Maid to Match

I have enjoyed reading all of Deeanne Gist's books, and this one was a treat! Not only are the characters wonderfully developed, the setting of The Biltmore was a fabulous twist on Gist's historical fiction. I'm especially fond of the way Gist portrays her heroines with real emotions and desires like real women, not a cleaned up, whitewashed version of a female that leave a Christian woman wondering if she's somehow sinning to have these desires. I absolutely recommend this book if you enjoy historical fiction and romance with godly influence.

Maid to Match is the first of Deeanne's books that I have read. And what a beautiful book it is! From exquisite cover through to its satisfying conclusion, this story is a delight. Set in the early days of the 20th century, in and around Asheville, N.C. and Biltmore Estate, Gist takes us back to the Gilded Age and gives us a peek at the daily life of the Vanderbilts and their household staff. The historical details are fascinating, as are the characters. Gist draws the reader into the dilemma of the main characters. We share their pain and struggles, as well as their happiness, and laugh at their antics. I loved this book and look forward to picking up Gist's other books-A Bride Most Begrudging, The Measure of a Lady, Courting Trouble, Deep in the Heart of Trouble, A Bride in the Bargain, and Beguiled. I highly recommend this most enjoyable book.

***** This lovely romance is set in Ashville, NC at the Biltmore estate at the turn of the century, and is rich with intriguing details about the estate, the servant class, the social order of the time, and so much more. The author, Deanne Gist, goes to great lengths to make the story historically accurate. Reading this novel is an adventure, exploring a portal to a world that none of us would normally know much about. Today we are in many ways class-less, but at the time this novel takes place, opportunities were carefully circumscribed by social class. The Vanderbilts (who built the Biltmore) differed from many other wealthy people in that they cared for their servants and treated them as people. Still, to be limited by one's birth was hard and this experience is explored in this novel. It is the story of Tillie, the head parlormaid at the Biltmore, a young lady who has been raised and educated to fulfill a high position in the home of the wealthiest people in the area--an amazing opportunity. When she falls in love she must choose between this dream of her entire life and the man she falls in love with. She must also discern what God's will is in her decision. Although this is technically a Christian romance, I would call it a "Christian lite" romance, as faith does not have an overt role in the story line. I would expect that this is a novel that would appeal to all fans of historical romance, no matter what their faith leanings. Highly recommended. *****

Excellent storyline, well researched and flows beautifully. A definite read in my opinion. Ms. Gist books have a slightly spicy flavor, so if you are offended by spice I don't suggest reading this one. It was expertly done and never taken too far, but she really makes you feel the chemistry between a man and a woman. It was not a book that I put down and walked away from. In fact, I stayed up late to finish it. I've stopped giving out 5 stars unless it is a terrific read because of the economy. I don't want people to waste their money. You will not waste your money or your time reading this book. I actually found it educational because she included a lot of how Biltmore was built and ran.

It was really nice to be able to read another Deeanne Gist novel, especially after having one in February, her book, Beguiled, written with another author. This one is extremely rich in detail about Biltmore House in Asheville, NC. She has done some remarkable research and it is absolutely fascinating. However, that is just one aspect of the story. I never give away any plots of the books I review, but this one is full of all the goodness of a Deeanne Gist book. Mack Danvers is a wonderful man, caring of women and children in a time when they were mostly considered property. Tillie wants to spend her life as a ladies maid, not even thinking that maybe God has another plan for her life that includes love and a family all her own. That's all I'm giving away, but this book is rich in history and God's love, guidance and direction. And also a good measure of healthy, clean romance thrown in. Don't miss it.