Prize of My Heart by Lisa Norato

An unsolved mystery separates ex-privateersman Captain Brogan Talvis from his lost son--his only living relation, his only family. Shortly before her tragic demise, his wife abandoned their infant to strangers, refusing to reveal the child's whereabouts. Now, three years later, Brogan has discovered the boy at the home of a shipbuilder's daughter, Lorena Huntley.

Lorena guards a dark secret about her young charge. She finds herself falling for the heroic captain who has come to claim his newly built ship, unaware his motive for wooing her is to befriend the boy he plans on reclaiming as his own--until the day another's evil deceit leaves her helplessly shipbound, heading toward England.

As the perfect opportunity to reclaim his son unfolds, Brogan is haunted by thoughts of Lorena in her dire circumstance, and he is forced to make a heartrending choice between his child and the woman who has begun to capture his heart. But only his unselfish sacrifice can win him the greatest prize of all--love. 


I won this book several months ago on a blog giveaway, and was excited because I always enjoy reading new authors.

Prize of My Heart was a sweet story, with empathize-able characters who you hope will get their happy ending. Lorena was a mixture of propriety with a bit of spunk thrown in, while Brogan came across as gentlemanly with a few mildly rough edges. I found Lorena's young charge, Drew, a charming lad that you can almost picture wanting to squeeze up, with his plump cheeks and somewhat precocious personality. I also liked the way Lisa handled the faith aspects, as it seemed natural how the character's personal relationships with God were explored throughout.

While there was a nice twist toward the end of the story, I did find the pace a bit slow for my taste. Likewise, there were a few charming moments between Lorena and Brogan, but I didn't feel a lot of "chemistry" between them so to speak. The romance was more of a slow, inward, nature rather than intense sparks/passion.

However, for those who enjoy a calmer, gentler, love story, with a bit of action thrown in, Prize of My Heart may be just what you're looking for. And as I said, it had several twists and turns which made me want to read and find out what the ultimate conclusion would be. 

All in all, Lisa Norato has penned a thoughtful, delicate, novel that most are sure to enjoy.