Chiara's Choice Book Review and Author Interview

ABOUT THE BOOK

Chiara Madero, daughter of an Italian baron, is the epitome of beauty and fire, and when confronted, her lovely lips reveal a sharp tongue. But her enchanting facade hides a less-than-elegant truth: her family believes her true value lies in her ability to secure an advantageous match. And there is no better place to find a wealthy, titled husband than the London Marriage Mart.

Mr. Abraham Jamison is not a firstborn son and has procrastinated choosing an occupation. Nevertheless, his honest and forthright nature immediately captures Chiara’s attention. He is unsuitable for a woman of her station in all ways, but she can’t seem to resist seeking out his company. Abraham sees through her fiery personality and refuses to play her games, yet after waging a mutual battle of wits, an unexpected friendship forms between them—a rapport that soon blossoms into something more.

Abraham’s wish is to become a man worthy of her. But when faced with her family’s determination to manipulate circumstances to their advantage, he and Chiara must face their feelings and find the strength to defy an insurmountable obstacle: Chiara’s mother.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Chalon Linton is an air force spouse, a mother of four, and a fan of all things romance. Jane Austen has long been a favorite because who can resist handsome men in tailcoats? Manners, wit, and true love, combined with a faith in God, guide her stories to a happily ever after. She has met friends from around the globe and is grateful for each experience that adds to her own faith in the goodness of people. Chalon currently lives with her handsome husband in Southern California.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - What do you think readers will enjoy most about this book? 

Chalon Linton - I think we read a lot about strong female characters in literature. Elizabeth Bennet set the bar high. Often these women are independent thinkers, and to some extent they also conform to the rules of society, partially because they have to, and partially because that is what is expected of an English debutante. I love Chiara because she is strong, but she is also flawed. She knowingly breaks expectations and fights to be seen. She is determined, and feisty, where Abraham is demure and practical. We don't always like Chiara's reactions or her antics, but as the book progresses, we see a softer side to her. We learn her background and motivations. I hope the reader will enjoy reading about imperfection and someone trying their best to navigate the trails thrown in their path.

Life Is What It's Called - Which character in this book is most like you? 

Chalon Linton - I probably relate most to Abraham. I don't like to stir contention, but I won't let myself be trampled on. And sometimes I feel directionless or lost, is that just me? Ha Ha. I don't like letting people down, but expectations can be big and overwhelming. I also have great support from my family and when I love, I love BIG.

Life Is What It's Called - What themes run through this book? 

Chalon Linton - I'd say one of the big themes is that we all have the opportunity to change. Whether it's our circumstances, or our attitudes. We can apologize or ask for an apology. We can take the next step in achieving our dreams. And---we can reach out to others and ask for help, friendship, and support in our efforts.

Life is What It's Called - Will there be any more book spin-offs? 

Chalon Linton - Two brothers remain unmarried, and Geoffrey and Peter deserve their happily ever after. I'm working on their stories right now and this next book has been so fun to write. I am involved in a joint anthology, and my novella is about Lord Landon's pursuit of love. Can't wait to share that one for Christmas 2024.

Life Is What It's Called - What was your favorite scene to write? 

Chalon Linton - I loved writing the chapters where the characters visit Whixley Castle. It represents a big shift for both Abraham and Chiara to be vulnerable and open. They find similarities and their relationship deepens from this point. I also loved writing the scene of the first ball, where their tempers collide. Showing both of their reactions and emotions on such an elevated level was a fun foray.

Life Is What It's Called - What scene was the most difficult to write and why? 

Chalon Linton - The most difficult scene, hmm, maybe it's good that nothing immediately comes to mind. I had to do a lot of research for the final chapters, and I don't want to give too much away, but let's just say it's an HEA, but the ending is not typical for a Regency-era novel. One scene that was difficult to write occurs after Chaira has left the Jamison estate in tears. Abraham knows he is to blame and needs to apologize. I wanted to make sure that scene was done well, and the correct emotion was conveyed because the border between friendship and romance can be hard to navigate. It was important for me to show both characters' hesitations, while also having them both acknowledge that this was a BIG deal. It takes lots of editing and re-reading to make sure those tough scenes convey what I want them too. I hope I got it right.

Life Is What It's Called - How is this book similar and different to your other books? 

Chalon Linton - This book is considered a companion novel and has characters from both Forever, Phoebe and Escape to Everly Manor. I think it's always fun to see familiar names and personalities in novels. Chiara is the daughter of an Italian Baron, giving a bit of a different twist on London society and we get to meet her brother, Mattias, and see how the cultural changes affect him. I also think a difference between this book and the other two companion novels is that Chiara's Choice is more character driven. We read of Abraham's dilemma about a lack of career and Chiara's maneuvering through her new situation. They act and things happen, rather than a plot driven novel where something happens, causing them to act or react.

Life Is What It's Called - What writing projects are you working on next? 

Chalon Linton - I love writing historical fiction, but also have a passion for Contemporary Christian Fiction. I will soon be working through edits for book three of my Air Force Romance series which will release in summer of 2024. As I mentioned above, I am currently writing Peter Jamison's story which will wrap things up for Geoffrey Jamison, as well. I have a few YA's that I'd love to revisit and then it depends on where the writing bug takes me. I have a growing folder of ideas, so I hope to follow the inspiration.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you want readers to know about you as an author? 

Chalon Linton - I'm not one that gets too personal, but I'll say I love a good hike (bonus if it leads to a waterfall), a warm chocolate chip cookie (I make good cookies), a crackling fire, a fun k-drama binge, and a gripping novel. I do hope readers enjoy my stories and my characters, but I write because it brings me joy. I think it is important that everyone make time for those things in their lives that uplift them. For me, I am uplifted by my Savior, Jesus Christ, my family, nature, and writing and reading. Thanks so much for reading my stories and welcoming me in this space.

REVIEW

In Chiara's Choice, Chiara is visiting England with her mother and her brother. Her mother and father want her to marry a titled English man to help further their own interest. Upon meeting Abraham Jamison, Chiara founds herself interested in his honesty and lacking willingness to play her games. The two battle it out until they figure out each other's feelings...

The characters in this book are really interesting. I love the combativeness and the awkward situations that they place themselves in. The dynamic between the two is really interesting and I loved the dialogue. Linton had awkward situations grow even more awkward and combative. I felt like this was one of Chalon's strongest novels yet. The edgy dialogue softened as the characters grew to know each other and I was a little disappointed since I really enjoyed the witty sparring. This story is more character-driven than action-driven, and I felt like it really played well with Linton's writing style. Overall, this is a fun, clean romance that romance readers will want to add to their TBR piles. To find out more, click here.

Please note that I received a free book to review, however, this is my honest opinion. This post contains affiliate links that help support this blog. This post is in cooperation with the author.