Litfuse Blog Tour + My Review: Beauty for Ashes by Dorothy Love

March 05, 2012

Beauty for Ashes
by Dorothy Love
Copyright 2012
Thomas Nelson Publishers
ISBN: 9781595549013

My Thoughts:
Last year's inspirational debut by author Dorothy Love was a good edition to my romance library but Beyond All Measure doesn't compare to Beauty for Ashes, book two in the Hickory Ridge Romance series. From the very beginning I was hooked! Carrie Daly had my sympathies dealing with a bossy sister-in-law and her two bratty boys. I have to say this is the first book of the year that made me want to throw it across the room. Very rarely do I get angry with characters but Mary...well Mary was quite contrary, hence the book hurling. As the story progressed I really didn't think things could get much worse for Carrie but it seemed one tragedy or trial after another came her way. This isn't a perfect happily ever after type story for Carrie but thankfully Mary and her sons evolve to become a bit more likable. I will say that I didn't like that we don't learn what happens to Nate, one of Carrie's beaus but I suspect that he is going to be a key character in Every Perfect Gift. Beauty for Ashes is definitely a keeper and has earned Dorothy the title of "Must Read Author" from me!

~4 stars~

To read what others are saying about the book go HERE.

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.

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 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 give beauty for ashes.

*I received my complimentary review copy through Litfuse in exchange for posting my honest opinion of the book for this tour.*

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Giveaway Details:

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!