romantic and intriguing—a bit like a Laura Frantz novel—but to me, it didn’t hit the mark. So every time since then, when Greene releases a new book, I shy away, even though I’ve never heard a negative thing about her work.
Well, folks, I succumbed to the peer pressure this time and I gave her a second chance. And boy, am I glad I did!
The Metropolitan Affair was so much better than I anticipated. The premise was fascinating and the plot flowed so well (although I personally think the ending was rushed). I was kept on my toes the whole time and my curiosity was thoroughly piqued. The research was impeccable, and the niche history was so intriguing. I felt like I’d been transported into the world of my childhood, where I read Tut’s Mummy: Lost...and Found by Judy Donnelly on my laundry room floor and watched Night at the Museum twenty times in a row. Even though I’m not quite so captivated by Egyptology, I was entirely captivated by this novel, and it wasn’t just the insane plot twists that held my attention.
The real shocker, though?
I actually liked Lauren.
*collective gasp rings out*
Lauren managed to be an intelligent woman in a “male-dominated profession” without being the stereotypical heavy-handed, entitled, annoying “strong female lead.” In fact, she was soft and compassionate and gentle and kind—all those biblical characteristics that matter more than one’s degree or position. Not to mention, her emotional journey and depth wasn’t sacrificed in favor of making her a bad-butt. Rather, I felt connected to her and her thoughts, and whatever she felt (particularly in correlation with her father), I felt as well. I was rooting for her the whole way.
As for Joe, of course I appreciated him. He was a doll. Strong and levelheaded while also being caring and self-sacrificing. But the best part? He was an Italian cop in New York. *chef’s kiss* I am a huge sucker for Italians.
Their romance was a sweet and subtle second chance romance that I actually enjoyed. (Yes, I’ve been known to imbibe in second chances every now and then. Kell, you oughta be proud. 😉) It wove into the plot perfectly, along with the characters’ growth and development. Both were a tasteful compliment to the plot, giving it a character-driven quality while retaining that sense of mystery and action.
Speaking of subtlety...the faith message in this story was very light but still so impactful. I was a bit unsure at first with how subtle it was, but when the theme was wrapped up in the end, it really hit home! Subtlety isn’t always the best route, but when you do it, this is how you do it.
Once upon a time, I picked up my second book by Jocelyn Green, and I felt in love. I eagerly await my next read by her!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
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about the author
Jocelyn Green inspires faith and courage as the award-winning and bestselling author of numerous fiction and nonfiction books, including The Mark of the King; Wedded to War; and The 5 Love Languages Military Edition, which she coauthored with bestselling author Dr. Gary Chapman. Her books have garnered starred reviews from Booklist and Publishers Weekly, and have been honored with the Christy Award, the gold medal from the Military Writers Society of America, and the Golden Scroll Award from the Advanced Writers & Speakers Association. She graduated from Taylor University in Upland, Indiana, with a B.A. in English, concentration in writing. She loves Mexican food, Broadway musicals, strawberry rhubarb pie, the color red, and reading with a cup of tea. Jocelyn lives with her husband Rob and two children in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Visit her at www.jocelyngreen.com.
Have you ever given an author a second chance? Did they surprise you? Have you read anything by Jocelyn Green? Did you enjoy it? I'd love to know down in the comments!
yours in spirit & script,
grace
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(Pst! My Amazon links to The Metropolitan Affair are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through that link, I'll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you!)