Title: The Writing Desk
Author: Rachel Hauck
First published July 1, 2017
352 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780310341598 (ISBN10: 0310341590)
Rating: 4.24
Overview
Acclaimed author Rachel Hauck weaves a mesmerizing tale of love, hope, and courage in her latest novel, The Writing Desk. Aspiring writer Tenley Roth is struggling to meet the expectations of her publisher for a second bestseller when her life takes an unexpected turn.
She heads to Florida to help her mother through chemotherapy and meets the charming Jonas Sullivan, a furniture designer who helps her find the inspiration she needs to write again. Meanwhile, a century earlier, Birdie Shehorn, the daughter of wealthy Knickerbockers, is caught in a life she didn’t choose.
She dreams of writing and making an impact but is stifled by her mother’s control. When she uncovers her mother’s secret plans for her future, Birdie must choose between a life of comfort or following her heart.
As their stories intertwine, Tenley and Birdie discover that their connection is more than just a coincidence. Follow these two women as they navigate the challenges of their respective eras, finding strength, hope, and love in unexpected places.
About the Author
Rachel Hauck, a bestselling author, resides in sunny central Florida. Her books feature compelling characters facing real-life challenges, and have earned her several accolades such as being a RITA finalist, a winner of the Romantic Times Inspirational Novel of the Year, and receiving the Career Achievement Award.
Her novel, Once Upon A Prince, has been transformed into an original Hallmark movie, and her other book, The Wedding Dress, has been optioned for film by Brain Power Studio. Rachel enjoys receiving feedback from readers and offering support to aspiring writers.
She was previously a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers Executive Board. Rachel graduated from Ohio State University with a BA in Journalism and is an enthusiastic fan of OSU football.
Her dream is to one day stand on the sidelines at the Shoe with Ryan Day. For more information, visit her website and connect with her on Twitter and Facebook by clicking on the icons.
Editoral Review
Rachel Hauck’s The Writing Desk is a beautifully written novel that masterfully blends historical and contemporary fiction elements. Hauck is known for her bestselling romances, and The Writing Desk is another impressive addition to her portfolio.
Set in the present day and during the Gilded Age, The Writing Desk follows the stories of two women, Tenley Roth and Birdie Shehorn, who are connected through a writing desk that has been passed down through generations. Aspiring novelist Tenley is struggling to overcome writer’s block when she discovers the antique writing desk that once belonged to Birdie, a women’s fiction author from the late nineteenth century.
From there, the novel takes the reader on a captivating journey through time, as we follow the parallel lives of these two women who grapple with love, passion and heartbreak. Hauck’s vividly detailed writing transports readers back in time, immersing us in a world of Victorian social etiquette, fashion and etiquette.
The author expertly captures the nuances of the Gilded Age and paints a vivid picture of the era’s societal norms and values. In the present day, Tenley’s character is equally compelling, as we watch her work through the challenges of balancing her writing aspirations with her family’s expectations.
The novel’s themes of love, forgiveness and familial bonds are delicately woven throughout the entire story, leaving an emotional impact on the reader. While romance is an essential element of the novel, redemption and having the ability to forgive oneself is a more significant theme that stood out in the novel.
The characterization throughout the novel is impressive, with each character being unique and interesting. Tenley and Birdie’s stories are expertly interwoven in a compelling storyline that keeps the reader engaged throughout the novel.
While Hauck excels at character development and historical detail, the plot at certain points feels predictable, and the novel’s pacing can be uneven. Additionally, the novel’s conclusion relies too heavily on the resolution of the romantic subplots, overlooking the significance of the broader themes of redemption and self-discovery.
Overall, The Writing Desk is an engrossing and beautifully crafted novel that successfully blends genres and themes. For lovers of historical fiction, the novel offers a masterful recreation of the Gilded Age, while for contemporary fiction enthusiasts, the novel’s modern-day story stands on its own.
It is highly recommended to readers of all ages who want a thought-provoking and inspiring read. Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
