Reviewed by Dee
TITLE: Heartwood
AUTHOR: Catherine Lane
PUBLISHER: Ylva Publishing
LENGTH: 332 pages
RELEASE DATE: July 20, 2016
BLURB:
All Nikka thinks about is making partner in the law firm she works for. So, when the firm sends her to the Springs, a women’s resort town and home of famous lesbian author Beth Walker, Nikka jumps at the chance to prove herself to her sexy boss, Lea.
But nothing in the Springs is as it seems. Beth is hiding secrets about her mysterious past with movie star Dawn Montgomery. Lea may only be out for her own gain and keeping Beth a prisoner in her own home. And the only person who might see the truth of the situation is adorably impulsive Maggie.
Will Nikka stay true to her life’s ambition, or will she dare look into the mystery—and into her own heart?
REVIEW:
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and wow does she have a way with words. The vivid and emotional writing style submerged me right in the middle of this drama, slash love story, slash mystery!
From very early on it becomes apparent something extremely wrong is going on behind closed doors. But what? I’m loathed to reveal too much about the plot for fear of giving anything away. I will say all is not as it seems.
Although this story is of a time gone by, the forbidden love of Beth and Dawn, and the present day blossoming attraction between Nikka and Maggie, the pace between past and present was perfectly spaced out. It allowed me time to become totally invested in all characters without getting reader whiplash, or worse lost in the timeline! My heart broke for Beth and Dawn, and I kept wondering who the mysterious tattooed girl was, Maggie stole the show for me. Gosh damn… I want a Maggie J
While sex is far from central to the plot, there’s a little spice for those who enjoy such, I’m one of those readers. I tip my hat to Ms Lane for writing one of the most sensual, sexy scenes I’ve encountered in lesbian fiction! She goes to show you can word things in such a beautiful way that a person can see and feel where fingers are going without having explicit names for the genitalia thrown in your face. Not that I mind that from time to time. But yeah, subtlety sometimes works best.
I could rave and rave about all the things I loved about this story, but rather than do so I’d encourage you to pickup a copy and decide for yourself how good it is, I highly doubt you’ll be disappointed.
I recommend Heartwood to everyone who enjoys a good mystery, well developed plot, and characters you’ll be rooting for.
RATING: 
BUY LINKS:
Thanks, Dee, for taking the time and such a great review! I kind of want a Maggie too.
A book I could not put down. A worthwhile read that deals with established cultural dictates of the 1960’s and the surprising effects resulting from current day intervention as women meet the challenge of believing in and thinking for themselves. Wonderful writing that will encourage you in personal growth opportuities or continuing the quest of reinventing yourself. A love story that you will be glad you read.
[…] Heartwood by Catherine Lane […]