A Love So True (Teaville Moral Society Book #2‪)‬

A Love So True, by Melissa Jagears, is the second book in the Teaville Moral Society series, but it can certainly be read as a stand-alone novel. In fact, I have not yet read the first book in the series, but I found A Love So True to be very engaging and easy to follow. I thoroughly enjoyed reading A Love So True, and I will definitely be adding Melissa Jagears’ other books to my reading pile. 

Christian historical fiction is one of my favorite genres of literature, and I found the plot of A Love So True to be utterly unique and intriguing. The characters were very well-developed and their struggles, insecurities, fears, passions, and beliefs were so believable, that I often had to remind myself that I was reading a work of fiction. As I read this book. I found that the characters had an authentic vulnerability that made them utterly relatable and unforgettable. I also found that I developed a deep emotional connection to this novel’s themes of grace, forgiveness, and compassion. This novel was tender, emotionally stirring, and ultimately uplifting. It is a novel that I will not soon forget, because its impact on my thoughts and on my heart is sure to be a lasting one. This novel was enjoyable, thought-provoking, and moving. I recommend it wholeheartedly.

*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

One author I've come to expect near-perfect scores of is Melissa Jagears. This book in particular is a heartfelt story of orphan care in a town determined to look down its nose on those children's origins, and of a determined heroine and a strong hero. The characters are easy to like and the spiritual parts are both thought-provoking and organic to the story. Looking forward to book three.

When the author asked if I would be willing to do a review of her next book, I wondered if she could actually match the success of the first book. I'm happy to declare a definitive YES! This book is every bit as good as book 1.

The first detail that's clearly presented is a Christian message. It is delivered without compromise or apology. The characters a flawed, yet fully developed and show growth of character. Even the secondary characters are fully developed such that any one of them could become the focus for upcoming books. And, the plot flows with all the proper steps from development, climax, and conclusion.

There are lots of themes in the book, several are a continuation from book 1, but the themes that stood out to me are: religion vs true Christianity, love vs obligation, taking responsibility and facing the consequences of your actions, and forgiveness - both that from God, others, and self.

The romance is exceptionally well done. Evelyn Wisely, the heroine, has a reputation for pushing men away and ignoring their interest in her. However, she meets her match in David Kingsman who sees her first as a challenge and later as someone he wants to pursue. However, Evelyn has a deep dark secret. What will happen if she confesses?

I don't want to reveal anything that will give too much of the storyline away. Let it suffice that this is a fantastic book and will help anyone who claims to be a Christian evaluate their faith. It does deal with some difficult topics such as those dealt with in book 1, but all from a Christian worldview.

My rating - 5 stars