Book Review: Ornamental Graces

Today I’m delighted to be participating in the virtual book tour for the new Christian romance Ornamental Graces by Carolyn Astfalk. As the Christmas season approaches, now’s the perfect time to treat yourself to this heartwarming novel, as well as to add it to your Christmas gift-giving list. Your friends and relatives will thank you!

My Review:
I loved this book! It’s a genuine, heartfelt inspirational romance. The title is very applicable and hints at a story both lovely and faith-filled.

The author has such a beautiful way with words and there’s a maturity to her writing that sets it apart—and above—from typical romances. I’m in awe of how she takes rather ordinary situations and weaves such intriguing, emotional scenes. There’s never a dull page! I was highly absorbed and invested in the story and characters the entire time. The dialogue rings true. There are serious conversations, but also delightfully fun banter.

The story is told from the viewpoints of Dan and Emily and has excellent character development. Burned by his past, Dan is in a rut and not looking for much out of life, especially not romance. Emily is tired of looking for romance and determines to live her life without pining for what may never be. When the two of them connect, a spark ignites, but the circumstances aren’t right, and may never be . . . at least not without the grace of God.

The passage of time makes for a well-developed, believable, non-rushed romance. With nothing contrived or forced, the story flows naturally. It’s rich, but never overdone. The novel incorporates how prayer, grace, and faith work in everyday life and are a necessary part of real love. Readers are treated to insightful perspectives on faith, forgiveness, life, and love. Ornamental Graces is a particularly good Christmas romance, but spans all seasons and is a wonderful read any time of year!

Ornamental Graces is available in paperback and as a Kindle ebook.

Can’t wait to dive in? Enjoy reading a free excerpt here!

About Carolyn Astfalk:
Carolyn Astfalk lives with her husband and four children in Hershey, Pennsylvania, where the wind carries either the scent of chocolate or cow manure. She is a CatholicMom.com contributor and author of the contemporary inspirational romances Stay With Me (Full Quiver Publishing) and Ornamental Graces.

Read more about Ornamental Graces on Goodreads and on Carolyn’s website.