Beauty for Ashes by Dorothy Love

Beauty for Ashes
A Hickory Ridge Romance (Bk 2)
Author: Dorothy Love
ISBN: 9781595549013
Trade Paperback: 336 pages
Available from Thomas Nelson

About 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.

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 give beauty for ashes.

My Thoughts:

Taking place in 1876, this historical novel captured my interest from the very first sentence. It was fast-paced with characters that one can easily get to know. The main characters, Griff and Carrie were both very likable and when I came to the last page, I was disappointed that it ended. I felt like I had to say goodbye to some great friends.

Dorothy Love has the gift to create both a believable plot and very realistic characters. Centering around the Depression, she really brought life to the time and the problems people faced. It was so realistic and I was so enamored with this Hickory Ridge novel, that I read it in one day. Although this is the second book in the series, I didn't realize it until I finished the book and read "A Note from the Author". Dorothy gave enough back story that I didn't miss reading the first novel in the series "Beyond All Measure", but after reading this one, I must get my hands on the first!

With a strong message of faith and hope, I deeply appreciated how it was handled throughout the story. For me, this was a book that had a message that helped during a troubled spot, reminding me that I need to hand  things over to God.  I adored this book and will be impatiently waiting for the next novel in the series!

About Dorothy:

Before returning to her writing roots in historical fiction, Dorothy Love published twelve novels for young adults. Her work has garnered numerous honors from the American Library Association, the Friends of American Writers, the International Reading Association, the New York Public Library, and many others. The Hickory Ridge Novels mark her Christian fiction debut.

For more about Dorothy visit her website, www.dorothylovebooks.com or friend her on Facebook.com/DorothyLoveBooks.

See what other bloggers in the tour have to say about "Beauty for Ashes".


Dorothy Love's Beauty for Ashes Kindle Fire and a Sapphire Ring Giveaway! Enter Today & RSVP for 3/20 Facebook Author Chat Party!

We're thrilled to announce the fun giveaway Dorothy is hosting! First, she'll be giving away a Kindle Fire (3/1-3/20), then on the evening of the 20th she's inviting everyone to her Facebook Author Page for a fun Author Chat party! Don't miss a minute of the fun ... sigh.




One beautiful winner will receive:

• A Brand new Kindle Fire with Wi-Fi
• Beauty for Ashes by Dorothy Love
• Beyond All Measure by Dorothy Love

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/20/12. Winner will be announced at Dorothy's Facebook Author Chat Party on 3/20. Come for an evening of chat, trivia, and a sneak peek at the next book in Dorothy's Hickory Ridge series - bring your friends! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books and a stunning sapphire ring!

So grab your copy of Beauty for Ashes  and join Dorothy and friends on the evening of March 20th for an evening of fun.

Don't miss Dorothy's delightful giveaway and party. RSVP TODAY and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 20th!

 

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher for this tour. I was not required to write a positive review, but instead, one that gives my honest opinion.