It Happened at the Fair by Deeanne Gist

My Thoughts:

It Happened at the Fair, by Deeanne Gist, is a historical romance that takes place during the 1893 World's Fair.  Cullen McNamara is there to showcase his sprinkler system and Della Wentworth is a teacher of the deaf.  Fate brings them together when Cullen rescues Della as she's caught in the middle of a mob of people overly excited to see President Cleveland.  

History lovers will delight in this Christian romance that introduces the reader to famous people such as Grover Cleveland and Helen Keller.  Such an interesting twist combining factual and fictional characters!  It's clear that Deeanne Gist has thoroughly done her historical research- impressive!  I found the pictures of the Chicago World's Fair showcased at the beginning of each chapter to be an interesting touch.  Unfortunately, for much of the book, the main characters were a bit shallow and boring, in my opinion.  I found it difficult to connect with them and longed for more excitement than they could deliver.  My interest waned early on and it was hard for me to stay focused on the story.  It Happened at the Fair does have it's shining moments, though.  For example, the evening when Della thinks Cullen is lying about being a farmer and makes him "prove" it to her by taking off his shirt- gasp!  If history with a bit of romance is your cup of tea, this book should be on your wish list!

Back Cover:

A transporting historical novel about a promising young inventor, his struggle with loss, and the attractive teacher who changes his life, all set against the razzle-dazzle of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair.

Gambling everything, including the family farm, Cullen McNamara travels to the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with his most recent invention. But the noise in the Fair's Machinery Palace makes it impossible to communicate with potential buyers. In an act of desperation, he hires Della Wentworth, a teacher of the deaf, to tutor him in the art of lip-reading.

The young teacher is reluctant to participate, and Cullen has trouble keeping his mind on his lessons while intently watching her lips. Like the newly invented Ferris Wheel, he is caught in a whirl between his girl back home, his dreams as an inventor, and his unexpected attraction to his new tutor. Can he keep his feet on the ground, or will he be carried away?  

About the Author:

Deeanne Gist, known to her family, friends, and fans as Dee, has rocketed up the bestseller lists and captured readers everywhere with her very original, very fun historical & contemporary romances. Add to this three RITA nominations, two consecutive Christy Awards, rave reviews, and a growing loyal fan base, and you've got one recipe for success.

To learn more visit  http://Iwantherbooks.com  

Deeanne Gist is celebrating the release of It Happened at the Fair with an iPad Mini Giveaway and a Live Author Chat Webcast event {5/22}!

 
One "fair" winner will receive:

• An iPad Mini


• A $25 iTunes gift card
  

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 21st. Winner will be announced at the "It Happened at the Fair" Live Webcast Event on May 22nd. Connect with Deeanne for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Deeanne will also be taking questions from the audience and giving away books and fun gift certificates throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of It Happened at the Fair and join Deeanne and friends on the evening of May 22nd for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 22nd!




*I was given a copy of this book from Litfuse Publications in exchange for my honest opinion.  No other compensation was received.*