Beauty For Ashes by Dorothy Love

Book Description

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 Thoughts

This book is the second in the series but you don't necessarily need to read them in order. I didn't and had no problems with it.

The main character, Carrie Daly, was very easy to relate to and I found myself mad, happy, and sad when she was. I loved how Carrie did what needed to be down with little thought to herself. Not that she was always happy with what was required of her but she did it in spite of her feelings, which I admire. 

The romance between Carrie and Griff was nice but the author did a great job of not making it the overwhelming focus of the story. Instead she split the plot between their romance and each of the character's personal and spiritual growth. All in all I thoroughly enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more from Dorothy Love.

 I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com  book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.