Title: The Gilded
Curse
Author: Marilyn Turk
Pages: 258
Year: 2016
Publisher: Heritage Beacon Fiction
My rating is 4 stars.
The setting is Jekyll Island, which is the home of the
Millionaire’s Club and various homes used for those rich enough to get away
during the winter. Now, with the start
of WWII, in order for the club to survive, the rules have changed and it is now
opened to anyone. Lexie Smithfield is
the sole remaining family member returning to the island to get the home named
Destiny ready for sale. Before the
Depression, Lexie’s family had wealth and socialized with elite families of
similar class; however, now her life is so vastly different.
When she returns to the island, Lexie is reunited with a
childhood friend who looks after her needs in many ways. Russell couldn’t serve in the armed forces due
to a hunting accident that left one foot permanently injured. It seemed to Lexie that the curse her mother
spoke about so often till her passing was becoming a reality in Lexie’s life
too. Someone is after whatever they
believe she has in her possession, but Lexie knows it isn’t wealth. So what is it?
In the novel, the family history is the main thread it
seemed to me the more I read. The author
does a great job revealing that families may have secrets, and a history that
showcases both good and bad choices with consequences. Another thread is that no matter how long one
turns their back on God or doesn’t talk to Him, He is there to welcome them
home when they return to Him.
The ending reveals what Lexie’s father treasured most, and
it is something that I believe will speak to readers’ hearts! Plus, there is the
reminder in the story of bonds forged many years ago that can be honored by the
next generation. Read the book and you’ll
see what I am referring to. Enjoy!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or
services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my
blog. Regardless, I only recommend
products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my
readers. I am disclosing this in
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Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”