NO STONE UNTURNED by JENELLE HOVDE is a most enjoyable Regency novel which takes place in the small village of Bramnor in Sussex in 1811. The characters are interesting, and the story is full of twists and turns as Bridget Littleton, the pastor’s daughter who has a passion for antiquities, starts digging with her best friend Abigail Perry in Mr Perry’s field where the farmer has unearthed part of an ancient mosaic. This find could make Bridget famous and save Mr Perry’s farm.
There is a dispute about the boundary line. The new viscount of Hawthorn Abbey, Captain Rafe Hawthorn, has been led to believe that the dig is encroaching on his land. He is desperate to make a success of the property he inherited from his estranged uncle before losing it, and Bridget is desperate to win a prize for her discovery in order to try and find her brother who is missing after being seconded into the navy……
After a poor start, Bridget and Rafe start working together to overcome one disaster after another…….
There is superstition, competition, betrayal and theft, as well as ugly rumours about the Hawthorn family, and criticism of Bridget’s unladylike behaviour.
The Christian message is strong and I like the way the author uses Scripture references, particularly out of Ecclestiastes, to show that man can do nothing of any worth without the Lord. We see how even the worst sinners can change when they turn to God. We also see how, even in pagan Roman ruins, there is some indication that a Christian was there.
I cannot recommend this exciting and inspirational read strongly enough.
I was given an ARC of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own,

I love Regency England, so No Stone Unturned my mild Jane-Austen-hankering for the week! It was such a fun little read, with ancient Rome and archeology mixed in. I liked the development in the characters a lot.

Rafe and Bridget were both fun to follow, and there were a couple lines that had me wheeze-laughing. (Not my favourite laugh, but a real one.) This book felt lighthearted enough to be easy to read, but also had emotional depth of character that I appreciated.

The plot twists in this book were on point and I loved the family development too. Overall, four stars!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

An intense historical novel that brings to life many life issues. The characters are real and deep,showing great leadership. A huge reminder of God's grace and forgiveness.