Historical Fiction Review: The Dress Shop on King Street (Heirloom Secrets Book #1) by Ashley Clark

Book Description:
Harper Dupree has pinned all her hopes on a future in fashion design. But when it comes crashing down around her, she returns home to Fairhope, Alabama, and to Millie, the woman who first taught her how to sew. As Harper rethinks her own future, long-hidden secrets about Millie's past are brought to light.

In 1946, Millie Middleton--the daughter of an Italian man and a Black woman--boarded a train and left Charleston to keep half of her heritage hidden. She carried with her two heirloom buttons and the dream of owning a dress store. She never expected to meet a charming train jumper who changed her life forever . . . and led her yet again to a heartbreaking choice about which heritage would define her future.

Now, together, Harper and Millie return to Charleston to find the man who may hold the answers they seek . . . and a chance at the dress shop they've both dreamed of. But it's not until all appears lost that they see the unexpected ways to mend what frayed between the seams.

My Review:
Wow! What a wonderful story. The Dress Shop on King Street captures the tension of the time period in the 1940s-60s, then slips on to modern day to tell an incredible story of courage, despair, and hope. I absolutely love Millie and Franklin's story as Millie traverses the world of a white person, whose heritage speaks differently. At times Millie's story breaks my heart and makes me angry because of the unfair world she lives in, but she perseveres. Harper's search for the future she dreams of leads Millie and her into Peter's life. The story that tumbles out of the past and crashes into the future is one filled with untold secrets, regrets, and hope, always hope. I also enjoyed the sewing references and the tale of the buttons. I'd love to see Harper's gorgeous creations. Ashley Clark did a beautiful job stitching the eras together and giving Harper a clear understanding of what it takes to follow your dreams. 5+ stars. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Dream Dress by Janice Thompson

The Dream Dress by Janice Thompson

Book 3 in the Weddings by Design series

Stitched together with love and laughter, The Dream Dress introduces us to Gabi Delgado, wedding dress designer. Trouble is she spends more time sewing hems, altering bodices and securing beads than sketching dresses. Has designing become a distant dream lost in the piles of satin and lace? Not if her friends can help it.

This romantic comedy has just the right blend of funny, lovable characters who take Gabi with them on their journey as they serve God. From Gabi’s rude and demanding boss to her attractive acquaintance, Jordan Singer, author Janice Thompson punches up their story with humor and romance.  I laughed out loud at this delightful tale of wishes and dreams.

I recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading about weddings, falling in love, the wedding industry or just a sweet read. Five stars.

Description from the back of the book:

A lowly seamstress at a swanky bridal boutique, Gabi Delgado dreams of doing more than ripping out seams and fitting dresses to doe-eyed brides. She wants to see her own original dress designs gracing the young women of Texas. But when Jordan Singer, reporter for Texas Bride magazine, visits the shop to do a feature, Gabi is humbled in his influential--and unnervingly handsome--presence.

Convinced she'll never get her dreams off the ground now, Gabi needs lots of encouragement--especially from her friend Bella Neeley--to take a chance and start her business. And as she gets to know Jordan, she discovers that she may have to take a chance on love as well.

Thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing this book honestly.