| DIANE WYLIE
LILA'S VOW
Five Lips and Reviewers Choice Award from Two Lips Reviews ~ Reviewed by Sal
"...Lila's Vowis a fantastic ride through history and a love that would not surrender to the devastations of the most terrible war America has ever known. Ms. Wylie captured the Civil War in vivid detail and I believe I learned some things I did not know before I read this book. Ms. Wylie created a story of great joy and absolute sorrow. I could not put this book down. At times the sorrowful events ripped at my heart and, at others, it soared with the ability of the characters to overcome impossible circumstances. The characters were flawed and beautiful in their strength of purpose and pure grit. Ms. Wylie made me believe in them as if they were breathing people with all the defects and wonderful spirit of humanity. Lila's Vow is an unforgettable story. I look forward to reading about Jack’s friend, David, in her upcoming book, Jenny’s Passion. Bravo Ms. Wylie, Lila's Vow is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time."
Five Roses from Romance Writers Unlimited ~Reviewed by Rie McGaha
Lila’s Vow is an extremely well written novel, but beyond being well written, it is also a story that touches the heart and soul. Ms. Wylie does a wonderful job of weaving the characters’ stories and lives together. I also loved the fact that she brought the love between Jenny and David into this story, which flowed seamlessly from Jenny’s Passion to Lila’s Vow and gave the feeling that this really wasn’t two separate novels, but one incredible account of the lives of real people. The author didn’t leave out Lila’s mother either, and I loved it that she brought romance and marriage to a woman of an age I can really relate to!
Coffee Time Reviewers Recommend Award ~ Reviewed by Cherokee
"This award recognizes outstanding writing styles in all book types and genres. Your book has received this award because I feel it is above and beyond a 5 Cup Rating."
"An absolute wonderful book, completely awesome!!!"
"Diane Wylie describes an outstanding tale that has the reader feeling compassion for the characters. With the sudden destruction of lives and homes, along with the smell of blood in the air during the devastating war, she depicts an era that breathes life in the pages. One can feel the trepidation and sorrow, even when the soldiers storm into the people’s homes. Lila’s Vow is a story that moved me with its emotions and in-depth sensations. When I read about Jack and the Andersonville Prison, it reminded me of the time I visited and practically could feel those who had been slain there. This is one extraordinary story that comes highly recommended and should not be missed."
Five Books by Long and Short Reviews ~Reviewed by Water Lily
Voted Best Book of the Week
"Diane Wylie has a gift for taking the harsh realities of life in the Civil War and interweaving her characters into the fabric. The battle of Gettysburg, the horrors of Andersonville, the confederate submarine Hunley all become characters under Wylie’s hands. Lila and Jack’s story is compelling, but for me, as wonderful as the love story is, it almost becomes secondary to the history. The Jack’s capture and incarceration in Andersonville and Lila’s stint with the Pinkerton agency show Wylie’s grasp of the many levels of life and experience in this tumultuous time in our country. I particularly enjoyed this story’s exciting and unexpected climax."
Five Clovers by Ck2s Kwips and Kritiques
"Ms. Wylie writes a powerhouse of a novel that describes a love like no other and the brave men and women who gave their all for a happy ending. Excellent reading and highly recommended."
JENNY'S PASSION
Five Roses from Romance Writers United ~Reviewed by: Rie McGaha
"First, let me preface this review by saying that I am a huge American history buff, especially the 1880's that encompassed so much change in this country. I have had an ancestor, or relative, who fought in every American war from the Revolutionary War to the current situation in the Middle East. So when I read a period piece such as this one, I look for the mistakes, the literary license, and lack of research in manuscripts many authors attempt to pass off as "historical" pieces. So imagine my absolute delight when I read Jenny's Passion and found nothing I could pounce upon!
This is a wonderfully written, exquisite story of love during turmoil, and of following one's own heart in spite of opposition. I loved this book and couldn't put it down once I started reading it. I found myself wanting to be Jenny's friend, all the while swooning over David, as well as Jack, David's friend and fellow soldier, whom David believes was killed in battle. I can't wait to read Ms. Wylie's sequel, which tells the tale of Jack and his wife, Lila, in Lila's Vow."
Four and a half Shamrocks by CK2S Kwips and Kritiques ~Reviewed by Marilyn Rondeau – Reviewers International Organization (RIO)
In a tone reminiscent of Gone With the Wind, this debut author chronicles a deeply moving romantic adventure, that will make you both laugh and cry. The author writes with a very distinct voice in a compelling story that has been thoroughly researched and brought to life with vivid imagery and mature characterizations.
Though the story has been told many times of the brutality of Americans fighting one another it still has the power to pull you in when told with a new voice, perspective, and the thorough enjoyment of placing a beautiful romance as the focus to counteract the brutality of war. The writing is fresh, spontaneous, yet controlled and focused. Ms. Wylie has written a superb debut book showcasing a budding talent that I will be watching for in years to come. I was thoroughly entertained and totally enjoyed this fabulous novel that I recommend for lovers of American Civil War romantic adventures.
Five Angels and Recommended Read from Fallen Angel Reviews ~Reviewed by Naomi
"Diane M Wylie has created characters that are so lifelike that the reader is dragged into all of the agonies and joys as they occur. The author has done considerable research into this time period, and this enthralling story unravels as if the reader were reliving events. My Enemy, My Love [Jenny's Passion] is much more than an impressive debut. It is a heart-warming romance that will have readers sighing as they relive “first-kiss” moments, then despairing over the fate of the many fine young men who rode off to battle. If you enjoy historical romance, I strongly urge you to read this story. For this reader, it is a keeper with a + + +!"
Also from Fallen Angels Reviews ~Reviewed by Ruby
"This [book] is so good it would be a wonderful movie. I thoroughly enjoyed the romance between David and Jenny. The scenes are well written taking you into where you can just about see the lands and the characters. There are many emotions running rapid in this book, between friends, lovers, family and the love of lands the characters call home. This was a page-turner and highly recommended."
Five Hearts from Love Romances ~Reviewed by Gina
"Diane Wylie’s premier book, My Enemy, My Love [Jenny's Passion], is the kind of love story the reader will want to sit and savor. From the brutality of the Civil War, to the tender love between Jenny and David, the reader is swept up and transported back to another time and place."
Four and a half Ribbons from Romance Junkies ~Reviewed by Sherri Myers
"Diane Wylie's debut novel is sure to take you on an emotional roller coaster ride, from the hauntingly realistic battle scenes to the tender love scenes between Jenny and David. If you enjoy Civil War era historical romances, this is one book that shouldn't be passed over... Diane Wylie is one of those up-and-coming authors we should keep our eye on."
Four and a half Rating from Historical Romance Club ~Reviewed by Sandra Marlow
"Ms. Wylie gives historical romance a breath of fresh air in giving us a hero and heroine who meet early in the story to let you share in their life together much longer than the usual last few pages of a book. You invest so much in these characters early on. You care about every obstacle they encounter and how they get through each one and you cheer at each triumph. A beautiful love story to be slowly savored."
Four Cups from Coffee Time Romance ~ Reviewed by Sheryl
"My Enemy, My Love [Jenny's Passion] is an emotionally moving story of betrayal, hope and love. Jenny has never known a love like the one she has with David and in the turbulent times of war, together they will risk everything to make it work. I thoroughly enjoyed this story as it relates of how far they would go to stay together and keep their sanity, from freeing Jenny’s father from incarceration to rescuing David and others from an enemy prison camp. This is definitely a wonderful story of hope."
Four Hearts from The Romance Studio ~Reviewer: Patrice
"The love between David and Jenny grows deep and true as they fight to overcome the many challenges and hardships of their times. Endearing family relationships keep you turning the pages to see what will happen next. There is just enough suspense to keep you involved and the story flows along quickly to its conclusion. Diane Wylie is a new voice in historical romance who will please many fans with her fresh perspective of an old story."
SECRETS AND SACRIFICES
Four and a half Stars from Romantic Times Book Club~ Donna M. Brown
This heartfelt drama delivers tension, passion, hope and fear. The heroine begins in the guise of a boy but grows into a passionate, caring woman who meets her soul mate after losing her husband. The research is meticulous, and a grand cast of characters leaps off the page. This is one for the keeper shelf.
5 Shamrocks from CK2S Kwips and Kritiques
Since her stunning award winning debut novel MY ENEMY, MY LOVE [reprinted as JENNY'S PASSION], this author has impressed me with her richly detailed emotional storytelling talent. She has taken the Civil War, thoroughly researched her facts of battles, conditions and written powerfully complex characters interacting in a powerful tableau to engage the readers emotions. With Charlie you are introduced to a marvelous unforgettable heroine, where the author has the reader feeling her abject grief as she holds the lifeless body of her beloved husband, then details her struggle back to living and finding love once more with the wonderfully honorable and stalwart Dr. Reid and the sacrifices they would make to be together. Woven throughout Wylie describes it all including the blood, the gore, and the shameful inhuman treatment that was faced by all in one of the costliest wars of human suffering and death of one of the most horrific times in the history of America.
This is a stunning and powerful read that I most highly recommend from an author who displays a rare talent and leaves you wanting more.
Five Angels from Fallen Angel Reviews ~Reviewed by Naomi
Diane M. Wylie’s debut novel, My Enemy, My Love [reprinted as JENNY'S PASSION] was a runaway success. Once again, this author’s solid research and talent for creating a believable, heart-warming romantic tale will transport her many fans back to the foundation of America’s unique spirit in Secrets and Sacrifices. In the name of love, a young woman fought for her country, but the pain and passion of Charlie’s journey will change many lives.
Five Hearts from The Romance Studio. ~ Reviewed by Anita
Readers will be fascinated by the strength that is demonstrated by the character of Charlie. Charlie fights to do the right thing and protect love ones. When Joshua dies the sadness threatens to overwhelm Charlie. When Charlie finds a reason to go on readers will cheer the effort it takes. Each emotion demonstrated is effective and conveyed strongly to the readers
Secrets and Sacrifices by Diane Wylie is a creative and wonderfully accurate depiction of the Civil War. Readers will find themselves drawn into the story from the very beginning. This is a story readers will remember and return to read again. I highly recommend it to the readers that enjoy historical romance
Five Roses from MyBookCravings.com ~Reviewed by Sherry
Ms. Wylie has written a wonderful story filled with emotion. As you read this book you will feel like you are reliving life in the south during the Civil War. The emotions that both the Confederates and the Yankees must have felt during the war are described in perfect detail. As you read about the pain and suffering endured you will discover that many secrets and sacrifices were made on both sides. This book will show you that even though the pain and heartache seems more then anyone should have to endure, love can help you to overcome tragedy and become whole again. This book is a keeper.
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