Where the Last Rose Blooms by Ashley Clark is the final book in the Heirloom Secrets Series. The concept behind the series is quite enjoyable, but the transitions between time periods are a bit frustrating.  Just when things are starting to become interesting in one character’s life, the author jumps to the other story.  Having read many books of this type, I can say that this book followed the same basic formula, but it was very tempting to just read one person’s story and then go back and read the other. 

Looking past that experience, it must be said that both the contemporary and the historical characters have compelling and interesting lives.  The author does a nice job of developing relationships between the readers and the protagonists of the story. Emotions are free-flowing and intense in places.  It may be hard to set the book aside without finding out what happens next. Some of the events are likely to remain in the reader’s mind long after the last page is turned.

Now that Clark has concluded her Heirloom Secrets Series, it will be interesting to see what she comes up with for her next book. Clearly, she has the ability to connect with her readers and keep them interested in her stories.  This book is worth the read.

Review of an Advanced Reading Copy provided by the Publisher

Content Analysis:

Language/Profanity:  None

Violence/Gore:  Reports of slaves who were physically mistreated, no detailed descriptions.

Sex/Nudity:  Non-married characters kiss and embrace.

Mature Subjects:  

Slavery, mental illness, familial estrangement

Drug/Alcohol Use: 

None mentioned