A simply superb debut: My review of Sixty Acres and a Bride by Regina Jennings

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (February 1, 2012)

Book Synopsis as provided by the publisher:

She's Finally Found a Place to Call Home... How Far Will She Go to Save It?

With nothing to their names, young widow Rosa Garner and her mother-in-law return to their Texas family ranch. Only now the county is demanding back taxes and the women have just three months to pay.

Though facing eviction, Rosa falls in love with the countryside and the wonderful extended family who want only her best. They welcome her vivacious spirit and try to help her navigate puzzling American customs. She can't help but stand out, though, and her beauty captures attention. Where some offer help with dangerous strings attached, only one man seems honorable. But when Weston Garner, still grieving his own lost love, is unprepared to give his heart, Rosa must decide to what lengths she will go to save her future.

My Review

Regina Jennings, you've won me over!

Sixty Acres and a Bride is a skillfully written, imaginative read that explores a new take on the story of Ruth and Naomi, transported through time to the plains of Texas. I was hooked after the first page, and found myself laughing at Rosa's unconventional ways, as she caused the brows of other women to disappear well above their hairline in shock! Jennings' characterization is spot on, and Rosa fairly leaps from the page with vigor. Her relationship with Weston unfolds with well-paced drama that readers are sure to love, and I have no doubt that female readers the world over will be heaving a sigh of contentment upon turning the last page of the book. Most of all, the story celebrates God's desire for marriage to be about best friends and passionate love, built on a bed of trust and forgiveness and hope in new beginnings.

I highly recommend this debut novel and award it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

About the author:

Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She has worked at The Mustang News and First Baptist Church of Mustang, along with time at the Oklahoma National Stockyards and various livestock shows. She now lives outside Oklahoma City with her husband and four children.

Visit Regina's website at www.reginajennings.com.




Watch a video interview with the author: