Title: A Lasting Impression
Author: Tamera Alexander
First published October 15, 2011
432 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780764206221 (ISBN10: 0764206222)
Rating: 4.24
Overview
A Lasting Impression follows the story of Claire Laurent, a talented artist who seeks to create something that will outlive her. However, when her father’s fraudulent dealings catch up with her, she’s forced to flee New Orleans and start anew in Nashville.
Along the way, she meets Sutton Monroe, who she believes to be her savior. But when their paths cross again, Claire realizes that Sutton isn’t the man she thought he was.
Despite the challenges she faces, Claire is determined to make a name for herself in Nashville’s high society and leave her mark on the world of art. Meanwhile, Sutton is on a mission to seek revenge for his father’s murder, but the truth he uncovers may cost him everything he holds dear.
Set against the backdrop of Nashville’s iconic Belmont Mansion, A Lasting Impression is a captivating love story that showcases Tamera Alexander’s remarkable ability to create unforgettable characters and weave together a tale that will stay with readers long after the final page.
About the Author
Tamera Alexander has made a name for herself as a talented author, earning a spot on the USA Today bestseller list and becoming a beloved figure in the inspirational historical fiction world. Along with her husband, she resides in Nashville, Tennessee, where she draws inspiration from the stunning Southern mansions that feature prominently in six of her acclaimed novels.
Editoral Review
In her book A Lasting Impression, Tamera Alexander creates an intriguing historical fiction story set in the late 19th century. Alexander is an American novelist who has won numerous awards for her books, and A Lasting Impression is no exception.
The story takes place in Nashville, Tennessee, at a time when the city was undergoing significant changes as a result of the Civil War. The story centers around Claire Laurent, a talented artist who creates lifelike paintings on porcelain.
However, Claire has a secret past that she has kept hidden from everyone, including her employer, Mrs. Adelicia Cheatham.
The author uses the setting of the story to explore themes of conflicts between social classes, gender roles, and race relations. The book’s historical significance lies in its depiction of the Reconstruction era in the South, providing readers with a glimpse into the social and cultural norms of the time.
The story’s pacing is slow but steady, allowing readers to become familiar with the main characters while gradually revealing their secrets and motivations. Alexander does an excellent job of character development, creating multidimensional characters who interact convincingly with one another.
One of the book’s strengths is throughout the novel, the author creates a sense of tension by using foreshadowing, and the descriptions of Nashville and the mansion where Claire works adds to the book’s vivid imagery. Alexander also incorporates the art of porcelain painting into the story, making it an essential element of the plot.
The novel is not without flaws, however. Some readers may find it predictable, as the story follows a typical romance novel arc.
Additionally, some characters’ motivations may seem unclear or underdeveloped, leaving readers without a clear understanding of why certain events occur. Overall, A Lasting Impression is an enjoyable read for fans of historical fiction and romance.
While it may not break new ground within its genre, the combination of vividly descriptive language, well-crafted characters, and attention to historical detail make it a worthwhile read. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction with a touch of romance, as well as those interested in exploring the social and cultural norms of the Reconstruction era.
I give A Lasting Impression a solid four out of five stars.
