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Set in 1897, two masters of Inspirational and American history, Tracie Peterson and Judith Miller, enter the world of elegance, opulence, and bitter family rivalries in Book number one of the Broadmoor Legacy. The story centers around three cousins, Amanda, Sophie, and Fanny Broadmoor who are as close as sisters until their grandfather dies, and the terms of his will causes repercussions and bitter rivalry within the family which could sever their precious bond. The story while centering around the youngest cousin Fanny gives good insight and background to several other members of the family (not all of them likeable). Fanny who was closest to her grandparents, after being orphaned at the age of ten, was also the most down to earth in spite of living an indulgent life with her grandparents. Spending much of her time on the island at Broadmoor Castle (situated in the Thousand Islands on the St. Lawrence River of upper New York) Fanny was more at home out of doors fishing with her best friend and secret love Michael Atwell, than in the ballrooms mingling with society’s rich and famous of that era. *** The authors, after a short prologue showing Fanny to be the most optimistic and naïve of the three cousins; having returned home from school to find her beloved grandfather dying. After his passing the bulk of the estate was divided in thirds. One third each to his two surviving sons; Fanny’s Uncles Jonas and Quincy, and one third going to Fanny, only child of the third son, her father, the deceased Langley Broadmoor. As clearly detailed by the authors, Fanny’s inheritance did not sit well with her avariciously and power hungry Uncle Jonas who was unfortunately, as the eldest son, appointed as her guardian. The naivety and trust Fanny holds is clearly defined as her uncle Jonas begins his manipulations to gain absolute control of Fanny’s inheritance. Fanny was pretty much clueless as to the extremes her uncle would go to achieve his own selfish ends, especially in so far as trying to sink Fanny’s relationship and future dreams of a life with her best friend and love, Michael Atwell, who was employed as the family’s boat keeper. The question arose, would Fanny follow her heart or bow to society dictates while being manipulated by her uncle? In keeping the adventure high, and knowing he needs money to gain permission to even ask for Fanny’s hand in marriage Michael accepts a deal and the funds Uncle Jonas loans him as the grub stake money he needed to go off and search for gold in the Yukon. Uncle Jonas is hoping that with Michael gone, he could easily maneuver Fanny’s affections in the right direction; towards a man that Jonas can manipulate while still controlling Fanny’s wealth. As the authors fleshed out the three cousins, the reader sees the three diverse personalities emerge and their bond and apparent love for one another. But now, no longer carefree children, would life’s realities interfere with that love, or would family loyalties and jealousy break their bond of friendship? Book one of the Broadmoor Legacy is a terrific Americana historical set in the 1890’s era of the rich and famous. The three Broadmoor cousins’ personalities are diverse enough to offer highly anticipated story lines as we anxiously await Fanny and Michael’s uncertain future. Although very historical in nature the underlying inspirational theme is beautifully portrayed but in a completely un-preachy way. It’s always a treat to read Tracie Peterson and/or Judith Miller, but with this collaboration the reader gets a treat with double the pleasure. Reviewed by Marilyn Rondeau, for CK2S Kwips and Kritiques
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THE BROADMOOR LEGACY BOOK 1:
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