Last year, I became part of a review panel for new books published by Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing.  The deal is, I occasionally receive emails containing the title and description of a book.  It could be just about any kind of book… Christian fiction, parenting, homemaking, self-help, etc.  If it looks like something I’d like to read, I respond to the email, and a few weeks later, my book arrives.

My latest choice was When Love Calls by Lorna Seilstad.  The book description from Amazon.com reads:

Hannah Gregory is good at many things, but that list doesn’t include following rules. So when she is forced to apply for a job as a telephone switchboard operator to support her two sisters, she knows it won’t be easy. “Hello Girls” must conduct themselves according to strict–and often bewildering–rules. No talking to the other girls. No chatting with callers. No blowing your nose without first raising your hand. And absolutely no consorting with gentlemen while in training.

Meanwhile, young lawyer Lincoln Cole finds himself in the unfortunate position of having to enforce the bank’s eviction of the three Gregory girls from their parents’ home. He tries to soften the blow by supporting them in small ways as they settle into another home. But fiery Hannah refuses his overtures and insists on paying back every cent of his charity.

When one of Hannah’s friends finds himself on the wrong side of a jail cell, Hannah is forced to look to Lincoln for help. Will it be her chance to return to her dreams of studying law? And could she be falling in love?

With historic details that bring to life the exciting first decade of the twentieth century, Lorna Seilstad weaves a charming tale of camaraderie and companionship that blossoms into love. Readers will get lost in this sweet romance and will eagerly look forward to championing each sister’s dreams.

First, can we just talk about the cover for a minute?  WOW!  I know you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but I was immediately captivated by the beauty of the artwork.

Now that I’ve gotten that off my chest, let’s move on to the story itself.

I have always had an interest in history – the clothing, the architecture, the general culture of bygone times – but I would’ve preferred to experience them than read about them in textbooks.  Seilstad managed to sprinkle historical details from the early 1900’s throughout the story without making it dry and lifeless.  I felt as if I had been transported straight into the backseat of Lincoln Cole’s fancy new automobile as it rumbled down the road.  The characters were unique and endearing, and the storyline moved quickly enough to keep my attention from start to finish.

If you’re looking for a fun mix of history, adventure, drama, and sweet romance, this easy read is the perfect choice!  If you’re like me, you’ll close the book for the last time, and feel anxious for the next installment in the Gregory Sisters series (coming in 2014).

Disclosure: I was provided a free copy via the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.  Available May 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.