Regina Jennings’ freshman novel, “Sixty Acres and a Bride”, is a remarkable retelling of the story of Naomi, Ruth and Boaz. And I believe that familiarity with the Scriptures heightens the anticipation as the story develops. This retelling, which transports the reader to late 1800s Texas, also enhances the Scripture in the sense of making the situations encountered by these women more understandable to our modern-day minds.
Rosa and Louise Garner have buried their husbands in Mexico. Actually, an earthquake buried their men, but these women have little recourse but to return to Louise’s property and family in Texas. But when the women arrive, they learn that significant back taxes are owed and they must come up with the money in three months or forfeit the family land. Weston Garner is nursing a guilty conscience over the death of his wife five years earlier. He has no intention to remarry, but is just beginning to live again. Still, he doesn’t want the attention of Molly who throws herself at him every chance she gets. And he thinks his crusty heart can remain closed until he begins to know Rosa and her different Mexican ways begin to chip away to the soft heart inside.
The story is beautifully articulated and colored by a rich landscape and well fleshed out characters. I stayed up late into the night reading this book and had to fight against turning the pages too quickly because I really wanted to take my time and savor the charming moments of the novel. And there were many charming moments. I will be keeping my eyes opened for more projects by Regina Jennings.
Rosa and Louise Garner have buried their husbands in Mexico. Actually, an earthquake buried their men, but these women have little recourse but to return to Louise’s property and family in Texas. But when the women arrive, they learn that significant back taxes are owed and they must come up with the money in three months or forfeit the family land. Weston Garner is nursing a guilty conscience over the death of his wife five years earlier. He has no intention to remarry, but is just beginning to live again. Still, he doesn’t want the attention of Molly who throws herself at him every chance she gets. And he thinks his crusty heart can remain closed until he begins to know Rosa and her different Mexican ways begin to chip away to the soft heart inside.
The story is beautifully articulated and colored by a rich landscape and well fleshed out characters. I stayed up late into the night reading this book and had to fight against turning the pages too quickly because I really wanted to take my time and savor the charming moments of the novel. And there were many charming moments. I will be keeping my eyes opened for more projects by Regina Jennings.
Comments
I like bible study, I certainly miss it...
Jesse