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Book Review

Publisher's Note:

Can unexpected grace lay the foundation for a second chance at love? After a decade away, Parker Bennett returns home with a traveling troupe to perform a play based on Uncle Tom's Cabin at the Kalispell Opera House. Parker has relished his life on the road, but being home awakens long-buried emotions when he encounters his first love, Johanna St. John. He can't help but wonder if there might still be a place for him in her heart. Widowed for three years, Johanna devotes all her time to a demanding toddler, an injured father, and a successful millinery business. After the loss of her husband, she desires to move on, but reconnecting with her past love leaves her unsure of what lies ahead. Both committed to God's distinct calling on their lives, Johanna and Parker struggle to see how their futures can unite, and when strange things start happening around town, their second chance at a life together seems more unlikely than ever. Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse present another journey to the American Frontier with themes of second chances and the enduring power of grace despite life's trials. An Unexpected Grace makes a compelling read for fans of Christian romance novels, exploring love through the lens of faith.…

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An Unexpected Grace

by Tracie Peterson & Kimberley Woodhouse

Overall Book Review:

If you have read the previous books in the series, you will recognize some of your favorite characters. However, if you are just picking up the series here, you can follow things pretty easily. This historic tale takes place in the late 1890s in Kalispell, Montana, as one might guess from the name of the series.

It seems the human heart yearns for two main things, love and lust. In some the desire to love others and be loved takes the deepest root. In others, the lust for wealth and prestige overshadows all. This story is a tale of Johanna St. John who dearly loves her daughter and father and is rekindling a love for someone she once loved. Then there is the opposite–James St. John whose quest for riches seemingly knows no bounds.

Readers will find hope, love and courage as Johanna puts her trust and God. The opposite is true for James. He is so consumed with fulfilling his worldly aspirations that he completely destroys his own life. The story has a great deal more in it, but in the interest of avoiding spoilers, suffice to say this really serves to illustrate which way of life leads to happiness. Romantics and historical fiction enthusiasts will find plenty to interest them in this story.

Review of an Advance Reader Copy Provided by the Publisher

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language: None

Violence/Gore:  Several scenes where a character recalls intentionally killing people, no graphic details given; a character asks another to kill herself; a character sets fire to a building; a child is kidnapped.

Sex/Nudity: Characters kiss and embrace.

Mature Subject Matter:

Death of a spouse, blackmail.

Drug/Alcohol Use:  

Several mentions of a character consuming whiskey.

Overall Book Rating
Profanity/Language
Rating:
0
10
Violence/Gore
Rating:
3
10
Sex/Nudity
Rating:
1
10

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About the Reviewer

I primarily read fiction from all genres. I have six children and many happy hours have been spent reading together. I also love quilting, hiking, and camping.