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Tangled Promises
Thunderous applause extinguishes her dream and ignites her worst nightmare.
Clara Reinhold’s father publicly pledges her hand to Georg Wolff. His character and arrogance match the stench of his odious cigars, but his lineage offers a suitable alliance for the station of a baron’s daughter.
A charades clue years earlier turned friendship into a promise of forbidden marriage between Clara and family carriage driver, Daniel Becker.
If she refuses Georg and follows her heart, her father disowns her and she loses everything - her loving family, dear friends, and the only home she’s known.
As a tangled web of scandal and deceit unwinds, hidden motives and illicit activities emerge among an unsuspecting ring of players changing everything but nobility’s rules .
How will justice be served?
How will Clara and Daniel overcome obstacles to claim a future beyond that of a charade?
If you enjoy stories of faith in the face of society's pressures and trusting God in times of struggle, you'll love this closed-door romance that will keep you guessing until the end. For readers of Tracie Peterson and Ann H. Gabhart.
Originally published by Celebrate Lit Publishing, May 2024
Clara Reinhold’s father publicly pledges her hand to Georg Wolff. His character and arrogance match the stench of his odious cigars, but his lineage offers a suitable alliance for the station of a baron’s daughter.
A charades clue years earlier turned friendship into a promise of forbidden marriage between Clara and family carriage driver, Daniel Becker.
If she refuses Georg and follows her heart, her father disowns her and she loses everything - her loving family, dear friends, and the only home she’s known.
As a tangled web of scandal and deceit unwinds, hidden motives and illicit activities emerge among an unsuspecting ring of players changing everything but nobility’s rules .
How will justice be served?
How will Clara and Daniel overcome obstacles to claim a future beyond that of a charade?
If you enjoy stories of faith in the face of society's pressures and trusting God in times of struggle, you'll love this closed-door romance that will keep you guessing until the end. For readers of Tracie Peterson and Ann H. Gabhart.
Originally published by Celebrate Lit Publishing, May 2024
- GenresHistorical
424 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 3, 2024
11 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Lynn U. Watson
6 books636 followersAward-winning author, Lynn U. Watson is the great-great-granddaughter of a baron from Southwest Germany. From stories whispered down generations to the vibrant threads of her own life, Lynn's journey is a testament to creativity and compassion. Nurtured by her grandmother's love of needlework, Lynn built a thriving custom clothing business, and with her husband, Steve, they created The Lynn'n Butterfly Collection (cross-stitch designs). In 2007, Lynn became a certified reflexologist, opening Footsteps in Eden, a haven where she uses touch therapy and prayer to relax her clients. She combines her passions and heritage Stepping through Time Stitching Stories of Faith. Lynn, Steve, and their feline overlord, Jasmine, call Bartlett, Tennessee home.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 2, 2024
Tangled Promises is a story of betrayal, secrets, and an unwanted betrothal. The story had some twists and other surprises I didn't see coming.
It is fast paced with continuing circumstances driving the plot forward. Clara and Daniel's secret touched my heart, along with his ability to protect Clara.
The ending wrapped up all the questions I had. The story was well-written and inspiring.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and willingly chose to review it. All opinions are my own.
It is fast paced with continuing circumstances driving the plot forward. Clara and Daniel's secret touched my heart, along with his ability to protect Clara.
The ending wrapped up all the questions I had. The story was well-written and inspiring.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and willingly chose to review it. All opinions are my own.
September 18, 2024
Unique Historical fiction set in 1800s Germany
This is an interesting Christian fiction with a beautiful setting. This book is full of drama and mystery. The author writes through a Christian lense and covers some deep and sensitive topics. You can tell this book is well researched.
This is an interesting Christian fiction with a beautiful setting. This book is full of drama and mystery. The author writes through a Christian lense and covers some deep and sensitive topics. You can tell this book is well researched.
May 21, 2024
Lynn U. Watson's debut novel immerses you fully into the time period as well as the setting (which was Germany). I definitely felt submerged into the culture, the language, the customs, and the emotions of the characters. She does a great job with her attention to detail. And she provides an intimate look into family secrets and those that can twist them for their own gain.
I was on pins and needles most of time worried what Georg would do next. I recently heard that if an author can keep the reader guessing, they are doing their job. Lynn definitely does that. I had no idea if Daniel and Clara would be together. They had so many obstacles and I could not see a way around them.
A lesson in forgiveness and leaning on the Lord during trials, I don’t think I could be as forgiving as Clara, though she obviously struggled. I hope to see more of Clara and Daniel in her next book. I want to know what happens next.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher. This review is my honest opinion.
I was on pins and needles most of time worried what Georg would do next. I recently heard that if an author can keep the reader guessing, they are doing their job. Lynn definitely does that. I had no idea if Daniel and Clara would be together. They had so many obstacles and I could not see a way around them.
A lesson in forgiveness and leaning on the Lord during trials, I don’t think I could be as forgiving as Clara, though she obviously struggled. I hope to see more of Clara and Daniel in her next book. I want to know what happens next.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher. This review is my honest opinion.
May 25, 2024
This is a true melodrama in the very best sense of the word! Entertaining throughout. The heroine's plight moves you and the villain's dastardly ways keep you booing and hissing (and guessing!) The rich historical details are evocative of the time, and make this a delightful trip to 19th Century Germany.
I received an advance copy from my publisher, but this is my honest review.
I received an advance copy from my publisher, but this is my honest review.
July 1, 2024
I enjoyed the setting and learning more about the way of life during this time period. I felt bad for Clara whose father was trying to force her to marry someone she did not love. This man that her father has chosen for her is disrespectful, greedy and without any remorse for what he had done to Clara.
I loved following Clara as she goes to Paris. Hoping to get away and spend time with an old friend, she finds herself starting to ask what plans God has for her. The author delivers a character who struggles at times with trust and illustrates how our faith can see us through difficult times. With a few twists and an unexpected ending I hope to read more from this author.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
I loved following Clara as she goes to Paris. Hoping to get away and spend time with an old friend, she finds herself starting to ask what plans God has for her. The author delivers a character who struggles at times with trust and illustrates how our faith can see us through difficult times. With a few twists and an unexpected ending I hope to read more from this author.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
July 4, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this forbidden love story based upon an 1800s German noble family. This felt like a clean Bridgerton with all the secrets & drama!
Holding my attention to the very end, I became completely immersed in the characters, setting, and even pieces of the German language and tradition the author sprinkled throughout.
Part of me wants a corset and beautiful gown and part of me loves my freedom & independence. This book definitely reminds us as women just how far we have come but also perhaps the good parts of being treasured and protected.
Bravo on a fantastic debut to this series!
Holding my attention to the very end, I became completely immersed in the characters, setting, and even pieces of the German language and tradition the author sprinkled throughout.
Part of me wants a corset and beautiful gown and part of me loves my freedom & independence. This book definitely reminds us as women just how far we have come but also perhaps the good parts of being treasured and protected.
Bravo on a fantastic debut to this series!
July 2, 2024
Thunderous applause extinguished her dream and ignited Clara Reinhold’s worst nightmare.”
This debut novel by Lynn U Watson about a daughter struggling to honor her father in an unwanted betrothal was difficult to read. Tangled Promises is much like a fairy tale that seems to promise a nightmare ending instead of a happily-ever-after. It brings to mind the saying , “Who’s afraid of the big bad Wolff?!”
What makes the novel difficult is the logic behind the characters’s actions, specifically that of honoring God and one’s parents, even in such a decision. It seems apparent to Clara, the daughter, and her twin Curt, that Georg, the man Clara is betrothed to by her father’s agreement, is arrogant, mean, and downright dangerous. Yet, Clara’s mother feels she cannot counter her husband’s decision, as a wife should honor her husband. As Clara is reminded of verses to honor her father, she reluctantly goes along with this very unhealthy relationship, which her father can’t seem to see, nor will he explain.
Thankfully, a lot of praying goes on in the book as different incidents happen. Much godly advice is sought, which is good. But I still wonder if an adult child ( at that age) is required to honor a parent ( who is turning a blind eye to true character of the proposed spouse) to that degree.
Watson brings in a lot of different Bible verses in different situations. No long sermons. Just characters quoting applicable Scriptures at the appropriate times.
So much desperation in this book! Clara and Curt and others wonder when God is going to answer. “You know I’m praying, and we must accept God’s answer whatever it is. God sees far beyond what we discern, but I’m struggling with my faith. Does God even see us, Curt?”
If you enjoy justice served, don’t stop reading! Watson uses her characters to come together and ferret out the truth in amazing ways! Also, much distinction is made between those who think they are better than others and those who treat all equally. This is another underpinning of this historical fiction story that will have you favoring some characters and wishing others would see themselves through the eyes of those around them..
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“A man’s free to choose his entertainment, Mutter.” “Ja, but the entertainment he chooses defines him.”
“I know Who waits to help His children. He’s not a folktale or an imaginary spirit. God’s plan is better than any man’s or a gnome’s map.”
This debut novel by Lynn U Watson about a daughter struggling to honor her father in an unwanted betrothal was difficult to read. Tangled Promises is much like a fairy tale that seems to promise a nightmare ending instead of a happily-ever-after. It brings to mind the saying , “Who’s afraid of the big bad Wolff?!”
What makes the novel difficult is the logic behind the characters’s actions, specifically that of honoring God and one’s parents, even in such a decision. It seems apparent to Clara, the daughter, and her twin Curt, that Georg, the man Clara is betrothed to by her father’s agreement, is arrogant, mean, and downright dangerous. Yet, Clara’s mother feels she cannot counter her husband’s decision, as a wife should honor her husband. As Clara is reminded of verses to honor her father, she reluctantly goes along with this very unhealthy relationship, which her father can’t seem to see, nor will he explain.
Thankfully, a lot of praying goes on in the book as different incidents happen. Much godly advice is sought, which is good. But I still wonder if an adult child ( at that age) is required to honor a parent ( who is turning a blind eye to true character of the proposed spouse) to that degree.
Watson brings in a lot of different Bible verses in different situations. No long sermons. Just characters quoting applicable Scriptures at the appropriate times.
So much desperation in this book! Clara and Curt and others wonder when God is going to answer. “You know I’m praying, and we must accept God’s answer whatever it is. God sees far beyond what we discern, but I’m struggling with my faith. Does God even see us, Curt?”
If you enjoy justice served, don’t stop reading! Watson uses her characters to come together and ferret out the truth in amazing ways! Also, much distinction is made between those who think they are better than others and those who treat all equally. This is another underpinning of this historical fiction story that will have you favoring some characters and wishing others would see themselves through the eyes of those around them..
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“A man’s free to choose his entertainment, Mutter.” “Ja, but the entertainment he chooses defines him.”
“I know Who waits to help His children. He’s not a folktale or an imaginary spirit. God’s plan is better than any man’s or a gnome’s map.”
July 1, 2024
Tangled Promises by Lynn Watson is a Historical Romance. Clara Reinhold has wonderful dreams but finds herself living her worst nightmare. Trapped in a courtship with a man she fears and despises, she unwillingly submits to her father’s expectations. But a young man who serves as the family’s footman, along with his mother, her twin brother, and others, strives to help her escape.
I loved getting to know Clara, her twin brother Curtis, Daniel Becker, his mother, and others in the story. The Big Bad Wolf, Georg Wolff, provides this story’s perfectly revolting, antagonistic, arrogant suitor. Secrets from the past threaten their futures and are what catapulted Clara’s father, the Baron, into accepting Georg’s pursuit of his daughter.
The suspense built up in this story and the way the story ended made me want more. I want to see where life takes Clara, Daniel, her parents, brother, and sisters. Also, her best friend, Georg’s sister, who fled to America, would be another great story. The history and dynamics between Clara’s parents also add to the dimensions of this story.
With other storylines in the background, other characters who help reveal Georg’s actual agenda and the secrets he tries to hide make this book one I could not put down.
So, if you enjoy historical romances, check out Tangled Promises by Lynn Watson. I recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
I loved getting to know Clara, her twin brother Curtis, Daniel Becker, his mother, and others in the story. The Big Bad Wolf, Georg Wolff, provides this story’s perfectly revolting, antagonistic, arrogant suitor. Secrets from the past threaten their futures and are what catapulted Clara’s father, the Baron, into accepting Georg’s pursuit of his daughter.
The suspense built up in this story and the way the story ended made me want more. I want to see where life takes Clara, Daniel, her parents, brother, and sisters. Also, her best friend, Georg’s sister, who fled to America, would be another great story. The history and dynamics between Clara’s parents also add to the dimensions of this story.
With other storylines in the background, other characters who help reveal Georg’s actual agenda and the secrets he tries to hide make this book one I could not put down.
So, if you enjoy historical romances, check out Tangled Promises by Lynn Watson. I recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
July 5, 2024
Christian Historical Romance is a favorite genre of mine. Tangled Promises by Lynn U. Watson is the most recent book in this genre that I have read. It is Book 1 in the Promised Destiny Series. Lynn U. Watson is a "new to me author" and I was excited to read this book as I enjoy finding new authors.
I have to say that it took me a couple of chapters to really get into the storyline. Once I grasped the storyline, I really enjoyed the book. I LOVE the setting of Germany and the time period. Clara Reinhold is stuck with a hard decision. Her father wants to have an arranged marriage for Clara. Clara's heart doesn't want to be a part of the marriage with Georg Wolff. Although, the one she does want to marry, Daniel Becker, is a forbidden marriage. Her father will disown her if she doesn't choose Georg, who comes from an affluent family. Clara wants to be God-honoring in her decision to LOVE and Marry. I LOVE how she decides to take "vacation" to clear her head. Secrets are revealed that make her decision even more difficult. The book is one of Faith, LOVE and Romance. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Chrisitain Historical Romance. GREAT BOOK!
I have to say that it took me a couple of chapters to really get into the storyline. Once I grasped the storyline, I really enjoyed the book. I LOVE the setting of Germany and the time period. Clara Reinhold is stuck with a hard decision. Her father wants to have an arranged marriage for Clara. Clara's heart doesn't want to be a part of the marriage with Georg Wolff. Although, the one she does want to marry, Daniel Becker, is a forbidden marriage. Her father will disown her if she doesn't choose Georg, who comes from an affluent family. Clara wants to be God-honoring in her decision to LOVE and Marry. I LOVE how she decides to take "vacation" to clear her head. Secrets are revealed that make her decision even more difficult. The book is one of Faith, LOVE and Romance. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Chrisitain Historical Romance. GREAT BOOK!
July 11, 2024
This is a fun new novel. It’s also the debut novel of our author. It was a pleasure to read this. I loved the mix of characters as well as the historical aspect thrown in as well as some romance. It also promises more to come since it’s marked as the first book in a series.
I enjoyed journeying to Germany in this novel. I also got a bit of an education on the class structure and what life might have been like. Add in a story of love that isn’t allowed. Oh and an overbearing domineering father. And maybe an arranged marriage as well. There really is so much more as well but I don’t want to spoil the story.
What you need to know though is that this is one of those books that keeps the reader guessing what might happen next and how it’s going to end. It’s a wonderful read and I can’t wait to see what the author comes up with next.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I enjoyed journeying to Germany in this novel. I also got a bit of an education on the class structure and what life might have been like. Add in a story of love that isn’t allowed. Oh and an overbearing domineering father. And maybe an arranged marriage as well. There really is so much more as well but I don’t want to spoil the story.
What you need to know though is that this is one of those books that keeps the reader guessing what might happen next and how it’s going to end. It’s a wonderful read and I can’t wait to see what the author comes up with next.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
May 17, 2024
I love books that let you escape to another time and place, and Tangled Promises certainly delivered!
Set in late 19th century Germany, we meet Clara Reinhold, a member of the nobility. She is duty bound to marry the obnoxious man her father has pledged her to even though her heart belongs to another.
Clara struggles to be faithful to her father’s wishes, often turning to God to understand why she must endure this. Along the way she uncovers painful family secrets.
An enjoyable read with an ending that surprised me.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher. This review is my honest opinion.
Set in late 19th century Germany, we meet Clara Reinhold, a member of the nobility. She is duty bound to marry the obnoxious man her father has pledged her to even though her heart belongs to another.
Clara struggles to be faithful to her father’s wishes, often turning to God to understand why she must endure this. Along the way she uncovers painful family secrets.
An enjoyable read with an ending that surprised me.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher. This review is my honest opinion.
June 30, 2024
“Tangled Promises”was a good book.It took me a while to get into it but once I did, I had to keep turning those pages. This story ended up being an an inspirational read and had lots of Bible verses some had the scripture references, and some was just the passages without the verse and Book mentioned.This book has love and sorrow and betrayal.I think this is the first book in the series. At least I hope it is because the ending left me wanting more. This is a story of privilege and worth
verses commoners.
I received a complementary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opininon are my own.
verses commoners.
I received a complementary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opininon are my own.
May 20, 2024
This book is the first time I’ve read this author’s work. I love historical fiction for the setting, details, and cultural nuances of the era. Set in Germany, then in France, gives readers a chance to experience both countries. Clara, a Baron’s daughter, has much expected of her. All she wants is to live her life with whom she loves. Readers feel her angst, then we enjoy the delightful resolution to the conflict. If you love historical romance with creative storylines, you’ll want to read this one.
May 21, 2024
Join Clara in 19th Century Germany as her father promises her hand in marriage to Georg Wolfe who has always treated her badly. Clara and her brother call Georg "The Big Bad Wolf". Clara loves Daniel but law prevents their marriage because he is a commoner. The story gives a look into nobility requirements of that day. Some of the story seemed far-fetched to me even for that time period. Clara was too gullible! I did enjoy learning about that era. I received a complimentary e-book from the author. This is my honest opinion.
July 1, 2024
I thought this was a good romance with a seemingly impossible love story. I loved how there were so many tangled up stories that had to be revealed before Clara and Daniel could be together. I liked how the author showed how much Clara’s family loved her even when it may not have seemed like it at the time. I liked the characters and I liked how everything got resolved in the end.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
July 24, 2025
If you have a German heritage, this is the historical book for you. Watson uses so many authentic German titles and phrases, she wisely included a glossary for the reader. One trope for this story is mismatched lovers, a Cinderella reversal, with the Baron's daughter pining over their carriage driver. The antagonist nearly steals the show with his high-handed arrogance and interference, one of those characters you love to hate.
May 9, 2024
Tangled Promises is full of suspense and forbidden love. The author brings out Scriptural applications for leaning into Christ during times of trial. And brings the book to conclusion as the heroine, Clara, choses the forbidden love even though it will cost her. The author’s personal heritage behind the novel is most moving
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2024
I loved this book. It was a beautiful story filled with God's promises, struggle, hope, love, found family, family drama, mystery, and I could continue. This book has it all. I felt like I stepped into 1800s Germany. Lynn is an amazing writer and I can't wait for hey next book in this series♡
August 22, 2024
Great Historical Read
The characters in this book captivated me throughout. If you enjoy historical fiction, this is a wonderful story to read! I look forward to the next book in the series.
The characters in this book captivated me throughout. If you enjoy historical fiction, this is a wonderful story to read! I look forward to the next book in the series.
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February 19, 2025Watson has researched and recreated the cultural and time period well. The villain is such a slobbery cad, he has no redeeming quality, but the other characters are believable and great. This is the first book in a promising series.
July 15, 2025
Good Historical Romance
Tangled Promises is a good book about two people in love when her father doesn’t approve. She is engaged to another. Watson really captures the historical setting of another country along with a good plot. You’ll enjoy this book…
Tangled Promises is a good book about two people in love when her father doesn’t approve. She is engaged to another. Watson really captures the historical setting of another country along with a good plot. You’ll enjoy this book…
August 11, 2025
A beautiful story—great historical fiction. Watson’s character will immerse you deep into the tale. Clara has a dilemma—betrothed to one she doesn’t want to marry, chosen by her father. The twists and turns will keep you turning the pages.
May 24, 2024
Tangled Promises did not disappoint! I was riveted as I turned each pages to learn Clara’s story.
July 18, 2025
Engaging historical with rich setting and great characters!
May 25, 2024
Lynn Watson's debut novel is a good book choice for readers who like Christian historical romance with a unique setting and a touch of mystery!
July 20, 2024
This delightful story has a little of everything, romance, history and suspense. I loved learning about the culture and the introduction of foods, fashion and even music fed my interests.
Clara is a character not quite like I’ve ever read before and I enjoyed her spunky comebacks, even for the time period. Her heart belongs to Daniel and he too caught my heart. The “wolf” was the bad guy you loved to hate. Well-done! The story is very well -written and for all the many characters, L. Watson developed each one impressively. I’m sure the rest of the series will entertain us even more.
Clara is a character not quite like I’ve ever read before and I enjoyed her spunky comebacks, even for the time period. Her heart belongs to Daniel and he too caught my heart. The “wolf” was the bad guy you loved to hate. Well-done! The story is very well -written and for all the many characters, L. Watson developed each one impressively. I’m sure the rest of the series will entertain us even more.
May 30, 2024
Tangled Promises starts off the Promised Destiny series. It is, also, the first story I have read by the talented author, Lynn U Watson. I thought it was a great introduction for me. I adored meeting the main characters, Clara and Daniel. Their story was one that was full of mystique, intrigue, adventure, suspense and romance. I had no problem taking an extended break to read the whole tale in one sitting. Which was time well spend. I loved every single page.
I am giving Tangled Promises five stars. I highly recommend it for fans of clean historical romance. I hope to read the second installment from the Promised Destiny series to see what happens next.
I received a digital copy of Lynn U Watson's Tangled Promises from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving Tangled Promises five stars. I highly recommend it for fans of clean historical romance. I hope to read the second installment from the Promised Destiny series to see what happens next.
I received a digital copy of Lynn U Watson's Tangled Promises from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews