Disclosure: I am a Bethany House blogger and received this book from the publisher.  Post contains affiliate links; opinions shared are mine.

Sometimes the truth can threaten to topple us!  In the novel An Elegant Facade, Georgina lived that threat every day.

In this photo, the book is sitting inside my china cabinet.  Upon first glance, it looks rather dainty and feminine.  Look closer, though. See how the bowls in the back are precariously balanced?  Just one quick move and they could all fall down.  Similarly, Georgina’s world was balanced on the hope of a marriage proposal in An Elegant Facade.

This is book 2 in the Hawthorne House series.  I didn’t read book 1, and I don’t think it’s necessary to do so.  Author Kristi Ann Hunter provided plenty of background in this book to make it clear what I missed. Georgina reminded me of Emma from Jane Austen’s famous novel. An indulged child and baby sister, her flightiness and immaturity got the best of her most of the time. It was difficult to like her at first, but I’m glad I stuck with it. The book improved as the plot thickened, and the resolution was beautifully done.

Although I didn’t think I needed to read book 1, I might go back and see what was explained about Miranda.  Her character was very well done, and gave the story the weightiness it needed to hold onto Georgina’s floaty white dresses. I’m also hoping to hear more about the eldest brother, who seems to be rather an enigma in this family!