Thursday, February 16, 2012

Beauty for Ashes

From the back of the book: She’s a beautiful young widow. He’s a Southern gentleman with a thirst for adventure. Both need a place to call home.


After losing her husband in the Civil War, Carrie Daly is scared she will never have the family she longs for. Eligible bachelors are scarce in Hickory Ridge, Tennessee, but Carrie Daly has found love. Not the weak-in-the-knees kind, but something practical. Still, she isn't quite ready to set a wedding date with Nate Chastain.

Griff Rutledge is a former member of Charleston society, but has been estranged from his family for years. He’s determined to remain unattached, never settling in one place for too long. But when asked to train a Thoroughbred for an upcoming race in Hickory Ridge, he decides to stay awhile.

Despite objections from the townsfolk, and her fear that true happiness has eluded her, Carrie is drawn to Griff's kindness and charm. It will take a leap of faith for them to open their hearts and claim God's promise to trade beauty for ashes.

My review: Dorothy Love is a new author for me, and I enjoyed reading Beauty for Ashes. Carrie is a character that readers can relate to. She struggles with balancing duty to family and living her own life. Her character is developed well throughout the book, and I felt like I really got to know her. This is a simple book with everyday issues, and all the characters and circumstances were believable. I did feel a little lost with some of the minor characters, and look forward to reading the first book in the series so that I can get to know them a little better. I also look forward to reading the next books in this series. Anyone who enjoys historical fiction would enjoy this book. I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through their Booksneeze blogger program in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.