Unrivaled, by Siri Mitchell.

Lucy Kendall always assumed she'd help her father in his candy-making business, creating recipes and aiding him in their shared passion. But after a year traveling in Europe, Lucy returns to 1910 St. Louis to find her father unwell and her mother planning to sell the struggling candy company. Determined to help, Lucy vows to create a candy that will reverse their fortunes.

St. Louis newcomer Charlie Clarke is determined to help his father dominate the nation's candy industry. Compromise is not an option when the prize is a father's approval, and falling in love with a business rival is a recipe for disaster when only one company can win. Will these two star-crossed lovers let a competition that turns less than friendly sour their dreams? (summary provided by Bethany House Publishers)

I've really enjoyed most of Siri Mitchell's previous novels, so I was looking forward to reading her latest one: Unrivaled. Not only is the cover very pretty (the girl looks like Lady Sybil!), but a plot involving candy is, of course, attractive to someone who happens to have a big sweet tooth. :)

I hate to say it, but honestly this book was a bit of a disappointment for me. It's difficult to explain why exactly. I feel like I never got really drawn in and attached to the story or the characters. Lucy and Charlie were both a bit ruthless with their tactics to succeed, but at the same time, they were wish-washy about the whole battling companies thing. One minute they're completely disgusted with each other and willing to do anything to take down the other candy company (Lucy especially), and the next minute they're wanting to kiss each other. Hm. Also, the chapters alternate between Lucy and Charlie's points of view, and it was a bit jarring. I felt that the ending wrapped up too quickly and wasn't very believable.

Also, I generally love Siri Mitchell's writing style. But quite often in Unrivaled, things were worded in unusual, awkward ways that left me puzzled or rereading sections. The main characters' conversations with Winnie Compton were completely bewildering.

I'm awfully sorry that this "review" is so vague! Something about this book just didn't click with me, and I'm having a hard time putting it into words. :) I didn't hate Unrivaled by any means. But I didn't love it...it didn't make me laugh or swoon or cry. I felt detached the entire time I was reading it.

Because I hate to leave this review on a negative note, I want to mention again that, with the exception of A Constant Heart, I have greatly enjoyed Siri Mitchell's previous historical fiction. She Walks In Beauty was definitely a favorite...I need to reread it soon!

Until next time,

 

{I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.}