Karen Witemeyer’s latest novel “Full Steam Ahead” follows a Louisiana Shipping heir on a mission to find a husband to continue her family’s business. Nicole Renard embarks on the journey with a precious family heirloom that puts her life in danger. Nicole’s obsession with keeping the treasure almost kills her and her husband-to-be, Darius Thornton. Their unlikely love story never would have materialized if it wasn’t for the beloved heirloom, a dagger.

BTSCelebs was utterly surprised by the story that started with tragedy and slowly worked its way back to dangerous action. The series of events were unexpected as they unfolded.

The supporting characters, in particular, were a little hard to accept. From the ailing father to the young thief turned honest worker, the cast failed to tug at the heartstrings. The mention of a former slave, which historically would have been around in the 1840s, wasn’t necessary to tell the tale. It seemed very demeaning in a fictional book. The following quote stood out among the rest when describing the cook named Mrs. Graham:

“I suppose it’s natural for a former slave to feel that way, but no matter how many times I explain that Arthur and I are servants on equal footing with her, she refuses to come to the table at lunch, preferring to take a plate out on the back porch and eat on the stairs….”

Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy this book so I wouldn’t recommend it.

*BTSCelebs thanks Bethany House for the complimentary copy of the book.*