The Gilded Curse by Marilyn Turk

I enjoyed this historical mystery set on the east coast during the time of WW II. Turk has done a good job of presenting the setting. Jekyll Island was where the millionaires vacationed in the winter. There was a clubhouse to enjoy and individual cottages. One of those cottages was owned by Lexie's family. But the depression and the death of her mother forces Lexie to plan on selling the cottage.

There is a mystery as Lexie had received a telegram asking her to return to the island. She hadn't been there for years. Someone seems to be searching the cottage even as Lexie arranges to have repairs made. Then there is an attempt on her life.

There is romance as Russell, the manager of the clubhouse and friend from the earlier years, has eyes for Lexie. She is unsure of where to place her affection as another vies for her attention.

There is detail to history too. There's a German submarine off the coast and concerns about the possibility of danger to those on the island.

There is also Christian message. Lexie severely doubts God's love for her. She is troubled by past events and we wonder if her faith will be renewed.

I appreciate the many issues covered in the plot. One is the loss of wealth and reduced living conditions for some while others continue to live in opulence. Another issue is mental illness and how one might relate to those so afflicted. There are also the issues of a possible curse and the love of God for believers. Discussion questions are included.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Marilyn Turk has been published in a number of magazines. A book of devotions including some of her lighthouse blogs was published in 2015. The Gilded Curse was published in 2016 and the sequel this summer. She lives in Florida. You can find out more at http://pathwayheart.com/.

Heritage Beacon Fiction, 258 pages.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author. My comments are an independent and honest review.