Ruth Trippy

Title: The Soul of the Rose
Author: Ruth Trippy
Pages: 337
Year: 2013
Publisher: Abingdon Press
This is just a lovely romantic story set in Massachusetts in 1876. If you are looking for action, then this isn’t the book for you. It is a charming romance set in a time that some of the more romantic of us long for, but one that has passed on. There is also a potential murderer thrown in!
Celia Thatcher has been sent to live with good friends, the Chestleys, of her parents upon the death of her best friend, a friend with whom Celia had yet to share the gospel. Celia is really having a hard time coming to terms with her role or lack thereof in her friend’s faith. Celia is put to work in a bookstore, which she finds as no work at all as she loves books and soon is charming all the customers with her intelligent dialogue. She participates in the local book discussion group and gains the attention of two different men as suitors. She has a deep faith in the Lord and can defend her faith intelligently without condescension or condemnation.
Edward Lyons is the town hermit. It hasn’t always been this way. Since the death of his wife at a young age, suspicion has run rampant that he might have killed his young wife. He only comes out at night and keeps to the company of his books rather than people. He is quickly drawn to Celia’s quick mind and thorough thoughts on various books as well as religion and science. He is a man who has been avoiding God and soon sees that Celia is a woman who embraces Him. Edward feels he is the only man who can truly appreciate Celia for her mind and not just her beauty. He has a rival in courting her in Charles Harrod, a young law student who also garners Celia’s attention with his discussion of books and a take on religion that Celia has never heard before. Does Charles really want Celia for herself? Will Celia choose the older Edward over young Charles?
I thought this book had very good dialogue between characters and the way the rose theme was woven throughout was done smartly. Added to the romance is also some mystery surrounding one of the characters. I loved the interaction between Mr. and Mrs. Chestley and their willingness to show affection for one another. The language and/or phraseology may make some readers slow down to decipher the meaning, but the story is worth the time. The thoughts and beliefs discussed will make readers think, something every good book should do for readers. I hope to read more books by Ruth Trippy and commend her for her well-written and interesting story.
My rating is 4 stars.
Note: I received a complimentary copy for an honest review of this book. The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility. Other reviews can be read at http://seekingwithallyurheart.blogspot.com/ . Also follow me on Twitter @lcjohnson1988, FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/lisa.johnson.75457… (mais)

This is a great historical drama. It is a book you can read and relax with.

Celia had experienced an upsetting crisis in her hometown. Her parents arranged for her to work for good friends in another town. Her employer also provided her room and board.

Celia loved books so she was more than content to work in the Chestley's book store. Her literary talent bloomed and expanded into the small community, where she also made some dear friends.

In an unfortunate situation, she met the town's recluse - Mr Lyons. He was a very good customer of the Chestley's but only came out at night before the store closed. She was fearful she had immediately made an enemy. He was a very mysterious person.

In Celia's escape from one disturbing situation, she discovers wherever one goes, there will always be more confusing and often painful situations. Celia must learn to trust her heart and feelings, choose wisely, and avoid temptation when it becomes very real. Will her heart or will her reason win out?

The rose was Celia's favorite flower. The title cover reflects this, plus, discloses parts of a verse from the plot. However, I would have preferred more than two hands portrayed, or others in the background.

It was a fairly slow-moving but well-written drama.

Key Points: Trust in self, others, and God; God's will vs. one's own will; make educated choices; community fellowship; expanding ones talents and abilities; forgiveness; friendship.

This review awards this book with a solid Four Stars rating.

This was sent to me by the publisher for an honest review/rating, of which I have given.… (mais)